Chapter 7.11.5 - May 1015 York
May 1015 York
Crístina took the message from her lady in waiting and thanked her. The lady curtsied and left leaving the queen sitting in the chair in the queen’s chambers. Across from her sat Eadhild, the Queen Mother. Eadhild looked at Crístina expectantly.
Seeing Eadhild’s reaction Crístina said, “It is not what we were waiting for. I do believe it is too early for that.”
Disappointed Eadhild said, “Well what does it say?”
Crístina smiled at Eadhild impatience. The queen opened the message and said, “It is from Duke Emrys. He tells of how raiders from Kola lead by a Chief Grimr landed in Dyfed. Mayor Drystan of Caersws lead an army from Deheubarth and defeated this Grimr at St Davids on March 29th. Apparently Grimr was struck in the head by a mace and had to be carried from the battlefield and his raiders fled from Dyfed.”
After a few moments of silence Eadhild said, “I hear that my son has found a cat.”
Crístina laughed, “At first I could not believe it. But I must admit that the thing is cute and in a short time has had a positive effect on Rædwald.”
Still in disbelief Eadhild asked, “How is that?”
Crístina who was becoming a believer replied, “He is calmer and not as angry as he has been. The cat takes up his time, and he forgets his troubles for a time. Some people say a cat is lucky.”
Eadhild nodded and said, “Then that is good, and I hope it is truly lucky.”
Crístina reached onto the table next to her and poured herself a cup of wine. She offered some to Eadhild wo refused. Crístina asked, “Have you heard from Hlothere?”
Eadhild nodded, “Yes a message reached me a few days ago. His baby daughter Agatha is now considered healthy and there are no lingering effects of her poor health as a newborn.”
Eadhild became all smiles, “Hlothere and Tiburge have had another son.”
Crístina was surprised as she had not heard about Tiburge being pregnant. Communications being the way they were, everyone locked away in their keeps it was expected. She asked, “What did they name the baby?”
Eadhild the proud grandmother replied, “It is a boy and they named him Hlothere.”
Crístina nodded, “That is good, named for his father.”
Crístina had heard distressing news about Prince Hlothere but unable to confirm it, so she thought this was a good time to ask his mother, “I have heard that the senior Hlothere has become inflicted with a sickness. Is that true?”
Eadhild paused and then shook her head, “I am afraid so Hlothere has the Lover’s Pox. It seems that he was bedding a couple of the maid servants.”
Crístina seemed surprised, “Maidservants?”
Eadhild replied casually, “There is no surprise there. King Eilif did the same. He would say through the maid’s pillow talk he learned a great deal about the happenings in the keep that his counselors did not tell him.”
Crístina shook her head, “Shameful.”
Eadhild laughed, “Do not be surprised if someday your husband does not indulge himself. It is in his blood.”
Crístina looked at the wine in her cup and suddenly became withdrawn and silent. Eadhild looked at her with concern and asked, “Has something already happened?”
Knowing his father’s and mother’s histories when it came to lovers, Rædwald having an affair was something she greatly feared. Thus far he had not shown any tendencies to follow in his father’s footsteps until recently.
Still looking down at her cup Crístina replied, “Wulfwaru said that she caught Rædwald with the cook. He denied anything occurred. He blamed Wulfwaru saying she was creating stories to get even with him for punishing her for some offense she did.”
Eadhild reached over and held Crístina’s hands and asked, “Do you believe him?”
Crístina tried to smile but doubt now ate at her, “Given it was Wulfwaru telling the tale and knowing she and Rædwald have not been on good terms I am inclined to believe him.”
Eadhild released Crístina’s hands and sat back, “Then that settles the matter.”
Not entirely convinced Crístina took a deep breath and then looked at Eadhild, “Have any news reached you Swæfræd?”
Now it was Eadhild who became withdrawn and concern filled here face. “He has closed the gates of his keep. I am concerned with the persistent rumors saying his keep was not properly provisioned before the gates were shut. If the illness lasts for a long time his court and he will run out of food.”
Eadhild had touched on something that worried Crístina constantly, “I pray that we have enough food to outlast the sickness.”
Eadhild nodded, “I do also.”
