Before Plantagenet - Chapter 243
January 1132 - Angouleme, Kingdom of Aquitaine
He was the brightest light in her life.
A broad smile came to the face of Queen Ælfflæd as she watched her son, Prince Guilhem, playing in the grass. The child, who would reach his fourth birthday in a few months, happily pranced about with a small wooden sword, swinging it wildly.
It did not even matter that the boy sought to emulate his father, speaking about how he would “beat the bad Bretons” as he played. That he could enjoy himself, vanquishing imaginary foes with his awkward cuts through the air, was one of the few things that Ælfflæd was able to smile about these days.
After all, what else could she brag about? That her husband’s infidelity had once again resulted in her humiliation in front of their court? That she had, in anger, again abandoned him and retreated to self-exile in Angouleme? That there were rumors he was bedding the Duchess of Toulouse?
And looking back home provided little consolation either. Her step-mother, the lowborn Catalan made queen Toda, had already birthed King Thoræd a son. And now news had reached Ælfflæd that she had another half-sibling on the way.
She knew she should be happy for her father - whatever the ill will between them, her time away from England, left her almost missing him. He was gruff, blunt and selfish, but witnessing power up close… and the realization of how much he loved her mother, opened her eyes.
To have chosen me over her… must have broken him, she thought.
But she also could not fully let go her lingering bitterness. Bitterness over being imprisoned. Bitterness over the fact her father was siring more heirs… potentially denying the best choice for the throne, in her eyes, her son. The one who could end the threats to England - both outward and inward.
Bitterness over sending her here in the first place.
But for a little while, that all seemed to fade when she watched Guilhem at play. He was so free, so innocent. And he was handsome - sure she was his mother, but pretty much everyone who looked upon the prince were amazed at his looks.
“He shall have the ladies in this realm lining up to be courted,” Helie had told her.
Of course, that just made Ælfflæd frown again. As if she needed to be reminded of the lecherous nature of his Angevin blood.
On this beautiful early afternoon, however, Ælfflæd was free to enjoy her son. It was warm for a winter day, which afforded Guilhem the opportunity to run about to his heart’s content after having been cooped up in the manor for a while now.
And the queen was hoping to use this as a teaching moment as the prince stabbed his sword and then shouted “You’re beaten King Abby!”
Ælfflæd chuckled at her son struggling to pronounce the name of the Irish petty king Abbain of Munster, but then approached him.
In her Saxon tongue, she said: “You’re beaten King Abbain!”
Guilhem looked at her with brow raised. “What mama?”
“In your mama’s tongue,” Ælfflæd began. “That is how it is said - ‘you’re beaten King Abbain.’ Can you try saying it?”
“Are you really going to force this upon him?”
Ælfflæd turned her gaze back toward the manor. Standing just a few feet away from her was her cousin, Duchess Adelise of Mercia, who had arrived in Angouleme the day before for a visit.
“Just because you don’t know how to properly speak your mother’s tongue does not mean my son must suffer the same fate,” Ælfflæd replied.
“I know how to speak it,” Adelise retorted. She cleared her throat and said, in Saxon, “I just choose not to.”
“Elf said speak it properly. Whatever you just said wasn’t that.”
Ælfflæd turned her gaze to the tall woman standing beside Adelise. But the Duchess of Mercia simply smirked at Aevis of Lancaster.
“Well, we can’t all be as masterful with our tongues as you, little sister,” Adelise replied, again in Saxon.
“Mama!” Guilhem exclaimed. Then in Saxon, he said, quickly: “You’re defeated King Abby!”
It was a bit of a garbled mess, but she smiled once more, knelt and squeezed her son tightly. Her boy made the effort to please her, and that was enough.
Aevis smirked. “I dare say he speaks it better than you, Adi.”
Adelise rolled her eyes before shaking her head. But Ælfflæd’s smile remained - at least the sisters provided some entertainment.
The pair had come to Angouleme together - the first time Ælfflæd had seen them since her mother’s funeral a few years ago. But the queen’s focus then had been so much on her mother and the situation in England, she had spent precious few moments with her younger cousin. And in the process, had missed how much Aevis had changed.
For starters, Ælfflæd was surprised at how tall Aevis was. It was true nearly everyone seemed tall to the queen, given her small stature. But the 19-year-old Duchess of Lancaster towered over most women, and plenty of men, standing at least a head and a half over her older sister Adelise.
Given the old stories of her great-grandfather William the Bastard being a large man, Ælfflæd suspected Aevis was just the product of that inheritance.
But though tall, Aevis was not very robust. She was lanky and thin, and quite possibly weighed less than Ælfflæd… and certainly less than Adelise.
But then Adelise had been a mother four times over already, having spent the majority of the half decade pregnant. Aevis had yet to have her first child, despite being married when she came of age.
Ælfflæd couldn’t help but wonder if that was the result of being wed to a much older man - nearly a half century her elder - since Adelise, their mother Gunhilda, Ælfflæd herself, and her late mother Queen Wulfrun never had much trouble having children.
