Politics - Chapter Fourteen

"The Legend of the Bandit King's Stash"
&"The Legend of the Pampered Dandy"
By Lancaster Dowell
Merchant of fine wares, fine wines, and fine people
(As well as the self proclaimed 'Bandit King')

Location: The Forests of Alban.


Every self made, privateering entrepeneur (or theif, for the less than sensitive soul) had himself a stash or two of ill gotten gains. It was in the nature of the thief; to hide his riches for later. It was all brought on by their own practices, and what could happen if their goods were left unprotected.

It was a dangerous world out there. People who wanted their items back were always looking to gut whatever self made businessman earned. Then there were the other bandits who followed the same code as he. They believed that whatever they found was theirs, if it was worth the time to steal. And if it was another thief's stash, then they would take it. After all, it is their stash now, and technically it wasn't originally the original theif's items in the first place. And peasants... do not get Lancaster Dowell started on peasants. He was the son of a peasant farmer himself, and he knew that when peasants were delirious from hunger, they wouldn't have any problem with taking a thief's stash in order to feed his family.

And the reason for a thief to have a place to hide his goods? Because of a gut feeling. Lancaster Dowell had the feeling that his latest heist was too hot to handle on his own. He jumped a merchant and two guardsmen (with the help of three easily duped sisters). The cart was filled with swords, spears, crossbows, daggers, shields and bolts. They were carrying enough weapons to equip ten swordsmen and ten crossbowmen. The techniques and the wood used in the weapons looked like they came from nearby Saxony. Most of the time, Kingdoms tended to build their own weapons. When they started exporting, it meant that trouble was brewing.

It also meant whoever these weapons were meant for, they were not going to be impressed once they found out the Herald of Cocidius was responsible. Fooling peasants into believing he was the helping hand of a sacred diety was one matter, but smart nobles who didn't give a damn who you were before and after your head was taken off your shoulders? Another matter entirely.

And so, Lancaster Dowell had his stash. It was a cave carved into the cliffs overlooking the Albanian forest. Large enough to accomodate one cart, yet small enough to live in without attracting wildlife, the cave was perfect for a stash. The lack of moss inside showed that the items he stashed would not get wet. With weapons, moisture rusted them and decreased their value greatly, but in a dry spot (and the help of a canvas covering), the weapons would be in perfect shape, as long as he checked on them occasionally.

And the matter of the chest, who knew what was in that thing. His best attempts at trying to open the chest with his lockpicking tools failed miserably, and bent his favorite pick in the process. Whatever the lock was, it has a unique design even he never saw before. Redundant multisprings, self locking mechanisms, reset triggers, and a combination. And the iron on the lock was so thick it would take a blacksmith hours to chistle through. It was unbreakable, unpickable and frustrating as hell for a big time bandit like Lancaster.

He proceeded to empty his procured cart, gathering crates of weapons and neatly stacking them on the canvas covered surface of the cave. It took a full half hour to unload all the weapons. When he was done stacking the wooden crates, be placed the lids on all of them, and then threw on a dusty, camoflagued tarp. The weapons were stashed deep enough in the cave,, the darkness concealing Lancaster's hidden treasures.

But what to do about the chest?

~"This is a vexing problem indeed..."~ He stared for minutes at his unbreakable foe, ~"And I never meet a lock I couldn't pick. Whatever is in here... it has to be important. And as the best thief in this land, my reputation relies on being able to pick this lock. Curse it! If I don't pick it, what will people think of me? Not as the bandit king, but as a pathetic lowlife thief! I must break that lock!"~

The lock stared back at him, a huge iron and brass fixture, staring back mockingly at Lancaster with its single, large, keyhole eye. The lock was shaped like a grin, teasing the bandit, taunting him of his failure. It was still standing, and bothering the hell out of him. It bent his favorite lock pick. It was causing him to think about what to do about the chest, and waste valuable time.

The time for action was now. Lancaster went in the cave, searching for some help in his quest for the chest. He pulled out a partisan that looked weighty enough. He then stepped out of the cave and stood over his foe. He raised the weapon high above his head, and with a mighty cry, he yelled, "Open up you cursed lock!!!!"

He swung the partisan full force into the lock's most vulnerable point. THe metal bar keeping the chest closed was hit full force by the partisan's blow, but held firm. The Partisan, however, was not so fortunate. The blade rang as it hit the resiliant iron lock, and then the metal axehead spun somewhere into the bushes, leaving the Bandit king with a broken staff.

He tossed the broken shaft into the air in frustration, spouting off enough curses to make a pursesnatcher or a dockworker blush bright red. After a moment of venting his frustration, Lancaster Dowell settled himself down.

The lock was still staring at him, almost laughing at his misfortune.

"I hate you." He yelled at the chest. He had no choice. A thief made bad judgement calls when he became angry or vain. His anger cost him the good ten pieces of silver he could earn if he sold the partisan. There was no sense in chipping swords and ruining crossbows trying to bash the heck out of the chest, and whatever treasure it held. The chest would have to be dragged into the cave with everything else, and covered up for future attempts.

And he would have to get a new lockpicking tool. Those were hard to find, and he didn't know where in Abertawe he could find such equipment. Not just any blacksmith could make a lockpick. It took a special kind, with the nimble hands of a goldsmith and the unscrupulous mentality of an underworld figure.

~"Dammit..."~ He cursed again. The gods loved a good joke, and Lancaster was the jester on their stage. He hated it when gods transpired against him. So close to the chest... and yet so far. The most sophisticated lock he had ever seen was in his way.

He had to dispose of the cart and the horses in his usual Lancaster way. He slapped the rump of the horse on the cart. Whinnying, the horse bolted off, its trotting like thunder and the wheels of the cart rolling like lightning. The horse was gone in a minute, barrelling deep into the forest.

Lancaster was finally alone with his thoughts.

A good mile away from his mule, Liam.

No horse. Not even a donkey. Hindsight was not one of his best qualities.

"Well i'll be a donkey fondler... I've really done it this time." He muttered. Into the forest he trekked further, in the direction of the area where he kept the mule. Liam was safe near a stream and an meadow, secluded enough so that the animal would not be bothered. But it was still a good mile away. Without a horse, it could take forever.

Minutes gone by, and what seemed like hours he traversed the forest. Trees passed by like wicked spirits, offended by somebody claiming themselves to be the Herald of the God of the Hunt. The forest could be unforgiving. So full of life, and yet if one didn't know how to live in her lush confines they would find themselves hard pressed to survive. But Lancaster wasn't afraid. He was bound to be close to his cart. And if that wasn't the case, he could survive for a little while in the forest. He learned a lot about the forest with his uncle and father during their poaching days. It was enough to live for a short time.

And if he was lucky, he could find an unfortunate picnicker.

Imagine that... he wished, and whatever gods were on duty that day answered. He was out of the forest and into a lush meadow. He knew he had to be close to Liam the mule and his cart. But what was even more merciful was the people nearby.

There were two people, a young noblelad no older than sixteen cycles, and a young and beautiful peasant lady who was approximately the same age. They were enjoying each other's company, eating a packed lunch of roasted meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads and butter. There was even a bottle of Pinot Noir kept inside a water drenched cloth to keep it cool. The two young people were laughing merrily. The girl was in awe, while the noble talked to her with mild amusement.

Lancaster remembered the young lad from the day before. He was the son of a visiting nobleman, and he was bragging about sticking his sword into a pretty peasant girl's scabbard before the next day's sundown. He even had an intricate plan. Send her to the bathhouse to get washed up, buy her a new dress, have the chef prepare a picnic basket for the two and find a secluded place in the countryside. And once she was smitten enough (and very drunk off his wine), the lad would have his way with her and leave with his father the next day. He was laughing at the girl's mistaken notion that they were in love. "Makes them easier if you ask me." The boy bragged to the wine merchant yesterday.

~"Bright lad..."~ He admired the plan, ~"But a foolish one. I hate when nobles take advantage of the common people. The lad bought her heart with a meal, a hot bath and a decent pair of clothes. Disgraceful!"~

Nobody, and he meant nobody, meant to be taken like that. A young girls virginity, for the cost of a meal, a bath and a dress. Little did the girl know, she could get so much more on the market nowadays. A good whore earned much gold with a nobleman. To find that this girl was being shortchanged demanded compensation.

And Lancaster Dowell was the man to do it!

He carefully crept up to the loving couple. The noblelad was fumbling for the peasant's corslet. She was reluctant, but after many honey drenched words from the pampered dandy, she complied and helped the boy in loosening her clothes. In his rushed anticipation, the noblelad threw off his shirt. He then unbuckled his belt and threw it asside, scabbard, money pouch and all near the picnic basket. He kissed her lips urgently, exploring his hands all over her body like a disgusting octopus.

~"Now if you'll excuse me..."~ Lancaster inched towards the boy's fat money pouch, ~"I'll be taking this."~ He snatched up the boy's money pouch, and quickly opened it up. There was nothing but gold in the boy's pouch. Lots of flat, wide gold coins. Enough to feed a peasant for a month (and Lancaster for a week). He tied the pouch to his belt. Seeing the food on the picnic basket, he thought it all looked delicious. He procured himself a Leoncourian breadroll, a wedge of cheddar and a leg of lamb. He also took his bottle of wine back, which was still half full. More than enought to leave the young couple drunk.

And while the Bandit King pilfered their picnic spread, the noble lad groaned, "I want you...."

"Please... I think it is wise if we stop." The peasant girl begged, "If me father finds out, i'll be shunned as a whore."

"Nobody will know what we have done. Don't stop now. This is starting to get fun." The lad pressed onwards, grinding against the girl's loins.

"No.... we have to stop!"

"No... not now..."

"Stop... please... STOP!"

"Silence, wench!" The lad cuffed the young lady across the face. She exploded in tears and jerky movement, trying to wrestler her way out of the noblelad's grasp. The lad's hands wrapped around her wrists and pinned her quivering body to the fresh grass.

Now that did it. Lancaster hated noblemen. He hated their pampered sons, their ornery wives, and their stuck up daughters. He hated how well they ate, how well they slept, how well they lived, and how they could pretty well get away with anything. Many girls fell victim to the nobles promises of love and food in exchange for cheap sex, beatings, and lies.

The nearest thick branch was his weapon. He grabbed the biggest blunt object he could find. The two young lovers were still wrestling around. The peasant girl yelped for help, and the noblelad was struggling with her and his pants at the same time. She kicked, squirmed and fussed, but the noblelad was getting closer to doing his dirty deed. She couldn't get free from his stronger grip.

One minute, the noblelad was trying to persuade a peasant girl to remove her dressings.

The next, he was trying to keep her still.

*WONK!*

And another minute later, he was not seeing a half naked girl. He was seeing stars as pain exploded in the back of his head. And then, darkness. Unconciousness in layman's terms.

The peasant girl heaved the naked nobleman's body off her own after she noticed that the lad was surprisingly limp. She sat up, gathering the remains of her clothes, and saw who came to her aid. He was a tall and handsome man, though his face was covered in cloth and leaves. He had green leather clothes and a green cape also covered in leaves. He had the noblelad's purse on his belt, a sword with a crucified one god symbol on his side, a crossbow on his back, a leg of lamb and a breadroll in his one arm, and cheese and wine in the other.

"Thank you, kind sir." She appreciately nodded, "He was trying to do something horrible to me."

