• We have updated our Community Code of Conduct. Please read through the new rules for the forum that are an integral part of Paradox Interactive’s User Agreement.

Avernite

Field Marshal
75 Badges
Apr 15, 2003
6.843
7.201
  • Imperator: Rome - Magna Graecia
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Victoria 3 Sign Up
  • Stellaris: Necroids
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Crusader Kings II: Reapers Due
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man
  • Stellaris: Digital Anniversary Edition
  • Crusader Kings III: Royal Edition
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Stellaris - Path to Destruction bundle
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mandate of Heaven
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Stellaris: Federations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cradle of Civilization
  • Crusader Kings II: Jade Dragon
  • Stellaris: Humanoids Species Pack
  • Stellaris: Apocalypse
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rule Britannia
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall - Revelations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Stellaris: Megacorp
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Imperator: Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Imperator: Rome Deluxe Edition
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall Season pass
  • Stellaris: Lithoids
  • Majesty 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
I've read the first 30 pages already. Great AAR!

Good to see some new fans, though you certainly have a long read ahead still ;)
 

Avernite

Field Marshal
75 Badges
Apr 15, 2003
6.843
7.201
  • Imperator: Rome - Magna Graecia
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Victoria 3 Sign Up
  • Stellaris: Necroids
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Crusader Kings II: Reapers Due
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man
  • Stellaris: Digital Anniversary Edition
  • Crusader Kings III: Royal Edition
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Stellaris - Path to Destruction bundle
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mandate of Heaven
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Stellaris: Federations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cradle of Civilization
  • Crusader Kings II: Jade Dragon
  • Stellaris: Humanoids Species Pack
  • Stellaris: Apocalypse
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rule Britannia
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall - Revelations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Stellaris: Megacorp
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Imperator: Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Imperator: Rome Deluxe Edition
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall Season pass
  • Stellaris: Lithoids
  • Majesty 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
If Trempy was really that smart wouldn't he be sitting on the throne (or just beside it) right now? :confused:

;)

He started from spymaster, Hugh started from acknowledged heir. He just had a worse start is all. ;)
 

Irsh Faq

Solomonid Emperor
32 Badges
Dec 14, 2008
630
0
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Divine Wind
  • Arsenal of Democracy
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Hearts of Iron IV: Cadet
  • Hearts of Iron IV: No Step Back
  • Hearts of Iron IV: Together for Victory
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Hearts of Iron IV: Death or Dishonor
  • Hearts of Iron IV: Expansion Pass
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Hearts of Iron IV: Expansion Pass
  • Hearts of Iron IV: La Resistance
  • Battle for Bosporus
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Hearts of Iron IV: By Blood Alone
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • 500k Club
  • Victoria 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV
Put another way, he started from "betrothed to the heir to the crown" and Hugh started from "dispossessed bastard.":p
 

frogbeastegg

Lurking Frog
48 Badges
Apr 6, 2004
849
0
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Magicka
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Penumbra - Black Plague
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Victoria: Revolutions
  • Europa Universalis: Rome
  • Semper Fi
  • Sengoku
  • Sword of the Stars
  • Sword of the Stars II
  • Victoria 2
  • The Kings Crusade
  • Rome: Vae Victis
  • Warlock: Master of the Arcane
  • 200k Club
  • 500k Club
  • Crusader Kings II: Holy Knight (pre-order)
  • Europa Universalis III: Collection
  • Pride of Nations
  • Rise of Prussia
  • Mount & Blade: Warband
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Hearts of Iron II: Armageddon
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Deus Vult
  • Arsenal of Democracy
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Divine Wind
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • For The Glory
  • For the Motherland
  • Hearts of Iron III
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
“Some messengers have arrived,” said Hawise. “Fulk requests you join him. He’s in the armoury.”

“Some.” Eleanor reluctantly rolled over so she could see her maid. “Define ‘some’.”

“Three.”

“Three.” Eleanor pushed herself up; immediately the dull ache in her lower belly intensified. “It is a conspiracy.”

Hawise placed Eleanor’s shoes at the side of the bed ready for her to step straight into. “One is from your brother, one from Repton, and the other is here in response to the message you sent to Wosthorne abbey.”

Eleanor glowered. “Why could they not have arrived yesterday, when I felt fine? Or tomorrow when I might feel better?”

“Consider the bright side,” the maid advised as she sorted through Eleanor’s meagre collection of girdles for one which would go with the dress Eleanor was wearing.

“Bright side.” Eleanor slipped her feet into her shoes and stood. “I know I am not with child. Down side – I have rarely been one to suffer from aches and illness and it would have been a damned sight better if I had ended up feeling rotten in one of the months of my life where I do not have a lot to do.”

Hawise passed over a plain braided silk girdle. “That in and of itself is a blessing. I once knew a girl who spent the entire time she was bleeding queasy and retching with the most dreadful headaches.”

Eleanor wrapped the length of silk loosely around her waist twice and tied it. “That would cheer me up if only I did not currently feel as though I have been kicked by a mule.”

“Go take your wrath out on the messengers. I’ll make something to ease your stomach for when you return.”

