In Search of Adventure: A Tale of Courage and Devotion

By Alicia A. Willis

Enter In Search of Adventure, the thrilling second installment of The Comrades of Honor series. Packed with action at every bend, this tale takes up the story of Nathaniel de Lance, once the page of Sir Robert.

Now a young man and belted knight, Sir Nathaniel takes young Kenneth Dale for his squire, a boy left destitute by a stroke of ill fortune. Quickly learning to trust and care for each other, Sir Nathaniel and Kenneth become fast friends, little knowing how much they will need their mutual comradeship.

Taking advantage of his liberty as a knight, Sir Nathaniel leaves his boyhood home to visit old friends. The small journey quickly takes an unexpected turn, however, and climaxes into a perilous adventure. Old enemies revisit the scene, creating hazards that require all of Sir Nathaniels strength and valor to overcome. Trapped in a hostile country, the question arises: will he ever return?

Join Sir Nathaniel and Kenneth in their rousing adventure, and witness the perils that strengthen their courage. Their friendship is extraordinary, but will the rewards of their devotion be greater still?

A novel of adventure, comradeship, and suspense, as a valiant knight seeks to overcome his merciless foes and retain honor in a hostile land.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Jan 5, 2016
• ISBN: 9781512701234

Alicia A. Willis

Alicia A. Willis is a home-school graduate and avid historian. From an early age, she has had the desire to write family-friendly, accurate books about the past. She has authored two historical novels and anticipates the Lord leading her on to many more writing projects in the future. When not writing or doing endless historical research, she enjoys being a church pianist and teaching music. She and her family live in New Mexico.

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Copyright © 2015 Alicia A. Willis.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

WestBow Press

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

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ISBN: 978-1-5127-0122-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5127-0123-4 (e)

WestBow Press rev. date: 11/23/2015

Contents

Preface

Chapter One: The Capture of Sir Bruce

Chapter Two: Kenneth’s Loss

Chapter Three: Nathaniel’s Accolade

Chapter Four: A Narrow Escape

Chapter Five: Danger

Chapter Six: Captured!

Chapter Seven: Sentenced to Death

Chapter Eight: Seeking Aid

Chapter Nine: Assail of StoneWolf

Chapter Ten: Adela

Chapter Eleven: Departure and Dilemma

Chapter Twelve: Lost!

Chapter Thirteen: Hard-Pressed

Chapter Fourteen: Bitter Anguish

Chapter Fifteen: Miracle of the Dawn

Chapter Sixteen: Love United

Chapter Seventeen: Preparations

Chapter Eighteen: Winter’s Grip

Chapter Nineteen: Return to Birmingham

Chapter Twenty: Squire Valiant

Chapter Twenty-One: In Truth’s Cause

Chapter Twenty-Two: Sir Knight

Glossary

Dedicated in love to my future husband,

my own knight-in-shining-armor.

Special thanks to my family and friends for helping to make this novel possible. I couldn’t do it without

your love and support.

Above all, may praise be given to God my Father.

Ad maioram Dei gloriam, to the greater glory of God.

Preface

In Search of Adventure: A Tale of Devotion and Courage is the second book in The Comrades of Honor Series. Like all of the books in this trilogy, it is a tale of friendship, loyalty, honor, chivalry, and integrity. Yet, above all, it is a tale of overpowering bravery and fidelity, depicting the often little-known details of the strong bond between a knight and his squire.

Like Sir Robert Fitz Hasseltine, Sir Nathaniel de Lance is an example of honorable manhood. It is my intention to portray true chivalry through his story, showing what it was then and what it ought to be today. Though truly gallant knights like Sir Nathaniel were not as common as the media would have us believe, I believe that we acquired the term knights-in-shining-armor from the genuinely chivalrous men who existed—men such as Sir Nathaniel.

In history books and the media, squires seem to be a sadly overlooked aspect of the Middle Ages. Thus, I have endeavored to give you a fair glimpse into the relationship between a knight and his esquire. This includes the welcome topics of friendship and brotherly love, as well as the graver subject of mentorship.

Like his master, Squire Kenneth is also meant to be an example of honorable manhood. His development into a young man of strength and courage is one that was meant to inspire readers everywhere, particularly the young men of our nation and abroad. Courage is never commonplace, and it is my hope that Kenneth’s bravery will stir you towards a goal of similar strength and bravery.