Her own flesh and blood made himself known at the moment, grabbing hold of the skirt of his mother’s dress and then pressing against her leg. Glancing down, she could see he was nervous - even though he’d met them the day before, Guilhem wasn’t yet used to the Norman duchesses.
“It’s alright little prince,” Aevis said as she came close to them. “We’re just your mama’s cousins.”
Guilhem had been peeking his head out from behind Ælfflæd. But he completely moved behind her after hearing Aevis’ words.
“It appears your sweet words might play well with some, but not the prince,” Adelise said.
“I haven’t much practice with children,” Aevis replied.
“No worries cousin,” Ælfflæd said. “You are not much above a child yourself.”
“I am nearly 20 years,” Aevis said as she pouted her lips. “I have not been a child for some time.”
“But no child of your own just yet,” Adelise said. “Despite being married for almost four years.”
“We have not all been blessed with a womb as fruitful as yours, Adi,” Aevis said. “A daughter born last year and already filled again.”
Ælfflæd’s brow rose. “You’re pregnant?”
Adelise nodded. “It is early yet, but yes. However, this trip had been in the planning long before, and if there is one thing I have learned by now, it is how to travel while with child.”
Given the difficulties Ælfflæd experienced during her first pregnancy, going from central England to the middle of Francia was not something she could have imagined doing, even at the early stages.
“I stand in awe of you cousin,” Ælfflæd said. “I mean that, truly.”
Adelise blushed. “You need not make such a big deal of such things. My husband does, and it annoys me to no end. He did not want for me to come. But how could I not? We have much to discuss.”
“There you go again,” Aevis said. “Trying to get her hopes up.”
Adelise shook her head. “Our queenly cousin is no doubt curious over what happens in her home. I just seek to provide such information.”
“I would think being a queen of such a prosperous land, which now extends to the shores of the channel, she would already know of such things, Adi,” Aevis said.
There was truth to that. Ælfflæd did know her father’s second wife had birthed him a new son and was pregnant once more. But how that affected Prince Guilhem’s chances at the throne was unknown to her.
After all, it was possible there could be a split in support between her half-brother and nephew. Not to mention the talk of moving away from the Stawell family for the crown. The more factions, the stronger Adelise and Aevis’ influence could become… and Guilhem’s chances with them.
That was the big reason the pair had come to Angouleme - for a meeting with family she could trust. But they were short one, for Ælfflæd had also been expecting her aunt, the duchesses’ mother, Gunhilda of Somerset.
“I’ve been meaning to ask you,” Ælfflæd began. “For I was expecting Auntie to visit as well. But here you two are, without her. Is she alright?”
“As far as I know,” Adelise said. “But then Aevis spoke with her last.”
Aevis stroked her long chin. “Mother… is not ailing. She was kept away by our stepfather, the Duke of Somerset. He wished to come with her, but she thought, given his reputation, and the talk of problems between you and your husband, cousin, that it would be best if he remained away. And he did not permit her to join us.”
Ælfflæd frowned at that news. She really wanted to see Aunt Gunnie, if for no other reason than the lady reminded her a bit of her late mother. Her daughters bore some resemblance… but nieces could not match a sister.
“She sends along her regards, and her sympathies for your marital current situation,” Aevis added.
The queen nodded. If anyone understood her frustration, it would be Gunhilda.
“So, what is there to discuss?” Ælfflæd asked.
“The continued uncertainty over succession,” Adelise said.
“Because of my stepmother’s pregnancy?” Ælfflæd wondered.
“You already have a half-brother,” Adelise said. “Even if she births a boy, the situation won’t change much. But as it stands, things are very much divided between remaining with the Stawell line, or seeking a new direction.”
“And that is what I mean,” Aevis interjected. “I know you seek to make our queenly cousin believe that her son is a strong candidate.”
“Because he is,” Adelise said. “We can make him one together.”
Aevis sighed. “It is not that simple.”
“Can the two of you stop speaking to each other and address me?” Ælfflæd demanded. “Especially since this involves my son.”
Aevis nodded. “It is just that Adi believes we can bully your son onto the throne. But she seems to ignore the damage it will do to England when the country is torn apart by resistance to another foreign William.”
“Because the people of England shall greatly love the rule of Burgheard or Maud,” Adelise said. “Closer descendants to William than even we are!”
“But more Saxon than the Prince of Aquitaine!” Aevis noted. “And that is the problem.”
“So use that silver tongue of yours to convince the lords otherwise,” Adelise retorted.
“It is not that simple, and you know it,” Aevis said.
“Should I consider returning?” Ælfflæd asked. “Would that help matters?”
Both sisters frowned at the question. Meanwhile, Prince Guilhem tugged at Ælfflæd’s leg.
“Mama… are you talking about me?” he asked.
Ælfflæd’s heart skipped a beat. She was speaking about this glibly as she had in the past. But her son had not been present then… or at the very least, not capable of understanding he was the subject of the discussion. That was no longer the case.
