Propelled to wakefulness by a flare of pain in my side, I opened my eyes to an unfamiliar face leering down at me. I blinked up at him in the early dawn light. “Move.” His foot swung to kick me again, but I scrambled away, clutching bedding to my chest as I backed against the wall. “Who are you?” I demanded with all the dignity I could summon wearing a blood-stained smock. “Your keeper. Now dress, Lord Ravenridge awaits.” “Where is Ealdine?” “Not to be found.” “I must speak with Sir Hirion.” “Gone, disappeared this morn. He will be found and brought forward. He will pay for his treachery, be sure.” I peered up at the man. “Treachery?” “You shall find out soon enough. Now dress or I shall dress you.” The lecherous look in his glance made me long for a scalding bath. “Nay. I am capable.” I glanced about before spotting my kirtle and dress from the previous day. Rising to fetch them, I encountered my guard’s interested gaze. “Turn your back.” He scoffed and complied.
