Command Tent of Julien de Baalun

[Lucius Malfoy]

On the far western side of the Frankish encampment, facing into the center of crowds of tents, rested the command tent of Julien de Baalun, Seigneur de Baalun et Soissons and Commander of the Christian Faithful, as some of his soldiers called their liege, much to Julien's chagrin and despite repeated denials from him personally. The tent was nothing fancy; white fabric lined with blue fleur-de-lis, opposite of the golden ones that adorned the heraldry of Philippe Capet. A banner hung at the front of the tent, implanted into the ground. The banner was of a white fabric with a thick gold upper layer, adorned with blue fluer-de-lis, the heraldry of de Baalun.

Inside the tent, facing the entry directly, was a desk with several chairs and smaller tables. To the left was a locked chest and a suit of armor on display. To the right was a station for wine, water, bread and cheese. Behind the desk rested a hung cross and two latin phrases, written on parchment. One was "acta non verba;" "Deeds, not Words." The second was "Ad maiorem Dei gloriam;" "For the greater glory of God." One other entry was seen right of the desk. Though its curtain was drawn, one could make out the shape of a bed, a possible tub and another desk.

It was known that all could approach Julien de Baalun, whether he be of noble birth or even a humble knight. For, as a royal bastard who thrived due to the bounty granted by his royal half-brother, his humble origins made him learn much and respect even more. For to him, all could speak openly and without persecution. Denials would be given with justification and all advice heeded and attentively listened to.

[Zeus Almighty]

Wynebald FitsTurstin asks for an audience to discuss the ranks of the Normans.

[Lucius Malfoy]

As Wynebald is permitted to enter, a servant briskly walks by the entry to go around the chairs and go behind the desk where Julien sat. His head was leaned back for the servant as the Frank's beard was trimmed. His gaze glances over at the Norman who entered his tent and nods quietly for Wynebald to enter and take a seat.

Who do I have the honor of addressing? Would you like some wine and bread? Got a nice vintage from Burgundy with me. Maybe some cheese? Its from Southern France, Provence region.

[Zeus Almighty]

I would accept the wine and drink but a sip. I have a taste for drink in celebration, but I come for duty first. I am Wynebald FitsTurstin. Some call me Wynebald of North Cadbury, others call me by my official title as the Baron of Cadbury. I come in the interest of Normans though I cannot say I represent them. I come at the head of nigh three thousand men. And I come to say that Duke Robert of Normandy is your man for the Normans.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Julien remains quiet for now as the quick trim was performed. Duty called and a more thorough trim would have be saved for later. Calmly, the Frank dismisses the servant who bows and walks off. Another servant appears, handing a smaller goblet to the Norman visitor. Lord Baalun ponders upon the words of Wynebald, his mind already thinking of appointing Robert Curthouse as the commander of the Norman contingent. Yet perhaps a test was better suited to learn more...

Duke Robert is a fine man for the job, yet his past infidelities may make the clergy ponder and question my choice. I had thought of maybe appointing Stephen of Aumale or even the Earl of York, Richard Neville, as the Commander of the Normans. Though Robert was once my overlord as a teenager, I am not entirely convinced of his piety. I would hate to upset the clergy, Lord Cadbury.

Julien gave no hint of his test, speaking plainly as his mind brought the words to his mouth. His eyes ventured to a speck of dirt on his desk, which he flicked off.

[Celsius]

Bishop Robert, having received the message from Lord Julien, makes the short walk to his command tent. Robert had asked a few pilgrims who were accompanying the Crusading forces to take care of the makeshift Saint Agathius tent whilst he was away.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Julien had made sure that none would disturb him once the messengers went out to speak bring forth Bishop Robert and Sir Guy. It was their last night on European soil and Lord Baalun felt such an occasion would be best spent among friends and companions. Father Robert had been a voice of guidance and piety on this journey, so far. Sir Guy had always been a loyal retainer, one who Julien viewed as a brother-in-arms and treated as an equal, not a subordinate. Father Robert was the first to arrive. The center of the tent had been cleared with three chairs set up and a small fire placed in between the trio of chairs. A few small tables had been set up with wine and water, bread and cheese, even some meats and fruits that Julien had managed to keep for himself.

Lord Baalun sat at the chair, farthest from the fire. He offers a smile to Father Robert, gesturing for him to sit.

Thought it would be nice to converse and enjoy what free time we have left before tomorrow, Father. Besides, I know you have been waiting for my long list of confessions.

