Ducal Court of Brittany

[AugCaesar]

The bailiff's face turned red for a second from embarrasment and he answered quickly

Forgive my ignorance and impolitiness, Princess. Though I do not know where Moldavia is I hope you can forgive my ineptitude. You must be the woman of beauty and honor that Sir Gilles spoke of at the recent wedding. I am afraid to say he is indeed injured, please ride with us back to the castle gates.

Still looking incredibely flustered Argyll turned in the proper direction and ordering his last accompanying soldier to ride as vanguard of the group led them off quickly towards the castle. Once their he dismounted and addressed the guards.

These good nobles are from the lands of Moldavia, they are to have audience with his Grace immediately. As well send someone to check on Sir Gilles, as they have concern for him as well. Make haste.

Argyll approached the Princess on foot, and again apologized as he gestured for them to move with in the gates. He nodded at her guards and quickly mounted and rode off back into the city.

 

[von Streusser]

Maia answered "You are forgiven, good sir...you are only doing your job."

Once inside the castle, Lady Maia Litovoi pulled back her hood, exposing her long black hair and dark eyes. The two guards dismounted and followed her into the castle. Accompanying her to the Duke's court, the guards fixed their steely gaze directly before them.

Maia bowed before the Duke and spoke. "Your grace, I am Maia Litovoi, Princess of Moldavia, and sister to its Voivodes. I have stopped in your realm on my way back from the tournament of Cornwall to personally thank you for the loan you extended to the Constantinoplians at the outbreak of hostilities between the Romans and the Turks. Your actions may have saved all of Eastern Christendom. The entire Balkan peninsula owes you a debt of gratitude.

Additionally, I have heard that someone attacked Sir Gilles du Fougeres...I would like to know more of this, why would someone attack such a knight? I would very much like to visit him, as I made his acquaintance during the tournament in Cornwall and intended to pay him a visit during my journey through your lands."

 

[AugCaesar]

The Duke was sitting at court thinking pensively, his wife nearby setting, with her hands on top of her stomach now at full term. They were both startled a bit as a guard entered and announced an audience, they had not expected any foreign emissaries this day. Their startle turned to amazement as they heard the woman who took audience was the Princess Maia of the far off lands of Moldavia. He admired her beauty and grace as well as the cold look of power that so few women held. She was indeed all that Gilles had said she was. He smiled a bit when he responded.

Gladly met Princess, you honor myself and my court with your noble presence. I must say that all that Sir Gilles said of you is most true. No thanks are in order for the loan to Constantinople, it is an honor to assist the Christian Balkans in any way possible.

Yes...it is true that the Sir Gilles was attacked, the very day that he was to assess the fleets he is to command. Yes in seeing you I see he won more than the honor of his lord in Cornwall, as you come to visit him. But anyhow he somehow found himself in the slums of Nantes and it would seem he was beset upon from behind as he was to tie his horse. His assailant jabbed him once in the lower back, and once in the shoulder. When we found them Sir Gilles sword was notched in the mans spine having cut through his stomach. You must excuse my gruesome recount. As far as why or who we have some leads now but I must keep them quiet as we are not yet certain I should divulge more in private if you wish. I hear that my Bailiff Argyll had met you in the streets, I apologize for his intrusiveness but we have been on high alert and rounding up the filth of this city since this tragedy.

The Duke then rose and approached them with his wife at his side, his arm around hers.

Let us go see to Sir Gilles then?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A breeze blew across the water chilling all that it struck, carrying the salty smell of the sea with it. The winds perished against Gilles' chest as he looked off of the pier which extended unterminably infront and behind of him. The sky was sunless, ominous clouds covering its whole. There was no land to be seen in any direction, just the endless pier and the dark blue abyss. Gilles felt his lower back with his right hand, a sharp pain driving through it then stepped forward. He was greeted by a feeling of intense cold as his body was surrounded in water the sounds of his splash missing his ears as he sank ever deeper, unable to breath. He awoke after some time that seemed longer than forever in a dark forest. He was dry, yet his back still ached in the same spot and he could see only the dark trunks of trees and a black canopy overhead. He rose after a bit and grabbed for his sword. He drew it out quickly unsure of his location but as he held it out before him the blade cracked in half, the point falling just shy of his foot. The knight started at what remained of his blade for a bit and then dropped it before him. He began to walk towards what seemed to be a faint light off in the distance which grew closer as he drew towards it. As he drew nearer he heard the sounds of hooves and he heard someone shout in the language of Moldavia, which he could somehow comprehend.

