Isa
Rowena
Isa went back to the kitchens were she busied herself pretty soon. But once in a while when nobody was looking, she had to pink away a tear. She had truely hoped to have Rowena with her just a little while longer. Only Wyn's joy could have persuaded her to give the little girl away. But Isa knew she would miss her when Lorwerth and she moved back to their own castle for the spring.
Rowena skipped into the kitchen in search of a treat and hopefully her mother. Seeing her mother, she ran to her and hugged her. "I have been looking for you. I thought maybe we could embroider some." Rowena made a small face at this but felt her mother must find it enjoyable for she kept after Rowena to learn her stitches. She wanted to do something that she knew her mother would enjoy. She was pretty sure that catching fish was not a choice her mother would agree too.
Isa knew how much her daughter hated to sew and she was touched by her sweet gesture. She smiled and patted the girl's hair. "Why don't we take my horse and your pony and go for a little ride. I think you would like that a lot more, right?" Rowena was not yet allowed to take her pony out alone and was always badgering the busy adults to go riding with her.
"Can we?" Rowena's eyes lit with excitement. "Can we take a lunch and picnic by the stream?" Rowena loved picnics almost as much as riding. Rowena immediately started listing all the things they could see and do while out on their ride. Finally, she hushed enough for her mother to get a word in.
"Yes dear. We can take a picnic basket. Now why don't you organize it and I organize the horses and I meet you at the stables in half an hour." The girl was now old enough to start learning little things like that.
Rowena's eyes were large as she nodded her excitement. She would get to arrange the picnic basket. She quickly hugged her mother and then took off to change into her riding clothes. She was back down in the kitchen in less then 15 minutes. She followed the cook around looking most official. She made sure that a proper cloth was found and put in the basket. Cook added chicken and meat pies. Rowena eyed the large muffins cooling on the window sill and the cook chuckling added them as well. Fresh Fruit and Bread was added at Rowena's insistence.
Soon the picnic basket was quite full and Rowena realized that she was unable to lift it. She turned imperiously to the kitchen lad. "Boy, carry my basket to the stables." She did not wait to see if he did as she ordered, after all, she was a princess so he had too. The cook nodded to the boy and he soon struggled behind her with the basket for he was not much bigger than she was. She arrived at the stables looking quite pleased with herself.
Isa looked from her daughter to the basket and hid a smile. "Isn't that a bit much for two persons?" She said. "Now how did you go about in your selection?"
Rowena looked at the basket and back to her mother. "I chose things we like to eat and then made sure there was fruit and bread to go with it and Cider to drink with it." Rowena realized the basket was indeed a little full. "I should have put less of each item in I guess. I was just very hungary." she bowed her head and looked up at her mother through her eyelashes.
Isa nodded. Rowena was picking up pretty fast. "And did you think of thanking cook and Lonno there for helping you?" She went on in her kind but lecturing voice.
Rowena bowed her head, "No!" After a brief pause she looked up at her mother, "a princess doesn't have to thank a servant, do they?" Her voice was troubled and her face showed confusion. She had thought princesses could do what they wanted. Still, she didn't like to hurt other people's feelings either.
Isa sighed. "You are right dear, princesses are above the law, they don't have to do that. But do you want to be that kind of princess? Do you want your servants to do things for you because they fear you or do you want them to love and respect you? That is the choice you have to make for yourself, dearheart. I can't make it for you."
Rowena thought for a moment and then turned to Lonno. "Thank You for carrying my basket." she whispered and took a piece of fruit from it and gave it to him. She turned back to her mother, "I will bring cook back flowers to thank her, that would be okay, wouldn't it?" Rowena was storing away what her mother had told her. She never wanted servants to fear her.
Isa smiled brightly now. "That sounds like a very good idea to me, princess. I will help you pick the flowers." Good the girl was learning and Isa was sure that Wyn would be a good teacher as well. She had raised all her children with respect for all people. "Come let's ride. There are some things I should discuss with you."
Rowena was quick to scramble up upon her pony. She loved riding almost more than anything. She was already quite competent at for her age. She had even snuck a ride or two on a bigger horse. But today, she was determined to be ladylike and so was trying very hard to curb her usual exhuberance. She rode quietly beside her mother waiting for her to speak of the things she had mentioned.
"Honey." Her mother finally said. "As soon as you are settled here, I am going away for a few weeks." She hoped it would not alarm the little girl. "I want to go and visit Hawk in Dinas Dwr. Cousin Gwen sent a letter telling us that your brother was injured in a fight and I would like to be with him for a while."
Rowena looked at her mother with grave concern for an eight year old. "You will not go alone? Maybe I should go with you instead, so I can help care for Hawk?" Rowena did not want to stay and play if her brother was injured, though the thought of traveling so far was a little scary.
"And leave your poor uncle all alone now that he is so glad? I know you haven't seen your brother in two years, dear." She wasn't at all sure she should bring Rowena. From what she had heard Hawk was much changed, sullen and withdrawn and it might be a shock to the little one. "And it's a long journey."
"I suppose not." Rowena was silent. She had thought her mother would be visiting her if she stayed with Uncle Wyn. Now she was leaving to see her brother, Rowena knew it was a long journey and she had already promised to stay with her uncle. "I will take care of Uncle Wyn while you are gone." Her voice was resigned and mature.
Isa leaned over and kissed her on the top of her head. "You are a lovely girl, honey. I know you feel bad about me going and I hate to leave you as well. But you will have unlce Wyn and Brendan and Bronwen are both at court. Hawk has nobody right now. Gwen said he is very lonely." Rowena frowned. "I do not want Hawk to be lonely. Please try to bring him home." Rowena's eyes appealed to her mother to bring her long absent brother home. "Where shall we have our picnic?"
"I don't think Hawk wants to be home, honey. But I think I will take Rhys with me. Maybe your little nephew can cheer him up. And you can pick the picknick spot."
Rowena rode quietly till she found a pretty meadow filled with flowers and a small stream. She stopped her pony and hopped off. It was a beautiful spot for a picnic. She helped her mother with the basket and laid out the blanket. Finally she asked the question that bothered her so. "Mamma, Doesn't Hawk love us anymore? Why wouldn't he want to be where he is loved?" The brother that she could remember had always had a kind word and a smile for her.
"Oh honey." How could she explain to a little girl what hurt her herself so much every day of her life. "Hawk loves you very, very much. You know that. But being here reminds him too much of Rhonwen. And that hurts him more. But never doubt that your brother loves you very much."
Rowena frowned as she put out the food she had so carefully chosed for her mother. " Would Daddy leave me if you died too?" She thought of her small nephew.
"No he wouldn't." THis was the hard part for although she understood her son, she blamed him for abandoning his son. "Rowena, your brother was a child himself when Rhys was born. And he couldn't cope with losing Rhonwen. Your dad would have Branwen and Brendan to help him. Others to fall back on. Hawk felt like he had nobody. And everything here reminded him of Rhonwen. But your family will never abandon you dear."
"You must tell him that he has us all. I will send a gift with you for him." Rowena held out a plate for her mother. "Was there something else? You said there "things?" Rowena was trying to be very grown up.
Isa smiled at her daughter. That lovely girl, how soon it was before she would really grow up. Branwen and she had drifted apart after Branwen had been fostered. With a pang in her stomac Isa hoped that wouldn't happen with Rowena.
"I am sure Hawk will love that, Rowena. That was about it. I did want to make sure that you are feeling okay about staying with uncle Wyn. now that you have had some time to let it sink in."
"Then eat, I packed enough to make sure you were very sa- sated?" Rowena was still working hard to pick up words that the adults used. Rowena waited for a moment before answering. "I expect I will be happy. I just hope he doesn't want me to be perfect all the time." Rowena couldn't stand the thought of having to wear nice dresses and staying clean all the time.
Isa laughed out loud. That was one thing she didn't have to fear. "Oh no, dear. Uncle Wyn is not like that. He will let you run wild! In fact I am a bit worried that he won't discipline you enough!" She said still laughing.
"A Call to Arms, Part One"
Kirsten, Skald of Henroc, of the Clan of the Golden Serpent
Cylidd
Albertawe
The small steppe pony made it over the last rise and galloped down towards the city of Cylidd. The mount had brought its two passengers many miles already and still continued to race on.
Kirsten had pushed her small mount hard to reach the city of Cylidd. The afternoon sun hung lower on the horizon now, and if she was able to convince the leaders of Cylidd danger lurked so close she could see no reason not being back at Mirendale by sunrise. Of course that was a large assumption that a militia would be called upon. After all it was the word of a stranger and a small boy.
The Skald slowed and dismounted as she approached the small walled city. She had the boy walk the mount behind her as she moved towards one of the guardsmen at the city's main gate.
A guardsman nodded to his companion as the woman approached them. Both straightened up to look more presentable. Then the guard called out, "State yer name and yer business?"
Having left the city that morning she would have thought it would be hard for these men to forget her, but it was of little concern for her, she had more urgent business. Kirsten stopped, holding nothing but her stave, and replied, "I be Kirsten, Skald of Henroc, of the Clan of the Golden Serpent. I bring grave news, soldiers from Nethbo occupy the hamlet of Mirendale. I wish to speak with the Captain of the Guard."
The two soldiers looked to one another and wondered more what this woman was up to then taking the warning that Nethboian soldiers had crossed into their fair kingdom. "The Captain is a busy woman, tell me what you know and I will pass it along when my duty for this eve is done," the guardsman said in response.
Kirsten was afraid that she would run into such trouble and did not trust the information she held to the men before her. In response she answered, "Nay, I cannot. Let me pass and I shall seek out the Captain of the Guard meself."
"Come now woman. If what ye say is true then ye'll tell us or be off with ye," the other guardsmen replied.
"If ye will not heed my warnings, then I will ride to Castell Brydion, or on to Alban if I must. I have no time for the likes of either of ye!" Kirsten said in anger. She then turned about and returned to her mount.
She had reached her mount and started to tell boy that they must continue onward if they were to get the help they needed. The young lad looked up to Skald and then to the soldiers and yelled to them, "Why? Why can ye not help!? Me Ma and Pa are prisoners and ye j'st stand there." The boy started to cry in his frustration and then cursed the two soldiers, "May ye know nothing but ill will as the gods look unfavorable upon ye all in this accursed city!" He then turned away, the tears flowing freely down his face.
Without further words both woman and boy turned and began their trek towards Castell Brydion many days travel away.
It was only a short distance away, the city of Cylidd still in sight when the sounds of a horse could be heard coming up the trail towards the two. Kirsten moved her mount and the boy off the trail and waited for the person to pass.
A black horse came into sight, the figure that sat astride was dressed in blackened armor and wore a crimson cloak that flowed behind him in the breeze. The man reined in his mount that came to a stop before the woman and the boy. The two could now see that the man wore a full suit of black studded leather, two short blades rested sheathed upon each hip. The man had short golden locks and clean shaven face save a well trimmed goatee. His piercing azure gaze settled upon those before him. "Well met, I am Merrick of Evandler. I am but a simple, but respected, mercenary. I overheard your plight as I walked the ramparts, and offer you my services. I also have the ear of the Captain of the Guard, you might say we are well aquatinted."
"We thank ye fer any help ye can render. It would be well that we returned to Mirnendale in force, as the boy has told me, the soldiers of Netbo expect reinforcements soon, " Kirsten said as she looked up to the man seated upon the warhorse.
