Demon Within Read Online Free Page A

for anything now, it would be that she was never born.
    Eloise looked out of the window, but her glazed eyes didn’t linger on anything in particular. In a trance-like state, anxiety overwhelmed her. She’d never felt loved by her father, he’d always remained distant to her. But now, suddenly he needed her to help forge an alliance. Feeling hurt and angry; she served him as an item to trade, nothing more.
     
    ***
     
    Returning from his reconnaissance, after having found a suitable place to make camp, Leon cantered back towards King Garlan.
    ‘My Lord, there’s a clearing off to the side a few hundred yards ahead.’ Turning his horse he sidled up to the King. ‘There’s a stream to restock the water supplies and vantage points for the sentries.’
    In his late fifties Leon remained a handsome man and his once dark hair, now turned silver. The coordinated beard, cut close, stressed his neat and tidy appearance. He’d been a trusted friend to Garlan’s father before he passed, and transferred his loyalty to the prince when he became King. Trying always to guide, and show the best course of action, King Garlan trusted him and listened to his counsel.
    ‘That’s good news Leon, well done.’ Rising from the saddle, his feet dug into the stirrups and he rubbed his backside to get the circulation going. ‘I’m looking forward to getting out of this saddle. I wished we’d arranged the meeting nearer. Less traveling for us would have suited my bones better.’
    Wincing as he sat back, he’d wanted to ride in the carriage with the women, but Roulan said it didn’t set a good example.
    Leon’s eyes raked over King Garlan. Once a lean and fit man, he used to spend hours hunting or learning sword skills. Now, he’d become lazy; barely moved from the soft cushioned chair on the porch these past years. The death of his older brother in a hunting accident had promoted him to the heir when he was in his late teens. After Garlan’s father died, he ascended to the throne and took a wife immediately. Still in his early forties, although his appearance implied he was older than his years, he didn’t uphold a good form.
    ‘Would you let Roulan and the ladies know we’ll be stopping for the night, I’m sure they’re getting hungry by now.’ He gestured to the carriages behind him.
    ‘Yes, my Lord.’ Nodding then pulling on the reins, he pivoted his horse and rode towards the carriages.
    Roulan, riding behind his father and having watched the exchange, pulled out from the caravan and followed Leon.
    ‘Leon, a moment please.’ Spurring his horse forward, Roulan slowed as he reached the older man’s side.
    ‘You’ve found a safe place to stop I trust?’ He already knew the answer but didn’t want Leon to know he’d been eavesdropping.
    ‘Yes, my Lord. Not far. I’m advising everyone we’ll be stopping soon.’ He barely glanced at Roulan.
    Roulan had always been wary of Leon; knowing his father preferred his company to his own; he was jealous. He strived to get his father’s attention, but always felt he was a disappointment. Now, it didn’t matter so much; detached and lacking of emotion towards his father, he concentrated his efforts on making his own mark on the world.
    ‘Continue to the next carriage and the rest of the soldiers, I’ll tell Eloise myself.’ He spurred his horse towards the first carriage.
    Ignoring Roulan’s curt response, Leo continued ahead. He’d watched him grow up and had often received blunt or brisk retorts.
    Roulan’s features were harsh; black hair, unruly and lank, hung around his long face. Absent of any redeeming features, he wasn’t attractive. Dark eyes outlined by thick brows made him appear shifty and sly.
    Leon had become suspicious of Roulan’s recent activities; sneaking out unescorted, he’d had meetings with people unknown to Leon. Uncertain of his reasons, Leon kept silent; the King had enough to deal with. Leon would watch Roulan, and on confirmation of his