The Royal Court

[The Mad Skylord]

A letter arrives for the King, penned by the hand of Mortain himself.

Edgar of Wessex,
I hope you are well in this new year, regardless of our differences.

I will make this message brief. I will not trade one member of my family for another. My niece will not be handed over to you for any price, to be wed and taken at your convenience.

My son is but a boy, with no hand in any dealings we will ever have. Thus, I do not appreciate your tenants-in-chief writing to me, threatening harm to come upon my child should I not submit to their will.

I warn you and your servant, Li Bagaerd, now, Edgar. Should any harm come to my child - then you must pray God has mercy upon your immortal soul, for I will have no mercy upon your mortal vessel.

Signed,
Robert de Conteville, Comte de Mortain

-----

Godwin Haroldson let out a cheer as he followed behind Edgar, eager for the sight of smell of a boar. Boars were nasty creatures, and the young son of Harold kept a close ear for the sound of grunting or baying - or even, heaven forbid, pained squeeling.

[Lucius Malfoy]

It had taken some time to journey to Scotland, then back down, but towards the fall of that year, a letter was sent to King Edgar, notifying the King of the imminent arrival of his mother, Lady Agatha, and the Lady Cristina, his sister. After entertaining the pair in Bamburgh for a couple days before the party ventured south to York, where the King was known to be awaiting his family. They entered the walls of York, escorted by a thick and suitable guard of Northumbrian Huscarls and local Thegns of Osulf. With the Earl of Bernicia was also his eldest son, Maldred, who had recently married the Lady Gunhild of Wessex, daughter of the late King Harold. Osulf planned to introduce his son to the King as, one day, Maldred would rule the North as the King's vassal.

At the steps of Edgar's manor, they all dismounted. Osulf was seen escorting the Lady Agatha towards the King as Maldred showed a similar courtesy to Lady Cristina. Osulf bows, stepping to the side as both ladies were brought before the King.

My King, I present to you your family, safely returned from Scotland. Your future brother-in-law, King Malcolm of Alba, sends his warm regards, best wishes and prays that God preserve you.

With those words said, father and son stepped aside to ensure the King could have a family moment with his mother and sister.

[Gandalfus]

He laughs, "Most marriages in Normandy were political it seems. My mother was married to my father because he needed the money from the dowry to pay off his debts. It wasn't enough though he still ended up selling the families land and coming to England with William to make his fortune." His father had had not potential in Normandy for rising up. He was a landed night who sold his land. In England he had had a fresh start.

"And look where he is now, eh?"

In England, Gerold li Bageard had become a leading magnate. The second man in the realm behind the king.

"I doubt he worries about debts anymore. And if he does, he knows where I am."

He raised the drink into the air.

"To his health. And to your marriage."

William chuckles lightly at Edgar's remark.

I hope to go on a grand hunt soon, my King. I have spoken with Lord Bageard and we believe that, now with the conflict over, we can finally focus on Wales.

There was much land to be gained in military expeditions against the princes of Wales. New lands, wealth, and other benefits that could come from it.

If you feel your sword arm itches for battle, Sire, you are more than welcomed to join us.

William then looks at Edgar, noticing the outfit he was in.

Seems though you are ahead of me on the hunting aspect. Did you capture any good game?

"I would, but my eyes are firmly on the south."

Replied the King, running a hand through his fair hair. Still, it wouldn't do to neglect Wales entirely. Perhaps he could have the Welsh chiefs submit to him, as Harold and his uncle did.

"Rabbits. Deer. Enough to feed us for a week. You should stay and eat with us."

Edgar very much enjoyed the hunt. It was vastly superior to ruling for entertainment. One could pretend the Kingdom's problems were not there, the only pressing issue being chasing the prey before you.

Godwin Haroldson let out a cheer as he followed behind Edgar, eager for the sight of smell of a boar. Boars were nasty creatures, and the young son of Harold kept a close ear for the sound of grunting or baying - or even, heaven forbid, pained squeeling.

The first prey they found were rabbits - the forest was crawling with them - and so many of the hunters made a game of how many rabbits they could catch and tie to their belts. Then came the chasing of deer, and soon the rabbits were forgotten when compared to a much bigger and meatier game. The fortunate ones took down a stag or two, and made trophies of the antlers.

