Post by Queen Beathag Aberdeen on Jun 13, 2011 23:41:48 GMT -6
Part 2
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was a quiet laugh from Brother Diarmuid, as he said, "Ah, my flock...." But as the conversation turned to darker matters? Brother Diarmuid was quiet for a while, before saying - in English - "....the Blue Castle entertains Spaniards, my friend. That alone is grave cause for concern." The Spaniards had never truly grown comfortable with their Morrish neighbors. Then the good brother smiled, before clasping his hands. "Now, I am somewhat disappointed. I had surely thought a fine business such as this would have a chess board...." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
Aodhan was happy that Diarmuid continued to discuss other matters. Akram took the lead to reply "The Spaniards are to me like the English, or the French, or any other of these lands. There are the good among them, and there are those we endure. Now, to chess? We have such a thing. Has your time among your own people softened your mind?" Charlemagne was said to have been given the most exquisite chess set in the entirity of the known world during his time, among the menagerie of other things he kept including exotic persons and animals. As Akram took up the chess set to establish the game,
Kadejah-Akilah bint Badra al-Mazin
Kadejah would go on to attend other work, but not before seeing the other guests served. With her encouragement, the princes of Scotland would come closer to the priest in order to watch the game unfold, and as she said "To learn, it may pass your visits faster."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Yet the uncle and nephew would speak, and Aodhan for the first time opened to Abdul on any subject what so ever. True, they had spoken for some time, but for some reason he found it easier to connect with the people who were not of his blood than the one that was. He shared with Abdul the talk of how the Spaniard had spoken out against the way the war had gone when Spain attacked England, but would in the interest of peace and his duty to Christ, make all be done with. It was him who helped to hammer out what was called accords now in place, but Aodhan called them merely the way that Spain and England were at peace, and though the ship was now preparing to sail back to Spain.. the Cardinal would not be there. Oh there was even arguments of having him buried here in so much 'heathen ground' so for a point of interest he was taken to Scotland itself, to an enclave of brothers to be blessed, put in state, and buried there after with all the ritual according his station in the church. It's spilling in to the streets was not common discussion, but among the court and church it was a matter of silence broken often in whisper. It frightened him, and made him worry. Some had said the killing came at the hand of one of the Cardinal's african servants, or so it was called until they left the water and he would be a slave again. Some said the customs of the land they observed during the stay polluted the servants mind (D)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"I merely ask," the good brother said, "for it had not yet been produced." Once the chess set had appeared, Brother Diarmuiod laughed quietly. "It may have... it may have...For I am now more accustomed to the rules used here, than those of Arbia...." As the game wore on, Brother Diarmuid was content to allow the convresation to flow around him. For while he had much knowledge on what had happened, he could not share it -- it being only for the ears of Claramae, the secret masters of the Ebon Talon, and - perhaps - a High Sheriff or Bailif when the matter had been settled. So, instead, he focused on his chess game. How long would he and Akram play? Would they play long past the time that the Black Prince was due to return to the castle, would they play into the late evening when they would be free to enjoy the hooka? The only comment that Brother Diarmuid made was a quiet, "Truly? I had thought the currnt rumor was that it was another Spaniard." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
It was decided that the Augustinian and al-Hadin would play chess. Permission was granted for the use of the name Akram to be freely used on his tongue. While he thought it rude that custom was used against them, sealing them to the sacred ritual of hospitality when before the Queen? He had to admit that it was quite clever! The beautiful pieces of carved rosewood marked it as not a bejeweled, king's set, but still a possession worth having. It marked that he, Akram, had been given much and was willing to share with the company he kept. "Which color will you play?" The rosewood that had to serve for the light pieces had been left out in the sun to be bleached by the light, whilst the dark end held its natural color. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"Hmm," Said the Augustinian. While he had learned many valuable lesson in his life. The first was that, in chess and life, no decision was to be rushed. After careful consideration, the Augustinian said, "I shall choose the army of dark rosewood." there was a light smile. It suited him. "Are we to play by the rules of your homeland? If so, I caution that it may appear an easy victory at the outset -- it has been some time since I have played by them." There was a broad smile, "But I am confident that I shall claim the advantage after that." After their pieces had been arranged, he would recline amongst the pillows. What was the second important he always kept in mind? Why, it was simple: Never follow a Cistercian up a ladder! (D)
Akram al-Hadin
"Oh, is this so! You are very confident my friend. Or should I accuse you of vanity? Allah says that for all of his people of the book, it is a sin." He smiled in a casual way while his eyes sparkled with curiosity for the game's onset. This would leave Akram to play the lighter shade, which was in a way quite humerous. Either men played the oppposite of flesh so the opposite of themselves, maybe holding to some inner natures unvoiced in the present conversation. As the pieces were established and the first move made by the correct color, Akram felt at piece. The visitors were watching the game, leaning in on their stools. It was not a sport of physicality as arm wrestling or grappling, but one of the mind that suited the quiet Caldean and the ever-learning Brycean. Aodhan still remained with his Uncle, discussing the ways of the world. Abdul told him, "If you give creedance to them, it gives them power. To do nothing is to see everything. You will one day be in charge of many things. Only lift your hand when the action is clear unless it is utmost you do otherwise, son of my brother." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
As the pawns marched forward, as the knights readied thier mounts, Brother Diarmuid would chuckle softly. "Mm, I would like to think it is so....." And as the game began in earnest, Brother Diarmuid would indeed appear to have lost the advantage. And yet, as befitting their first encounter, Brother Diarmuid revealed a devious and clever mind. While Akram had claimed a few pieces, it was clear that they had not been sacrificed lightly -- each pawn that Akram had claimed, had allowed Brother Diarmuid to refresh himself on the Arabic rules of chess. It was also revealed that Brother Diarmuid as an avid player, taking great care and deliberation in his moves. (D)
Akram al-Hadin
Akram had learned to play late in his life, and from Abdul some time after each had come to freedom. While purchasing the freedom of others, he taught his friend how to maneuver each piece, when to sacrifice a knight for the good of the vizier, the piece the Europeans now called a Bishop. When to move the Queen out for the protection of the King. The priest was not lackluster! "I admit," said the man "You are quite good." The princes of Scotland nodded at the game commencing. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
The Augustinian would incline his head softly, "I thank you for the compliment.... And you, yourself, are quiet skilled." Another thus was another piece claimed, as the game continued. There was a smile, "I admit that chess is amongst my vices....." Clearly, good food and good booze were amongst the first two - given that the Augustian had the apperance of a well-fed man. Still, underneath it was muscle. And besides, he needed the calories to priest. "There is no doubting that chess sharpens the mind -- for I learned that well from the Abbot. Once, we engaged in a game that lasted three days..." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
"Thank you, holy man. I try. I practice often with al-Mazin, al-Hadin has not yet bested him but it is close. Now, my sister is humble. She reminds me of the tale of Sheherizade. A very intelligent woman enough to stay alive, but only revealing it by nightfall." Or beyond the eye of the public, reflected to mirror only in those that knew her best. More moves were made, and the priest had the advantage but Akram took another when one of his viziers advanced to claim the priest's side castle. How did it come so far? "This is not too terrible a vice. I have not many. My faith does not call for the consumption of your brother's beers." So he could not claim to drink, " and we give often to the poor " so he held fast to a pillar of the faith. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was a slight cant of his head. That was interesting information, but it was something that Brother Diarmuid kept to himself. There was a quiet nod of his head, "It is indeed a very noble thing to do." One of Akram's knights was claimed by a pawn. A light smile, "Least you think ill of my visits to the castle, I continue to minister to Christ's flock....." Given that Christ was numbered a great man in the Moslem faith, Akram would likely know of who Christ had ministered too. One wondered, was that when Akram would begin to feel as though he had met Brother Diarmuid once before? (D)
Akram al-Hadin & Kadejah witnessing the scene unfolding:
Christ was given to be one of the prophets, and Mary was given esteem as the mother of one. He was not ignorant of this, nor did he care to say which faith held greater truck in the eyes of the Almighty. He knew that under those who had taught him the faith of Allah as given to him on the rock by the archangel Gabriel, he had been tethered by a slave's yoke. He knew that his fellow men were tethered to Christian yokes, and that in the seas surrounding his home a trade was made for Christian slaves. So went the relations among the People of the Book .Akram let out a sound of great suprise to see his pawn fall. Now a new stragety would need to be considered. "It is what you are supposed to do," he said with a soft tone. He had never seen a priest do any differently. Even the ones who were with their faults never gave away ceremony.