Julien chuckles lightly and sips a cup of wine in his hand. He nods to jug next to Robert.

A vintage from Burgundy that your brother gave me as we left your home. Said it was your favorite.

[Zeus Almighty]

Wynebald smiled a kind smile and held his glass up before taking a sip. He looks to Julien across from him, Lord Neville is a man of esteem. He is a man who, from his accounts, is a pious man. Someone said in the assembly, we march for God. And with that, may we march for salvation and forgiveness. Surely if the stories are true, then Lord Curthouse may be just the man in need of that forgiveness, and perhaps the burden of leading should be his penance? He knows you have been elected to lead this group, he knows that is gods will and when others forget, he will not. I can assure you of this. Lord Neville is a man of esteem. He is also a man with a hot temper and may so be prone to brash action. Lord Stephen of Aumale does not have what it takes to rouse men when they will need it. I've seen this man, I think when it comes time to stir the men, to relay Gods message if it be needed, he is not that man.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Wynebald smiled a kind smile and held his glass up before taking a sip. He looks to Julien across from him, Lord Neville is a man of esteem. He is a man who, from his accounts, is a pious man. Someone said in the assembly, we march for God. And with that, may we march for salvation and forgiveness. Surely if the stories are true, then Lord Curthouse may be just the man in need of that forgiveness, and perhaps the burden of leading should be his penance? He knows you have been elected to lead this group, he knows that is gods will and when others forget, he will not. I can assure you of this. Lord Neville is a man of esteem. He is also a man with a hot temper and may so be prone to brash action. Lord Stephen of Aumale does not have what it takes to rouse men when they will need it. I've seen this man, I think when it comes time to stir the men, to relay Gods message if it be needed, he is not that man.

Julien taps his chin lightly at the response made by Wynebald. The Norman had said exactly what the Frank wanted to hear. Lord Baalun leans back and nods in agreement.

We nobles are all hot-headed, Lord Cadbury. It is a common trait among us it seems. Though, what you speak is truth, the burden of command and serving God's will could be seen as an act of penance by the Duke of Normandy. Perhaps, a suggestion if I may, His Lordship should go to a local clergyman in our camp and make such an oath with the only witness being God. I believe that this oath of penance, sworn before God, will secure the Duke more than just forgiveness.

The Frank emphasized the last part as a hint. Deep down, Julien truly wanted to make the Duke the Commander of the Normans, but his fear rested with the clergy and what they would think of this. If such an act could be performed and accepted, his mind would be at ease and the request of this present Norman could be fulfilled.

Robert had been homesick. He has been through many lands with different languages and customs. He was put into the clergy as the 3rd son. He did not rebel against it, rather he embraced it. He had grown to like it. It felt like a home within a home. Wherever he went, he would have family. But he also doubted himself too much at times. Should he join the Crusade? Should be bring these men here to their possible deaths? Could he live knowing that men who answered his calls to join this endeavor would most likely not return home? That all ran this his mind, except for today. He was in the company of men who were the same. Spoke the same language, lived the same lives, ate the same food. It was the family that was here.

"I assure you, any confessions you may have can wait until later. Consider it a delayed absolution."
He gave a slight laugh and saw the wine
"A vintage from Burgundy indeed. Almost makes me want to save it for later."
He pour a small amount into a cup and tasted the sweet wine. He shifted it in his mouth, swallowed, and let out a smiling sigh
"Home indeed."

Julien nods to a passing servant who bowed and walked off into the room that was curtained. The servant returned with the bottle, corked and only freshly sealed. Lord Baalun nods once more, this time at Father Robert.

I know your brother would want you to have it. You may be a man of God, but you are still a de Bourgogne and a Frenchman at heart. So keep it, drink it when you need to be reminded of home.

Julien takes a piece of cheese and eats it calmly before glancing at the third empty chair.

Now we wait for our fellow companion and we can truly converse on our homes and lives. I just hope some of my stories don't get me in trouble with the Church. Surely you can keep secrets, right, Father Robert?

[Celsius]

Julien nods to a passing servant who bowed and walked off into the room that was curtained. The servant returned with the bottle, corked and only freshly sealed. Lord Baalun nods once more, this time at Father Robert.

I know your brother would want you to have it. You may be a man of God, but you are still a de Bourgogne and a Frenchman at heart. So keep it, drink it when you need to be reminded of home.