"Very well then. Shall we return to Cylidd and gather our forces?" the man asked, seeming a little more then eager to do battle soon.
"Aye," Kirsten answered and turned about and returned with the mercenary to Cylidd.
Abertawe: "A Chance Meeting"
Catrin abYestin
Lady Isa
Rowena
It was hardly unusual, on such a warm and sunny day, to look out across the fields beyond the Keep and see a lady made comfortable among the flowers and high grass. What was unusual was that the woman, Catrin abYestin, wife of Sir Gareth, obviously gentleborn by her dress and delicate features, was unattended by maid or guard.
The fact was that Catrin was seldom attended; guards and maids were an unnecessary extravagance in the eyes of her husband. So Catrin had only herself for company. but that was suitable. She had found herself a spot out here, where nobody would see her, gladly shedding her hot veil and wimple. She had made a lunch of some wild plums she had found nearby, and some water from the stream; her husband didn't waste his fabulous wealth on his wife, so her supper was her own problem.
She had on her lightest gown of summery green, unadorned but for exquisite embroidery at the sleeve and collar. Her hair was swept back over her shoulders, bound in a simple cord mere inches above her waist; the sunlight sparked fire from the auburn waves.
All who knew Catrin swore her to be an incredible beauty; but today that flawless porcelain skin was marred by a purple-black bruise that extended from her left cheekbone to her jawline. The wound, and the ones hidden by her dress, were chastisement from her husband, Gareth, for Catrin's failure to bring his best jerkins to town with them.
She sat on a blanket in the grass, easily ignoring the pain -- though it had kept her awake all night -- in favor of the bolster on her lap. Fully two hundred handcarved bobbins hung from the bolster, the tools that were making the lace veil pinned around the bolster itself.
She manipulated the bobbins, tying knots and advancing the pattern, perfectly content. The veil had been her primary project since the winter, and was only a row or two from being finished. She had designed the pattern herself, and the veil depicted sworls of white surrounding flowers. She called it "Morning Mist," and had hoped to give it to the Lady Isa when the opportunity presented itself.
She scarcely noticed the sound of laughter until it was practically on top of her. Then she looked up to see a little girl, with golden blonde hair (presently speckled with bits of leaves and grass) and sparkling blue eyes, looking curiously down at her. The girl's dress was grass stained, and a bunch of wilted flowers were clutched in one tiny fist.
There was no time to grab her wimple and cover her bruise, so Catrin pulled her hair over her shoulder, hoping to hide the mark that way. The little girl probably wouldn't notice or care; but her nursemaid was bound to come along sooner or later, and that one would notice.
"How do you do, my lady. Are you Queen Mab, come to steal me away to the Fairy Kingdom?" said Catrin, her smile onesided due to her wounded face. She loved children, and this little thing was incredibly beautiful.
Rowena cocked her head and looked at the lady. She could not remember seeing her before. "If I was Queen Mab, I would not tell you for then you would flee and I would be unable to steal you." she replied with a sweet matter of fact voice. "What is that you are doing?"
Catrin could not help but laugh at the girl's charming honesty. "But you must be her! You're too pretty not to be. If you aren't Queen Mab, how could such a pretty little lady be out wandering the fields so far from her nursemaids?" Catrin said. "And, since you ask, my Sidhe Majesty, I am making a lace veil. Just wait...." She manipulated the last twenty bobbins, and tugged the knots tight before disengaging the veil from the pins that held it to the bolster. She shook it out gently, and held it up to the sun, before turning to the little girl. "Would you like to try it on?"
Rowena looked at the beautiful veil in awe and shook her head no. She would not want to get it dirty. "No thank you, it must be for someone very special. It is beautiful." Rowena plopped down beside the lady and examined the veil without touching. "What about you? Where is your maid? I left mine at home." Rowena asked simply. "I have been riding with my mother. We are picking flowers. See?" Rowena held up her posy for the lady to inspect.
"Very beautiful," Catrin agreed, as she smiled at the girl. Without warning, she spread the veil over the girl's hair and leaned back to see the effect. "Now you do look like a fairy Queen. And you were right. It is for somebody special. I was going to give it to the Lady Isa, at the Keep. But I think it would look better on you."
Rowena smiled brightly at the lady. "Then you must give it to her! Mother?" Mother, come here and see what I found!" Rowena shouted in a most unladylike fashion. The veil still upon her head. She turned back to the lady, "My mother is the Lady Isa and she is leaving soon, so now is a good time to give her your gift. It will make her very happy." Rowena's simple view of life's pleasures showed in her voice.
Isa came over when she heard her daugther shout out for her and nodded politely to the stranger.
"Hello, I don't think we have met yet. I am Isa, and you are?" she held out her hand. Catrin flushed crimson, and quickly climbed to her feet. She sketched a curtsey before the Lady, and lowered her eyes. "My lady, I am the Lady Catrin abYestin, the wife of Sir Gareth. My lord has come to town in anticipation of a journey to...to see to some business. He thought it best....This is very awkward, my lady."
Isa smiled. "No need, my dear. Join our little picnick. And just tell me a bit about yourself." She said warmly. Isa had the knack of making people feel at ease. And she had heard of Gareth, Isa didn't like the man one bit.
"My lady, you're very kind, but I really shouldn't. I don't want to intrude, and my lord will be upset if I'm not home when he arrives," said Catrin, her hand straying up to pull at her hair, and hide the marks on her face.
Rowena answered Catrin's demurral by looking up at her and sticking out her lip in an disappointed pout. Catrin gave her a one-sided smile and sighed.
"All right, your Majesty," said Catrin. "We mortals dare not displease the Sidhe." She looked at Lady Isa and blushed as she bowed her head. "Just for a moment, my lady. Let me gather my things."
As Isa and Rowena waited, Catrin put back on her hated wimple and veil, and collected her blanket and bolster. Then she silently followed the two back to their picknick.
Audience
Ailsa
Shawn Greython
King Gwenwynwyn
"Sir?" Ailsa asked, in a small voice. The knight kept going. She berated herself for her shyness and spoke again, this time louder, "Sir?" The knight stopped.
Shawn Greython had just finished his morning prayers, and was headed to the chapel for his morning duties when the girl approached. "Yes my child", Shawn responsed, "what may I do for ye?"
"King Aeric requests an audience, M'Lord." She had a crush on him, had from the first time she came to court. He was one of the best looking men at court... but he was also nearly old enough to be her father.
"Thank you my child. I shall head there immediately." Getting an audience with the king was no small matter. Even through Shawn represented the king in all shipping affairs, he rarely bothered the king with daily business. The sea was his domain, behind only to his religion and loyalty to the king. If the king needed to see his, then something must be amiss. Shawn hurried to the great hall in the castle.
*** Some time later ***
"Sir Shawn Grethyon, M'Lord," Ailsa bowed deeply to the ri.
"Shawn, this morning there was a rider from Cylidd. They are requesting aid to handle border raids. I would like to send young Brenden, but I would like someone to aid him as an advisor. He is unexperienced, but eager and restless for want of activity. I understand that you typically handle things that deal with the rivers, but what say you, sir knight?"
"I would be honored, my leige. I can be prepared by the morning for the travel. I will let Brenden know of the situation."
"I think it will be wise for me to speak to my nephew first. I will have him seek you out. I would that you two leave Alban no later then the day after."
"It shall be done, my lord." Shawn bowed as he slowly backed his way out of the area before turning and heading out of the room.
"Wanderer turned Knight... Turned Wanderer ?"
Sir Marcus Hawkwood - High knight of Fire
Marcus sat on the cold stone floor in his temporary domicile, very temporary indeed, for at next light he had plans to go forth to Cylidd. His many years wandering other lands, time at sea and times at risk, He always thought what he'd wanted was a settled life but now that he had one all he wished for was to get moving again. Ever since his knghthood and subsequent High Knighthood he had lived a good life, but a good life alone, and being alone is not right when you live among so many. He had remporarily eased the lonliiness when he aquired Setal, a runt mastiff, the puppy provided him with some companionship but after the passing time he knew that it wouldnt do. Marcus Hawkwood was a man of the open road and the chance meetings.
"I believe this belongs to ye sir" a high pitched voice interupted his thoughts and caused Marcus to look up at the young kitchen lad before him. The young kitchen lad holding a roly poly fat puppy in his arms, the puppy squirming and slobbering. Marcus couldnt help but laugh, the puppy was bloated from recently eating, and it outmassed the boys carrying capacity, therefore its legs were hanging by the boys stomach kicking to get out while it was constantly licking at the boys chin and neck. The child looked more like he was hugging it rather than carrying it. "Sir Hawkwood" He whined as his his arms gave way and the puppy came to the earth in a splattering of legs and ears.. the puppies loose skin rolling and bunching up, its tounge hanging out its mouth the whole time. Marcus thanked the youngster and after his departure took the puppy in his arms. "So setal, tomorrow we leave" He spoke to the puppy as it made itself comfortable in his lap.. "Come on" he lifted the puppy and placed it in the corner "sleep time"
Hawkwood himself went to a dreamless sleep. His trek to Cylidd would take it out of him he knew.. so he got as much rest as possible that eve.
The Merchant
Ailsa ui Garath
Thorsys ap Taran
Ailsa entered the quaint little shop in the village that grew around the castle. Her eyes were wide in amazement at the variety of goods that filled every nook and cranny, or at least it seemed to her. She was still new at court and had not visited many of the places in the village.
"May I help you?" Ailsa jumped at the sound of the voice. She was still on the shy side, though not as bad as when she first came to Alban.
"King Aeric requests an audience with Thorsys ap Taran."
"Audience?" Thorsys seemed confused. He hadn't done anything particularly shady - yet. And his store was still relatively new and unknown. "What does the bloke want with me?"
Ailsa's eyes narrowed slightly at the disrespectful way the man in front of her spoke of the king, but dismissed it. "His majesty is most interested in seeing material and ribbon to use in the making of dresses. The material is to be a gift for the Lady Isa and her daughters."
"Ah, well then," thought Thorsys out loud. He looked around his shop until he found a stack of folded cloth in one corner. He quickly saw a sign on top that said "Nine pennies a sheet". He quickly tried to discard it before Alisa could see it. *A pretty penny, this'll be,* he thought excitedly, although he kept the gruff businessman look on his face.
Grabbing a few sheets of the cloth, he mentioned, "I'll assume yer kingship wants a sample of the stuff, yes?"
"A selection is what the Lord requested." She was eager to get back to the castle and was getting a little impatient, but since the Ri wanted this done, she would wait as long as needed.
"Well, then," Thorsys replied, as he made sure the bundles of cloth were sturdy in his hands. "Lead the way to his Lordship-ness..."
***
"Master Thorsys, M'Lord," Ailsa bowed deeply to the ri. Thorsys bowed as best he could without contracting his gut too much.
"Thank you for coming Master Thorsys. I trust that Ailsa as described what I seek?"
"Cloth, your worship," Thorsys said in answer. He placed the stacks of cloth on the floor. "Many patterns and colours, and they can be trimmed to whatever length you wish." *At a handsome alteration fee, of course,* thought Thorsys to himself. "And if none of these satisfy you, I can acquire some more from the clothiers. Provided there is a reasonable travelling surcharge." Then he quickly clapped his mouth. Did he just say that last part out loud? Looking around the room, he didn't notice any particularily shocking facial expressions from the guards, the king, or Alisa - but he didn't really know what their "normal" facial expressions would be anyway. So Thorsys then gave an easy smile... not something he did very often.
