FIFTEEN
The Norland Court
Fall 964 MC
Gerald knocked on the door as the two guards watched in silent witness.
"Come," Anna replied.
He pushed open the door, revealing the guest chambers beyond. Anna was seated before a large mirror while Sophie combed through her hair. The trip up the ridge had played havoc with her blonde locks, and it was taking all her maid's efforts just to clear the tangled strands.
"Are you all settled in?" he asked.
She turned her head to look at him. "You look nice," she said, "I see you found that tunic I left for you."
"Well," he replied, "I can't very well go and meet the king in my battered old chainmail, can I?"
"She'll be with you in a moment," said Sophie, "I just have to remove this last knot."
She pulled on the brush, eliciting a cry from the que