"Drive them back, For God and Country, they shall not take her!"

Gilles ran towards the voices, his back ache soothed and in the Darkness he made out the shape of a group of cloaked riders and some ways behind them a woman, who tearing her cloak from her face revealed the radiant beauty underneath.

"Maia!"

He ran towards her as she shouted, though her face did not move. He looked and saw the riders behind him on the ground, perished their horses running off away. In their place were a group of Turkish men, large scimitars in hand. Gilles grabbed for his sword but it was not there. Again a sharp pain shot through his lower back and he fell to his knees, and the last thing he saw before he hit the ground was the Turkish men laughing holding Maia amongst them. Gilles quickly realized that he had not hit the ground though and was falling quickly towards something. As he fell the air around him became hotter and oppressive, and a loud laughter filled his ears. The heat continually grew as the voice became louder and deaper drowning out his thoughts. When he eventually hit the ground he felt no pain except for the nagging drive through his back. He looked up but could see nothing but fire and the incessant laughter. The fire closed around him surrounding him, his body blistering and sweating profusely but still only the pain in his back could be felt. Just as the flames were about to consume him he heard a soft woman's voice.

Gilles...Sir Gilles?

In an instant the inferno ended and Gilles' eyes creaked open, he could not move but kneeling at his side he saw Maia and he smiled.

 

[von Streusser]

The lady blushed ever so slightly when the Duke said "Yes in seeing you I see he won more than the honor of his lord in Cornwall, as you come to visit him."

However, Maia didn't even flinch when she heard the Duke's retelling of the attack. "Hmm, sounds like quite a blow. I assume that the assailant got what was coming to him then? You needn't apologize for your bailiff's actions...he was most professional and very thorough. Sir Gilles is to command the fleets? You mean, the fleets of Brittany?" Her face fell a little at this revelation. "Hmm, well I am certain that if he knows the sea as well as he jousts, then he will be a fine Admiral. But I would like to go see him now."

Maia watched Gilles dream for a while...apparently not a good one. He twitched frequently, tried to mumble something, and a couple times made a grab for his hip like he was drawing his sword, or at least trying to. She looked over his wounds briefly...they were deep, but not in vital areas at least. He would heal. She breathed a sigh of relief and mopped his brow. She sang softly in Romanian, partly to try and soothe his sleep, but more to calm herself. He didn't seem to calm down at all as he dreamed, but Maia at least felt a little more collected.

Suddenly, his eyes began to flutter open. "Gilles...Sir Gilles?" A dumb smile crossed his face. She laughed. "You were dreaming, sir, and it didn't look pleasant. You're all right now. What were you dreaming about?" She made a brief effort at concealing her happiness at seeing him conscious, then abandoned it and let her face break out into a broad smile.

 

[AugCaesar]

Gilles was glad to be back amongst the living, but the pains he felt were not a great welcoming party. Unlike in his dream they spread much further than his lower back. His delirious smile quickly turned to winces of pain as he attempted to roll over, an idea quickly stopped by the the nearby Nurse and Maia. The pain deadened a bit as he spoke to Maia, trying to force another smile.

I dreamed of hell I think...at least that is where I ended up, I tried to save you but I could do nothing..the pain..It was hot and the inferno surrounded me..but a voice called me out...your voice Maia.

He struggled as he spoke but he managed to lift his arm from his side and gently brush it against her cheek. The Duke and Duchess were exstatic but thought better than to butt in and silently left the room. Giving some directions to the nurse to bring him some food. The Duchess whispered to the Nurse.

Do not let him be foolish and overexert himself, do not let his love be the end of him.

The nurse nodded and headed off to the kitchen leaving Maia alone with Gilles.

I do not know why or how you come to be here Maia, but I can live easily with this pain to see you here. What does bring you to my homeland my princess?

His eyes were eager to her here though his face shown obviously the agony of his injuries. It was like the tournament again, his mind could think of only one thing and once again she was before him.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Across the Castle the Bailiff Argyll had entered the keep and spoke quietly with the Chancellor Armand.

What have your sources found out about Colbert chancellor?

My riders that have returned bring no news of consequence, yet several have yet to return. Have you had any luck?

No none of yet. With your leave I shall go to Fougeres?

The Duke would prefer you here. Is there not another that can go?

The scotsmen stroked his beard pensively, and Armand could almost see the light flicker in his brain

Guillaume Tiffauges...he would be the best.

Anyone but him...why him?

It MUST be him.

The Chancellor shook his head and looked at the ground.

Make it so Bailliff.