The relationship between Sir Nathaniel and Adela was meant to be entirely realistic of the time period. I endeavored to make their correlation entirely historically accurate, yet perhaps a trifle more pure and honorable than the average medieval betrothal. May their purity shine forth and be an exemplar to all those who read their tale.

Like all of the books in The Comrades of Honor Series, every effort has been made to ensure historical accuracy. The views, customs, and ways of life expressed throughout the book are simply the modes of the time period, some of which cannot be considered the personal or religious beliefs of the author. Yet, it is my desire that my love of the Middle Ages shine through these pages and instills a similar fascination in you.

Happy reading! In the Cross of Christ!

In the King’s Name,

Alicia A. Willis

Chapter One: The Capture of Sir Bruce

It was a warm, pleasant day, the summer sun beaming brightly down upon the wide, well-traveled road leading to the stronghold of Birmingham.

Amidst the tall linden trees and foliage, delicate blossoms of every description stood in full bloom, their refreshing scent filling the warm air. The air hummed with small insects and the notes of warbling birds drifted on the slight breeze.

Mere words could not fully depict the fair beauty of the day, nor the vast pleasure it gave a Norman horseman traversing the road.

The rider was young, about fourteen years of age. He gazed about him with glowing eyes and a half-smile upon his lips, of no mind to quicken the leisure pace of his steed.

His master rode beside him, a fine-looking knight whose pleasant face and smile revealed his own pleasure in the beauty around him.

’Tis a fine morning, be it not, my lad? was the knight’s remark, spoken at long-last. ’Tis perfect, balmy weather for our journey.

That it is, milord, though I shall be very content to see our travels come to an end. Journeying from Belfast to Birmingham may not be a very arduous expedition, yet, I am weary of constant riding and the discomfort of inns.

A half-amused smile played about the lips of the young knight. "Thou wilt sleep in comfort tonight at any rate, Kenneth. I intend to halt at the castle of Lord Fitz Hasseltine, and, if events prove favorable, we may even reside thither for a fortnight¹ or so."

Of the events proving favorable, I have no doubts, the lad returned, with a ringing laugh. All my life, I have heard naught but tales of Sir Robert Fitz Hasseltine from thee. Yea, and I know that thou wouldst no more evade an opportunity to abide in his castle than thou wouldst steal.

The knight’s expression remained perfectly good-natured. Thou know me all too well, Kenneth. Yet, when thou hast met Sir Robert, methinks thou wilt understand why I so desire to abide within his stronghold. Though thou know this tale well, I was in the castle when he was dubbed a knight, and, truly, a more pleasant, valiant young man was not to be found. Even now, every circulating report doth lay claim that there cannot be a more courageous, benevolent knight in the realm of England.

I hardly think so, Kenneth returned with spirit, his face half-flushing. No knight on earth couldst be braver or kinder than thee, Sir Bruce. Yea, and not every squire can boast of having a master that is matchless in war and jousting as I can.

Then, as Sir Bruce seemed ready to disagree, Kenneth hastened passionately on. Thou cannot refute me, Sir Bruce. Wilt thou contest the truth? ’Twas but one month ago thou brought that cowardly knight who insulted thee to his knees in fair combat—aye, and justly so. Thou cannot refute thine own courage, nor will I stand by and see thee do it.

Sir Bruce smiled, much amused by his squire’s indignant flush and heated tone. Thou art very loyal, Kenneth, although I will not claim to agree with thee. ’Tis true I conquered Sir Rudolph in fair battle, but that scarcely places me on equal terms with Sir Robert Fitz Hasseltine. Yea, and while I cannot judge thy loyalty, I fear thou art sadly biased in this matter.

The color deepened in Kenneth’s face. And wilt thou claim that he be any more chivalrous than thou? Thou didst not put thy craven foe to the sword, as any other man wouldst have done, but spared his unworthy life. In my mind, thou hast proven thyself the most chivalrous knight in England—though, verily ’tis only thy squire that sayeth it. My opinion counts for very little, I know; yet I have the poor satisfaction of saying and believing that no man on earth is equal to my master.

