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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 14, 2004 12:46:20 GMT -5
Cymril de Fouinon, special and secret envoy of the Frankian king to the Kentish lands, was pacing back and forth in the ante chamber to King Righeharde’s throne room. He had been sent on an important mission. An afterthought, so to speak. To further the safety of the Frankish realm and assure the continuance of the the Lily throne.
“De Sennis will not like this if he ever finds out about this!” This Cymril spoke to himself and he nervously watched the large wooden doors towards the throne room, still closed and seemingly impenetrable. What was taking the king so long? If Righarde thought he could let an envoy of the Frankish realm wait like any messenger boy…
At last a servant came in, bowing deeply, apologizing for the wait the Frank has had to endure, citing important matter of the state. Cymril waved his hand dismissively, then breathed a breath of relief when finally the large wooden doors opened and he was ushered into the throne room, before the Kentish king.
The Frankish envoy bowed deeply when he stood before Righarde, remaining in such a position for several seconds before straightening again, looking up into the king’s face.
“Your majesty! I greet thee in the name of his majesty king Charles III of the Westfrankian Kingdom! I have come here on important and confidant matter, Milord! Something that should be discussed … in private?”
A pleasant, friendly smile shone on Cymril’s face … it was always good to come to the point, yet remain friendly and pleasant at the same time.
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Post by Righarde on Sept 14, 2004 12:58:16 GMT -5
*Righarde held strong. He watched as his councellors looked to him and smiled*
ah, Monsieuer de Fouinon, welcome to Kent.
*the smile was brief*
speak Sir..you may speak freely. A King holds little secret between him and those who would advise....
*he waited for the mans reaction before continuing. Righarde looked beyond the man*
oh but I do not see Monsieuer De Sennis with you?...I do hope the man is well?
*Righarde sat impassive for the answer this man would give*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 14, 2004 13:11:40 GMT -5
Cymril hadn’t expected that talk would come the subject of the well-being of Lord De sennis, but he quickly found his cheerful composure again, laughoing a little when he answered.
“Oh, Milord de Sennis is a busy man, qui? He is … travelling, in a matter dear to my sovereign’s heart. He is doing what he does best and loves well – serving Frankia and all her subjects! Now…”
Cymril stepped two steps closer towards the king, leaning in closer still. “I have all confidence in the discretion of your councillors, your majesty. Wise men they certainly be, however … the matter I wish to speak of is of a very delicate and sensitive matter, my king! Please do not understand my insistence of speaking with only you as a slight for your most able councillors, but… I am certain my king, Charles, would wish to speak with you eye to eye about this, if such was possible. I am acting in his stead and therefore would prefer … a more private place?”
His voice was insistent, he hoped the king would agree to speak in private with him.
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Post by Righarde on Sept 14, 2004 13:22:43 GMT -5
I see... your Lord De Sennis does not deem me important eh....
*Righarde lowered his eyes and rubbed his chin. He gave the man before him enough time to squirm on the perfumed words he spoke. Idily Righarde wondered if De Sennis would make the same error.
Righarde rose*
verra well,come to the garden where the delicate flowers will listen in on this delicate matter of yours....
*he walked ahead, the counsellors followed till they came to the small garden. There Righarde placed his hands behind his back and looked to the winding path where they would walk.*
now Sir... what is this "sensitive matter" you speak of. Out with it man, I may nae be important to your De Sennis but I am a busy man!...
*cool grey eyes met Cymril de Fouinon's*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 15, 2004 1:12:30 GMT -5
Closely Cymril de Fouinon followed the Kent king to the gardens. A narrow path lead deeper into the botanical maze that took up about a quarter of the gardens, thankfully it was a place where the councilors of the king couldn’t follow the two men.
After moving along that path for about 100 yards, seeing they were alone, Cymril eased up a little bit, watching king Righeharde with interest and amusement.
“So, you think that it is Lord de Sennis who has sent me here? Aaah, the man would be raving mad if he even knew I was here, your majesty. But I will let him know, next time I’ll see him, that you hold him in such high regard!” Cymril smiled, knowing full well the tone with which Righeharde had spoken of the Frankish councilor. “No – I come with a direct order from my king, Charles, to speak with you and make known to you a proposal for the benefit of both our houses and our lands.”
The Frank walked closer to a rose that bloomed nearby, plugging it delicately from its stem, then turning towards the king again.