Crístina took a couple sips of wine and said, “We have heard that Countess Mildrith of Gloucester is suffering from fatigue. There is concern that she may succumb to camp fever like her father, Prince Sigfrið.”
Eadhild sighed, “Let us pray that does not happen. I heard the war for Wiltshire, her father began, goes poorly for her.”
Grimly Crístina said, “Yes it does. King Diogo III of Galicia is aiding King Ælfgar and with the Galician troops involved they are overwhelming the Gloucesterian forces.”
Eadhild shook her head, “Such a pity.”
Crístina smiled, “Some good tidings from France, Princess Bodil has fully recovered from her bout of camp fever.”
Eadhild smiled, “That is indeed good news.”
Crístina turned somber and asked, “How does your granddaughter Ecgfrida fare?”
Eadhild closed her eyes like she was in pain and then opened them, “It is very difficult to see someone so young suffer from consumption. Hope her youth will provide her the strength to defeat the illness.”
Crístina looked down at her lap and asked, “Does Swæfræd know of his daughter’s fate?”
Eadhild shrugged her shoulders, “I know not. A message was sent but no reply has been received.”
Crístina took another deep breath and finished her cup of wine, “In truth I do not concern myself overly with Swæfræd. His affairs are nothing but an almost comical distraction. The brother I worry about is Hjalmar.”
Eadhild only knew a few details of the deteriorating relationship between her sons and the son of Ingrid of Chester, “Why does he trouble you so?”
Crístina refilled her cup and drank half of it in one gulp, “Hjalmar has declared a faction to make himself king. On most days I would laugh alongside my husband about such action. Now with us locked up here…” the arm and hand not holding the cup swept about her and the room “… Hjalmar chastises us for abandoning the people. He states that he has not secluded himself away. Now Rædwald’s cousin and a man Rædwald appointed an earl and commander of his armies, Sumarliði supports Hjalmar’s faction.”
Eadhild folded her hands in her lap and said in a matter of fact voice, “Something needs to be done about both of them.”
Surprised by Eadhild’s tone Crístina looked at the woman and remembered the rumors of her involvement with the untimely death of Þegen Hereberht of Warwick who had threatened the lives of Rædwald and Hlothere. Crístina made a mental note to not get on Eadhild’s bad side and discuss the rumors with her husband someday.
Just at that moment a knock came on the door. A lady in waiting answered and then walked to the queen. She curtsied, and said, “Milady the Court Physician is here.”
The faces on both ladies lit up and both almost leapt out of their seats.
Recovering quickly and business like Crístina replied, “Show him in.”
The lady in waiting bowed and left. A moment later Beorhthelm stood before them. He bowed in a very humbling manner spoke, “My ladies.”
Anxious but trying not to show it Crístina responded, “Yes Lord Physician.”
Beorhthelm smiled, “The king has come through the treatment and is in good health. You may see him if you wish.”
Both women smiled and Crístina replied, “Where is he?”
Beorhthelm continued smiling and answered, “Here of course.”
Beorhthelm stepped aside and Rædwald stepped between him and the queen and his mother. Crístina looked at her husband and was amazed by how well the king looked. She thought he had a glow about him.
Seeing he was no longer needed Beorhthelm said, “By your leave.”
Crístina nodded and Beorhthelm bowed and left the chamber. Once the physician was gone Crístina now leapt out of the chair and hugged Rædwald.
Crístina let him go and he walked to his mother. He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. Eadhild asked, “How do you feel?”
Rædwald stood straight and with a big smile he replied, “Like a changed man.”
Crístina still concerned for his health lead him to a chair and he sat down. The queen returned to her chair. “Wine?” she asked lifting the pitcher.
He smiled at her and responded, “Yes please.”
Crístina poured the wine and handed him the cup.
“Thank you my darling,” he said as he took the cup.
Crístina looked at Eadhild who was sitting wide eyed. Rædwald was being unusually polite.
Full of curiosity Crístina asked, “Can you tell us what happened?”
The king took several sips and then rested the cup in his lap with both his hands. His face had a bewildered look for a moment and then it became the face of someone very content.