Sir Bruce turned affectionate eyes on the flushed countenance of the lad. Thou art a good lad, Kenneth—to say naught of a flattering one. Indeed, thou err when thou sayest thy opinion meaneth but little, for it meaneth a great deal to me. Though we may never agree upon this matter, I am grateful thou art so faithful to me and there is naught in this world that meaneth more to me than thy praise.

A warm light illuminated the eyes of the lad and, slowly, his color gave way to a quiet, gratified expression. A fleeting look between knight and squire bespoke the thoughts of their hearts, then, without having uttered another word, they turned their attention upon the road before them.

For a time, all was quiet and peaceful, the warble of birds filling the air and evoking old reminisces in the minds of the twain that heard them. Yet, the serenity was not to last.

Without warning, the tranquility was broken. Uttering a bloodcurdling shriek, a party of masked men leaped out upon the unsuspecting pair, closely followed by a helmed knight. Sir Bruce was brutally seized and divested of his weapons, but, by some providential hap, his squire managed to evade the clutches of the assassins.

However, though out of immediate reach of their foes, Kenneth did not at once leave the scene of their peril. Seeing his master in the hands of the enemy, he hesitated, unwilling to leave his knight.

Sir Bruce gestured urgently at him. Fly, Kenneth, and save thyself!

I cannot leave thee! Kenneth’s voice held a despairing cry, and, without a moment’s contemplation, he began to ride back to share his lord’s fate. Instantly, the stern, almost angry voice of his master halted him.

Kenneth Dale, obey me at once! Fly, and leave me to my fate.

The tone of his master held a ring that Kenneth never dared to disobey, yet, his heart was torn betwixt sharing his lord’s fate or fleeing the impending danger. Several of the men, seeing his hesitation, steadily approached him, preparing to seize him in their pitiless clutches.

Seeing their approach, the resolve to obey his master’s command surmounted Kenneth’s indecision. Abruptly, he leaned low over the neck of his steed and, with a quick blow from his crop, galloped from the place of his lord’s capture.

With a shout, several of the masked men set out to overtake him, but to no avail. Kenneth’s start was a good one and, within moments, the men who sought to overtake him turned back.

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Nathaniel, come hither, lad. Thou must arm me at once, for I have a notion to ride out to Woodburn Manor this morn.

A young man looked up from the parchment upon which he wrote with a half-rueful smile as Sir Robert entered the chamber. He was a strikingly handsome young man, slightly bewhiskered, and possessing very clear-cut features, slightly wavy light brown hair, and equally light brown eyes. Yea, and there was something very manly and valorous in his mien, though, verily, he held himself with quiet dignity.

My noble lord, wilt thou never remember that I am a man, not a child? Thou constantly address me as if I were a lad, often in the presence of others, and there have been many occasions wherein I have been mortified beyond portrayal.

I beg thy pardon, chuckled Sir Robert, much amused at his squire-of-honor’s evident exasperation. I will denounce myself guilty as charged. I know full-well that thou art a man, yet, forms of address cannot be readily changed. Alas, but how thou hast grown and altered in the passing years! Yea, and in but a fleeting month, thou wilt be a belted knight of Birmingham.

Which, no doubt, will be a great relief to thee, lord earl. To rid thyself of a retainer who hath endlessly troubled thee since he was a lad of seven is a great achievement.

Nonsense, Nathaniel! Thou hast never been a trouble to me in all of the years I have known thee. Verily, I wouldst have been glad had thou always remained a child—though that hath proven clearly impossible.

Sir Robert eyed the stalwart, tall figure of the young man as he spoke, giving him a meaningful look. Nathaniel laughed slightly.

"We all grow older, beausire²—thou as well as the rest. But there, I will not broach that subject, lest I cast a slur upon my good-breeding. Did I not hear thee command my services?"

Aye—pray arm me with all speed, else we will never arrive in good season at the manor.

With easy proficiency, Nathaniel brought forth the armor and began strapping its complex pieces upon his lord’s stalwart frame. Competence lent him its speed, and within record time, Sir Robert stood fully-armed and prepared for his ride.

Clasping his heavy cape around his shoulders, Sir Robert stepped to the door and called his page. Immediately, the lad answered the call, and, upon receiving his low bow, Sir Robert instructed him to summon his son Christopher into his presence.