Lancaster felt sympathy for the peasant girl. Poverty drove them to such extreme measures. He couldn't blame her for giving up her virtue for a meal. Peasant life was hard, and sometime sacrifices were made to survive. He loosened the lad's money pouch from his purse, and tossed it to the young woman, saying, "You need this more than I. And if anyone asks, tell them the Herald of Cocidius is out and about."

He glanced back at the unconcious, naked body of the young teenager, "But what to do with this pompous bastard?"

When Lancaster was at a loss about the noblelad, the peasant girl gave a suggestion, "I have an idea..." She whispered it into his ear and he nodded with approval. This woman was bright! And he knew just where to do it.

*****************

Hours later, on the main route to Alban.


The noblelad was seeing starlight for the first time in what seemed like minutes. His head throbbed in the back. There was intense pain in his skull, like a great headache from eating too much iced cones... but much worse. The back of his head felt sticky and sore. The rest of his body didn't feel that much better, for there was a slight draft.

There was something wrong. He was having a wonderful time with a peasant girl. Sure, the girl was reluctant, but once she saw the magic of his muscle, there would be no turning back. He was rather regretful that he couldn't show it to her. She would have been much impressed.

But sadly, he felt himself bound. He couldn't move his muscles, no matter how hard he tried. They were held fast by tightly bound ropes, and they bit his flesh whenever he moved.

The peasant girl was going to pay!

But first, he had to get out of his binds, and perhaps find out where he was. Though he didn't pay much attention to his master's astronomy teaching back in the court of Leoncour, he still could try to find out where in this accursed swamp of a kingdom he was. The stars were overhead, but they never revealed the answer.

And as for the ropes, he was still bound. Movement couldn't shake them loose. On further inspection, he felt that it was a tree he was bound to. A lone tree on a hill right beside the main route to Alban. He saw the distant lights of the city and the silouhette of the castle overhead. The last he checked, he wasn't supposed to be that close to Alban! The peasant girl knocked him out, most likely robbed him, and then had her ruffian friends tie him to a tree. The wench was going to die once he saw the magistrates.

Then, he saw the strangest sight. These weren't the clothes he was wearing before. They were itchy, and of lower quality than the noble dress he was used to. And they were green clothes....

Green like the forests.

And the cape and the hat... looked like that of a bandit's attire!

He felt that trouble was coming for him. Revenge was not paramount anymore. If the magistrate caught him in bandit's clothes, he would be thrown in one of those dirty dungeons, forced to live with lepers, and thiefs who haven't seen a woman in a long time...

But the most damning omen was yet to come. He found a sign hanging from his neck. Tilting his eyes down, he read the sign, which was in common celtic.

="I AM A THIEF!"=

And beside him, a horse trotted up to him. It was alone, carrying a cart with the royal crest of one of the nobles of Abertawe!

"Si tu es contre Dieu, tu es contre l'Homme."
(If you are against God, you are against man.)

Enigma, "Sadeness"
By Micheal Cretu
Album: MCMXC a.D.

---

"Kept in the Dark"
Isa, Queen Mother
Rowena, Prince
Robyn, Royal Healer - npc

The maid laid out the Queen's afternoon repast. The tea was poured and ready
for her when she entered. Rowena sat politely waiting for her mother. She
had begun to like this afternoon snack with her mother. Her hair was brushed
prettily and she actually had managed to clean the dirt from her fingers.

Isa gave her youngest daughter a kiss. "Hello sweetheart, you are looking
wonderful. Did you have a good day?" Isa had more energy, she loved being
back in the thick of things.

"It was fun until the knights left. Lord Alterian made me come inside."
Rowena
said with a small pout. "Why is he always so grumpy?"

"He is not always so grumpy, sweetheart. Yet he is a very busy man." Her
mother said. "What knights?"

"Alterian left with some Knights. They went with Bronwen's beau and they
seemed to be going for a while. Cal said they was taking the pavilions?"
Rowena said glad to know something her mother did not seem to know.

"You mean they left, without telling me!" The queen mother had difficulty
understanding that. In her view Alterian worked for her, and he should have
discussed this with her.

She waved one of her personal servants closer. "Please find out for me when
lord Alterian left, and who went with him."

"Yes, milady!" The servant bowed and withdrew. Rowena occupied her mother
with small tales and antics, returning more to her once vibrant self then she
had been for some time. She even reached for her teacup without fumbling for it.
Before Isa could comment the servant returned. "Milady. Lord Alterian left at
first light this morning. He took a full contingent of castle guard, provisions for
at least one week and Sir Gwilym was leading the men. A lad in the stables
said he heard them mention something of others joining the party as it
progress. The young guardsman who was said to have left with your daughter
was leading the party. However, no one saw the Princess nor the King. Also,
Sir Shannon and Dame Mae have recently ridden in. They were with the King's
party. However, they both were unavailable for me to speak with." The
servant bowed and waited for the Queen Mother's response.

"Seth was here at court, and he did not come to see me!" Isa was getting
angry. Something the servant and her daughter had not seen in a very long
time. "And lord Alterian didn't think to warn me. Who do they think I am!"

"Perhaps, his majesty ordered Alterian to remain silent. You know that the
Lord is the King's man first and foremost." Her servant said taking a step
back but speaking with assurance. She had been with the Lady Isa since she had
arrived so many years ago.

"I don't believe my son would do that." She started, but she was not sure.
Hawk was a much better politician then his father was. she dreaded the
thought that he would shut her out. Running the court was one of her joys of life,
for Isa was not a conventional woman, no wonder none of her children had turned out
to be.

"Your son is not aware of your return to health, milady." The servant pointed
out quietly.

Rowena looked up. "This is true, mama. You were still moping about when Hawk
left." Rowena immediately realized her words were ill chosen. "Sorry!"


Isa had to laugh over that. "Maybe you are right, little one. It certainly
took me long enough to get my priorities right, didn't it." She gave her
daughter a kiss. "I will talk to your brother when he gets back, and to Alterian."

"Hawk couldn't come home mama, he is sick." Rowena said with a worried frown.

"He must be with Bronwen though, if her beau came back to get Lord Alterian?"

"Yes, another thing I would have liked to get an update on." Isa said. "can
you sense how your brother is doing?"

"No, I know he is alive. He tried to leave and I dreamed I spoke to him,
then things felt better. I haven't.. I am sorry." Rowena bit her lip for she
could not access the things she saw at will.

"Don't be, sweetheart. You still have a lot to learn, you are young, it will
come. If your brother was in danger right now, I am sure you would Feel it.
You two seem to have a very strong bond." What worried her was that Rhys
seemed to have the same abilities.

"I love him very much." Rowena nodded, smiling. "Do you like the knew druid?

He is different?"

"I have met him only once, my Dear." Isa said. "he is not somebody from
around here, so it will take a little while for lord Alterian to check Him out,"
longer now with Alterian away. "Then if everybody agrees, you can meet him,
and we can discuss if he will be your new teacher. Don't worry, your father
and I are not taking any chances with your safety."

"I already met him." Rowena answered simply.

"you what!!!" Isa was really angry now. "Does anybody still listen to me
around here? I explicitly forbade it. I will have that druid's hide for
this!" She started to rise.

"Mama, it is okay. I was gardening and he gave me something to help me
see. It is working?" Rowena said hurriedly.

"What did he give you?" Isa was scared, why would the man go to her daughter
without permission, if he meant well. "we should take you to a Dr. straight
away." Then she remembered that she did not want to frighten the little girl.
"It's OK, sweetheart. I just want to have another look at your eyes." But
inside she was so frightened, she would make sure that the druid would be
punished very severely.

Rowena was confused. She thought druids were good. She pulled the small
packet that the druid have given her out of her pocket and handed it to her
mother. "It does help?" She said with concern. "He is a good man, mama. I
can sense it?"

Now Isa was confused. But she wanted to believe her daughter. But the man
had acted without permission, and that worried her.
"Tell you what, sweetheart. We're going to see the doctor, and let him have
a look at you and at these herbs." If he said both were OK, she would
reconsider punishing the druid. But she did not tell her daughter that.

"All right." Rowena sighed. "I miss Audrey." She moved to her mother and
gave her a hug, holding on. Rowena these days seemed to flit from little lady to
small child. Her eight birthday would be soon and yet she seemed so much
older at times.

"I miss her to, she was a sweet girl. And your brother loved her dearly. "She
doubted that her son would ever love again, not after two women he loved died.
"Come on, let's go."

Rowena allowed her mother to escort her from their tea. She didn't understand
what her mother was so worried about. It wasn't as if she had been
attacked or poisoned and she could actually see a little better. They arrived in the
healer's rooms and Rowena hesitated. She didn't really like the healer.

"Master Robyn." Isa said. "Can you have another look at my daughter, and tell
me how she is doing. And can you look at these herbs for me and tell Me what
they are?" the healer was new to court, and sometimes Isa did not envy him.
Although Audrey had not been here long, she had been Loved by everybody, and
her place was a hard one to fill.

The healer sat the bag of strange, fat-looking yellow seeds on the counter.
"Come Princess, sit here." He indicated a chair. Rowena sat down, a frown on
her face and her arms crossed protectively. Master Robyn looked into both her
eyes and then smiled. There was more reaction then there had been the last
time he had examined the princess. "Now Princess, I am going to take an item
from far away and bring it to you slowly. When you can clearly see it, tell me
what it is. But not till you can clearly define it. Please do not guess."

Rowena nodded and the healer slowly brought a small item from a ways out
towards her. About two feet from her face, Rowena smiled. "It is a small
dagger." The healer's hand had ceased to move when she smiled.

"Can you tell me what is on it?" He asked gently.

Rowena shook her head no. He slowly brought it closer. About a foot away,
again she smiled. "It has a snake around its handle."

"Very good." He said. He turned to look at the Lady Isa. "Her sight has
drastically improved. When last I examined her, such detail would have only
been found by very close examination and touching."

Isa was very pleased, she embraced her daughter. "That is wonderful,
sweetheart. Did you give her A new treatment the last time you saw her?" she
asked. "And what do you think about the herbs."

"Nay, I have done nothing different. As for these, I am not sure. I think
that
they are not herbs at all but the seeds of a pine tree? Why do you ask?"
Robyn looked at her with a question in his eyes. He did not understand the
significance of the small pouch of nuts.

"It was given to her by somebody." Isa said. "And I need to know if it can be
harmful. Or maybe if it is responsible for her improved eyesight."

"Nay, it is not harmful, but to be honest milady, I have never heard of using
pine nuts to help with one's sight." Master Robyn smiled at her. "But I will
be the first to admit I do not know everything."

"That is because you are not a druid." Rowena said imperiously.

"Mind your manners, young lady." Her mother said sternly. Then she turned to
the healer again. "Thank you, master."

Rowena dropped her eyes in response to her scolding. "Yes, mama." She answered
quietly. She didn't like the healer at all.

Isa left with her daughter. "Tell me, have you made a new appointment with the
druid, if so I would like to know when."

"No, he is a watcher, I don't even know where he is or if he lives here?"
Rowena answered quietly. Her mother never scolded her and she hadn't taken it
well.

"Will you tell me the minute he shows up again?" Her mother asked, then she
tilted her daughter's head up. "I expect my children to be civil to people.
You are a princess, they cannot talk back to you, so it is not fair to be rude
to them, do you understand that?" She finished more gently.