He began, “I was brought into my bed chambers and made to lay on the bed. A pot was placed in my hand. And do know what was in the pot?”
Crístina was so anxious she blurted out, “No what?”
Rædwald smiled and replied, “A poor terrified rat. The thing was running around in the pot trying to escape and squeaking. I was told to hold the pot on my chest. Beorhthelm said the rat would carry my burdens in my stead.”
Crístina and Eadhild looked at one another thinking the whole thing was crazy.
The king did not notice them and continued, “Some of his assistants closed the curtains making the room dark. Others lit candles. Then everyone started chanting. I do not know for how long. I don’t know if I fell asleep or in a trance. As I laid there I could feel my burdens being lifted. When I woke or became aware once again I never felt better.”
He suddenly coughed. Crístina was ready to jump out of the chair and Eadhild was full of fear. Rædwald raised his hand. “Look it is over.” And the cough was.
He smiled trying to reassure them. “Beorhthelm said that due to the damage previously done to my body I may always have a cough, but over time it will get less and less.”
Eadhild was not convinced and said, “I hope so.” Crístina’s face showed her doubts.
Rædwald finished his wine and an odd look came over his face, “Hlothere and Ealdmund have been asking me to release Leofweald and Hrolfr for some time. Now may be the time I took them up on their offers.”
Crístina almost shook her head. She had never thought Rædwald would ever forgive those two. After Maria and Anlaufr he held them most responsible for the failed revolt many years ago.
Confused she looked at Rædwald and said, “I thought you said you would never let them see the light of day again.”
Rædwald smiled and reached over and placed his hands on Crístina’s hands resting in her lap, “Those were words spoken in the passion of the moment and a very long time ago. If our Lord could forgive his executioners, then should I not forgive them?”
Crístina and Eadhild were stunned into silence. They were both wondering what had come over the king and if it was a good thing.
Rædwald stood and straightened his clothing. He held his hand out to help Crístina stand. Once the confused queen was standing he turned and helped his mother to stand. Both women were concerned.
He then said, “I am hungry. Let’s see what the cook has prepared for dinner.”
With that he lead them from the chamber.
Crístina took the message from her lady in waiting and thanked her. The lady curtsied and left leaving the queen sitting in the chair in the queen’s chambers. Across from her sat Eadhild, the Queen Mother. Eadhild looked at Crístina expectantly.
Seeing Eadhild’s reaction Crístina said, “It is not what we were waiting for. I do believe it is too early for that.”
Disappointed Eadhild said, “Well what does it say?”
Crístina smiled at Eadhild impatience. The queen opened the message and said, “It is from Duke Emrys. He tells of how raiders from Kola lead by a Chief Grimr landed in Dyfed. Mayor Drystan of Caersws lead an army from Deheubarth and defeated this Grimr at St Davids on March 29th. Apparently Grimr was struck in the head by a mace and had to be carried from the battlefield and his raiders fled from Dyfed.”
After a few moments of silence Eadhild said, “I hear that my son has found a cat.”
Crístina laughed, “At first I could not believe it. But I must admit that the thing is cute and in a short time has had a positive effect on Rædwald.”
Still in disbelief Eadhild asked, “How is that?”
Crístina who was becoming a believer replied, “He is calmer and not as angry as he has been. The cat takes up his time, and he forgets his troubles for a time. Some people say a cat is lucky.”
Eadhild nodded and said, “Then that is good, and I hope it is truly lucky.”
Crístina reached onto the table next to her and poured herself a cup of wine. She offered some to Eadhild wo refused. Crístina asked, “Have you heard from Hlothere?”
Eadhild nodded, “Yes a message reached me a few days ago. His baby daughter Agatha is now considered healthy and there are no lingering effects of her poor health as a newborn.”
Eadhild became all smiles, “Hlothere and Tiburge have had another son.”
Crístina was surprised as she had not heard about Tiburge being pregnant. Communications being the way they were, everyone locked away in their keeps it was expected. She asked, “What did they name the baby?”
Eadhild the proud grandmother replied, “It is a boy and they named him Hlothere.”
Crístina nodded, “That is good, named for his father.”