Presently, the sound of hurrying feet was heard, and then the door was flung wide. A bright-faced, dark-haired lad of some seven or eight years bounded into the room, his happy face flushed with health and exercise. With another leap, he sprang to his father’s side, then, by force of polite habit, bowed low.

Thou sent for me, Papa?

Aye, little son. I am preparing to visit thy mother at the manor and desire to know if thou wouldst fain accompany me.

The child’s eyes sparkled with pleasure. Oh, yes, Papa! I wouldst dearly love to see mother, and ’tis a grand morn for a ride.

Sir Robert fondled his son’s hair affectionately, gazing with half-amusement into the hazel eyes upturned to his. Thou miss thy mother, dost thou not, Christopher?

Yea, sir; it hath seemed as if years have passed since she and my uncles departed for the manor. ’Tis difficult to believe she hath only been thither for a week’s time.

Dost thou not wish thyself with her?

Oh, nay, Papa! The face of the child grew slightly indignant. I am glad thou allowed me to stay with thee, instead of sending me away with mother and the babies. I am not a babe myself, after all.

Nathaniel and Sir Robert shared a half-concealed smile of amusement, and then the latter turned again to his son.

Go thou and prepare for thy ride, Christopher. I will meet thee in the courtyard presently.

The child scampered away to do as he was bidden, and, in a few moment’s time, he was ready and waiting for his father.

Presently, Sir Robert vacated the keep, closely followed by Nathaniel, several knights, and a dozen men-at-arms, who, when assembled, made up a fair-sized escort of some twenty or so men.

Having mounted his steed, Sir Robert swung his little son up into the saddle in front of him, and the party set off.

Nathaniel, as was his task, rode close at Sir Robert’s side, carrying his banner. Cold protocol had found its place betwixt him and his master no more as a man than it had as a child, and knight and squire conversed pleasantly all during the short ride to the manor.

One of the subjects of conversation was the departure of Lady Narcissa, who had gone to the manor with three of her children for a fortnight’s vacation. She had been accompanied by Sir Brandon, Sir Strephon, and their families, all of whom were grateful to escape the castle for a few weeks of country living.

Sir Robert, however, had found himself far too occupied to leave the castle for any great amount of time, and, thus, had remained behind with his eldest son.

The ride to the manor was a short one, and, ere long, the large fields and grey buildings of the estate rose into view. Woodburn Manor had been built several years ago, at the birth of Sir Robert’s second child; for, he had desired that some living place be procured for his family when the summer heat and slight discomforts of the castle became too burdensome.

As the party dismounted before the entrance of the manor-house, there was heard a pleasant word of greeting.

A thousand respects, my lord earl. Thy company hath been sorely missed since we said our farewells, and I can assure thee of the joyous welcome that will be thine when thou set foot within the door.

Sir Robert lifted his son from the saddle, and then turned to wring his brother-in-law’s hand.

’Tis joyous to see thee, Sir Brandon! Thou hast been decidedly missed, as hast all of my family. How hast thou fared?

Very well, my lord. Sir Strephon and I have ridden over the estate every morn, as thou hast ordained. I have the great pleasure of reporting that the serfs are behaving themselves well and the crops are growing at a wondrous rate. Indeed, Sir Strephon is presently riding over the fields and ensuring that all is in readiness for thy inspection, for he felt quite confident that thou wouldst make an appearance today.

He is as prudent as ever. Whither be the remainder of the family?

In thy wife’s solar, my lord. We were gathered thither, but I came down upon seeing thy arrival.

As he spoke, Sir Brandon led the way with a polite bow inside, immediately followed by Sir Robert, Nathaniel, and Christopher.

Within a few moments, the door of the solar was thrown open, and the four stepped inside. Cries of joy immediately issued from the children, two of whom sprang to their feet in glad ecstasy. They instantly checked themselves, however, and dropped a polite bow and curtsy before Sir Robert³.

He smilingly beckoned to them, and, with their childish exuberance unconstrained, they sprang forward to receive his greeting. Half-laughing, Sir Robert drew his son and daughter into a tender, fatherly embrace, uttering a kind word to each.

