King Shrewd considered. “What is the word from South Cove? Have they sent out warriors and ships?”
“Your Majesty, there is no word from there as yet.” This was not a lie.
“What goes on here?” The shouting began before he even reached the bedchamber. It was Regal, puffy with drink and fury. “Wallace!” He pointed an accusing finger at me. “Get him out of here. Get help to do it if you need it. You needn’t be gentle! “
Wallace had not far to look. Two of Regal’s brawny inland guardsmen had followed him up from the feasting. I was lifted off my feet; Regal had chosen burly men for this duty. I looked about for the Fool, for any ally, but the Fool had vanished. I caught a glimpse of a pale hand vanishing under the bed and resolutely looked away. I did not blame him. There was nothing he could do for me by staying except be thrown out with me.
“My father, has he disturbed your rest with his wild tales? And you so ill?” Regal bent solicitously over the bed.
They had me almost to the door when the King spoke. His voice was not loud, but command was in it. “Stand where you are,” King Shrewd ordered the guards. He still was prone in his bed, but he turned his eyes to Regal. “Neatbay is besieged,” King Shrewd said firmly. “We must send aid.”
Regal shook his head sadly. “It is just another of the Bastard’s ploys, to upset you and steal rest from you. There has been no call for help, no message of any kind.”
One of the guards was very professional in his grip. The other seemed intent on dislocating my shoulder even if I refused to struggle against him. I carefully memorized his face while trying not to show the pain.