Post by Queen Beathag Aberdeen on Feb 28, 2010 16:42:30 GMT -6
They would undo us all; there are those whom we do not know, and those whom we do to which we have not listened. Do not think so little of us that we think little of you. We are all in this together.
Adam and Kamenwati:: Adam left Ebony Hall and rode his white horse around town, with no particular destination determined. All the while, he would see people coming and going, living their lives in peace and tranquility. This mixed with decisions as to what may soon turn into a full-blown war... especially one of the seas. He tugged the reins of the battle-horse and wheeled it into the stables of the castle. Dismounting, his long slow strides carried him into the corridors... As he walked along, he was shadowed by one hidden in the darkness... as he passed an intersection of the castle, the shadowed one stepped out and stopped the Mo'r Triath... Bowing down to one knee, Kamenwati, the Moroccan warlord, now hunted as a traitor, presumed dead, knelt before the Griffin of Scotland. "MiLord, forgive this humble one and pray yu smite me not." His hands were extended with palms upward, head bowed deep almost to the knee. Adam stopped abruptly and reached for his sword at the hip. Only when the man bowed submissively did he see he was no danger. "How did yu get in here?" : Kam did not look up... "MiLord, I shall explain all, but I must warn yu of yer request for trade with the Amir of Fez... May I speak freely MiLord?" "Rise, walk with me... and speak freely..." Adam bade the man freedom to rise and speak... Kam rose and took a position slightly to the side and rear of the Mo'r Triath... "MiLord... I have just returned from the lands of the Amir... and all is not well there..." And as the two men walked thru the halls, the man of the Desert spoke softly, and the words he uttered soon gave Adam a look of concern... followed by a few curses... Pausing in the corridor, Adam grasps a servant by the arm. "Summon th' Mo'r Okesula and the Lady Claramae tae the Great Hall... Ah shall bae there... oh and the Lady of the Letters tae..." then he released the young man and headed for the Great Hall with his unexpected visitor... e too Adam stood and waited and bade the dark skinned man to rise and follow him... standing upon the raised platform, Adam sat in the raised chair...:::::
Claramae and Beathag: "That is the way of it, your majesty. Upon the tide of this day I will be gone. They think me so already for benefit's sake. England shall not wait, and it is important to establish the reign of your husband as secure, let alone it is the gate way to Europe." The Mo'r Oukselo arched one brow at the herald 'your majesty' but it had always come out of the woman's mouth. Why should it be different now when the coronoation eve was to be planned, when a crown commisioned? Reality was different than assumption. Soon the Mo'r Oukselo would be in conjecture with Queen; to rule a land once so dispised she spit at the mention of it's name. To claim what was never to be claimed. How strange was it they all came to the dawn of another day that would define more than one life? Beathag was attired in her regal plain, for it was the Sabbath, the one Christian institution she utlized to her benefit. "Then gae ye must, Ah know ye've told Ahdam o' it but did he e'en realize ye are still here? At least ye may.." Tell him in person? Living persuasion was better than writ. The servant had come with expedition to convey the message of the two summons, surprised that he would have both at one pass. With a furrowed brow, the tone conveyed business which thus broke the Sunday institution. Ah well. It was not as if she pious. Leading the way to the room, the Lady of many heralds followed at a respective side pace. Claramae let out a sigh within the mind only;
Janice:The order had also called for the Lady of Letters whom for all the truth the words held was only a knight's wife, married to a knight whom both had minds wrapped around more of the situation than any believed. "This archive here Marius, is on lost clans. Is this truly how you would spend your Sabbath?" Pent in a library with beauty both could see, but what use was it when the mind was so addled? Escape. To the place that held as much an axe over their heads as Europe did. Lovely. It made precious little sense but she loved it here. What surprise was this that people combing through book rows were asking "Where is the Lady Viscreed..no no, the Lady de'Brabant, she is married aye. Have you looked with her husband, or in Church?" "Who would look for me on a Sunday?" Peering her head around the shelving, the servant instructed that the Mo'r Triath, the King, was calling. (d)
Adam and Kamenwati: Adam and Kam were discussing what was transpiring in Fez... the Amir had, for years been demoralizing his people to the extent of death and torture... The Amir had closed doors to outisders, with one tendecy... the French privateers... both set on securing the Pillars of Hercules... Adam leaned to the side, his elbow upon the chairs arm... "Then what is yae seek o'me, sir...?" Kam bowed his head... "I was born Egyptian... of a Moroccan Father... I come to see Lord General... but he is elsewhere...time is urgent MiLord... my ... wife... Briseis is enslved......" Adam looked at Kam and started to speak but was interrupted by the opening of the doors of the Great Hall...:::::
Marius: Marius with Janice on his arm marched into the Great Hall, his back straight and proud. He had done more then his duty to Skye already. Today would decide much; it was all up to the High Lord, or Duke, or King. Marius is a proud man, and normally he plays the game of court. Today, he was not sure just how he would react. It was all with the High Lord for good or ill today. Of one thing he was sure; he would not be dishonored or belittled this day. : Marius had had too many years of that behind it. (d)
Janice: Austrian paces were intense portions to keep up with when one's husband walked two full strides longer to her every one. Yestereve they'd gone to crosses again over the issue of what their place was in the kingdom, if such a place anywhere even mattered anymore. Proud the Austrian was. His wife had once called him arrogant, blind, and terrible in a heated argument where her body would be laid prostrate for the benefit of division between those she'd 'served' . She understood his weariness, even if she did not share his despair. The land had only given her sanctity, safety, and a chance to flourish but at what price was it paid? No one knew she had nearly given limb, life, and innocence. "Mo'r Triath." said the scholar, lowering herself before the royal, remaining as the Mo'r Oukselo entered with....Lady Laurence? Confusion painted features that remained lowered out of respect, but a letter announcing leaving put a bitterness inside her that might have rivaled even her husbands.
