Heart of the Crown

by Paul J Bennett

  Alric, Anna and Gerald had settled upon a circuit that would take the riders past three main obstacles and then return to their starting location. Each rider was allowed to trot through the course to familiarize themselves with it. A burnt out tree stump formed the first leg of the race, where the riders would circle around behind it and then proceed to the great oak tree that was at the back of the field. They would pass toward the outside of the tree then head toward a broken wagon that lay rotting in the sun. From there they would race to the finish line, marked by two spears placed into the ground.

  Mad Jack had chosen to wear his soft cotton shirt with ridiculously tight pants and high boots. He made a show of strutting around the audience, paying particular attention to the female knights in attendance. Beverly remained in her usual travelling attire, a leather jerkin and sturdy pants, only removing her armour. She was standing, stroking Lightning's nose, chatting to Aubrey while they waited for Jack to complete his display.

  "He certainly puts on a show," commented Aubrey.

  "He's a showman, I'll give you that," Beverly agreed.

  "I suppose he would have to be. He's in tournaments all the time."

  "Tournaments! These people are barbarians. Can you imagine fighting for fun? Someone could get killed."

  "I'm told," offered Aubrey, "that they have healers standing by."

  "Still, very dangerous. Even a healer can't fix you if you're dead."

  "But you're playing his game, aren't you? Doing this race, I mean?"

  "That's different," Beverly defended. "No one's going to die here."

  "Not unless Jack upsets you again," chortled Aubrey.

  Beverly laughed, releasing some of the pent-up anxiety. "It's good to have you here, Cousin. You make me unwind."

  "Look, he's finally done his show," noted Aubrey.

  It was true. After bowing outrageously before the crowd, Jack was moving toward his mount. He stopped beside it, put one hand on the saddle and then leaped onto the creature's back. The crowd, duly impressed, clapped and he waved at them, flashing his teeth. He trotted over to Beverly and bowed, waiting for her to mount.

  Beverly had thought to jump into the saddle but changed her mind. She spoke to Lightning, and then the great horse went down on his front knees. She straddled the saddle and, without using her hands or a word of command, the great beast stood, making Jack's horse seem much smaller in comparison. Seeing Jack's look of surprise, she smiled.

  "Take your positions," called out Prince Alric, and the two riders trotted over to the line formed by the two spears.

  Gerald was standing on the line, holding out his hand. The riders brought their horses forward, aligned with each other. Gerald stood to one side, clear from any obstruction and raised his sword in the air. The crowd held its breath, and then he swept the sword down; the signal to begin.

  The horses burst forward, clumps of grass and dirt flying up from their hooves. Jack's horse was nimble and gained an early lead. Down the side of the course he rode, yelling in triumph. Beverly paced Lightning for she knew he would need a burst of speed near the end. Round the burnt stump rode Jack, making a tight turn. Beverly saw him clear the marker and then leaned her mount into the turn. Lightning was moving well, not even exerting himself, waiting for the command to unleash his full potential.

  Jack peered over his shoulder, and Beverly spied a flash of white as the man smiled. Could he be so cocky so early in the race? Silly question, she thought, of course he could.

  The large oak tree drew nearer, and she slowed Lightning to make this second, and slightly tighter turn. She observed Jack ahead of her, but his horse was sweating heavily; he was pushing his mount and could make no more speed. Round the tree they flew and onto the next stretch. She spotted the broken cart in the distance and lined up the run. Lightning made a jump to clear a small stream, and then she let him have his freedom.

  Jack was looking over his shoulder again, displaying his bravado when suddenly Lightning exploded into a frenzy of speed. Jack turned back to face forward, and dug in with his heels, pushing his horse to the limit. He made the last turn around the broken wagon, and then stood slightly in his stirrups, whipping his reins to drive his mount even faster. Above the sounds of his own horse, he heard the thundering of hooves, and looking to the side, he witnessed the massive Mercerian Charger passing him.