"Yes, mama." Rowena said, her eyes misting up. "I am sorry. I do not like
him."

"You made that very clear." She smiled. "But as a princess, you must try to
learn not to show people when you don't like them. You can't like everybody,
and it doesn't mean he is a bad person if you don't like him." Then she took
the little girl into her arms. "I am not mad at you, sweetheart. You are still
young, but you must learn in time."

"Why must one hide how they feel about another?" Rowena was told to be honest
and this conflicted with that. "Is that not lying?"

"I can understand that you are confused." Isa sat down and took the child on
her lap. "The rules for us are a little bit different from for other people,
my Dear. It is not lying, it is not telling the complete truth. And we hide
our feelings, because the common people cannot do anything against us. You do
not like the master, and you can tell him, you can make him feel Miserable.
But he can't say the same to you because you are a princess, and he would be
afraid to be punished. do you understand that?" She asked patiently. "That's
why it
is sometimes better not to tell the whole truth."

Rowena frowned. "But I can't punish anyone?" This was confusing. There
should be one set of rules?

"You can, but only if somebody deserves it. The reason you gave that you don't
like the master is not good enough. Because he is doing his best to cure you.
That is the distinction you are going to have to learn to make. Do you think
you can do that?" Her mother asked.

"I suppose?" She answered. "I am to young to punish anyone, so I have time
to learn." She answered with the quiet assurance of an innocent child.

"Yes, you have time, my Dear. Just try to remember it once in a while." Her
mother said and gave her another hug.

Rowena hugged her mother tightly. "I love you." She whispered. She hadn't
said that much to anyone since she had disappeared.

"I know that sweetheart, I love you very much too."

---

"Beginning The Investigation"
Kingdom Of Abertawe
Sir Gwynne Hawley- Crest of Topaz
Bromlin ap Denovin



It had taken awhile, but Gwynne had finally found a man that might be able
to help him find Arianna's real parents for Lord Iorwerth. He had been given
specific instructions on the matter.

"Yah milord, that carriage right there is owned by Bromlin, I just saw him
enter it. Hurry though he's getting' away!" the stableman replied. Gwynne
ran for his horse, jumped up to the saddle and dashed down the street after
the coach.

"Stop that carriage, in the name King Gwalchmai!" Gwynne bellowed. He had to
yell it a few times before the driver heard him.

"Whas this about?" the carriage driver asked.

"I have urgent business with Lord Bromlin," Gwynne smiled and then knocked
on the carriage door. He stepped down off his horse, tying the reigns to the
back of the carriage. Gwynne liked being able to stop carriages, apprehend
people that needed to be apprehended, and to basically be the law of the
shire. He took pride in the job, and enjoyed the prestige that it gave him.
He never tried to use the position for ill gain however.

Bromlin was truly mystified. He knew the king was out of town. Add that to
the fact that he had never met the king since he retired well before Hawk
had ever returned and Bromlin sat perplexed. Then it dawned on him that this
might be some joke by his old friend Iorwerth. Bromlin gave a chuckle as he
reached out and opened the door.

"Boy, run on back to your master and tell good ol' Iorwerth that I look
forward to our next visit, but this time, he must come visit me."

"First good sir, I am not a boy. I hold the Crest Of Topaz in this kingdom,
I am here on behalf of Lord Iorwerth this is true. But he has sent me to you
on urgent business, I swear this to you on my honor," Gwynne replied. "Might
I enter the carriage and speak with you?" Gwynne continued. Gwynne was
dressed in a fine green tunic, with a black satin cloak, his stockings
matched his tunic, his sword was displayed prominently at his side, it was a
sword of a Knight of Abertawe. Gwynne's long blonde hair was clean and
styled well, his piercing blue eyes held both honor and urgency to them.

"Well, I was serving in the courts of Abertawe when you were not yet born,
so to me, you're still a boy, no offense. If you have questions, step in and
let's get them over with. I want to be home before dinner." Bromlin was
acting pressed for time, not rude. He still couldn't understand what he
might know to help this lad out.

"I appreciate your service to the crown milord, I meant no offense myself.
But, I was born a prince, I'm not used to being called boy," Gwynne smiled
cordially at the man and then got right to business. "I am looking for the
true parents of Arianna ui Llewelyn. Lord Iorwerth thought that you might be
of some help in this manner. Anything you can tell me about her real parents
would be very helpful?" Gwynne asked.

"Well, Prince Gwynne, I'm not sure exactly what you are to gain from me.
Lord Iorwerth and I just held this conversation. This is why I came to
Alban. I never knew nor know of Arianna's parents. I only knew her foster
Parents, Arvel ap Kynan and his wife Megan. They live in Evandler. Her
foster father was a knight of Abertawe who sent Arianna to his friend,
Forimor, another retired knight of Abertawe. Forimor was asked to train her.
Forimor asked me to teach her the ways of court. She ended up living at my
estate until she left for here to petition for knighthood. I am afraid she
didn't speak any on her true parents. She only expressed her love for those
that raised her. I hope this helps. I feel I have betrayed her just by
talking about her without her consent. I will have to write her to let her
know of our conversation, so I hope this was not meant to be in secret."
Bromlin smiled cordially to Gwynne.

Gwynne looked perplexed by this, Iorwerth told him that this man would know
Arianna's real parents. Gwynne gently rubbed his chin in contemplation on
the matter. "As I understand it milord, Iorwerth wishes this to be kept
secret from Arianna. I believe he would appreciate your silence on this
matter?" Gwynne asked.

Bromlin shook his head, "I do not like the idea of lying to my friend,
Arianna, but if Lord Iowerth requests privacy then he will get it. Now if
you don't mind, Sir Gwynne, I would like to be on the road before it is too
late and I am forced to stay here until the morn." Bromlin was not being
rude. He just hated travel by night.

"Thank you milord, Arvel and Megan ap Kynan, I shall make note of this and
seek them out. Do you have directions to their home?" Gwynne asked. Abertawe
was still a new land to Gwynne.

"Well, other than telling you they live in a cottage just northeast of
Evandler, I'm afraid I know nothing else. I have never been there and never
thought to obtain directions from Lady Arianna. I am sure with a little
inquisition in Evandler, you'll have no problems finding them. After all,
her mother is a healer which should make it easy to gain information."
Bromlin shrugged his shoulders for that was all he knew.

"Thank you milord, I shall travel to Evandler and fine her foster parents
there. I thank you for your time and understanding, long live the King!"
Gwynne replied with a smile and a salute and was on his horse and galloping
away before Lord Bromlin could even reply. Gwynne was on a mission and he
would not fail.

---

"Mutual Enemies"

- Baron McCullen

- Baron Morial (npc)

**********

Baron Morial had left Nwython to listen to Gwilym's story. He rode up
alongside Seth and matched his pace. "Do you have a moment, Sir?"
he asked.

Seth was surprised by the move of the baron and nodded."How can I
help you sir?"

"I wished to congratulate you. Your affair with Princess Bronwen has
caused much consternation, not to mention being the catalyst for many
of the King's problems with the nobility. But I believe in the long
run you may have done a great service to us all."

Seth was surprised, but wondered just what he meant."What do you
mean?" Seth was really confused now.

"Should Sanglet have married the Princess there would have been no

stopping his ambition to eventually take the crown," said Morial by way

of explanation. "And it certainly would have been the last thing you

would have wanted. Do you remember the lances you received before

you were to joust Sanglet?"

Seth nodded remembering well although that seemed so long ago."I do
remember. What significance were they?" Seth was glad that things
had turned out very well in the end.

"Significance? They were merely tools of battle." Morial examined the
squire (or so he still thought) critically. "I am somewhat surprised however
that the joust did not occur. Which man reneged on the challenge? No-one
just walks away from a duel without good reason."

"I believe it was Sanglett, but it seems so long ago. I know that I'm not a
man who would back down easily. I believe it was Sanglett who did it. Why
do you ask Baron?"Seth was curious about this man's curiosity.

Morial gave a wry smile that tilted the corner of his mouth. "I had my hopes
that you would do away with the Duke. Perhaps it did not fit his purposes to
face you in combat, although I believe he is overconfident and would not
hesitate to do away with an enemy. He may have gotten wind that you were
receiving help, but I doubt it. 'Tis a shame you did not get the opportunity
to use those lances, friend. He may have gotten quite a rude shock."

Seth grinned."That he would have. I was looking forward to facing him to be
honest. I wanted to knock him off of his pedestal once and for all. I'm
sorry if that's inappropriate, but it is the truth."

"It is hardly inappropriate, my friend, and do not concern yourself with my
opinion of such sentiment. Any enemy of Sanglet is an ally of mine." He
bowed to the younger man. "If he should threaten you in the future again,

please don't hestitate to send word to me. I will aid you as I can."

Seth smiled and nodded. "Let us both hope that Sanglett has learned his
lesson even though I would like to see him put out of his misery at times.
That man has caused me too much grief and pain. Let's hope that is all

past us. What has made you dislike him so much?"

"Perhaps when you learn a little more about the ways of court I may tell

you. But until then I will relish the opportunity to spread word of the Duke's

cowardice. Until we meet again, may you and your new wife bear God's

blessings." And with that, he rode away from the new Baron and back to

Nwython's side.

**********

---

 

Mutual Removals
Duke Jon Sanglet
Lady Morgan Brasar

Morgan had become more nervous. Gwynne had not appeared after their
somewhat traumatic good-bye in the Inn. She knew that the bardess Jolene
was not receiving him, and that he had left town. But he had not come by
the manse to say good-bye and this worried her.

She had a horse brought round and rode the back trail across her boundaries
to Lord Sanglet. The Knight was busy moping about and she had yet to approach him a second time. She left a message that she had gone riding on the western path, the opposite way she had gone lest he decide to ride out to her. She also
left in that direction and doubled back, sending her groom and her maid on down the eastern paths. She gave them instructions that should anyone join them, to let them
know that Morgan had decided to give her horse its head and she had not yet returned to join them. She instructed them to meet her at the small bridge before
the main road.

She made her way quickly to the backdoor of Sanglet's estate and sent a maid
for him. Fortunately, he was in residence. She smiled, smoothing her dark green riding skirt down and checking her hair in the trough before turning to await the evasive Lord.

When Jon heard that a Morgan had arrived he immediately left to go see her. "What kind of help does that lass need now?" He said to himself. "it doesn't matter, what hurts her seemed to help him." He thought with a smile. When he got there he bowed and said, "Good to see you milady." He gallantly kissed her hand.

"Milord, I have a matter of urgency I wish to discuss. If we could speak in private?"
She said, she did not know how much time she had before Amlyn's curiosity roused him from his sulk.

"Yes milady, right this way." He said with a bow a turned a round and began to walk to his meeting room.

Morgan waited till he had shut the door. "I need something, I know you are capable. I am willing to pay almost anything to secure it." She said quietly.

"You must want me to make some disappear." Jon said sitting down. "I am very good at that and love doing so for my friends" Jon said with a sly smile.

"Aye, I wish a bardess from the Swan to suffer a horrible mishap, I care not what. Throw her to your men for all I care, but I want her removed." Morgan said firmly.

"And why do you wish this mishap to happen." Jon said with curiosity.

"She stands in my way of something I need. Do I need a better reason?"
Morgan said curtly. "What is your price?"

"No other reason is needed, but for the price I have a nuisance that must be rid of. Jon said starting to look serious.