Beathag: "Husband n' King, good day..Sir deBrabant, Lady deBrabant." The other great hall chair was where she sat beside him, awaiting what would be said or decided. Claramae would stand not far from Janice. (d)
Adam: Adam looks at the knight with the lady, then looks to Kam... "yaer wife sir? My reports says yu killed her, burned the cottage down with her in it..." he rubbed his chin... "but we found nae body..."
Kamenwati: Kam interrupted... "MiLord, I did not kill her... we were attacked..." he raised his shirt and showed the scar...then a guard tapped his shoulder and made him wait to be allowed to speak... "My apologies MiLord..."
Adam: Adam shook his head and motioned the guard away... looking back to the knight and the translator... A smile crossed his face as Bess, his beloved wife... and Claramae... his beloved Governor entered the Great Hall... "Good day tae yae all..." as he watched Bess take her place, and the others paid respect... "This is Kamenwati... a leader of Morocco... banned as a traitor because he fell in love with the beauty of Skye... and a lass..." then he began to fill in the missing information about Briseis, the midwife, was not murdered by Kam, but enslaved by the Amir... and how Kam was almost murdered as well... "Sae yae see... Ah 'ave been betrayed by the Muslim King... and Lady Janice, I pray yu are well... and Ah apologize for wot yae been thru..." He pauses... "Ah bae much concerned... Fez is threatening the closure of the Strait... as well as Espania..." once again a pause... "AH want free trade for Skye and the NAtions... Ah wan tae be afore France n Spain in lead of trade... Ah know wot Ah want... how must Ah proceed?" He looks to Kam, then the others, one by one...:::::
Marius: Marius noted most carefully that he had not even been greeted by the High Lord said nothing. In fact it took the most determined effort on his part not to yawn. (d)
Janice:: Fye. Fye! Reign was granted by will of God as well as will of good men. Janice could have cringed at the absence of acknowledging unto the man whom stood more a stranger among them than Kamenwati. In truth she did her best not to to be hesitant of him for many men served the Mo'r Triath that were bronzed in color. Yet what if this one whispered poison in ears with a woman for his cloak of hiding? The thought, never put aloud, remained internal. The same could easily be said of her Marius, what if he came on behalf of the Holy Roman Empire? The story played out that made her eyes burn, her head ache. Her hands held fast to skirts as she lowered once more before rising. "No my lord I am not well." The question was answered truthful; she had been dreaming but the dreams were only the distance between truth and lie. Beathag's brow clenched in worry as she sought the issue. "What is yer whole trouble?" Janice wondered what lines were to be crossed; would her husband look a fool if his wife spoke or would she for ignoring royal issue? She glared at Claramae one moment before speaking. Damn it. Damn each and every one of them, all of them even Marius were pinning her. "I live in fear for the life of my husband and myself from no war upon your soil fought in dignity, but one in shadows too long allowed to go forward.My shop is rebuilt yet business is perilous to under-take. The burning is as much a mark as any brand that lasts. My husband seeks to make name for himself yet it will be very hard if an arrow detracts from his patrol or lessons with the calvary. He worries much, angers more. I tell him it is not Austria and all are given accord for their service, but he has nearly died more times since his short time here..than I can count. I am used to intrigues. It is in my lineage My Lady and Lord. But he has information and as have I..that is made to go slowly, too slowly. At this rate , both of us will die before you even hear the full extent of either of our tales. Pardon my hardness, pray it not offend you. But no, I am not fine." She rose to find that Claramae wore as much of an expression that allowed for her surprise as control would give.
Beathag:"Ah've heard your plight told tae me by the Lady Laurence, as the full collection o' things.Are ye still nay made any more safe nor content? Twas m'belief all such information was shared twixt yerselves in the Grandmaster. Tae be given then untae the Lord. Wot has gone amiss? Come, Lady tell meh, why are they sae hardened?"
Claramae: Claramae stepped forward to meet the glaring eyes of one and the bored of another. "Sir deBrabant believes the Order in error for what places were infiltrated upon the Island, for what business conducted thus far. It is not merely the personal interest of his wife he has, but his own, of Skye as well. His wife keeps some skill for your husband's use, though as you know it is my belief that things were handled poorly upon all levels. He has information to which as I have said, your majesties, it is better her gives you for it is his full detail to give." She took no credit for his discoveries, nor wanted them. Was he angered then at what was done to him prior, or electing a nation findingits feet? "My personal ideals of the man are that he is skilled for surviving what he has, given he was in sights of Castillian assasins. Quick, industrious, useful, clever, strong. If not brash. Impatient. But given the conditions to which his wife doth speak, who would not be? So then, Sir. Will you take your chance and accord? Your information along with mine, will be essential. I am going to England on this day's very tide to combat it there." She studied him, a mannerism which made Janice wish to slap her so hard it would resonate. While she gave Marius his due, why had she lied and said she left yesterday?