“If it is as effective as the last lot you can save your bother.” Eleanor ran a hand over her hair making sure he braid was still neat. “How do I look?”

The maid considered for a bit. “Pale, faintly sick, crotchety.”

“Charming,” Eleanor snarled, and exited the room wishing heartily she could return to lying down in a huddled ball. It was the only thing which eased the ache.

The three messengers awaited in the armoury, where Fulk was inspecting the castle’s stocks and having them recorded by a clerk. Two monks and one man in Hugh’s livery.

Eleanor surveyed them swiftly. “Which of you is here from Repton?”

The shorter of the two monks bowed. “I am, your Highness.”

“Your message?”

The monk replied, “It is verbal. Shall I state it now?”

“Unless it contains something others should not know.”

“It does not, your Highness.” The monk’s eyes fell half closed as he called the words to mind. “These are the words spoken by my abbot. I thought it of import to inform you that Trempwick has made requests to send you a message. I have denied them, as instructed. This denial he countered with the plea I inform you of his request. I have given him no reason to believe I would do this, though having a respect for his intellect I know he will be aware that my failing to do so would be a failure in the duty you have left me. Trempwick claims to be bored, and this I do not doubt. He says this is of such import that you must be made aware; I fail to see the relevance. I have made suggestions for gainful employment to him, and thus far he has taken them.” Recital complete, the monk reopened his eyes. “That was all, your Highness.”

Fulk looked up from counting a sheaf of arrows. “And what would a bored spymaster do?” It was a rhetorical question; Fulk’s appreciation for Trempwick’s abilities was a damned sight keener than the abbot of Repton’s.

Eleanor had been expecting this since she condemned Trempwick to imprisonment and isolation. It was, simply, half of the point. Once bored he would be grateful for any chance to work, however slight or simple. At that point she had his attention, fully and wholly, and he knew what he could be plunged back into if he displeased her. “Tell your abbot that he has done well to bring this to my attention, and to deny Trempwick’s request. He is to watch still more closely, and alert me of anything out of the expected run, no matter how slight it might appear to him. It is my wish that Trempwick be put to work now. This will not be conveyed to him directly; he is to think it is the abbot’s own idea.” Her former master would not be fooled for a second. The implications of her working this way was what mattered, not a successful deception. “I wish him to write a history of my father, recording his deeds and his acts.” Again, Trempwick would see that this request fell into two halves. The first a formal history of the reign, the second an account of a man by his close friend.”

The monk bowed. “It shall be done.”

Eleanor dismissed him to food and rest, and turned to Hugh’s messenger. “Well?”

The man bowed. “Your Highness, this was sent in addition to the message for your husband.” He pulled a small letter out of his belt pouch.

Eleanor took it and inspected the seal; unbroken. As it was Hugh’s private seal the message couldn’t be that important; Eleanor dismissed the messenger.

Fulk set aside the coil of bow string he was checking for damage and dismissed his clerk. “And you are here to solve the mystery of Ranulf,” he said to the third and final messenger.

“I hope so, my lord.” The monk tucked his hands in his dangling sleeves. “I will look at the man to be sure he is whom we believe, if such is your wish.”

Fulk nodded at once. “Yes. It would be best if he did not see you, I think. The prisoners will be brought out for exercise this afternoon; you can observe him then.”

“As my lord wishes,” the monk agreed with a gentle bow. “Would you hear of the Ranulf we did know, or do you wish to be sure it is the same man first?”

“Please tell me.”

“The Ranulf we knew was with us from an early age. A bright child, his parents knew that he could do better than spend his life working the land as they had. They managed to raise the money to fund his acceptance, and the boy took to the life well. When he was some months short of taking his vows, a thief slipped into our church and tried to steal the candlesticks from the altar. Ranulf was one of a small; group who spotted him, and he blocked the thief’s path.” The monk sighed and bowed his head. “It was a good thought, and with tragic consequences. The thief fought, and Ranulf killed him. By accident, of course! During the scuffle he fell backwards and broke his head on the cornerstone of a pillar. God’s judgement on a sinner.” The monk crossed himself. “Some of our number did not share this view; they said Ranulf had blood on his hands, and that he had desecrated holy ground more than any thief could. It tore our peace apart. It tore Ranulf apart, for he was fundamentally a good man.” The monk paused. “Two weeks later, he left. It was a thing of some bitterness. He said he would not stay in a place where people cast doubt on him for acting righteously. He had not taken vows so he was free to go; we have no claim on him. Nor was he charged with murder.”

Fulk said, “I suppose I can see him not wanting to tell this story. It must be painful.”

“He was deeply hurt by the fact some of his brothers rejected him.”

Eleanor did not see any need to be present for more of this discussion, not when she could return to curling up to ease her stomach ache. “If you need me for anything else, send for me. Otherwise …” Otherwise don’t bother, and if Fulk needed her for something it had better be diverting the apocalypse and nothing else!