 

[von Streusser]

"Shhh, Gilles, sit still would you. You're going to get yourself even more badly hurt. You seem to have a penchant for injuring yourself, as I think I have yet to speak to you in a full state of health! Now tell me, what was it that I needed saving from? I am most curious." she said with a devilish grin.

"As for what brings me here, well, your land is not far from Cornwall. I thought that I should thank your Duke for sending a loan to the Romans to help them fight the Turks...and as long as I was in the area, I might as well come by and see if you were around. You know, just to say hi..." Her efforts to make the trip seem like it had some greater purpose than to see him are admirable, but futile. "You know, I think I've seen more than half of Brittany trying to hunt you down. In Fougeres I heard you were in Nantes, in Nantes I heard you were dead! You've been very elusive sir, but now it appears I have the upper hand..." she laughed again.

"Anyway" she says, standing and walking about the room, "I thought I would see a little more of Europe. I haven't seen much of it, to be honest, and thought I would travel back to my homeland the long way. Alexandru can wait a little longer to see me again, I think. He's always been very patient. Regardless, Brittany seemed like a good place to start my journies. And I'm glad I picked it too, if I weren't here to talk sense into you, would you try and go running around with those injuries as well?" she said, grinning again.

"So, I hear you are now Brittany's Admiral...that's quite a promotion. Your family must be very proud of you. I assume that this will keep you in place rather firmly here in Brittany, yes?"

 

[AugCaesar]

Despite the minor annoyance of not being able to move without excruciating pain Gilles was happy as could be as Maia strolled around chatting freely. She was quire witty when she wanted to be he thought. He whispered under his breath.

God I lover her.

'Whoops' he thought hoping nobody could hear him. After thinking a second he answered her slowly, he still had some trouble speaking.

I am sure his grace was glad to have you as a visitor at his court. I'd ask why you started in Fougeres if you sought the Duke too.

he began to laught but it was quickly cut off by shooting pains in his back.

Well you chose a great point to start your tours of the continent. I hope that you will be able to stay here a bit so once I can take to horse I may show you some spots along the coast that I truly cherish, they are indeed beautiful. As far as my promotion, yes it was a great honor, assisted I suppose by the fact that the Duke's brother the preveious admiral was married and moved to Bourbannais. As far as my family, having only my sister, I am sure she is glad for me. I suppose you had no leave to see her while in Fougeres.

He laughed again much more restrained

Yes that would have been difficult your not knowing she existed!

He continued still chuckling,

Well I have not even seen my fleet yet, but the Duke spoke of going to Rome at some point after his child was born, but now with the Papal seat in contention I do not know if we shall. Alas I would spend most of my time in Brittany as admiral, I suppose the only way I could leave would

Gilles smiled to himself and then coughed lightly

would be if his grace deigned to Marry me off, as he did his brother. But as I said Maia will you stay a few days at least so I can show you the places I spoke of? Your presense would surely hasten my recovery.

As he spoke to her the Nurse reentered with a bowl of soup and set it on the table next to Gilles, not wanting to interrupt them.

 

[von Streusser]

Maia shot him a scowl as he asked why she had started in Fougeres. As the pain of his injuries shot through him, her look became less severe. "See what happens? Perhaps now you won't be such a smart aleck." She smiled again. "I started in Fougeres because it was, I'll have you know, on the way. To Nantes. Where I knew the Duke was." Convinced she had finished her fib satisfactorily, she continued.

"I should be able to stay in Brittany a while yet. Someone has to make sure you don't go jumping off the roof of the castle next! No, I did not run into anyone in Fougeres who could be your sister...unless your sister is a bartender, about yay big around..." she made a gesture with her hands indicating a very portly person indeed, flashing another devilish grin.

"Yes, I had heard about the Papal elections and all those goings-on...very interesting indeed..." she seemed about to say more, but bit her tongue. "Well" she said, sitting again, "it looks as if you are anchored quite firmly here in Brittany for the time-being, Admiral. Perhaps your Duke will see fit to marry you off to some French beauty? And yes, I'll stay a while, I should hate to leave Brittany without receiving the grand tour. Now come, you should have some soup. Can you sit up? I'll help you...again..." she said with a smile.

 

[AugCaesar]

Gilles was happy to have his beloved Maia lifting the spoon to his mouth rather than the hefty nurse and the food rejuvenated his body a bit. As they sat and spoke for over an hour the nurse deemed it was time for Gilles to try and set up. It took some work but eventually Maia and the nurse got Gilles setting comfortably and it felt good for him to be upright again. In this condition Gilles could better admire Maia's beauty and his smile seldom left his face, except when he shifted. Eventually though the exertion of the conversation got to him in his weakened state and he lapsed into sleep despite his every effort to remain awake. His dreams this night would be better as he thought of travelling with Maia and learning even more about her.