Smiling, she said: “Don’t worry my sweet. It is nothing.”
“Perhaps it would be best to leave this until later,” Aevis said.
Ælfflæd nodded and pulled her cloak close as a cold wind blew through. The sky was starting to darken, and a cold rain might be en route. It was time to return to the manor.
Once they were inside, Ælfflæd was approached by Helie. At first, she thought the old woman was there to take the prince, but instead she brought news.
“My lady, a visitor is en route,” Helie told her.
Helie likely did not divulge the identity because of the presence of Ælfflæd’s cousins, but the queen suspected that was revealing enough.
Rolling her eyes, Ælfflæd said: “If it is the Count of Limousin, tell him I will not permit him to reside in the manor. I will have my men forcibly block him if necessary.”
She had her reservations about the count before - as the man was the one who impregnated Princess Aines. But, against her better judgment, she had allowed him to stop at the manor one evening en route back to Limousin.
He had attempted to woo her, speaking of Geoffrey’s affairs, her humiliation and talk of retribution. But Ælfflæd knew that would lead her down a road she could not come back from. Thankfully, she had learned from her years around the lecherous Duke of Somerset to always keep trustworthy ladies nearby.
And so she was quick to call for Helie and Benoite, putting an end to that. She also sent word north to Geoffrey in Brittany, informing him the Count of Limousin had made an untoward pass at her, that was rejected - there was no way she wanted any possible rumor of infidelity to spread.
But Helie shook her head at the mention of the count. And the identity of the guest left Ælfflæd stunned.
“It is the queen-mother, my lady,” Helie revealed. “Come from Bordeaux.”
“Geoffrey sent her?” Ælfflæd asked.
“She said she brings no word from your husband,” Helie replied. “I know not what she desires.”
Ælfflæd found it odd. Marguerite never cared for her. Why should she wish to meet now?
“When will she arrive?” Ælfflæd asked.
“Before nightfall,” Helie said. “A rider brings advance word.”
“Thank you, Helie,” Ælfflæd said. “Have the servants prepare rooms for her and her traveling party.”
The old woman nodded and bowed before instructing some of the other ladies to handle the preparations. Meanwhile, Adelise and Aevis came up beside the queen.
“Will you meet with her?” Adelise asked.
“Why wouldn’t she?” Aevis replied. “It’s her mother-by-law!”
“Whom she does not get along well with,” Adelise noted. “The woman has been rather… unkind to our sweet cousin.”
“You have a talent for understatement, cousin,” Ælfflæd replied. “But I have no choice. There is a certain decorum expected. And… I am curious as to what she wants, as she claims my husband did not send her.”
“It is good for you to realize what is expected,” Aevis said. “With a mind to appearances. It is something that is too often lacking.”
The glare that Adelise threw Aevis’ way was enough for Ælfflæd to raise her brow. But the Duchess of Mercia turned her attention back to her cousin quickly enough.
“Would you like us there?” Adelise asked. “She will certainly be tamer with your family present.”
“You’d be surprised,” Ælfflæd said. “Her tongue is quite sharp. And she will no doubt get me alone at some point. But yes, cousins, your presence would be welcome when we sup.”
With that, the queen gave her son off to Helie, and then left her cousins so that she might properly prepare herself for her mother-by-law. Regardless of her feelings toward Marguerite, Ælfflæd knew full well she had to present herself in a certain manner. Otherwise, a difficult situation would be made even worse.
She had Benoite de Bourges oversee the servant girls as they went to work on her appearance. But when they were half done, they were interrupted by the Duchess of Mercia’s arrival at her chambers.
“Already looking lovely, cousin,” Adelise said. “It shames me to know they are only half done.”
Ælfflæd raised a brow. Overt flattery really wasn’t necessary.
“Have you need of something, cousin?” Ælfflæd asked.
“A few moments of your time,” Adelise said. “Alone, if possible.”
Ælfflæd wasn’t completely certain Marguerite was above lying about her distance away to surprise her by arriving early, so she was hesitant to delay her preparations. But she gave in, since her cousin was her guest and a certain level of hospitality was expected.
“I hope this is important,” Ælfflæd said. “I don’t wish to be caught half-prepared when Marguerite arrives.”
“I will delay her if necessary,” Adelise promised. “I am hardly nobody.”
“I can never really tell if something like that matters,” Ælfflæd said. “The woman seems to enjoy misery.”
“Unfortunate,” Adelise said. “And you have no idea why she comes to see you now?”
Ælfflæd shook her head. “I don’t speak to her enough to know such things. Perhaps it is about Geoffrey, but she feared I would not meet with her if she spoke the truth. Or maybe she speaks on his behalf without his consent.”
“Do you think it is because Aevis and I are present?” Adelise asked.
Ælfflæd hadn’t considered that. But Marguerite had to know about the plan to see Guilhem made King of England. Adelise and Aevis visit wasn’t a secret and likely only increased speculation to that end.
