The Song of Wessex

[Tyler96]

That Iberia is such a mess.

Can't say I'm fond of Holy Orders winning Crusades. Is this from before they had any interesting flavour, too?

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Maud does see things with a very clear eye.

It is remarkable, in its way, how ineffectual Gilbride is. He makes an interesting contrast with King Arthur. One is a power indeed, the other impotent, and yet both are remarkbly self-centred and incapable of acknowledging that there might even be another view of things. They are alike - perhaps why Gilbride recognised King Arthur for what he was and has become - he saw himself.

There probably is something similar between Gilbride and King Arthur. The biggest difference is the power you mention. Scotland has had a low long slide to near irrelevance so in some way, the marriage union with England is a save for them even if they don't see it.

That Iberia is such a mess.

Can't say I'm fond of Holy Orders winning Crusades. Is this from before they had any interesting flavour, too?

It's from the vanilla game so likely no interesting flavor. Holy Orders do tend to win a lot of them over other actors because they put so much into it. I never lifted a finger for Andalusia and did not really see too many others doing so either. And yes - Iberia has been a mess for a good long time.


To all - I was pretty surprised that Gilbride lasted in prison for as long as he did but it provided a nice opportunity to have one last scene with him. He's the last tie of the old guard Scots (Prince Duncan was fairly young when the other brothers died.) Now we begin to see the new which...well, it's still Scotland.

Thanks for the comments and look for the next scene either tmrw or the next day. Already working on chapter 9.

 

[Nikolai]

A jump of 10 years, I wonder what more have changed during those years. Arthur is not known to slouch.

 

[coz1]

A jump of 10 years, I wonder what more have changed during those years. Arthur is not known to slouch.

No time jump there - just a typo. I typed 1234 instead of 1324. King Arthur remains at war in Ireland and Prince Gilbride just died in Scotland.

 

[Bullfilter]

A bit of a scene setter there for the next chapter. Gilbride finally slithers off. He found out there is always a bigger fish!

“He chose poorly”: a little nod there to Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade? Or just a happy coincidence?

As to Arthur Jr: is he now over-guessing these dreams and prophecies? Or is there some incipient health problem or character trait at play to reject his own wife’s advances?

 

[coz1]

A bit of a scene setter there for the next chapter. Gilbride finally slithers off. He found out there is always a bigger fish!

“He chose poorly”: a little nod there to Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade? Or just a happy coincidence?

As to Arthur Jr: is he now over-guessing these dreams and prophecies? Or is there some incipient health problem or character trait at play to reject his own wife’s advances?

Indeed it was a bit of a scene setter - and make no mistake I was surely referencing Last Crusade. One of my favorite lines of movie history.

As for the Prince, he is likely over-guessing as you suggest. The thought was another daughter and he doesn't want to tempt fate. As things go, that may not last, but for now he is still taken by that fear.

 

[coz1]

​

The Song of Wessex​

* * *

Ulster, Ireland - January 1325​

King’s Arthur’s army numbered less than when it began in Ireland. Yet over three thousand soldiers marched through icy winds as they made their way to the villages of Connor and Kell, the next major objective in Ulster. A stone bridge spanned the Kells Water and a nearby keep controlled the crossing for many of the highlanders of Moray than made their way into Ireland. With a heavy snow seeming to bear down on the royal train, the King had decided to make camp for some few days as it passed and now he sat within his tent and was pleased to meet with an old friend...or perhaps nemesis.

The Bishop of St. Andrews was fitted out in military garb over his ecclesiastical trappings and offered all deference as he handed over the letter, “Her Grace Queen Maud is most charitable and giving, Your Grace. She does wish to repay you the favor to her for the retaking of the lands of Gowrie in this last war and now sends to you fifteen hundred of her finest for your wars to Ireland.”

“That is most kind of her, my Lord Bishop,” Arthur sat his chair and peered on with a sure eye, “Yet I wonder...where is the Lord Brice? Should it not be her Marshal that travels these men to here rather than a man of God?”

Bishop Ewan lowered his head with a grin before raising it once more with an equally sure eye, “Mayhap you do not hear, Your Grace...taken as you were with the siege in Downpatrick. A man we both knew has gone to God and Prince Gilchrist is dead.”

“I thank you for bringing me word of this, my Lord Bishop,” King Arthur smiled as he crossed himself, “The Almighty is indeed fair. Gave the Prince his chance and then time to repent. Yet...it could not last forever.”

“Indeed not, Your Grace...” the Bishop showed another grin, “...and as I did promise, we are all better off in the after.”