It was very late when a dark figure cloaked in a gray robe made it into the offices of the Bailliff Argyll. The figure found the scotsmen asleep at his desk, a lit candle still burning nearby, the mans quill in hand. The shadowy figure walked unheard around the desk and stood behind the Bailliff and drew forth a dagger from his waist. He looked at the steel in his hands before throwing it forcefully at the door across teh way. The sound of hte splintering wood shocked Argyll awake and he jumped from his seat. He saw the knife in the door and looked around the room, but found no one. He composed himself and tugged on the bottom of his shirt with both hands straitening it out. He picked his quill up from the ground where it had fallen as he lept up and made his way across the desk. Just as he was reaching for the dagger a man darted across his way and in one smooth stroke removed the blade and sheathed it quickly in his side gracefully. Argyll looked surprised quickly turning to his side, while the cloaked man laughed heartily. Throwing back his hood he spoke with a laugh.

You summoned me Bailiff? What business does his grace have for me now?

God Damn you Guillaume, why do you pull this crap!

Guillaume laughed heartily and answered with a crooked smile

Yes anyway we need you to go to Fougeres and find out anything you can about at Artur Colbert, do you know him?

Aye, he is a man strong in the underground trade in Northern France, as well he had some shady connections to the deceased Count of Fougeres, Phillippe. I have never met him though.

This is all coming together then...for there was an attempt made on the life of Gilles du Foegers, the Counts only son and new High Admiral...our only clues point to this man. Go to Foegeres and find out what you can about his connections to this and write me as soon as you know anything. As always, exercise extreme caution.

Argyll stared grimly at Guillaume who as always had a cool almost contented look on his face. Guillaume nodded in approval of his orders and grabbed the purse that Argyll held out before him.

That is more than enough for your mission, of course we shall abide by the usual fee when you are successful.

Guillaume Tiffauges threw his cloak back over his head and without a word headed out of the office. Seconds later the neigh of a horse and pounding of hooves could be heard down the streets of Nantes.

 

[von Streusser]

Long after Gilles had fallen asleep Maia elected to go for a walk. It was very dark out, and she pulled her hood back up over her head as she walked to the stables to fetch her horse. As she rode through Nantes, she was careful to keep an eye out as there could be more brigands about, the likes of which had stabbed Gilles.

She left the city and headed towards the countryside. Once out of Nantes a ways, she found a large forest, dismounted, and tied her horse up. She then walked into the woods.

She seemed to nearly float through the forest as she walked. She could hear the howling of wolves in the distance, and the sounds of animals moving nearby. Only slivers of moonlight filtered through the canopy to illuminate her path. Suddenly, she noticed the glow of a pair of eyes standing in front of her and a little above. They were the kind of eyes she would recognize anywhere...those of a wolf.

The creature was maybe five feet in front of her and a couple of feet above on a rock. It was peering at her inquisitively, panting. She smiled as she kneeled and extended her arms a bit, showing her hands. She slowly pulled back her hood so it could see her face. It had been a long time since she'd done this.

The wolf continued to peer at her, then slowly climbed down the rock. It came closer to her slowly, sniffing all the while. Once it got up to her it sniffed her hands, then up her arm, then her face. It pulled back briefly, then licked her face once, and broke into a broad canine grin. She laughed and slowly began to pet the animal. "Bonjour, Monsieur Loup...what might your name be?" she asked him.

 

[von Streusser]

Maia decided she wanted to see a little more of Nantes while Gilles was sleeping. He snored like a pig. After meeting her new friend the wolf, she returned to her horse and rode back into town. She meandered through the streets, taking everything in. She had been to Gaul once before, but that was long ago. Still, everything about it rather impressed her...how close everything was together, the architecture, the magnificent cathedrals, the look of the countryside, the people...well, most of the people left a lot to be desired, but the food was good.

She continued to ride through Nantes.

