Burden of the Crown

2. The Gathering

TWO

The Gathering

FALL 962 MC

Gerald opened the door just a little, enough to peer through at the assembled guests.

"How does it look?" asked Anna.

"Crowded," he observed. "You're the one that wanted commoners invited, and they're packing them in as tightly as they can."

"It's important," she replied. "They need to know that I'm doing things differently."

"I think they got the message," said Gerald, "I only hope things don't go sideways. Crowds can turn suddenly, without warning. I'd hate to see what would happen if this lot got upset."

"They won't," promised Anna, "and I'm counting on them to keep the nobles in their place."

He turned from the door to look at her in surprise. "You what?"

"The nobles secretly fear the mob. They won't try a power play if the commoners are here."

"It's a gamble," he said, "but I suppose you're right."

"Are the guards all in place?" Anna asked.

"They are," he replied. "Beverly is waiting for your arrival. I only wish we had more knights we could trust. The war may be over, but I can't say I feel safe with Knights of the Sword guarding you."

"I know," she said, "but we've had little time to do much of anything."

"Nervous?" he asked, noticing her wringing her hands.

"Terribly," she replied. "I've never done this before."

"Nonsense," said Gerald, "you held court in Summersgate when you took the oaths of the Kurathians."

"This is different," she defended. "That was all arranged ahead of time. When I go out there today, it will be the first time they hear of my plans. What if they don't like them?"

"They'll like them, don't you worry. Now, let's have a look at you."

Gerald walked around Anna, fussing with the sleeve of her dress. "There, perfect," he pronounced. "There's only one thing missing.”

"What?" she asked, her voice squeaking out in fear.

In answer, he stepped across to the other door, opening it wide to reveal her maid, Sophie.

"Did you bring him?" asked Gerald.

"He's right here," Sophie said, then called out, "Tempus!"

The large Kurathian Mastiff bounded down the hall, halting at the door to stare at his mistress, his tail wagging.

"There," soothed Gerald, "now you're all set."

"I can't take Tempus with me," Anna argued, "he'll scare them."

"Nonsense," he replied, "he's docile. And besides, no noble's going to argue with you if he's present."

Anna held her arms out towards Gerald, and the old soldier stepped forward, embracing her.

He could feel her trembling and tried to soothe her. "It'll be all right, Anna," he promised. "We're all in this together." He waited until she gathered her composure before he let go. "Now, let's get you out there, shall we?"

She nodded her head in approval as Tempus took up his place beside her. Gerald peeked out into the great hall again and spotted Hayley close by, their eyes locking for an instant as he nodded his head. The ranger whispered to the steward, and then a horn sounded, the chatter in the room tapering off into silence.

"Announcing," boomed a voice, "Her Royal Highness, Princess Anna of Merceria."

Gerald opened the door, standing to the side as Anna and Tempus entered the hall. There were a few gasps from the audience at the sight of the great dog, but they were quickly drowned out by cheers. It seemed the commoners loved their princess.

He watched as she made her way to the throne at the end of the hall, where Beverly stood with a line of knights and soldiers in front, facing the crowd. As the young princess approached, Beverly turned to bow in her direction, then took up a position to the right of the throne.

Gerald felt someone just behind him and turned to see Sophie peering over his shoulder.

"Come on," he said to her, "let's go inside and get a better view, shall we?"

They stepped through the door, closing it behind them and watched, mesmerized as Anna took her place before the warrior's throne. She held her hands up in front of her to still the voices, and after a bit, the cheering finally subsided.

"Mercerians," she began, "we stand here, today, after a savage civil war. With that conflict concluded, it is time that we band together to build a new future, one free from oppression and corruption. As your new sovereign, I wish to make it clear that under my rule, things will change. When I first took up arms in defence of this realm, it was to protect the common folk, for without you, there can be no nobility or even royalty. It is the obligation of the nobles to look after the commoners, and I intend to do just that."