King Arthur crossed a leg and held to his ale with a sharper eye, “You caused quite a row within my House, sir. I was not aware than you knew my Lady wife.”

“Your...late...wife, Your Grace,” the Bishop corrected, “And another most deserving of her fate, if you mind not my saying.”

“I do mind,” Arthur uncrossed his leg and sat forward, “No matter her faults, she was Queen of my realm and mother to my children.”

Bishop Ewan lowered his head, “Then forgive me, Your Grace. Let me say then that you were most judicious in your treatment of the matter. I humbly submit myself and hope that we may continue to find good days ahead, as the Lord would allow.”

The King watched him for a time before sitting back, “A thing may not be undone, my Lord Bishop. Yet you now serve the Queen Maud and so too, my son. I would task you to be more careful in your dealings going forward and mayhap spend more time at prayer than wagging your tongue.”

“Quite so, Your Grace,” the Bishop showed agreement.

Arthur took down some ale and then found a renewed smile, “So...we are thankful that our good daughter feels comfort enough to send her finest. You may correct me if wrong, sir, but the lands of the late Prince now fall to a daughter? Yes?”

“You are most perfectly correct, Your Grace,” Bishop Ewan gave nod, “She is named the Lady Mary and is now Duchess of Albany. It is thankful to God and all that your son and the Queen were ever fortunate to find a second son as the Princes of Scotland...”

“Have a way of dying prematurely,” Arthur showed a stern eye once more.

The Bishop replied with confidence, “Surely not your august grandson, Your Grace. The House of Wessex shows sterner stock than that. Yet indeed...the late Prince was left with only two daughters, both of age. The Lady Mary shows a fine head to her and both she and the younger Annabella are pretty things. Her Grace has called her cousin to her so that all may be made right within their House.”

“And thus the reason for the Lord Brice, I may presume?” Arthur questioned, “So that he may make certain of all happy families?”

The Bishop tried to smile, “Merely a precaution, Your Grace. A...show of strength...by the Queen.”

“Then I am sorry to miss it, my Lord Bishop,” the King drained his ale and stood to fetch more, “Likely far more interesting than the siege at Downpatrick. I do find the Scots court highly entertaining. As I see lands fall to me, I think to much rather see tempers fall to others.”

​

“I assure you, Your Grace...” the Bishop suggested, “...the meet will be most familial and surely guided by the wise hand of your fine son, the Prince.”

“The King, sir,” Arthur turned with full drink and corrected immediately, “Of Scotland, sir. As you promised...sir. And I wish I heard from you the truth. Alas...my Lord Mayor Andrew is tasked elsewhere at the now and so does not send as many missives from Scotland as he once did.”

Attempting to change the subject away from himself, the Bishop showed a grin, “I have indeed kept in touch with your man, Your Grace. His last letter I believe was dated from Luxembourg? In the Empire?”

“Then you know much and more, my Lord Bishop,” the King returned to his chair, “Pray tell...what is your interest?”

Bishop Ewan kept his smile, “None, Your Grace. Merely pleased to see your efforts so well in these parts such that you look to your next desire. Queen Maud is ever grateful for your assistance and hopes to continue being such a good friend and daughter in the times ahead.”

“I think to like you, my Lord Bishop...” King Arthur stated with a stern eye, “...and also to loathe you. It surprises me not that you enter this camp with your Queen’s men as I know you to share the proclivities of my Lord Mayor. Why not go straight to the source, eh?”

Bishop Ewan attempted to deflect, “I know not…

“Come now, sir,” Arthur interrupted him, “Be not shy with me. We have had dealings in the past and I know you to be a shrewd man as you know me to be the same. You wish my thinking and so I shall give it to you. I arrived in Ireland with over ten thousand soldiers. Split they are now with the other half under the command of my Lord of York. Yet as you know so much, surely you are aware that I am faced with rebellion from the Welsh in Glamorgan. Who knows why? After all these many years, the Welsh remain a fickle bunch. So I am forced to send Lord Lionel home to deal with them. Is this the sort of information that you seek?”

“I am sorry to hear of your rebellion, Your Grace,” the Bishop showed a sad eye.

Arthur grinned, “Mayhap you are. Yet the war continues. My Lord Marshal finds great victory in the highlands and even the Breton threat is put low by my Lord of Bourbon. The war is fought across many places and so...to give you the nugget that you most require...of course I look to another. That young whelp in the Empire? I put to you a question, my Lord Bishop...what is an Emperor when he is not an Emperor?”

“A threat, Your Grace...” Bishop Ewan attempted to answer, “...with him fearing his place?”