The greatest of their prey was yet to reveal itself. Godwin and Edgar would hear the barking of the hunting hounds, and a painful yelp. They found one lying there, pitifully whining, its body ripped almost in two. The boar had tried to make its escape, and as the houndmaster put the dog out of its misery the King's men gave pursuit. Arrows seemed to not effect it at all, but the sharp spears certainly would, if handled with care.

"There is your boar, Godwin!"

The King roared, enthusiastically. Riders were coming in on it from all sides, and soon it would be cornered.

It had taken some time to journey to Scotland, then back down, but towards the fall of that year, a letter was sent to King Edgar, notifying the King of the imminent arrival of his mother, Lady Agatha, and the Lady Cristina, his sister. After entertaining the pair in Bamburgh for a couple days before the party ventured south to York, where the King was known to be awaiting his family. They entered the walls of York, escorted by a thick and suitable guard of Northumbrian Huscarls and local Thegns of Osulf. With the Earl of Bernicia was also his eldest son, Maldred, who had recently married the Lady Gunhild of Wessex, daughter of the late King Harold. Osulf planned to introduce his son to the King as, one day, Maldred would rule the North as the King's vassal.

At the steps of Edgar's manor, they all dismounted. Osulf was seen escorting the Lady Agatha towards the King as Maldred showed a similar courtesy to Lady Cristina. Osulf bows, stepping to the side as both ladies were brought before the King.

My King, I present to you your family, safely returned from Scotland. Your future brother-in-law, King Malcolm of Alba, sends his warm regards, best wishes and prays that God preserve you.

With those words said, father and son stepped aside to ensure the King could have a family moment with his mother and sister.

Edgar embraced his mother and sister, the emotions visible - Cristina even showed a few tears, though the lady Agatha, hardened by the years as she was, had better control over herself. Edgar's mother spoke to him in a strange tongue, and he apparently was able to understand, responding with laughter and a quip of his own. After their reunion, the King turned to Bamburgh.

"God bless you, Osulf. We must celebrate!"

The King certainly looked pleased. He'd already made arrangements for a great feast to be held in the city after being informed in advance that Osulf would soon arrive with his family.

[Trot]

Mar smiles at that, "He is doing far better here then he ever good have done in Normandy, as am I." There were many benefits to being friends with the King of England. As was he had control of as much land as most Barons even if it all was not his in name, and he was heir to one of the richest Earldoms in the realm. "But how about you Edgar how have you found kingship?"


--------------------------------------




Some time later Gerold li Bageard returns from Paris with news for the King. He is accompanied by the lovely Emma de Francia.

[Lucius Malfoy]

"I would, but my eyes are firmly on the south."

Replied the King, running a hand through his fair hair. Still, it wouldn't do to neglect Wales entirely. Perhaps he could have the Welsh chiefs submit to him, as Harold and his uncle did.

"Rabbits. Deer. Enough to feed us for a week. You should stay and eat with us."

Edgar very much enjoyed the hunt. It was vastly superior to ruling for entertainment. One could pretend the Kingdom's problems were not there, the only pressing issue being chasing the prey before you.

==================================

Edgar embraced his mother and sister, the emotions visible - Cristina even showed a few tears, though the lady Agatha, hardened by the years as she was, had better control over herself. Edgar's mother spoke to him in a strange tongue, and he apparently was able to understand, responding with laughter and a quip of his own. After their reunion, the King turned to Bamburgh.

"God bless you, Osulf. We must celebrate!"

The King certainly looked pleased. He'd already made arrangements for a great feast to be held in the city after being informed in advance that Osulf would soon arrive with his family.

Giffard
Your offer is most general, Sire. I would happily dine with you, there is much I feel we need to discuss as your royally appointed Constable.

William bows his head slightly. The experience of war had been valuable in lessons as well as reading his father's memoirs of Iberia and Normandy.

The threat of the Normans will only die once Mortain is defeated, brought in chains, and faces the justice of betraying his oath.

====================

Osulf
The Earl of Bernicia was very elated by the mood of Edgar. Reuniting with one's family would bring any monarch to tears... for in the end, family meant everything.

Indeed, Sire! Today is a joyous day! Lady Margaret is betrothed to the King of Alba and our King is reunited with his family!

The Huscarls and Thegns present all cheered loudly for their King, joining in the joy of their King. As the celebrations moved inside, Osulf brings his son forward to meet Edgar, who was the same age as the King.

Sire, I would like to introduce to you my son, Maldred Osulfsson. He is the proud husband of Lady Gunhild of Wessex and the future heir of Bernicia.