“Perhaps…” Ælfflæd said. “But what could she say?”
“I’m uncertain,” Adelise said. “I worry though. We have enough naysayers as is.”
Ælfflæd didn’t like hearing that. At times this seemed a true longshot. And anything to make it harder was unwelcome.
“Does this have to do with Aevis?” Ælfflæd asked.
Adelise nodded. “With the growing factions in England, if Mercia and Lancaster banded together in support of your son, we would be nearly there. But Aevis is not convinced.”
“Doing so will tear England apart?” Ælfflæd said.
“So she says,” Adelise said. “She tells me I am a dreamer, with no foresight to what would come. That I risk bringing ruin to Mercia and my people. I think she is too fearful at best. And at worst, letting her jealousy of you get the better of her.”
“Jealous… of me?” Ælfflæd asked. “Why would you think that?”
“Because she has said as much to me,” Adelise said. “She said you do not understand how fortunate you are. What was it… oh ‘she is a queen to a handsome man, who has already sired a son with her! We should all be as unlucky as she!’”
Ælfflæd’s eyes widened. A heat in her face she had not felt since the night of Herve’s funeral returned.
“She… she thinks me fortunate to be humiliated by my husband… twice?!” Ælfflæd demanded.
“Aevis is younger than us,” Adelise said. “And while eloquent in word, not the brightest of women. She does not look deeper - she sees a comely, brave king and thinks that is all one could want. That lack of vision… is why she struggles to see how we all would benefit from your son’s ascension.”
Ælfflæd continued to frown. “Perhaps she is incapable of seeing.”
“Perhaps,” Adelise said. “But do not let it deter you. Do not let her… or your mother-by-law, either. Instead, steel yourself and stay the course. If you do… I believe others will fall in behind, my sister among them.”
….
Supper was a mix of emotions for Ælfflæd.
Marguerite was courteous - perhaps more so than she’d ever been to the queen. Ælfflæd guessed part of that was due to her cousins' presence. But then again, Marguerite had not taken Ana with her - a genuine surprise - and Ælfflæd felt like her mother-by-law could have still navigated the duchesses and still gotten in her digs.
Meanwhile, her cousins proved tricky enough on their own.
It took a great deal of restraint for Ælfflæd not to lose her temper every time Aevis spoke, just for the fact she believed the duchess wished to bed her husband.
If she thinks me fortunate… if she desires my husband… she cannot be on my side.
And if Marguerite had come to see about the plans for Prince Guilhem, she did not let on. She did ask Adelise and Aevis about their homelands, as well as England. She also regaled the story of how King Thoræd had once, rather forcefully, felt her belly while she carried the future king Geoffrey.
But otherwise, she did not seem interested in the politics of England, leaving Ælfflæd to wonder once more why her mother-by-law had come.
She would not have to wait long, however, as Marguerite requested to meet with Ælfflæd after supper. Again Adelise had offered company, but Ælfflæd had refused it. She was curious now and there was no point in putting it off. If on the off chance Marguerite struck a conciliatory tone, Ælfflæd did not wish to turn her back on it without hearing her out.
The pair met in the queen’s chamber. Ælfflæd ordered it well-lit, and supplied with both wine and ale - though more of the latter than the former in hopes it might keep things short.
The rain was beating against the walls outside when Marguerite arrived at the chamber - it had begun to drizzle as the queen-mother’s party reached the manor and had picked up through supper.
Ælfflæd stood when she arrived. A slight head nod took the place of a bow. And when the servants and ladies departed, Marguerite took her seat, small smile on her thin lips.
Probably forced, Ælfflæd thought.
“You have lovely cousins,” Marguerite said. “How fortunate of your family - three duchesses, two in their own right, and two queens. Not to mention your uncle the Duke of Kent.”
“House Godwin remains ever present in England,” Ælfflæd said. “Even if they do not hold the crown and are unlikely to again soon.”
“And it is a wonder as to who will,” Marguerite said. “Perhaps… my grandson?”
Ælfflæd eyed her. “So… that is why you have come to see me?”
“No,” Marguerite said. “But it is no secret your cousin in Mercia acts on your behalf. I am curious to see how those plans go.”
“She tells me she works toward that end,” Ælfflæd said. “Beyond that, I am uncertain.”
“It would behoove you to gain more certainty my dear,” Marguerite said. “This is your child you speak of. Take it from someone who has lost a son to the pursuit of a kingdom - it is not something I would wish upon my worst enemy.”
A chill ran down Ælfflæd’s spine. “You… you would have me stop?”
“I would not have you do anything,” Marguerite said. “Except focus on matters closer to home. If you wish your son to have Aquitaine, let alone England.”
Another chill. “Aquitaine… what do you mean? He is already the crown prince and I hear no talk of rebellion against Geoffrey. It is not like England.”
“No, it is not,” Marguerite said. “It is of a different nature. A more sinister.. Insidious one. It makes it far harder to deal with.”
The words were terrifying to Ælfflæd.