“A lessor King of the Germans,” Arthur replied with a grin, “Yet...who may know? I would find out. Is this the sort of thing you would wish...my Lord Bishop?”

Bishop Ewan gave nod, “Her Grace Queen Maud would follow you in all ways, Your Grace. Never make mistake...”

“I certainly don’t make one twice...sir,” the King stood, “So I thank you for your assistance...as I do your Queen. And I think to see my charge here made right. I’ll see to your men and we shall find glory. When I am done...mayhap I will visit to see my son. Let us hope that on that day the Scots court is as sound as I have made it.”

“Your Grace...” the Bishop lowered his head, “...you are most benevolent.”

Arthur showed a smile, “They call me just, my Lord Bishop. I know not if that is true. Yet I reward my friends and punish my enemies. Allow me to send you home with some advice...choose which is the better.”

​

 

[Bullfilter]

Well, a nice sparring session between the two shadow boxers there. Both are effective for their weights, but one is the heavyweight and the other the light middleweight . The smaller can dance and punch from a distance but should avoid getting into clinches. And certainly not be caught on the ropes!

That was an expensive siege of Downpatrick. The king got impatient for a result and assaulted?

 

[Nikolai]

Ewan is a dangerous man. But a big boon when the king and his goals are the same. Problem is, you never know for sure if they are.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Well, a nice sparring session between the two shadow boxers there. Both are effective for their weights, but one is the heavyweight and the other the light middleweight . The smaller can dance and punch from a distance but should avoid getting into clinches. And certainly not be caught on the ropes!

That was an expensive siege of Downpatrick. The king got impatient for a result and assaulted?

On the specific question, no. It was just a nice long siege and I likely had more men there than needed. I wished a quick end and support limits surely caused a lot of those casualties (along with certain small events.)

As for the good Bishop, to be honest I had let him go after serving his original purpose but he showed up again. I had to use the scene. He may appear later when appropriate because I like writing for him. But he sits at the edges. Need to find the right spots for him.

Ewan is a dangerous man. But a big boon when the king and his goals are the same. Problem is, you never know for sure if they are.

For King and Bishop alike. They are both pugilists as suggested above, but one is much better at it than the other. I will leave it to you to determine which is which.


To all - Another scene that is a bit of a setter as well as keeping time. I wanted to at least make it interesting. I like Bishop Ewan and I wish I could use him more, but events are few and far between unless I make things up completely (which, of course, I have done in the past.) These last two scenes are leading to something, however. Small hints are peppered in. I hope that it shows the King in all of his manner as he relates to others and sets the scene for what happens next. And of course, thank you for reading and definitely giving comment!

 

[stnylan]

I would not trust that Bishop as far as I could spit. He is a loose canon - or perhaps saying a loose catapult would be a better phrase as this is still the early 14th century.

 

[coz1]

I would not trust that Bishop as far as I could spit. He is a loose canon - or perhaps saying a loose catapult would be a better phrase as this is still the early 14th century.

You are smart to distrust him (as is King Arthur. ) I fear I have not utilized him as a character as well as I could have, but it is nice when there is some chance as he is fun to write for.

 

[coz1]

​

The Song of Wessex​

* * *

Cupar, Scotland - June 1325​

Cousin Mary. It was surely always to be cousin Mary. The number of times she had met the girl, Maud could count on one hand. Her father was to prison and Maud was never in the thought to give him his freedom to cause havoc and chance losing her throne. Uncle Duncan handled it and for these last years, both daughters of the late Prince Gilbride had been silent...at least to her. Prince Duncan had the good sense not to bring their various entreaties to her. He knew the answer well enough. Yet when Gilbride died, she had to see them. Had to see Lady Mary. Albany was rightly hers now and even if that disappointed uncle Duncan, to not grant her the land would disappoint every other Scottish noble. Ones she held a tenuous grasp upon. And the meeting had not gone well.

Mary had arrived alongside her younger sister Annabella with a regal train following her. True, her father had briefly been King, but that did not give her right to show up the actual Queen. Maud had not been happy. Both Prince Duncan and her husband Arthur had cautioned that it was only to prove her place in the realm of Scotland, but Maud knew better. She had not spent time at the English court without learning one or two things as her father had counseled. Perhaps it was a misstep for Maud to greet her cousin sitting her throne in the great hall, but that was required. Lady Mary must know who was Queen and who was not. The younger Annabella had been most gracious and kind. Lady Mary, however, was in no mood for pleasantries.