Maldred bows to Edgar. He looked like the younger visage of his father, save a smaller nose and lighter eyes, inherited from his mother.

I have long awaited this moment, King Edgar. I am honored to meet you.

[Gandalfus]

Mar smiles at that, "He is doing far better here then he ever good have done in Normandy, as am I." There were many benefits to being friends with the King of England. As was he had control of as much land as most Barons even if it all was not his in name, and he was heir to one of the richest Earldoms in the realm. "But how about you Edgar how have you found kingship?"


--------------------------------------

Some time later Gerold li Bageard returns from Paris with news for the King. He is accompanied by the lovely Emma de Francia.

"It is boring, mostly. There are a few benefits: I get to go hunting whenever I choose."

Edgar was only half-joking. It was a burden, at times, but ultimately it was his duty. It felt natural that he should be the king, following in the footsteps of his ancestors, and it gave him a sense of fulfilment that he had lacked in his long years as an exile.

"I am a servant of no-one. Save God."

---

They are escorted into the audience chamber, where the King waits. Emma's arrival had driven the court into a frenzy, and every nobleman worth his boots had come to Westminster to see the sister of the Frankish king. Edgar was seated upon the throne looking as regal as possible, his uncle's jewel-encrusted crown weighing down his head in place of the usual circlet. As the princess approached, he rose from his seat and kissed her hand, looking awfully pleased with himself. They exchanged some pleasantries in her native tongue. Then, the King turned to Gerold.

"A fine woman you've brought to be my bride, Lord Gloucester. I do not see why I should delay any further in being married."

He managed to restrain himself from showing too much excitement.

Giffard
Your offer is most general, Sire. I would happily dine with you, there is much I feel we need to discuss as your royally appointed Constable.

William bows his head slightly. The experience of war had been valuable in lessons as well as reading his father's memoirs of Iberia and Normandy.

The threat of the Normans will only die once Mortain is defeated, brought in chains, and faces the justice of betraying his oath.

====================

Osulf
The Earl of Bernicia was very elated by the mood of Edgar. Reuniting with one's family would bring any monarch to tears... for in the end, family meant everything.

Indeed, Sire! Today is a joyous day! Lady Margaret is betrothed to the King of Alba and our King is reunited with his family!

The Huscarls and Thegns present all cheered loudly for their King, joining in the joy of their King. As the celebrations moved inside, Osulf brings his son forward to meet Edgar, who was the same age as the King.

Sire, I would like to introduce to you my son, Maldred Osulfsson. He is the proud husband of Lady Gunhild of Wessex and the future heir of Bernicia.

Maldred bows to Edgar. He looked like the younger visage of his father, save a smaller nose and lighter eyes, inherited from his mother.

I have long awaited this moment, King Edgar. I am honored to meet you.

"Mortain's son, nephew , and brother are all in my power. If he is as wise as he thinks he is, he won't dare to attack me."

Edgar replied, proudly. He gestured for Giffard to follow him as he made his way towards the table that was being prepared in the next chamber.

"God will punish him enough, I hope. If not, I will gladly do the honour."

---

"Maldred should join my household. What say you, Osulf?"

Enquired the King. The royal party was making their way back inside the townhouse to partake in the food and drink that the King's servants had laid out.

[Trot]

Mar nods he had been enjoying the hunting on his lands as well. "We will see England prosper my friend." His father had followed William once, but Mar had never cared for William. As far as he was concerned Edgar was King he had no ties to William's kin. "We must go hunting together some time it has been to long."

-----------------

"King Edgar meet the Princess Emma de Francia," He began gesturing to the young woman. "The marriage will occur as soon as her brother crosses the channel to witness it." He gave the two some time to get acquainted before he requested a private meeting with the king. When they were away from the other nobles William started on his other bit of news. "I have also informed King Phillip of the survival of Robert Corthose. He is prepared to support Corthoses claim to Normandy supposing the young man acknowledges him as his rightful liege. I believe he hopes to see the duchy of Normandy brought back in line. If we can convince Robert to go along with this plan we can publicly proclaim him the Duke of Normandy with King Philips support undermining Mortain's position and Richard's claim."

[Lucius Malfoy]

"Mortain's son, nephew , and brother are all in my power. If he is as wise as he thinks he is, he won't dare to attack me."

Edgar replied, proudly. He gestured for Giffard to follow him as he made his way towards the table that was being prepared in the next chamber.