 

[AugCaesar]

A Recovery and an Arrival

The sky was still dark in the west barely peeking over the eastern horizon and casting a feeble light on the rear of the Castle at Nantes. Inside a cool draft danced across the floor chilling the Duke's feet as he sat up in his bed. Down in the infirmary Gilles had just awoken and was alone in the dark infirmary. He felt invariably better and smiled remembering that Maia was somewhere around. Forgetting himself he stepped off of the bed and stood on the floor. Within seconds his knee buckled from the pain and he could hardly stop himself from falling by grabbing onto his bed. The pain in his back was obvious again but he managed to straiten himself up and set down again. After composing himself he called for the nurse. She came forth bearing a platter. The Duke had obviously seen to it that he was fed well as she bore a small cut of dried meat fresh eggs and milk. He ripped through the food ravenously before the Nurse had even left the room and held out the empty glass beckonging for more to drink. With a look of surprise she grabbed it and scurried off. Gilles, contented, slid back in the bed and rested his back carefully against the wall, slowly easing his hands behind his head. He could managed with some pain to get his left arm up. All in all he felt one thousand times better than the day before. After quickly gulping down the second glass from the nurse he mentioned to her that he should send lady Maia to him if she sees her and awaken him upon her return. With that he fell quickly asleep again.

The sun was halfway home when a cloaked man entered the outskirts of Fougeres. He rode largely unnoticed through the sleepy hamlets and huts eventually arriving at what once would have passed for a fine tavern. Now the two story building was practically a ruin, its sign dangling by one rusty chain, planks nailed across most of its windows. What color the building was supposed to be was imperceptible through the coats of mold and muck that gave it an almost protective coat. The man dismounted swiftly and tied his horse to the pole outside. He approached the door, which was surprisingly new and looked to be quite strong. He rapped on its center three times and after a few seconds once more. A grating yell flew from with in...

"Arr..ah...aye...'cha want?"

"'tis Guilluame.."

There was no answer but the sound of footsteps approached the door and it after some rattling on the other side was flung open wildly. The open door revealed a man who appeared to be elderly though his physique and eyes belied him as much younger. He slouched heavily to his left, where an empty sleeve hung off of his shirt. He greeted Guillaume with a sneer and walked back into the room, hobbling.

"getcha' in ere."

 

[von Streusser]

Maia returned to the castle in Nantes, stabled her horse, gave an appreciative nod to the guardsmen, and re-entered. Once inside, she headed for Gilles' room. Pulling the nurse aside, she inquired as to his progress. The nurse informed her that he had stopped snoring like a pig and started eating like one, to which both women had a good laugh. She also informed Maia that Gilles had requested she come wake him should the nurse run across her. Maia nodded her thanks and returned to the infirmary.

Brushing wolf hair off her cloak and singing softly in Romanian as she entered, she slowly increased the volume of her song to wake Gilles, smiling at him all the time. He rather reminded her of her brother Ilias, brave but...stubborn when it came to his health. She smiled more broadly.

 

[AugCaesar]

Baby Steps...

The knight lay there half awake as the smooth sounds of the music that had before permeated his sleep drenched his ears like sweet honey. His mind revelled for a bit before striking his brain to awaken and as Gilles' eyes flung open he was greeted by a joyous sight. The lady Maia was approaching him, her cape flowing gracefully behind her, a beautiful smile gracing her fair face. He quickly snapped out of his awe of her and addressed her, Maia smiling even more as she saw him awake.

Ahh...I feel much better for that breakfast, though I think the majority of my good feeling is owed to you beautiful Princess of Moldavia. How did the night and morning treat you?

Feeling invigorated Gilles stepped off the bed and stood up besides the bed his legs wobbling lightly as he attempted to ignore the pain in his back.

Would you do me a great honor and escort me from this infirmary to a room more suitable for conversation?

Maia grabbed Gilles arm and assisted him as he lead her through the Castle, pointing out anything of notice as they went. Eventually they reached a large room of ornate decoration. As they entered they could see the Duke at a large rectangular table seated across from them, a plate of food before him. Behind him on the wall was a large tapestry decorated with the Ermine colors of the Duchy, the very same Gilles had fought under in Cornwall. The Duchess Gienvivieve saw them first and rose from her seat, carefully avoidng the table with her large, pregnant stomach.

" Oh Gilles it gladdens us to see you afoot...the both of you come, we'll send for a lunch for you."

Gilles, led by Maia, slowly made it to the table and sat down. The Duke and Duchess smiled looking at them. John began to speak before his wife cut him off. Rubbing her belly she looked at Maia and spoke excitedly.

" Tell us Princess of your lands in Moldavia, their people, and your brothers the Voivodes. How are affairs in your fair lands.?"

 

[von Streusser]

"The night treated me well." she said, trying in vain to brush more of the hair off her cloak. The stuff just wouldn't come off. "I rode through Nantes and took in a little of the countryside. It's a charming little country you have here."

Maia laughed as he got up. "We're going to try walking again, are we? You never give up, do you? You're like Ilias."