Kadejah kept the water warm for more drinks, trays filled with food, and continued on her business as the warmest ghost that ever lived. Yet it would be her eyes, not those of the men, who noticed what ruckus was being raised in their quarter of town. Saying nothing, she slipped to the side door to watch further. It seemed some men of Spanish origin (indeed, they were of the ambassadors household, for the livery said it thus) were harrassing men of dark skin, calling them "Murderer, murderer! You killed a man of God. One of you taught his slave to do it!" They jeered, they spat at the soles of their shoes. The women were being pushed inside the safety of homes or further inside of stalls. Second to see this would be Aodhan, who had gone toward the back to fufill a request of Abdul's, for a particular book, and had given the young man a way to notice it for he could not fathom arabic lettering. He saw Kadejah by the door, and asked her, "What do you look at?" and the woman replied, "A sad downfall, young Prince. It is not for your eyes." She did not think that the powerful mother of this boy would want him where there was danger, and would blame them if any ill had come to him, just as she turned Aodhan around, the words began to lift. "A black country, ruled by heathens. soon it will be overrun with more heathens, and with more Moors! And the darker the flesh, the less they even know of any God!”
This phrase would stick hard in the Scottish heart. It was true, wasn't it. The darker and the deeper one went beyond even the Christian kingdoms of Africa, surely, there would be tribes who had not given up their ways to the Catholics, to the Moslim, or even the Eastern-Orthodoxy. The young man chewed his lip, and Kadejah held him to her, and turned him around. Just as they were to go within "See, that one stares. THAT one knows it. You can see beyond her veil...black as tar. black as bowels."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen:
Aodhan would not have it! He instead now pulled upon Kadejah, and strong for is age, easily changed their place. "The future, the future there! The BLACK King of the Scotts, the Black Prince of Skye, Little Lucifer." These calls were conducted in Spanish, and they thought the boy would be ignorant.
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Aodhan was educated to befit his station, and had a cunning way of words; he delved deeply in to his Latin above all other things, followed by his French and Spanish..and of the second and third, French was his stronger because of the Norman influence that held so strong in Gaelic courts, but over the winter, with a thirst for knowledge? Spanish began to topple his French in supremacy, and his gentility as he aged was being eclipsed in times such as this by his family's infamous temper (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
It had been a sound on the edge of hearing, much akin to the buzzing of insects, and only know was fully realized. There was a heavy sigh from Brother Diarmuid, as the cries of the street was brought to bear upon this small cafe. There was a slow shake of his head, as sad eyes found Akrams. "It feels me with sorrow, friend, but I fear our contest will not be settled this night -- and needs wait til the morrow." With a bit of a grunt, the Augustinian moved himself from the floor. He would study the chess board, noting where the pieces were. Then he would turn toward to the Black Prince's fair-complected companions. "One of you, quickly, needs to go for either Castellian or the High Sheriff. Tell them to bring ample men, for I fear the mood shall turn bad." To Akram he asked, "Do you have a backway out?" If so, the volunteer was told to go that way. After a moment, he said, "I shall do what I can." And the Augustinian would retrieve his walking stick, hefting the weight of it. Then as boldy as a man of the cloth could, he walked out the front. Used to addressing his flock from the pulpit, from shouting in din of battle, his voice carried as bellowed at the crowd, "Quiet, I will have quiet from you!" To silence them, it seemed as though the Augustianian channeled forth Moses -- for he raised his empty hand, and his walking stick and gestured for them to calm. "What has riled you so? Is this how you would conduct yourselves, in memory of the Prince of Rome -- now gone to be with his Most Holy Father? If so, then be ashamed! This is a time to reflect upon the works of the Cardinal, to honor him by his teachings. And by maintaing peace amongst ourselves and our brothers." (D)
Princes Caldean and Brycean Aberdeen
The Black Princes's fair companions were the golden and dark headed Princes of Skye, of Scotland, both. Caldean turned to see the world as Diarmuid saw it. "I am going with you, Brother." It was not an offer, but a statement of a fact not to be refuted. He turned to his nephew "Get your cousin, the woman, and go. Take them out of the quarter if you must, and find a place where the men form their watch. It will be safer." Brycean beckoned for Abdul to come, for Akram was already moving to claim their weapons.
Akram al-Hadin
"My lord, my brother, come." He pulled on him, but instead Abdul would say.
Adul-Alyii al-Mazin
"Go with him, and keep Kadejah safe. I will not leave them." It was as blatant as that, as the obvious marks on their face never to be erased.
The Cardinal’s Son
With no time to waste the party began to move out of the back, whilst in the front Diarmuid managed to calm them for a small spell. One man breathed hard through his nostrils, this man who led them had been the Cardinals son. The knowledge was kept quiet but it was not an alien thing. How many brothers of the church turned their children either to other family members or kept them in their own elite households if it could be afforded? More than one could count. "His Grace Cardinal Caruna was a most holy man, and negotiated a great peace. Why was he murdered like a dog? You tell me this. And by his servant, who knew no dislike of his place..or questioned it not, until here was come with its strange customs." He sneered before looking out at the young man and Kadejah. "They are given freedoms that will see this throne torn down, and were it not for how close they would be to others of good Christian way, I would let it alone." There it was, the long and short of it."I am told his grace's servant spoke with a man in this business. Where are they? We have leave to speak with him, to clear our grievance, that is a custom, priest."