"God will punish him enough, I hope. If not, I will gladly do the honour."

---

"Maldred should join my household. What say you, Osulf?"

Enquired the King. The royal party was making their way back inside the townhouse to partake in the food and drink that the King's servants had laid out.

I would not count on wisdom from Mortain, my King. He is more reckless and lacks patience... after all, he did not obey the late William and was beaten, and captured, at Stamford Bridge.

William remembered well the fury of the Conqueror over the disobedience of his half-brother. If only Mortain had waited and listened, perhaps the Conqueror may still be alive.

With the general tax you have made, Sire, we should look to building new castles and other means to defend the realm.

The Normans were back across the Channel, but they still held their ancestral homeland. The potential was present with that thought in mind.

======================

Osulf blinks at the inquiry of the King. Even Maldred was dumstruck.

My King... you honor my family with such an offer! Maldred will gladly and diligently serve you as an appointed member of your household.

Maldred bowed his head deeply in gratitude, kneeling before the King.

It is an honor to serve you directly in such a capacity. In the name of God, I will not fail you.

Maldred was clearly enthusiastic about the chance of proving his worth to the King directly. This prospect was most beneficial, thought Osulf. As with Maldred at the King's side, it would only increase the prestige and reputation of his own family, who had connections with Waltheof and the sons of Harold by marriage.

In what capacity shall I serve you in your household, Sire?

[chesser2538]

The lame bishop kept his eyes fixed on his nephew, alive and awake. But he was in the hands of Adelin now, and there was naught Odo could do about it. Couldn't even speak to him alone.

"Blessed by god, indeed, your grace."

"Well, blessed and cursed."

William had done the same to him, so Edgar did not feel so much as a pinch of pity for his eldest son. He was simply Robert. King and count of... Nothing.

"But it is all God's will. Perhaps you should tell him what has happened. Both here and in Normandy."

Edgar looked at him, expectantly, a hint of spite in his gaze.

When the two men entered the chamber Robert was sitting up in his bed, looking around in somewhat of a dazed stupor. He had awakened feeling remarkably well rested, but with a dull soreness throughout his entire body, as though he has been sleeping in a bad position, only this was everywhere. His muscles and joints felt stiff and peculiarly he felt hair brushing the tops of his eyebrows; which was odd as he had always kept it cut short. As they approached Robert could make them out, recognizing the first as his uncle, but being unable to place the second.

Attempting to turn himself and sit on the end of the bed he nearly lost his balance as his arm gave way under the strain. After barely catching himself he settles back pushing himself against the head of the bed, grasping a post with one hand he tries again, scooting over before sliding his legs over the side of the bed.

Catching their eyes he gives a questioning look "Wha...What happened?" his voice comes out raspy and weak but his words can still be made out. "I feel...terrible," his mind seems to wander for a moment as though searching for a memory that is just out of grasp. "There was fighting, they came at us... I remember shouting, and then... nothing."

[Dirty Chai]

"You've come back to us from the dead, young lord Robert," the bishop addressed his nephew. "You're in London now."

How to tell him his father, the king, Odo's brother, was dead? Now, of all moments?

[Xion]

"Why not remain in Wales? Swear yourself to a Prince there?"

Edgar did not sound mistrustful, just genuinely curious as to why he had chosen to offer his services to himself in particular.

"I accept your service gladly, nonetheless."

"I was a vassal of King Rhiwallon, but following the battle of Mechain, my estate was razed by fleeing followers of the sons of Gruffydd who also took anything they could carry." He paused for a moment. "Figured there may be more opportunities in Lloegyr than in Wales, your majesty...and thank you."

[Gandalfus]

Mar nods he had been enjoying the hunting on his lands as well. "We will see England prosper my friend." His father had followed William once, but Mar had never cared for William. As far as he was concerned Edgar was King he had no ties to William's kin. "We must go hunting together some time it has been to long."

-----------------

"King Edgar meet the Princess Emma de Francia," He began gesturing to the young woman. "The marriage will occur as soon as her brother crosses the channel to witness it." He gave the two some time to get acquainted before he requested a private meeting with the king. When they were away from the other nobles William started on his other bit of news. "I have also informed King Phillip of the survival of Robert Corthose. He is prepared to support Corthoses claim to Normandy supposing the young man acknowledges him as his rightful liege. I believe he hopes to see the duchy of Normandy brought back in line. If we can convince Robert to go along with this plan we can publicly proclaim him the Duke of Normandy with King Philips support undermining Mortain's position and Richard's claim."