Once Gilles was parked securely at the table and the lunch was brought forth, Maia endeavored to answer the Duchess' question. Her face darkened as she did so. "Well, your Grace, our lands and yours are very different, I must say. Once again, our homes are threatened by the specter of war, the shadows of the Turks loom over us once more. Though they were rebuffed at Constantinople, they will come again...they always do. The life we lead is one of constant apprehension, waiting for the scimitar to drop. It takes simple people, farmers and peasants, and hardens them. My brothers and I were nearly born with swords in hand, all five of us. Every one of us excels with a weapon or two...and though I am certain that your guards are great and skilled men, I could probably outduel many of them." Her serious tone shifts to a more jovial one for a moment as she says "I could certainly outduel Sir Gilles..." with a grin. Then, becoming serious again, she says "It is a very different life, your Grace.

My country is mostly populated by poor common workers. We export wool, farm sheep and grain, and do some mining in the mountains. We also smith weapons, for obvious reasons...but we've fought Mongols, Hungarians, and Turks for years, just to maintain our independence and way of life. That will not change, not so long as I draw breath..." Everyone else in the room seemed to disappear from her view, and her voice betrayed a quiet desperation as she spoke. "Last I heard, the Mongols and the Turks were threatening to continue and expand the war...Moldavia is about to join and fight, and it appears that almost all of Western Christendom, with the exception of your Duchy, your Grace, couldn't care less. If we survive, the Balkans will become stronger than ever, more unified, a true force to be reckoned with! But, that is a very big 'if'.

But these are not things to speak of now..." she said, her tone brightening, clearly forced. "My brothers the Voivodes are an interesting pair, to say the least. When my father, Alexandru cel Bun, one of Moldavia's greatest Voivodes, got married, he declared that he would have many children and that his first born son would take his throne upon his death. Well, he was very surprised when he had twin boys for his firstborn. He labored over the decision of who would inherit for years, but as Ilie and Stefan grew up, it became clear they needed each other. Stefan needed Ilias' exuberance and passion, and Ilias needed Stefan's intelligence and protection. So my father decided that both would rule, and be stronger for it. The boys have mostly gotten over it by now, and work together pretty well, to be honest. I think the determination to honor our father's wishes is what drives them to co-operate most of all. But many rulers comment when they hear that my country has a shared throne...even Vlad, the Voivode of Wallachia didn't believe it could be done." Turning to Sir Gilles, she said "I believe you two met at the tournament, if I am not mistaken..." with a mischevious grin.

 

[AugCaesar]

Before the Duchess could speak Gilles answered quickly, wanting to spur to his feet, though he coud not.

Yes...I have met the previous Voivode Vlad of Wallachia, and I saw him fail at the hands of the King of Hungary. It saddened me as I knew your lands had much concern for his victory as the independence of your claims relied upon it. I found him an arrogant and boistful man...but I did pledge my sword to his dedication to the destruction of the infidels and at one point recognized his claim to whom he saw as a rightful bride...but apparently his defeat has weakened not only his claims to his country as well as his bride, but also his power to command men against evil. Still though I assure you Maia that I shall stand against Infidels and those Vlad claimed as evil...as my lord has proven our realms commitment..I am sure with no funds to spare if the situation was dire his grace would call on our fleet to sail in opposition to the destruction of the infidels.

Gilles stared at his lord as he said his words and the Duke returned his glances with a cool stare.

"I should never stand for an infidel in the realms of Christianity, regardless of the rest of Europe you know our funds and hearts dedicate themselves to the defense of the Balkans Maia, as such we shall never let up its cause. God willing."

"Cetainly Princess the Duchy of Brittany shall uphold the virtues of Christ. I do not know if you are aware but strife once again strikes the lands of Gallia, but we shall stand before the lands of the East to repel the heathen, whomever doth lead them. My Admiral Gilles doth speak pasionately about defending your rights, but as I am sure yourself and your brothers know you must provide reason for my forces to sail to your cause."

The Duke paused briefly and the Duchess cut in abruptly

Though Princess assuredly if situations are ever dire we shall rally to your one true cause...all you have to do is ask.

Before Maia could answer the political questioning of the nobility at his table Gilles paused them with his blatant stares towards Maia

I feel that on the morrow I shall at least be able to plop myself upon horse. Willl you then ride with me and see the beauty of the coasts I told you of?

 

[von Streusser]

"Noble Duke, and gentle Duchess, I apologize for getting carried away. We are all passionate about something...for me, my first passion is my homeland. I would never question your desire to defend the lands of Christianity to the best of your abilities, in fact I have seen you prove such with action when others offered only words.