The message from Hugh she read as she walked back through the keep. It was brief, and instructed her to see to the relocation of her father’s body. Now the country was settling back into peace there was nothing to prevent the arse in the crown from lying in Westminster along with his father and grandfather. Eleanor rolled the bit of parchment up into a tube which she tapped on her thigh as she walked. Hugh was known as a dutiful son; a dutiful son would see to his father’s burial. Hugh had done what was required of him during the original funeral, which would make his passing the job on to her all the more notable. Understandable as his refusal to do more for a man who had disowned him was, it could not be allowed.





Fulk waited as the prisoners were let out into the bailey, waiting to see if the monk would recognise Ranulf without any clues.

“There!” The monk bit back his rapid identification. “At least … I think. He’s shaved his head.” In the bailey Ranulf turned to say something to a comrade and inadvertently gave a better view of his face. “Yes. That is him.” The monk smiled faintly. “He used to have dark hair, all loose curls and unruliness. He looks so different without it.”

“Well, then. Mystery solved.” Fulk decided he would hire Ranulf along with the others he had marked as good soldiers, provided Hugh permitted it.










Boring boringness which is not interested in writing nicely. It’s had as long as I’m willing to give it; I’m moving on because that’s where the better scenes are.


:watches the Hugh/Trempy back and forth: Am I the only one thinking that once the final part is posted there should be a battle royale between various Hugh and Trempy fans? Last side standing wins. :looks around: Yep, it’s just me.

Jojo, I haven’t published anything. Red Hand is an on-going work; it’s huge and complex, and makes Eleanor seem like your average 300 page simple novel. It also requires skills I haven’t fully developed right now; skills like heavy editing. It’s going to be years before I’m remotely happy with it.

Ancel is the most likely to get into print, should any froggy scribblings make that longshot. It’s tightly focused, and I’ve trimmed it back further so it’s tighter still and that’s improved the story still further. It’s marketable. Publishing aside, it can be used to develop those editing, pacing etc skills I’m lacking.

A reader on the other forum has made a similar comment about not knowing what to read after this is done. I’m starting to think I should do a froggy approved reading list featuring books I’ve read and think might appeal to Eleanor readers, and possibly the mountain of history books I’ve used for research at varying points. Hehe.
 

Chargone

Captain
84 Badges
Jun 1, 2006
305
23
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Semper Fi
  • Sengoku
  • Victoria 2
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Victoria 2: Heart of Darkness
  • 500k Club
  • Cities: Skylines
  • Europa Universalis III: Collection
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Hearts of Iron: The Card Game
  • Mount & Blade: With Fire and Sword
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Pillars of Eternity
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Crusader Kings II: Horse Lords
  • Cities: Skylines - After Dark
  • Knights of Pen and Paper 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Cities: Skylines - Snowfall
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Hearts of Iron IV Sign-up
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Darkest Hour
  • Deus Vult
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Divine Wind
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • For the Motherland
  • Hearts of Iron III
  • Hearts of Iron III: Their Finest Hour
  • Hearts of Iron III Collection
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Knights of Pen and Paper +1 Edition
  • Magicka
well, for whatever my opinion is worth, i actually liked this installment.
the only thing that seems even vaguely odd to me is that it leaves off where it does [feels like there should be more.]

that...

and it really feels like something that should be closer to the beginning of a story than the end, ya know? :D

still, an interesting plan Eleanor has, there. vrrrrrrrrrry interesting. even more interesting will be to see what it is she plans to do regarding the old king's body, if Hugh's current plan 'cannot be allowed'.

i would second the enthusiasm for a list if i did not have at Least enough things to read already :D

actually, i will anyway.

go go Froggy list!
 

Culise

General Nuisance
101 Badges
Jul 17, 2003
1.224
1.899
Visit site
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Sword of the Stars II
  • Supreme Ruler 2020
  • Victoria 2
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Victoria 2: Heart of Darkness
  • Warlock: Master of the Arcane
  • 500k Club
  • Cities: Skylines
  • Crusader Kings II: Holy Knight (pre-order)
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Pride of Nations
  • Sengoku
  • Pillars of Eternity
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Crusader Kings II: Horse Lords
  • Cities: Skylines - After Dark
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Stellaris Sign-up
  • Stellaris: Nemesis
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Darkest Hour
  • Deus Vult
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Divine Wind
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • For The Glory
  • Hearts of Iron III Collection
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
Oh ho, an interesting task for dear Trempy. One could call it a bit Byzantine, no less...Alexia? Alexios? It was a history of a Komnenos, I recall...ah. It's Anna Komnene, eldest daughter of Alexios I Komnenos, that I'm thinking of, who conspired to take the throne from her younger brother and failed twice. She also was exiled to a religious order (a convent rather than a monastary), and there wrote the seminal history on her father's life, the Alexiad. A very worthy plan for Eleanor to occupy Trempwick's time, I must say, though Hugh may not be as appreciative of the final work if he is portrayed in a manner akin to Anna's brother. ^_^
 

unmerged(58610)

Field Marshal
Jul 2, 2006
5.114
44
Ah, but istead of calling the work "The Williamad" in homage to the Alexiad, he'll call it "The Trempyad" as Eleanor really wants to know what Trempy did so she knows which rocks are likely to have something nasty crawl out from under.

Trempy hasn't tried to overthrow Hugh a second time, so it isn't really fair to expect him to write such a work. Still, if he gets relly bored there are all those posions for him to make.
 