"Yes, it has. Maybe after your wedding, to celebrate."

---

"That would be wise. Splitting the support Mortain enjoys should be our chief concern."

Agreed the King. Robert's awakening had perhaps been fortuitous: Mortain was stuck in an unenviable position of having set one pretender against the other.

I would not count on wisdom from Mortain, my King. He is more reckless and lacks patience... after all, he did not obey the late William and was beaten, and captured, at Stamford Bridge.

William remembered well the fury of the Conqueror over the disobedience of his half-brother. If only Mortain had waited and listened, perhaps the Conqueror may still be alive.

With the general tax you have made, Sire, we should look to building new castles and other means to defend the realm.

The Normans were back across the Channel, but they still held their ancestral homeland. The potential was present with that thought in mind.

======================

Osulf blinks at the inquiry of the King. Even Maldred was dumstruck.

My King... you honor my family with such an offer! Maldred will gladly and diligently serve you as an appointed member of your household.

Maldred bowed his head deeply in gratitude, kneeling before the King.

It is an honor to serve you directly in such a capacity. In the name of God, I will not fail you.

Maldred was clearly enthusiastic about the chance of proving his worth to the King directly. This prospect was most beneficial, thought Osulf. As with Maldred at the King's side, it would only increase the prestige and reputation of his own family, who had connections with Waltheof and the sons of Harold by marriage.

In what capacity shall I serve you in your household, Sire?

"I have ordered castles built all along the south coast. They won't find it easy to land an army here."

Well, unless they had help. Edgar would have to keep the south loyal; somewhat difficult with Odo of Bayeux on his doorstep.

----

"Simply being one of my sworn men shall be enough. Rise."

The Normans called it a comitatus. He supposed that Housecarl would be the English equivalent. Maldred would join the group of companions and bodyguards directly under the King's direction.

"Come, let us eat. I am starving!"

When the two men entered the chamber Robert was sitting up in his bed, looking around in somewhat of a dazed stupor. He had awakened feeling remarkably well rested, but with a dull soreness throughout his entire body, as though he has been sleeping in a bad position, only this was everywhere. His muscles and joints felt stiff and peculiarly he felt hair brushing the tops of his eyebrows; which was odd as he had always kept it cut short. As they approached Robert could make them out, recognizing the first as his uncle, but being unable to place the second.

Attempting to turn himself and sit on the end of the bed he nearly lost his balance as his arm gave way under the strain. After barely catching himself he settles back pushing himself against the head of the bed, grasping a post with one hand he tries again, scooting over before sliding his legs over the side of the bed.

Catching their eyes he gives a questioning look "Wha...What happened?" his voice comes out raspy and weak but his words can still be made out. "I feel...terrible," his mind seems to wander for a moment as though searching for a memory that is just out of grasp. "There was fighting, they came at us... I remember shouting, and then... nothing."

"You've come back to us from the dead, young lord Robert," the bishop addressed his nephew. "You're in London now."

How to tell him his father, the king, Odo's brother, was dead? Now, of all moments?

"In London. And... Er..."

He scratched the back of his head, and his face contorted into a grimace.

"Well, William - your father - is dead, God rest his soul, and he's gone to join the blessed King Edward in heaven."

Edgar crossed himself piously. Then, he cleared his throat.

"Quite a few things have changed whilst you were dea-sleeping."

[Trot]

Gerold nods thoughtfully and taps his finger against the armrest of his chair. "We can not let Mortain collect men and ships across the channel unopposed like William did before him. Do we have a way to know when the man masses a fleet? That would be a sign of invasion we can not ignore."

[Lucius Malfoy]

"I have ordered castles built all along the south coast. They won't find it easy to land an army here."

Well, unless they had help. Edgar would have to keep the south loyal; somewhat difficult with Odo of Bayeux on his doorstep.

----

"Simply being one of my sworn men shall be enough. Rise."

The Normans called it a comitatus. He supposed that Housecarl would be the English equivalent. Maldred would join the group of companions and bodyguards directly under the King's direction.

"Come, let us eat. I am starving!"

We must also consider the areas such as Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and to the North. Mortain may be a fool for defying you, but he will certain learn from the mistakes of the recent conflict.