  Beverly released her reins and let Lightning sail past the finish line, allowing him to slow down naturally. Once he was back to an easy trot, she wheeled him around with her legs, patting him on the neck. Jack crossed the finish line, looking on in appreciation. Not one to miss an opportunity, he stood on his horse's back and bowed to the audience as he trotted by, waving at the crowd.

  Beverly rode over to Aubrey, who was standing by the finish line. She dismounted some distance from the line and let Lightning trail her without a lead. The great horse followed her obediently, stopping when she did. She bowed before the prince, and with a hand motion, bid her mount to do likewise. The crowd roared with approval, and she noticed Jack out of the corner of her eye, his face a mask of annoyance; she had stolen his adoration.

  "The winner is clearly Dame Beverly," announced Prince Alric. "Our congratulations to you both, for the fine show you have put on today."

  Jack rode over, finally dismounting by leaping from the saddle. Was there no end to this man's showmanship?

  "My most heartfelt congratulations," he said. "It was a race most fair, though I fear you have the finer mount." He was examining Lightning's lines in appreciation. "Perhaps I could arrange to purchase one of these fine steeds."

  "Lightning is mine," Beverly stated. "A gift from my uncle, Lady Aubrey's father. It's he that raises the breed."

  "Ah," said Jack, turning to face Aubrey, "I see that the Brandon's are well bred, along with their horses."

  Aubrey blushed, not sure how to handle this remark. "I understand you raise horses yourself, Lord Jack."

  "My father does, the finest horseflesh in the realm. Perhaps we'll travel there someday, and I will give you a tour."

  "That would be delightful," she replied. "I'm sure my cousin and I would like that very much."

  He glanced over to Beverly, and another look of irritation crossed his face. He covered it quickly with a smile. "I yield the riding to the finest equestrian," he said, "but at least I know I can still beat anyone in a fight."

  Beverly was about to step forward, but Gerald put a hand on her forearm. "Let him have his moment, Beverly," he said. "It's just bluster."

  She took a breath, holding it just a moment before letting it out slowly.

  "Now," exclaimed Jack, "it's time to drink!"

  Sixteen

  Faltingham

  Autumn 960 MC

  The estate at Faltingham was large and sprawling. It sat at the northernmost border of Weldwyn, close to the very western end of the Greatwood and just south of the Hills of Despair. As such, it was in no danger of attack, for it was said that no army could penetrate the heavy brush of the Greatwood, and none would dare to attempt to pass through the hills, for there were spirits of the dead that lived there, ready to consume the souls of those who dare trespass.

  The nearby city was a massive structure, with traditional walls and towers, yet Gerald observed that they were falling into disrepair. Likely the town had never seen a battle larger than a drunken brawl and the citizens sat behind their defenses, feeling secure.

  They passed through the city without stopping, for Prince Alric was apparently eager to arrive at his destination. Lord Edwin Weldridge, the Earl of Faltingham, was the king's closest friend, so close, in fact, that Alric called him uncle. He was, of course, indispensable to the king and had remained in the capital, sending word to his wife to expect visitors. Now, as they rode up to the estate, Alric recognized his Aunt, Lady Alicia Weldridge, waiting to greet them.

  Alric travelled in the carriage along with Anna and Tempus. Gerald and Beverly rode to either side while Lily was in a second carriag
e, along with Aubrey, Revi and Lady Nicole. The rest followed along on horseback, with an army of wagons and servants that made up the rest of the procession.

  As the carriage rolled to a stop, the servants dutifully came forward to open the door. Alric invited Anna to exit the carriage first, and she descended the small step to greet Gerald, who, having dismounted, was waiting, his arm extended for her to hold. Alric came next, followed by Tempus, the great dog rocking the carriage as he jumped to the ground. Lady Alicia bowed deeply, then Alric stepped forward to hug her affectionately.

  "It's so good to see you, Aunt Alicia. How have things been in Faltingham?"

  "They have been well," she replied, "but look at you! You've grown so much. You're filling out nicely; I suppose all the fair maids in the capital are swooning over you."