Maud’s hand was cramped from writing, but she remembered the afternoon all too well. Late March with the spring soon to follow and a thaw. Yet the great hall was like to be filled with ice such was the coldness. She remembered that Lady Mary held a sadness to her face, even with her cold stare. A pretty girl...young lady, to be sure. But Mary showed a firmness that Maud knew all too well. She shared that with her cousin and under different circumstances, they might have been fine friends. They were not on that day.

Prince Duncan had ushered them in and tried his best to show the familial spirit as he announced the Queen’s cousins, “Our family does arrive, Your Grace. I present to you our Lady Mary and our Lady Annabella.”

Mary’s first response showed what would eventually happen, “I come to take His Grace, my father home. He should be found to Crieff and no other.”

Not even a chance for Maud to say a word. There was less etiquette in the Scots court, but still. That was a breach of protocol and Maud responded by tightening her hand to her husband, “We’ve barely had chance to say hello, cousin. I deeply regret...”

Lady Mary had stepped forward, “I doubt that you regret much. My father’s body likely rots at the now as much as you and yours have ever had any feeling for him. I see your Lord husband there...so called King and named Prince. You married the son of the man that wished my father dead.”

“I think you speak cruelly...” Prince Arthur had tried to answer for his wife, but Maud was having none of it.

“Your father is perfectly well...in his state,” she had replied with a stern voice, “And I ask you to here not for recriminations but to make whole what is yours. Though he was prisoner to my father and then myself, we did allow our uncle to maintain title as Duke of Albany. It was for your sake as much as any other, my Lady. Though the sad day comes upon us, I am here to offer it to you as rightful heir.”

“You offer me nothing but what’s mine already,” Lady Mary had replied.

Her sister Annabella had attempted to chide her for rudeness, but Mary was not done, “You don’t give...my Lady. You take. Your husband takes. Your father by law...now he takes and in great measure!”

That was it. That was the moment. Etched to her mind as if yesterday. The hall had erupted in howls of displeasure, and for whose side she knew not. Arthur had attempted to scold the Lady and Prince Duncan had tried to play peacemaker, but the two women had locked eyes and from that point on, there was no turning back. It was all Maud had in her to allow the Lady to leave her court. She had little choice as Mary had brought with her a fine contingent of men from Crieff. The Scots guard were no match at that time and the others were off to King Arthur in Ireland. The Bishop of St. Andrews had not even returned. Yet Maud had stood and demanded that she leave and take her poor father with her.

“I’ll do so...and take Albany as well,” Mary had stated with a fierce eye, “And when I return I shall raise a force larger than you know...my Queen. If in truth that’s what you are. Your husband there...he looks to France as his next great accomplishment. That his father provides for him, I might add. They hold the elective there, I am told. I think it high time we did the same here to Scotland! We wish not an English King. We wish not that man’s son to sit our throne!”

Many a fighting man had held the hilt of their sword at that moment, but Maud had calmed them, “Then go, cousin. Go to your home. You will think better of it when you take a moment to consider...”

“I’ve considered all I needs must consider...cousin,” Mary had replied, “The next time I see you, I shall come armed. You’d better do the same.”

Lord Brice was not certain that she should leave and even Prince Duncan suggested that they try to talk more, but Maud had found her fill. “Let her go,” she had said. And away Lady Mary went. That was three months ago. Now? Her cousin had been true to her word. Barely a fortnight passed before letter came saying that nearly two thousand soldiers had been called forth in favor of Albany. Word was sent immediately to King Arthur in Ireland that her gift of Scots soldiers must be rescinded. They were needed at home. Strathearn and Gowrie both rose up against her and now all she could do was raise eighteen hundred to protect her and her children. And her crown.

“Sweet dove...” Prince Arthur stated as he entered their chamber and found her writing more letters, “...I think it time to leave for the south. There is naught else we may do and must needs leave Lord Brice to his efforts.”

“I am not yet done,” Maud answered as she looked back to the parchment and found no words to write.

Arthur moved to her and held to her shoulders, “There is no more for you to do. I can hear the battle in the distance. You must take flight with our children…”

“I will not stand down to her!” Maud turned with a fierce gaze.

“You’ve no choice, sweet dove,” Arthur bent his knee and held her hands, “At least go south to Lothian if you wish not to find Lancaster. I will stay to here...I promise. I will see word off to my father...and he does well at the now. Lord Anselm sees promise to the north in the highlands and just yesterday I received word that the Lord of Bourbon has taken Vannes in Brittany. He will come to our rescue...but not today. You must keep our son safe!”