My brothers know far more of affairs of state and protocol than I, I must admit. I am certain though, that they would not ask for help from the West unless they really and truly needed it and could demonstrate such. I am curious however about recent events here in Gallia...what turmoil now threatens your lands? I have spoken long enough of my troubles, let me hear yours."

She then turned back to Gilles. "Yes, all our hearts went with him that day. I know many Moldavians who would gladly have fought in his place...including myself. He does have those certain abrasive qualities, yes, but he is a good man. But I am curious, who is this bride of his you speak of? I have heard of no woman who was promised to him." She grinned.

"Anyway Sir Gilles, if you find yourself well enough to ride I doubt there is anything I could do to prevent you from riding...so I might as well go with you and make sure you don't kill yourself!" She gave another fiendish grin.

 

[AugCaesar]

The Duke and Duchess listened earnestly as Maia spoke, she had a graceful way of speaking.

"Noble Duke, and gentle Duchess, I apologize for getting carried away. We are all passionate about something...for me, my first passion is my homeland. I would never question your desire to defend the lands of Christianity to the best of your abilities, in fact I have seen you prove such with action when others offered only words.

My brothers know far more of affairs of state and protocol than I, I must admit. I am certain though, that they would not ask for help from the West unless they really and truly needed it and could demonstrate such. I am curious however about recent events here in Gallia...what turmoil now threatens your lands? I have spoken long enough of my troubles, let me hear yours."

As Maia finished speaking and looked towards the two rulers for an answer the Duchess smiled and rubbed her stomach, for a second a look of pain shot across her face, which Maia noticed and brought a brief look of concern to her face. The Duke was still intently looking at Maia and oblivious answered her.

Ah well affairs in our lands are better than in the past few years.

The Duke paused for a moment and Gilles filled in the silence affirmingly

That is for certain.

But Princess, as in all places I presume things are not perfect the Duc du Orleans an English vassal and pretender to the throne of the French King has returned and with him brought war to our lands. King Louis has brought his armies and those of Burgundy against this pretender, but I think choses not to ask us for he does not desire to gives us any more land but keep it all for himself. Or perhaps I say too much.

The Duke fiddled akwardly for a second and then with an odd smile clapped his hands together and spoke loudly to Maia and Gilles

Well we should let the two of you alone and get prepared for your little sojourn tomorrow, that is if Gilles is up for it?

Most definitely.

Gilles reached his hand over to clasp Maia's which was resting on the chairs armrest as the Duke assisted his wife from her chair. The Duchess Gienivieve was now visibly straining but as always put on a good face and show and made her way out of the room in stride with her husband. Resting his hand gently on Maia's own Gilles turned towards her, his face blushing. She was wearing that devilish grin he had seen on her before, and after noting in his mind how attractive it made her he spoke again, squeezing her hand lightly.

As I suppose you know it was probably my paranoid fear and blind love for you Maia that led me to belove the Voivode Vlad and your brothers would see the two of you betrothed and I knew that you did have feelings for him.

He stumbled a bit with his words, his face showing strain not from physical pain, but a mix of embarassment and heartfelt love.

Do forgive me for my presumptiousness. So let me start our little adventure this day with a tour of the gardens and courtyards her at Nantes they are quite plentiful and beautiful and it will build me the energy for tomorrow.

jlA look of almost terror drew over Gilles face as he came to a realization.

My mount...'Alain', I pray that the Brigand did not harm him and that he was brought to castle. If you do not mind Maia, may we adjourn to the stables for a short while before I give you a tour of the castle...I would like to be certain my horse that served me so well in the tourney and prior is doing well.

 

[AugCaesar]

An Unwraveling

It was late evening now and only the light of flickering candles illuminated the Castles of Nantes. Accompanying the dancing shadows along the hallways of the castle were the Knight of Fougeres and Princess of Moldavia. They walked arm in arm through the castle and chatted about various things. Both happy to be together. Gilles was walking for the most part on his own power, requiring help only for the many stairs in the castle. The exercise and presence of his beloved woman energized his mind and body. At least for now it seemed like he would be with her forever. They meandered on through the castle like that for some time probably touring it more than twice. In a private chamber near the infirmary though another couple was bracing for the birth of their first child.

"Nurse come for me at the very first when the child is born...it is not proper for me to be here as she births."