She glanced towards Gerald, and he could see the sweat on her brow. He nodded at her, watching her take a deep breath even as her left hand sought the head of Tempus.

"As victor and rightful ruler of Merceria," she continued, "it is my duty and pleasure to reward those that have been so instrumental in our success. First, I call upon Lady Aubrey Brandon."

There was a bit of a stir as the young mage pushed her way through the crowd to come before the princess, bending down upon one knee.

"Be it known," Anna continued, "that from this day forth, you shall be recognized as Lady Aubrey Brandon, Baroness of Hawksburg." She waited a moment for the applause to die down, then continued, "Arise, Lady Aubrey."

Aubrey stood, and Anna embraced her, exchanging some quiet words. The baroness backed up, then turned and resumed her place in the crowd.

"That's no surprise," muttered Gerald.

"Wait, there's more coming," whispered Sophie.

Gerald looked at her in surprise, "Really? Tell me."

"Shush, now," said Sophie, a wicked grin on her face, "she's about to speak again."

Gerald returned his gaze to the ceremony.

Now that Aubrey had returned to her previous position, Anna looked like she was seeking someone else in the crowd. Gerald noticed a smile appear on her face as she spotted Prince Alric. The young man was surrounded by a group of his own guards, many in commoner's clothes so as not to create a stir. Gerald knew that Anna and Alric would eventually marry, but they had both agreed that she must put her kingdom to rights first. For now, at least, Alric was just a friendly face in the crowd and a staunch ally.

"I call on Hayley Chambers," declared Anna.

"What?" called out the ranger in surprise. Recovering quickly, she continued, "I mean, yes, Your Highness." Hayley had been standing with the other knights that formed the princess's guard and now turned, moving to kneel before her sovereign.

"Dame Hayley," Anna proclaimed, "from this day forward, you shall be Lady Hayley Chambers, Baroness of Queenston."

Gerald chuckled as Hayley's eyes bulged. Even Sophie failed to stifle a laugh.

"Well deserved," said Sophie, once she caught her breath.

Hayley stood to be embraced by Anna. Gerald wondered what the nobles thought of this, for he knew that King Andred would never have touched a subject, let along embrace them in public.

Before the ranger was allowed to leave, however, Anna spoke once more. "In recognition of your new title and elevation to the ranks of the nobility, we entrust you with this coat of arms."

Two servants came forth, bearing a covered shield. They held it up, facing the crowd, as Anna pulled the cover loose. The cloth fell to the floor, revealing the shield's heraldic symbol, that of a gryphon.

Even from the door, Gerald could see the tears in Hayley's eyes. The young ranger gratefully took the shield, returning to the crowd and her mage, Revi Bloom.

"And now," Anna continued, "with today's proclamations behind us, I have one more announcement. I call on every noble of the realm to assemble here, in Wincaster, by the end of the month to pledge their oath of allegiance. Word shall be sent throughout the kingdom that any who fail to show themselves, without just cause, will be stricken from the ranks of nobility."

She nodded to Beverly, who then gave a command. All the knights snapped to attention, garnering the interest of the crowd. The horn sounded once more as Anna left the room, heading directly for Gerald, who opened the door and followed her, along with Sophie. The young maid closed the door as Anna sat down on a nearby chair.

"How was it?" the princess asked.

"You did well," said Gerald. "They loved you."

"I'm not so sure of that," Anna replied. "I saw several disgruntled nobles out there. Do you think they'll all show up for the oath?"

"I should think so," mused Gerald. "Nobody wants to throw their title away. What was that bit about just cause?"

"That was for Baron Fitzwilliam's benefit," she said. "I need him back in Bodden, keeping an eye on things. I did mention it to him beforehand. Beverly will take the oath on his behalf."

"The other nobles won't like that," said Gerald. "She's not the baron, AND she's a woman."

"They'd best get used to it," she replied, "things are going to be different around here from now on."

"That's the old Anna I know," he said, "but don't try to rush too much through too quickly. We've only just won the war, remember. There's likely still a lot of hard feelings going around."