Crístina had heard distressing news about Prince Hlothere but unable to confirm it, so she thought this was a good time to ask his mother, “I have heard that the senior Hlothere has become inflicted with a sickness. Is that true?”
Eadhild paused and then shook her head, “I am afraid so Hlothere has the Lover’s Pox. It seems that he was bedding a couple of the maid servants.”
Crístina seemed surprised, “Maidservants?”
Eadhild replied casually, “There is no surprise there. King Eilif did the same. He would say through the maid’s pillow talk he learned a great deal about the happenings in the keep that his counselors did not tell him.”
Crístina shook her head, “Shameful.”
Eadhild laughed, “Do not be surprised if someday your husband does not indulge himself. It is in his blood.”
Crístina looked at the wine in her cup and suddenly became withdrawn and silent. Eadhild looked at her with concern and asked, “Has something already happened?”
Knowing his father’s and mother’s histories when it came to lovers, Rædwald having an affair was something she greatly feared. Thus far he had not shown any tendencies to follow in his father’s footsteps until recently.
Still looking down at her cup Crístina replied, “Wulfwaru said that she caught Rædwald with the cook. He denied anything occurred. He blamed Wulfwaru saying she was creating stories to get even with him for punishing her for some offense she did.”
Eadhild reached over and held Crístina’s hands and asked, “Do you believe him?”
Crístina tried to smile but doubt now ate at her, “Given it was Wulfwaru telling the tale and knowing she and Rædwald have not been on good terms I am inclined to believe him.”
Eadhild released Crístina’s hands and sat back, “Then that settles the matter.”
Not entirely convinced Crístina took a deep breath and then looked at Eadhild, “Have any news reached you Swæfræd?”
Now it was Eadhild who became withdrawn and concern filled here face. “He has closed the gates of his keep. I am concerned with the persistent rumors saying his keep was not properly provisioned before the gates were shut. If the illness lasts for a long time his court and he will run out of food.”
Eadhild had touched on something that worried Crístina constantly, “I pray that we have enough food to outlast the sickness.”
Eadhild nodded, “I do also.”
Crístina took a couple sips of wine and said, “We have heard that Countess Mildrith of Gloucester is suffering from fatigue. There is concern that she may succumb to camp fever like her father, Prince Sigfrið.”
Eadhild sighed, “Let us pray that does not happen. I heard the war for Wiltshire, her father began, goes poorly for her.”
Grimly Crístina said, “Yes it does. King Diogo III of Galicia is aiding King Ælfgar and with the Galician troops involved they are overwhelming the Gloucesterian forces.”
Eadhild shook her head, “Such a pity.”
Crístina smiled, “Some good tidings from France, Princess Bodil has fully recovered from her bout of camp fever.”
Eadhild smiled, “That is indeed good news.”
Crístina turned somber and asked, “How does your granddaughter Ecgfrida fare?”
Eadhild closed her eyes like she was in pain and then opened them, “It is very difficult to see someone so young suffer from consumption. Hope her youth will provide her the strength to defeat the illness.”
Crístina looked down at her lap and asked, “Does Swæfræd know of his daughter’s fate?”
Eadhild shrugged her shoulders, “I know not. A message was sent but no reply has been received.”
Crístina took another deep breath and finished her cup of wine, “In truth I do not concern myself overly with Swæfræd. His affairs are nothing but an almost comical distraction. The brother I worry about is Hjalmar.”
Eadhild only knew a few details of the deteriorating relationship between her sons and the son of Ingrid of Chester, “Why does he trouble you so?”
Crístina refilled her cup and drank half of it in one gulp, “Hjalmar has declared a faction to make himself king. On most days I would laugh alongside my husband about such action. Now with us locked up here…” the arm and hand not holding the cup swept about her and the room “… Hjalmar chastises us for abandoning the people. He states that he has not secluded himself away. Now Rædwald’s cousin and a man Rædwald appointed an earl and commander of his armies, Sumarliði supports Hjalmar’s faction.”
Eadhild folded her hands in her lap and said in a matter of fact voice, “Something needs to be done about both of them.”