Beathag: "Husband, is there somewot ye have missed nay hearin' the tale full as by those who have lived it? If there is more, and with wot yer man here says..the situation is..dire." (d)
Marius:"Oh indeed much has been missed, but that is what happens when lies are told. It is not my opinion, but rather fact that the Order has failed most grievously. And of course they cannot even see what is in front of their faces and upon their own doorstep. A master spy has set up headquarters right here in the capital and has managed to penetrate the castle itself. This information came from my initial investigation of the ransacking of the book store. Two men had come ashore. One fled that very night, after having murdered the two locals he had hired while they were in our custody. And then I traced his companion to the castle where he attempted to gain entry as a servant, but the lady who is head of household did not accept him, but she remembered him well. Something did not suit her about him; she has a good sense of such without question. Then I found that the servants usually go to the Blue Boar Tavern.A few discreet question and I found a man answering to his description, sometimes calling himself James of Lincoln, had been befriending them at this place using some free ale and such. The castle is well and truly penetrated; he obtains much information and is not suspected, nor even seen in the vicinity. I might add that tracing him is most difficult, he changes is lodging frequently, almost every day. I reported this some time ago to the Lady St. Laurence, and yet I believe he is still at large and transmitting information to his employers overseas. I was also bothered by the assassins who first attempted the life of Lady Janice. After receiving permission I went on patrolbut not the usual locations. I went out to the fishing villages on the coast, who seem never to be visited. I was not surprised to hear that through the fishing fleets enemy agents come and go on a regular schedule. The two assassins in question came this way. In fact they were met by a party with horses for them. And the man who has penetrated the castle was one of them. In the background were more, but one of them at least was a woman, whose description fits that of the one who made the second attempt on Lady Janice's life. In this case my life was also to be ended. Fortunately I survived and foiled both attempts. While on patrol, I scattered gold to the villages and informed them that you would be most understanding. No punishment for prior acts, but we must know if any more come to our shores. The fisherman also informed me that smugglers using a few regular coves, also bring in such folks, also upon a regualr basis." At this point Marius takes a very long breath before he continues. "Yes, there is more. Your diplomatic activities with Morocco have engaged the interest of the Papcy. The Order had no idea of this until I brougtht them a message, another offer of emplyment for myself and the Lady Janice, and hers bore the Papal seal, which Lady St.Laurence did authenticate after a most rigorous examination. I have done service at personal risk without any to assist me for none would. When I gave this information to Ebony Hall, I was patted on the head and told to go home. I am at present taking the necessary steps to secure our coasts and perhaps even to allay Papal fears. I have not done this from orders. There were none to give them; so I took it upon myself to take these measures to serve Skye as I promised. Yet here I am treated like I do not exist and have done nothing. I am still not trusted. None in the military or in other areas will allow me to prove myself, yet I believe I have given proof enough. " He has spoken long and he has said his pieace. Now that High Lord can do what he will or not, and Marius truly expects it will be the not. (d)
Adam: Kamenwati stood to the side, his head bent well down... His countrymen would call them infidels... especially the King n Queen... for they took no religion... but he stood silent, the beliefs of his countrymen meant nothing to him... for Briseis calls Skye hiome... and his was with her... for now, he yearned for her safety...and freedom... Adam looked at Lady Janice and Claramae... glancing only to Bess, "Aye tis dire... and mistakes at the highest levels were made... but past is past and wot we do determines our future... and that is the decision that may right all..." then the knight spoke and Adam focused his attention on him... Then he looked at the knight... "Sir Marius... I had heard good about yer skills... but yet have I seen decisions that would make or break this country... at least none that are unsalvageable..." Adam's Gaelic overtones now disappeared and the clear English came forth... Sea-green eyes looked deep into this man... Hard he was, skilled as well... but he was a nut to crack, if his wife bethrashed him as well... goodFingers interlaced, Adam listened... "Sir Marius... I laud yer accomplishments as noted so far... but realize that no castle, nor city, regardless of how large is impenetrable..." he glances to Claramae then back to Marius... "I see yu are motivated by love... but even love must take a backseat to duty... I just wish yer diligence was motivated more for country than lady... but truly I understand..." looking to Bess and back to Marius. He looks to Claramae... "Has yer order failed M'Lady?" Meanwhile, Kam listened... and felt remorse for his kinsmen... to know even while they speak, hundreds die or are enslaved... The knight speaks of attempts on his and his woman's lives, yet she is not enslaved as his is... His stomach churned as he listened, knowing full well the Amir was sweating all over his Briseis as he stood listening... When Marius spoke of the Papacy, Adam cringed... he hated the mass influence the Pope had over people... and as yet, had repelled most of the Papal Bulls...Adam looked to Marius... "M'Lord... I, and Skye thanks you for your endeavors... and selfless duty..." Calling to Brom... "Alert 10 men to ride under Sir Marius..." then he looks back at the knight... "M'Lord, yu swear fealty to Skye... and yu shall have 10 men under yer command... with orders to keep these Spaniards from my shores... free reign... answer to only me or Lady Bess..." he looks to Bess, then back to Marius... "M'Lord... I do pray yu shall expect nothing from Skye... should yu have better offeres, remember yu are a knight, nay a mercenary... and I shall hold yer fealty til death or release by me..." Adam stands... "Come forth and swaer fealty... an' Ah shall accept it readily..." op He looks to Lady Janice and Claramae... "Yu both shall be witnesses and swear by the books with yuer seals..." He motions for Marius::::::: lly he
Marius: "Your Majesty, I will most happily swear allegiance to Skye, and I do not need the ten men for the coastal work. And in truth, the cavalry does come under the command of the Lord Marshal, and it would not be right to accept such a command directly from you. He would be properly slighted. I am at present working with the Elite Ranger. If that is acceptable to you? " Kneeling in front of the High Lord "I do hereby give my Allegiance to Sky and pledge fealtyto Adam Aberdeen, High Lord and Duke of Skye. I am his man till breath leaves my body." (d)'
Adam: Adam smiles... "I nay said yu needed them M'Lord... only should yu use them...they are at yer disposal..." he chuckles... "Aye tis true... but I command all my armies..." he laughs... "Brom, order 10 men to the Ranger Elite... let her decide what to do..." then he looks to Marius and moves forward. Adam looks to Marius as he kneels... drawing his sword, he speaks... "By the power vested in me as Mo'r Triath..." he raises his sword and taps the man's shoulder... " and as Protector of all the Gaelic Nations... I accept yer offered fealty... " then he taps the other shoulder..."and from this day forward... yu shall be a Knight of Skye and the Gaelic Nations... Rise Sir Marius deBrabant..." back in Skye as soon as possible Lady Claramae... England is first to be secured... then back to Skye with me..." he smiled, knowing she had a large task ahead of her. Looking at Kamenwati... "Sir, yu shall have yer meeting with Lord General... I shall give him authorization to handle Fez... with yu as an advisor to Skye on Middle Sea affairs..." Kam just smiled, his head down. "Allah be praised. Thank you MiLord..." :::::
Claramae: "If I may your majesties, Sir deBrabant may also have use of The Order's private arms, should it please him. We are not infallable, I acknowledge error where error is had, we are stretched to think M'Lord High King and that is the crux of it. But soon it shall not be that way. For home I shall be, to manage things properly." Sorschal had not been the same since the attacks some years ago, and it was more important than ever she return home to secure the legacy anew. "He is also given permission to access those I have...quartered, in prison, for my use of information. My notes sir, readily at hand for you when you call upon the Hall." He would be given access to her personal notes, she thought more of him than he did of her. But it was the case of most men.