A threat to my son… that is more sinister than rebellion?
“What do you mean?” she asked.
“The Duchess of Toulouse,” Marguerite said. “What do you know of her?”
“She is your son’s advisor,” Ælfflæd said. “A friend to the late Lady Agnes. And quite a powerful woman in her own right, given the forces she can call upon in Toulouse.”
“Is that
all?” Marguerite asked.
“Do you speak of those rumors?” Ælfflæd demanded.
“They are more than rumors, my dear,” Marguerite said. “As much as it pains me to say.”
“Pains you?” Ælfflæd scoffed. “I doubt that.”
“It pains me a great deal,” Marguerite said. “The woman is a snake - and will destroy anyone to increase her power and influence. That my son cannot see that… it is troublesome.”
“So you worry for him?” Ælfflæd asked.
“I worry for him and my grandson, yes,” Marguerite said.
“But not for me?” Ælfflæd replied.
Marguerite smiled. “Without you, my grandson’s safety is threatened. So yes, I worry for you.”
“A means to an end,” Ælfflæd said.
“Call it what you like, but I want you alive,” Marguerite said. “For together, we are best positioned to deal with Essa.”
“Deal with her?” Ælfflæd asked.
“Yes,” Marguerite said. “We need her gone. For all of our sakes.”
Ælfflæd’s eyes widened. “You want to kill her?”
“I would never dream of such a thing,” Marguerite said. “Unless it were absolutely necessary to protect my grandson. And it isn’t. The duchess’ influence can be broken, even as she lives.”
“But how will it be if she remains in Bordeaux?” Ælfflæd asked.
“We make certain she departs Bordeaux,” Marguerite replied.
“And how do we do that?” Ælfflæd asked.
“There is a crisis in Toulouse,” Marguerite said. “Camp fever rages in her lands. But she remains away because Bordeaux furthers her ambitions… cements her place close to Geoffrey.”
“But Geoffrey is not there,” Ælfflæd said. “He’s in Brittany… and she did not go with him.”
“No, but she entrenches herself in the palace,” Marguerite said. “Slowly she works to bring courtiers to her side. Identifies potential friends… and enemies. She sees what can work, and what will not. It may seem like nothing now but as my late husband would say, Rome was not built in a day.”
Ælfflæd eyed Marguerite. She was skeptical. The queen mother clearly did not like the duchess’ influence and that might have her jumping at shadows.
It could be me next, Ælfflæd thought.
But Ælfflæd had her own suspicions. She hoped the rumors were actually just a case of mistaken identity - that the “aunt” Geoffrey was laying with was Sarrazine. That he could lay with two of his uncle’s wives…
However, she couldn’t put it past him. And if Marguerite was right…
“I don’t know,” Ælfflæd admitted. “I do not wish to begrudge the woman on the basis of rumor and innuendo. I know first hand how lies can be spread.”
Ælfflæd stared Marguerite down, hoping she got the point. But the queen mother did not flinch.
“I will take no chances with my grandson’s life,” Marguerite said. “I would think you would feel the same way for your child.”
“I do,” Ælfflæd said. “How dare you think otherwise!”
“Then see it for what it is,” Marguerite said. “Who do you think put my daughter up to plotting to murder your son?”
Ælfflæd grew wide-eyed. “She… are you certain? Do you have proof?”
“The proof I need is that Essa’s grandchildren would come to the throne if Aines was successful,” Marguerite said. “She would stand to benefit. Agnes did not want to believe it, but she and Essa were always too close for comfort.”
“That… that is not proof,” Ælfflæd said. “I think you look to excuse your daughter of such a heinous act of betrayal.”
Marguerite glared at her. “I nearly strangled the girl with my own hands. So no, I do not look for any excuses for her. She is dead to me. But yes, I believe it is someone who led her down that road.”
Ælfflæd shook her head. It was nearly too much. All of this plotting. All of this backstabbing. All of this against her and her child.
“I wish I could remain in Angouleme forever,” she blurted out.
Her hand went to her mouth, realizing she’d said that out loud. However, Marguerite actually reached out and placed her hand on Ælfflæd’s.
“I know the feeling, my dear,” she said. “But we cannot hide from it, for if we do, our children suffer.”
Ælfflæd swallowed hard. “You want her out of the palace. How?”
Marguerite smiled. “Essa is not immune to pressure. Despite the power she projects, she does not truly think she holds an iron grip on Toulouse. And she is concerned about appearances, as my late husband was. We must make it so that she cannot help but return to Toulouse.”
“The camp fever?” Ælfflæd asked.
“Yes,” Marguerite said. “We… but most importantly, you, shall host women of Toulouse. The Countess of Foix would be a fine start, but other ladies too. The Countess of Melgueil. The women of their court. Offer your sympathies. Offer your aid.”
“But what will that do?” Ælfflæd asked.
“Shame her,” Marguerite said. “The queen showing more worry than their duchess is a poor look for Essa. It will force her into action… and to return to Toulouse, at least for a time.”