There was always the chance of Mortain seeking the route of Harald Hardarda and landing up in York. However, the Saxon nobility up there held no love for Mortain, and especially not in Lincolnshire.

I hear the Saxons, who he forced to join him, betrayed him at Stamford Bridge... so I doubt he will return to Yorkshire and Lincoln. But he could always land in East Anglia.

Norman support there was strong as well as the presence of de Mowbray, who had defied King Edgar as well.

================================

Maldred thanks the King for the position among his companions and joins his father inside for the feast. Before they all sat down, however, Osulf speaks to the King on the matter of the marriage.

The dowry of your sister will be 3,500 pounds. I believe he may need the money to fight the Northmen as I recall they were attacking his lands the last I spoke with him.

Money was precious to any army; it paid the soldiers, equipment and supplies after all.

The dowry amount and the marriage seemed to have pleased him... perhaps he too viewed the great benefits of friendly southern neighbor.

[Gandalfus]

Gerold nods thoughtfully and taps his finger against the armrest of his chair. "We can not let Mortain collect men and ships across the channel unopposed like William did before him. Do we have a way to know when the man masses a fleet? That would be a sign of invasion we can not ignore."

"Not without a man in his court."

And they didn't have one for the time being. Not that massing a fleet on the coast would be much of a secret, though.

"We will do nothing, for now. He is not a threat if the defences are prepared."

We must also consider the areas such as Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and to the North. Mortain may be a fool for defying you, but he will certain learn from the mistakes of the recent conflict.

There was always the chance of Mortain seeking the route of Harald Hardarda and landing up in York. However, the Saxon nobility up there held no love for Mortain, and especially not in Lincolnshire.

I hear the Saxons, who he forced to join him, betrayed him at Stamford Bridge... so I doubt he will return to Yorkshire and Lincoln. But he could always land in East Anglia.

Norman support there was strong as well as the presence of de Mowbray, who had defied King Edgar as well.

================================

Maldred thanks the King for the position among his companions and joins his father inside for the feast. Before they all sat down, however, Osulf speaks to the King on the matter of the marriage.

The dowry of your sister will be 3,500 pounds. I believe he may need the money to fight the Northmen as I recall they were attacking his lands the last I spoke with him.

Money was precious to any army; it paid the soldiers, equipment and supplies after all.

The dowry amount and the marriage seemed to have pleased him... perhaps he too viewed the great benefits of friendly southern neighbor.

"Don't worry, Giffard. I have loyal men who will keep these regions in safe hands."

The Saxons would be key to the north's defence. East Anglia was another matter - Godwinson would be the prime candidate to defend the region.

"I do not fear him. We will sit and wait for him to make a move. And watch as it fails."

---

"He still holds Cumbria, does he not? That should not stand."

Edgar took his seat at the head of the table, and watched as a servant filled his goblet with wine.

"The dowry is fine. But it won't be paid until Cumbria is returned, and the frontier restored."

The King found it strange that this did not at all concern Osulf.

[The Mad Skylord]

"And look where he is now, eh?"

In England, Gerold li Bageard had become a leading magnate. The second man in the realm behind the king.

"I doubt he worries about debts anymore. And if he does, he knows where I am."

He raised the drink into the air.

"To his health. And to your marriage."



"I would, but my eyes are firmly on the south."

Replied the King, running a hand through his fair hair. Still, it wouldn't do to neglect Wales entirely. Perhaps he could have the Welsh chiefs submit to him, as Harold and his uncle did.

"Rabbits. Deer. Enough to feed us for a week. You should stay and eat with us."

Edgar very much enjoyed the hunt. It was vastly superior to ruling for entertainment. One could pretend the Kingdom's problems were not there, the only pressing issue being chasing the prey before you.



The first prey they found were rabbits - the forest was crawling with them - and so many of the hunters made a game of how many rabbits they could catch and tie to their belts. Then came the chasing of deer, and soon the rabbits were forgotten when compared to a much bigger and meatier game. The fortunate ones took down a stag or two, and made trophies of the antlers.

The greatest of their prey was yet to reveal itself. Godwin and Edgar would hear the barking of the hunting hounds, and a painful yelp. They found one lying there, pitifully whining, its body ripped almost in two. The boar had tried to make its escape, and as the houndmaster put the dog out of its misery the King's men gave pursuit. Arrows seemed to not effect it at all, but the sharp spears certainly would, if handled with care.

"There is your boar, Godwin!"