“The flowers you grow here are quite exquisite! Not often is such beauty found on these rainy isles, and yet here you shelter one that has such grace and beauty.” Cymril toyed with the rose between his fingers, then stopped, becoming more serious. “Kent and the Frankish realm have enjoyed many a year of good neighborhood, of friendly relations. My king would wish to further such relationship, and make both our realms stronger as we both face an ever growing threat from the Northern raiders. My king, as you will know, has need for a wife. Too long has he been alone, and an heir will soon be needed for the continuation of our line. Of course, many a fine lady is at our own court but… he has long known of the hidden beauty that is housed here within your home. A treasure he wishes to make his own, in honorable marriage. For the benefit of Kent and Frankia.”
Again Cymril began to roll the stem of the rose between his fingers thoughtfully, but then looked squarely into the king’s eyes. “The rose and treasure I speak of, which my sovereign would like to honor and take for his bride, is Lady Sadhbh – your sister!”
The movement of the rose stopped, and Cymril waited for a first reaction by the king to his proposal for a new union between the two kingdoms.
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 15, 2004 11:55:58 GMT -5
*The rose was'nt the only thing that smelt....too sweetly. This mans words had the strongest stench in the place. Righardes nose itched till he could do naught but scratch it and then rub his chin*
..I see....
*so it begins he thought, no sooner had I thought of Sadhbh becoming bethroth than this man comes to Kent to bring forth his Kings case adn the way he spoke the Doves name... the young man held a liking for dramatics*
hmmm....
*Righarde stepped forward and looked on to the path ahead, it split three ways and brought the King back to times when he, Sighehehelm and Sadhbh would dash down each path and see whom would win the game of chase. A smile came to his lips*
you speak well for your Kind Sir de Fouinon. You are to be commended in that. I would wish to hear more of this proposal before I decide and I must speak with my counsellors. *his turned, his grey eyes impassive stones of slate seemed to smile* as you know my sister is a treasure we Kents prize. You would obviously know that your Kings admiring glance be nae the only one. In the end I would need assurances good man....
Can you give them to me?
*his eyes steadied on his*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 15, 2004 12:16:53 GMT -5
Cymril smiled to himself…. The king seemed interested, or at least not rejecting the offer by King Charles flat out. Good, very good! The Frank envoy held the searching glance of the Kent king, he bowed again gracefully.
“Assurances you will get, your majesty! My king has instructed me to discuss any bridal price your Lordship may set for this exquisite young woman. In fact, he has much to offer you, my king! Land, villages and a dukeship in the March de Bretagne. Gold as well… it is cold out here, don’t you think? I think it would be best if we were to discuss this further inside, over a map mayhaps? And some … food? Then I shall give you my king’s exact terms and … assurances!”
Cymril’s stomach indeed began to gurgle slightly, making the envoy blush a little.
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 15, 2004 12:25:23 GMT -5
ah....such a masterful gentleman you are to think for a King...
*he lowered his eyes to keep what thoughts he held to himself*
...yes that would please me Monsieuer but first I must attend to other more urgent affairs. Perhaps we can discuss this tonight over dinner and perhaps you will be able to tell me just how your King came to hear of our Dove eh...
*he placed his massive hand on the mans skinny shoulders*
....I shall see you later Sir...good 'eve...*without further adieu he left to write a certain letter to a certain brother*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 18, 2004 13:49:38 GMT -5
„Of course I shall wait, your majesty! More talk later, I am sure my liege’s offerings will please you and the lady Sadhbh!”
Lord Cymril bowede deeply towards the Kent king who left him standing in the gardens. He had a favourable impression of the man, he was certain his words would sway the king to seriously consider the offerings of King Charles of Frankia. Other suitors could go look in other kingdoms… Cymril would make certain that lady Sadhbh of Kent, the Dove, would soon flutter within the golden cage King Charles was already preparing for her!
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 18, 2004 18:20:35 GMT -5
*he spoke to Lord Bleakstone, a man who was not swayed by the emotions that the Kent King would be apt to be suffering from. Others spoke within the council hall and Righarde spoke to them all*
I have heard this mans words. I have heard your words. I have wrote to my brother. For now, we wait!