“I don’t think I have such power,” Ælfflæd said.
“You underestimate yourself,” Marguerite said. “You are a queen. You have produced a healthy, strong prince. You have sympathy - my son’s actions with the Countess of Thouars has endeared you to many.”
“Poor Ælfflæd,” the queen scoffed.
“Does it matter?” Marguerite asked.
“I don’t want to be pitied,” Ælfflæd said.
“Support is support,” Marguerite said. “When your son rules as king of this realm, he will care little if his mother was pitied.”
Ælfflæd hated that she kept going back to Guilhem. But it was effective.
“And what will you do?” Ælfflæd asked.
“Assist you,” Marguerite said. “We shall do it together. Between you and myself, we are the two women who are closest to the king. And whom most of the ladies in Bordeaux or loyal to. We work together, drive Essa out, then ensure she cannot get her hooks into the court easily any longer.”
“You’re forgetting one thing,” Ælfflæd said. “If Geoffrey is as infatuated with her as you say he is… he will never let her leave. And even if he does… he will welcome her back with open arms.”
Marguerite smiled. “You are young. You have much to learn about men, especially those who leap from one play thing to another. My son destroyed your marriage for Ana de Perigord… and now looks past her for Essa. All he needs is a new object of affection. And there is no reason that can’t be you.”
“There is plenty of reason,” Ælfflæd said. “Have you not seen the past four years?”
“I know that he was taken with you at Herve’s funeral,” Marguerite said. “And his foolishness ruined that. If you offer yourself to him… I think you will find him most receptive.”
“I… I can’t….” Ælfflæd said. “I can’t submit to a man who has humiliated me twice over, and will almost certainly do so again.”
“It is not submission,” Marguerite said. “It is doing what is necessary to protect your child. It is all I have ever done - with a father-by-law who was a brustish, rapist murderer, and a lecherous husband who laid with his sister over his own wife.”
Ælfflæd’s eyes widened. “That… that is not true.”
Marguerite narrowed her gaze. “Do not comment on what you do not know. You may have loved Agnes, but know that our world did not begin when you came to Aquitaine. She did many things that would sicken you. She would not have been where she was if she hadn’t.”
Ælfflæd wanted to argue but her instincts told her that last part was true. And while the rumors seemed almost too… horrible to believe, she did not trust in her knowledge enough to question it. Especially since she had heard it before… even back when she lived in England.
“I… I will think about what you have said,” Ælfflæd replied. “It is all difficult to stomach.”
Marguerite again touched her hand. “That, my dear, is the truest thing that can be said. And I understand. But time is of the essence. Do not dally long.”
……
Ælfflæd’s ale was warm in her stomach. That should have been enough to calm her.
But as she sat alone in her chambers, she found herself on edge. Conflict and uncertainty surrounded her. And her son could be the one who truly suffered.
If she made a wrong step in England, she might ruin his chance to inherit the crown. In the process, she would fail her mother, who believed she would save England.
Yet the stakes might be even higher here. If Marguerite was right, then Essa had designs on becoming queen herself. And surely she would not tolerate a child not of her blood to rule, especially if she only had only one boy to remove…
But trusting Marguerite… could she really ally herself with a woman who had nearly forced her into the clutches of Pope Martinus, just because she had thought of naming her son after his grandfather?
I wish Agnes were here, Ælfflæd thought.
But she wasn’t. Those days were past. She was gone… as was Ælfflæd's mother. And her brother.
She was alone, and felt it.
There was a knock on the door and a guard poked his head in, informing the queen that her cousin, Duchess Aevis, wished to speak to her.
After the conversation with Adelise earlier, and the belief Aevis desired Geoffrey having taken hold in her mind, Ælfflæd tried to send her away. But the guard returned, saying it was urgent and rather than deal with awkwardly ducking Aevis for the rest of her stay, Ælfflæd gave in and allowed her in.
But there was not much hospitality this time. Aevis was not offered a chair, nor a drink. And it duchess was taken aback.
“Is something wrong, Elf?” she asked.
“Many things,” Ælfflæd said. “Speak your piece and leave me alone.”
“I… have I done something to offend you?” Aevis asked.
“I suppose it is only fair to give you a chance to respond,” Ælfflæd said. “Your sister claimed you desire my husband. That despite what I have suffered, I am lucky to have him.”
Aevis turned a light shade of red and covered her mouth, probably out of embarrassment.
“It is true, I said that you were fortunate,” Aevis said. “But understand, I was venting frustration to Adi over my situation. I am married to a decrepit man over 60 years of age. He lives in Sicily and spends half his year there. I have been married three years and not a hint of a child. It makes my hold on my lands harder. So yes… I would greatly prefer to have been married to your husband. I have no doubt I would have children if I were and the protection of being a queen to a powerful king would bring.”
“If you wish it, cousin, then make a stop in Brittany,” Ælfflæd said. “I’m certain Geoffrey will oblige you, at least with your desire to have a child.”