"Ah a mutual disappearance." Morgan said with a chuckle. "Mine first and I will arrange yours. "I will invite the bardess to sing at a supper party for all the nobles that were NOT invited to attend the King. I wish her to disappear on her way back to town."

"What meeting!" Jon said flying out of his chair with concern.

Morgan smiled. "I am surprised that your sources are not better then mine. Lord Alterian rode out with a party to meet with the King at an undisclosed location."

"I am guessing you know where this undisclosed location is?" Jon said cursing out his sources. Someone would pay for this.

"Not yet, but I will. I have someone following at a discreet distance." She said with a laugh. "But that was not the point? I am having a party for those who were ostracized to fan the flames of discontent. After this party, I wish this bardess removed."

"Easy task." Jon said sitting down again. "You do know who I wish to be wiped off to a far place."

"I figure it is either the guard or the princess." She said with a smile.

"I have other things planned for the guard. I want you to sell the princess to some slavers so she will never come back." Jon said with a smile thinking of what her face would look like.

"I can arrange that. First mine, and then yours. First, we must find her?'" Morgan
said with a smile. "That was all I had. I look forward to dinner, shall we say two days hence?"

"Sounds good to me, three days after shall the princess disappear?" Jon said knowing that this meeting would be over soon.

"If I can arrange it that fast. A bardess is not guarded as a princess will be. It might take longer to arrange." She said thoughtfully.'

"True, it will be harder. I have a few things to take care of so I most go, good-day." Jon said standing up and bowing. "Till two days time."

Morgan nodded and turned on her heel and left. She headed back down the main road so she could meet her groom and her maid.

Jon watched her go and smiled. ~If I can't have the princess, no one will.~

---

"Sibling Discoveries"
King Hawk
Princess Bronwen

The next morning Hawk felt rested. Maybe he really had needed a doctor and
a bed. Now he sat up, and realized his strength was still pretty drained.
So he called out for his sister to get him some help. Because he was not
going to spend the whole day in bed.


"What are you doing up. Seth should be back this evening and you will need
to be rested. You lay back down." She scolded firmly.

"I am the King!" Hawk said, but smiled. "I am bored, Dear sister."

"Right now there is just you and me and therefore you are nothing more then
my injured brother. You will remain in this bed till the outrider spots the
party with Seth. Until then, I will keep you company." She frowned at him.
"For a King, you are a big baby."

Hawk pulled a face. "I'm trying to be tough, I want to get up. Babies stay in
bed all day. Did the healer put you up to this? He only saw me yesterday, how
does he know how I feel now."

"I don't need a healer to tell me that your wounds could be easily reopened.
If you wish to be King for more then a few more days, you must lay back and
let them knit." She pressed him back onto the pillows and sat down beside him.
"I am glad you are here." She admitted.

Hawk stayed down this time. He looked at her seriously. "Why? Are you not
happy here?" He had been afraid of this, she was used to so much luxury.

"I haven't been here long enough to know. We got here late in the night
and Seth left after some mysterious visitor to find you the next morning."
She said with a frown. "But when we left, I don't know, I feel like someone
is always watching?"

"What the you mean? You don't feel safe here?" That made him uneasy, what if
somebody came for him and hurt his sister in the process.

"We have had strange mishaps every since we left Alban. We had to flee to
come here in secrecy." Bronwen said with a frown. "Why would anyone want to harm
me or Seth?"

Hawk sighed. "The same reason why they killed Audrey. Some people just don't
want to see nobility marry to commoners." He was worried for his sister
now. "I am taking you back to court as soon as I can ride again. You are not
safe here. Don't worry, that husband of yours can come to." And he would have
to do something about the boy's status. He'd ask his mother and Alterian about
that, they were good in stuff like that. If mother was up to it, he sure hoped she
was by now.

"But won't you have to punish Seth if we go back to court?" She asked with
wide eyed concern.

"What's done is done. And since you are married, nobody will expect me to
murder my brother in law. And you belong at court, you would not be happy
here. Don't try to fool yourself. Mother or Rowena could lead a simple life,
you can't." Being honest would help her more.

She looked away for she did not want to believe she was less capable then her
little sister. "I am not sure Seth will be happy in court either? A wife's
place is with her husband." Bronwen frowned off into the distance.

Hawk saw the look on her face and smiled. "You are jumping to conclusions
again, little sister. I am not saying that you are worth less than Rowena,
you are different. And for a princess you have the better skills, my lady. And
about your husband, we will have to ask him. And maybe offer him a better
position than bodyguard."

"You think I have been unwise, don't you?" She asked, playing with the hem
of her overskirt. "I do love him."

"I know." Hawk suddenly looked very sad. "Yet, was marrying him fair? I
thought I could live an ordinary life with Audrey. But because I am King, she
was murdered. You are my sister, nothing can change that. It endangers the
ones we love. And you Married beneath your station too. Part of me envies
you for what you did, and part of me feel sorry for you. It will not be easy."

"Lord Sanglet forced the issue, I would not have acted so hastily or with so
little decorum. I wish I could explain what he is like around me." Bronwen
sighed sadly.

"I am not saying that you do not love your husband. But in the long run it
will be difficult. Now you are very much in love, but in a little while you
will begin to notice All that you have to miss. And he will notice to and
feel guilty. You have to be aware of this, and fight for your happiness
every day. It's going to be hard work. And I want to help you make it as
easy as I can." Her brother said with compassion.

"What of Sanglet?" She asked worriedly. "I .. I do not trust him?"

"I don't either. But he is a smart man and careful. As long as I have no
evidence against him, I can do nothing. But from now on I will watch him more
closely. Things will change when I return to the capital." He promised her.

Bronwen frowned. Her brother could do something but chose not to? She
understood it was because of his idea of fairness. "What about the fact that
he blackmailed me?"

"you heard him, but you have no witnesses. There is no proof. With out that I
cannot do anything. I must be a just ruler, do you understand that little
sister. It must not look like I am doing this just to please you."

Bronwen frowned. She understood that as she understood many things about
politics. But she did not have to like it in the least. "He is not so
stupid." She said almost cursing. She doubted the man spoke ever without
having thrice prepared.

"I know, but one day he will make a mistake. Keep an eye on him, like I do,
but don't let him get to you. You are grown up now, I need you at my court, you
and your husband both. The gods know I need all the support I can get." He smiled
at her. "Let's not talk politics anymore, why don't you show me around your
lovely New house." His eyes were laughing.

"I would do that, brother dear, but that would mean rising from this bed and
that is something you shall not do till the outrider lets us know the party
approaches. I will tell you what. I will have a bath brought up. If you will
soak in the herbs that I have prepared, then we can await my husband
downstairs when you are done? By the way, you need a squire."

"That sounds like a wonderful compromise." hawk said. "About a squire, I
already have one." He thought of Huw whom he had left in Dinas Dwr so
seriously injured all those months ago.

"I have not seen him?" Bronwen said rising. "You should send for him?" She
opened the door and beckoned the young girl forward who waited without. "Fetch the
King a warm bath and set it here before the fire. Get the stable boy to help
with the tub if you need to." Bronwen shut the door and turned to Hawk for
his response.

"I don't even know if he would want to come. It was kind of my fault that he
was wounded. And he has been very ill for a long time. I am sending him money,
don't think I have for gotten about him. But he doesn't write, so I don't
think he is interested in serving me anymore." He tried not to show her how
much that hurt him.

"Perhaps you should send a missive to him, asking him to come. He may think
that you don't want him anymore because of his injuries?" Bronwen said
quietly.

"Why would he think that, he knows me. He knows he's welcome here. I miss the
boy, he was like a younger brother to me." Huw Had been one of the few he
could really trust, and be himself with, despite the difference in rank.

"Why did you see yourself as a lessor man because of your injuries you
sustained?" Audrey had told Bronwen of the struggle to bring Hawk back
around. "Do you know if he has a lasting part of his injuries?"

"I think he is recovered. That's what my sources tell me, like I told you he
doesn't respond to me. That should tell you enough." He hated talking about
himself with his sister. But already she did not worship him anymore as she
once had. She already knew he was a fallible man. "I have done things over the
past few years that I'm not proud of. I have been constantly tired, I lost
two women I loved dearly, I have been wounded too often. Until very
recently, I was not even sure I wanted to live. I know that must sound strange
to you. you are so young and innocent."

Bronwen blushed. "I know what it is like to wonder if you wish to live." She
said quietly.

"How would you know that. You have never lost somebody close to you, your life
has been so easy up to now." Her brother said not unkindly.

"I lost my brother once." She pointed out. "Sometimes things can bring
one to dispair for other reasons as well."

That was not the answer he had expected, and for a moment hawk did not know
what to say. "I... you... that was only kidding was it? You knew I was alive,
and that I might comeback one day. You didn't take it that badly, did you?" He
had never realized that it would hurt others so badly if he left or died.

"Everyone took it badly, Hawk." She said quietly. "Especially Uncle Wyn."
Hawk's bath was brought in, interupting further conversation. As the tub was
filled, she looked at him. "I will bathe you if you wish or I can have a man
attend you?" It was an offer the King would expect in any province.

"If you would do it, I mean if you don't mind." He said, he really didn't want
a stranger to see him this week. "I never realized. I thought it would be best
for everybody if I left. I was only the shadow of the man I once was. I
didn't want to burden anybody with that. I didn't know..." it was the
injuries, there suddenly were tears in his eyes. "Maybe you could give me
a moment alone." He choked.

"Okay, I need to get some more dressings and some towels. I will be back in a
few minutes." She left him alone. He had needed to know that his actions
affected them all. His leaving had left a large void in the family.

Part of him was sorry she left, he needed somebody to hold him now, a
woman. He missed Audrey so much, she was the only one for whom he could be
weak, show his emotions. So now the King burried his head in his pillow, and
sobbed like a little boy.

Bronwen gave her brother a good quarter of an hour before reentering. "If you
have collected yourself, you should bathe. The outrider farthest out has spotted
Seth and the party you sent for."

His eyes were still red from crying. Yet he came to his feet, and stumbled in
the direction of the bath. "You are never going to forgive me, are you?" He
said very softly.

"I forgave you long ago. But you must stop acting as if you were the only
hurt by your losses? Do you not think that we cared for your wife? Or Audrey?
You are selfish, Hawk, more so then I have ever been accused of for at least I
know that every action I have taken affects others?" Her tone was gentle but
scolding nonetheless. She helped him undress and get into the bath.

"I never realized, mother and father never told me. I was so... All I wanted
was to die. I never thought of anybody else. I am so sorry, little sister. Do
you think I should step down as king? What kind of a King would I make, if
I do not see the affects of my actions. I want to rule justly, I want to
create a country where nobody needs to be hungry, where every body has a roof over
their heads. Where people can rely on the law, no matter how rich or Poor they
are. But am I the man to do that? now father is an honest man, he knows that
actions have consequences, maybe he would make a better King after all?" Hawk
really wanted to be king now, but what his sister had said about him had
scared him deeply.

Bronwen laughed outright. "Father would rather behead his enemies. Do you
really see him as a better king?" She asked with a grin. "Quit feeling sorry
for yourself."

"no, I know father would make a very bad King, mother would make the best King
In our family." He smiled. "you really think I can do it?"

She began washing him gently. "If you quit feeling sorry for yourself. You
have had great losses. That will allow you great compassion for those in
similar situations. But if you continue to let the cripple you, Sanglet will
take the throne and some would say rightfully."