"Fear you not, you will be paid fairly." The Ri motioned at Ailsa. She scurried forward and brought forth to him the bolts one at a time. Two particular bolts caught his eye - the green and a royal blue. The blue would accent Isa's eyes and fair skin, much like it would for Gwenhwyfar.
"These two," he pointed out the two in which he was fond of, "I shall take. Ailsa will provide you payment. Thank you Merchant."
Thorsys bowed once again to the Ri, and gave the royal blue and green cloths to Alisa. "My payment," coughed Thorsys, politely but firmly.
Alisa nodded and dropped eighteen silver pennies into the merchant's outstretched hand. Thorsys looked at the sum he was given, counted it again, and then began, "I am sure you recognize the fine quality of..." Alisa made no motion, but Thorsys spotted the Ri's gaze turning upon him from the corner of his eye. It was one of dissatisfaction.
"Eighteen coins is quite fine," conceded Thorsys. He then left the castle and returned to his shop, cursing himself mentally.
But then again, one did not take advantage of the Ri.
"There at Last"
Maelona Dossen
Abertawe
Noon
Hooves rumbled down the cobblestone path as Maelona rode up to the castle. The sun was shining directly upon her head and the grounds were alive with activity. She pulled her horse to a stop and waved her arms in the direction of a young page.
"You there lad! Can you please direct me to the stables?" The boy smiled and pointed off towards a large shed, Mae responded, "ah I see, thank you."
She nudged the sides of her horse and headed to the structure in a light trot. A bearded man walked out from the stable, wiping his face with a damp cloth. He looked up at Maelona and smiled, "May I help you?" Mae nodded her head and climbed down from her horse, "My name is Maelona Dossen, I am a knight of this castle."
The elderly man abruptly bowed down, "Yes Milady, I was given word of your arrival." He waved his hand up into the air and a young maid hustled over. "Tabitha will show you to your quarters and once you have freshened up, I am sure you will be called to court. Now I'll take your horse and you follow Tabby."
Mae smiled, "Thank you very much for your assistance." She turned to retrieve her bags but found a young man already carrying them into the castle. Her thoughts were interrupted with a light voice, "follow me Dame Dossen, if you please."
Mae looked at the young servant girl and smiled, "But of course." She climbed the stairs and entered the keep, quite excited and a bit nervous.
"A Call to Arms, Part Two"
Kirsten, Skald of Henroc, of the Clan of the Golden Serpent
Merrick of Evandler, Mercenary
[ the main keep, Cylidd, Albertawe ]
"The information you have provided us is most invaluable. Our thanks goes to you and the lad," The Captain of the Guard, Maeve Innisworth, stated. Cylidd's military leader looked to one of her soldiers and ordered, "Lieutenant, send scouts to Mirendale and along the borderlands. I want to know if there any movement."
The young man responded, "Yes Ma'am," and departed from the room.
Maeve looked to Kirsten and the boy, "I am sure the kitchen can fix you and the lad up a hearty meal and I will arrange rooms for you for the both of you."
Kirsten understood all to well that the Captain meant to get them both out of her way now. She looked to the boy who had accompanied her to Cylidd and said, "Go on yer safe here. I'll be let'n ye know if I be hear'n anything."
The boy nodded and departed from the room.
Merrick stood in the shadows of the room and had not said anything since they were escorted into talk with the Captain of the Guard and now smiled. He knew Maeve well and from what he saw of Kirsten he knew that the two women were alike, both headstrong. Maeve wanted to be rid of the woman so that she could proceed without interruption and Kirsten had no intention of leaving. He stayed quite and continued to watch what ensued next.
"As I mentioned your information was most helpful, but I am going to have to ask you to leave now. I must speak with my advisors to discuss our next course of action," the Captain ordered more then asked.
Kirsten eyed the woman before her and stated bluntly, "I can be of help to ye. I be knowing the Mirendale area well=85"
Maeve cut in before Kirsten could continue her argument, "I am sure you do. But my advisors and scouts know the area just as well as you do. Now please, you will have to leave. I will keep you informed as to what is happening. That is the best I can do."
"Nay! I shall not leave. A friend and mentor is a prisoner within the hamlet and I intend to help, with or without ye!" Kirsten answered the Captain now standing in a determined manner.
"I can have you arrested and then you will go no where! Do not=85" Meave started as the door to her office opened.
A young lad moved into the room and announced, "Lady Isolde."
A regal woman dressed in finery of her station entered the room. Both Meave and Merrick bowed. Lady Isolde noticed Kirsten standing there but chose to ignore the lack of respect that her station demanded and instead addressed her Captain of the Guard, "What is this, I must hear second hand, about Nethbo soldiers taking control of one of the villages so close to Cylidd?"
"I am most sorry M'lady. I was just about to come inform you myself." Maeve replied.
Isolde's eyebrow rose as she crossed her arms over her chest, "Is that so?" Before Maeve could respond the Lady continued, "No matter, I have dispatched a message to Alban informing them of what has occurred and requested reinforcements. These raids are wearing our troops down. We will need aid to have these skirmishes put down once and for all. Captain I want the city's watch doubled immediately, I do not want to be caught unawares."
"Yes M'lady, right away." the Captain of the Guard replied as she moved to relay the orders.
"And Maeve," the city's ruler said turning to face her Guard Captain, "Please be sure I am apprised of any further incursions along the boarder."
"Yes M'lady," the woman stated and continued out the door knowing she was in some trouble.
Lady Isolde turned to the man in the shadows, "Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention, but I doubt Maeve would be overly happy if she knew it was you who over stepped her authority."
Merrick shrugged and then replied, "It's always a pleasure to serve Milady. As for Maeve I can handle her."
The woman then turned her gaze upon Kirsten, "Thank you Lady Bard. I am sure something can be worked out where you can be involved in Mirendale's repatriation."
Kirsten nodded, "Thank thee M'lday."
"Merrick, show our guest to her room and have a meal sent to her. Then please find Meave and the both of you come to my Council Chambers. We have much to discuss, word from Alban should arrive on the morrow."
"Yes Milday," the man said and bowed once again. He looked to Kirsten and made a sweeping gesture, "This way of you will."
The two departed followed by the Lady of Cylidd.
"The mission"
By The King
Sir Brendan ap Iorwerth
Ailsa
"Sir," Ailsa called gently. "Your uncle the King requests your presence."
Brendan looked up from his duties. He had set himself to cleaning his horse's harness himself today. Just to get his mind off the dreary garrison duty. "Tell my lord king that I will be right over once I have changed." Brendan did not look enthusiatically. What could he have done wrong now.
"Yes, Sir," Ailsa bowed her head in respect and scurried off.
He finished grooming swift and then made his way over to the waterbasin on the castle courtyard. There he washed and put on a set of clean clothes in the room he shared with some more young knights. Then he made his way over to his uncle's study.
"You wanted to see me, your highness?" He asked formally.
Gwenwynwyn nodded at his nephew and began, "This morning there was a rider from Cylidd. They are requesting aid to handle border raids. I would like to send you in command of a small troop. Sir Shawn will travel with you as your advisor."
Brendan could not believe his ears. "Sir?" He gaped. His uncle had never entrusted him with anything up till now. And sir Shawn was an older more experienced knight. What his uncle meant was to entrust him with a minder and that rankled. "Why not give sir Shawn the command if you don't trust me to do this." His eyes burned, his parents had not raised him to talk like this. "Your highness."
Wyn's eyes flashed a bit of anger at the pup's impudence and a little sadness. This way, the boy would be quick to anger those that he was to serve and disappoint his parents. "If I didn't trust you to do this, I wouldn't send you. I can send someone else if you would prefer not to go."
"No your highness." Brendan bowed his head knowing he had angered his uncle. "I will go. And I will not disappoint you."
"I trust that you won't. You have before the end of tomorrow to ready everything for the journey. Take fifteen men, all on horse back so that you may arrive with all due speed."
"Yes your highness." Brendan said walking off.
"Sights of the Future"
Magden McRein, Mystic
A man awoke and looked sleepily about the room he was now within. Somehow the room did not appear to be familiar to him, but merely shook his head and dismissed it as being away from Albertawe for so long. The man rose from the bed and placed his feet upon the cold floor. He looked down expecting to see his sandals but they were gone. Thinking his grandchildren must have run off with them once again he smiled and stood.
An alarm broke the night's silence. A call to arms was issued through the streets.
Magden wondered who could be attacking the well-defended city. The man moved to the window and pushed the curtains aside and stared across the landscape of a strange city he not. He lowered his head and rubbed his forehead wondering what was happening. Recognition of his situation then hit him and he peered out the window with great interest.
In dawn's gloom the man could see men and women running through the streets. Upon the city's ramparts soldiers moved about with unease as the looked out upon the fields that lay beyond set ablaze. Billowing black smoke rose from many places both far and near from the city. The man changed his gaze and turned towards the keep that lay to the east. He knew it was east because the light from the day's sun illuminated the horizon. He still did not know where he was, but knew he must discover that before it was too late.
Magden moved towards the room's door and as he did he passed a mirror and paused for a moment as he looked upon his reflection. From the reflected glass appeared a man perhaps in his mid thirties. Black locks adorned his head and were tied back to give a sleek look. He was dressed within a red nightshirt. Magden merely smiled at his appearance, but frowned as he recalled that something in this unknown place was terribly wrong.
The man moved towards the door once again and opened it. Before him lay a stone wall where he could see the burning fields beyond with ease. He could also now make out that several forms beyond moved towards the city. The man stepped through the doorway and continued to look about. From a tower that lay close by a yell came, "They're coming!"
Magden looked up and could see a man pointing westward into the darkness. He then raised a crossbow, took aim, and fired. Below a man fell to the ground clutching his chest. A woman's voice rose above the rest and ordered, "Open fire! Repel these dogs!."
It was then that several small fires appeared in the field before the city. As suddenly as the fired appeared they were flying into the air towards the city. The man's eyes opened wide in shock as he realized that whomever the enemy was upon the field had just used catapults to send fiery balls of flame into the city. The first struck the wall and bounced into the small group below. Soldiers, Magden assumed, caught fire and screamed out in agony of being burnt. The city would not stay so lucky, as many of the other fireballs blasted into homes and into the streets. Destruction rained down upon the city many times more before the man lowered his gaze.
The sounds of peoples' screams faded as he looked up he could see that he now look down upon a chamber within some building. Those below stood around a large map that lay upon the table. Several icons where being moved about. Those within the room spoke.
A woman in finery asked, "Where are the enemy forces now?"
A mid aged man, dressed appropriately for battle, looked up from the map and replied, "Nethboiam forces have surrounded the city and cut us off from any reinforcements."
Magden's mouth opened wide as he finally heard of a name he recognized. One he also knew was now an enemy of his homeland.
The doors to the room boomed open as a runner reported, "We are being attacked! They are using catapults on us. Many homes are now ablaze."
A younger man, also dressed for battle, spoke, "What? So soon? Why would they attack us with such destruction in mind? What has Albertawe done to them?"
"Be at ease young Knight, this was to be expected," the middle aged man stated.
"Should we consider surrender, to save the city from destruction?" asked a red haired woman asked.
The regal woman spoke, "Cylidd will not surrender so easily."
The middle aged man responded as well, "This is merely the start of this conflict, all options will be considered.
