Cedric ran all the way back to the hall, only stopping to catch his breath when he felt he could no longer continue without passing out. He could not help but notice the curious looks from the farmers he passed along the way, some of whom had never seen the Groundkeeper in such a panic before.
When he arrived at the hall, Cedric could tell almost immediately that something was awry. The servant who opened the door to him had a very sombre look for such a young man, and as he was led into the study to await the Viscount, Cedric was sure that he could hear crying echoing through the parlour.
Cedric warmed himself by the fire while he waited for his master to appear. Although still somewhat flushed from his exertion, there was still a chill in his bones from the early-morning air as well as
