Chereads / Hither and Thistle / Chapter 4 - The Bruces

Chapter 4 - The Bruces

Money is power, freedom, a cushion, the root of all evil, the sum of blessings- Carl Sandburg(1878-1967)

Lord Alastair Bruce(1268-1314) had been a powerful force in Culross for exactly 46 years, 7months and 12 days before his demise.

However, this was just the beginning of his legacy in Culross.

After his death, his son, Lord Callum assumed the throne and so did his descendants in this order:

Lord Angus(1314-1350)

Lord Arran(1350-1385)

Lord Malcolm(1385-1392)

Lord Alasdair(1392-1412)

Lord Archie(1412-1445)

Lord Baird(1414-1482)

Lord Blair(1482-1501 )

Lord Bryce(1501-1556)

Lord Alexander(1556-1604)

Lord Athol(1604-1636)

Lord Barclay(1636-1662)

Lord Boyd(1662-1701)

Lord Craig(1701-1756)

Lord Donald(1756-1800)

Lord Finlay(1800-till date)

....

Bruce Manor

Sunset,

Bruce Manor,

Culross,

Scotland.

1805

....

As the sun began to set over Bruce Manor, Lord Bruce could feel the weariness in his bones. He had been attending to his noble duties all day, and now it was time to relax and recharge. With a tired but determined voice, he called out to his loyal butler, Mr. Harrington.

"Mr. Harrington, my good man!" Lord Bruce exclaimed, rubbing his temples. "I require the utmost comfort and relaxation this evening. Please prepare a bath fit for a weary lord, and ensure my chamber is a haven of tranquility for my night's rest."

Mr. Harrington, always attentive to Lord Bruce's needs, nodded with a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Of course, my lord! I shall summon the finest bath attendants to draw you a warm bath, complete with fragrant oils and soothing bubbles. And as for your chamber, I shall ensure it is adorned with soft pillows, fluffy blankets, and perhaps even a few scented candles to create the perfect ambiance."

Lord Bruce's face lit up with anticipation, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Ah, Mr. Harrington, you always know how to make me feel like a pampered noble. Your attention to detail is truly remarkable!"

Mr. Harrington bowed with a playful flourish. "It is my utmost pleasure, my lord. Your comfort and well-being are my top priorities. I shall see to it personally that everything is prepared to your liking."

Lord Bruce chuckled, appreciating his butler's dedication. "Thank you, Mr. Harrington. I know I can always count on you to make even the most tiresome days end on a delightful note. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall retire to my bath and then to my chamber for a night of blissful slumber."