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
Kadejah had now disappeared from the doorway..but was made to call back to Abdul.. "do not let them hurt him!" For she feared grave things if it came to pass. Better former slaves should wear marks than a royal born boy.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
As Prince Brycean led the way with Akram from the back, Abdul came to stand beside his nephew, sword on his hip. "Who has cause to come to me?" He asked (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
To the Cardinal's son, the Brother Diarmuid called in response, "Certain, are you, that the Cardinal's servant is to blame? Then you have proof clad in iron! Share it now, with all of us, so we may be enlightend. Share it, too, with the Castellian -- when he arrives." Although lightly said, it was a subtle threat. A reminder to the mob that in Skye, law still reigned -- and the law would not stand for this breech of peace. There was again a gesture of quiet from Brother Diarmuid, before patiently turning his eyes on the Cardinal's son. If the crowd had quieted any, it allowed the Cardinal's son to make his claim -- and to have the validty of his words juged. "It is true that grievances are to be aired and settled -- in court of law!" Brother Diarmuid quietly swept his walking stick in a half-arch, to encompass the crowd. "The Castellian even now looks into this affair, as does the High Sheriff. It is for the courts, now." (D)
The Cardinal’s Son
"Not for the courts under man, but for those kept by a King, and by those in the eyes of God. It is a disgrace, brother, that the father is buried in this soil instead of in his. Where that I could find some way to keep him from the soil where men are still burnt on pagan pyres." This custom so prolific still was disgusting to him, there dead did not all go to the earth as the Church decreed? He feared his father's soul in Purgatory! He continued on "You are not a soldier, so you do not order us, sir." It was so, he had not an outward authority for it, and when he saw Abdul he said. "They say the servant spoke to you, and his madness stems from some custom or word you said, that made him rise against his master! His hand now was on Aodhan's shoulder, "And that one...why is he in your company, This Prince?"
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Abdul looked to Diarmuid, "Thank you, for bringing calm. I will speak to this one. There is no need for the keepers of your peace," or so it was hoped, but his face showed nothing to the contrary. The men of Spain settled, but were still tense. They allowed the leader of their party forward, and so Abdul, too, came forward. Aodhan would go to settle next to the priest as his uncle's hand led him that way. For once, he would not rise to protest the man's authority or make scene to stand beside what could turn dangerous. "It was only to give the servant a medicinal drought, for it was said your cardinal preferred Moor's medicine, and some of this was brought to me. I am given charter to sell and trade such goods, though do not make my business as a medic. The goods were pure, and good knowledge was given so." In truth the dram was looked over by Kadejah. Being that was not alien to testing for purity or spoiled goods, and said it was fine, he believed her. "It is common, and sold by many. It is to bring calm, and to numb pain. One is to only have a little. This was all." The Spanish contingent talked between themselves, one saying. "The servant fetched many remedies for his master, the Cardinal suffered of gout, and of pains in his belly. He had many drams in Spain from his own physician." The leader huffed.
The Cardinal’s Son
"It still does not explain the poison of his mind. The servant said he was told of the custom that men here are paid for their work, there are no masters and slaves!" Abdul nodded, "This is so, but I told him only as this is what I have heard, what I have seen. I poisoned his mind not." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
The good brother canted his head. Not a soldier? Fah, many forgot that the Hospitallers were a knightly order. A lesson, he feared, that some of the crowd would soon learn. "It is indeed a tragedy that the Cardinal should come to rest in any soil, for he was not yet in his prime." The Cardinal had been sixty-two. "Let us meet on the morrow, then, with the High Sheriff and your self -- for surely, there can be no harm in allowing the Cardinal home for his eternal rest." And Brother Diarmuid would quiet, letting Abdul have his say. To Aodhan, he said softly, "Be at the ready." There was no telling how a crowd might turn. As the crowd murmured about the medical dram, Brother Diarmuid calmly asked, "Certain are you that the servant committed the deed you accuse him off? I have, thus far, heard only of him a completing an errand for his master. And of the desire to see himself freed, which surely is not a sin..... Lay bare your proof of this foul dead, before us all. Let us share your enlightenment." (D)
The Cardinal’s Son
"The Cardinal was found stabbed through his belly, in his bed, and the knife under low pallet of his servant, not yet cleaned. That is the proof." Hissed the son of the man who was dead. Sixty-two was a good life for any man in these times, but Diarmuid was right. Aside from his gout and the pain of his stomach from ulcers, he was of sound body and mind. The servant had been with his master some twenty years, and the servant himself just coming to his forty-third year. He could not read nor right, and did not know he was entitled to representation. He was ignorant of courts, and thought surely he would be excommunicated before he was slaughtered. He too, feared being undone in this land, and so convinced had the household to him of his guilt he thought surely he would be danced on by Lucifer's hooves. Abdul made his mouth a thin, hard line. Aodhan could see the restlessness, and drew his sword for protection. "The servant cried out that he wanted to learn that he had been told things..and these things do not sit well in the mind! The father could not protect himself..the dram makes one heavy of limbed, slow in movement!" No doubt the dram benefited from the addition of poppy seeds, then.
"We have come, we have heard, and until your court find otherwise they should not be allowed free! The father, too, had been given leave to pay lesson to the little prince. This land shows no one his proper place, Brother. As a man of God surely you see this." already jabs were being exchanged in looks and slid of word barbs. Abdul knew enough of to know the names of filth, chyt, and other heralds from their lips a'spilling.