“Arthur?” Maud looked to her husband with a great worry in her eyes, “She’s right...isn’t she?”

Arthur gently kissed her cheek, “Your cousin is right about very little, Maudy. But she is determined.”

“How can I be Queen if I must always count upon your father for support?” Maud questioned with some few tears.

He brushed a tear from her cheek, “It is not just my father’s support, sweet dove. You have mine...always! I will write to him myself. Tell him that I needs must have my men from Lancaster at the ready...the men of Hereford...and Bardney. I will hold fast your keep, my love. I would not let you lose your crown.”

“I am no man’s vassal, Arthur!” Maud stood and pulled her hands away, “I am Queen of this realm in the eyes of God and men alike! I will not forsake my Kingdom!”

“Nor shall you,” Arthur was quick to stand and hold her, “And I am merely your husband that wishes you well. Please, Maudy...go to Lothian with the children. Allow me to do the one thing I can to help you. Fight for you.”

She looked into his eyes and finally held him close, “Will it always be like this?”

“As long as I have breath to my body, you will forever be safe, sweet dove,” Prince Arthur held her face in his hands before he kissed her.

As she drew back gently, Maud felt to his cheek, “You must promise me to be careful! I could lose this crown, Arthur. Yet I think not that I could lose you!”

“You will have no fear of that, my Lady,” Arthur held her close with a smile, “Go and seek your sanctuary. I make promise to you now...I will seek you out when we are done.”

​

 

[stnylan]

Aye, Maud accomodation with England - made by her father - is the only thing keeping her in power. It no doubt has a most bitter taste. What the schemers cannot seemingly appreciate is that, without that deal, Scotland would be just another crown on the English King's head. They would be England's minor vassals in fact, instead of this current situation. Maud has a better grasp on this than the Prince - but then Prince Arthur does seem to (somehow) have a more romantic and less cynical outlook on things - despite all the efforts of his parents to do away with it.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Aye, Maud accomodation with England - made by her father - is the only thing keeping her in power. It no doubt has a most bitter taste. What the schemers cannot seemingly appreciate is that, without that deal, Scotland would be just another crown on the English King's head. They would be England's minor vassals in fact, instead of this current situation. Maud has a better grasp on this than the Prince - but then Prince Arthur does seem to (somehow) have a more romantic and less cynical outlook on things - despite all the efforts of his parents to do away with it.

It was definitely a point I wanted to highlight in this scene. It has been made in the past in both the work and by you, the commentators. And it will continue. Scotland is now but a husk of former glory. In fact, as of this scene, reduced to nothing but Fife/Cupar. Moray holds the north (and I hope the highlander aspect of that works) and even the Kingdom of the Isles holds Argyll. Maud is a strange and wonderful character for all of this. She's fighting not just for herself, but for her son. Prince Arthur understands that and (romantic as it may be) is ready to stand up for her no matter what. I cannot say where that leaves him, but these things all color Maud as the story continues.


To all - I have to say that this chapter is the one that lead me to the final moments. I'm in the midst now of Chapter 10 in the writing and I can actually see the light at the end of the tunnel. We grow closer to the final bits merged with the early suggestions, but there remains a lot that happens in between. The Prince and Maud, the King (and what we know of him later), the growth of the realm and what that means...it all fits, I promise.

Hopefully you enjoy and thank you to those that give comment as we get there.

 

[Nikolai]

Scotland really would be better off as another crown on Arthur's head. I wonder if this is where Arthur jr goes into a blaze of glory? It certainly seems alluded to.

 

[Bullfilter]

Hmm, what does the crafty hobbit have in its pocketses? Tricksy hobbit! Arthur’s valiant demise? Or his surprising survival? For all we know, he could have died only shortly before the reflective scenes so many years later! I doubt that, but just riffing there. I like the suspense.

With Mary’s insurrection out in the open, at least she can be dealt with. I suspect she has chosen ... poorly. But may cause some pain as she lashes out in what will surely be her death throes (figurative, if not literal).

 

[Tyler96]

I kinda admire Mary's audacity, to be honest.

Even if it is profoundly foolish.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Scotland really would be better off as another crown on Arthur's head. I wonder if this is where Arthur jr goes into a blaze of glory? It certainly seems alluded to.

That is actually one of the underlying question here and something that Maud struggles with. Is she mere vassal or more than that? Is Scotland just a protectorate of England or a sovereign kingdom? As for Prince Arthur, I was wondering who would be the first to see possible trouble with his defense of Cupar. Wait and see.