Julien takes a piece of cheese and eats it calmly before glancing at the third empty chair.

Now we wait for our fellow companion and we can truly converse on our homes and lives. I just hope some of my stories don't get me in trouble with the Church. Surely you can keep secrets, right, Father Robert?

Robert nodded in thanks as he took the jug and placed it closer to him. Making sure the cork was secure and running his fingers down the side.
"I am a priest. Secrets are what keep me in business."
He chuckled as he took another sip from the cup

[Celsius]

Robert had been homesick. He has been through many lands with different languages and customs. He was put into the clergy as the 3rd son. He did not rebel against it, rather he embraced it. He had grown to like it. It felt like a home within a home. Wherever he went, he would have family. But he also doubted himself too much at times. Should he join the Crusade? Should be bring these men here to their possible deaths? Could he live knowing that men who answered his calls to join this endeavor would most likely not return home? That all ran this his mind, except for today. He was in the company of men who were the same. Spoke the same language, lived the same lives, ate the same food. It was the family that was here.

"I assure you, any confessions you may have can wait until later. Consider it a delayed absolution."
He gave a slight laugh and saw the wine
"A vintage from Burgundy indeed. Almost makes me want to save it for later."
He pour a small amount into a cup and tasted the sweet wine. He shifted it in his mouth, swallowed, and let out a smiling sigh
"Home indeed."

[Ace_General]

Stepan of lesser poland arrives with a cask under his armer and requests to see the "Lord Commander"

[Lucius Malfoy]

Stepan of lesser poland arrives with a cask under his armer and requests to see the "Lord Commander"

The Pole is permitted to enter. Julien is calmly running his palm over a lit candle, his eyes intensively trained upon the glow. His eyes look up though for a moment to see Sir Stephan. Slowly the Frank withdraws his slightly irritated hand to give the visitor his full attention. His eyes noted the cask under his arm from his peripherals.

A surprise to see you here, Sir Stephan. Thought you would be with your folk or Lord Neville's group.

Robert nodded in thanks as he took the jug and placed it closer to him. Making sure the cork was secure and running his fingers down the side.

"I am a priest. Secrets are what keep me in business."
He chuckled as he took another sip from the cup

More like blackmail, I hear.

Julien chuckles in return and sets down his drink, looking at the small fire before them.

Once when I was a boy, living in the extravagance that was my father's palace, I remember coming across a serving girl. I swear on the Bible that she was an angel, Father Robert. Golden locks of hair, bright blue eyes, perfect dimples and a smile that could cease any man's heart. Oh, what a sight she was! Her family lived in Paris, her given name was Joan.

He sighs contently, remembering Joan's face as if it were yesterday. Times were more simple back then...

To make a long story short, we were close friends. We played and spent much time together, something my father grew suspicious of. We were separated, you see, I was sent to Maine and she was kept in Paris. Yet, before I left for this Crusade, Philippe brought me to capital and to my old bedroom. A sending off gift, he called it, when brought Joan to my eyes. She was more beautiful than before, I tell you. A night we spent, catching up and recalling old times we did. It was something I truly needed...

A moment passed before Julien sighed deeply, recalling the night fondly. Then his tone changed slightly...to one of seriousness.

When I left, Philippe asked me if I had left a bastard in her. He said it jokingly of course. Yet, I turned to him and smiled. I said "If that is the case, make sure the child takes my surname! Name him Philippe de Baalun, after the a brother who made me feel like family and not an unwanted bastard." I think I may have made Philippe cry a little when I rode away.

[Celsius]

More like blackmail, I hear.

Julien chuckles in return and sets down his drink, looking at the small fire before them.

Once when I was a boy, living in the extravagance that was my father's palace, I remember coming across a serving girl. I swear on the Bible that she was an angel, Father Robert. Golden locks of hair, bright blue eyes, perfect dimples and a smile that could cease any man's heart. Oh, what a sight she was! Her family lived in Paris, her given name was Joan.

He sighs contently, remembering Joan's face as if it were yesterday. Times were more simple back then...

To make a long story short, we were close friends. We played and spent much time together, something my father grew suspicious of. We were separated, you see, I was sent to Maine and she was kept in Paris. Yet, before I left for this Crusade, Philippe brought me to capital and to my old bedroom. A sending off gift, he called it, when brought Joan to my eyes. She was more beautiful than before, I tell you. A night we spent, catching up and recalling old times we did. It was something I truly needed...