“Please don’t misunderstand, cousin,” Aevis said. “I may consider you fortunate, but I would never lay with your husband. It would be a betrayal that I could never live down… to you or myself.”
Aevis paused for a moment and looked down. Then she added: “Besides, I am not the one who has laid with her mother’s husband.”
Ælfflæd’s brow rose. “What do you mean?”
“You haven’t heard?” Aevis asked. When Ælfflæd shook her head, Aevis continued. “The Duke of Somerset may well be the true father of Adi’s child.”
Ælfflæd’s mouth fell open. “I’d heard rumors of your stepfather trying to lay with her. But I thought she had rejected him.”
“So she says,” Aevis said. “But mother is not so sure. That is the real reason she is not here - Adi’s pregnancy coincides with when our stepfather last saw her. And it is not the first time that happened - there was talk with her second child as well.”
Ælfflæd’s hand ran over her face. More rumors. More betrayals. It was as if God was determined to show her the Angevins were far from the only ones who bathed in sin.
“You use this to deflect from yourself,” Ælfflæd said.
“I just speak to actual betrayal,” Aevis said. “I have had thoughts… but would never act on them. But Adi? Who can be sure?”
Did it even matter at this point? Everywhere Ælfflæd looked she saw snakes. Her husband. The duchesses and countesses. Ana. Marguerite. Now her own cousins. None of them could be trusted. None of them were in this for anyone but themselves. Only her son could be trusted, and only because he was not old enough to scheme.
“I think I would like to be alone, cousin,” Ælfflæd said.
“Wait, please, hear me out,” Aevis said. “It is important. Especially given the way Adi speaks.”
“I don’t wish to talk about my husband or your desire for him,” Ælfflæd said. “Nor her rumored infidelity. I don’t want to talk about any of this anymore.”
“Nor do I,” Aevis said. “But she brought it up to you because that’s what she wants us to discuss. To poison our relationship. To keep you from hearing what I have to say. Not about her. But about your son… your kingdom… and England.”
Ælfflæd eyed her. “What do you have to say?”
“Adi leads you along with false hope,” Aevis said. “When it comes to England… and your son’s hopes at gaining the crown.”
This conversation was not much better than the previous. But Ælfflæd’s doubts over Adelise’s promises remained too strong for her to ignore Aevis here. She motioned for her cousin to sit.
“What do you mean?” Ælfflæd asked. “She overstates his support?”
“Does she say he has any among the lords?” Aevis asked. “If so… then yes.”
Ælfflæd’s heart skipped a beat. “You mean to tell me my son has no backing from anyone? Not my uncle? Not your step father?”
“Certainly not from them,” Aevis said. “Uncle Osmund struggles with how to protect your nephew, Prince Æthelfirth. He has no time for Guilhem. And my step-father cares little for who is king.”
“What of Adelise herself?” Ælfflæd asked. “She backs him.”
“She does,” Aevis said. “But Adi by herself is not enough. And she knows that - she makes no formal call for your son. She whispers to others in the shadows. It does her no favors.”
“But if she and you joined together,” Ælfflæd said. “You would be strong enough.”
Aevis eyes fell away from Ælfflæd and the implication was clear.
“You… you won’t support him,” Ælfflæd said.
“I cannot,” Aevis said. “Not easily anyway. For one, I have little desire to betray the prince or your father.”
“I’m not asking you to,” Ælfflæd said. “If my nephew is the heir, or father’s new son…”
“You’ll stand down?” Aevis asked. “Truly? Because claimants do not suddenly disappear so easily. Especially claimants that stand to inherit a large realm, regardless of what happens.”
Ælfflæd pursed her lips. That was the part that was harder to admit. She had begun to talk herself into the idea that her son was a better option than her nephew, given his weakness with the Saxons.
“But what if they insist on someone else?” Ælfflæd asked. “What then? Surely, you would back my family over Ed!”
Aevis sighed. “I… probably would. But I am not alone. The same nobles who forced me into my miserable marriage must be handled. And they do not have warm feelings for your husband’s family.”
“Old feuds?” Ælfflæd demanded. “I thought we were past the wars of your great-grandfather.”
“I am,” Aevis said. “But there are those still living who were present when the Angevins and Normans fought. And many who fled Normandy after your husband’s grandfather defeated your grandfather in Rouen - giving it back to the Franks.”
“The Normans didn’t even help!” Ælfflæd exclaimed. “That’s why my grandfather lost! It is their fault they lost Normandy!”
“Be that as it may,” Aevis said, “they do not want to back your son for the crown. Many would sooner make peace with the Saxons, than bow before the Angevins.”
Ælfflæd shook her head. “But Adelise said…”
“Adelise fights with everyone,” Aevis said. “She fights with her court. She fights with her husband. She fights with the Saxons. The truth, Elf, is that they didn’t want her to come to see you not because she swells with child, but because they think her plans damaging to Mercia. To the Normans. And I agree, except that I’ll add, they’re damaging to you and your child as well.”
“How?” Ælfflæd demanded.