"I know," she said, "and I'll take it slowly."

"So now that your big debut is over, what's next?" he asked.

"Simple," she replied, "we go and mingle."

"Mingle?" he said. "Surely not, it's too dangerous!"

"I insist," she said. "I'm the people's princess. I want to be amongst them, and no one's going to try to kill me in front of so many witnesses."

"She has a point," offered Sophie. "The crowd would rip any would-be assassin to bits."

"I suppose," said Gerald, "but I must insist you have protection at all times."

"Of course," said Anna, smiling at him, "that's what you're here for."

Gerald moved towards the door again, making ready to open it.

"Not yet," said Anna.

"Why not?" he asked.

"I want to change into something more comfortable first. You wait here with Tempus. Come along, Sophie."

They exited the room, leaving the old warrior alone with the great mastiff. Gerald looked down at the beast and rubbed his head in fondness. "Well, my old friend," he said, "what do you think?"

Tempus's bark echoed in his head.

Prince Alric of Weldwyn looked about the great hall. "Well, Jack," he said, "I'd say the princess made quite an impression."

"I'd have to agree," said the cavalier, "though I was a little surprised when she handed out two baronies. If I'd known they were up for grabs, I'd have put my name in the hat."

Alric chuckled, "You're already in line for a viscountcy, Jack, a barony would be a step-down."

"Yes," the cavalier agreed, "but they come with young women, don't they?"

"Is that all you ever think about?" asked the prince.

"No," he admitted, "I also think about jousting. Why, is there more?"

Alric was just about to respond that there was, but the smirk on the cavalier's face told him he had taken the bait. "What shall I do with you, Jack?"

The cavalier's attention was suddenly occupied by Lady Aubrey, who was moving towards them.

"Baroness Brandon," said Jack in exaggerated tones, "so good of you to come slum with us common folk."

The young woman looked shocked at the comment, and Alric had to act quickly to rectify the situation, "He's just jesting. Please don't take offence."

"Of course not," she said, recovering swiftly. "Her Highness wanted me to make sure you had received your invitation to dinner."

"I did," replied Alric, "and I shall be delighted to be there. Tell me, is it to be a private affair?"

"Only if you think a dozen or so people is private," shared Aubrey. "Though, I daresay that in the coming days, you'll have ample opportunity for 'alone time' with the princess."

"Ah yes, alone," said Alric, "that usually means just the two of us along with half a dozen bodyguards."

"We must protect her," defended Aubrey. "There's still a lot of bad blood from the war."

"Of course," he replied, bowing, "I meant no disrespect. Please, let her know I'll be there."

"You can tell her yourself, if you like," said Aubrey, "she'll be returning here once she's changed."

"Alas, I cannot," responded Alric. "I have letters to write, and we agreed that we should not make our relationship known officially. To the court, we are just allies. I think it easier to maintain that facade if I were to be absent for the rest of this celebration. Please convey my apologies."

"Of course," said Aubrey. "How about you, Lord Marlowe?"

"Much as I'd like to stick around," said Jack, "my place is beside my prince."

"Then I shall see you both this evening," said Aubrey, "and I bid you good afternoon, Your Highness."

"And to you, Lady Aubrey," said Alric.

Revi Bloom smiled back at Hayley, her happiness contagious. "Congratulations," he said, "you've earned it."

"Did you know anything about it?" she asked.

"No," he admitted, "it was a complete surprise to me."

"I would never have expected it. What would my father have thought, I wonder?"

"I expect he'd be as shocked as you," offered the mage. "Imagine, a poacher's daughter now a baroness."

"It isn't as strange as you might think," offered a voice.

They turned to see Commander Lanaka, the Kurathian warrior and leader of the light horse.

"Why would you say that?" asked Revi.

"I've been learning a lot about you Mercerians," he answered. "There were no nobles in the original founders, you know. It was simply mercenary captains giving themselves titles."

"He's right," agreed Revi, "though that was quite some time ago."

