Read Online The Unknown Man: Book 1 in The Keepers of the Orbs Series by J.G. Gatewood - Free Book Online

her were her lord father, and mother. They smiled and waved at the hundreds of citizens who gathered to partake in the evening’s dinner.
    Liniana approached him and stood behind the seat to his right. “You clean up nicely, for a soldier.”
    He tried to avoid the conversation, but realized her comment warranted a response. “I must say you do as well.” He said while the lord and lady stood behind their seats to Liniana’s right.
    A round of applause swept through the room. Lord Brukahn raised his hand to quiet them and said, “I thank you all for joining us tonight to welcome the return of my daughter.” More applause erupted, and he again tried to quiet them. “As most of you know, she left to learn the ways of healing, harnessing the powers of the light. I’m happy to report she returns to us after completing her training. I invite you to enjoy all the comforts I can offer from Havenbrook, and ask you to raise your glasses.” He grabbed his goblet, as others in the room copied his movements. “To my daughter, you have brought me much joy, and I’ve never been prouder. This dinner is for you, and whatever road your life might lead you down.” With that said, everyone took a sip of wine. It seemed obvious how much the citizens of Havenbrook loved Liniana. “Now we dine!” He took his seat, and everyone else followed suit. Servants filled the room to distribute the first course; a couple of thin slices of roast duck over spinach leaves, topped with a tart dressing.
    Lord Brukahn ate his first course and glanced over at the man. “I thank you for allowing us to hold this ceremony before the two of you set out. She deserves this.”
    The man finished chewing before responding. “It’s my pleasure,” he said. “I have to say, I’m quite impressed with your daughter’s skills in combat.” His gaze shifted to Liniana, “She surprised me to say the least.” He let his gaze linger a bit too long. He couldn’t himself as he became enthralled with her beauty.
    Lord Brukahn chuckled. “I’m glad to hear her years of training haven’t been wasted.” The lord must have been hungry. He stuffed his mouth with the duck.
    The man continued eating his own course, trying not to stare at Liniana, but it wasn’t easy. The servants reappeared and started to clear away dishes as jesters, jugglers, and other entertainers filled the room. Because the dinner honored Liniana, he knew there would be dancing. He hoped for the opportunity to ask her to join him for a dance or two.
    To take his mind off the uncomfortable dinner, he gazed around the room. He marveled at the diverse group of people in attendance. Some of them even looked to be commoners, which intrigued him. He would have to ask about them later.
    The same banners found in the audience chamber were present in the dining hall. He continued his gazing about the room, when the servants reappeared to deliver cheese and bread platters to the tables.
    Liniana grabbed a piece of white cheese and turned toward him. “Why are you seeking Norlun?”
    “Your father thought because he’s a seer, he might help me regain my memories.” He ripped off a large chunk of bread from one of the loaves. “Do you have a better suggestion?”
    She finished eating her piece of cheese and a chunk clung to her lower lip. She realized it, stuck out her tongue, and roped it back into her mouth. “No,” she chuckled, “I guess I’m just intrigued by your situation.” She ate another piece of cheese before she pressed on. “It isn’t very often someone comes into contact with a person in your position.”
    He grimaced, “I bet this is a rare situation, and I wouldn’t be surprised if people didn’t believe me. I know I wouldn’t,” he finished.
    She looked at him. “Believing you has never been the issue. I know you’re telling the truth, I can see it.” She paused, “It’s just, you’re a wealthy person, judging by your armor, and you fight well which leads me to