Countess Narcissa came forward, bearing her youngest child in her arms. Sir Robert straightened himself erect and bestowed a tender caress upon her, then bent to finger the soft, tiny fingers of the baby. At his side, the children clambered to be taken up, their separation from their father having erased all the protocol they had ever been taught.

There, that will do, Sir Robert said laughingly, attempting to simultaneously snatch a kiss from his wife’s lips and evade the small, grasping hands. Thou must cease from such a noise, or I shall be tempted to return straightway to Birmingham Castle.

This threat produced an instant lull in the tempest, during which the others came forward to greet their lord.

As Sir Brandon was the father of three little ones and Sir Strephon of two, Sir Robert was compelled to spend much time in his greetings, for each of the young lads and lasses wanted a kind word or embrace from their powerful uncle. Yet, at last, the chaos was calmed, and Sir Robert seated himself upon his wife’s couch.

Marry, Narcissa, this stout fellow hath grown a full inch since I last saw him, he said, affectionately taking his four year-old son Ethan onto his knee.

And have I not grown too, Papa? queried his daughter Regina, leaning against him and looking up with a countenance full of engaging inquiry.

Aye, lassie, thou grow the fairer with each passing day. Thou art a credit to thy mother, my Regina, for thou art the speaking likeness of her.

As Christopher is the speaking likeness of thee, my brother, remarked Lady Marcella, with a quiet smile. I have often considered that no other son looketh as much like his father than thine does.

Sir Robert laughed slightly. I am not entirely certain that that fact is the best outcome for all concerned, as some hither will assuredly avow.

Not so, Papa! Christopher returned, rather indignantly. Yet, he got no further, for, at that moment, a young knight with a pleasant, handsome countenance entered the room.

Sir Robert arose instantly to greet him, and they exchanged several brotherly pleasantries. Sir Strephon then suggested that Sir Robert ride out over the fields, and, accordingly, they, Sir Brandon, and Nathaniel left the room.

For the next hour, Sir Robert and the others rode out over the demesnes and fields, speaking to the overseers and a few of the serfs. This task easily fulfilled, the party returned to the manor-house.

Several hours were spent in pleasant conversation with the women and children, and then Sir Robert arose to his feet.

I fear that this visit must now come unto an end. There be several pressing tasks I must attend to ere night falls, and, as is the sad lot of an overlord, my time is not my own. Christopher, bid thy mother farewell, unless thou hast determined to remain behind.

Nay, my Papa, I shall return with thee, the little fellow answered with determination, and, upon kissing his mother, he stepped resolutely to his father’s side.

Several more adieus were uttered, and then Sir Robert, Nathaniel, and Christopher made their way from the manor-house. Mounting their steeds, they waited only for the reassembling of their escort, then set off.

Gaining Birmingham Castle, they entered and dismounted within the inner-ward. Sir Robert promptly dismissed his son and squire to their tasks, and then returned to his accounting chamber to compose a dispatch.

Scarcely an hour after his return to the castle, Sir Robert heard the sounds of shouting and loud protests from outside his accounting chamber. With a sigh, he laid down his pen and, with all the inner frustration of one disturbed from his work, stepped out into the lower hall.

The sight that met his eyes was not one common within Birmingham Castle, and he paused to survey the scene. A lad, attired as an esquire, was desperately fleeing from several men-at-arms and knights who, for an unknown reason, pursued him with angry shouts and threats.

Seeing his pursuers closing in around him, the boy looked frantically about for an avenue of escape. Recognizing the garb and masterful bearing of an earl, he threw himself at Sir Robert’s feet, uttering a low, despairing cry.

Have mercy, my lord earl!

Taking advantage of his kneeling position, the men-at-arms seized the lad and prepared to drag him from the hall, but a stern word from their lord halted them.

Let the boy alone! He hath begged for my mercy, and I will not permit thee to bear him hence until I know what he hath done.

Somewhat sullenly, the men released the lad, and one of their number spoke.

This lad is a scurrilous, no-good imp, my lord earl. He stole unlawfully into this castle by entering with some of our order’s knights. We bid him halt, but he willfully ignored our command and outran us. Yea, and hadst thou not bid us halt, we would have taught him a proper lesson for daring to illegally enter thy stronghold.

