"No," he whispered. His worst nightmare wasn't the monsters formed from magic battles or summoned by priests or dark practicers. It was losing a loved one to the arrogant, simple-minded, and greedy Companions.
Winter seemed to come to, her hands immersed in the warm feathers of her Companion. Turning slightly, she looked back at those now staring open mouthed at her. Bradford had always respected the Heralds and their companions when they visited. Their words were law as they represented the justice system and the king in their circuits. He had always kept their waystation stocked and maintained. He had always accepted whatever justice or news told him by them. So why did he now have to give up his daughter? Why such a steep price?
Winter's voice carried strongly, "Father, this is Companion Susan Silver." He waited. She said nothing more. Seemed to care for nothing else but that everyone know Susan was here. Stories of how fiercely Companions protected their own briefly came to mind. At least Winter would be safe. He had no choice.
Seeing the cook nearby, he tried to keep his voice from wavering, "Prepare a traveling pack of food to tie onto the gryphon's saddle." Turning towards another he added more quietly, "pack a travel pack of necessities for her. I don't think she will leave the gryphon's side." More orders about getting back to work were issued for the remaining gawkers. Watching the crowd scatter and disperse brought no pleasure.
A mercenary walked up to him, "I can tell you don't like it. A cousin of mine was Chosen once too. Until they get acquainted and all, she is going to have no desire for anyone but the Companion. And the Companion will not stay. As soon as possible, she will fly with her Chosen and get as much distance as possible into the journey to the capital." He turned and left. Bradford didn't seem to notice. He could only continue to stare. How, how did he lose his girl like this? It was as if she was already dead.
No comments:
Post a Comment