*there was some spoken disapproval, disapproval the Righarde quashed with a raised hand*
Gentlemen....gentlemen. Ye know as I that to run into decisions such as this is a fools game. Before we get into bed with the Franks
*here there was heckles from the crowd. Righarde took it kindly*
please..we need time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of such an alliance....
*he rubbed his chin and smiled*
Ye know that man speaks well, and his offer seems well thought out...yet I wonder...
*he looked about him*
....it has not been a bare week since we spoke of Lady Sadhbhs status....a bare week! and this man comes to us.
*he lowered his tone to become deadly calm*
I wonder how the man knows my mind before I do....
*the place grew quiet a moment before Righarde added*
look to your own gentlemen. My eyes are upon thee...
I look to Windstorm for the truth..and the truth I will have!
*voices were raised, protests of innocence and indignation. Righarde leaned to oneside of his chair and watched carefully*
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 21, 2004 8:59:05 GMT -5
*the castle was old yet the fire in the room kept the cold chill away. A large table lay in the center with a myriod of goods. Ale, wine and water for the men were delivered by buxum maids who kept their eyes low and their hands busied with work. Upon the walls lay tappestrys of hunting scenes and the castle. It was obvious that this place was well used to accomadate a barrage of men. Laughter could be heard from the men as they spoke to each other. In the center of it all sat Righarde and their "guest" Monsieuer De Fouinon.
Meat was aplenty and so was the sweet smelling bread. Vegetables, in the times considered poor folks food yet at the bottom of the table there lay a plate or two of turnip.
Music was played by a lone harpist who sat by the fire and got the best of the food. Indeed the old Irish tradition that the Bard be served next after the King was followed this night.
With all the joviality their guest remained silent, t'was well Righarde thought to himself. It gave him time to study the man. He picked like a bird!. Surely such a man if he were a fish would have been tossed back as a sprat. Yet he spoke quite well, quite well indeed. Lord Bleakstone thought highly of him also which made Righarde wonder...suspect. Time..yes time was what he needed time to study these men and learn....
In the meantime he had sent 30 men out to the Kent borders to learn if there was something afoot. Righarde was tempted to send for Sighehelm yet he knew that his brother was doing his duty in Kent and perhaps he would find a wife?.
He thought of his own situation, being a King, it was hard for Righarde to leave his realm and harder still to woo a woman into thoughts of marriage. He had for a time thought of Lady Beren, a fine Lady indeed, a jewel and yet the distance they bore made it impossible for him to court the Lady or even speak with her. Ah he mused, Sighehelm had the right mind in this. Now, footloose and fancyfree, Prince Sighehelm could go where he would.
The hall grew silent, the Bard began to sing and his sweet tones led Righarde to wonder about sweet Sadhbh. She probably had grown since he last saw her and yet it was difficult not to see the little girl who ran through the meadows and played among the horses. Sadhbh, almost like a child to them all, she had grown up too fast. It was only the counsellors that reminded him of her age that turned his mind to marriage. Yes it would strengthen Kent and yet, how could he deprive Kent of their Dove? Then again, how could he deprive Kent of The Strength that the Dove could bring?.
Difficult times indeed....He looked to the Frank Bird and waited for the Bard to end his song and for this man to speak*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 21, 2004 13:25:42 GMT -5
The feast given to his honor was not very much to Lord Cymril’s liking, even though any other diplomat would welcome such a splendid opportunity to pick up on the latest gossip of the realms and castle. Although the food was quite exquisite – apart from some more mundane and peasant dishes which Cymril suspected would be given to the servants later on for their services – the noise and boisterousness of some of the Kent Lords was something Cymril did not delight in. He put on his best diplomatic face, however; laughed at the appropriate places and nodded when one of the king’s councillors made a remark trying to show off his knowledge of Frankish customs and preferences.
Lord de Fouinon sat before his plate, picking at the cold cuts which a serving lass had placed upon a platter for him, together with a few of the turnips and some sort of dip. He wasn’t very hungry. Cymril was a quiet man, working best when talking one on one with someone he needed something from. He made amiable enough conversation with a few of the Lords, Sir Bleakstone and a Lord Turrey seemed to be impressed when he told them about King Charles’ latest victories against the Vikings and marauding Saxons, as well as when he told them from how many smaller kings Charles received regular tribute, and with whom the Frankian realm traded.
All the while he listened and chatted politely with his hosts, Cymril was never letting King Righarde out of his eyes. The man sat quiet, like a hawk, no doubt listening to every word he exchanged with the royal councillors.
