Chapter 20Wimborne Abbey, 721 AD
“Sister Cynethryth, your services are needed elsewhere,” Abbess Cuthburga said sorrowfully.
“Elsewhere?”
A cascade of thoughts rushed through the infirmarian's mind, most of them negative, for she had so much work to complete here in Wimborne.
“My brother, King Ine, is ill and his doctors make no progress towards a cure. Your fame as a healer, Sister, has reached the court in Winchester. I wonder…” her eyes twinkled, “…whether Aethelheard might have sung your praises in the king's ear?”
“Must I travel to Winchester?”
“As soon as your escort led by Lord Guthred arrives. The king ails, child.”
“But my work here–”
“Is in capable hands, thanks to your excellent teaching.”
The anxiety for her brother's health, clear on the stern countenance of the abbes