Sir Robert turned stern eyes upon the lad, resting one hand ominously upon his baldric. "What canst thou say to this charge, sirrah⁴? Illegal entry of any overlord’s stronghold is a weighty offense—one that I might well confine thee in my bailey⁵ for."

The boy lifted his dark eyes from the floor, respectfully meeting the stern gaze of Sir Robert. I well-know that my means of entering thy castle is of great offense, my lord earl, but I had no other choice. Thy men refused me entrance.

And, pray tell, what business of thine was so urgent that thou wert obliged to steal thy way in?

Kenneth opened his lips to make his reply, but a man-at-arms cut him unceremoniously short.

My honored lord, dost thou verily mean to give this rogue an opportunity in which to invent wild falsehoods? Consider the clear facts—surely they lead to an avowal of the truth! He hath stolen unlawfully into this stronghold—he hath begged for thy mercy. What doubt canst there be that he is a spy?

A murmur of hearty agreement circulated among the others, at the sound of which Kenneth paled visibly.

Nay, my lord earl, believe not such a thing against thy humble servant! I swear that I am no spy, but am an honest youth. I beseech thee to believe me!

Sir Robert stood considering the lad, his stern gaze losing none of its austerity. Considering all things, young sir, methinks that the accusation brought against thee is very plausible. Indeed, there seems to be additional evidence against thee. I see the garments of a squire upon thee, yet thou entered with no master. Wilt thou explain this sorry fact?

Aye, honored lord, if thou wilt but hear me out. My name is Kenneth Dale, and I am the esquire of the honorable knight, Sir Bruce of Belfast.

And whither is this Sir Bruce, pray? Or art thou a runaway?

Kenneth flushed hotly at the slightly sarcastic tone and was about to make an indignant denial of the charge when he was once again interrupted, upon this occasion by a knight.

Lord earl, how long wilt thou heed the prating of this false youth? Will all due respect, I pray thee to take but a single glance at him and see how he colors. Undoubtedly, he has yet a glimmer of conscience, else he would not flush so as he speaks. I, for one, believe his intentions within this castle are for either thievery or guile—two unpardonable acts against thy noble honor.

Aye, broke in another, with a sneer. "My lord earl, if I might venture an opinion, I forthrightly suggest that this unruly rogue be flogged⁶ until his scurrilous tongue is loosed and his true intentions are made known to us."

Kenneth, hearing the brutal suggestion and the approving murmur that followed its utterance, began to tremble in apprehension. Cold sweat stood out on his brow, and his dark eyes moved quickly from face to face, at last halting at Sir Robert’s stern, expressionless countenance.

Another appeal for mercy seemed his only avenue of escape, and he strode quickly forward, dropping to one knee at Sir Robert’s feet and taking his hand into his own.

My honored lord, I beg that thou wilt not deal thus with me! I am innocent—this I swear! Allow me the opportunity to speak, and thou wilt see that I can prove my integrity. Please, my lord, this I beg of thee.

Sir Robert did not speak for a moment, yet, when he did, his tones were quiet.

Stand upon thy feet, my lad. Then, as Kenneth apprehensively obeyed, Squire, if thou canst give me a well-grounded explanation for thy actions, I swear that thou shalt in no wise suffer harm. Yet, if not, I shall be compelled to do what is customary with felons. Dost thou understand?

Despite his threat, Sir Robert’s tones had quite lost their severity, and Kenneth met his quiet gaze, the natural color slowly returning to his face.

Yea, lord earl, he said, with soft respect.

Then speak, and tell me all that thou wilt.

Slowly and timidly, then with growing confidence, Kenneth told his tale. Gradually, as the moments passed, his voice grew stronger and his sturdy young frame no longer shook in fearful apprehension.

When he had finished, he glanced searchingly from face to face, then raised them in silent appeal to Sir Robert’s face.

There was a moment of silence, and then Sir Robert spoke.

Thy tale is indeed a reasonable one, my lad, and I am inclined to believe thee. Verily, as I have no certain reason to doubt you, I am determined to trust thy word until proof is rendered for me to think otherwise.

Then, striking a brisker mannerism, Deem thyself a guest in my stronghold, young Master Kenneth. Yea, and I shall straightway send out a body of men in search of thy master. Mayhap God will grant us His mercy, and he will be found and liberated.