A moment passed before Julien sighed deeply, recalling the night fondly. Then his tone changed slightly...to one of seriousness.

When I left, Philippe asked me if I had left a bastard in her. He said it jokingly of course. Yet, I turned to him and smiled. I said "If that is the case, make sure the child takes my surname! Name him Philippe de Baalun, after the a brother who made me feel like family and not an unwanted bastard." I think I may have made Philippe cry a little when I rode away.

"I have only met you're brother twice in my life, and he is a good man. A loving man."
He nodded and paused
"And sometimes men in his position, your position....even my position, love to extents which can cause trouble in the lives that we have been given. Philippe knows this more than any of us."
Robert was obviously referring to Philippe's excommunication, but he needn't say
"In my personal experience, the French are one of two things: heartless to a point where they would sooner see their child dead than take a path not designated for them, and having a heart made so golden that it can never be scratched or made rustic for any reason."

He continued, trying to read into what Julien was saying
"Children are God's chosen Apostles to bring light upon a dark world. No child is a mistake, my Lord. Be them a Prince born to the richest family or a baby born in a straw manger..."

[Lucius Malfoy]

"I have only met you're brother twice in my life, and he is a good man. A loving man."
He nodded and paused
"And sometimes men in his position, your position....even my position, love to extents which can cause trouble in the lives that we have been given. Philippe knows this more than any of us."
Robert was obviously referring to Philippe's excommunication, but he needn't say
"In my personal experience, the French are one of two things: heartless to a point where they would sooner see their child dead than take a path not designated for them, and having a heart made so golden that it can never be scratched or made rustic for any reason."

He continued, trying to read into what Julien was saying
"Children are God's chosen Apostles to bring light upon a dark world. No child is a mistake, my Lord. Be them a Prince born to the richest family or a baby born in a straw manger..."

Julien sits quietly for a moment, reflecting on his half-brother's excommunication, preventing his personal involvement with the Crusade. Baalun calmly sips his wine.

I know His Royal Highness would have wished to be here in order to serve God and rid himself of the excommunication. Love is a double-edged sword, Father Robert, it gives fortune and hope on one side with unknown consequences on the other. I already fear what my wife, Constance, may do if she hears of my night with Joan. Yet my half-brother is good at keeping secrets. I know he will keep Joan from public view if a child is conceived and away from my wife.

He refills his cup and looks over at the Burgundian, gesturing in his direction as an indication that it was his turn.

What about you, Father? Got any childhood love stories to tell? I hear Burgundian women are as fair as their French sisters.

[Celsius]

Julien sits quietly for a moment, reflecting on his half-brother's excommunication, preventing his personal involvement with the Crusade. Baalun calmly sips his wine.

I know His Royal Highness would have wished to be here in order to serve God and rid himself of the excommunication. Love is a double-edged sword, Father Robert, it gives fortune and hope on one side with unknown consequences on the other. I already fear what my wife, Constance, may do if she hears of my night with Joan. Yet my half-brother is good at keeping secrets. I know he will keep Joan from public view if a child is conceived and away from my wife.

He refills his cup and looks over at the Burgundian, gesturing in his direction as an indication that it was his turn.

What about you, Father? Got any childhood love stories to tell? I hear Burgundian women are as fair as their French sisters.

"Oh, well..."
He took a rather large swig from his cup
"This was probably, oh my, 20 or so years ago when I was still a young man. Before I entered into the Church. That is something that must be known."
He laughed and took another sip, this time smaller
"There was this girl. She was from outside of Lyon if I recall correctly. Now that I say it I can't remember her name for the life of me..."
He pondered, a near frown coming upon his face.
"She was lovely. Fair skin, hair as brown as dirt just after a light rain and eyes so green that would make you think that Saint Francis himself made them. I remember helping her once with some kind of cloth. Velvet or satin, something ridiculous I'm sure. But she had no idea which child I was. My brothers and I are in an order. 1057, 1058, and 1059, so I'm sure she was nervous about being around the grandson of the Duke of Burgundy."
He gave a faint smile
"I just remember holding her hand on the way back to a home inside of the city. Perhaps I was an odd child, but I remember smelling my hands after leaving her. The smell of honeysuckle with a hint of white grape."

He paused, and looked at the floor for a moment
"I can see her face clear as day, but her name eludes me."