One who thought himself quite bold would return the little point that the prince had given him when Aodhan had pushed the man's sword back.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Before that Spaniard could breathe again Abdul cleared pulled Aodhan back and inflicted a deep lash in to the man's forearm. "Do not do that again." He said, and the man offended held his arms and his comrades began to raise a fuss. By then the watchmen were on the outskirts with the local bailiff in tow, their voices calling. "Peace, there! Pull away your weapons and make way!" But alas, it would be a fight they would indeed find. The party of Spaniards and their leader number seven men, and there were two men and one boy-child to contend with it (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was little doubt that Brother Diarmuid would have harsh words for the Black Prince later. For it had been the drawing of steel that had turned the mood foul. But it could not be helped, now. And if there was a fight to be had? Then Brother Diarmuid would follow the law -- shillelagh law. Taking his walking staff - with its filling of lead - Brother Diarmuid set about proving just how much of a soldier he was. With all the strength in his body, the Augustinian swung the shillelagh around in a great arch -- aiming for the head of the mob's leader. At best, the Spaniard would go down. At worst, he'd be sent to rest beside his father, the Cardinal. (D)
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Did he see it all to see that they poked their blades out at him, and Aodhan had drawn his to push what he thought was a cut back? But it was for later. Should he have gone with his Cousin and Kadejah, and not slipped from their party to see what would become of Abdul beside the Augustinian? Even in these situations it was hard to contend with him being a child when he was the height of a near-man, and a knight's squire to boot. Did any want to test his education in battle arts thus far? To watch the brother strike out at the leader widened his eyes. Unlike his friend, the son of the Kendrew, he had not snuck away to battle even as a messenger. While he himself had been taken, while he had seen the siege of Turas Lan under fire in the night, it was at sea. What he had endured it was always in looking over his shoulder - but this? This was before his eyes. What a terrific 'CRACK' the shillelagh made against the skull. Did it break? He would not be able to see. One of the party made no difference between age or royalty, for Aodhan bore some form of arms. He would deflect the first pair of blows come toward him, and remarkably so. It showed his sword arm would later be a force of reckoning once thin muscle became packed and bulked. For now it grew tired easily, which would be why Aodhan would take a hit against his face, and a little on his arm.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
It would have been worse yet had Abdul-Alyii not pulled his nephew back to take the low force of the hit so it would not become a forward thrust. He stopped it, and made the man stumble back. By now the guards were coming forward, and took hold of some of the seven to prevent more from coming forward..yet as the crowds surged forward and back, so shifted the battle, and it would leave the two men and boy child to contend with a remaining three men. The leader seemed to have a goose egg blossoming in his hair. The prince winced, but did not falter in his steps. "Get him away from here, Brother!" He called to Diarmuid! (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
One wondered what the Spaniards made of it, when he bellowed - in their own tongue - "The wicked cannot stand before the might of God!" The shillelagh crached out again, causing a man to howl and his sword to clatter to eart -- an obvious break showing in the man's arm. The striking head of a shillelagh normally weighed 'bout two pounds, but it was clear that the Brother's was a 'loaded stick'. There was a nod to Abdul, before he gave Aodhan a rough shove toward the guards -- and began a fighting retreat, to keep any of the blackguards from getting a swipe in at Aodhan's back. For as good as he gave, would one of the Spaniards get a strike in against him as well? (D)
The Scene Unfolding
A sword would go out against Diarmuid, and another against Abdul, but Aodhan would be spared another steel kiss. The guard would take the Prince in to themselves as they began to take the obtained away. Two more would be sent forward three guards to collect or subdue the remaining men. It was obvious of these seven who would endure the most punishment, though the leader was not cognitive to give his assent or declaration against any ideas. The son of the cardinal only murmured or cried out softly. All of them would be given attention, though from the courtesy of a cell. Here they would not be given accord to any station or recommendation heard by any head of household unless it was the assent of the Griffin, indeed, the Cardinal's son was right.
Things were very different in the realm of the Griffin than the whole of Europe. By the end of the bout Abdul had collected quite a gash against the front of his chest, but still stood in thanks to the Caldean who had been at work quelling the crowd and assisting the watch in rounding up the others, even deflecting the blows of the one fool. What of Diarmuid, how did he fare? He went over to the priest as the men were rounded up to see. Erstwhile Brycean would wait for word, Akram would hold Kadejah who was greatly unnerved as they waited by the quarter's outpost. The situation seemed not long, nor were the griffin men slow. They rounded up many but foolishness servces to quicken the movements in youth a little more than logic.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
"You, Brother,"began Abdul, "carry a large stick for a man of the Book." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
Brother Diarmuid began to smile, before he grimaced as one of the Watch's healers tended to his hand -- it had a shallow, but bloody gash on it. And despite the fact that Brother Diarmuid laughed, it was clear it caused him pain -- someone having struck him with a club. "I merely carry on the traditions of the Church fathers......" There was a grin, "We are sheperds of the faithful, which - at times - entails driving away wolves." As the Watch turned to the task of taking in hand the last of the Spaniards, Brother Diarmuid needle the Cardinal's son in the ribs. "Ah, this one draws breath still." Tsk. "When charges are put to him, include also the charge of murder." The good brother glanced at his freshly stitched hand, "....for none, not even the Cardinal's servant, knew where the murder weapon had been found." Then he rose, "Now, for an important matter: how fares the Black Prince?" (D)
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
"You are good at finding the wolves then in your valley." He winced as someone came to appraise his damage.
Watch
The men listened and nodded, "We will include this to give to the one who is investigating, Brother," said one of the watchmen, and the baliff would nod. He was not in charge of the investigation for the Cardinal's murder, but he would see the proper channels had the information. Could it be that this young man had killed his own father? So twisted the case was becoming. "We should see you two to the keeping of a physician, come, we will escort you..." Said one, while the baliff saw to his The Black Prince as Aodhan was already being sheparded up on horseback to be escorted to the watch post. "Come." Said the guards to Abdul-Alyii and Diarmuid, so that all could meet up at last.
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
When at last they came to the watchpost they were taken to a room with a long wooden table and chairs. Kadejah got up on seeing the door open to reveal them, but gasped at the wounds dealt out to all three. "Oh no!" she cried (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"They are but scratches," Brother Diarmuid said quietly. There was a slight chuckle, as he turned his eyes on the Black Prince, before looking back to Kadejah, "Do you not think that the young Prince is made all the more handsome and ruggad now?" He grinned. One did, indeed, have to wonder what Seanna would think of what had come to pass. The good brother, of course, was more concerned with whether or not the Queen would arrive. That caused him to grimce again. No mother like to see her son hurt, yet the wounds the Aodhan had? Even minor, could alter the course of nations. (D)
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
"I think that the Young Prince has had blood drawn, and his mother will go in to a rage now!" Or did Kadejah do that for her, "And loook at you both, you should have left with us! My heaven.."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Aodhan looked at Kadejah and told her, "Don't worry, they say it isn't too deep."
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Abdul looked at him, but had to say aloud "You did not draw your weapon because of anger. You did it because he was trying to cut you, no matter how small." He said this in case any doubted his judgement, for though Aodhan's steel was the first to be seen by many, it was not the first to be seen by all.