Janice:Janice had observed the ceremony with tears in her eyes! Oh, how she released her anger while seeking to throw herself upon the High Lord's hem to kiss them! What was done in shadow could come unto the light. She lowered her head in silent thanks to the royal man and unto God for this day. But one shining light in a dark sea. What then would she offer. "There is more High Lord. The infiltration of James of Lincoln, it needed funding, it comes from two Templar men. Not of your kith sir, no, they betray you not, but they are two Spaniards who seek to give the Templar what they believe it needs, a place in Europe again, within the pope's eye. It is they who are grooming Spainish interest against you sir, and using the hospitality of their brothers for sin. They have sequestered information within the libraries that would condemn you and begin an Inquisistion. I have seen it, and lifted a pair of maps that tell of some of their old treasue ships come to spanish shores. It is how they fund the assains, hoping one of the two houses founded will be the one to have a new era. Should it please you my Lord..let me, with your man's help, steal from the Spanish what they would seek to steal from you. If my Lord will pardon the theft within his own archives, against a foreign body. I am fluent in spanish, as well as arabic. My hands are yours to command to write your will in any tongue...and my head yours to maintain your secrets in." (d)
Adam: Adam looked to Claramae... "Whatever yu must do...do it..." acknowledging her talents would not go unused. "Get home as quickly as possible, leaving England safe for Skye..." Listening to Lady Janice, Adam frowns..."Should yu need assiatnce with Templars, seek out a man named Jacques Armand... he could help yu..." Adam offered a slight smirk. "That is all I can tell yu..." he winked at her. "Thank you for all yer effort M'Lady..." :::::::
Marius: "High Lord, forgive me, but I feel compelled to strain your generosity once again. I do not ask for myself. Lady Janice has served Skye faithfully, and never more then her uncovering of the Templar conspiracy in the other castle. I know that she is a lady by virture of her marriage to me. I ask you to do her honor for her own sake, and for the services she has done for the realm." Marius is nervous as he speaks. He has never been one to curry favor or beg for them either. Yet this was a matter of honor to him; it demanded to be said. And he did, even if it was to his own discredit. Yet she should have the honors she deserves on her own account. (d)
Janice: "I seek nothing...but what is given me." Which was the sweet one's problem entire, or for what she worked for she sought nothing more though gave ten times of that. She held her skirts in hand before releasing them to hold nervous hands that twitter. "What more could ever be? You have given my husband such pride and allowed us our marriage.."
Adam: Adam smiled and looked at Bess... shaking his head... "Yae knaew luv, tis so many people in Skye that bae great... lands abroad bae jealous Ah think..." then he looks back to Janice... "Lady Janice... come froth, and kneel..." he smiled... ::::
Beathag and Janice:: "But from those tha' speak of her, my lord husband..she is the heart o' them within the Ebon Hall. She has translated many documents fer many things, and even now helps m'poor scribe Brecon ap Gwyilliam from her own heart..." Beathag could not agree more. Those that served did so out of love more so than requirement, out of a spirit of universal belief. The girl was so nervous she didn't move! Beathag smiled, lowering to take Janice's hand. "M'lady.... thank you." She fell upon her knee with a measure of grace, and held herself steady.(d)
Adam: Standing Adam moved forward... watching janice kneel, he placed his hand upon her head... Jaince Olivia deBrabant... by the powers vested as Mo'r Triath... I call forth yer work as a translator and scribe as "Lady of Books and Archives for the Court of Skye..." he smiles... "Rise Lady Janice..." glancing to Claramae, Marius, and Bess... "Yu all are witness this day... and as susch place yer seal upon the books for the Archivist..." he winks at Janice...:::::
Claramae: Once Claramae put her seal upon the books as witness to both knight and archivist, for once in a rare day she let a smile grace her lips. One that near brought Beathag to her feet, and stole Janice's heart for something on the woman was not beauty of terror, but of pride. She went forward and kissed Janice's forehead, before turning to place a hand to Marius' shoulder. "You will take care of one another, won't you? Remember, use the household's private arms to assist you. Your James of Lincoln has a font of information from England, so I will cut off it's head. As for the other notes, they have been left for you upon my desk in Blue Castle, you know well enough of the Hall.." To know thearea around her private areas were rigged. England called, and with it the woman would simply leave as any whom have business are want to do.
Janice:As for Janice? A hand upon her head kept her from leaping to her feet in astonishment. Lady of Books and Archives? All the treasures of the land at her fingertips? She could have fainted! Once she was privy to rise...she went to stand beside her husband in abseloute shock. "Th..thank you..your majesty, I shall honor you as you have..honored me." She held Marius' hand (d)
Marius: Marius stands there now, glowing with pride not for Griffin knighthood, but for the honor done to Janice, a noble lady now in her own right as well as his wife. God has been good to both of them this day. He simply could not help himself . He bowed to her Lady Janice de Brabant, Lady of Books and Archives for Skye. He could just look into her eyes; perhaps for both there were tears. Marius did manage to tear himself away for just a moment to speak to Lady St. Laurence. "Rest assured lady that to defend Skye, I shall use any tool at my disposal. I wish you good fortune in England; I think you will need it." Turning back to Janice, he gently tood her hand, both of them gracefully backing out of the Great Hall. Once outside, he retrieved his weapons from Brom, and there was a full armed handshake. And a silent promise by Marius to get this man into any unit he would command. With Janice they they then went out of the castle to their mounts and back to their own home for a well deserved night of celebration and relief for them both. (d)
Ignia Ferroque: Adam smiled and sat back upon the throne... The Sabbath had been a good day... And as Bess sat back down too, he reached for her hand... Sentiments between them was never hidden from public... now nor after they shall be crowned... "Tis a goot day lass..."
