"Brotherhood Of The Sword - 01 - Master Of Desire" - читать интересную книгу автора (MacGregor Kinley)

The king referred to the fact that Hugh had once promised to support Henry's claim to the throne, only to turn around two months later and join King Stephen's forces.



Hugh was not one to be trusted. Ever.



"If Your Majesty so doubts my loyalty, then why do I still have my lands?" Hugh asked.



Henry's nostrils flared. "You have your father to thank for that, and rather than ask our motives, you should be grateful for our continued mercy and should act with appropriate gratitude. Draven shall hold her for one year. If in that time you have shown yourself honorable, she shall be returned to you."



Hugh's face turned to granite. "You act as if I am the one who instigated this matter," he muttered. "Why am I to be punished while he—"



"Silence!" Henry roared. "Another insolent word from you and I shall see you stripped of all you hold dearest."



Hugh wisely held his tongue, but his eyes glowed with pure malice.



Henry motioned for his scribe to write down his decree. "Should you attack Draven or any of his people or lands in the coming year, your daughter will be his to do with as he pleases."



Hugh slid his gaze to Draven. "And if he should harm or shame her, sire?"



Henry's face hardened. "As the right hand of the crown, Draven knows firsthand what we do to traitors. We have trusted our life to Draven, and we will accept his pledge on the bones of St. Peter that he will not harm her. To allay your fears, Hugh, I shall send one of my personal physicians to inspect your daughter now and again in one year to ensure she is returned to you in the same condition in which she leaves your protection."



Then to Draven Henry said, "Lady Emily will be considered our ward. Any harm done her will be done to us. We trust you will guard her accordingly?"



"Aye, Your Majesty. I shall guard her with my life."