  He blushed at the compliment and then turned to introduce his guest, "This is Princess Anna of Merceria. She has decided to travel the kingdom to meet the people and has chosen Faltingham as the first stop."

  Lady Alicia bowed again, "We are honoured by your visit, Highness. I hope you will find the accommodations to your satisfaction."

  "Thank you, Countess," Anna responded.

  "Countess?" Lady Alicia looked to Alric for an explanation, but the young prince had the same look of confusion.

  "Is the wife of an earl not referred to as 'Countess'?" she asked. "It's the title we use in Merceria."

  "No," explained Alric. "She's just addressed as Lady Alicia. The term 'Countess' would only apply if she were a widow."

  "Why is that?" Anna asked.

  "As a woman, the only way she can hold a title is if she is widowed."

  Gerald detected a hint of annoyance in the prince's voice; Alric was tired of explaining things from the sound of it. Anna also reacted to the tone; he noticed her jaws clench.

  "An interesting custom," offered Gerald, bowing. "Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Gerald Matheson."

  "Yes," agreed Anna, "pardon my manners. Gerald here is my closest confidant and this," she held her hand out for her dog to move closer, "is Tempus."

  "What a marvellous hound," said Lady Alicia, "and so large! I bet he has a healthy appetite. How about the rest of you? Are you hungry? We've laid out a spread. Come inside, we don't stand much on ceremony here."

  "It's true," added Alric. "Aunt Alicia doesn't hold much love for court life. My parents often come up here just to relax."

  "Our king hunts to relax," offered Anna. "Do they hunt around here?"

  "No, it's too dangerous. Oh, the area's safe enough near the city or estate, but nasty things live in the woods and hills in these parts."

  Gerald, at first, thought he might be spinning a tale, but the serious look on the prince's face told him otherwise.

  "Is there anything we should know about?" he asked in concern.

  "No," responded Alric. "You'd have to go miles before running into anything dangerous."

  They made their way into the mansion, where a large room had been prepared. Chairs were scattered all around, with small tables nearby.

  "It is our custom," offered Lady Alicia, "that we sit and chat while we pick at finger food."

  "Finger food? Isn't all food eaten using fingers?" asked Gerald.

  "This food is," offered Lady Alicia, "but more formal meals require forks."

  "Oh yes, forks," replied Gerald. They had always fascinated him for some reason, and he suddenly wondered what the forks of Faltingham might look like? Were they the same as in Merceria? Certainly the ones in the capital were pretty normal looking. He was startled out of his reverie by Lady Beverly, who was tapping him on the shoulder.

  "I'd like to see to the billeting of the column, with your permission, Gerald."

  "Why do you need my permission?" he asked, dumbfounded by the question.

  "The princess told us you were in charge of all her troops. Didn't she tell you?"

  He looked across at Anna, who was sampling a pastry. As their eyes met, she smiled and nodded, perhaps with a mischievous glint to her eye.

  "Oh, I see how it works," he muttered. "Very well, Dame Beverly, you may see to their billets. I'm sure there are servants here who can tell you where to put them."

  Beverly turned to leave, but Gerald quickly grabbed her arm, "Hold a moment," he said, indicating with his finger that she should lean in close. "Make sure you have the room next to Anna," he whispered. "We don't know who we can trust."

  "They're putting two to a room," she replied.

  "Then share a room with your cousin, I'll talk to you about it later."

  Beverly nodded, a slight look of confusion on her face. She bowed to the princess and then left the room.

  * * *

  Aubrey supervised the unpacking of Revi's carriage. There were chests with all manner of things inside, along with a copious number of books.

  "I see you've become quite the librarian," said a voice from behind her. She turned to see Beverly approaching.

  "Where have you been, Cousin?" said Beverly. "I was starting to worry that Mad Jack might show up."

  "If you're looking for Revi, he's talking to Captain Caster. Sorry, I suppose I should say Sir Arnim, shouldn't I."

  "We don't stand much on ceremony here, unless it's something official. I'm sure you can simply call him Arnim. Now, what do we have here?"

