Part 49 (1/2)
He nudged Nastrus into a trot and waved to the women. They were cantering by the time they reached the road. Even though his thoughts were on the Hold, he noticed that the trees were beginning to turn and that they weren't as colorful as those up north. The lichened walls of the Hold came into view and he saw that the gates were open. No one challenged them as they rode in. but both he and Nastrus were greeted at the stables as old friends. Jarrod's new status did not seem to affect the ostlers and the grooms.
He took his saddlebags and slung them over his shoulder, bade Nastrus good-bye and made his way to the house. As he approached the steps, he was greeted by a middle-aged man he did not know. The man, ob- viously a gentleman by his dress and his bearing, was accompanied by a young squire.
”May the best of the day be before you, my lord.”
The man bowed deeply. ”I am Kerris of Aylwyth, Sen- eschal of Gwyndryth.”
He must have had a lookout posted to get here this fast, Jarrod thought. ”And may your night be tran- quil,” he returned politely. He unslung his saddlebags and the squire quickly retrieved them. ”May I ask what happened to Sir Ombras?”
”Lord Obray retired to his estate two months ago,”
the Seneschal replied. ”His eyesight's failing and his hearing is none too good.”
”I am sorry to hear that. He was a good man and he served the family well. I must make a point of riding over to pay my respects while I am here.”
''I am sure that it will be much appreciated, Sir Jar- rod,” Aylwyth replied smoothly. ”In the meantime, your quarters have been made ready against your coming.”
”I am obliged to you.” He moved forward. ”How is the Lady, er, how is my wife?”
THE UNICORN PEACE t 271
Sir Kerris looked at Jarrod speculatively and then seemed to come to a decision. ”Quite impossible, my lord,” he said straight-faced.
Jarrod's eyes opened wide and then he threw back his head and laughed. ”By the G.o.ds, you are a gambling man, sir. However, the Lady Marianna that I know can express herself, ah, somewhat forcefully.”
Sir Kerris smiled. ”She resents being confined,” he said companionably, ”and it must indeed be a great trial for someone as active as my lady. Wisewoman Jaff- ney thought it best because the Lady Marianna is”-he glanced up at Jarrod-”not overly young to be with child.” The lips twitched upward slightly. ”The Lady Marianna did not take kindly to the suggestion.”
”I can imagine,” Jarrod said sympathetically. ”In fact I'm surprised that she agreed to it.”
”Well we have Mrs. Merieth to thank for that. She's the only one who can give my lady orders.”
”Merry? I'm surprised that she's still alive.”
”She's alive all right and sprightly with it,” Aylwyn said as they climbed the steps. ”Her husband died a good ten years ago. She's been at a loose end since Master Joscelyn went off into your care. She is really looking forward to this baby and she is not about to let Lady Marianna take any unnecessary chances.” He stood aside to let Jarrod go through the door first.
”I forget my manners, my lord,” he said. ”You must be tired and hungry after your journey.” He snapped his fingers.
”Hungry more than anything else,” Jarrod admitted.
He was, in fact, ravenous.
The squire with the saddlebags appeared.
”Take those up to my lord's suite and put water on for a bath.” The Seneschal turned to Jarrod and ges- tured to the staircase. ”Permit me to escort you to your quarters,” he said formally. ”I trust that they will be to
272 your liking. If there is anything lacking, or anything that you want changed, you have but to tell me.”
”I'm sure it will be perfectly satisfactory,” Jarrod said soothingly letting the man lead the way.
”That I think I can promise,” Sir Kerris replied, ”but this is, after all, your home and your rooms should suit you to a T.”
My home, Jarrod thought as he mounted the stairs.
I suppose he's right. No, this will always be Marianna's home. The Outpost is mine.