There Your Heart Will Be Also by Felicia Rogers Page B

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    Cedric straightened up . “What was that?”
    â€œ T he alarm,” said Sarra , concern lacing her tone .
    Before Sarra finished her statement, she was wiggl ing free from Cedric’s embrace, grasp ing her skirts, and flying down the hallway. A group of breathless knights rushed into the keep’s entrance as s he skidded to a halt in the main hall.
    Sir Henry raised a hand to silence the growing crowd. He stood in wait for Sarra . When she no longer moved, he asked , “Gavin, what is your report? ”
    Gavin’s arm was in a sling, but otherwise he was in the full gear of a Greenbriar knight. In a breathless voice and with as much composure as possible , he responded, “There is around twenty to thirty men outside the walls, my lady . They seem to be gathering our sheep and herding them away.”
    Although she’d not spoken her concern out loud, Sarra had wondered if the celebration would distract the knights from their regular patrols. The raiders must have discovered the festivities and decided to exploit it to their advantage.
    Chancing a look under veiled eyes at Cedric, Sarra couldn’t help but wonder if the raiding party was somehow related to his presence? Surely this man she was coming to feel for more and more couldn’t be plotting to take her keep?
    Sarra shook her head, dislodging the ridiculous notion.
    Though Sir Henry was in charge of the knights, he always sought Sarra’s guidance before making a decision on how to act. But how could he consult her now? Cedric stood nearby. To speak with her with any level of importance would reveal her identity.
    Sarra’s twisted her hands within the folds of her gown. Sir Henry was trapped. If he approach ed her now it would mean certain exposure.
    Not only was exposure a concern but also the raiders had to be considered . There would be consequences either way. Sarra realized if the raid was n’t stopped some of her own people might die . B ut on the other hand , if the raid continue d many more would perish from lack of food , among other things .
    A smile plastered on her face , Sarra pretended everything was fine. If questioned s he w ould say her need for information was purely to be able to share with the mistress. Aye, that was it!
    Those thoughts clear in her mind, Sarra pulled Sir Henry aside to confer with him in private . “Sir Henry, what are your leanings?”
    â€œMy lady, you know we must fight. If we don’t then we shall continue to be raided.”
    â€œAye, I agree. Lead them as you see fit. Make sure to say nothing about my involvement in your decision. ”
    â€œBut my lady, surely this has gone on long enough. We are talking about the safety of your people.”
    â€œI leave you in complete control.”
    Sir Henry nodded. His look of dissatisfaction wasn’t lost on Sarra as she stepped aside and pretended to fret like a maid as the orders were given .
    â€œMen, assemble in front of the keep. We have a duty to protect our families and to stop the raiders.”
    The crowd of young soldiers encouraged one another before heading out to fight. While Sarra watched the camaraderie of the young and inexperienced, Cedric appeared at her elbow. He had disappeared sometime during the exchange, chang ing his kilt and tunic and retriev ing his sword.
    â€œSarra, I am going to assist them.”
    â€œBut—“
    â€œNay. I must. I must show fealty to y er mistress.”
    Sarra wanted to protest . Was it safe for Cedric to accompany the men? Of course the large Scot could take care of himself, but what if this raid was of his doing? What if the entire plot had been instigated by him? But what could be sa id ? I’m the mistress . S tay put and my men will take care of the situation?
    Nay, that would never work. To reveal her identity now would only complicate matters more. Realizing her options were limited, Sarra nod ded her head . The only way was to put trust in God