Sir Guy stopped in front of the woman, his sword arm dropping to his side. Was she mad? That had to be the only excuse for the way she was standing next to that leopard. Guy had seen one of those large spotted cats when he had been in the Holy Land. The guide with him explained about the animal, how it was able to kill a human being with very little effort. This one seemed as if it was more inclined to cuddle the woman than kill her.
He did not understand this City at all.
“My apologies, my lady,” he said, not taking his eyes off the animals. “I was concerned about your safety. There are strange beasts about this night. I was attacked not far from here.” He saw no reason to tell her that it had been a squirrel.
“I don’t think I ever met the Lady Gyam of Theacher.” He tried to recall the story that the woman had rattled off to him. “But I have heard of a town fool or two that had been caught naked with the chickens. There was usually a maid involved as well.” Guy had always liked being there when the fools tried to explain the Sheriff why they had been without their clothing in the chicken coop. Some of them had very good stories.
“I don’t quite understand what a shotgun is,” the knight told her, hoping she would explain it. He assumed it was a weapon of some sort. One that required seashells that were filled with rocks and salt. “I can see how the rocks could cause wounds and putting salt into a wound is not a pleasant experience at all. But how do you use the shells against your opponent?’ He was always interested in new weapons. He could happily find Hood and use him as a target.
“I am Sir Guy of Gisborne,” he said, introducing himself with a slight bow. He still watched the animals. “I would feel better if you would allow me to escort you inside where it will be safer.”