Avernite

Field Marshal
75 Badges
Apr 15, 2003
6.843
7.201
  • Imperator: Rome - Magna Graecia
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Victoria 3 Sign Up
  • Stellaris: Necroids
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Crusader Kings II: Reapers Due
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man
  • Stellaris: Digital Anniversary Edition
  • Crusader Kings III: Royal Edition
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Stellaris - Path to Destruction bundle
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mandate of Heaven
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Stellaris: Federations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cradle of Civilization
  • Crusader Kings II: Jade Dragon
  • Stellaris: Humanoids Species Pack
  • Stellaris: Apocalypse
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rule Britannia
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall - Revelations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Stellaris: Megacorp
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Imperator: Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Imperator: Rome Deluxe Edition
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall Season pass
  • Stellaris: Lithoids
  • Majesty 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
I like the idea of that battle royale. I've been standing in this discussion for so long, falling is unlikely.

Only risk is that the mods get bored before we do :p



And an interesting thing for Trempy. I wonder how well it will end, though. He probably will use it to, in code, convey somesort of message to Nell anyway :p
 

frogbeastegg

Lurking Frog
48 Badges
Apr 6, 2004
849
0
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Magicka
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Penumbra - Black Plague
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Victoria: Revolutions
  • Europa Universalis: Rome
  • Semper Fi
  • Sengoku
  • Sword of the Stars
  • Sword of the Stars II
  • Victoria 2
  • The Kings Crusade
  • Rome: Vae Victis
  • Warlock: Master of the Arcane
  • 200k Club
  • 500k Club
  • Crusader Kings II: Holy Knight (pre-order)
  • Europa Universalis III: Collection
  • Pride of Nations
  • Rise of Prussia
  • Mount & Blade: Warband
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Hearts of Iron II: Armageddon
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Deus Vult
  • Arsenal of Democracy
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Divine Wind
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • For The Glory
  • For the Motherland
  • Hearts of Iron III
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
Cadfan was not sneering this time. Much care had been lavished on his appearance; his hair was freshly washed and combed, his skin flawlessly clean, his features composed. Fashionable clothes and a body to wear them upon were his only lack.

Hugh waved the casket away after giving the severed head inside a showily prolonged inspection. “Where is his body?”

Two Welshmen had come under flag of truce to deliver the grisly prize, one to represent each of the surviving princes. Each waited for the other to answer, and when the silence drew out to an uncomfortable length each started to speak. A look between them settled the matter, and the older of the two was the one to continue. “Sire, it lies in our princes’ camp. It can be brought here within the day, should you require it.”

Now that the rebel alliance had broken and its remaining leaders were willing to submit Hugh saw no need to press Cadfan’s destruction further. He was not a vengeful man, at least he prayed so. “No. Let him be buried wherever it is traditional for his family.” Not vengeful, and not weak either; Hugh directed his marshal, “Boil the head in tar and mount it on a spike above the main gate of Chester so that all who come and go may see for themselves he price of harming one who swears allegiance to me.”

The younger emissary spoke, “Our lords hope you might find forgiveness for them in your heart now they have purged themselves of the ill-council which led them astray.”

Naturally Hugh would find forgiveness – it was part of the endless cycle of border politics. He was as incapable of conquering Wales as the locals were of fully throwing off English influence. That prevented neither party from trying their hand when opportunity was perceived; it was such a long-standing state of affairs as to be traditional. “If your lords will submit themselves before me tomorrow, give me fifty hostages to guarantee the peace, and attend my coronation to pay homage along with the rest of my lords then there shall be forgiveness.” Hugh raised a hand to still the murmur than ran through the chamber. “It is my decree that all that my lords have taken while fighting in defence of my rights shall remain in their hands. The Welsh must forfeit all claim to those lands and goods.”

The younger man nearly rose from his abject position on the floor. “That is unjust!”

Hugh slapped his palm on the arm of his great chair. “It is just! The word you seek is harsh. Which, given the numerous offences your lords have given me, is none so applicable as it might be. Am I to fund the struggle to regain what is rightfully mine? Or shall the cost fall to those who began the war, maintained it, and wrought the devastation?”

The man made the mistake of countering, “The very lords you now reward gave many of the same offences-” His remaining words were cut off in uproar; the marcher lords were most displeased at this reminder of their sins.

Finally Hugh came to his feet, stilling the shouted abuse with a roar of, “Silence!” He got it. Seated once more he said, “The difference is thus: when presented with my person my marcher lords knelt before me and asked my forgiveness. Your princes scorned me, and heaped further insult on me as they made a show of their defiance. My lords have proven themselves to me in this war, and have avenged the slights your princes visited upon me.”

The elder of the pair stilled his companion with a hand on his shoulder. “We will take your words to our lords. We cannot say what the reply will be.”

The reply would be acceptance. There would, inevitably, be some haggling over which lands were lost and, equally inevitably, some would be returned to sweeten the deal. Hugh had faith that an accommodation satisfactory to all would arise from this. He would have his rights restored and his strength proven; his lords would have forgiveness and a reward to encourage; the Welsh would have an end to a conflict they could no longer gain from.