"I will try not too. But part of that makes me human. It will be a while
before I stop Grieving for Audrey, but I will try not to show it to others
anymore, if that makes you more happy. And I will do my duty as King now, that
I promise."

She reached down for the dipper and poured warm water over him. "No one
expects you to not greive, Hawk. But you are allowing your grief to destroy
you. Your son and your family need you." She said quietly. "It would help if you
would quit trying to gain your deathbed?"

"last Time I couldn't help it, we were fighting, I had no choice, ask the
others. And you know that I am a beserker. I cannot help that, little
sister. I wish I could, because honestly, I don't want to die. I want to be a good King,
and I want to see my son grow up. And I want to be there for you when you need
me."

"Here is a thought, try avoiding the situation in the first place." She
teased lightly. She playfully splashed him before rinsing the lavender soap
from his hair.

He splash some water back, careful with his injuries. Then he looked at her.
"You have grown up, I am glad you are my sister."

Bronwen blushed and went to fetch the towel, warming by the fire. "I suppose
I have. I am married now after all."

"That doesn't mean a thing. Some people never grow up. But you have changed. I
hope you and your husband come back to court, I can really use your support."
He let her dry him, and allowed her to dress him in some comfortable clothes.
"Will you keep an eye on me later on, so I don't do too much. I am still
learning this taking it easy business."

"Of course." She said. A knock came at the door. Bronwen went to answer it and
then came back. The party approaches, let us get you downstairs. She helped him
with his boots and then downstairs to await his advisors.

---

 

Meeting the King
Seth McCullen
Lord Alterian
Sir Gwilym
King Hawk
Princess Bronwen
Sir Nwython
Baron Moriel


The house was insight. The nobles Alterian had requested were in the column,
having joined up as they moved east. Alterian pointed out a large unused
pasture close to the house for his encampment to be set up. He knew that the
nobles would vie for position about him but they would be arraigned in a
full encampment leaving the peace of the house to the injured King and his host.

Seth looked all around,"we're here. I'll go announce our arrival to the King
and my wife." Seth dismounted and moved his horse into the stable. The few
servants he had hired were there for food and drink as well as stable
caretakers. "If you wish to dismount my stable caretakers will take good
care of them." Seth moved to the door and opened it."We've arrived. My lady?"

While McCullen moved to the house, matters outside were arranged. Gwilym
knew his duty was to keep things organized and peaceful between the nobles. He
nodded to Master Alterian without a word as he set to the task at hand. His
main concern, though, lie in the safety of the king. He needed to get the
encampment set up fast so he could join Alterian and see as to the status of
the king.

After having sent Sergeant Corwyn to the task of arranging the soldiers
closest to the house, Gwilym set his eyes for the knights of the one God.
Sir Nwython was spotted with the baron. Gwilym bowed from his saddle as he
approached, "Baron, I do not mind as to where you set up, my only cause of concern
would be to your accompanying knights. It is my desire to keep the king
comfortable, and until he has formed opinion of his own as to the knights, I wish them
camped at the perimeter away from the house."

Gwilym turned to Nwython , "I mean you no offense, Sir Nwython, as to your
placement. I task you and your men with the perimeter. I will staff the
watches with the king's soldiers, but I would like your knights to survey the area
for activity, please." Gwilym truly meant no offense, and though he knew he was
in charge, he preferred to make his statement with politeness instead of as an
order.

Nwython nodded without word, his features revealing nothing in the way of
any offense taken. He and Morial began setting up their retinue to one side on
the pasture away from the main force, next to a small grove of trees. Gwilym,
satisfied that the nobles were happy with their stake around the encampment,
moved towards the house. He quickly picked up the pace when he found
Alterian nearing the house's front door so they could enter together. Gwilym was
eager to meet with the king even with the image of his own blade resting upon his
neck fresh in his mind.

Alterian nodded as Gwilym approached. "I am not sure what the state of the
King will be? He could be mortally injured and we could be here to attend his
death bed?" It was clear that Alterian was clearly worried.

"All will be fine, milord. You'll see," Gwilym smiled in an attempt to
comfort Alterian. With each passing day of the journey, Gwilym found a new respect
for Alterian. To see Alterian's compassion for the king only made his respect
stronger.

Alterian smiled. "Aye, that is the way of things, is it not?' Alterian
paused at the door. He knew he should enter but found himself hesitant.

Gwilym led the way to the house where the door still lay open. Gwilym peaked
inside before making a formal announcement. "My Liege, Master Alterian has
arrived with escort to see to your well being." Gwilym then stepped aside to
allow Alterian to enter. He wasn't sure who really heard him but hoped his
words would somehow reach the king.

Hawk was sitting in a private room. The hot bath had done him good. He was
still tired and weak, but better able to hide it. He turned to his sister.
"Sister, please ask them to come in. Not too many at first, just the ones we
can be totally sure off."

Bronwen had heard Seth and hurried to his side just as the Knight stepped
inside. She took her husband's hand, for more with noble company would be
unseemly. "You will find the King down the hall and to your left. He is
expecting you."

Gwilym followed Alterian down the hall to the king's room. The door was open
and he lay in bed. The king was waving his hand for them to come in as he
noticed Alterian. Gwilym followed in and went to one knee while bowing his
head, "My king, I am here to serve. It seems we meet for the second time and
again not under the best of circumstances."

For a moment hawk had to think will this man was, and then it came back to
him. He flushed when he remembered that he had almost killed this man out of
anger and grief. "My lord, I remember I sent you on a mission, how did that go?"
He kept his voice neutral.

"Sire, all went well. The scoundrel behind the abduction of the children was
a weasel from our own court named Urianus. He has been captured and sits in
your dungeon for treason. When time permits once we are at the castle, I can
brief you better," Gwilym rose and looked at the king. He was happy to see that
there appeared to be no serious injuries upon his lord.

" I see." Hawk said. "My lord, could you come back later when I am alone. I
would like to have a word with you."

"As you request. I am happy to see you in good health," Gwilym fell in
behind Alterian.

"Lord Alterian I am glad to see you. How is my family going?"

"All is well at the castle, milord, but you are sorely missed. Your father
is just not the statesman that one would expect." Alterian said with a grin
after bowing to the King. "All are assembled as you requested."

hawk laughed. "Did you expect that? You need my mother for that." His face
darkened. "If she ever recovers enough."

"Actually, I think you will find your mother in much higher spirits when you
return. Along with my head on a plate, for I did not tell her I was
leaving." He admitted.

"That's bad news for you my friend." The king said. "You don't want my
mother for an enemy. But I am very glad to hear that she is doing better, I
need her."

"Ian, who have you brought? Who can I still rely on?"

Alterian went through the list. Of the major nobles, he noted that Earl
Hyfaidd of Cylidd and Earl Madragor of Caerwent were in attendance and could be
trusted. Earl Hyfaidd was a man of similar age to Hawk, who owed the King greatly
from the war with Nethbo, and gave freely of that loyalty in public when
defending the crown. Earl Madragor of Caerwent had also taken a significant risk in
making the journey, considering that he was under some pressure from his
neighbour Earl Rhodri during a time where old disputes had been renewed. Of
the minor nobles apart from Baron Morial of Amans (just south of Caercreden),
there were also the Barons of Suier and Wexford, as well as the Baroness of
Waterford. "I would add," finished Alterian, "that even though it may appear that many
nobles are missing, with such short notice, and taking into account the time
it takes to travel accross Abertawe from some areas, not all who support you could
make it here to meet with you. Earl Moryver of Gwynriod for example, is too ill
to attend."

"That's indeed a very good turnout, Ian. I am glad." Secretly he had been
afraid that none of the old guard would want to follow him. He had not made
a good start. "I promise you that from now on I will be a king." The young
man said. "Now I have heard some rumors, that some of the nobels are not
happy with me. I want to see what we can do about that. Any advice?"

"Nobles are happiest, milord, when they see an advantage to your rule for
them?

You will need to find something each one of them wants and work to secure
it if reasonable. If this is not possible, you need to find what each of them
do not want." Alterian smiled, wondering if the King would understand his last
statement.

Hawk smiled. "I understand, I had good teachers, Ian, and you were one of
them. I want to assure them now that they have a king, and a king that intends
to rule. Then you and I have to sit down, and figure out how we bind everybody to
us. Does that meet with your approval?"

"Aye, and begging forgiveness sire, it is about time." Alterian teased with a
small smile. "Are you well?"

"To be honest, not yet. I will have to take it slow for a little while, so if
you don't mind, Ian, I would like to rest for a little while, soon, and then
you and I can talk this evening in my bedchamber. First I need to talk to Sir Gwilym.
Oh, before I for get, we need to do something about my sister's husband. He
needs a title."

"I have already seen to that, your highness. It turns out that is mentor was
heir to a barony. He in turn had named young McCullen his successor."
Alterian said with a smile.

"Very well, thank you Ian. You see, I need you. Now give me a few hours, and
then we will talk. I will greet the nobles briefly now, and then i will rest
for a couple of hours."

"As you request, your majesty. I will fetch them." Alterian bowed and
withdrew, leaving Gwilym and the King to speak.

---

Baron Seth McCullen
Lord Alterian

Seth needed to speak with Alteiran alone and saw an opportunity to do so and took it. he walked up beside him."Pardon me lord Alterian, but may I have a word with you in private?"

Of course lad, come walk wtih me." Alterian was strolling across the property. "This is a well kept estate albeit small." Alterian complimented.

"Thank you. I have done my best to keep it in the best of conditions. Especially since I was wed. I did not want this house looking like a dungeon compared to the palace." he paused."I have something that I thought about after you told me that I inherited a baronship. Do not mistake my question for ungreatfulness, but doesn't the timing of this discovery seem alittle well timed for everyone. It was after, not before I was married and after I had been through so many hardships due to sanglett. I am just wondering if this is coincidence or was it something else?"

Alterian smiled. The lad was not dense, this was clear. "Does it really matter lad? I mean, you can now offer the princess what you had only dreamed of being able to offer. Can you really see her being content here for the rest of her life? In truth?"

Seth shook his head."No I can't. It is true that now I can take care of her much more than ever possible. Tell me truthfully, was the will really left by my old mentor?" He didn't like to think he would be living a lie ,at least he;d know the truth.

"Son, the lands have been legally and rightfully passed on to you. On this I swear by my life and honor." Alterian replied carefully.

Seth nodded as a smile broke onto his face."Thank you Lord Alterian. I had to make sure for my own reasons. i am sure you can understand this?" Seth was glad everything was alright.

"Of course lad. It shows integrity and will please the King that you were concerned. Now, shouldn't you be seeing to that bride of yours?" He asked with a smile.

Seth smiled."Most definately. Thank you for all that you've done. I will be seeing you around, no doubt." Seth nodded to him as he went off in search of Bronwen.

Alterian let out a sigh of relief. The lad had nearly cornered him and it was only the grace of small truths that he had escaped telling a lie. He watched him go. The lad was truly going to be handful.

---

The Beautiful Baroness

Gwilym ap Gavin - Knight of Justice

Baroness Dwynwen - NPC

Gwiylm watched the room as the nobles began to mingle with one another as they left. He noted the Baroness again in the back of the room still with a slight look of shock from what had occurred. Remembering her comment about the harvest, Gwilym decided to seek a bit of information. Maybe he could speak with the king on the issue when they were alone and in conversation again. A bit hesitant at first, Gwilym straightened up and approached The Baroness.