Adam and Kamenwati:: Adam left Ebony Hall and rode his white horse around town, with no particular destination determined. All the while, he would see people coming and going, living their lives in peace and tranquility. This mixed with decisions as to what may soon turn into a full-blown war... especially one of the seas. He tugged the reins of the battle-horse and wheeled it into the stables of the castle. Dismounting, his long slow strides carried him into the corridors... As he walked along, he was shadowed by one hidden in the darkness... as he passed an intersection of the castle, the shadowed one stepped out and stopped the Mo'r Triath... Bowing down to one knee, Kamenwati, the Moroccan warlord, now hunted as a traitor, presumed dead, knelt before the Griffin of Scotland. "MiLord, forgive this humble one and pray yu smite me not." His hands were extended with palms upward, head bowed deep almost to the knee. Adam stopped abruptly and reached for his sword at the hip. Only when the man bowed submissively did he see he was no danger. "How did yu get in here?" : Kam did not look up... "MiLord, I shall explain all, but I must warn yu of yer request for trade with the Amir of Fez... May I speak freely MiLord?" "Rise, walk with me... and speak freely..." Adam bade the man freedom to rise and speak... Kam rose and took a position slightly to the side and rear of the Mo'r Triath... "MiLord... I have just returned from the lands of the Amir... and all is not well there..." And as the two men walked thru the halls, the man of the Desert spoke softly, and the words he uttered soon gave Adam a look of concern... followed by a few curses... Pausing in the corridor, Adam grasps a servant by the arm. "Summon th' Mo'r Okesula and the Lady Claramae tae the Great Hall... Ah shall bae there... oh and the Lady of the Letters tae..." then he released the young man and headed for the Great Hall with his unexpected visitor... e too Adam stood and waited and bade the dark skinned man to rise and follow him... standing upon the raised platform, Adam sat in the raised chair...:::::
Claramae and Beathag: "That is the way of it, your majesty. Upon the tide of this day I will be gone. They think me so already for benefit's sake. England shall not wait, and it is important to establish the reign of your husband as secure, let alone it is the gate way to Europe." The Mo'r Oukselo arched one brow at the herald 'your majesty' but it had always come out of the woman's mouth. Why should it be different now when the coronoation eve was to be planned, when a crown commisioned? Reality was different than assumption. Soon the Mo'r Oukselo would be in conjecture with Queen; to rule a land once so dispised she spit at the mention of it's name. To claim what was never to be claimed. How strange was it they all came to the dawn of another day that would define more than one life? Beathag was attired in her regal plain, for it was the Sabbath, the one Christian institution she utlized to her benefit. "Then gae ye must, Ah know ye've told Ahdam o' it but did he e'en realize ye are still here? At least ye may.." Tell him in person? Living persuasion was better than writ. The servant had come with expedition to convey the message of the two summons, surprised that he would have both at one pass. With a furrowed brow, the tone conveyed business which thus broke the Sunday institution. Ah well. It was not as if she pious. Leading the way to the room, the Lady of many heralds followed at a respective side pace. Claramae let out a sigh within the mind only;
Janice:The order had also called for the Lady of Letters whom for all the truth the words held was only a knight's wife, married to a knight whom both had minds wrapped around more of the situation than any believed. "This archive here Marius, is on lost clans. Is this truly how you would spend your Sabbath?" Pent in a library with beauty both could see, but what use was it when the mind was so addled? Escape. To the place that held as much an axe over their heads as Europe did. Lovely. It made precious little sense but she loved it here. What surprise was this that people combing through book rows were asking "Where is the Lady Viscreed..no no, the Lady de'Brabant, she is married aye. Have you looked with her husband, or in Church?" "Who would look for me on a Sunday?" Peering her head around the shelving, the servant instructed that the Mo'r Triath, the King, was calling. (d)
Adam and Kamenwati: Adam and Kam were discussing what was transpiring in Fez... the Amir had, for years been demoralizing his people to the extent of death and torture... The Amir had closed doors to outisders, with one tendecy... the French privateers... both set on securing the Pillars of Hercules... Adam leaned to the side, his elbow upon the chairs arm... "Then what is yae seek o'me, sir...?" Kam bowed his head... "I was born Egyptian... of a Moroccan Father... I come to see Lord General... but he is elsewhere...time is urgent MiLord... my ... wife... Briseis is enslved......" Adam looked at Kam and started to speak but was interrupted by the opening of the doors of the Great Hall...:::::
Marius: Marius with Janice on his arm marched into the Great Hall, his back straight and proud. He had done more then his duty to Skye already. Today would decide much; it was all up to the High Lord, or Duke, or King. Marius is a proud man, and normally he plays the game of court. Today, he was not sure just how he would react. It was all with the High Lord for good or ill today. Of one thing he was sure; he would not be dishonored or belittled this day. : Marius had had too many years of that behind it. (d)
Janice: Austrian paces were intense portions to keep up with when one's husband walked two full strides longer to her every one. Yestereve they'd gone to crosses again over the issue of what their place was in the kingdom, if such a place anywhere even mattered anymore. Proud the Austrian was. His wife had once called him arrogant, blind, and terrible in a heated argument where her body would be laid prostrate for the benefit of division between those she'd 'served' . She understood his weariness, even if she did not share his despair. The land had only given her sanctity, safety, and a chance to flourish but at what price was it paid? No one knew she had nearly given limb, life, and innocence. "Mo'r Triath." said the scholar, lowering herself before the royal, remaining as the Mo'r Oukselo entered with....Lady Laurence? Confusion painted features that remained lowered out of respect, but a letter announcing leaving put a bitterness inside her that might have rivaled even her husbands.
Beathag: "Husband n' King, good day..Sir deBrabant, Lady deBrabant." The other great hall chair was where she sat beside him, awaiting what would be said or decided. Claramae would stand not far from Janice. (d)
Adam: Adam looks at the knight with the lady, then looks to Kam... "yaer wife sir? My reports says yu killed her, burned the cottage down with her in it..." he rubbed his chin... "but we found nae body..."