“Because every moment you waste chasing Adi’s desperate dream is one you aren’t spending on your standing here,” Aevis said. “I spoke to your mother-by-law.”
Ælfflæd’s eyes widened. “You did
what?”
“It was not intentionally about you,” Aevis said. “This is not the largest of manors and we happened upon one another. I’m sure she also spoke with Adi as well.”
Ælfflæd crossed her arms. “And what did you talk about? How she wished you were Geoffrey’s queen instead of me?”
Aevis blushed and Ælfflæd, to her horror, realized that probably did come up.
“We talked about your place, and this Duchess of Toulouse,” Aevis said. “And how she worries for your future.”
“She worries for my son,” Ælfflæd said. “If she could throw me aside but keep him, she would.”
“But she can’t,” Aevis said. “Not easily. And that is something you can use.”
That drew a shake of the head from the queen. “What do you know?”
“I know she comes to you,” Aevis said. “That she speaks to me, because she wants… nay, needs you on her side. Elf, you are in a much stronger position here than you realize. Do not throw it away by looking to England. Reinforce it by focusing here.”
“What would you have me do?” Ælfflæd demanded.
“As I said, look inward,” Aevis said. “Do not hide here. Return to Bordeaux. Be your husband’s queen even when he is not present. And when he is, do not just act as his wife. Be his wife. Spend your nights with him, so that you might have more children.”
“How do you know I don’t?” Ælfflæd asked.
Aevis’ brow rose. “Elf… do you think your rather public displays of rebellion, like coming here, do not reach our shores?”
Now it was Ælfflæd’s turn to blush. But Aevis just smiled.
“It is difficult, I’m sure,” Aevis said. “But we all have our struggles. I have worked to overcome mine by trying to build bridges with those I have reason to dislike… whether they be my husband or the Saxons. Adelise isolates herself by refusing to do the same. It will hurt her… and perhaps her many children.”
Aevis then rose and made her way to the door. She stopped there and looked back: “Don’t be like Adi. Look to me. Look to my mother. Look to your mother. Look to your brother. You will see what needs to be done.”
The duchess left the chamber and shut the door behind her, leaving Ælfflæd to her ale. Sadly, it was no more comforting than before.
….
If there was any true thawing of Marguerite’s relationship with Ælfflæd, the length of her stay did not show it.
The queen mother was prepared to depart for Bordeaux by the mid morning, and clearly had not planned to be in Angouleme for long.
Under normal circumstances, Ælfflæd would have been pleased to see her go. But circumstances were no longer normal.
And that was why Ælfflæd sucked up her pride, and made the trip to her mother-by-law’s guest chambers. It was difficult to stomach, but so was the thought of the possible grim alternative.
Marguerite was no doubt surprised to see her, as the lady stood with brow raised as Ælfflæd entered. “My dear, I would have expected to see you when I departed… if at all,” Marguerite said. “To what do I owe your visit?”
Her words made Ælfflæd even more annoyed to be there, but she resisted the urge to turn around and leave.
“My lady…” Ælfflæd began. She paused. “Mother. If you would, I request that you remain for a few more days.”
Marguerite’s brow rose again. “Remain? I admit, I did not expect such a request.”
“I have decided to return to Bordeaux as well,” Ælfflæd said. “And I think it would be nice to have company on the journey… and so that all might see us arrive together.”
A small grin formed on Marguerite’s lips. “Ah yes, very much in line with how things are done.”
“I thought so,” Ælfflæd replied. “And of course, I would very much like your help in organizing a large sup with the ladies of the realm. Especially those of Toulouse.”
Marguerite’s grin formed a wide smile. “Very well, my dear. Who am I to refuse the request of our queen, especially when it is a wise one? I shall remain, and we shall handle this business together.”
The pair each lowered their heads, almost in a half-bow, before Ælfflæd departed the room. She felt dirty… but better that than horrific guilt if her failure to act brought the death of her son.
Her hand had been forced. Neither ambition nor anger could deter her. She could not run from her duty any longer.
She would not give up on England. Not yet.
But Aevis wasn’t wrong. Aquitaine was her home now. And despite her hopes, her son was far from guaranteed to become its king. She need only look at her brother and nephew to see proof of that.
England is a dream, she thought.
Aquitaine is what must be. Without it… Guilhem has nothing.
Agnes had offered her an opportunity. Marguerite had offered a truce. It was time to take up both.
Ælfflæd made her way over to her son’s chambers, who was being attended to by Helie and her ladies.
“Mama, can I go outside?” he asked her as she picked him up.
The day was nice again, perhaps even warmer than yesterday. And so, she let him run free once more, following him out onto the grass.
With his wooden sword in hand, the prince again took to dispatching his imaginary enemies, taunting them in his Occitan tongue. Ælfflæd didn’t bother to correct him.
Instead, she nodded along as he taunted his dispatched “foes.”
We will defeat those that would deny you your birthright, Ælfflæd swore to herself.
Or die trying.