Hmm, what does the crafty hobbit have in its pocketses? Tricksy hobbit! Arthur’s valiant demise? Or his surprising survival? For all we know, he could have died only shortly before the reflective scenes so many years later! I doubt that, but just riffing there. I like the suspense.

With Mary’s insurrection out in the open, at least she can be dealt with. I suspect she has chosen ... poorly. But may cause some pain as she lashes out in what will surely be her death throes (figurative, if not literal).

Then I am doing my work here well as I wanted that suspense and cliffhanger. Cousin Mary really threw a wrench into the planning here but it was especially painful for Maud and Scotland. See the next scene.

I kinda admire Mary's audacity, to be honest.

Even if it is profoundly foolish.

She definitely inherited a great deal from the Scottish House. Likely a little smarter than her father but as a woman, not able to do as much about it. Let's see how well she does.


To all - The next scene follows and one I've been waiting to post for a while now. You'll know why when you get to it. Thanks for reading and commenting!!

 

[coz1]

​

The Song of Wessex​

* * *

Lancaster, England - September 1325​

King Arthur sat in his son’s chair at the court of the Duchy of Lancaster and held a tepid smile to his face. He had expected Prince Arthur to be there after hearing of the troubles of his wife in Scotland but no word had come for some time. The summer had seen great triumph as the bewitched so-called King of the highlanders had come begging peace and gladly giving over Ulster to keep from further war but it was tempered by news that Queen Maud had found rebellion once more and this time, from her own family. Once a Scot, always a Scot was the thought that kept coming back to his mind but his own son was with her, as well as his grandchildren.

The last thing that he had heard from the Prince was in late June when it was asked that the King return the Scottish levies as the rebellion was at hand. Arthur was happy to do it but less so about the mention that the Prince himself would help lead the defense of Cupar for his wife and Queen. That three months had passed since then gave him no better feeling and not even his master of spies nor Chancellor could find word out of Scotland. Worse, Anselm remained to the highlands as his return home was complicated by this new northern war. Only Earl Edward saw to him at the now and while the King liked his Lord Chancellor, he was no great friend and confident.

Yet as worried as he was, the King still had business to tend and at least found some few others in attendance. He’d found Lord Lionel of York a pleasant enough companion as they fought together in Ireland and enjoyed the journey back to England alongside the Duke. And Arthur had made certain to invite the young man Sir Guy as well. As Earl Laurence had suggested, the knight held a certain needed leadership quality which the King aimed to reward. More importantly, Arthur had returned with one other important figure that he felt need to reward. If he could not have his elder Prince with him, he would at least have his younger one.

​

“My Lords...dear Ladies of this court...” the King announced as the crowd settled, “...at the first, I must say how pleased I am that you serve my son and Prince so well, even in his long absences. There is no need to use royal prerogative here for we are all family, are we not? For many years, the lands of Lancaster and Hereford have been close to this crown and I know that my good son serves you just as well as I did before I found my raising. And I hope that I still serve you well now.”

There was some laughter from the court as the King made jest and Arthur joined it before gesturing towards the knight Sir Guy, “Good sir...would you step forward and honor these people with your visage? I wish you all to see a brave warrior that served us all well in Ireland. Our claim was found and settled with victory but I am no greedy King, my Lords...nay. I have lands aplenty and I have always sworn to share the rewards with my people. To you, Sir Guy, I wish to grant the Barony of Dunlace in Ulster. My Lord Chancellor holds forth the letters patent and I wish you to know that we in England...in Ireland...in France and Wales...we all are honored for you to join us as Baron and Lord.”

The knight quickly took a knee and bowed deeply, “I am most humbled, Your Grace, for I think not to deserve so much of your great generosity.”

“Serve me well, my Lord Baron,” Arthur showed a sharper eye, “I had a good longtime friend who was naught but a knight and yet one of my finest companions. Had he not so cruelly lost his life in battle, it might have been he this day that gained such title.”

The now Baron Guy slowly stood and showed a kind smile, “I will honor the late Lord Marshal with this gift, Your Grace. As soon as I might, I would dedicate a chapel in his name in Dunlace and no man shall ever forget the worth of Sir Etienne de Pleshy.”

“You now show your wise mind as much as you have already done on the field of battle, sir,” the King gave nod in thanks.

The Lord Chancellor had retreated behind the chair and now reappeared with another set of letters and the King smiled, “And now I wish to call forth my son, the Prince Eadgar. Please stand before the court.”