"Milady, I do not think I have had the honor of making your acquaintance," he said as he bowed. "I am Sir Gwilym ap Gavin, Knight of Justice."

"And Duke of Glen Farr." The lady held out her hand with a soft gentle smile. "Well met, milord." The lady had hair the color of burnished oak, shot with fleeting glimpses of gold. She could not yet be thirty summers. Her eyes were a soft brown, much like a doe's but there was the glimmer of one who missed little about her. "I am the Baroness of Waterford, my name is D! wynwen."

Gwilym tenderly clasped her hand in his and placed it to his lips, "Once upon a time, I was that, Milady. Your resources are correct, but it is hard to be a Duke to a slaughtered town." Gwilym smiled the whole while so as to give no offense by his comment. He also noted that her skin tasted like honey and realized how long it had been since he held that taste in his mouth ...since his wife had died.

"Town's rebuild milord, as do shires. People come together in adversity in ways that often amaze me." She gently pulled her hand out of his as she smiled at him. "You might be surprised what you would find there could you brave it to look?" Her words held no censure, just gentle wisdom.

"Aye, Milady, if I were brave enough. I have not yet found the courage to face my past. One day, yes, but that days has not yet come and instead finds me here in your company." Gwilym flashed a smile. "I have actually come to hear what you have to say about the harve! st including any thoughts as to how to handle them. I wish to run all the information by the king and see in what way we can help."

"If you would care to walk me to my pavilion, I would gladly share my ideas with you?" She offered with a soft, gentle smile.

"T'would be my pleasure Lady Dwynwen," Gwilym said and escorted her to the door and outside.

"I have an idea that might help with the harvest but it would require the cooperation of different holdings. If we band together those that could bring in the harvests and move them about in bands, I think we could get most of the harvests in before they fall to fallow?" She looked at him with some concern. Her idea was not unique but hadn't been used in some time and she was a woman.

Gwilym listened to her and observed the seriousness in her eyes. He could tell that she truly believed this could work. Gwilym had no understanding of harvests or any other kind of farming for that matter, so he relied on her demeanor towards the situation. She was heartfelt about the harvest and the people and that was enough for Gwilym to decide to help.! "Milady, I afraid I don't understand harvests for I spent my whole life being trained as a knight by my father, but I do believe what you tell me by the compassion in your voice and body language. I will relay this information to the king. When it is your turn to speak with him, the king will have had enough time to ponder your proposal. I am hoping that this will save that much more time in order to begin your endeavor because most proposals will be thought about on the trip back to Alban then discussed in court. I hope to save you possibly a week's time. I believe he'll leave you in charge of the operation since it was your idea."

She looked up a little fearful. "Me in charge? Oh, that would not sit well. I am already dealing with disgruntled Lords on two fronts, to have a woman in charge of helping bring in their harvests would not do?"

"Lady Dwynwen, I am not sure what aid I could provide, but if the king does place you in charge, I extend my services to you." Gwilym could not help but got lost in her soft brown eyes. After a moment, he closed his eyes to refocus feeling as if he had just disrespected his wife.

"That is quite gallant of you, milord. It is hard enough being at odds between Lord Rhodri and Lord Madragor. I cannot think what chaos would be caused were they to answer to me for their harvests?" She smiled up at him and then glanced quickly away. They were nearing her pavilion. "I thank you for your offer to speak to the King on my behalf."

Gwilym bowed, "Lady Dwynwen, it has been my pleasure and I look forward to our next conversation say ... after I speak with the king. Possibly after tomorrow's eve?" Gwilym found himself mildly intoxicated by this woman. He would have to speak with Alterian or even the king and learn more about her.

"It would be my pleasure, milord. Perhaps you would care to sup with me then?" She invited and blushed a little as she met his eyes with her own.

Gwilym felt the butterflies flutter in his stomach. "A lovely offer and I graciously accept," he replied after a feeble attempt to regain his composure. "I look forward to our meeting and wish you a good day." Gwilym turned to leave, a bit dumbfounded from the whole ordeal, but quickly realized his place and turned back around, "That is, milady, if we are done and you would but dismiss of me." Gwilym then bowed again.

The Baroness smiled, "of course, milord. I am sure you have much to do." She gave him a quick curtsey and entered her pavilion.

Gwilym watched her enter then walked away in a daze. Feeling swept up in the moment, Gwilym wondered if he had made a mistake. Oh, there was no mistaking the beauty of this delicate creature, but he wasn't sure if he acted out of Impulse or compassion. His mind wondered to those few short days of glory he held with his wife. As he wondered if he was betraying her, he also wondered if it could feel like that with another.

Confused, Gwilym headed back to the house to check up on the king. Once inside, a servant of King Hawk told him that the king requested his presence to stand as a guard while the king held audience with individual nobles. Quickly forgetting his own issues, Gwilym focused on his responsibilities and headed to the king's room.

---

"Aid From A Noble"

Niall ap Drystan - Giant
Iowerth ap Greidawl - Lord
Arianna ui Llewellyn - Knight

Niall rode the perimeter of his territory and thought long and hard on what
to do. He felt slightly betrayed by Arianna because he hated having anything
to do with nobility. Yet, he knew that she was only trying to help with the
children and that seeking the aid from this nobleman, Iowerth, was a natural
thing for her to do.

"Damn!" He said out loud. Realizing that riding away was probably a stupid
thing to do. Now he was going to have to apologize for his rash behavior,
and he hated having to do things like this to nobles. He also hated having
to accept aid from nobility, but once they put their paws in it, there was
no way to get them out. Niall was going to have to accept that. Niall also
knew that nobles only did things like this to better themselves. They never
did it purely out of compassion for the lower class citizens. Nobility
considered themselves above that. Niall didn't know how to do it, but he was
not going to let his home become a front for some kind of political agenda.

Niall finished his thinking and rode back to where Iowerth, Arianna, and the
children were. He rode in slow and knew that everyone could see him. He
paused about ten feet from Iowerth and dismounted. Niall walked over to him
and bowed, "Please forgive my rudeness for running off, but I am slow and
cannot think fast in times of confusion. I also ask that you forgive me for
not knowing who you are. I am afraid that I am new and don't know the names
or faces of the local nobles. Most of my time, in the few months that I have
been here, was spent at The Swan which is where I lived before coming into
ownership of this land."

"No problem, I completely understand." Iorwerth said. "Sometimes I wish I
could run away from court. I hate politics, It is so dishonest. I prefer to
be out with my soldiers in the field, or just working with my hands." He
gestured towards the new buildings going up. "You have quite a place here.
You and those kids deserve some help, and I hope I have not offended you by
offering it. My wife and I would really like to help Anyway we can."

Niall stood there in shock for a moment. He wasn't the brightest of
individuals, but he had good intuition. If Niall's mind was in its right
frame of mind, he actually believed Iowerth. 'I must be tired from my ride'
he thought to himself. None the less, Niall needed help. He didn't see how
he was going to do this alone. 'Milord, I thank you and your wife for her
help and graciously accept. I need help in getting supplies at a good price,
first. I feel like I could build the majority of it myself, but an extra
strong arm or two wouldn't hurt. I also need help with all of these
children. It was a lot of work to take care of them and school them when
there were two priests. I don't believe Father Paul can do it all alone now
that Father John has passed on from the fire. The priest will also need
teaching supplies. I am buying my food supplies from the same vendor as The
Swan. I have also worked out a deal with a clothier to clothe the children.
I fronted him half of the payment and my second half will come in the form
of a guard dog from my first litter," Niall looked over towards Koda and
Kain, his rottweilers.

"That is what my business is going to be all about. I will breed and train
hunting and guard dogs, as well as horses and hawks. I seem to hold an
unusual talent animals. My trainers told me it was the gods ways of making
up for my slowness." Niall finished with a smile. There was something about
this Iowerth person that put him at ease. Niall wasn't sure if it has
something to do with his warrior stature that reminded him so much of his
days with the mercenaries. In any case, Niall felt pleased to actually find
a small amount of comfort in a nobleman. Something else that made him feel
as if living in Alban was the right choice. He knew he still needed to speak
with Arianna and apologize for his actions.

"I hope you will accept money as well as my labor. I have a position in the
army that requires a lot of my attention." He looked at Arianna. "Besides I
promised to train this young lady. But in what spare time I have, I am more
than willing to help out. And I will ask my boy to do the same. It will be
good for the lad to get away from court life once in a while, and he likes
children." The general said.

Niall stood a bit confused for a moment. He had no idea who this man was
other than another noble of some kind, so as far as receiving aid from his
son, it didn't make no nevermind to Niall as to who's hands held the hammer.
He did let out a little chuckle as to his training of Arianna. Niall could
tell that Arianna was a good combatant from the way she stood and carried
herself. She seemed very agile. Niall had met quite a few warrior women
during his time with the mercenaries.

"About those animals you train, I would like to see them one day. I do a
fair bit of hunting myself, and I could use some more well trained animals."

Niall smiled, "my dogs are the best and I'd be willing to guarantee that.
Koda and Kain have sniffed and flushed plenty of deer in their time. As for
the hawks," Niall turned to Spirit who was sitting on her saddle perch on
Whisper's back. Niall gave out a strange series of whistles that sent spirit
into the air and circling the sky. "I sure hope you like rabbit."

"I like hawks." Iorwerth said admiring. "So much, that I named my first son
Hawk, to the delight of my wife. Are you free to go hunting one of these
days, so you can show me what these animals can do." He turned to Arianna.
"It's high time anyway that I taught you about the hunt."

Arianna held a bit of anticipation. "I love to hunt. I am a damn good shot
with the bow, and I've never had a chance to show you."

Niall stood as a proud father would at the mentioning of hawks and dogs. He
knew his friends were the best. Just ask him and he'd tell you. "I am sure
we could squeeze some time in as a break from building. I would be happy to
show you what my friends could do." As Niall finished his sentence, Spirit
swooped at the ground by Niall's feet, dropped the freshly caught rabbit,
and went back to rest on the saddle perch on Whisper's back. Niall looked
down at the rabbit and smiled at Iowerth.

"let's set a date. Would sunday be good for you?" Iorwerth asked. "I will be
back before than with money." He looked at the children. "Maybe a few of the
older ones could work at the castle. We always need new people, and they
could learn a profession that way. And some of the little ones could come
over and play with my daughter, if you don't mind. She always complains that
she has to few companions."

Niall nodded in agreement, "I would enjoy some hunting come Sunday, besides
it would be a due time anyway as our food will be getting low by then. I
have been hunting the deer in the area to feed the children in order to keep
costs down. Hayworth, over there," Niall pointed to a boy who looked to be
in his early teens, "is a pretty good shot with a bow."

Father Paul had wondered up to join in on the conversation. Hearing the
mention of the children possibly working in the castle, he spoke up, "I
think it would be an excellent idea to put some of these children to choir.
My only rule I will place on those children capable is that their school
work is finished as well as there responsibilities here."

"Of course" the general said, " schooling comes first." He looked over at
Arianna. "It's time I get back, do you want to stay awhile?"

"Yes, Milord, there are a few things I need to take care of here before I
head back. I'll meet you on the practice grounds in a bit?" Arianna said
with a smile.

