Page 75 of The Red Wolf’s Prize

“We are wondering how you have fared so far from Normandy,wise one,” the king mused aloud. “We still remember how you nearly swooned asyou left the ship.”

“I was fully recovered after a week on firm ground, MyLord,” insisted Maugris. “Talisand is now my home and happily so. I do notexpect to be at sea again.”

The king seemed pleased with that news, as was Serena. Shewould not like to see the old Norman, of whom she had become so fond, return toNormandy.

William leaned in to speak to Renaud. “Cospatric, you willrecall, gave us much gold to secure the Earldom of Northumbria. It seems he hasnow joined Morcar and Edwin behind the banner of Edgar Ætheling in rebellionagainst us, dividing our bishops as well.”

“I thought Archbishop Ealdred supported you, Sire,” saidRenaud, seemingly puzzled.

“He does, which is to his credit. But he was unsuccessful inhis attempt to discourage the discontent in the north,” said the king. “TheBishop of Durham, we are not happy to see, supports the rebels against us.”

“They have not yet seen your army, Sire,” said Renaud with awry grin.

Serena could hardly manage to stay in her seat as shethought about the Norman army marching on York.

“Nor our castles,” replied the king. “We erected some as werode north from London. Warwick was the first. But there are more. Talisand’scastle will be one of many. And, with God’s help, I will see one in York beforethe month’s end.”

The talk of war in Northumbria made Serena’s restlessstomach churn. She wondered if Steinar and the men of York were prepared forthe Norman horde that would soon descend upon them.

Toward the end of the meal of roast pork, goose and freshfish, conversation died as Rhodri stepped in front of the dais to entertainthem with his harp. Surprisingly, the Norman king seemed to enjoy the Welshmusic.

At Renaud’s insistence, Serena reluctantly agreed to singfor the king.

“The countess sings?” William asked as she slowly walkedtoward Rhodri, who sat in front of the central hearth. Candles and torchlightfilled the new hall casting a warm glow on all the faces that now turned towardthe two who would sing for the king. While the benches were filled mostly withNormans, there were English among the king’s men. Some of the old thegn’s menhad also been invited to the meal.

“Aye, she does,” said Renaud, “as beautifully as a lark.”

“A lady of many talents,” said William. “What other pursuitsdoes your fair wife enjoy, pray tell us?”

“She is gifted with a bow,” Renaud said with a look ofamusement. “As fast and true a shot as my best archers.” At his words, Serenasaw a smile spread across Maugris’s face where he sat at the high table.

“A she-wolf, then,” remarked the king, rubbing his chin withhis fingers. And then with a grin, he slapped the wooden table. “A fitting matefor my wolf!” The king roared with laughter, apparently his own words humorous.

As Serena took her seat next to Rhodri, she glanced at herhusband, wondering at his reaction. Then, with all eyes upon her, she began tosing the Welsh songs she loved.

* * *

A few days later, William ordered his men to make ready toleave. Renaud was not unhappy. Notwithstanding Serena’s calm demeanor duringthe days of the king’s visit, of which he was quite proud, he sensed ripples ofunease flowing through her. That and her labors explained her fatigue.

She had worked hard to act the countess before the king, andwas so exhausted in the evening, when he was finally able to take his leave ofthe king, he found her in their bed fast asleep. But knowing he was riding tobattle, last night he’d awakened her to make love. Warm and willing, she hadwelcomed him into her arms. Their coming together had been brief, butpassionate, and afterward, she had curled against him like a contented kitten.

“I am glad your king leaves, my lord,” she said as shewatched the king’s men taking down the tents that lay outside the palisade.They stood together at the top of the motte watching the activity. “It willtake Talisand some time to recover from so heavy a burden. Angus has had a hardtime keeping up with the demands for his smith services. And Maggie and Cassieare so tired, they nearly fall asleep while pounding dough for the many loavesof bread that must be baked each morning.”

“It is an honor to entertain the king, Serena. Many wouldseek the privilege shown us.”

“Well, I am not one of them. I welcome only your companyonce they are gone.”

“Serena,” he spoke with a serious tone, dreading what wascoming, “William expects me and my men to accompany him to York.”

“What?” She looked aghast. “You would go to York?”

“Yea, I must. But hopefully the rebellion there will soon beover.”

His wife looked crestfallen.

“What is it, Serena? You know I cannot refuse the king.”

“Aye, I know. But York….” Her voice trailed off and he sawpain in her beautiful eyes.