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
Brother Diarmuid nodded his head quietly, before reaching out and clasping the Black Prince's shoulder with his stitched-up hand. True, it hurt. But it was minor. He looked in to the young man's eyes, before he smiled "You fought well, Prince Aodhan. And with much bravery." He squeezed the boy's shoulder, "Your parents should be proud of you." (D)
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
The young man felt a sense of pride! He had defended himself, and others in some sense. He would now have a scar from the first battle where he drew a sword to not just defend himself, but his family. Abdul-Alyii he now began to look on as a member of his family, which was made up of so many pieces. Light and dark. Scottish, Norse, and Nubian. He was a young man who could trace himself across three lands with no qualms now that he saw it, truly, making sense. Kadejah was given leave, and tended to his face, and that of Aodhan. Because of his bond with Abdul, Akram was like a second-brother. Kadejah, a sister, and so it was alright for her to touch Aodhan, for she was not an unfamiliar man. It had been decided that they would live as family now, not as servants, in this landscape. Brycean gave a wary grin, "We shall have tae tell the Queen, m'aunt, n' the King, m'uncle." Aodhan nodded, "Aye, we will, cousin, but it will be the truth n' a good one." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was a quiet laugh from Brother Diarmuid, as he said, "Ah, my flock...." But as the conversation turned to darker matters? Brother Diarmuid was quiet for a while, before saying - in English - "....the Blue Castle entertains Spaniards, my friend. That alone is grave cause for concern." The Spaniards had never truly grown comfortable with their Morrish neighbors. Then the good brother smiled, before clasping his hands. "Now, I am somewhat disappointed. I had surely thought a fine business such as this would have a chess board...." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
Aodhan was happy that Diarmuid continued to discuss other matters. Akram took the lead to reply "The Spaniards are to me like the English, or the French, or any other of these lands. There are the good among them, and there are those we endure. Now, to chess? We have such a thing. Has your time among your own people softened your mind?" Charlemagne was said to have been given the most exquisite chess set in the entirity of the known world during his time, among the menagerie of other things he kept including exotic persons and animals. As Akram took up the chess set to establish the game,
Kadejah-Akilah bint Badra al-Mazin
Kadejah would go on to attend other work, but not before seeing the other guests served. With her encouragement, the princes of Scotland would come closer to the priest in order to watch the game unfold, and as she said "To learn, it may pass your visits faster."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Yet the uncle and nephew would speak, and Aodhan for the first time opened to Abdul on any subject what so ever. True, they had spoken for some time, but for some reason he found it easier to connect with the people who were not of his blood than the one that was. He shared with Abdul the talk of how the Spaniard had spoken out against the way the war had gone when Spain attacked England, but would in the interest of peace and his duty to Christ, make all be done with. It was him who helped to hammer out what was called accords now in place, but Aodhan called them merely the way that Spain and England were at peace, and though the ship was now preparing to sail back to Spain.. the Cardinal would not be there. Oh there was even arguments of having him buried here in so much 'heathen ground' so for a point of interest he was taken to Scotland itself, to an enclave of brothers to be blessed, put in state, and buried there after with all the ritual according his station in the church. It's spilling in to the streets was not common discussion, but among the court and church it was a matter of silence broken often in whisper. It frightened him, and made him worry. Some had said the killing came at the hand of one of the Cardinal's african servants, or so it was called until they left the water and he would be a slave again. Some said the customs of the land they observed during the stay polluted the servants mind (D)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"I merely ask," the good brother said, "for it had not yet been produced." Once the chess set had appeared, Brother Diarmuiod laughed quietly. "It may have... it may have...For I am now more accustomed to the rules used here, than those of Arbia...." As the game wore on, Brother Diarmuid was content to allow the convresation to flow around him. For while he had much knowledge on what had happened, he could not share it -- it being only for the ears of Claramae, the secret masters of the Ebon Talon, and - perhaps - a High Sheriff or Bailif when the matter had been settled. So, instead, he focused on his chess game. How long would he and Akram play? Would they play long past the time that the Black Prince was due to return to the castle, would they play into the late evening when they would be free to enjoy the hooka? The only comment that Brother Diarmuid made was a quiet, "Truly? I had thought the currnt rumor was that it was another Spaniard." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
It was decided that the Augustinian and al-Hadin would play chess. Permission was granted for the use of the name Akram to be freely used on his tongue. While he thought it rude that custom was used against them, sealing them to the sacred ritual of hospitality when before the Queen? He had to admit that it was quite clever! The beautiful pieces of carved rosewood marked it as not a bejeweled, king's set, but still a possession worth having. It marked that he, Akram, had been given much and was willing to share with the company he kept. "Which color will you play?" The rosewood that had to serve for the light pieces had been left out in the sun to be bleached by the light, whilst the dark end held its natural color. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"Hmm," Said the Augustinian. While he had learned many valuable lesson in his life. The first was that, in chess and life, no decision was to be rushed. After careful consideration, the Augustinian said, "I shall choose the army of dark rosewood." there was a light smile. It suited him. "Are we to play by the rules of your homeland? If so, I caution that it may appear an easy victory at the outset -- it has been some time since I have played by them." There was a broad smile, "But I am confident that I shall claim the advantage after that." After their pieces had been arranged, he would recline amongst the pillows. What was the second important he always kept in mind? Why, it was simple: Never follow a Cistercian up a ladder! (D)
Akram al-Hadin
"Oh, is this so! You are very confident my friend. Or should I accuse you of vanity? Allah says that for all of his people of the book, it is a sin." He smiled in a casual way while his eyes sparkled with curiosity for the game's onset. This would leave Akram to play the lighter shade, which was in a way quite humerous. Either men played the oppposite of flesh so the opposite of themselves, maybe holding to some inner natures unvoiced in the present conversation. As the pieces were established and the first move made by the correct color, Akram felt at piece. The visitors were watching the game, leaning in on their stools. It was not a sport of physicality as arm wrestling or grappling, but one of the mind that suited the quiet Caldean and the ever-learning Brycean. Aodhan still remained with his Uncle, discussing the ways of the world. Abdul told him, "If you give creedance to them, it gives them power. To do nothing is to see everything. You will one day be in charge of many things. Only lift your hand when the action is clear unless it is utmost you do otherwise, son of my brother." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
As the pawns marched forward, as the knights readied thier mounts, Brother Diarmuid would chuckle softly. "Mm, I would like to think it is so....." And as the game began in earnest, Brother Diarmuid would indeed appear to have lost the advantage. And yet, as befitting their first encounter, Brother Diarmuid revealed a devious and clever mind. While Akram had claimed a few pieces, it was clear that they had not been sacrificed lightly -- each pawn that Akram had claimed, had allowed Brother Diarmuid to refresh himself on the Arabic rules of chess. It was also revealed that Brother Diarmuid as an avid player, taking great care and deliberation in his moves. (D)
Akram al-Hadin
Akram had learned to play late in his life, and from Abdul some time after each had come to freedom. While purchasing the freedom of others, he taught his friend how to maneuver each piece, when to sacrifice a knight for the good of the vizier, the piece the Europeans now called a Bishop. When to move the Queen out for the protection of the King. The priest was not lackluster! "I admit," said the man "You are quite good." The princes of Scotland nodded at the game commencing. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
The Augustinian would incline his head softly, "I thank you for the compliment.... And you, yourself, are quiet skilled." Another thus was another piece claimed, as the game continued. There was a smile, "I admit that chess is amongst my vices....." Clearly, good food and good booze were amongst the first two - given that the Augustian had the apperance of a well-fed man. Still, underneath it was muscle. And besides, he needed the calories to priest. "There is no doubting that chess sharpens the mind -- for I learned that well from the Abbot. Once, we engaged in a game that lasted three days..." (D)
Akram al-Hadin
"Thank you, holy man. I try. I practice often with al-Mazin, al-Hadin has not yet bested him but it is close. Now, my sister is humble. She reminds me of the tale of Sheherizade. A very intelligent woman enough to stay alive, but only revealing it by nightfall." Or beyond the eye of the public, reflected to mirror only in those that knew her best. More moves were made, and the priest had the advantage but Akram took another when one of his viziers advanced to claim the priest's side castle. How did it come so far? "This is not too terrible a vice. I have not many. My faith does not call for the consumption of your brother's beers." So he could not claim to drink, " and we give often to the poor " so he held fast to a pillar of the faith. (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was a slight cant of his head. That was interesting information, but it was something that Brother Diarmuid kept to himself. There was a quiet nod of his head, "It is indeed a very noble thing to do." One of Akram's knights was claimed by a pawn. A light smile, "Least you think ill of my visits to the castle, I continue to minister to Christ's flock....." Given that Christ was numbered a great man in the Moslem faith, Akram would likely know of who Christ had ministered too. One wondered, was that when Akram would begin to feel as though he had met Brother Diarmuid once before? (D)
Akram al-Hadin & Kadejah witnessing the scene unfolding:
Christ was given to be one of the prophets, and Mary was given esteem as the mother of one. He was not ignorant of this, nor did he care to say which faith held greater truck in the eyes of the Almighty. He knew that under those who had taught him the faith of Allah as given to him on the rock by the archangel Gabriel, he had been tethered by a slave's yoke. He knew that his fellow men were tethered to Christian yokes, and that in the seas surrounding his home a trade was made for Christian slaves. So went the relations among the People of the Book .Akram let out a sound of great suprise to see his pawn fall. Now a new stragety would need to be considered. "It is what you are supposed to do," he said with a soft tone. He had never seen a priest do any differently. Even the ones who were with their faults never gave away ceremony.
