A Sword Unsheathed Author:Helen Godfrey Pyke His head turned upward, (Prince) Oswald spoke. His lips shaped the words of a prayer Luthwin could not hear. The prince's hands held the cross higher, and then he gave his command. 'We will stand every man where he is.' The army within hearing stiffened. 'We will win. We will not fail. Let them press in on us. Fight where you are... more ».'
"The prince's face shone with confidence that spread to his men. Luthwin sensed the sudden surge of strength and courage.
"The youth looked around him. On every side the Britons advance. Already the axmen and spearmen on the Saxon flanks met their blows. The green banner caught the breeze and spun out above Caswallon's head. Luthwin jumped from Twi and drew his sword.
"'I have so small faith, God, my Maker,' he whispered. "But I do believe. Strengthen us!' He glance at the cros in Oswald's hands. The Saxon army had no need now for the golden banner. He stood beside Twi, ready for the enemy to close in and crush them. But he was not afraid."
In long-ago Saxon England, the youth Luthwin finds himself caught up in fierce conflicts between pagans and Christians, between princes seeking power and kingdoms, and between the gentle Celtic missionaries and the powerful Roman Church.« less