Time to turn his mind to setting a date for his coronation.






Two works had been requested of him. An official life of William, a mere trifle to fill his days. Perhaps a scattering of people would read it. A means to get some use from a fallen man, to rehabilitate him to a small degree. Trempwick felt no zest for this one.

A private work on the man, for the eyes of his daughter and no others. A means for Nell to find familiarity – and possibly peace – with the man. A means also, he dared hope, to hold a variety of conversation with her former master. Were it not presently impossible, he could have spent long hours telling her of William and answering the inevitable questions. This one did spark something inside Trempwick’s heart, and he had faithfully occupied the last few days with its beginning.

The thought that the second, private work might be a form of conversation had done more than spark that something in his heart; it had sparked something in his mind. A third work, more private yet. This one had awakened in him a kind of burning, a need to put words down in ink and as soon and perfectly as he could manage. While his jailors believed him working on his assigned histories, much of his time would be devoted to this work. The subterfuge necessary to achieve this gave a kind of hope: he would not rot here until he went mad. He would think.

Trempwick selected a quill from the sheaf on his desk, dipped it in the inkpot and addressed the blank parchment before him. A hesitation. The beginning? Why not this.

Those who wish to win favour frequently gift that which they themselves value. Riches, horses, fine arms and armour. What of a man such as myself? I value that which you have commanded me to labour at, and so hope that my additional, unrequested work may be taken as a gift by you, my most magnificent Lady.

Yes, that felt a worthy beginning for the work which would be the sum of his career.

Trempwick dipped the quill again, and inscribed in the space he had left above his opening paragraph

Sir Raoul Trempwick to Her Highness, the Princess Eleanor, daughter to William, sixth of that name, by the grace of God King of England, Duke of Normandy and Brittany, Count of Anjou, Lord of the Welsh.

Trempwick regarded what he had written. Title was dictated by the nature of the work, a personal address from himself to Nell with the pure intent to instruct her in everything he had not yet passed along, mainly rulership. It was … too wrong. Too grand. Too lengthy. It was, in short, entirely out of character for their relationship.

Some minutes later another title occurred to him, and he wrote it at the very top, squeezing it in where there was not quite space.

The Princess.











Raoul Trempwick, hail and farewell. That’s his last scene. I wrote that more than 3 years ago; today I finally brought it out from storage and gave it a brush and polish to bring it inline with my current style. See, told you I had planned the ending long in advance ;)

I like that scene a lot. Trempwick, secluded in Repton trying to find a meaning for his life and a way back from his fall. Trempwick, starting work as a historian and writer and finding something in the prospect which appeals to him. Trempwick, trying to bridge the gap between William and Nell when it is both much too late and the perfect time. Trempwick, meditating on his life and that of the friend he came to murder, and on the rule he helped to shape and on what the one he views as the successor to that reign needs to know.

I contemplated adding some more scenes to this part; ending with Trempy’s final scene felt better. It took a while to decide on that.

Trempy’s writing has two loose parallels with real historical works. One has been spotted and named; who can identify the other? The second one is far easier. :D




Incognitia, as you and a few others have expressed interest I shall start considering books for such a list.

Chargone, there could have been more. I could do a scene or two more with Ranulf. But … it’s not necessary, doesn’t add anything much, and it’s not got anything at all to do with the story at large. I’m not convinced it’s a good idea to spend a page or two on Fulk and Ranulf talking about the unimportant revelations of an unimportant bit part character’s past.

Culise, you were the first to identify the first loose historical parallel in Trempy’s writing. Well done! Can you get the second?

Chief, Trempyad is a lot less of a mouthful than the name by which I know the work. The official name, which hasn’t and never will appear in the story, is ‘The Deeds of William, King of the English, sixth of that name’. Trempy himself calls it ‘William’s Book’ for short. The second, private work on William does not have a title of any sort. The third project is the only one to be named in the story itself. So many bits of knowledge which never get used, huh.

Avernite, I almost feel I should apologise. No more Trempy for you to read now. :eek:
 

unmerged(58610)

Field Marshal
Jul 2, 2006
5.114
44
the Princess - up to that I thought you might be taking inspiration from Procopius' work on Justinian. Sigh, The Prince by Machiavelli is the inspiration.

Were I a Lord in this realm, I'd choose Hugh over Trempwick as king. Hugh's more likely to leave his Lords alone so long as they stay loyal, whereas Trempwick would never be content to leave things alone. Trempy would meddle.

Hugh does owe Trempwick a debt. Without the pressure of the civil war, Hugh would never have developed the skills and confidence necessary to rule England.
 

