Page 73 of Bound to a Warrior
“She’s right about that,” Mara said. “Harry told me it might take some time to get even one metal cuff off, since the king’s cuffs are forged together, making it impossible to break free without much hard work.”
“We’re wasting time discussing this,” Mercy said.
“You need rest,” Mara reminded her firmly.
“I need to help save another, as I was saved,” Mercy said adamantly.
“I told you she was like you, Mother,” Duncan said with pride.
Mercy smiled at Mara. “I’ll make certain to bring your three sons back without a scratch.”
Mara laughed. “Then be off with you and be safe.”
Duncan didn’t like placing Mercy in danger again, but he also didn’t like not being there to help his brother. And he was proud of the way she immediately stood to join him, even though rest had been advised. She didn’t even question why he needed to go when one would assume that surely he’d have warriors to look after the matter. Or perhaps she understood that you never leave your brother to fend for himself. Or could it be as simple as her standing by his side? After all they had grown accustomed to it.
Trey mumbled beneath his breath as they descended the circular stone stairwell.
“Speak your mind,” Duncan said.
“I don’t see what help you’ll be chained to her,” Trey said.
“I’ll prove my worth,” Mercy said.
“It isn’t that,” Trey said and hurried ahead of them.
Duncan held back for a moment. “In time you’ll get to know Trey and understand.”
“I have patience,” Mercy assured him.
“I know and I appreciate it.” He would have kissed her then but time was of the essence and so he once again hurried his steps. “Follow my lead and do as I direct.”
Mercy nodded.
“Are you certain you feel well enough?”
“I actually feel much better than I was feeling. My arm pains me more than my head.”
Duncan winced. “My fault. I’m sorry.”
“You prevented my fall and if you hadn’t, I could have suffered far worse injuries,” she assured him. “And do not let being fettered to me prevent you from doing for your brothers.”
“I know you can hold your own.”
“Good, then let’s get this done. I’m famished.”
Duncan laughed and took her hand, the silent signal that once again they would work together as one.
Mercy sat in front of Duncan on his stallion. It was a large black horse and she could feel his power in his muscled limbs and proud prance, and the strength it took to command him. But command him Duncan did and the horse obeyed.
“Warriors have been sent along the border, ready and waiting for orders,” Trey said atop his mare that appeared more malleable than Duncan’s stallion.”
“How far out is Reeve?” Duncan asked.
“Not far from the king’s men,” Trey said.
“We must be careful. It would be unwise to allow this to erupt into a battle,” Duncan said. “No doubt Reeve has seen signs and is aware of the soldiers’ presence.”
Trey nodded. “No doubt, he has always been good in sensing enemy presence.”