  "These are my training books," she swept her arm over the pile.

  "All these? It'll take months to get through that lot."

  "Actually, I've already read most of them, but I need to check on a few things every now and again, so I have to have them close. That reminds me, do we know what rooms we've been assigned to? I'd like to get these indoors."

  "As luck would have it," said Beverly, "that's precisely why I'm here. You and I will be sharing a room."

  Aubrey looked pleased. "Just like back in Hawksburg," she exclaimed. "We can chat into the wee hours of the night."

  "Yes, but I still have duties, so I have to get SOME sleep."

  They both laughed and Beverly starting picking up books. "Come on, then, let's get this load of ancient knowledge up to our new room. I suspect we'll be here awhile."

  They were housed on the second floor, with the princess being given a room in the northwest corner of the building. Beverly and Aubrey were right next door, to the east, while Gerald had an adjoining room to the west.

  Beverly had thought to put guards on the floor, but something about Gerald's warning made her pause to think. Was there a threat to the princess here? She didn't think so, but her mind hearkened back to the warnings of the druid Albreda. She decided to post Hayley in the hallway, leaving Arnim's guards to patrol the rest of the estate.

  * * *

  It was late evening by the time everything was settled. Beverly and Aubrey were finally sitting in their room, enjoying some wine when they were interrupted by a quiet knock on the door.

  "Come in," Beverly and Aubrey chimed in unison.

  The door opened to reveal Gerald, his face a mask of worry.

  "What is it, Gerald, is something wrong?"

  "I must talk to you in private, Beverly. Something very important."

  "Aubrey is completely trustworthy," she stated.

  A look of indecision crossed his face, and then he nodded, moving into the room to sit on the end of one of the beds. He leaned forward to talk in a quiet voice, his audience mimicking his behaviour.

  "We've recently learned there may be a traitor in our group," he said, pausing to let the words sink in.

  "A traitor? What makes you say that?" asked Beverly.

  "After the attack on Anna, Prince Alstan did some investigation. He discovered a letter hidden away in the late Captain Brown's house."

  He withdrew the letter, passing it to Beverly. She perused the document, sharing it with Aubrey, as Gerald spoke. "This information was intended for someone, and it details the defenses of Bodden Keep. It has to be someone who was there. Even the catapults are mentioned, and they're recent additions
."

  "Who do you suspect?" asked Beverly. "Surely not me?"

  "No, of course not. And Lady Aubrey here is family, plus she's never even been to Bodden. But you must keep this to yourselves."

  "You discovered this some time ago, why bring it to our attention now?" asked Aubrey.

  "I need your help," he continued. "We have to keep an eye on a number of people, but Anna and I can't do it alone. I'm starting with you two because I know you can be trusted."

  "Who else knows?" asked Beverly.

  "The princess and I are the only ones, here. We've discussed this at length. You and Aubrey will be the first two, and later I will have discussions with Arnim and Revi."

  "Arnim was sent by the marshal-general. Can we trust him?"

  "I know you're suspicious of him, but we have a shared past. There were...events that transpired at Uxley before you arrived. I think we can safely trust him. Whoever is behind this is not working for Valmar. This is the hand of someone else, likely a Norlander."

  "So who are the suspects?" asked Aubrey, warming to the task.

  "The letter was written in a feminine hand and indicates knowledge of military terms. We're going on the assumption that it's a knight, but they might not be working alone. I need you two to just keep your eyes open and your ears to the ground. Don't get carried away, simply note anything you see as out of the ordinary."

  "Consider it done," said Beverly, with Aubrey nodding in agreement.

  "And say nothing of this to anyone, save myself and the princess."

  "Agreed," the two women chimed in.

  "Now, enjoy the rest of your evening, for I fear we'll be busy for the next few days," Gerald said cryptically. He rose from his seat, to open the door, pausing as he did so, "Good night, ladies," he said, then left the room, closing the door behind him.

  "Well, that was interesting," remarked Aubrey. "Is it always like this?"

  "No," replied her cousin, "sometimes things get really strange!"