The young woman the Duke spoke to was clothed in robes, almost like that of a nun. She simply nodded in ackknowledgment and busied herself with preparing the room and wiping the sweat from the Duchess' brow with damp towels. The Duchess lay in a thin white gown drenched in swite, her legs spread and up in the air. Her screams of pain echoed through the room and out into the halls, alarmng more than a few guards. One of the other women in the room was gathering some clean clothes and placing them beneath the Duchess' legs. She looked serenely at the Duchess whom had a brief repose in her agony and spoke soothingly to her.

"Your grace, think of something far from here and know that for all this you shall have a child. God has blessed you and your family."

Gienievieve attempted to force out a smile but was hit by another strong contraction and a wrenching pain in her stomach which had seized her for the past few days. As the contraction passed she released the tension in her neck and let her head fall hard on the pillow beneath it.

The Duke had found his way into the castles great hall and was pacing the barren floors of the room. The huge vaulted ceiling above him was hidden from view, too far from the small illumination of the few candles still lit in the huge room. The Duke paced for hours wondering why no one had come for him. What was taking so long? Eventually he stood leaning in a dark corner with only a pale flicker of candle illuminating his face and awaited some word from the nurse. The Duke was still dressed in battle clothes from a patrol he had made through the city earlier. Since he returned and heard the news of his wifes labor his mind had labored with the fear and anxiety of the event. His first child and possibly heir. His mind was a busy mix of emotions, scared, happy, anxious, sad. His face shown the weight of his thoughts.

More hours went by and the sky outside was turning that pale hue of grey and blue that accompanied the lazily rising sun. The Duke now moved into the foyer of the castle entrance and peered out of a small window. There was little activity in the courtyard save a few guards milling around and a young boy running from the well a bucket of water clasped before him in both hands. John turned around and was greeted by the Nurse, who was still dressed the same but this time her white apron was soaked in blood. Her white veil encased an earnest and grieved face.

"Your Grace...your wife has born you an heir, a strong healthy son."

The Duke smiled akwardly bracing himself for what was to come after the Nurses hesitation.

"M'lord the noble Duchess has passed...she faded away shortly after the birth...she died holding your son. I am sorry your grace...we tried."

A look of horror and bewilderment shot quickly across the Duke's face and he staggered backwards into the hard wall behind him. He buried his head in his hands and fell to his knees. After a few seconds he composed himself and taking a cloth from his breath pocket wiped away the tears welling in his eyes. The nurse led him into the infirmary and finally to the private chambers. He saw there his wife lying still covered by a thick white blanket. He approached her and kneeled at her side. He gently rubbed his bare hand across her cheek and gently kissed her forehead. He stumbled as he stood back up, tears siliently flowing down both cheeks. He looked at the nurse and nodded. The woman drew the cloak over the Duchess' lifeless face and the priest who was sitting silently in the corner along with two assistants moved the body from the room. As the body was carried out of the room the nurse again approached the Duke, this time holding a bundle of cloth, decorated in an ermine pattern. She handed it to him and he gently received it in both hands. He looked down at the tiny figure he held and smiled widely.

"My first born. I pray the lord sees fit to leave you always as a reminder of your mother who knew nothing but love. I shall do my best for you always John."

 

[von Streusser]

"Well, had Vlad not lost the biggest fight of our countries' mutual history and decided to disappear somewhere into Europe, it probably would have come to pass that he and I would have married. But fate apparently decreed otherwise. Considering the incident with Ilias' horse at the tournament, and the falling out I heard Stefan had with the Wallachians upon his return, I doubt either of them would have pushed too terribly hard for me to wed Vlad. Apparently Stefan was quite upset the last time he left Bucuresti. So now two of my brothers have qualms with two of Vlad's brothers. I don't think that wedding would have gone very well!" She laughed.

"I guess it is in our peoples' nature to be argumentative and difficult to get along with. Truth be told, I don't know where that comes from. But apparently it's there. I bet if Petru and Bogdan came back to Moldavia and met Vlad's family they'd wind up hating someone within it shortly, and that would take care of everyone." She sighs. "Those boys...anyway, I'd be lying if I said I didn't have some manner of feelings for him, but it wouldn't have been my ideal marriage. He's brave, and a strong man and all...but the sweet, kind side of him comes out far too rarely." She looked up at Gilles with a smile. "That's a very important combination that so few men ever master, I've found...but there are some." She winked.

Maia tipped her head to Gilles. "A tour of the grounds and gardens would be most lovely, I shall look forward to it. At some point, we shall have to ride out of the city and I can introduce you to my new friend, Monsieur Loup! We met last night while you were sleeping. And of course we can go check on Alain, I will help you."