"That's fine." Iorwerth said goodbye to the priest and the children, then he
left.

---

 

The Arllech Gospels (Part 2): Suspect's aloft...
Pwyll ap Llywarch - Outlander
Wynn - npc

"Psssst! Pwyll..."

The outlander was startled by the loud whisper, but not truly surprised. He had heard someone moving about in the hayloft above him, but assumed it was only Pic, preparing his bed for the night. However, neither the voice or the face peering down from above were Pic's.

Pwyll glanced about to make sure he was alone before responding. "Wynn! What the hell are you doing here?" he said in an equally loud whisper as he quickly climbed into the loft. Before him crouched a gaunt and obviously worried young man. Wynn was Pwyll's eyes and ears in the house of the late Hwfa ap Morfylskinith, former head of the draper's guild. His being here, in the small barn behind the Swan, was totally outside of their usual meeting practices, and Pwyll was clearly upset.

"Please Master Pwyll," the boy began in a pleading voice, "I've nowhere to turn an' if'n they catch me I'll hang!"

"What in the gods' names are you talking about boy?" Pwyll asked.

"They say I've murdered Hwfa! They found some of his things under me cot! If I didn't run they'd nab me in the mornin'," the boy spit out. It was clear he was on the verge of hysteria.

Without first calming him, Pwyll knew he would learn nothing from the nervous young man. He passed Wynn a skin from his shoulder and made him sit quietly for a few dozen heartbeats. When the boy's breathing became less labored, Pwyll began his questioning. "First off, did you kill the auld bastard?"

Wynn blanched. "No. No! I had no quarrel with the guildmaster. Sure he beat me the same's everyone in the house, but 'tweren't nothing unusual 'bout that. I didn't like him, but I wouldn't ha' killed him."

"Good," grunted Pwyll in response. He knew that the boy probably wasn't physically able to kill Hwfa, but it didn't hurt to ask. "What things did they find under your bed? Did you know anything about them?"

Wynn averted his eyes. "Well. Some of the stuff I had... um, borrowed from the Master, but most of it I'd never seen before--gold, jewelry, papers."

Pwyll looked hard at the youth. The act of theft wasn't a grave crime amongst his people, but here in the city it carried the price of flogging or hanging--theft or murder, the results would probably be the same for the boy. Pwyll thought it rather ironic that these townsfolk were the same people that called outlanders barbaric.

"Och! Ya bloody fool. The first rule is to move the goods. The longer they stay in your hands the greater the risk. I suppose there's nothing for it but to get you out of town. You'll go out in the next shipment of barrels. In the mean time stay in the loft. I'll have Pic bring you food." Pwyll stood as he said this and prepared to leave.

"Thankye master Pwyll. Thankye!" the boy almost sobbed out.

"Dinnae think on it lad. You've still a long life ahead of you. No sense wastin' it dancing a jig in the air."

As Pwyll exited walked across the small courtyard towards the rear of the Swan, he mulled over what the boy had told him. The murder had been talked about throughout the town for some weeks now. The guildmaster's untimely demise had done little good for the draper's guild, but it looked as though Hwfa's beautiful young wife, Alene, had managed to pull things back together. 'Perhaps it's time to pay a visit the young widow and make sure she continues to honor her late husband's business arrangements,' Pwyll thought as he entered the Swan. 'Might also be a good time to see if the lady needs any... comforting.' Pwyll grinned to himself as he ordered up a bath and a razor.

----------

Pwyll ap Llywarch
"Fi erioed cyffyrddedig chwrw gwnawn mo cara."
I never met an ale I didn't like

---

 

"An Apology"

Niall ap Drystan - Giant
Arianna ui Llewellyn - Knight

Arianna watched Iowerth leave before she turned to face Niall. He looked at
her but said nothing. Arianna could remember the pain in his face when Niall
had realized Iowerth was a nobleman. The vision made her eyes water. "Niall,
I have no excuse for what I have done. I know your fear of nobles, and I
betrayed you by seeking one's help without your knowledge. I am terribly
sorry."

Niall looked at her for a moment. The water building up in her eyes made him
think of crying but he instead gave a small chuckle, "Lady Arianna, there is
no need to apologize. I am the fool for thinking all nobles are like my
father. Alban has been nothing like the life I have lived so far. It has
been kind, intriguing, and beneficial to me, so why should the nobles not
surprise me as well through genuine acts of kindness."

Niall paused and watched the tears dry away from her eyes as Arianna began
to smile. He continued, "You did nothing that I should not have expected.
You sought aid from your friends, and your friends happen to be nobles.
Besides, this could end up being the beginning of my business venture with
the other nobility. I might as well learn to speak with them now or I'll
never sell one animal." Again Niall began to chuckle.

Arianna smiled up at Niall, "I thought for sure you would be mad at me and
never want to speak to me again. What changed your mind?"

"Well, I am simple minded and could not for the life of me figure out how I
was going to accomplish all of this without help. I may not trust nobles,
but they are educated and smart at handling things like this. I just figured
if you trusted him enough to help out then I should too." Niall turned to
begin walking down to the children.

"Niall," Arianna said causing the giant man to pause and face her again.
Without saying another word Arianna jumped up and gave him a hug then kissed
his cheek.

Niall stumbled back for a moment never once having had this kind of reaction
before. This did nothing but make Arianna giggle which in turn made the
giant man turn beet red in the face.

"Umm, thanks," were the only words Niall managed to mumble out.

Arianna began laughing harder, "Niall, we must find you a woman so that you
can stop being so innocent. A woman who will treat you right and give you
children of your own."

Niall just shrugged his shoulders, "Good Luck with that one!" He muttered.
"I gave up that search a long time ago. I'm not exactly a lady's man, you
know."

"None the less, the gods ensure us that we are not meant to be alone."
Arianna was playful but serious.

"Well, I'm not exactly alone. I do have good friends who surround me," Niall
began to fidget.

Arianna smacked him on the shoulder, "you know what I mean you giant rock!
Give me some time. I'll bet I can dig someone up."

"Enjoy the search. Now, can we get back tot he children." Niall was
obviously flustered from the conversation and ready to change the topic.

"You go on ahead, Niall. I have to get to my practice session. I'll see you
on Sunday for the hunt. I'll wager you on who has the best shot. Loser cooks
dinner!"

Niall laughed, "It's a bet. You'd better bring your apron!" Niall didn't
pause for the reaction. He began running back to camp.

"Get out of here," Arianna yelled as she began to chase him a few steps
before stopping and watching him run into camp like a mad charging bull.
Arianna got up on her horse and headed back for the castle

---

"Laying down the rules"

- Rowena
- Fagan the Ovate (npc)
- Lady Isa

**********

Rowena was playing in the garden. It was a cloudly day and the wind blew chill.
She didn't care, she loved the feel of it in her hair. She knew it was most likely

more windy outside the walls, but she still felt a small amount of the
wilderness in the wind.

"Good morning little one," interrupted the ovate. "How fares the Princess
today? Are we seeing any better?"

Rowena looked up in surprise, she had not heard him approach. "Yes, I do.
Thank you so very much. But, you had better leave, mama is unhappy with you?"

"Really?" replied Fagan. "What have I done to earn her displeasure?"

"She said you wasn't supposed to come near me till she said so?" Rowena

said with the simplicity of a child.

"Well..." Fagan had a thoughtful expression on his face. "It is good then that she

has told you this, for I have been told nothing about it. I tell you what, I will go and

see the Queen mother and hear what she has decreed with regards to this." He

nodded to himself as if reaffirming his course of action.

"Do you wish me to come too?" She asked putting her toys aside.

"Perhaps it would best if you did not. For if you were with me when I speak with

her, that would only serve to raise her ire."

"This is true, I guess. She seems easily raised lately, but I think it is because

everyone is gone. Before you go, can I ask you a question?" She inquired

solemnly.

"Certainly," said Fagan. He squatted down onto his haunches so that he was at
eye level with the young Princess. "What is it you wish to ask?"

"Is a seer always right in what they see?" She asked carefully.

Fagan was quiet for a long time, mulling over the answer he should give her.
"Yes... and no," he finally said. He added a grin to his serious expression as
Rowena frowned at his answer. "What you see always has some meaning and
significance to the future... it is being able to interpret those images... that is

the challenge, and the hardest part of being a seer. Often you might see

something, and be convinced it means one thing, and then you are surprised
later when it turns out to be something completely different, but linked in a
subtle way that makes sense with the blessing of hindsight." He paused,
uncertain that she would understand at such a young age.

"So.. sometimes what a seer sees can mean something other then what it looks
like. Like a costume ball, it has a mask on it?" She was struggling but she
had to know.

"Mmmm... close enough," agreed Fagan. "It's like if you had a vision of Hawk's
crown. On one hand it's just a piece of jewellery that he wears on his head,
made of precious metal and gemstones. But on the other hand, it is a symbol
of the authority of the royal family and the power that they bear. And unless
you look closely at the detail, you may miss the fact that the crown you are
looking at may not even be Hawk's crown at all, but that of another. For how
the crown is decorated and constructed indicates the rank of the noble who
wears it. It all sounds confusing, does it not? And I am not even mentioning
that you may have normal dreams or nightmares which you may confuse with
your visions. Particularly if you are worried or anxious about something."

His expression softened and he abruptly clapped his hands together twice, as

if ending the line of discussion. "It is a skill you will learn to refine and

understand better with experience. The first thing you should do when you next

undergo one of these visions is to concentrate on every fine piece of detail.

Pay attention to the smaller pieces and the larger pictures will come together

with time. When you wake up or the vision ends, contemplate what you have

just seen. With your head," he said, tapping the side of his skull. "You may be

fearful or scared in the aftermath, but put your feelings aside and look for the

hidden meanings. And be patient, for there are usually more meanings than

just one."

She nodded. "I understand. You had best go speak with Mama." She said
solemnly. "Or you will not be my teacher? I think that would make me sad?"

"There will always be sadness, child. Balance it with joy and it all evens out."

He got to his feet and planted the end of his staff on the floor. "I will be back

little one." Then he winked at her and left.

Rowena watched him go thoughtfully. She picked up her dolls and headed

back into the castle. She had details to consider. She hoped mama wouldn't
yell too much.

******

Isa was in her study, going over documents. She had a lot of catching up to
do.

"Milady," interrupted a servant. "The druid Fagan wishes to speak with you."

"Send him in." Isa said. At one time she had been furious with the man, but
he had given her daughter a Medicine that seemed to help, so right now she
didn't really know how she felt about him.

Fagan entered the Queen Mother's chamber and bowed as gracefully as his leg
would allow. "My lady."

"My lord druid." She said, but did not get up. "Let me come straight to the
point. You went against my wishes, and talked to my daughter before you had
been given permission, why?"

"With all due respect, I had not been made aware of your wishes with regards
to your daughter. If I am wrong in this matter, then of course you have my
sincerest apologies."

"Someone should have told you." She still did not trust him completely. "But I

am grateful for what you did for her. Her eyes are much better. So I will allow

you to see her for now. It must be in the castle, or the enclosed Castle

gardens, and there must be guards present. My husband and I are taking no

chances with her safety."

"That would be suitable." Fagan's words agreed, but inwardly he cringed.

The smell of the castle, it's inhabitants and the confines of it's walls, all of
it grated on his being. The garden was barely tolerable, so that would have

to be where he would spend most of his time. Outwardly, he gave nothing

away of his discomfort. "May I ask a question of you, your highness?"