The King roared, enthusiastically. Riders were coming in on it from all sides, and soon it would be cornered.



Edgar embraced his mother and sister, the emotions visible - Cristina even showed a few tears, though the lady Agatha, hardened by the years as she was, had better control over herself. Edgar's mother spoke to him in a strange tongue, and he apparently was able to understand, responding with laughter and a quip of his own. After their reunion, the King turned to Bamburgh.

"God bless you, Osulf. We must celebrate!"

The King certainly looked pleased. He'd already made arrangements for a great feast to be held in the city after being informed in advance that Osulf would soon arrive with his family.

Godwin sprang from his saddle to the ground and readied his spear, waiting on the others to dismount before they closed around the violent creature. As the circle closed around the savage animal, Godwin made a stab towards the boar, trying to force it back and allow Edgar to makes his stab.

[Trot]

"His son remains sequestered in my keep in Dursley, as well. A bargaining chip if we need it." Gerold says shaking his head at the mans foolishness. "Have you decided what you will do with the boy's land now his father is in open revolt?"

[Barry Goldwater]

On April 24, the feast day of Saint Adalbert of Northumbria, Edmund Haroldson visits the capital to seek an audience with King Edgar.

[chesser2538]

"You've come back to us from the dead, young lord Robert," the bishop addressed his nephew. "You're in London now."

How to tell him his father, the king, Odo's brother, was dead? Now, of all moments?

"In London. And... Er..."

He scratched the back of his head, and his face contorted into a grimace.

"Well, William - your father - is dead, God rest his soul, and he's gone to join the blessed King Edward in heaven."

Edgar crossed himself piously. Then, he cleared his throat.

"Quite a few things have changed whilst you were dea-sleeping."

The news of his father death shocked Robert to his core, feeling his mind reeling he had to struggle to stay up as his heart began pounding in his chest. Had it not come from his uncle he would have been hard pressed to believe what he was hearing.

Feeling as though a hole had opened in his chest, Robert bent his head as tears began to wet his cheeks. He had never really been close to his father, but these past few years things had began to change. His attempts at being a strong soldier and leader had impressed his father and the man had begun to show his approval. Now he was gone...

"What...How?" his words coming out strained, layered with sadness and grief. "Tell me what happened?"

[Gandalfus]

Godwin sprang from his saddle to the ground and readied his spear, waiting on the others to dismount before they closed around the violent creature. As the circle closed around the savage animal, Godwin made a stab towards the boar, trying to force it back and allow Edgar to makes his stab.

They'd hemmed it in. The boar lashed out wildly, wounding one of Edgar's sworn men with its tusks before the probing of the others diverted its attention away. The king gave it a jab in the flanks, retreating quickly from whence he came. By now, the beast was covered in its own blood, and it was coming close to collapse. A few more well placed thrusts from Godwin and Edgar saw it defeated; it let loose a horrific squeal before simply slumping into the earth.

"A tough bastard."

The King wiped away the beading sweat on his forehead with a gloved hand.

"Still. We'll be eating well tonight, eh boys?"

"His son remains sequestered in my keep in Dursley, as well. A bargaining chip if we need it." Gerold says shaking his head at the mans foolishness. "Have you decided what you will do with the boy's land now his father is in open revolt?"

"It will stay in Mar's keeping for the time being. And good. He shall remain there, though not harmed."

Not that he thought Gerold would, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

"He rejected an exchange. Mortain wrote to me personally."

On April 24, the feast day of Saint Adalbert of Northumbria, Edmund Haroldson visits the capital to seek an audience with King Edgar.

Edmund is admitted into the King's audience chamber at Westminster.

The news of his father death shocked Robert to his core, feeling his mind reeling he had to struggle to stay up as his heart began pounding in his chest. Had it not come from his uncle he would have been hard pressed to believe what he was hearing.

Feeling as though a hole had opened in his chest, Robert bent his head as tears began to wet his cheeks. He had never really been close to his father, but these past few years things had began to change. His attempts at being a strong soldier and leader had impressed his father and the man had begun to show his approval. Now he was gone...

"What...How?" his words coming out strained, layered with sadness and grief. "Tell me what happened?"

"Killed in battle. The same one you took your wound. Victory came at a high price."

But one that Edgar was glad had been paid. In a few days he had transitioned from some lord's squire to the King of England.

"But victory nonetheless. The Earls came to a peace, and the kingdom is secure."