Few in Lancaster had seen Prince Eadgar for some time...not since he was but a small child. They were shocked at how robust he had grown and yet the Prince held a melancholy to his eyes that was equally as shocking. Eadgar stepped forward and gave bow to his father and the King raised from the chair and moved to stand next to his son, “My lad...my good boy...my young Prince...you are brave and you are studious and you are honorable.”

“Thank you, father,” Eadgar answered with a slight voice that few could hear.

The King turned to the crowd as he placed an arm around Eadgar, “My son is not just Prince but so too an Earl to Ireland and proves the crown there. I speak to you all...when I made my claim to Ulster, there was but one man that came to me first with an offer to assist. I tell you...it broke my heart that I felt need to send him home to his fair Lady wife, but he was required to Briefne for her protection and theirs. Yet now the war is won and I may do now what I could not do then.”

Arthur gestured for the Lord Chancellor and Earl Edward joined them with the letters, “My son, as reward for your true heart and steadfast loyalty to myself and this realm, I now grant you the county of Ulster as Earl. I am working on perhaps a little more...mayhap a Duchy...but never forget that you are my son and Prince. You have proved yourself to Briefne just as I know you will do so to Ulster in short time.”

​

Prince Eadgar was slower to take a knee, but he bowed as well and gave thanks for the gift, “It is an honor, father. As always, I shall never fail you.”

“Then rise, good sir...” King Arthur started to say, “...and let us celebrate...”

Before he could finish his thought, the doors to the great hall in Lancaster burst open and all were shocked to see the face of the Scots Prince Duncan as he entered, “Your Grace King Arthur...I come with urgent news!”

There were more gasps but it was Prince Eadgar that nearly went ashen when he spied a familiar figure behind Duncan and rushed to him, “Arty?! Are you hurt?! What has happened?!!”

“I am well enough, Eddy,” Prince Arthur answered as he leaned on two soldiers and gestured with his head, “Yet they may not be.”

The King was found speechless at first but once he saw his eldest son and Maud, he moved swiftly, “My Lord Earl Edward...Lord Lionel...see to the Queen and her children. They look to be exhausted! And you, Arturo...”

“It’s merely a nick, father,” Prince Arthur tried to sound braver than he was.

The King noticed it straightaway, “That’s more than a nick, sir. I’ve seen my share. Eddy...see your brother to the solar and I’ll fetch the physician!”

Prince Eadgar did as commanded and was helped by Prince Duncan as the King turned to Maud, “What has happened, daughter?”

The Queen of Scotland stood before him in what seemed rags and her face was dirty from travel. She was indeed exhausted but pushed her few ladies away to stand tall before the English King, “My cousin Mary came to visit. It was not a pleasant party.”

“He lost...didn’t he?” King Arthur questioned with both disappointment and concern.

Maud tried to smile, “He was brave...father. And he lives.”

The Lord Chancellor was already moving away with the young Princes and the Princess but Maud turned to stop him, “You will see my children to a chamber made for me. I will not be without them while I am here. And we will not stay long!”

“Do as she says, sir...and you my Lord of York...see the physician to the solar for my son,” King Arthur commanded before turning back to Maud, “And you...daughter. I think we needs must talk.”

With weary steps, Maud finally accepted the offered arm and walked with King Arthur as they made their way out into the night. Much like Hereford, the old keep at Lancaster had been built up over time and now the castle held fine exterior walkways that looked out over gardens and ponds. A fine colonnade was covered that lead to a small gazebo and Arthur helped Maud sit to a bench, “I would find you refreshment, my Lady. And I will see to your husband and my son. Yet...you will tell me what happened.”

“Your court, Your Grace...” Maud showed a slim smile, “...they are missing of you.”

Arthur stood over her with a stern eye, “Hang the court, Maud! They’ve had their show and now you provide an encore. We are not father and daughter right now, dear girl. I am King and you are Queen and you will tell me what...”

“My cousin...” she finally let down her guard, “...as I said...”

“She wished her place and you did not provide it?” Arthur asked sharply.

Maud found a frown, “I gave her all she deserved and no more! That was not enough! She demands elective law and you of all people should know how that might go.”

“Why did you not write to me of this?” the King questioned.

“It’s my Kingdom...” she looked to him just as sharply, “...is that not what you have said? Shall I pass my every thought by your mind, Your Grace? It’s mine to handle and I did so.”

Arthur crossed his arms, “Not very well, it would seem. Judging by the condition of my son, you’ve had quite the time of it!”