Avernite

Field Marshal
75 Badges
Apr 15, 2003
6.843
7.201
  • Imperator: Rome - Magna Graecia
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Victoria 3 Sign Up
  • Stellaris: Necroids
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Crusader Kings II: Reapers Due
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man
  • Stellaris: Digital Anniversary Edition
  • Crusader Kings III: Royal Edition
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Stellaris - Path to Destruction bundle
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mandate of Heaven
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Stellaris: Federations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cradle of Civilization
  • Crusader Kings II: Jade Dragon
  • Stellaris: Humanoids Species Pack
  • Stellaris: Apocalypse
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rule Britannia
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall - Revelations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Stellaris: Megacorp
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Imperator: Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Imperator: Rome Deluxe Edition
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall Season pass
  • Stellaris: Lithoids
  • Majesty 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
Ahh, but Chief, you know the great kings are those who meddle so much that they get more power from the nobles, using that to crush foreigners. It's sort of how all the great kingdoms came to be, and the lack of such kings for a lengthy period killed Germany.


And no more Trempy? You will pay for this, little frog! I shall find you, I shall steal the ghost of Raoul, and he shall haunt you for the rest of your days! Never shall you eat without fearing poison, or hear a door close without being scared. Every day could be your last day of sanity if you do not correct this error! :mad:

:p
 

frogbeastegg

Lurking Frog
48 Badges
Apr 6, 2004
849
0
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Magicka
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Penumbra - Black Plague
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Victoria: Revolutions
  • Europa Universalis: Rome
  • Semper Fi
  • Sengoku
  • Sword of the Stars
  • Sword of the Stars II
  • Victoria 2
  • The Kings Crusade
  • Rome: Vae Victis
  • Warlock: Master of the Arcane
  • 200k Club
  • 500k Club
  • Crusader Kings II: Holy Knight (pre-order)
  • Europa Universalis III: Collection
  • Pride of Nations
  • Rise of Prussia
  • Mount & Blade: Warband
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Hearts of Iron II: Armageddon
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Deus Vult
  • Arsenal of Democracy
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Divine Wind
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • For The Glory
  • For the Motherland
  • Hearts of Iron III
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
Ach, that's it? It's over?
Not yet! That was Trempy's final scene. There's still a bit left in the overall tale. Maybe 2 parts, depending on how I work things.

Anywho, must dash back off again. I'm working on a job application and it needs to be done and sent ASAP.
 

Avernite

Field Marshal
75 Badges
Apr 15, 2003
6.843
7.201
  • Imperator: Rome - Magna Graecia
  • Crusader Kings II: Conclave
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mare Nostrum
  • Stellaris
  • Stellaris: Galaxy Edition
  • Victoria 3 Sign Up
  • Stellaris: Necroids
  • Europa Universalis 4: Emperor
  • Crusader Kings II: Reapers Due
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man
  • Stellaris: Digital Anniversary Edition
  • Crusader Kings III: Royal Edition
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cossacks
  • Stellaris - Path to Destruction bundle
  • Europa Universalis IV: Mandate of Heaven
  • Europa Universalis IV: Third Rome
  • Stellaris: Federations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Cradle of Civilization
  • Crusader Kings II: Jade Dragon
  • Stellaris: Humanoids Species Pack
  • Stellaris: Apocalypse
  • Europa Universalis IV: Rule Britannia
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall - Revelations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Dharma
  • Stellaris: Megacorp
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Imperator: Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Imperator: Rome Deluxe Edition
  • Europa Universalis IV: Golden Century
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Stellaris: Ancient Relics
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • Europa Universalis IV: Call to arms event
  • Age of Wonders: Planetfall Season pass
  • Stellaris: Lithoids
  • Majesty 2
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado
  • Europa Universalis IV: Pre-order
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
Not yet! That was Trempy's final scene. There's still a bit left in the overall tale. Maybe 2 parts, depending on how I work things.

I'm gonna suffer from withdrawal! :(

Good luck with the aplication, though :)
 

unmerged(58610)

Field Marshal
Jul 2, 2006
5.114
44
Can't have an Avernite suffering withdrawal symptoms!

Raoul is still a peer of the realm and should be at the coronation. He's an object lesson.

Hugh wants his Lords lined up with him. Trempy's urge to meddle in their affairs would hinder that. Your prescription, Avernite, for a great kingdom is not one I share. A bit like a carnival ride with the safeties off.
 

frogbeastegg

Lurking Frog
48 Badges
Apr 6, 2004
849
0
  • Victoria 2: A House Divided
  • Magicka
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Penumbra - Black Plague
  • Europa Universalis IV: Res Publica
  • Victoria: Revolutions
  • Europa Universalis: Rome
  • Semper Fi
  • Sengoku
  • Sword of the Stars
  • Sword of the Stars II
  • Victoria 2
  • The Kings Crusade
  • Rome: Vae Victis
  • Warlock: Master of the Arcane
  • 200k Club
  • 500k Club
  • Crusader Kings II: Holy Knight (pre-order)
  • Europa Universalis III: Collection
  • Pride of Nations
  • Rise of Prussia
  • Mount & Blade: Warband
  • Crusader Kings II: Way of Life
  • Europa Universalis IV: Common Sense
  • Europa Universalis III
  • Hearts of Iron II: Armageddon
  • Crusader Kings II
  • Crusader Kings II: Charlemagne
  • Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome
  • Crusader Kings II: The Old Gods
  • Crusader Kings II: Rajas of India
  • Crusader Kings II: The Republic
  • Crusader Kings II: Sons of Abraham
  • Crusader Kings II: Sunset Invasion
  • Crusader Kings II: Sword of Islam
  • Deus Vult
  • Arsenal of Democracy
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
  • Divine Wind
  • Europa Universalis IV
  • Europa Universalis IV: Art of War
  • Europa Universalis IV: Conquest of Paradise
  • Europa Universalis IV: Wealth of Nations
  • For The Glory
  • For the Motherland
  • Hearts of Iron III
  • Heir to the Throne
  • Europa Universalis III Complete
Eleanor said, “You asked to speak with me?”

