Coifi stood at King Edwin’s bedside examining the bandages on his shoulder, and told him solemnly, “Our brother Lilla is dead.  He took the dagger through before it emerged from his heart and put assault upon your person.”  Edwin’s lips trembled, then his jaw clenched, and the words hissed from his mouth, “I will kill that Wessex, and all of his House.”

“Lilla is in the arms of the Lord for his sacrifice and goodness, and enjoys all happiness now,” said Polonius. “Perhaps the day reveals his intent, my lord,” he added.

“AND his hounds.  And falconry,” said the King as he shook his head slowly.  “What?” he said to the Bishop Polonius, who replied, “Consider that your child is emerging from the womb, even as we spea...

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