Kadejah kept the water warm for more drinks, trays filled with food, and continued on her business as the warmest ghost that ever lived. Yet it would be her eyes, not those of the men, who noticed what ruckus was being raised in their quarter of town. Saying nothing, she slipped to the side door to watch further. It seemed some men of Spanish origin (indeed, they were of the ambassadors household, for the livery said it thus) were harrassing men of dark skin, calling them "Murderer, murderer! You killed a man of God. One of you taught his slave to do it!" They jeered, they spat at the soles of their shoes. The women were being pushed inside the safety of homes or further inside of stalls. Second to see this would be Aodhan, who had gone toward the back to fufill a request of Abdul's, for a particular book, and had given the young man a way to notice it for he could not fathom arabic lettering. He saw Kadejah by the door, and asked her, "What do you look at?" and the woman replied, "A sad downfall, young Prince. It is not for your eyes." She did not think that the powerful mother of this boy would want him where there was danger, and would blame them if any ill had come to him, just as she turned Aodhan around, the words began to lift. "A black country, ruled by heathens. soon it will be overrun with more heathens, and with more Moors! And the darker the flesh, the less they even know of any God!”
This phrase would stick hard in the Scottish heart. It was true, wasn't it. The darker and the deeper one went beyond even the Christian kingdoms of Africa, surely, there would be tribes who had not given up their ways to the Catholics, to the Moslim, or even the Eastern-Orthodoxy. The young man chewed his lip, and Kadejah held him to her, and turned him around. Just as they were to go within "See, that one stares. THAT one knows it. You can see beyond her veil...black as tar. black as bowels."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen:
Aodhan would not have it! He instead now pulled upon Kadejah, and strong for is age, easily changed their place. "The future, the future there! The BLACK King of the Scotts, the Black Prince of Skye, Little Lucifer." These calls were conducted in Spanish, and they thought the boy would be ignorant.
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Aodhan was educated to befit his station, and had a cunning way of words; he delved deeply in to his Latin above all other things, followed by his French and Spanish..and of the second and third, French was his stronger because of the Norman influence that held so strong in Gaelic courts, but over the winter, with a thirst for knowledge? Spanish began to topple his French in supremacy, and his gentility as he aged was being eclipsed in times such as this by his family's infamous temper (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
It had been a sound on the edge of hearing, much akin to the buzzing of insects, and only know was fully realized. There was a heavy sigh from Brother Diarmuid, as the cries of the street was brought to bear upon this small cafe. There was a slow shake of his head, as sad eyes found Akrams. "It feels me with sorrow, friend, but I fear our contest will not be settled this night -- and needs wait til the morrow." With a bit of a grunt, the Augustinian moved himself from the floor. He would study the chess board, noting where the pieces were. Then he would turn toward to the Black Prince's fair-complected companions. "One of you, quickly, needs to go for either Castellian or the High Sheriff. Tell them to bring ample men, for I fear the mood shall turn bad." To Akram he asked, "Do you have a backway out?" If so, the volunteer was told to go that way. After a moment, he said, "I shall do what I can." And the Augustinian would retrieve his walking stick, hefting the weight of it. Then as boldy as a man of the cloth could, he walked out the front. Used to addressing his flock from the pulpit, from shouting in din of battle, his voice carried as bellowed at the crowd, "Quiet, I will have quiet from you!" To silence them, it seemed as though the Augustianian channeled forth Moses -- for he raised his empty hand, and his walking stick and gestured for them to calm. "What has riled you so? Is this how you would conduct yourselves, in memory of the Prince of Rome -- now gone to be with his Most Holy Father? If so, then be ashamed! This is a time to reflect upon the works of the Cardinal, to honor him by his teachings. And by maintaing peace amongst ourselves and our brothers." (D)
Princes Caldean and Brycean Aberdeen
The Black Princes's fair companions were the golden and dark headed Princes of Skye, of Scotland, both. Caldean turned to see the world as Diarmuid saw it. "I am going with you, Brother." It was not an offer, but a statement of a fact not to be refuted. He turned to his nephew "Get your cousin, the woman, and go. Take them out of the quarter if you must, and find a place where the men form their watch. It will be safer." Brycean beckoned for Abdul to come, for Akram was already moving to claim their weapons.
Akram al-Hadin
"My lord, my brother, come." He pulled on him, but instead Abdul would say.
Adul-Alyii al-Mazin
"Go with him, and keep Kadejah safe. I will not leave them." It was as blatant as that, as the obvious marks on their face never to be erased.
The Cardinal’s Son
With no time to waste the party began to move out of the back, whilst in the front Diarmuid managed to calm them for a small spell. One man breathed hard through his nostrils, this man who led them had been the Cardinals son. The knowledge was kept quiet but it was not an alien thing. How many brothers of the church turned their children either to other family members or kept them in their own elite households if it could be afforded? More than one could count. "His Grace Cardinal Caruna was a most holy man, and negotiated a great peace. Why was he murdered like a dog? You tell me this. And by his servant, who knew no dislike of his place..or questioned it not, until here was come with its strange customs." He sneered before looking out at the young man and Kadejah. "They are given freedoms that will see this throne torn down, and were it not for how close they would be to others of good Christian way, I would let it alone." There it was, the long and short of it."I am told his grace's servant spoke with a man in this business. Where are they? We have leave to speak with him, to clear our grievance, that is a custom, priest."