[Ace_General]

The Pole is permitted to enter. Julien is calmly running his palm over a lit candle, his eyes intensively trained upon the glow. His eyes look up though for a moment to see Sir Stephan. Slowly the Frank withdraws his slightly irritated hand to give the visitor his full attention. His eyes noted the cask under his arm from his peripherals.

A surprise to see you here, Sir Stephan. Thought you would be with your folk or Lord Neville's group.

[COLOR=#000000]
More like blackmail, I hear.

Julien chuckles in return and sets down his drink, looking at the small fire before them.

Once when I was a boy, living in the extravagance that was my father's palace, I remember coming across a serving girl. I swear on the Bible that she was an angel, Father Robert. Golden locks of hair, bright blue eyes, perfect dimples and a smile that could cease any man's heart. Oh, what a sight she was! Her family lived in Paris, her given name was Joan.

He sighs contently, remembering Joan's face as if it were yesterday. Times were more simple back then...

To make a long story short, we were close friends. We played and spent much time together, something my father grew suspicious of. We were separated, you see, I was sent to Maine and she was kept in Paris. Yet, before I left for this Crusade, Philippe brought me to capital and to my old bedroom. A sending off gift, he called it, when brought Joan to my eyes. She was more beautiful than before, I tell you. A night we spent, catching up and recalling old times we did. It was something I truly needed...

A moment passed before Julien sighed deeply, recalling the night fondly. Then his tone changed slightly...to one of seriousness.

When I left, Philippe asked me if I had left a bastard in her. He said it jokingly of course. Yet, I turned to him and smiled. I said "If that is the case, make sure the child takes my surname! Name him Philippe de Baalun, after the a brother who made me feel like family and not an unwanted bastard." I think I may have made Philippe cry a little when I rode away.

Stepan nods and says

Well, at one of the German's camp there will be a Oktoberfest festival of some sort and I plan to get right rat arsed sir, so believe me, I will have plenty of time to stay with them. And its about Earl Neville my lord, I think he is a great man and I will follow him, but his stubbornness makes mules look open minded. And that damned Robert Curthouse fellow. So I figured I would come here, and split a cask of some Hungarian ale I lifted off some of the "chosen people" and perhaps when my Norman allies are stubborn peacocking arrogant normans like they always are, you would have someone on good terms to talk to in there camp.

Also, I want to know this high and mighty aloof Frank who is to command our holy endeavor.

[Lucius Malfoy]

Stepan nods and says

Well, at one of the German's camp there will be a Oktoberfest festival of some sort and I plan to get right rat arsed sir, so believe me, I will have plenty of time to stay with them. And its about Earl Neville my lord, I think he is a great man and I will follow him, but his stubbornness makes mules look open minded. And that damned Robert Curthouse fellow. So I figured I would come here, and split a cask of some Hungarian ale I lifted off some of the "chosen people" and perhaps when my Norman allies are stubborn peacocking arrogant normans like they always are, you would have someone on good terms to talk to in there camp.

Also, I want to know this high and mighty aloof Frank who is to command our holy endeavor.

Oh please, Sir Stephan. High and mighty aloof Frank? You must be speaking of my royal half-brother, Roi Philippe de France. I am but a legitimized bastard, who has been given fortune from the bounty of his royal kin. I do not claim fame and glory as he does.

He looks at the Hungarian vintage that was brought. To be honest, Julien had never tasted Slavic, or Eastern, wine before. Some called it as bitter as medicine, others called it as strong as a Roman gladiator. So either his gut would be punched or get sick.

Robert Curthouse I know well. I was Baron of Baalun when he was still Count of Maine and his father, William the Conqueror, still gave obedience to Henri and Philippe. I left those lands when Maine followed the Normans with the English Crown and settled down in Soissons, just across the river from Paris. From that location, I was close to my half-brothers; Hugh in Vermandois to the East and His Royal Highness to the South.

[Iron Aquilifer]

This would be his first visit to the commander's tent. Having been destroyed in the bid for leadership and being overlooked for nominal command of the German battle, Theodoric had found himself nursing a dislike for the man. However, now with a number of comrades made, the Duke was anxious to secure what he had now set as his goal: the Principality of Tripoli. It was to be the jewel in the Kingdom of Christ, unspoiled like the realms to the west.

A courtier announced his presence, a cask of wine being brought alongside the nobleman.

[Pinkerton]

Sir Guy made his way to Julien's tent after receiving the message requesting his presence