From his position Magden heard what he needed, but wondered why he was present here. As well when was here?
The room then shook once from the impact of a boulder. Magden looked to the window and could see a fireball that moved right for him and this very room. The glass of the window shattered inward and rained down on this below as the ball of flame erupted consuming those within. The man raised his arms to protect his face and yelled, "Nooooo!"
A voice echoed through the hall, "Grandpa Den. Grandpa Den. Wake up Grandpa Den..."
[ Son in Law's Home, Alban, Alberawe ]
"Grandpa Den. Grandpa Den. Wake up Grandpa Den," a small bow shook the older man that lay in bed screaming.
The man's eyes opened in shock as he looked about and saw that he was within familiar surroundings. At his side was a small boy he knew as his grandson. Looking across the room into the mirror he saw his reflection, a older man perhaps in his late fifties and was bald. He nodded in knowing that he had just had a vision of what might be.
The young boy now seeing his grandpa awake smiled and asked, "Are ye alright Grandpa?"
"Aye Liam I am fine," the man said as he sat up. He then asked, "Where are your mother and father?"
"At breakfast. Mamma sent me to get you," the boy replied.
"Good, good. Go tell her I am on my way," the older man stated as he stood.
The young boy nodded and raced out of the room.
Magden looked about the room as he recalled what he had just seen. He knew he must do something. The man then dressed and grabbed up his travelling bag and proceeded to fill it with things he might need for the road ahead.
Several moments later the man came down the stairs and looked into the kitchen where he saw his daughter moving about with breakfast as she served her husband and two children. She saw her father and smiled, "Good morning father."
The man at the table looked up and smiled, "Good morning Magden."
The older man greeted his daughter and her husband warmly. Both could see that the man was dressed to travel.
"Where are you off to now father?" the woman said as she sighed, used to her father going off at a moment's notice.
"Cylidd," the man answered.
The woman shook her head but understood that her father's gift/curse often revealed to him many things that he needed to attend. The woman's husband though did not understand his father-in-law's urges and need to go off and help others. He then spoke up, "When I was at court yesterday, I heard that Sir Iorwerth and Sir Hawkwood are taking calvary to Cylidd."
Magden nodded, "Thank you son. I must make for the Castle before they depart. They must know what I saw."
Magden's daughter moved to her father and embraced him, "Be well father."
The older man took up his walking stick as he moved out the door. From this part of Alban the Castle lay a short distance. Magden hoped he would reach those departing in time, and hoped they would heed his warnings.
"Not exactly a friendly beginning"
By Lord Shawn
Sir Brendan
Shawn, having little personal effects, or spending that much on personal grooming, woke early in the morning and was ready by the time the sun was fully into the sky. He immediately headed to the stables to have his squire prepare his horse for the travel ahead. Once finished, he would seek out Brendan.
Brendan had spend the best part of the morning getting his team together. Fifteen soldiers wasn't a big deal. But because he had been around the castel garrison with his dad since he was a little boy, he knew most of the men. He knew the truly experienced ones, the hotheads. And he was careful to pick men he knew he could rely on, and as many as possible who were originally from this area. He had just finished his revue when he saw the older knight walk towards him. Brendan still had mixed feelings about Shawn coming with them. And he was mad at his uncle for not trusting him to be able to do this on his own.
"Morning, m'lord." Brendan said a bit tersely.
"Good morning, Master Brendan . I trust that everything is in order for our trip?"
"Yes m'lord. I picked the men personally. There are no hotheads in the group." *Except for me*, he thought. "And more then half know the border region well and have friends and family there."
"Very well. As per the kings orders, I will only be here as an advisor. Should you have any questions to ask, I will be available.
Otherwise, this mission is yours to run as you will."
"Of course it is, m'lord." Brendan bowed slowly and his tone of voice was sarcastic, but he was carefull to be polite so sir Shawn couldn't fault him for it.
"I shall take up rank behind the other knights, you use me as though I were one of them."
"That is very good." Brendan said cutting the conversation short. It would be a long time before something of trust would build between the two of them.
Outside the City of Abertawe
-------
The clatter of hoof beats resounded down the wooded path and the pair of frolicking children looked up in surprise. The girl's eyes opened wide, radiant in her childlike beauty as her tiny lips parted in surprise. They didn't have to speak what they were both thinking - whomever the hooded figure had been, he was heading towards the city as if demons had been on his heels.
The apparition didn't pass by the city's guards unnoticed, either. Although the figure in the billowing cloak slowed as he approached the gates, suspicion grew amongst the stationed guards. As they clamored towards the city walls, the chestnut stallion trotted friskily to a stop, obediently standing still as two armed men approached the figure.
"What business do you have in Abertawe?" the first asked, tossing a look towards his comrade. Now that they were closer, it was clear that the man was hardly a menacing figure - he was slim, almost too thin for a grown man.
"I have business with the king, not with you," came the gruff reply. The first guard, Collin, smirked at the sound of the stranger's voice; by the pitch, he could be no more than a boy.
"Whatever business you have needn't bother the king," Collin slyly said, toying menacingly with the hilt of his sword. He was confident the boy would be frightened enough to deliver whatever information he had to him; and perhaps it would result in a promotion for him back to the castle.
A pair of emerald eyes flashed at him beneath the hood, the only discernable feature underneath the thick, worn material. "I must pass," the stranger replied firmly.
But it was becoming quite clear that the figure would not be allowed passage; not while the guard had a say in it.
Almost quicker than the eye could follow, a flash erupted from the figure's cloak, and the first guard's sword flew clattering to the ground. A look of pure astonishment was plastered upon the man's face as he grasped for thin air.
Without a word, the cloaked figure spurred the eager horse onwards, and the distant clattering of hooves was all that was left of the pair as they rapidly approached the castle proper.
Outside the castle
------
The figure slid off the eager mount as if he had been born upon a horse. Lovingly rubbing the stallion's muzzle, he nickered contentedly. The hood moved suddenly as the pair of emerald eyes gazed piercingly at the pair of guards who had followed them from the city gates. The green eyes rolled in exasperation.
Not bothering to tie the horse at all, the mysterious stranger walked unhesitatingly into the castle, depending purely on instinct to get to the throne room. How hard could it be to find the largest room in the castle?
It only took two minutes more for Collin and his companion to reach the castle's doors. Breathing heavily, they tumbled off their mounts, hardly sparing a look towards the almost amused stallion staring curiously at them.
Collin led the way into the grand hallway; its splendor left him speechless for nearly a full minute. "Where do you think that son of a goat went?" he asked his lackey, who shrugged as he gazed at the tapestries that lined the walls. He, unlike the revered Collin, had never been inside the castle walls.
"Come on, you fool," the larger guard growled, roughly grabbing the boy by his arm. He hurried through the corridors, intent on one thing - telling the King before anyone else got the glory.
The doors to the throne room were swept wide as Collin nearly ran into the room, forgetting even to lower his head in respect for the lords and ladies in attendance. "Your majesty!" he called, his voice booming through the grandiose hall. His companion was awestruck, standing mutely by the doorway.
All eyes turned towards the bedraggled guard.
"An intruder has broached the perimeter! Perhaps even an assassin for your majesty's li..." The man's coarse voice trailed off as his mind took in the scene.
The figure, almost as out of place in the magnificent hallway as Collin, stood before the king, his knee partly bent as he moved to raise himself from his kneeling position. With a toss of his head, the hood fell, finally revealing the face of the stranger who could make such a fool of the city's Royal Guard.
And he was a she.
Dark waves of hair tumbled past her waist, making her green eyes glow with almost an ethereal light. Although the dirt of travel smeared her face, but it couldn't hide the healthy glow of life upon her pinked cheeks. She could have been called beautiful - if she smiled. But the straight, almost harsh line to her lips marred her near angelic features to a plainness.
"If I were an assassin," she began, her musical country accent filling the hall, "Your heads would be on the block by now," she concluded, drawing a few nervous chuckles from the audience.
Her eyes returned to the regal figure upon the throne, only loosing a bit of their harshness. "As it is quite clear, your majesty, your troops are in need of training. The position of the Captain of the Guard is open... and I have come here to fill it."
She paused and the merest hint of a smile touched her lips - but only for a moment. "That is, if his majesty accepts my offer and will allow me to prove myself."
The Gifts
Gwenywynwyn ap Greidawl
Rowena ui Iorwerth
"Rowena," Gwenwynwyn's voice boomed. "I need to speak to you." He wasn't smiling, though the corner of his mouth twitched as though he fought it.
Rowena looked up from her doll to where her uncle stood. She got up obediently and walked over to him. She wondered if someone had told that she had gone frog hunting that morning. "Yes Uncle Wyn?" She was a little nervous.
"Follow me." He lead her into the study, where it was most comfortable and private. "Sit down, close your eyes, hold you hands out." When she had done so, he laid a bundle in her hands.
Rowena opened her eyes and looked down at the bundle. She opened it up excitedly. Her eyes became large at the beautiful silver torc in her lap. She looked up at her uncle, "it is very beautiful!" She handled it with awe. She held it up to the light and then looked at her uncle. "But, Uncle Wyn, what is it for?"
Wyn smiled, touching his own golden torc. "It is to show everyone you are a princess. Think of your Da's torc," he smiled widely.
Rowena put the present down and through herself into her Uncle's arms. "Now everyone will know I am a princess! Thank You!"
"I have one more present for you." He lead her out to the courtyard. There, Dylan, one of the stable boys, held a dapple gelding by the halter. "He's yours too, my heart.
"A real horse? I am allowed a real horse?" She looked at her Uncle with total admiration and idolization.
"You must promise me to never go out by yourself on him. Always have someone older with you until I think you are ready to. If I catch you, even once, going out without permission, I will take him away and not allow you to have him back," Wyn instructed with all due seriousness.
"I promise, Uncle Wyn, I will always take someone older than me." She ran up to the gelding. She stroked its nose and looked it over with as if assessing its value. She must have decided that it was acceptible for she proceeded to run back to her Uncle hugging him furiously..
"Run along and go show your mother," he grinned, returning her hug. He was so happy to see her as such. It made him feel younger again...
"Picknick Interrupted"
Catrin Ui Yestin
Isa
Rowena
Sir Gareth
Catrin felt very uncomfortable as she followed Isa and Rowena, and was urged to help herself to the generous repast spread for them.
"My lord and I were to pay our respects to the King and yourself tomorrow," said Catrin, as she picked at a chunk of bread. She was actually ravenously hungry; but she didn't want Isa to know. "My lord is travelling to...Dinodig in a week. He thought I should come to town while he was away. His lands are near the borderlands, and he ...fears for my safety." This wasn't strictly true, but she knew what Gareth would do if she blurted out his true intentions.
Isa had been watching her closely. She had a vast experience with women and girls over the years. And she knew that this one was not telling the truth. There was somehting shifty in her eyes, that together with Gareth's reputation made her fear for the worst. "Of course you can stay here, dear. We'd be glad to have you. I could use another lady in waiting for a few weeks."
Catrin saw the suspicion in Isa's eyes, and silently cursed Gareth. Isa was a charming, gracious woman; but she'd never want a friendship with Catrin after the deception forced on Catrin by her husband.