When the bard had finished his song – already Cymril saw him playing for the wedding of his king with the Lady Sadhbh – the Frankish noble clapped his hands politely, then leaning over to King Righarde, a satisfied smile on his face.
“You have excellent taste, your majesty. That bard could compete with the best of ours, I will give you that. He was quiet exquisite, just like the food and much that grows here in these lands!” He took a deep draught form his goblet of wine, then flicked his tongue over his lips. “The lady Sadhbh must have grown up in a house rich with culture and education. It is something my sovereign appreciates in a woman, sire. To him she should be more than merely the mother of his future children, she must be able to oversee her own household and be well versed in etiquette and manners. We have heard much about your court, king Righarde, and I now see the reports we have received were certainly not exaggerated. …Hmm, by the way – when will I be able to meet your lovely sister in person, Milord?”
Another sip from his goblet managed to mask the inquisitive glance the Frankish diplomat gave the hall once again.
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 21, 2004 13:47:43 GMT -5
*As anticipated the man made his move, through the joviality and comradery Righarde listened to the man who curtsied and fawned like no weasel he had ever met. A fine diplomat he was, someone Righarde surmissed would go far in the Frank Court.
As the man asked about Sadhbh; Righardes eyes grow dark*
it is unfortunate Sir that my Sister is away. She got caught up in a War between your side and Windstorm. I believe Sir that you fairly had your rears whelped!
*the voice was quiet without malice yet its words made the men about him laugh. Righarde gave a small smile and took some more wine from his goblet.
He set it aside then took a huge hunk of lamb between his hands*
If you seek to meet my Sister, I suggest that you go to Windstorm. Aye..indeed I insist on it!. My sisters happiness is important to me Monsieuer De Fouinon so it would be wise to speak to her also...and my brother. Indeed Monsieuer, your War had put the lives of my Sister, my Mother and my Brother at stake. They will not be easily won over but..
*again he smiled as he looked his way*
I am sure that your elegant tongue can bring contentment, indeed joy to my family at the Frank/Kent union. What say you Sir?
*and so Righarde looked to Lord Bleakstone and Turrey they had shown their hand and now he would lengthen the rope.....*
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Post by Cymril de Fouinon on Sept 22, 2004 4:32:01 GMT -5
Lord Cymril slowed the chewing of a bit of meat he had taken from a platter before him. Was King Righarde trying to send him away so as to gain more time to decide upon the matter of Lady Sadhbh? Was he trying to get rid of him, sending him into the arms of the Vikings?
Still chewing, and finally clearing his mouth out with another swig from his goblet, Cymril smiled at the Kent sovereign.
“Milord, you do not seriously expect me to go to Windstrom myself, even should your sister be there? Why is it, by the way, that you tolerate her being there when no one could guarantee her safety there? And the reason for Frankia to be in Windstorm right now is a good one, let me assure you, my king! King Charles is only looking out for the safety of his realm, a concern you, as ruler of your own lands, will be able to appreciate. Charles cares for the well-being of his subjects, and would do more still had he the lovely flower that is your sister to look after! … Order her here, sire, and have her present herself in the surroundings she can shine in most aptly. For me to go to Windstorm, without assurances that she indeed will become my liege’s bride, is unfathomable, King Righarde!”
Cymril held out his goblet for a bit more wine while he scrutinized the king and the men around him.
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Post by King Righarde on Sept 22, 2004 17:02:17 GMT -5
*Righarde listened carefully as the hall went deadly quiet. Taking another bite, the man seemed to savour the meat before speaking*
last I heard...Windstorm has a King...
*he took another bite,savoured it and looked to De Fouinan*
and last I heard myne brother held a fine sword and is charged to keep our sister and mother safe Sir. Why is'nt Lord De Sennis there?... I did not think that you feared where other Franks would go?.
*Righarde smiled and took a piece of bread. He broke it then continued*
for ye to not see our lovely Dove would be a misfortune for you. Quite right, I shall request her presence here..for a brief visit....
*he chewed on the bread and looked from the Frankian diplomat. Conversation grew again to fill the hall. Laughter shone as Righarde rose*
if you will excuse me.
*with a nod he slipped away from the crowd to write what he would and muse over the mans words. He did not like some of it..not at all.....*
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