Excerpt: The Vanguard

Donovan knocked on the heavy oak door three times and then waited. The door creaked open.

“Who calls upon the Vanguard?” said the voice.

“Donovan of Armagh.” Donovan replied, “I promise no violence toward all in the House, all therein shall be accorded the respect of brothers and kin.”

“Enter freely Donovan of Armagh, you shall be afforded the same as you promise,” Carmichael replied, unhooking the strong chain and opening the door fully. “About bloody time as well, your tea is getting cold.”