Catrin didn't know whether to weep or to flee. So instead she forced a smile. "You are too kind, my lady. It would be an honor, and I am happy to serve," said Catrin. She shrugged, suppressing a wince at the sudden pain the movement shot through her side. "I don't know what use I'd be. My lord will gladly tell you how clumsy I am. But I'll do my best, if you'll be patient with me. I can sew and weave and spin, if you need that sort of work. I know some music; but I'm sure you can find better teachers for the King's household." Her smile, though self-deprecating, was genuine this time.
"Let me be the judge of that." Isa said still smiling. She hadn't missed the wince and she knew a battered woman when she saw one. But Isa was not about to comment on it, that would only make Catrin feel worse. No the best she could do was take the woman in and slowly make her come out of her shell.
Rowena was helping herself to more bread. She watched the conversation between the ladies carefully. She knew that something was happening here, but she didn't know what. She could just sense that something was not right.
She picked up a piece of the cake that Cook had hidden inside the basket and took it to the Lady Catrin. "You look as if you could use a smile. My brother told me when I was little that you cannot eat cake and not smile." Rowena said this slowly and as ladylike as she could. She looked to her mother to see if she had repeated the saying correctly.
Catrin laughed and took the cake. She carefully broke the cake in two and handed the larger piece back to Rowena.
"I'll smile if you will," she said. She smiled, one-sided but pleasant, at Isa, at ease for the first time. "You have a charming daughter, my lady," she said.
But before Rowena and Isa could answer, a male voice called out from beyond the trees.
"Catrin! There you are!"
Catrin shivered, her face suddenly paper-white. She knew that voice. She looked at Isa with dead, frightened eyes, and climbed to her feet, the cake forgotten. She gathered her blanket and bolster, and forgot to curtsey in her haste to withdraw.
"My lady, thank you for...for... I really must leave... He's looking for me," Catrin stammered.
Isa's face was a mask, she didn't show to the other woman what she felt right now. She saw a knight ride by, a tall, well built man with long blonde hair. Not your typical Abertawe knight. Most were red or darkhaired. Normally her saxon people were the only blonde ones around.
"Sir Gareth." She greeted him. "Will you join the lady Catrin and me for our picknick?" she called out.
Catrin held still, shivering, as Gareth climbed from his horse and walked over to join them. He was wearing his most winning smile, his most pleasant manner. He bowed over Isa.
"My lady. Thank you for looking after my wife. She's so forgetful." He slipped his arm around Catrin's waist, in what looked like a loving gesture; but his fingers gouged into her side. Catrin tensed and looked at the ground, unwilling to show a reaction.
"Your invitation is very kind, my lady," Gareth continued. "But we're expecting guests this evening, so we really mustn't delay. Good day, my lady." Gareth bowed again, and led Catrin away.
As soon as they were out of sight of Isa, Gareth closed Catrin's arm in a viselike grip, and jerked her around to face him.
"What did you say to her?" he said.
"What?" said Catrin, confused and frightened. "Nothing. I don't --"
The blow was so sudden that it didn't even hurt for the first instant. She was just suddenly lying in the grass, staring dazedly up at the sky. Then the pain struck, and tears filled her eyes.
"I saw the way she looked at me," said Gareth, as he knelt over Catrin.
"I didn't...your name never came up," Catrin said, weeping and pressing her hand to her throbbing cheek.
"Liar!" Gareth struck her again. Catrin's eyes rolled up in her head, and she struggled to remain conscious. She could dimly hear Gareth snarling at her, but was too dazed to make sense of his words. Dimly she was aware of his pulling her to her feet, and lifting her onto his horse. She swayed, nearly falling, but managed to keep her seat. Gareth began to lead the horse away.
Catrin looked up to see Rowena peeping out of some nearby bushes. Her little face was taut and pale, her eyes huge and frightened. How much had she seen? Catrin raised her finger to her lips in a shushing gesture. She pointed at Gareth, then shushed the girl again silently.
Rowena's face disappeared. Catrin sighed, in pain and worry. Please, all you gods, she thought as she leaned forward, resting some of her weight on the sadle's pommel. Please, don't let Gareth know the child saw. And don't let Rowena tell her mother.
The New Captain of the Guard
Gwenwynwyn ap Greidawl
Deirdre Auburale
Iorwerth ap Greidawl
Her eyes returned to lock with his own. "As it is quite clear, your majesty, your troops are in need of training. The position of the captain of the Guard is open... and I have come here to fill it," a brief pause, "That is, if his majesty accepts my offer and will allow me to prove myself."
Gwenwynwyn eyed the woman with curiosity and some amusement. Her boldness impressed him.
At that moment another man entered the hall. He looked like the king but more compact and with a hell more muscles. He walked right up to the throne and looked the young woman up and down.
"What the hell do you think you are playing at, girl!" He thundered, not amused at her antics.
The woman raised a single eyebrow, calmly yet instinctively appraising the man's abilities as he entered. A seasoned warrior, no doubt. And perhaps a relation of the King himself, unless her eyes decieved her. Out of respect for his abilities, she acknowledged him with a crisp nod, but turned to face the king. "Your majesty?" she asked cooly, making it clear she awaited the abrupt man's introduction.
"My brother, Lord Iorwerth, leader of my armies."
With a nod of gratitude, she turned her head towards Iorwerth once again. "As far as I recall, sir, the position of the Captain of the Guard includes the training the Royal Guard. And I have made it more than clear that the position is in great need." She paused thoughfully, her delicate eyebrows furrowing lightly. "And I hardly find ensuring the safety of the King 'playing,' " she added finally.
Gwenwynwyn held a hand up to stop further words from his brother. "While I agree that proper ettiquite should have been used, I think this young woman provedher words to be true before us. I think that she has the courage, if nothing else, to see that the guards are trained properly."
Deirdre nodded graciously. "Thank you, your highness." She paused again, looking uncomfortable, and Wyn realized that she was not a woman of words, but of actions. "If you desire," she began again, "I would be happy to perform a task or such to prove my worthiness." Her voice strengthened suddenly, as if signifying her strength of will. "I can assure you, however, that I will perform my duties to the utmost." She left unspoken that her duties may include the protection of the king with her own life.
Iorwerth looked angry. The last couple of months he had been training the guard himself for want of someone to do it for him. And he felt hurt in his pride that a mere woman could have outfoxed him. But unlike his brother he couldn't talk about it so he just grunted.
"Iorwerth, have a page show her to her place in the women's barracks and then show her around. Explain to her what she should know," Gwenwynwyn ordered of his brother.
Iorwerth shot his brother an extremely annoyed look. He was in no mood to babysit a woman! His wife was leaving for Dinas Dwr and he didn't feel good about that, his youngest son to a possible dangerous border and his elder on was severly injured. No Lord Iorwerth was not in the best of moods.
Deirdre nodded, stepping backwards from the throne. Although she had never 'appeared' in court before, she was aware she had just been dismissed.
And put in the hands of his brother.
With a practiced move, she turned swiftly and pulled the hood of her cloak back over her head. Her shimmering emerald eyes met Iorwerth's baleful gaze. She stood silently, awaiting his next move.
Maelona Dossen
"Waiting at Court"
The Main Hall
-------------------
Mae was led up to her new chambers and was happy to find a blazing fire and warm bath awaiting her. She quickly stripped off her dust covered riding habit and climbed into the tub. She scrubbed herself thoroughly, allowing her sore muscles to relax. A half hour passed and eventually she stepped out of the tub, rubbing her body down with a dry towel. Mae walked over to her luggage and pulled out a gown, fit for court and other fine occasions. Slipping on the deep green velvet material, she placed her hands on her slender hips and looked into the mirror, she winced. "They are always so uncomfortable!" Mae murmured to herself. Tugging at the sides dress, she walked over to the dresser. Quickly, she braided her hair and tied it into a bun, then adding a bit of color to her lips and cheeks. Glimpsing one last time at the mirror, Mae smiled approvingly and left her room.
She fumbled her way around the castle asking for directions, when finally she approached the main hall. A thunderous yell echoed through the room and Mae raised an eyebrow, intrigued. She quietly entered from the back and worked her way through the large mass of lords and ladies. Reaching the front of the group, Mae stood alongside several gentleman and watched as the events unraveled.
A young woman had approached the King at his throne, Mae was unsure of her name or business here in court. Standing next to the girl was a man similar in features to the King himself, but much more muscular and rugged. Areena heard his highness speak for the first time, "My brother, Lord Iorwerth, leader of my armies." Mae took note of every face, attempting to learn as much as she could before it was her time to speak in court. As the conversation between the mysterious girl and the king continued, Mae realised the girl was here to fill the position of captain of the guard. She was now able to put a name with the face, Deirdre. Mae locked the girl into her memory, this lively young lady was going to go places, Mae noted the spark which lit up her eyes, it reminded her of herself. She silently and patiently awaited her turn to approach the king.
Gwri the Squire
"Gwri Returns"
The Main Hall
Gwri stopped his horse just outside the castle's main gate. The ride was long but his task was very important for his current errant knight. The Saxon had need of an interpreter and messenger and both were jobs that Gwri excelled at. Since no knight had taken him as theirs he was still a knightless squire but each knight Gwri had worked for taught him a great deal.
Upon turning his horse over to a stable hand Gwri took the roll of parchment tucked between his horses saddle and the blanket under it. The wax seal that held it closed was smudged but still unbroken, for which Gwri sighed relief. He had feared that the position would have damaged the note further but fate was with him this day.
As Gwri reached the palace guard his breath was quick and shallow. The ride had taken quite a bit out of him but his deed was nearly done. After the guards stopped him Gwri told them of his mission and he was allowed entrance into the castle grounds.
"Gwri, in a hurry?!?"
The voice caused Gwri to turn without stopping. He raised a hand to salute his friend but his task was still unfinished so he could not stop. However, Gwri gave his friend a look of utter exhaustion and then a smile. A slight laugh from his friend showed Gwri that his friend understood how he felt. Few things were as gratifying than the knowledge that they did their jobs with fervor.
In a short matter of time Gwri was able to make his way to the main hall of the castle. And to his dismay he saw that there was a mass of lords and ladies awaiting their chance to gain the kings ear for a few seconds. Luckily Gwri did not have business with the royalty this day but he knew that he was somewhat unsightly. Before entering Gwri took a few seconds to tidy himself up a bit. The royal guard who stood outside the royal hall hardly suppressed a snicker as Gwri did this.
Finally the older of the guards looked at the young squire.
"You look fine good sir. Please enter."
Brushing his hand through his hair one last time Gwri nodded a thanks to the guard and entered the hall. He took a few seconds to scan the crowd to find the man he was looking for. Finding him, Gwri carefully made his way toward the front of the crowd. He was very apologetic to those whom he had to brush against as he did so.
The large and burly Irish knight who had needed Gwri's assistance turned as he felt someone approach behind him in the crowd. He was visibly pleased to see Gwri and even more so to see the message that the squire had in his hand.
"Your lord sends his greetings and a hearty thank you for your message, good knight," Gwri told the knight in nearly flawless Irish Gaelic. "He says that his stay was comfortable and that he shalln't be needing your protection on his journey home."
But the knight heard nary a word from Gwri as he read the letter. His broad smile shown brightly on his face as he finished the letter. Then his attention turned to the king for his turn to speak was nearly up.
Gwri had known his place since he had first arrived at court those long years ago and he lightly bowed to the knight and slowly backed away from him. He was used to the fact that most knights rarely acknowledged a squire who was not their own, but they were quick to use one who did not presently have a knight. Then Gwri looked to the king and gave a respectful bow.