Surprised by Eadhild’s tone Crístina looked at the woman and remembered the rumors of her involvement with the untimely death of Þegen Hereberht of Warwick who had threatened the lives of Rædwald and Hlothere. Crístina made a mental note to not get on Eadhild’s bad side and discuss the rumors with her husband someday.
Just at that moment a knock came on the door. A lady in waiting answered and then walked to the queen. She curtsied, and said, “Milady the Court Physician is here.”
The faces on both ladies lit up and both almost leapt out of their seats.
Recovering quickly and business like Crístina replied, “Show him in.”
The lady in waiting bowed and left. A moment later Beorhthelm stood before them. He bowed in a very humbling manner spoke, “My ladies.”
Anxious but trying not to show it Crístina responded, “Yes Lord Physician.”
Beorhthelm smiled, “The king has come through the treatment and is in good health. You may see him if you wish.”
Both women smiled and Crístina replied, “Where is he?”
Beorhthelm continued smiling and answered, “Here of course.”
Beorhthelm stepped aside and Rædwald stepped between him and the queen and his mother. Crístina looked at her husband and was amazed by how well the king looked. She thought he had a glow about him.
Seeing he was no longer needed Beorhthelm said, “By your leave.”
Crístina nodded and Beorhthelm bowed and left the chamber. Once the physician was gone Crístina now leapt out of the chair and hugged Rædwald.
Crístina let him go and he walked to his mother. He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. Eadhild asked, “How do you feel?”
Rædwald stood straight and with a big smile he replied, “Like a changed man.”
Crístina still concerned for his health lead him to a chair and he sat down. The queen returned to her chair. “Wine?” she asked lifting the pitcher.
He smiled at her and responded, “Yes please.”
Crístina poured the wine and handed him the cup.
“Thank you my darling,” he said as he took the cup.
Crístina looked at Eadhild who was sitting wide eyed. Rædwald was being unusually polite.
Full of curiosity Crístina asked, “Can you tell us what happened?”
The king took several sips and then rested the cup in his lap with both his hands. His face had a bewildered look for a moment and then it became the face of someone very content.
He began, “I was brought into my bed chambers and made to lay on the bed. A pot was placed in my hand. And do know what was in the pot?”
Crístina was so anxious she blurted out, “No what?”
Rædwald smiled and replied, “A poor terrified rat. The thing was running around in the pot trying to escape and squeaking. I was told to hold the pot on my chest. Beorhthelm said the rat would carry my burdens in my stead.”
Crístina and Eadhild looked at one another thinking the whole thing was crazy.
The king did not notice them and continued, “Some of his assistants closed the curtains making the room dark. Others lit candles. Then everyone started chanting. I do not know for how long. I don’t know if I fell asleep or in a trance. As I laid there I could feel my burdens being lifted. When I woke or became aware once again I never felt better.”
He suddenly coughed. Crístina was ready to jump out of the chair and Eadhild was full of fear. Rædwald raised his hand. “Look it is over.” And the cough was.
He smiled trying to reassure them. “Beorhthelm said that due to the damage previously done to my body I may always have a cough, but over time it will get less and less.”
Eadhild was not convinced and said, “I hope so.” Crístina’s face showed her doubts.
Rædwald finished his wine and an odd look came over his face, “Hlothere and Ealdmund have been asking me to release Leofweald and Hrolfr for some time. Now may be the time I took them up on their offers.”
Crístina almost shook her head. She had never thought Rædwald would ever forgive those two. After Maria and Anlaufr he held them most responsible for the failed revolt many years ago.
Confused she looked at Rædwald and said, “I thought you said you would never let them see the light of day again.”
Rædwald smiled and reached over and placed his hands on Crístina’s hands resting in her lap, “Those were words spoken in the passion of the moment and a very long time ago. If our Lord could forgive his executioners, then should I not forgive them?”
Crístina and Eadhild were stunned into silence. They were both wondering what had come over the king and if it was a good thing.
Rædwald stood and straightened his clothing. He held his hand out to help Crístina stand. Once the confused queen was standing he turned and helped his mother to stand. Both women were concerned.
He then said, “I am hungry. Let’s see what the cook has prepared for dinner.”
With that he lead them from the chamber.
Last edited:
- 1