Kamenwati: Kam interrupted... "MiLord, I did not kill her... we were attacked..." he raised his shirt and showed the scar...then a guard tapped his shoulder and made him wait to be allowed to speak... "My apologies MiLord..."
Adam: Adam shook his head and motioned the guard away... looking back to the knight and the translator... A smile crossed his face as Bess, his beloved wife... and Claramae... his beloved Governor entered the Great Hall... "Good day tae yae all..." as he watched Bess take her place, and the others paid respect... "This is Kamenwati... a leader of Morocco... banned as a traitor because he fell in love with the beauty of Skye... and a lass..." then he began to fill in the missing information about Briseis, the midwife, was not murdered by Kam, but enslaved by the Amir... and how Kam was almost murdered as well... "Sae yae see... Ah 'ave been betrayed by the Muslim King... and Lady Janice, I pray yu are well... and Ah apologize for wot yae been thru..." He pauses... "Ah bae much concerned... Fez is threatening the closure of the Strait... as well as Espania..." once again a pause... "AH want free trade for Skye and the NAtions... Ah wan tae be afore France n Spain in lead of trade... Ah know wot Ah want... how must Ah proceed?" He looks to Kam, then the others, one by one...:::::
Marius: Marius noted most carefully that he had not even been greeted by the High Lord said nothing. In fact it took the most determined effort on his part not to yawn. (d)
Janice:: Fye. Fye! Reign was granted by will of God as well as will of good men. Janice could have cringed at the absence of acknowledging unto the man whom stood more a stranger among them than Kamenwati. In truth she did her best not to to be hesitant of him for many men served the Mo'r Triath that were bronzed in color. Yet what if this one whispered poison in ears with a woman for his cloak of hiding? The thought, never put aloud, remained internal. The same could easily be said of her Marius, what if he came on behalf of the Holy Roman Empire? The story played out that made her eyes burn, her head ache. Her hands held fast to skirts as she lowered once more before rising. "No my lord I am not well." The question was answered truthful; she had been dreaming but the dreams were only the distance between truth and lie. Beathag's brow clenched in worry as she sought the issue. "What is yer whole trouble?" Janice wondered what lines were to be crossed; would her husband look a fool if his wife spoke or would she for ignoring royal issue? She glared at Claramae one moment before speaking. Damn it. Damn each and every one of them, all of them even Marius were pinning her. "I live in fear for the life of my husband and myself from no war upon your soil fought in dignity, but one in shadows too long allowed to go forward.My shop is rebuilt yet business is perilous to under-take. The burning is as much a mark as any brand that lasts. My husband seeks to make name for himself yet it will be very hard if an arrow detracts from his patrol or lessons with the calvary. He worries much, angers more. I tell him it is not Austria and all are given accord for their service, but he has nearly died more times since his short time here..than I can count. I am used to intrigues. It is in my lineage My Lady and Lord. But he has information and as have I..that is made to go slowly, too slowly. At this rate , both of us will die before you even hear the full extent of either of our tales. Pardon my hardness, pray it not offend you. But no, I am not fine." She rose to find that Claramae wore as much of an expression that allowed for her surprise as control would give.
Beathag:"Ah've heard your plight told tae me by the Lady Laurence, as the full collection o' things.Are ye still nay made any more safe nor content? Twas m'belief all such information was shared twixt yerselves in the Grandmaster. Tae be given then untae the Lord. Wot has gone amiss? Come, Lady tell meh, why are they sae hardened?"
Claramae: Claramae stepped forward to meet the glaring eyes of one and the bored of another. "Sir deBrabant believes the Order in error for what places were infiltrated upon the Island, for what business conducted thus far. It is not merely the personal interest of his wife he has, but his own, of Skye as well. His wife keeps some skill for your husband's use, though as you know it is my belief that things were handled poorly upon all levels. He has information to which as I have said, your majesties, it is better her gives you for it is his full detail to give." She took no credit for his discoveries, nor wanted them. Was he angered then at what was done to him prior, or electing a nation findingits feet? "My personal ideals of the man are that he is skilled for surviving what he has, given he was in sights of Castillian assasins. Quick, industrious, useful, clever, strong. If not brash. Impatient. But given the conditions to which his wife doth speak, who would not be? So then, Sir. Will you take your chance and accord? Your information along with mine, will be essential. I am going to England on this day's very tide to combat it there." She studied him, a mannerism which made Janice wish to slap her so hard it would resonate. While she gave Marius his due, why had she lied and said she left yesterday?