"A not so perfect working rlationship"
by Deirdre, captain of the guard
Lord Iorwerth
With a practiced move, she turned swiftly and pulled the hood of her cloak back over her head. Her shimmering emerald eyes met Iorwerth's baleful gaze. She stood silently, awaiting his next move.
Iorwerth ground his teeth, but he wouldn't go against his brother's wishes in public. They would have a nice personal fight about this later. "Come with me woman." He said tersely.
Deirdre eyed Iorwerth coolly as he turned gruffly and led her towards the door. As she wordlessly followed, her eyes roved across the grand architecture and the magnificent paintings. Ancestors of the king, she assumed, lined the corridor they walked through, their eyes almost following the oddly matched pair. Mentally, she compared the ghostly figures to the man walking before her. She could definitely see the resemblance.
"You don't like me much, do you?" Her calm voice broke the terse silence between them.
"That's putting it mildly, lady. I don't like wet behind the ears lasses criticizing my work." He growled. "You are damned lucky I don't fight women!"
Again, Deirdre carefully appraised him. He was a seasoned warrior, most probably quite talented with the blade - which was, unfortunately, her failing. But, of course, it wasn't something she often advertised. "Perhaps," was her thoughtfully murmured reply. "But I was not aware that the General of the Armies normally took charge of the guard. Their training was the only thing that lacked.
As the corridors became plainer and narrower, a though occurred to the hooded woman. "The woman's barracks are to the far side of the castle?" she asked.
"No." he said gruffly. "They are in the center. Well protected."
Deirdre continued on, unperturbed. "I would like servants quarters," she said simply. "I assume the king has at least one servants room near his to attend to him in the oddest hours? If so, I would like to be put there."
"Don't count on it, lady. You will have to proof yourself to me before I will let you near my brother. You are a stranger here, loud, a braggart and a woman!"
Deirdre nodded swiftly in approval, surprising the warrior. "Good. I would have been suspicious had you said otherwise. Your brother is too trusting - either in my conscience or your abilities."
She stopped, halting their progress through the stone corridor. Her tone dropped to become more serious and less easily heard, but had he been trying to gauge her truthfulness in expression, he would have found it nearly impossible - only her glittering eyes were visible underneath the hood that hid her so well.
"And how would you prefer I 'prove' myself... at least in your eyes?"
Iorwerth was steaming again. He wasn't a man who talked easily or well and he regretted that right now. "My abilities, you are judging my abilities! I have kept my brother's realm safe since the time you were in swaddling clothes and you dare to question how I run things!" His voice boomed through the halls.
Deirdre almost stopped breathing. Her jaw clenched dangerously as she eyed the furious man carefully. "And you cannot accept the fact that someone may excel your protective abilities," she said tightly, tired of
babying the king's 'baby' brother.
"Especially a woman," she couldn't resist adding.
"Women have no place fighting." He growled. "And no I don't mind advice, I welcome it. But from seasoned warriors who have proved themselves. I have even taken it from women once or twice. But I will not take it from a pup like you. Nor will my brother when he comes to his senses!"
Simply glaring at him, Deirdre did her best to keep from showing him exactly what she could do, right there in the corridor. Perhaps her youth had been an asset before - she had learned quickly from her traveling companions - but it had proven to be quite a hindrance in this case.
"We shall see." Her voice was harsh, grating, almost masculine in its intensity. It was not the voice of a demure or weak female at all.
"It is not your decision that matters, Lord Iorwerth, but your brothers. And may the God's bestow upon him the wisdom you lack," she bit back sharply. Storming past him, she flew through the hallways as if on wings, determined to begin her stay here at Abertawe without the help of the king's brother.
And that began by finding an empty room.
Iorwerht growled something about women and then left to find his own duties.
"The Mystic Joins"
Sir Shawn Greython, Knight of Water
Sir Brendan ap Iorwerth
Magden McRein, Mystic
[ castle gates, Alban, Albertawe ]
Magden hurried towards the castle, as he hoped to make it there before the knights and calvary departed for Cylidd. The sun had yet to rise so the cobbled streets were still quit. An old man by the standards of his land and home, he still appeared to be in prime condition. His many years of traveling in lands across the seas taught him much.
The man rounded the last corner and saw the castle several hundred feet beyond. Magden could also see that the main gates where open and a score of mounted men rode out. He smiled, as he knew he was still in time and stepped out onto the main road to stand before the oncoming soldiers.
As the first of the calvary approached the smiling man called out, "I would speak with the Knights, if you please?"
Brendan brought his stallion to the front a little irritable. He didn't like the delay. "Get out of the way, old man! What do you want with us anyway?" he demanded.
The Mystic looked up to the mounted man with an amused smile, "That is very un-knightly, but best saved for a conversation at another time. I am Magden McRein, I am what many may call a mystic, a seer if you will. Spirit has blessed and cursed me with sights of the future and at times from the past. Now of course these visions I see are mere possibilities, but I have learned to take all that I see seriously. In most cases what I see does come to pass." The older man could see that the younger knight was becoming very irritable and he knew he'd soon loose his opportunity if he did not come to the point soon.
"Believe what you will, good knights," he nodded to the older knight in the background who was also listening, "but I have seen what will come to pass for you and all of Cylidd, many days hence. A large force from Nethbo will march on Cylidd and attack and lay waste to the city. Sending balls of flame, come the dawn, into the city. Many will perish. Spirit also showed me the death of yourselves amoung many others, within the small keep there. This I give you as a warning. I would also ask that you let me accompany you to Cylidd? Our paths are ment to cross. Know young knight that choice is yours, but also know I will make my way to Cylidd should you refuse. I will have but one more chance to offer a warning to you before what I saw will come to pass. What say you?" as the old man said all he could say his pericing gasze passed over Sir Shawn but then feel and remained upon young Sir Brendan.
Brendan shook his head. He didn't really believe in mystics. It was just the rantings of an old man, but the old fool could scare his soldiers. He could already hear murmers running through the ranks. That's why he turned to Shawn for advice. That's why the older knight was here anyway.
Shawn knew of mystics; some were doomsayers, that only said things tongain attention on themselves for a short bout of glory or money; others were blessed by God for purposes beyond what normal men could comprehend. He was not sure which category this man fell into, but he would not simply dismiss something that could be critical to their mission ahead. "He may ride with me, on one of my horses." Shawn turned to his squire, "Fetch him a steed and be quick about it." Turning back to the column of men, Shawn finished with "Press onwards Sir Brendan, we will catch up shortly. If what he says is true, then time is of the essence and we should leave with no delay."
Magden nodded and responed, "My thanks to ye."
Brendan was not pleased with the other's knights decision, but he had asked for the man's help and he would go with it. So he nodded and turned to the mystic. "You have heard the knight. Just make sure you don't cause any trouble." He said and then gave his horse the spurs.
The older man smiled as the young moved off to join the others. This would indeed be an interesting adventure.
"Meeting the rest of the family"
by Lady Isa
Deidre
Isa had found her husband coming home growling a little later. She let him cool down. When he was in one of his moods it was impossible to get anything out of him, but she knew him long enough to know that he would tell when he calmed down. His wife was one of the few people Iorwerth had no trouble talking to. So she soon found out about his clash with the young woman.
Isa had shook her head and chided him for his ungentlemanly behavior. And then set out to search for the young woman. She was the one who kept social relationships civil at court, had done so for years for her brother-in-law. And she wanted to meet the young lady who had upset her husband so.
She finally found Deirdre, alone on a small bench near the garden. Her cloak had been folded neatly at her side, no longer covering the long waves of raven hair that tumbled freely along her back, playfully moving in the light wind. A small pack sat at her feet and a tall chestnut stallion pushed his muzzle into the folds, eagerly looking for a treat.
"Captain." She spoke out firm but soft. "Could I have a word? I am Isa, the king's regular busy body." She smiled kindly.
The young woman's eyes never left the blade she was quietly polishing. "Pleased to meet you," was her short reply. Isa blinked in surprise - the woman hadn't seen her approach, yet did not look at all surprised to hear her speak.
Finally, her eyes flickered upwards, meeting the gaze of the striking blond-haired woman before her. She couldn't help but stare at the oddity of the bright hair in combination with her sapphire blue eyes, deep as the ocean. "What can I do for you, my lady?" she asked, attempting to be less brusque than before.
"I've come to see how good you are, captain. For I will be going to visit my son in Dinas Dwr soon and I need an escort then. I was thinking that you would do nicely." Isa said not taking her eyes of the young woman. "It would help you prove yourself to a certain hardheaded nitwit."
Interest flickered upon Deirdre's face as she gently slipped the worn sword back into its scabbard. "Then everyone knows of Lord Iorwerth's dislike of me?" she asked before she could curb herself. She was more interested in knowing why the tall woman trusted her more than Iorwerth.
"No, my dear not everyone. But he just spend an hour griping about it in our bedroom." Isa said with a grin.
Unhidden surprise registered upon the hopeful-captain's face, and she motioned for Isa to sit. "Your husband?" she repeated in shock, then shook her head with certainty. "He would never allow it."
The blue eyes focused on the younger woman. "And what makes you think he has any say in that matter." She said twinkling.
Deirdre simply rolled her eyes. "He thinks he has a say in everything," she sighed, exasperated. Straightening, an apologetic look passed quickly across her face. "No offense, my lady," she continued quickly.
Isa smiled. "He's an old warhorse, not that used to women fighters. You will have to prove yourself to him. It will be hard, but once you have him, you won't have a more loyal supporter. Not even the king. So take the effort, my girl."
Standing, the to-be-captain easily slipped the large sword onto her horse's back. Her eyes flashed powerfully as a determined line set upon her lips. "I would be honored to escort you anywhere. Tell me what needs to be done to assure your trust in me, and I shall do it."
"You need to prepare an escort. I will leave for Dinas Dwr in a few days time to visit my son at the court there. And in these times I don't know how safe the roads are."
Deirdre blinked, surprised. The woman was confident in her abilities to judge Deirdre's worthiness. The fighter found it unnerving, at best. "Would you prefer the king's men or some I find on my own?" she asked, having faltered for only a moment.
"Well, I can give you a few names of good men. You haven't been around that long. Ask Sergeant Howell, he will pick good men for you. Tell him I send you. He is a good ally to have." She grinned. "And he knows how to handle Iorwerth in one of his moods as well."
Her dark waves tumbled over her shoulders as she bowed deeply. "As you wish, my lady," she said. This wasn't what she was expecting at all.
Of course, what exactly had she been expecting?
"Do come and see me if you need my assistance, my dear." Isa said. "And I would like us to have lunch tomorrow to discuss our trip further."
The raven haired girl stared at the woman for nearly a full two seconds before nodding her acquiescence. She wasn't accustomed to having someone so quickly trust her... not for a long time. Against her own will, she was starting to like Lady Isa.
Isa nodded. "Good I will expect you at noon then. Ask anyone were to find me." With a last smile Isa left her.
Confrontation
Iorwerth
Gwenwynwyn
After his desasterous meeting with the new captain of the guard, Iorwerth made his way over to his brother's big hall. What was Wyn thinking off, springing a woman on him, without telling him. Allowing a slip of a girl to make a fool of him.
"Wyn." His voice boomed although he wasn't even aware of it. "We need to talk." Some folk in the hall, grinned but were carefull to hide it from the lord. He was famed for his temper but all knew how easily Wyn and Isa were able to handle him normally.
