Kingdom's Quest by Chuck Black Read Free Book Online Page A

it—it was something new and powerful. He tried to reason out the foolishness of what he thought must be a new affection for her, but logic found no place to wrest the anchor of love from his heart. He was certain, however, that she had no such feelings toward him because of the pain he had brought into her life. All he could really hope for was forgiveness.
    â€œâ€¦Â do you think, Gavinaugh?” Weston asked, apparently finishing a question that Gavinaugh hadn’t heard.
    Gavinaugh jerked his head around. “I’m sorry … Ah, what do I think about what?” He was embarrassed by his distraction.
    What was that?
Never before had his attention been so diverted.
    Weston glanced toward Marie with a perplexed look, but Marie just smiled.
    â€œI said that maybe it would be wise to have Keanna stay here with us for a time. She seems to be doing so well, and the children absolutely love her,” Weston said.
    â€œYes, that is an excellent idea,” Gavinaugh said, attempting a thoughtful pose. “Where I am going will potentially be dangerous. It would be best for her.”
    When they offered Keanna the opportunity to stay, she accepted, and Gavinaugh found himself strangely disappointed, but he knew it was for the best.
    The following morning, Gavinaugh prepared to leave. Keanna held Triumph’s reins and stroked his neck as Gavinaugh embraced Weston and his family. He then turned and looked upon Keanna.
    â€œI am pleased that you are here with Weston and Marie. They will take good care of you,” he said.
    â€œYes … I am grateful.” She looked briefly into Gavinaugh’s eyes.
    â€œFarewell then, Keanna,” he said and bowed his head slightly.
    â€œFarewell, Gavinaugh.”
    It was the first time she had spoken his name, and as he rode away, he could not help replaying their parting in his mind many times.
    How ridiculous!
he thought.
I have a mission to fulfill and no time for such silliness
.
    He set his course toward Penwell, but the memory of her voice speaking his name accompanied him for many miles.
    Gavinaugh journeyed through various towns and villages, carrying the story of the Prince to all who would listen. There was no mediocre welcome at any of the towns—he was either received heartily or rejected most fiercely. It seemed to Gavinaugh that the Prince created great division among all people.
    Having finally arrived in Penwell, he discovered that the people there were most irritated by his words and his presence. He had managed to recruit a dozen men as Knights of the Prince, but the leadership of the city was quickly becoming hostile toward him. In spite of this,Gavinaugh found one young recruit who inspired him, for he was zealous for the Code and the Prince. Sandon at first seemed quiet, not because of shyness, but because his words were well thought out before he spoke them. On serious matters, he preferred to listen first and then speak. Gavinaugh also discovered a keen sense of humor in the young man, which often surprised those who did not know him well. Sandon’s hair was dark and his jaw was strong. Gavinaugh sensed his loyalty to the Prince and to him.
    The regional governor had issued numerous edicts ordering Gavinaugh to cease his activities and leave the region, but Gavinaugh continued. One day, Sandon stood beside him on the main thoroughfare and boldly petitioned the people to listen to the words of the Prince. When a crowd had gathered, Gavinaugh once again shared the story of the Prince and His life-changing message. What he didn’t realize was that a force of guards was gathering nearby to end what Governor Thurman saw as a threat to his power and to their way of life. Within moments, they were surrounded by an overwhelming force and bound in fetters.
    Gavinaugh and Sandon were briskly taken to the office of the magistrate, where the governor looked on, and the trial and sentencing was conducted in less time