Beathag: "Husband, is there somewot ye have missed nay hearin' the tale full as by those who have lived it? If there is more, and with wot yer man here says..the situation is..dire." (d)
Marius:"Oh indeed much has been missed, but that is what happens when lies are told. It is not my opinion, but rather fact that the Order has failed most grievously. And of course they cannot even see what is in front of their faces and upon their own doorstep. A master spy has set up headquarters right here in the capital and has managed to penetrate the castle itself. This information came from my initial investigation of the ransacking of the book store. Two men had come ashore. One fled that very night, after having murdered the two locals he had hired while they were in our custody. And then I traced his companion to the castle where he attempted to gain entry as a servant, but the lady who is head of household did not accept him, but she remembered him well. Something did not suit her about him; she has a good sense of such without question. Then I found that the servants usually go to the Blue Boar Tavern.A few discreet question and I found a man answering to his description, sometimes calling himself James of Lincoln, had been befriending them at this place using some free ale and such. The castle is well and truly penetrated; he obtains much information and is not suspected, nor even seen in the vicinity. I might add that tracing him is most difficult, he changes is lodging frequently, almost every day. I reported this some time ago to the Lady St. Laurence, and yet I believe he is still at large and transmitting information to his employers overseas. I was also bothered by the assassins who first attempted the life of Lady Janice. After receiving permission I went on patrolbut not the usual locations. I went out to the fishing villages on the coast, who seem never to be visited. I was not surprised to hear that through the fishing fleets enemy agents come and go on a regular schedule. The two assassins in question came this way. In fact they were met by a party with horses for them. And the man who has penetrated the castle was one of them. In the background were more, but one of them at least was a woman, whose description fits that of the one who made the second attempt on Lady Janice's life. In this case my life was also to be ended. Fortunately I survived and foiled both attempts. While on patrol, I scattered gold to the villages and informed them that you would be most understanding. No punishment for prior acts, but we must know if any more come to our shores. The fisherman also informed me that smugglers using a few regular coves, also bring in such folks, also upon a regualr basis." At this point Marius takes a very long breath before he continues. "Yes, there is more. Your diplomatic activities with Morocco have engaged the interest of the Papcy. The Order had no idea of this until I brougtht them a message, another offer of emplyment for myself and the Lady Janice, and hers bore the Papal seal, which Lady St.Laurence did authenticate after a most rigorous examination. I have done service at personal risk without any to assist me for none would. When I gave this information to Ebony Hall, I was patted on the head and told to go home. I am at present taking the necessary steps to secure our coasts and perhaps even to allay Papal fears. I have not done this from orders. There were none to give them; so I took it upon myself to take these measures to serve Skye as I promised. Yet here I am treated like I do not exist and have done nothing. I am still not trusted. None in the military or in other areas will allow me to prove myself, yet I believe I have given proof enough. " He has spoken long and he has said his pieace. Now that High Lord can do what he will or not, and Marius truly expects it will be the not. (d)
Adam: Kamenwati stood to the side, his head bent well down... His countrymen would call them infidels... especially the King n Queen... for they took no religion... but he stood silent, the beliefs of his countrymen meant nothing to him... for Briseis calls Skye hiome... and his was with her... for now, he yearned for her safety...and freedom... Adam looked at Lady Janice and Claramae... glancing only to Bess, "Aye tis dire... and mistakes at the highest levels were made... but past is past and wot we do determines our future... and that is the decision that may right all..." then the knight spoke and Adam focused his attention on him... Then he looked at the knight... "Sir Marius... I had heard good about yer skills... but yet have I seen decisions that would make or break this country... at least none that are unsalvageable..." Adam's Gaelic overtones now disappeared and the clear English came forth... Sea-green eyes looked deep into this man... Hard he was, skilled as well... but he was a nut to crack, if his wife bethrashed him as well... goodFingers interlaced, Adam listened... "Sir Marius... I laud yer accomplishments as noted so far... but realize that no castle, nor city, regardless of how large is impenetrable..." he glances to Claramae then back to Marius... "I see yu are motivated by love... but even love must take a backseat to duty... I just wish yer diligence was motivated more for country than lady... but truly I understand..." looking to Bess and back to Marius. He looks to Claramae... "Has yer order failed M'Lady?" Meanwhile, Kam listened... and felt remorse for his kinsmen... to know even while they speak, hundreds die or are enslaved... The knight speaks of attempts on his and his woman's lives, yet she is not enslaved as his is... His stomach churned as he listened, knowing full well the Amir was sweating all over his Briseis as he stood listening... When Marius spoke of the Papacy, Adam cringed... he hated the mass influence the Pope had over people... and as yet, had repelled most of the Papal Bulls...Adam looked to Marius... "M'Lord... I, and Skye thanks you for your endeavors... and selfless duty..." Calling to Brom... "Alert 10 men to ride under Sir Marius..." then he looks back at the knight... "M'Lord, yu swear fealty to Skye... and yu shall have 10 men under yer command... with orders to keep these Spaniards from my shores... free reign... answer to only me or Lady Bess..." he looks to Bess, then back to Marius... "M'Lord... I do pray yu shall expect nothing from Skye... should yu have better offeres, remember yu are a knight, nay a mercenary... and I shall hold yer fealty til death or release by me..." Adam stands... "Come forth and swaer fealty... an' Ah shall accept it readily..." op He looks to Lady Janice and Claramae... "Yu both shall be witnesses and swear by the books with yuer seals..." He motions for Marius::::::: lly he
Marius: "Your Majesty, I will most happily swear allegiance to Skye, and I do not need the ten men for the coastal work. And in truth, the cavalry does come under the command of the Lord Marshal, and it would not be right to accept such a command directly from you. He would be properly slighted. I am at present working with the Elite Ranger. If that is acceptable to you? " Kneeling in front of the High Lord "I do hereby give my Allegiance to Sky and pledge fealtyto Adam Aberdeen, High Lord and Duke of Skye. I am his man till breath leaves my body." (d)'
Adam: Adam smiles... "I nay said yu needed them M'Lord... only should yu use them...they are at yer disposal..." he chuckles... "Aye tis true... but I command all my armies..." he laughs... "Brom, order 10 men to the Ranger Elite... let her decide what to do..." then he looks to Marius and moves forward. Adam looks to Marius as he kneels... drawing his sword, he speaks... "By the power vested in me as Mo'r Triath..." he raises his sword and taps the man's shoulder... " and as Protector of all the Gaelic Nations... I accept yer offered fealty... " then he taps the other shoulder..."and from this day forward... yu shall be a Knight of Skye and the Gaelic Nations... Rise Sir Marius deBrabant..." back in Skye as soon as possible Lady Claramae... England is first to be secured... then back to Skye with me..." he smiled, knowing she had a large task ahead of her. Looking at Kamenwati... "Sir, yu shall have yer meeting with Lord General... I shall give him authorization to handle Fez... with yu as an advisor to Skye on Middle Sea affairs..." Kam just smiled, his head down. "Allah be praised. Thank you MiLord..." :::::
Claramae: "If I may your majesties, Sir deBrabant may also have use of The Order's private arms, should it please him. We are not infallable, I acknowledge error where error is had, we are stretched to think M'Lord High King and that is the crux of it. But soon it shall not be that way. For home I shall be, to manage things properly." Sorschal had not been the same since the attacks some years ago, and it was more important than ever she return home to secure the legacy anew. "He is also given permission to access those I have...quartered, in prison, for my use of information. My notes sir, readily at hand for you when you call upon the Hall." He would be given access to her personal notes, she thought more of him than he did of her. But it was the case of most men.
