A Duty Fulfilled

Chapter 20

Avelina didn't eat much. She couldn't, not when Lord Richard's gaze bored into hers. She wasn't watching him, but she could feel it. Lady Marie asked a question or two, and Avelina answered them politely. She was more likely to be granted her request to see James in the dungeon if she kept her temper in check.

''Duke Richard,'' a guard burst through the door, startling Avelina and causing her to spill several drops of her drink.

''The rebels, your Grace, they have attacked the fleet guarding the harbor.''

Avelina's eyes widened and her heart spead up in anticipation. Peter and Adam must have made it back! They were likely leading the attack!

Richard stood from his place at the head of the table, his face turning red.

He cursed loudly and banged his fist on the table.

''Send soldiers immediately, we will squander them by morning.'' Richard's glare was dark and dangerous. And Avelina wanted to hide under the table.

''Your grace, the rumors are Peter Chamberlain is leading rebellion.'' The guard shifted uncomfortably, as if knowing this news would enfuriate Lord Richard.

Silence stretched over them, and Avelina kept her gaze fixed straight ahead at a painting on the wall, but in her lap, her hands shook with excitement. Peter was alive!

''Peter Chamberlain is dead.'' Lord Richard wheezed.

''The guards at the harbor gave a description that matches him perfectly.''

Avelina felt Jonathon and Lord Richard's eyes on her. But she also felt increasingly bold. She moved her gaze to Lord Richard and stared him directly in his eyes. His kingdom of sand was about to be washed away.

''I suppose he didn't fall as hard as he once thought.'' Avelina said simply.

''Hang the rebel prisoner at once,'' Lord Richard spat, still looking at Avelina. ''And call for a preist, the ceremony is to be held within the hour.'' He started for the door.

''You cannot stop the inevitable,'' Avelina stood as well. ''Duke Peter isn't far and your downfall is nigh. It would be wise to sail away whilst you can.''

''I said call for the preist!'' The angry lord screamed at the guard who turned and ran for the doors.

Jonathon came around the table and gripped Avelina's arm painfully dragging her to the doors as well. Avelina wrenched her arm free.

''I would like to see the prisoner,'' Avelina declared. Lifting her chin high.

Jonathon smirked, as if amused she would think to ask such a thing.

''Let her see the prisoner, Jonathon,'' Lady Marie spoke for the first time in a sentence that wasn't a question.

Jonathon turned surprised eyes onto his mother. He too astonished that his quiet, submissive mother had spoken.

''The ceremony will be held afterwards, but let her see him.'' Lady Marie stared at her son, seemingly pleading.

Jonathon softened visibly at his mother's words.

Avelina wanted to gape with an open mouth, but she was too grateful to Lady Marie and could only follow Jonathon.

.....................

The dungeon was dark and the air dewy. Avelina held her skirts in her fists and wanted to cover her mouth and nose at the smell of human stench and waste. Jonathon carried a torch, illuminating dirt walls.