Chapter Six
Montiori leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowed as he re-read the missive from his daughter, sent at the order of Reyes, the Dark Lord of Black Dragon Keep:
Father ~ I am being held hostage by Lord Reyes.
It is his command that you present yourself at Black Dragon Keep before the next full moon and surrender yourself and your arms. If you refuse, my life will be forfeit.
Your obedient daughter, Shanara.
He read the note again, then crumpled the parchment in his fist. Did Reyes think him a fool, that he would give up his own life in exchange for that of his youngest whelp?
It was nothing to him if the girl lived or died.
He had five sons to carry on the family line, and more daughters than any man needed.
Montiori turned his attention to the man who awaited his answer. “How do I know my daughter is still alive?”
“You have my lord’s word on it.”
Montiori snorted derisively. “As if I would believe anything that wretched beast has to say.”
Mergrid took a step forward. “My Lord Reyes says he will send the girl back a piece at a time until you surrender, or she dies.” He withdrew a small bundle wrapped in cloth from his pocket. “This is so you will know that my Lord Reyes means what he says.”
Taking the bundle, Montiori removed the wrappings. Inside, he found the first knuckle of a woman’s little finger. Grunting softly, he tossed the bloody bit of bone and flesh into the fire. “Return to your Lord.”
“I was told to wait for your answer?”
“He will know it when he sees it.”
“As you wish,” Mergrid said. Bowing, he turned and left the hall.
Montiori waited until Reyes’ servant was out of the room, then motioned for one of his knights to follow the man.
With a nod of understanding, the knight drew his sword and followed Mergrid from the hall.