Janice:Janice had observed the ceremony with tears in her eyes! Oh, how she released her anger while seeking to throw herself upon the High Lord's hem to kiss them! What was done in shadow could come unto the light. She lowered her head in silent thanks to the royal man and unto God for this day. But one shining light in a dark sea. What then would she offer. "There is more High Lord. The infiltration of James of Lincoln, it needed funding, it comes from two Templar men. Not of your kith sir, no, they betray you not, but they are two Spaniards who seek to give the Templar what they believe it needs, a place in Europe again, within the pope's eye. It is they who are grooming Spainish interest against you sir, and using the hospitality of their brothers for sin. They have sequestered information within the libraries that would condemn you and begin an Inquisistion. I have seen it, and lifted a pair of maps that tell of some of their old treasue ships come to spanish shores. It is how they fund the assains, hoping one of the two houses founded will be the one to have a new era. Should it please you my Lord..let me, with your man's help, steal from the Spanish what they would seek to steal from you. If my Lord will pardon the theft within his own archives, against a foreign body. I am fluent in spanish, as well as arabic. My hands are yours to command to write your will in any tongue...and my head yours to maintain your secrets in." (d)
Adam: Adam looked to Claramae... "Whatever yu must do...do it..." acknowledging her talents would not go unused. "Get home as quickly as possible, leaving England safe for Skye..." Listening to Lady Janice, Adam frowns..."Should yu need assiatnce with Templars, seek out a man named Jacques Armand... he could help yu..." Adam offered a slight smirk. "That is all I can tell yu..." he winked at her. "Thank you for all yer effort M'Lady..." :::::::
Marius: "High Lord, forgive me, but I feel compelled to strain your generosity once again. I do not ask for myself. Lady Janice has served Skye faithfully, and never more then her uncovering of the Templar conspiracy in the other castle. I know that she is a lady by virture of her marriage to me. I ask you to do her honor for her own sake, and for the services she has done for the realm." Marius is nervous as he speaks. He has never been one to curry favor or beg for them either. Yet this was a matter of honor to him; it demanded to be said. And he did, even if it was to his own discredit. Yet she should have the honors she deserves on her own account. (d)
Janice: "I seek nothing...but what is given me." Which was the sweet one's problem entire, or for what she worked for she sought nothing more though gave ten times of that. She held her skirts in hand before releasing them to hold nervous hands that twitter. "What more could ever be? You have given my husband such pride and allowed us our marriage.."
Adam: Adam smiled and looked at Bess... shaking his head... "Yae knaew luv, tis so many people in Skye that bae great... lands abroad bae jealous Ah think..." then he looks back to Janice... "Lady Janice... come froth, and kneel..." he smiled... ::::
Beathag and Janice:: "But from those tha' speak of her, my lord husband..she is the heart o' them within the Ebon Hall. She has translated many documents fer many things, and even now helps m'poor scribe Brecon ap Gwyilliam from her own heart..." Beathag could not agree more. Those that served did so out of love more so than requirement, out of a spirit of universal belief. The girl was so nervous she didn't move! Beathag smiled, lowering to take Janice's hand. "M'lady.... thank you." She fell upon her knee with a measure of grace, and held herself steady.(d)
Adam: Standing Adam moved forward... watching janice kneel, he placed his hand upon her head... Jaince Olivia deBrabant... by the powers vested as Mo'r Triath... I call forth yer work as a translator and scribe as "Lady of Books and Archives for the Court of Skye..." he smiles... "Rise Lady Janice..." glancing to Claramae, Marius, and Bess... "Yu all are witness this day... and as susch place yer seal upon the books for the Archivist..." he winks at Janice...:::::
Claramae: Once Claramae put her seal upon the books as witness to both knight and archivist, for once in a rare day she let a smile grace her lips. One that near brought Beathag to her feet, and stole Janice's heart for something on the woman was not beauty of terror, but of pride. She went forward and kissed Janice's forehead, before turning to place a hand to Marius' shoulder. "You will take care of one another, won't you? Remember, use the household's private arms to assist you. Your James of Lincoln has a font of information from England, so I will cut off it's head. As for the other notes, they have been left for you upon my desk in Blue Castle, you know well enough of the Hall.." To know thearea around her private areas were rigged. England called, and with it the woman would simply leave as any whom have business are want to do.
Janice:As for Janice? A hand upon her head kept her from leaping to her feet in astonishment. Lady of Books and Archives? All the treasures of the land at her fingertips? She could have fainted! Once she was privy to rise...she went to stand beside her husband in abseloute shock. "Th..thank you..your majesty, I shall honor you as you have..honored me." She held Marius' hand (d)
Marius: Marius stands there now, glowing with pride not for Griffin knighthood, but for the honor done to Janice, a noble lady now in her own right as well as his wife. God has been good to both of them this day. He simply could not help himself . He bowed to her Lady Janice de Brabant, Lady of Books and Archives for Skye. He could just look into her eyes; perhaps for both there were tears. Marius did manage to tear himself away for just a moment to speak to Lady St. Laurence. "Rest assured lady that to defend Skye, I shall use any tool at my disposal. I wish you good fortune in England; I think you will need it." Turning back to Janice, he gently tood her hand, both of them gracefully backing out of the Great Hall. Once outside, he retrieved his weapons from Brom, and there was a full armed handshake. And a silent promise by Marius to get this man into any unit he would command. With Janice they they then went out of the castle to their mounts and back to their own home for a well deserved night of celebration and relief for them both. (d)
Ignia Ferroque: Adam smiled and sat back upon the throne... The Sabbath had been a good day... And as Bess sat back down too, he reached for her hand... Sentiments between them was never hidden from public... now nor after they shall be crowned... "Tis a goot day lass..."