"It can wait until I finish business matters. These good folk were here before you to make their petition." Gwenwynwyn knew to stall his brother to give him a chance to cool down so that he didn't make a fool of himself.
Iorwerth stomped out of the hall. He went down to the stables to spend time with his horses and dogs. His squires and the stable boys knew better then to bother him now and left their lord to his own devices while he calmed a little.
"Werth?" Wyn called out as he entered the stable. He hadn't meant to keep his brother waiting an hour, but that was the quickest he could get through the business at hand. "You wanted to talk?" he asked when he found him.
Iorwerth went on brushing the horse, ignoring his brother. "I wanted to talk an hour ago. But you were to high and mighty busy. And if you feel I have done a poor job looking after your guard for you on top of my castles, your army and all, you could have said so in a civil manner there was no need to shove a woman in there!"
"Werth, you know that I had petitioners and that I cannot be partial to one and still be fair to another. The petitioners that come to you when you are in your holds are dealt with according to the same fashion." He picked up a brush of his own. A hand and a shake of his head held the stablehands back as they came forward with their protests.
"Because of the fact that I don't think you have been doing a poor job, I haven't said anything. You need help. You are pulling yourself in too many directions and not spending enough time taking care of the important matters, such as your family. When is the last time you and your family have been home instead of here?"
"Well, that has been... a while. But I don't mind doing it. I can handle the job. So can Isa. And I certainly don't need a woman to help me. I can do anything better then that, that girl can!"
"That woman deserves her chance like all that come here. You will have more time to see to the armies. When you cannot be here, who would command the guard? You have three children here and more often then not the rest of your family is here too. Surely you would want the best protection that they can have?"
Iorwerth grumbled a little, but that argument got through his defenses. "But a woman? And she is arrogant and disrespectful."
"No more then a brother of mine," Wyn stated without looking across the horse at Iorwerth.
"I am not arrogant. I am a warrior, pure and simple. I am not into politics or pretty talk. Can't do that and you know it. I am stubborn, but I am not arrogant." He growled.
"Aren't you?" Wyn asked. "If you are not so arrogant as everyone thinks, why do you think you can handle everything without help?"
"Because..." Iorwerth started. But he just wasn't a talker like his brother or his wife and he was trapped. "Because." He just grumbled.
Wyn smiled broadly knowing he had won this argument. "Why don't you forget her for a bit and take Rowena out for a ride on her new horse? She's been eager to go out but has kept her promise of not going alone."
"Hmpf." He said. But his eyes brightened at the mention of his youngest daughters name. "Might just do that."
Youthful Revenge ( mid solo post addition)
Abertawe
Rowena, Young Princess
Rowena was glad to escape the looks of Lord Gareth. Something about him made Rowena want to be ill. She was also glad that her mother was taking the Lady Catrin away to talk. She may be only eight years, well almost nine years of birth, but she knew an evil man when she saw him. Ever since she could remember, she had a way of knowing people by how they looked and talked. She did not want to be known by Lord Gareth.
Rowena slipped from the room as the talk swung to matters she did not care about. Instead, Rowena went to the kitchen to find one of the serving lads whom she had befriended. His name was Cedrik and he had been one of the boys who had taught her how to catch a frog. She waited patiently for him to return from the main hall. It seemed forever to her young sense of time.
Finally she saw him, "Cedrik, stop for a moment." Cedrik shook his head, he did not have time to play with the princess as there was work to begun and cook would have his head if he dithered.
Rowena hurried after him, "Then, stop because I command it." She used the most royal voice she could muster, copying her Uncle's imperious tones when he was doing business.
Cedrik screeched to a stop at the tone she used and then glared at her. "This had better be important Ro, I refuse to get into trouble because you wish to play."
Rowena smiled sweetly. "I have a special duty for you when you return to the hall." Rowena quickly explained about Lord Gareth and the fact that she felt he hurts Lady Catrin. Then she outlined her devious plan. "'Remember when we were playing by the creek in the trees? You told me not to climb one tree because it had a poison in its bark. The one that would keep you with a chamber pot for sometime?"
Cedrik nodded his head and smiled, he had a feeling he new where his young friend was headed.
"You said that Cook keeps some of the bark to help with such matters as inability." Rowena was concentrating hard to find the proper words. "Could you get some and slip it into Lord Gareth's next tankard?" She smiled at him with all the pleading and sweetness she could muster. "Not to much, just enough to pay him back?"
Cedrik smiled, it was an easy task that she asked of him but one that could get them both into a great deal of trouble. However, he liked the young princess and would do almost anything for her. "I will do it, but you must not whisper a word of this for I could lose my position and then where would I go?"
Rowena smiled and gave him a big hug. "I promise! Besides, you will always have a position whereever I may go." Rowena didn't stop to think of possible consequences.. as is usual with most young children, she lived in the moment.
Rowena hurried back into the main hall. She couldn't help the smile on her face. Now when she looked at Lord Gareth, her face was lit with anticipation and delight. The change was noticiable but unexplainable to all concerned with in the hall.
It wasn't long before Cedrik entered the hall with the flagon. Rowena knew that she couldn't keep from watching and so took herself off to find her mother. She remembered something her father had said once, "never give yourself away to your enemy."
She hoped he liked his ale and the time he would soon spend indisposed.
"Rewards"
by Thorsys ap Taran
***Thorsys' Provisions Shop***
Night was well into her play upon the world, her stars dancing and glittering, the unattainable beauty in the sky none could reach. Some said every star was a soul, and the birth of a star meant a new life entered this world; when a star faded, it signified the passing of one. Others said the stars were points of great designs, of men and beasts. Some said several of the stars were actually heavenly lands, with their own kingdoms and peoples.
None of this speculation made a difference to Thorsys ap Taran that night. Dressed in a tan shirt and leggings, covered with a dark brown cloak, his face was mostly obscured by a large black scarf. The night was windy, but the breeze helped cloud the sound of Thorsys's movements. The large merchant was by no means stealthy or graceful - but he knew how to be discreet as best he could.
He walked through one of the many streets of Alban, the capital of Abertawe. No one else walked the streets this late at night. Some feared crime or burglary, others feared mythical creatures who stalked at night. "Fairy tales," muttered Thorsys, his disdain for such legends forcing him to speak to himself. He had a job to do.
Finally, he reached what he was looking for. Garwyn's Pub, a rather backwater pub with watered ale, questionable owners, and a reputation for being able to make contact with someone who would have whatever you could scrounge up the shillings for.
Thorsys entered the pub to a gruff old man - the barkeep - wiping a mug with a dirty old rag. He was adding more dirt to the mug than taking dirt off. The pub itself was dark, lit only by a few candles at every table. The patronage kept to themselves on their tables. No one sat at the bar. A rat scurried in the corner, deftly avoiding a rat-trap placed by the establishment. There were three or so other people, all alone, all drinking. Two of them were quietly dozing off, their bodies handling all the drink they could for one night. Thorsys walked towards the table of the only awake patron.
He sat down across from the other person, a woman, with hair roughly cut short, although the strands were of uneven lengths, as if done with a dagger and not by a barber. She had lightly tanned skin and a dark brown mole underneath chapped lips. She wore a dark green cloak, the hood up, obscuring most of her face, including her eyes. Thorsys leaned over to her and whispered, "Do you have the seeds?"
The woman produced a package from underneath the table. It was something wrapped with layers upon layers of paper and held with string. "The money," she said. Her voice was barely feminine - it was cracked and rusty, and tired. Thorsys reached into his pocket and dropped a few coins on the table. They made a rusty sound.
"The money," repeated the woman, a bit louder, her voice cracking even more.
Thorsys began to explain. "Business has been tough. Moving expenses-"
"Money!" wailed the woman, causing the bartender to look at her with an odd eye. It didn't rouse any of the other patrons, who were still snoring contentedly in their sleep. Despite the obvious presence of anger in her voice, her body position did not change at all.
Thorsys put two more coins on the table. "That's all I can do without..." He looked at the woman suspiciously. "Is this really what I think it is?"
With surprising speed, Thorsys untied the knots and unravelled the paper of the package. Inside was about a hundred small, green objects that looked like some sort of cocooned flora. Thorsys' eye made a quick glance, inspecting the product. Then he turned to the woman, who still had no reacted to Thorsys' opening of the package.
"You did good work," the merchant admitted. Then he placed a few more coins on the table. "That'll be eighty percent of what you asked. A fair trade, far more than I expected. Ye'd best remember my generosity, for it will not come by often." Thorsys wrapped up the package and left without saying a word to anyone.
The barkeep, who was still watching, moved from behind the bar and over to the woman's table. "Your regular?" he asked the woman. She made a nodding motion and the barkeep prepared to draw another glass for the heaviest drinker in the room.
***Thorsys' Shop, Three Hours Later***
*Where is he!?* wondered Thorsys. *I should be in bed and warm, instead of freezing mine ass off in night's chill!*
Suddenly, a dark figure made a loud knocking sound at Thorsys' door. He walked towards it and opened it, and a small, lithe figure popped in. He was male, probably in his late forties, a venerable age for most. He had a thick red scarf wrapped around his neck, was slightly hunchbacked, and his head was bald except for large scuffs of grey and white, making it look like a bird's nest. He was an alchemist.
"The sunhopper larvae," whispered the man, in an elderly voice. "Do you have the larvae?"
"I always have them," replied Thorsys. "What do you take me for - a two-bit merchant? Imported from the far east, I can tell ya that. Lost six men on the expedition as well, just for your experiments..." Thorsys made a disgusted sound. "But I trust ye, when ye say it'll be good for humanity and all that rot. Better be worth six men."
"Oh, oh..." the old man seemed a bit distraught. Then he resolved himself. "I've got to have those larvae. Seven pounds, was it? Oh dear, there goes my daughter's emergency..." The old man seemed to be questioning himself again. "No, no, the ends outweigh the consequences. Seven pounds."
Thorsys handed over the package to the old man. He expected him to leave, but instead, the alchemist stayed. "Here. Take a few pennies for the families of the men who... who... who were lost."
"I'll ask the gods themselves to bless 'em - and you," replied Thorsys sincerely. The old man nodded in acknowledgement and left.
Seven pounds AND a few extra pennies. Thorsys was quite pleased with himself. Then he went into has back room and looked into the jar where he'd placed half of the larvae or seeds or whatever they were from the woman. The old man would be back. They all eventually would.
"Court Policies"
Maelona Dossen
Throne room/ Court
Late in the afternoon
Mae had arrived at court nearly an hour ago and she was still planted in the exact same spot. The King had been busy talking with other Lords and Ladies, as he was still doing at the moment. Tired and a bit annoyed Mae decided to try and locate any of the other Knights, she politely pushed her way through the crowds until she reached the back of the room. There she found a young man relaying a message to whom, she assumed, a lower knight of Abertawe. When their conversation was finished the older man walked away and left the young man standing alone. Mae watched him for a minute and noted his deep green tunic had no emblem upon it. Eventually she decided to approach the young man, she thought at the very least it would free her from boredom. She brushed out her dress and slowly walked towards the page, "Excuse me, lad..."
Meetings
Derek Quinn
Lady Branwen ferch Iorwerth
***************************
Derek walked threw the woodlands. How he loved the wilderness. His friends pranced beside him, enjoying the outing as much as he. He smiled down at his hounds. They have been his friends for many adventures, never leaving his side. In a short while he would be in another town. He looked forward to sleeping in a bed tonight. The hackles on his dogs started to rise, It appeared that he wasn't the only one on the road today.