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
Kadejah had now disappeared from the doorway..but was made to call back to Abdul.. "do not let them hurt him!" For she feared grave things if it came to pass. Better former slaves should wear marks than a royal born boy.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
As Prince Brycean led the way with Akram from the back, Abdul came to stand beside his nephew, sword on his hip. "Who has cause to come to me?" He asked (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
To the Cardinal's son, the Brother Diarmuid called in response, "Certain, are you, that the Cardinal's servant is to blame? Then you have proof clad in iron! Share it now, with all of us, so we may be enlightend. Share it, too, with the Castellian -- when he arrives." Although lightly said, it was a subtle threat. A reminder to the mob that in Skye, law still reigned -- and the law would not stand for this breech of peace. There was again a gesture of quiet from Brother Diarmuid, before patiently turning his eyes on the Cardinal's son. If the crowd had quieted any, it allowed the Cardinal's son to make his claim -- and to have the validty of his words juged. "It is true that grievances are to be aired and settled -- in court of law!" Brother Diarmuid quietly swept his walking stick in a half-arch, to encompass the crowd. "The Castellian even now looks into this affair, as does the High Sheriff. It is for the courts, now." (D)
The Cardinal’s Son
"Not for the courts under man, but for those kept by a King, and by those in the eyes of God. It is a disgrace, brother, that the father is buried in this soil instead of in his. Where that I could find some way to keep him from the soil where men are still burnt on pagan pyres." This custom so prolific still was disgusting to him, there dead did not all go to the earth as the Church decreed? He feared his father's soul in Purgatory! He continued on "You are not a soldier, so you do not order us, sir." It was so, he had not an outward authority for it, and when he saw Abdul he said. "They say the servant spoke to you, and his madness stems from some custom or word you said, that made him rise against his master! His hand now was on Aodhan's shoulder, "And that one...why is he in your company, This Prince?"
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Abdul looked to Diarmuid, "Thank you, for bringing calm. I will speak to this one. There is no need for the keepers of your peace," or so it was hoped, but his face showed nothing to the contrary. The men of Spain settled, but were still tense. They allowed the leader of their party forward, and so Abdul, too, came forward. Aodhan would go to settle next to the priest as his uncle's hand led him that way. For once, he would not rise to protest the man's authority or make scene to stand beside what could turn dangerous. "It was only to give the servant a medicinal drought, for it was said your cardinal preferred Moor's medicine, and some of this was brought to me. I am given charter to sell and trade such goods, though do not make my business as a medic. The goods were pure, and good knowledge was given so." In truth the dram was looked over by Kadejah. Being that was not alien to testing for purity or spoiled goods, and said it was fine, he believed her. "It is common, and sold by many. It is to bring calm, and to numb pain. One is to only have a little. This was all." The Spanish contingent talked between themselves, one saying. "The servant fetched many remedies for his master, the Cardinal suffered of gout, and of pains in his belly. He had many drams in Spain from his own physician." The leader huffed.
The Cardinal’s Son
"It still does not explain the poison of his mind. The servant said he was told of the custom that men here are paid for their work, there are no masters and slaves!" Abdul nodded, "This is so, but I told him only as this is what I have heard, what I have seen. I poisoned his mind not." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
The good brother canted his head. Not a soldier? Fah, many forgot that the Hospitallers were a knightly order. A lesson, he feared, that some of the crowd would soon learn. "It is indeed a tragedy that the Cardinal should come to rest in any soil, for he was not yet in his prime." The Cardinal had been sixty-two. "Let us meet on the morrow, then, with the High Sheriff and your self -- for surely, there can be no harm in allowing the Cardinal home for his eternal rest." And Brother Diarmuid would quiet, letting Abdul have his say. To Aodhan, he said softly, "Be at the ready." There was no telling how a crowd might turn. As the crowd murmured about the medical dram, Brother Diarmuid calmly asked, "Certain are you that the servant committed the deed you accuse him off? I have, thus far, heard only of him a completing an errand for his master. And of the desire to see himself freed, which surely is not a sin..... Lay bare your proof of this foul dead, before us all. Let us share your enlightenment." (D)
The Cardinal’s Son
"The Cardinal was found stabbed through his belly, in his bed, and the knife under low pallet of his servant, not yet cleaned. That is the proof." Hissed the son of the man who was dead. Sixty-two was a good life for any man in these times, but Diarmuid was right. Aside from his gout and the pain of his stomach from ulcers, he was of sound body and mind. The servant had been with his master some twenty years, and the servant himself just coming to his forty-third year. He could not read nor right, and did not know he was entitled to representation. He was ignorant of courts, and thought surely he would be excommunicated before he was slaughtered. He too, feared being undone in this land, and so convinced had the household to him of his guilt he thought surely he would be danced on by Lucifer's hooves. Abdul made his mouth a thin, hard line. Aodhan could see the restlessness, and drew his sword for protection. "The servant cried out that he wanted to learn that he had been told things..and these things do not sit well in the mind! The father could not protect himself..the dram makes one heavy of limbed, slow in movement!" No doubt the dram benefited from the addition of poppy seeds, then.
"We have come, we have heard, and until your court find otherwise they should not be allowed free! The father, too, had been given leave to pay lesson to the little prince. This land shows no one his proper place, Brother. As a man of God surely you see this." already jabs were being exchanged in looks and slid of word barbs. Abdul knew enough of to know the names of filth, chyt, and other heralds from their lips a'spilling.