Kenneth’s heart surged with sudden relief and grateful warmth. Stepping forward, he once again took Sir Robert’s hand in his own and, bowing low, pressed it to his lips.

I am duly thankful, my honored lord.

Sir Robert saw the gratitude in the dark eyes upturned to his eyes, and, somehow, the expression put to rest any suspicions that may have yet lurked within his breast. Bestowing a quiet nod and motion of acknowledgment upon the lad, he turned to the captain of his men-at-arms.

Morton, assemble thy troop and sally forth in search of this lad’s master. Make every attempt to find him, and, if thou dost perchance come upon his captors, do aught necessary towards ransoming or liberating him. If thou conquer his captors, make every possible attempt to bring them hither for my examination.

The captain bowed low, glancing sidelong at Kenneth. If it doth please thee, my lord, I desire a word with the boy. Then, receiving Sir Robert’s nod of assent, Young master, whilst I cannot say that I fully believe thy tale, I must yet ask—who dost thou deem the waylaying knight who assaulted thy master to be?

A dark expression stole slowly over Kenneth’s face. I cannot answer with full assurance who the knight was, captain, yet I have my well-grounded suspicions. There be but one man of my acquaintance who would wish any harm towards my lord. His name is Sir Rudolph, and ’twas but a few weeks since that he sought to slay my lord in a fight to the death. Sir Bruce grandly routed him and spared his scurrilous life, yet, Sir Rudolph was sorely humiliated and swore to avenge his mortification.

The captain uttered a low exclamation of surprise, his voice coupled with the murmurs of the others. The man is a renegade and traitor unto our own lord Sir Robert!

Yea, and a vicious brute, Sir Robert broke in dryly. I wouldst do much to have my hands upon that man, if he is indeed the same Sir Rudolph who once served me. Yet, there is no time to be wasted by idle chatter. Go thou, Morton, and do as I have commanded thee.

Morton bowed and retired, and Sir Robert turned fully to Kenneth. As for thee, young sir, I shall place thee under the care and supervision of my squire-of-honor. He will see that thy needs are met and thou art acquainted with the ways of Birmingham Castle until thy master is found. Follow me.

As he spoke, Sir Robert turned and personally led the way from the hall to the inner-ward, where his handsome esquire was engaged in his daily weaponry exercises.

Hearing his master’s call, Nathaniel turned and came at a brisk stride to where Sir Robert stood.

Aye, my lord?

Sir Robert motioned to Kenneth. Nathaniel, this is Kenneth Dale, esquire unto Sir Bruce of Belfast. He hath been separated from his master by scurrilous cutthroats, and, until his knight is found, I am placing him under thy charge.

Nathaniel turned cordially to the lad. ’Tis with pleasure I welcome thee to Birmingham Castle, young Kenneth.

Kenneth bent his head in respectful acknowledgment, and Sir Robert continued.

See to it that his needs are met and he is familiarized with the statutes of Birmingham Castle. Yea, and here a twinkle crept into his hazel eyes, and see that he conducteth no mischief hereabouts. I know-well the ways of lads left without their lord.

So saying, Sir Robert turned and strode briskly up the keep steps. Left alone, Nathaniel turned pleasantly to Kenneth.

I trow thou wouldst like to freshen thyself up after riding all day in the heat. Come, I am certain that my lord’s eldest son would not be disinclined towards allowing thee to wash and rest within his chamber.

He beckoned slightly as he spoke, and, accordingly, they walked together towards the keep.

The evening meal will be served ere long, my lad, Nathaniel continued, glancing into Kenneth’s weary countenance. Yet, if thou art hungered, I can procure thee aught to tide thee over.

Thou art most kind, but I am not overly a’hungered, Kenneth returned softly. I am only weary and would fain rest.

Nathaniel again glanced at him, noting his troubled expression. Sensing his absent thoughts, he said no more until they had gained the well-furnished chamber of Christopher and he had poured some water out into the wash-bowl.

Thou mayest freshen up hither, my lad, then, thou art at the full liberty to rest. I will come for thee when time for the evening meal. Be there aught more that I mayest do for thee?

Kenneth had been gazing absently about the chamber, but, at Nathaniel’s words, he looked up. Nay, Master de Lance, though I thank thee. Thou hast been very kind.