Edrik doffed his hat and bowed. “Ah … With your husband, in truth, your Highness.”

“He is not available. I take it you have come to make your recommendations with regard to the land clearance?”

“Yes, your Highness. It needs only his lordship’s decision and then work can begin.”

“Well then.” Eleanor settled herself in the nearby window seat and indicated the reeve should stand at her side. “Tell me your thoughts and a decision shall be made.”

Edrik’s Adam’s apple bobbed. “Ah … his lordship …”

“My lord husband has gone hunting. This is the first day he has taken entirely to himself in more than a month – he will not be disturbed for anything less than full scale invasion. I am authorised to deal with things here in his absence.”

“No doubt, your Highness.” The man tortured his hat between his hands. “Only, I was not instructed … That is …”

Hawise stepped in before Eleanor could say something pithy. “You fear to get into trouble.”

Edrik’s shoulders eased, and he nodded. “I would not wish to upset my lord.”

It was not the reeve’s fault. He meant no slight. If she believed otherwise Eleanor would have unleashed a smidgeon of royal wrath on him, a touch sufficient to send him scuttling back from whence he came with his ears on fire. “If you prefer to wait until tomorrow to present your findings to my lord husband, that is acceptable. However, I say again that he has all matters here in my hands.”

“Ah …” The poor man’s hat had lost all dignity; its jaunty trio of feathers were now bent and the velvet was sadly creased. “Well …”

“Allow me to place it bluntly. You may delay and possibly incur my lord husband’s displeasure for that delay, for refusing to deal with me, and for increasing his workload. Or you may speak now, and possibly incur my lord husband’s displeasure for not waiting for him.” Eleanor caught Hawise’s slight frown and knew she had sounded sterner than intended. More gently she added, “Whichever you choose, be assured my lord husband is a most reasonable man. You will not suffer or find your decision held against you in the future.”

Edrik went down on one knee. “I am a humble man, your Highness. I’m reeve of my village and consider that an honour, though it’s nothing to any of good birth. I confess I am overwhelmed. I …” He scratched at his scrawny neck, as though in his mind he could already feel a noose fitted about it. “I am not sure which way to turn.”

Eleanor twisted her wedding ring about on her finger as she thought rapidly. The problem was a common one. A princess on the one hand, a newly raised lord of dubious origins on the other, and the age old question of who controlled whom and which dignity would be trodden on by what. “Come back tomorrow,” she advised in the end. This way she was seen to defer to Fulk, which protected his dignity, and in turn Fulk could assure the man he was not having his power stolen by his wife.

Edrik bowed, and stood. “Thank you, your Highness. I’m sorry. It’s just … Well, normally it’d be clear.”

“Your conscientiousness does you credit.” Eleanor waved him out of the solar before she said something altogether ruder. When he’d gone she slumped back against the wall and massaged her temples. “You know what is most infuriating about this?”

Hawise suggested, “The fact you and Fulk together run into this several times each day?”

“No. Well, nearly.” Eleanor leaned to look out of the slitted window at the bustle down in the bailey. A wagon was making its way through the main gates, piled with sacks and with two youths walking at its flanks. “Were I somewhat lower in rank, or Fulk somewhat higher, there would be no problem. Narrow the chasm but a little – and it would still be wide indeed – and people would not baulk.”

“Your marriage works the same as any other; people are slowly coming to see that. Each person you convince is one less.”

Eleanor scowled. “Easy for you to say. People are not afraid to speak to you in case you are using your husband like a puppet!”

“That,” Hawise said with an infuriating amount of seriousness, “is because I do not have a husband.”

A cushion was at hand and really it was too tempting; as the maid ducked Eleanor sweetly informed her, “I shall find you one!”

Hawise bent to retrieve the cushion and hugged it to her chest. “Thank you, but I should prefer to find my own.”

“That sounds suspiciously as though you have someone in mind.” Eleanor suddenly remembered Hawise asking after Waltheof after Alnwick, and a hundred other such tiny signs which had gone unremarked during the stresses of the past months. Serious maid and serious knight; what a perfect match. “Well, I am sure you will tell me should you find someone,” she said, mindful of her friend’s feelings. What if Waltheof showed no matching interest? This demanded further investigation …

At that moment Aveis burst in, shutting the door behind herself and leaning on it to catch her breath. “I believe this is what you were waiting for.” She hurried across the room, still breathing heavily, and held out a section of cloth with a sample pattern embroidered on it.