One who thought himself quite bold would return the little point that the prince had given him when Aodhan had pushed the man's sword back.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Before that Spaniard could breathe again Abdul cleared pulled Aodhan back and inflicted a deep lash in to the man's forearm. "Do not do that again." He said, and the man offended held his arms and his comrades began to raise a fuss. By then the watchmen were on the outskirts with the local bailiff in tow, their voices calling. "Peace, there! Pull away your weapons and make way!" But alas, it would be a fight they would indeed find. The party of Spaniards and their leader number seven men, and there were two men and one boy-child to contend with it (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
There was little doubt that Brother Diarmuid would have harsh words for the Black Prince later. For it had been the drawing of steel that had turned the mood foul. But it could not be helped, now. And if there was a fight to be had? Then Brother Diarmuid would follow the law -- shillelagh law. Taking his walking staff - with its filling of lead - Brother Diarmuid set about proving just how much of a soldier he was. With all the strength in his body, the Augustinian swung the shillelagh around in a great arch -- aiming for the head of the mob's leader. At best, the Spaniard would go down. At worst, he'd be sent to rest beside his father, the Cardinal. (D)
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Did he see it all to see that they poked their blades out at him, and Aodhan had drawn his to push what he thought was a cut back? But it was for later. Should he have gone with his Cousin and Kadejah, and not slipped from their party to see what would become of Abdul beside the Augustinian? Even in these situations it was hard to contend with him being a child when he was the height of a near-man, and a knight's squire to boot. Did any want to test his education in battle arts thus far? To watch the brother strike out at the leader widened his eyes. Unlike his friend, the son of the Kendrew, he had not snuck away to battle even as a messenger. While he himself had been taken, while he had seen the siege of Turas Lan under fire in the night, it was at sea. What he had endured it was always in looking over his shoulder - but this? This was before his eyes. What a terrific 'CRACK' the shillelagh made against the skull. Did it break? He would not be able to see. One of the party made no difference between age or royalty, for Aodhan bore some form of arms. He would deflect the first pair of blows come toward him, and remarkably so. It showed his sword arm would later be a force of reckoning once thin muscle became packed and bulked. For now it grew tired easily, which would be why Aodhan would take a hit against his face, and a little on his arm.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
It would have been worse yet had Abdul-Alyii not pulled his nephew back to take the low force of the hit so it would not become a forward thrust. He stopped it, and made the man stumble back. By now the guards were coming forward, and took hold of some of the seven to prevent more from coming forward..yet as the crowds surged forward and back, so shifted the battle, and it would leave the two men and boy child to contend with a remaining three men. The leader seemed to have a goose egg blossoming in his hair. The prince winced, but did not falter in his steps. "Get him away from here, Brother!" He called to Diarmuid! (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
One wondered what the Spaniards made of it, when he bellowed - in their own tongue - "The wicked cannot stand before the might of God!" The shillelagh crached out again, causing a man to howl and his sword to clatter to eart -- an obvious break showing in the man's arm. The striking head of a shillelagh normally weighed 'bout two pounds, but it was clear that the Brother's was a 'loaded stick'. There was a nod to Abdul, before he gave Aodhan a rough shove toward the guards -- and began a fighting retreat, to keep any of the blackguards from getting a swipe in at Aodhan's back. For as good as he gave, would one of the Spaniards get a strike in against him as well? (D)
The Scene Unfolding
A sword would go out against Diarmuid, and another against Abdul, but Aodhan would be spared another steel kiss. The guard would take the Prince in to themselves as they began to take the obtained away. Two more would be sent forward three guards to collect or subdue the remaining men. It was obvious of these seven who would endure the most punishment, though the leader was not cognitive to give his assent or declaration against any ideas. The son of the cardinal only murmured or cried out softly. All of them would be given attention, though from the courtesy of a cell. Here they would not be given accord to any station or recommendation heard by any head of household unless it was the assent of the Griffin, indeed, the Cardinal's son was right.
Things were very different in the realm of the Griffin than the whole of Europe. By the end of the bout Abdul had collected quite a gash against the front of his chest, but still stood in thanks to the Caldean who had been at work quelling the crowd and assisting the watch in rounding up the others, even deflecting the blows of the one fool. What of Diarmuid, how did he fare? He went over to the priest as the men were rounded up to see. Erstwhile Brycean would wait for word, Akram would hold Kadejah who was greatly unnerved as they waited by the quarter's outpost. The situation seemed not long, nor were the griffin men slow. They rounded up many but foolishness servces to quicken the movements in youth a little more than logic.
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
"You, Brother,"began Abdul, "carry a large stick for a man of the Book." (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
Brother Diarmuid began to smile, before he grimaced as one of the Watch's healers tended to his hand -- it had a shallow, but bloody gash on it. And despite the fact that Brother Diarmuid laughed, it was clear it caused him pain -- someone having struck him with a club. "I merely carry on the traditions of the Church fathers......" There was a grin, "We are sheperds of the faithful, which - at times - entails driving away wolves." As the Watch turned to the task of taking in hand the last of the Spaniards, Brother Diarmuid needle the Cardinal's son in the ribs. "Ah, this one draws breath still." Tsk. "When charges are put to him, include also the charge of murder." The good brother glanced at his freshly stitched hand, "....for none, not even the Cardinal's servant, knew where the murder weapon had been found." Then he rose, "Now, for an important matter: how fares the Black Prince?" (D)
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
"You are good at finding the wolves then in your valley." He winced as someone came to appraise his damage.
Watch
The men listened and nodded, "We will include this to give to the one who is investigating, Brother," said one of the watchmen, and the baliff would nod. He was not in charge of the investigation for the Cardinal's murder, but he would see the proper channels had the information. Could it be that this young man had killed his own father? So twisted the case was becoming. "We should see you two to the keeping of a physician, come, we will escort you..." Said one, while the baliff saw to his The Black Prince as Aodhan was already being sheparded up on horseback to be escorted to the watch post. "Come." Said the guards to Abdul-Alyii and Diarmuid, so that all could meet up at last.
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
When at last they came to the watchpost they were taken to a room with a long wooden table and chairs. Kadejah got up on seeing the door open to reveal them, but gasped at the wounds dealt out to all three. "Oh no!" she cried (d)
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
"They are but scratches," Brother Diarmuid said quietly. There was a slight chuckle, as he turned his eyes on the Black Prince, before looking back to Kadejah, "Do you not think that the young Prince is made all the more handsome and ruggad now?" He grinned. One did, indeed, have to wonder what Seanna would think of what had come to pass. The good brother, of course, was more concerned with whether or not the Queen would arrive. That caused him to grimce again. No mother like to see her son hurt, yet the wounds the Aodhan had? Even minor, could alter the course of nations. (D)
Kadejah-Akilah al-Hadin
"I think that the Young Prince has had blood drawn, and his mother will go in to a rage now!" Or did Kadejah do that for her, "And loook at you both, you should have left with us! My heaven.."
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
Aodhan looked at Kadejah and told her, "Don't worry, they say it isn't too deep."
Abdul-Alyii al-Mazin
Abdul looked at him, but had to say aloud "You did not draw your weapon because of anger. You did it because he was trying to cut you, no matter how small." He said this in case any doubted his judgement, for though Aodhan's steel was the first to be seen by many, it was not the first to be seen by all.
Brother Diarmuid O’Corrain
Brother Diarmuid nodded his head quietly, before reaching out and clasping the Black Prince's shoulder with his stitched-up hand. True, it hurt. But it was minor. He looked in to the young man's eyes, before he smiled "You fought well, Prince Aodhan. And with much bravery." He squeezed the boy's shoulder, "Your parents should be proud of you." (D)
Prince Aodhan Aberdeen
The young man felt a sense of pride! He had defended himself, and others in some sense. He would now have a scar from the first battle where he drew a sword to not just defend himself, but his family. Abdul-Alyii he now began to look on as a member of his family, which was made up of so many pieces. Light and dark. Scottish, Norse, and Nubian. He was a young man who could trace himself across three lands with no qualms now that he saw it, truly, making sense. Kadejah was given leave, and tended to his face, and that of Aodhan. Because of his bond with Abdul, Akram was like a second-brother. Kadejah, a sister, and so it was alright for her to touch Aodhan, for she was not an unfamiliar man. It had been decided that they would live as family now, not as servants, in this landscape. Brycean gave a wary grin, "We shall have tae tell the Queen, m'aunt, n' the King, m'uncle." Aodhan nodded, "Aye, we will, cousin, but it will be the truth n' a good one." (d)