Address me as Nathaniel if thou wilt, Kenneth, Nathaniel returned, with easy pleasantry.

As thou wish, Master Nathaniel, Kenneth answered hesitantly, unwilling to offend the young man, yet having been trained to speak respectfully to those older than and in authority over himself.

Nathaniel gave him an amused smile, but did not correct his manner of address. Thus assured that the young man was not displeased, Kenneth continued.

I hope I shall not prove burdensome unto thee, Master Nathaniel. I know thou hast many weighty responsibilities upon thine shoulders, and I trust that, for whatever amount of time I remain hither, I may be of assistance to thee. Pray, wilt thou not allow me to aid thee with thy tasks?

Thou may assist me in whatever way thou dost desire, my lad, though I assure thee that I do not despise this duty my lord hath placed upon me. My master hath commanded me to satisfy thy needs, and I am content to obey.

Then, as Kenneth seemed ready to speak, Nathaniel gave a brisk motion, I am not fulfilling my duties by allowing thee to converse thus with me when thou shouldst be resting. Lay thee down, and we will have further words later.

With that and a pleasant farewell salute that strengthened Kenneth’s troubled heart, Nathaniel left the room.

Kenneth washed the dust from his hands and face, and then laid down upon the comfortable bed to rest. Sleep came quickly, and he forgot the aching fears that burdened his mind and heart in quiet slumber.

Chapter Two: Kenneth’s Loss

I straightly tell thee, my lord earl, we have searched everywhere and Sir Bruce is not to be found. We inquired of every person we came across if they had seen him, yet every person denied having any knowledge of such a man. Our search was entirely to no avail.

Sir Robert glanced down at Kenneth, who stood at his side. The young squire was very pale and his countenance was full of keen distress, yet, no word broke from his colorless lips. Turning, Sir Robert again addressed his captain.

Art thou completely certain, Morton? Didst thou search the side-roads and bypasses?

Aye, milord, according to thy word, we made every possible search.

And didst thou then cover portions of the forest?

Yea, verily, and we found naught more than an occasional animal or peasant boy, Morton answered wearily. "If this Sir Bruce ever existed, he is either dead or hath been spirited away to an unknown dungeon. Yet, what matters that to us? We knew not the knight, nor can we be certain that his existence is aught more than a wild tale from yon lad."

Sir Robert’s brow darkened in stern displeasure. Such cold indifference to the well-being of another is extremely displeasing to me, Morton. I am fully-convinced that Kenneth Dale is not a liar, and ’tis for thee to trust my judgment that Sir Bruce existed. Thou shalt refrain from making such careless speeches to me in the future, or my men-at-arms may-well come to possess a new captain. Do I make myself perfectly clear?

The captain averted his gaze with a low: Aye, my lord.

Sir Robert signaled that the interview was at an end, and then turned his attention upon Kenneth. The lad kept his gaze fixed immovably upon the ground, biting his trembling lips almost through in the vain attempt to control his feelings.

Sir Robert gazed with new compassion upon him, well-understanding his grief.

Reviews for In Search of Adventure

[medievalgirl-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Though the title may sound a little on the cheesy side to some, this book is anything but. Those looking for a good, old-fashioned adventure/coming of age story with knights and ladies will likely be well pleased with this one.
Written in the style of classical authors, such as Henty and Pyle, it could also appeal to thier readers, and is free of some of the issues that sometimes plague more modern works (political correctness, excessive sexual content etc.....).

In a sense, its just smashing good fun- and family friendly fun at that. With the last book I found the archaic style langauge to be something of an issue- but this time around I actually found it rather endearing.
It was intersting to see some of the characters from the last book develop and come into thier own- especially those like Nathaniel whom I found a little flat last time around.
The theme of loyalty and courage was also well-delivered (as well as the messages about not judging by appearances, or failures which could be derived from the story).

Historically- it seemed fairly accurate in the broad sense- though having French characters referring to Shires in France seemed a little dubious. Also, I'm not sure if the idea of bands of knights being able to travel across countries to attack and kidnap one another, without intervention from any kind of centralized legal system seemed plausible.
The King was supposed to be able to control things like that, or local enforcement officers- but we don't really see anything like that here.

The above were really my only complaints though. Overall I enjoyed this, and would certainly like to read the next one.