"Of course, feel free." Isa knew she had to get to know this man better,
because if he was to be trusted, he would be good for Her little girl.

"What are your desires for the child? Her future?"

"That is a difficult question." She smiled. "I want my children to be happy.

And that is not easy. That is why my husband and I are allowing you to teach

our daughter. But you must remember that she is also a princess, and

therefore her destiny is not hers alone. At a later age, she might have to do

some things that benefit the kingdom."

"And if she chooses to serve the Goddess as a Lady of the Forest?" Here
was the true test.

Isa was quiet for a little while. "I don't know." She said honestly. "And I
cannot make that decision, that will be up to her brother and her father. I
think they will let her do what she wants. They are that kind of man, but I
cannot guarantee it." She smiled." My marriage was one of alliance, I was
very lucky to love my husband, but I was ordered to marry him by my father."

Fagan seemed satisfied with the answer. "She is indeed at a young age

where those sort of decisions are difficult to make. Is there anything else

you wished to discuss, your highness?"

"Now I don't think so. Just remember to be very careful with her safety."

The queen mother said.

Fagan bowed and left the room. There is a difference between

protecting her safety and stifling her spirit, thought the ovate. And

the raven already knows where to look to find her seer...

---

 

"Twisting One's Thoughts"

- Sir Amlyn

- Angaran (npc)

- Morgan's twins (npc)

**********

Days passed. They then stretched into a week, as the small group of people found

themselves back in Abertawe without incident, and nearing the manse in which the

Raven had built her nest. Messengers from the Sect, alert for their presence, had

informed them of it's location, and taken word back to Morgan of their impending

arrival.

Angaran had tried on several occasions to speak to Amlyn. But on each attempt she

received nothing but short, curt answers and long silences. He seemed content to

stew in his own world, facing each day with strict routine and an emotionless outlook.

Perhaps it was some sort of struggle, she thought. If so, it was a fight he was

unwilling to share with others.

He barely acknowledged the two little boys. Edhan in particular seemed content to

ignore him, being the more lively and playful of the two. Yet Dyvadd would stare at

him from time to time, the same gaze that he had first fixed Amlyn with at the castle

in Ruthin. Amlyn would pretend most times not to notice, but it was clear that he

was uncomfortable with the attention at best.

On the last night camping out from Lady Morgan's estate, Angaran made both boys

ready for bed. They slept amidst cushions and soft blankets rolled out into the back

of the cart. A tarpaulin was then draped over the sides, and a pole used to create a

roof so that there was protection from the wind and elements. As she fussed over

them, wiping the day's dirt from their faces before bed, she became aware that

someone was standing next to her. Deliberately ignoring him, she continued on with

her work, finally tidying them up.

When she had finished, Amlyn stepped forward and dropped the locket out of his

hand, letting it dangle by the chain. Then he reached out to Dyvadd and gently

draped it over his head. "Keep this safe, Dyvadd. For your mother." He closed the

tiny nightshirt softly around his neck, a subconscious gesture that may have been

intended to keep the little one warm.

Dyvadd said nothing but clapsed the locket in his grubby hands. He watched the

large knight with wide open eyes, unwilling to look away.

"He finds you quite interesting, milord," said Angaran by way of casual comment.

"He finds me as interesting as any other grown adult," replied Amlyn to his defense.

"I meant no disrespect-"

"None taken," said Amlyn abruptly. Then, in a softer tone, he said, "My apologies. I

have been somewhat... neglect in my behaviour."

Angaran nodded without saying anything as Amlyn retired to the small fire to eat the

last of his meal. She soon joined him, making sure first that the two squirming little

bodies had settled down sufficiently to see some sleep.

"Do you hail from Dinodig?" asked Amlyn quietly.

"Aye, milord. I used to serve the Church as a midwife. Now I am more a nanny and

a matron than anything else-"

"Tell me about this Church."

Angaran looked at him to try and figure out what he was thinking, but she couldn't

get past the stoney mask he wore. "Well... it is a following of the One God, probably

the largest in Cei Nwydd, although it's foundation lies over the seas to the west.

Dinodig - and Llydaw - have been at peace ever since they came to influence-"

"Power." corrected Amlyn abruptly.

Angaran just nodded, not wishing to argue. "-since they came to... power. The

scriptures speak of a single god, the creator, who made us and everything in the

world as we see it today. He watches over us even now, and we honour him by

following his commandments and always trying to do good in the world in his name."

"... Who controls Dinodig now that the King is dead." It was a question he didn't

really want to ask.

"Well, I don't know milord." With an uncomfortable look, she tried to dodge the

question. "Whoever King Guaire had made as heir."

Amlyn was silent for another length of time. "I think you know more than you're

willing to say," said Amlyn coldly.

"I know very little, milord," she protested with a nervous laugh. She gripped her

arthritic hand tightly in her lap. "I am just a nursemaid after all."

Amlyn thought for a moment to intimidate her further, but he felt that if she *did*

know anything else, it would not be much more than what she had already told

him during the journey. He may be mistaken, but he would live with that decision

for now.

He had only begun to question Angaran about the Church of the Tau, but the

memories of the events in Ruthin took the edge off his desire to know. Damn

the Church. Once he had delivered Morgan's twins, he would take care of

Nwython or die trying. Either result was good enough. "Go to bed," he ordered.

Offered escape, Angaran took it. "Goodnight, milord," she said bowing, quickly

moving away from the fire. Amlyn stayed by it's edge much longer into the

night, thinking dark thoughts of vindication and revenge

---

The First Shipments Arrive
Syngen Arglwydd - Ex pirate captain turned Entrepreneur
Gareth - NPC/Right hand man for Corsican

Syngen stood on the docks as the sun began to rise. A breeze rolled across
the ground as Syngen stared across the water at, what he felt was a
beautiful sight. Three schooners, long and sleek, sailed towards the peer
with his own flag unfurled on their masts. They had finished production
finally on his first ships of his fleet and had already made stops along the
way to bring in his first shipments for sale. The new crew of dockworkers he
had hired, some of them right under Corsicans very own nose, began gathering
around him as the morning sun slowly rose in the distance.

Syngen had been very proud of himself as of late. Corsican's shipyards were
reporting piracy throughout his fleet and a few of his crewmen had left his
place of work for a safer environment. Rumors were also spreading of money
loss through out the last month. Syngen's plan was running right on track.

…. The noon time hour had the docks filled with excitement as the men
continued to unload the sailing vessels. Vendors lined the backside of the
docks with freshly made breads and meats to sell to the tired and hungry
workers. Moira was seen dancing around the eating men with free pitchers of
ale compliments of the new boss, Syngen, and men from all around greeted him
as if his was their best friend. Syngen stood on the ramp to one of his
vessels, The Swiftness, eating a piece of meat from a stick and enjoying a
mug of ale when he noticed a large gathering of people moving his way. 'It
was about time' he thought to him self as he jumped onto the docks just as
Gareth and the mob arrived.

"I see you've got yerself quite a little party here, Syngen," spit out
Gareth. There were roughly twenty men with him, and they were all armed with
short swords or knives.

Syngen just chuckled, "You figured you just drop in unannounced … since you
weren't invited."

"I am the dockmaster of this city. I have every right!" Gareth replied with
an evil eye.

"Actually," Syngen said cutting him off, "you are the dockmaster of the city
docks. I own this area and it is private property in which you are
trespassing."

"Men, get that arrogant bastard would you," screamed Gareth and the twenty
men with him drew their blades. This brought retaliation from all the men on
the docks as they drew their knives as well. Syngen just smiled and clapped
at the display of so many blades.

"Men, stand down. There will be no bloodshed today. We are in the shipping
business not the funeral business," Syngen said out loud to the laughter of
his men. Syngen slowly walked up towards Gareth as Syngen's employees
sheathed their blades.

Gareth had not expected loyalty so soon from the men working for Syngen. It
caught him off guard a little bit. This typically brought out the worst in
Gareth for his diplomatic skills ranged from little to none. Anger flashed
in his eyes as Syngen neared him, and he raised his blade to strike. That is
when a whistle blew in the background.

Gareth came to a halt and turned in the direction of the whistles. Out of no
where fifty of the city's militia surrounded the docks. "Gentleman, I am
Sergeant Halas, and though you guys may be the dockyards, I am the law!"
Halas said. "Now I suggest you break up this little gathering before I start
making some arrests."

Gareth's nostrils flared bright red and could have spat out flame from his
anger. "This is the last friendly meeting you and I will have, Syngen,"
Gareth muttered loud enough for only Syngen to hear. "The next time we meet,
I will kill you." Gareth then took a step away from Syngen.

"Let's go men. Our conversation here is over." Gareth then turned and walked
away with his men on his heels as well as half of the Militia acting as an
escort.

Syngen chuckled at the whole escapade. 'That was way to easy' he thought as
he walked over to Sgt. Halas. Syngen pulled out a small sack and handed it
to the Sergeant which jingled like coins would when it hit his hand.

"Thanks," was all the sergeant said as he looked in the bag, smiled, and
walked away.

Hopefully, this little incident would finally draw out Corsican and get rid
of this idiot flunky, Gareth. Syngen was getting bored with toying with the
man.

---

"On Display"
- Lady Arianna
- General Iowerth
- Earl Moryver (npc)

**********

Loyalty is strong, but the vows of revenge are stronger. So, Earl Moryver
had to choose. Between loyalty to the new King, and the blood of his
murdered daughter. Alterian's summons to attend a meeting with the King had
come a day after he had received a message from Bromlin: his granddaughter
was alive and well, and living in Alban. And she pursued what could only be
a righteous course of action, in avenging the death of Veralyn by slaying
Llewellyn, her husband and murderer. He had no choice but to go to her aid,
and help in any way that he could.

But his condemnation of Llewellyn had been public and bitter. He would risk
much in being seen around court with the young woman and outwardly pursuing
her cause (and hence his). It would also be seen as an act of manipulation
when the intent of Arianna became known, and everyone knew it was hardly
tasteful to be seen using a woman to extract a payment of revenge. So he had
to be careful. Discreet. What he would do and how he would help would
require careful planning and the utmost care. And thankfully, Bromlin had
provided a solution, one that was elegant and meshed well with what she was
already doing.

Moryver needed a woman to marry his... nephew. He couldn't quite remember
what his name was, but it didn't matter. Arianna was "available", so Bromlin
had told him, and Lord Iowerth was busy looking for a man to wed her to.
Hence, it would give him an excuse to get to know her better, and aide her
with the outward appearance of bringing her 'up to scratch', so to speak.
When the time was appropriate, he could give as much assistance as was
necessary to get the job done.

Gwynriod was about six days ride from the capital, which made sending a
force of soldiers for Alterian impractical. His own retinue in Alban was
small, and instead of committing himself to the request, he spared what
knights he could (three in total) and reported an illness that restricted
him from the rigors of overland travel. He was getting closer to the
twilight of his life anyhow, so he did not think that the chamberlain would
begrudge him his request to remain in Alban.

Instead, he found himself seeking out Iowerth, intent on making the first
step in meeting Arianna. He hoped to heaven that she didn't look like
Veralyn, for it would probably be too overwhelming. It didn't take very long
to track down the General.

"IOWERTH!" he bellowed in his rough yet identifiable tone of crankiness that
hid a sliver of jest. "Thou still h