Eleanor inspected the pattern, deciphered it, and couldn’t hold back her beam of triumph. “The Welsh are suing for peace. Dated five days ago. Not bad, not bad – but it can be better. It must be better.” She was on her feet, pacing from one end of the room to the other, unable to keep still in her excitement. This was the first proper result from the network she was working so hard to forge out of the remnants of Miles’ and Trempwick’s old systems. “Now, we must see how long it takes for official word to reach us, and we must check the veracity of this.”

Aveis took over the seat Eleanor had left vacant and fanned herself with one hand. “It came with a chapman. At first I thought he was bothering me to buy his rubbish.”

“We hardly want him to stroll up to the gates and announce he has a secret message for me,” Eleanor said absently. Word from Wales to Carlisle in five days! And carried across a network patched together out of two shattered halves. It was a start. A good start. Three days had been the usual time for such a run under Trempwick, two if the people passing word pushed themselves remorselessly. Eleanor ran the cloth through her hands. “You will go back to him and say I am interested in buying sufficient of this border to edge the hem, collar and cuffs of a dress.” As Aveis opened the door Eleanor called, “And Aveis? Be more circumspect, please. I am not so interested in a sample from a mere trader that you need to come running.”

The older woman blushed. “I shall take my purse down with me and buy some things myself. Let people think that’s why I became over-excited.”

“Success.” Eleanor stopped, staring sightlessly at a wall hanging. “The main difference is in birds. We have not as many …”

Hawise looked at her blankly. “Pardon?”

“Messenger birds. Trempwick had many of them. In most instances word flew from one part of the realm to another, literally.” Eleanor broke away from the hanging and from her thoughts to smile at her friend. “At the moment there are large gaps in that coverage; this message here was carried more by horse than wing. It will take money to breed and train more, but it must be done. Hugh will have to fund it; heaven knows I could not afford it myself. And, perhaps, if he will fund certain other things I shall be able to spare enough to give you a dowry so you may pursue your mystery man.”






Eleanor covertly inspected Fulk for damage as he dismounted. He was very muddy and a large splash of blood soaked his left leg, but he was not obvious damaged. He did stink to high heaven, so she kept a tactful distance. “Welcome home, my lord. Was your hunting a success?”

“I took a deer myself. A single spear blow.” He thrust an imaginary spear down at a target, doubtless a faithful recreation of his feat. “And between us we took several more, and a wolf.” He waved at one of the huntsmen. “Hoi! Show my lady the wolf.” Fulk ran a hand over his chaotic hair as if he now realised he looked as though he had been through a hedge backwards. “You may have the skin of that one for whatever you will.”

Eleanor made appreciative noises over the carcass trussed up on a spear shaft, and added a few more in praise of his heroic deeds. Once that was out of the way she was able to ask, “The blood is not yours then?” without appearing to smother him.

“The deer’s,” he replied. He stretched his arms and worked his left shoulder, which Eleanor knew was still prone to stiffness after its wound. “I should do this more often – it’s been an age since I last had chance to hunt. When money permits I shall get a hawk.” He gave his horse a final pat and started towards the keep. “Perhaps you’d like one too, my best beloved?”

“I have been hawking but once in my life-”

“I remember,” he answered, with a sidelong glance. “You were afraid the bird would eat your fingers. It’s part of what you should have had and weren’t allowed by Trempwick. It’s yours if you want it now. Well,” he amended, “ in some months when we can afford it.”

“If it will be in some months then I hardly need make a decision now.” Eleanor softened her words with a smile. “I thank you. I will give it some thought, I promise you. But I have not had chance to give you my own news.”

That got his attention. “Oh?”

Eleanor raised her voice so she could be heard by many of those in the bailey. “We are cordially invited to my brother’s coronation. Those who threatened the peace of the realm have been vanquished and God’s favour for Hugh is now clear for all to see. He shall be crowned two weeks from this Wednesday.” Hugh’s messenger had brought the good news half a day behind her network.

“Two weeks?” Fulk rubbed the bridge of his nose. “We had best sort ourselves to leave the day after tomorrow, or we’ll be hard pressed to make it in good time.”

Eleanor laughed. “See? I told you that if you did not take your chance to relax today you would not get another soon!”

“Victory.” Fulk turned to face the people gathering in the courtyard as the news spread. “Victory!” he roared, raising his fist in the air. “God save the king! God save lord Hugh!” The response was of satisfactory enthusiasm and volume. When it died away Fulk declared, “A feast tonight to celebrate! Food and drink for all who come, right down to the humblest dog boy!” That gathered a louder cheer. Resuming his walk to the keep Fulk asked quietly, “We do have enough for that, don’t we?”

Eleanor gave him an exasperated look. “If we feed the bog boy the wolf and let him drink the worst ale, yes.” Relenting she kissed him on the cheek. “It was well done. A fine gesture which will win hearts for yourself and for Hugh.”










Gah! I had a bunch of unexpected calls on my time, including a lengthy and crappy exam resulting from that job application. Still waiting to find out if I passed …

On the positive side, I think I may have found a way to get the time between the awesome beginning and the equally awesome ending of that Trempwick short story to work. Shall have to see once Eleanor is complete and I try to write it.

The next part will be very long and will be the final part. After 4 years the prospect is quite similar to peering over a cliff edge and knowing you must jump.