Walter had come down very early that morning. He had ordered for Head guard Holden as he settled for breakfast. Helen had not come down yet as she had not slept too well the previous night; tossing and turning and muttering in her sleep. One second to truly listen, and he knew it must be a nightmare about him going off to war.
Guard Holden arrived and made a reluctant salute, causing Walter to smile.
"Do you know why I've called you?" Walter asked.
"No, my lord." Guard Holden answered.
"Lady Steinhouse, she would have had you dismissed but I refused. Do you know why?" Walter asked. The guard secretly rolled his eyes. In his mind, Walter was trying to buy him to his side.
"You are loyal to her, so I have every reason to keep you. I'm going away for a while and I need someone who is as