Branwen had slipped away from her maids in the early mornings. She was old enough to be treated as an adult now, but still her dad and brother didn't like her to go out of the castle on her own. Like she hadn't learnt to take care of herself with two other brothers. Hawk and Brendan had tought her how to take care of herself. And she loved to roam the woods on her own. Bran loved the wilds the animals, the flowers, trees. She could lose herself for hours here. While she was here she avoided people as much as she could. So when she heard a dog bark a little up ahead she moved away from the path.
Kneeling down, Derek stroked the backs of his beloved dogs. Looking in the driection which the dogs were pointing, he spied a piece of a cloth from a lovely dress. Who ever she was, she had a talent for hiding in the wilds. If it wasn't for his many years as a ranger, he would of never seen her. Well unless bandit's in this area were very well off, he might as well introduce himself. "Greetings."
Branwen couldn't very well hide any longer, so she stepped forward. "Hello." She tried to act shyly, eying the stranger. She wasn't scared but very much on her guard. A princess could fetch a nice price in some parts, Bran was glad that she hadn't put on her best clothes. She never did when she went roaming the woods. "Passing by?"
"Yes, I was heading to that small town up ahead. I don't know it's name though." He backed up a bit, to try to ease her worries. The roads were loaded with bandits these days. Remebering his mannors he said, "Forgive me I am Derek Quinn."
"It's not a small town!" Branwen shot back. "It's our capital. I live there most of the year. My dad works for the king." That was not untrue. "so are you looking for a job or something?" She eyed him curiously. "Are you a hunter?"
Her sudden outburst took him by surpize, Holding his hands up in a defensive postion he replied. "I am sorry my lady. I ment no disrespect to your home." He was glad to see that his etiquette was as poor as ever. "I might be looking for work and yes I am a hunter, a simple hunter." Well that was kinda the truth, rangers were to hunters as the knights were to the comman foot soldier.
"Great. I am sure my father can find you a job, that is if you like. At least you can spend the night at the castle." She said taking care to be hospitable to all, like her mum had tought her.
"At the castle?" Derek asked. "Just how close is your father to the king?" He thought it odd, that somebody who worked for the king could just give out rooms like that.
She flushed. Had it been that obvious. Her mum had raised her not to be arrogant. And besides the man was a stranger, it was not prudent telling people you didn't know you were the king's niece. "Oh they are very old friends." She said airily. "Now if' you'd follow me?"
Derek nodded to the lady and started to follow her. His hounds soon following in step with him. Well he never thought that he would ever get to spend a night in a castle. "There won't be a problem with my friends coming along will there?" He asked pointing down to the dogs, who where happly troting beside him.
"Oh now, daddy loves dogs, so that won't be a problem. He'd love to talk to you." She said with a grin."I'll take you as my personal guest."
"Thank you." They walked a bit in silence. "If I may ask, my lady. Might I know your name?"
"Branwen." She said. "Branwen ferch Iorwerth and you?"
Derek smiled to himself. He must of really upset her, when he called the capital a small town. She didn't hear him give his name. "I'm Derek Quinn."
"Oh right." She grinned. "You said so didn't you? I am sorry, I am a bit pre-occupied. My mum is going away soon and I can't come. It pisses me a bit."
Derek raised an eyebrow, "Oh, how come?"
"That she's not taking me! I haven't seen my brother in years! My brother Hawk, he serves cousin Gwen in Dinas Dwr. I would love to go and mum and dad both told me I have to stay here. It's not fair!"
Derek smiled. This one had fire in her eyes. "I'm sure they must have good reasons." His eyes scaned the woods they traveled threw, everything was quiet. It was never good when the woods grew still. Prehaps the were dark times ahead for the land.
"no they ahve silly reasons. I am an adult now. I can make my own choices. Why can't they accept that?"
Dered chuckled, "That's because they are your parents and will have a hard time seeing you as anything other than the little girl. Give them some time they'll come around."
"My dad? He is stubborn as a mule! you wouldn't believe!" She said.
He chuckled once again. "So how much futher to your castle?"
"Oh our castle is just around the corner." There you can see it now. "We'd better hurry though. If mum finds out I was out in the woods alone." Something like concern was visible on her face now.
Derek grazed at the castle, it was a beautiful piece of work. The stonemasons that build it must of been from the very best from their craft. The keep appeared quite sound and could withstand an attack from the most mighties of armies. He picked up his pace at the statement that they must hurry. "The castle is truely a beautiful site."
"Yeah." Branwen said. "I like it there. My uncle is nice too. But sometimes I miss home. My parents castle is much prettier then this one." She said. "But uncle Wyn needs me so I stay here." She didn't even realise that she had just blurted out that she was no common girl.
Well that explains how she can give out rooms in the castle, Derek thought. He wondered how high up the noble ladder she was. He had a bad feeling she was high on the ladder. "By any chance would your uncle be king?"
"Uhm." She flushed. "Kind of. How did you guess? I don't act like a noble upstart now do I?"
Derek chuckled, "No you don't, but you should try not telling anyone about your castle."
"Oeps. That is not too common is it." They reached the castle walls and the guards nodded friendly towards Branwen and gave him a curious stare. "Shall I take you to my uncle now?"
Derek nodded as they entered the grand castle.
"Cloaked"
by Deirdre Auburale
and Thorsys ap Taran
Thorsys cracked his knuckles as he eased into a hardbacked wooden chair, made the tiniest bit softer by a goose-down pillow. Standing around and talking wasn't the most difficult job, but it sure wasn't a pleasure for Thorsys. No, the best part of his day came when he dumped a bag full of coins on his desk to count the afternoon's profits. But right under his nose, the door was opened quietly, a shadowy figure slipping inside. Thorsys was absolutely oblivious until he heard a quiet clearing of the throat.
Coming to his senses, he faced a cloaked figure; the shadows he had worked so hard to engineer to hide the flaws in his merchandise now worked against him - he couldn't make out a single feature of the face that stared so intently at him now.
"Gah!" yelled the merchant, throwing a handful of silver pennies into the air. Most of them scattered around the desk and on the floor. "Don't... you..."
"I need a cloak," the gruff voice seemed almost reluctant to admit.
"C-cloak?" Thorsys replied. Here was someone who probably could've walked away with half the store, and they asked for a cloak. "Well, then. Perhaps ye might try buying one without utilizing the break-and-entry method of getting into my shop." *City folk,* thought the man bitterly as he got up.
"I'll assume ye want something of light material, dark, so you go snooping or what have ye," Thorsys grumbled as entered the back room of his shop, looking something he could pass off as more valuable than it really was.
Letting out a small sigh, Deirdre slipped the deceptively light cloak off her back. Tossing her head, she let her dark waves tumble past her shoulders, free of the confines of her hood. Perhaps she should have entered more regularly, but being part of society again was taking some getting used to.
Thoughtfully, she rubbed the dark green material of her cloak between her fingers. She had received this cloak when she had begun training. Part of her adamantly denied that she would even need a new one.
But it was the time for change.
Hearing the telltale thumps of merchant returning, she self-consciously folded her cloak in her hands. She shifted awkwardly in her doeskin boots; she would have to apologize for her entrance. And apologies were not her best feature. Instinctively, she fixed her eyes upon his as he re-entered, her emerald eyes glinting.
"Gah!" yelled Thorsys, returning to see a woman in place of that rapscallion of a thief he'd seen before. What demonic trickery was this? Then he noticed the same boots and the same cloak in her hands, and then calmed down. "You're a woman," he said. *Fairer sex my arse,* thought the provisiner grumpily.
She nodded, glancing at the dark cloth in his hands. "I would prefer something appropriate for court," she replied reluctantly. She didn't seem at all happy about the prospect. Her eyes flickered to the dark cloak in her hands longingly. "I'd like to see that one as well, though."
"Court?"
"I am Deirdre Auburale," she began, hesitating for only a second on the next words. "The new captain of the guard."
Captain of the guard! Thorsys lost his shock from this customer being a woman and instead realized a captain of the guard must have had the one thing that mattered most in the world... money. "Captain of the guard, y'say?" he said, trying to sound casual, but the idea of someone from the palace being in his ship was the best thing he heard since moving to Alban.
Ignoring his surprise, she continued. "As I am not often at court, I would appreciate your advice on the proper attire for a captain of the guard." She wasn't willing to admit she had never been at any court before her sudden appearance.
"Well, first off... it's a good thing you came to me. If you had gone to a tailor, they'd have jacked up the price for someone with your..." Thorsys struggled to find the words. Naiveté wasn't the appropriate one when dealing with a rich customer. "...more worldly background. You'll need something fancy, and extravagant, with golds and purples and other colours."
Deirdre felt ill. If the shopkeeper was telling the truth, she was truly considering letting Iorwerth win -the last thing she wanted was to look like a dolled up peacock.
"I think I have something perfect for you," realized Thorsys. He almost flew into his background and back, carrying a thick, velvet red cloak. "It compliments ceremonial armour very well," added the merchant, "And when I got it in, I knew it belong on someone with your authoritative and regal demeanor. There's a mirror right there," he added.
She eyed the cloak with obvious distaste, extending the to the shopkeeper who so easily turned from piteously frightened to complimentary greed. Straight-faced, she took the burgundy cloak in hand, the feel of the soft cloth forcing back old memories she had struggled to keep dormant.
Grudgingly slipping the velvet material over her shoulders, she had to admit the deep red complimented her features, at least. "Must I really wear such a getup?" she asked finally, sighing.
Thorsys looked shocked. "My dear, anyone who's ANYONE in this kingdom has a cloak of such fine taste."
Shrugging her shoulders, the cloak slipped off and into her waiting hands. "Wrap it up," she said carelessly, not sparing it another look. Her attention moved towards the original black cloak he had left hastily upon the counter. After examining it only momentarily, she frowned.
"I need something heavier. Like that," she gestured, motioning towards her lovingly worn cloak. "But I like the black," she added, emphasizing that she wanted no more of the gaudy red material.
Thorsys nodded. "Two it is. I'll give you a quantity discount," he informed the captain of the guard, doing the math in his head for the full price of two cloaks. He searched for a durable, black cloak that would suit Deirdre's order, and then moved towards his counter to wrap them both in paper. Then he smiled - the best part of his job had come up. "That'll be eight shillings."
Digging into her pocket, she carelessly tossed a handful of coins onto the table. "Keep the change," she said, gathering up the two bundles.
"If that will be all," the merchant replied, "I hope you're happy with your purchase and come back here for your future shopping needs." *Remind 'em to come back - some day every shopkeeper will be saying it,* thought Thorsys with satisfaction.
Deirdre nodded, easily slipping her old cloak back over her head. "I plan on it," she assured him, sparing a glance at the double package under her arm. Her glittering eyes focused upon his and Thorsys felt a chill down his spine.
"I trust your judgement with this cloak. For your sake, hope I don't return with that trust broken."
With that, she turned, and just as silently as she had appeared, she was gone, the door swinging lazily in the wind.
Thorsys thought about what Deirdre had said before she left. Then he scoffed. "Humbug," he thought out loud. "Plenty o' customers in the city." Satisfied in his materialistic mind that he'd justified himself, he proceeded to add Deirdre's money to the afternoon's profits and resumed counting.