“She’d already started to raise her force before we even met after her father died,” Maud looked to the ground with some dejection, “I was...perhaps too hasty in my judgment. Yet it mattered not once they descended upon Cupar. I did not wish to leave...yet your son, my husband...he demanded that I do so. And so I did. I took Ava and Arthur and Reginald...we fled to Lothian while my husband and my uncle tried to defend my throne. And yes...they lost. My Lord Marshal is gravely wounded and is like not to live and your son did indeed gain wound. But...he lives. Glory be to God...he lives!”

The King softened as he sat beside her and took a hand, “You’ve had quite the harrowing journey since, I imagine.”

“From place to place...” Maud answered and surprised herself when she held the hand tighter, “...they tried to follow. Every crag...every dell…any place to throw them from our scent. My cousin wishes my head and I will not give it to her!”

Arthur clasped her hand with his other, “And where is she now...your cousin Mary?”

“To Cupar, of course,” she raised her eyes to his, “Trying to take my castle in my absence.”

“You might have written to me,” King Arthur suggested with some sympathy.

Maud showed frustration, “With what ink? What quill? It’s all I could do to keep my children fed and your son alive as we made our way to here!”

“Arturo will be fine,” Arthur tried to console her, “And you are now safe.”

“Father...” she looked to him with sad eyes, “...it is a travesty. I am not made to be a woman of pity, and yet in my short time...I think to lose it all.”

The King heard her but looked away to the facade of the castle and smiled, “You’ve been to this place before, haven’t you? A fine structure but it comes with it a legend. A most sad story and a very tragic Lady that lived to here. It is said that she haunts it still. Star crossed lovers and all that...they could not be.”

“I’m in no mood for stories,” Maud slumped her shoulders.

“You may be for this one,” the King suggested, “It holds merit for your circumstance.”

Maud turned to him with a sure eye, “I don’t care about lovers right now! I don’t care for those stories that come from southern France! I care about my throne!”

“She was named Ada...” Arthur ignored her protestations, “...and she was very pretty, it was said. Yet of broken heart early as her mother died. She held chance when she met a Duke...but he was already married. She grew bitter and angry. And eventually she lost her own life because of it.”

“I believe that I’ve heard this story,” Maud skewed a brow, “And I believe the Lady lost her life to your ancestors.”

Arthur gave nod as he looked once more to the castle, “So it is said. And yet? Within generations, here we are. My heirs married her heirs and all is forgiven.”

“What has that to do with mine own plight, I ask?” she questioned with frustration.

“That good may still come from bad, daughter,” Arthur held her hand once more and offered her a caring eye, “That all happy families are never what they seem...and all enemies may someday become friends.”

“My throne is at stake...” Maud gave him a questioning gaze, “...and you wish to give me lessons on being Queen?”

Arthur briefly sighed, “No, dear girl...I want you to ask for help. I want you to wish peace between us.”

“I’m not sure who is worse?!” Maud pulled her hand away and stood suddenly, “You or your wife?! Few paces away, your son lays likely to a cot with a wound and your care is here with me to...what? Finally gain my trust? Ensure that I will be yours forevermore? That I am no more than vassal to you? I find your mind...twisted...Your Grace!”

“And I find that your gratitude is wanting...” Arthur remained calm as he looked to her, “...but that does not mean that I am unwilling to help. Yet you must ask for it.”

“Very well!” Maud threw out hers arms in anger, “Please...oh, dear father...please come to my rescue and save me from this scourge!”

​

King Arthur slowly found a smile as he answered with question, “Was that so hard?”

“You are infuriating!” Maud turned away and held to her hips.

The King stood and shifted to speak over her shoulder, “It just so happens that I have been wanting to help you, my Lady...Your Grace. I needed to know that my son was still alive, but I have already made plans. My Lord Anselm remains to the north and should be to Dunfermline within the week. His force remains strong and should sweep away this cousin of yours with no issue.”

Maud turned to him with hands still to her hips, “You put me to this just to get my confession?! You show a solemn father when your first thought was your real one! You are King and I am Queen and you still play at your battles!”

“Maudy...” Arthur answered with condescension, “...I do not play at battle. Unlike you...I win. I’ve been doing so for over half of my life and plan on doing so for many years to come. You may learn from it, or you may fight it. But I will always win.”

She was silent for a time before answering, “I thought you were the devil. I was wrong. You, sir...are worse.”

“And will see your Kingdom safely returned to you,” King Arthur replied with sureness.

Maud began to say something else but stopped. Instead, she turned away, “I must be to my husband. I would say thank you, but you knew it already. I’ve no desire to see you gloat.”

“Your Grace...” Arthur called after her, “...I do not gloat. Yet see to my son and make certain that he is safe. That is your charge. Mine? My Lord Anselm will see to that!”

​