"Tell me, Lanaka," asked Hayley, "now that the war's over, what do you intend to do?"

"Settle down, of course," he replied, "and maybe bring the word of the Saints to you heathens." He grinned to indicate he meant no offence.

"So you're going to find yourself a nice little wife and put the horses out to pasture?" asked Hayley.

"No," he replied, "I'm already married. A group of us are going home to retrieve our families. The princess promised us land grants if we settle. This is a rare opportunity for us."

"Why?" asked Hayley. "Don't you have land for sale back home?"

"No," Lanaka replied. "In the Kurathian Isles, there is no land available. It was portioned out long ago, and the islands are overcrowded. That's why we became mercenaries in the first place, to try to accumulate wealth."

"How's that been working out for you?" asked Revi.

"Not well, I'm afraid," confessed the mercenary, "but now you've given us a home. It means a lot."

"And if the Kurathians invade us at some point in the future, will you fight them?" asked the mage.

"Of course," he replied, "we are Mercerians now. We have pledged our service to the princess."

"Well, I, for one," said Hayley, "am glad to have you on our side."

"As am I," added Revi. "Now tell me, do Kurathians drink?"

"Do fish swim?" asked Lanaka. "Of course we drink, I'd have thought you knew that by now."

"Then maybe you might like to drop by later and share a drink with us?" said Revi.

"With us?" said Hayley in surprise. "As in, we're sharing a house now?"

"Well," said Revi, blushing slightly, "that is if you want to? I don't want to pressure you or anything."

In answer, she turned back to Lanaka, "Yes, do come and visit US, Lanaka. I need witnesses."

"I should be delighted," he said, "though I fear it will be after the council meeting."

"Oh, yes," said Revi, "I'd forgotten about that. It'll probably go quite late."

"We could do it tomorrow night," suggested Hayley.

"Yes," agreed Revi, "right after I meet with the Mages Council."

"That won't work," the ranger complained. “You're just setting it up, you'll be there all night."

"How about the next day, then?" asked Revi.

"I have to deal with reorganizing the rangers," said Hayley, "I told you that already."

"Not to worry," said Lanaka, "we shall arrange it when we are all available, we are at peace now, after all. Don't worry, eventually we'll find time for merriment."

Sir Arnim Caster, Knight of the Hound, looked over his soldiers. They were lined up in the hallway, waiting to take up their guard positions under his watchful eye.

"Now, remember," he said, "the war might be over, but you must still be vigilant. If anything appears out of the ordinary, give a shout of warning. Is that clear?"

"Yes, sir," they all replied.

"Arnim," called out a familiar voice.

The knight couldn't help but smile as his wife, Lady Nicole, entered the hallway.

"There you are," she said, drawing closer. "What are you up to?"

"I'm seeing to the Royal Guard," he explained. "This is no time to be lax about these things. There could be enemies at loose in the Palace."

She looked at him in understanding, then continued with her interrogation. "Surely these men can deploy themselves? They've been at it now for weeks."

"It is my duty," Arnim replied obstinately. "Why do you ask?"

"I'm waiting for you to come and dance with me, husband," she said.

"I'll be there as soon as my duty permits," he replied. "I promise, Nikki."

A smirk fell across the face of one of the guards. Arnim wheeled on him suddenly, his face a mask of fury, "Something funny, Baker?"

The man's face became set in stone, "No, sir. Sorry, sir."

"Very well," Arnim said, eyeing the man carefully. He waited a moment longer before looking back to his wife, "I'll be along directly, my dear, as soon as I've seen to these..."

"Soldiers?" she supplied.

"Yes," he agreed, "though I'm loath to apply the name to them."

Nikki watched as Arnim marched them down the hall and then turned the corner, disappearing from sight. She sighed and then resumed her journey to the great hall.

Lord Richard Fitzwilliam watched as Princess Anna made her way through the crowd.

"She looks so regal," said Albreda, "far older than the little girl I first met."

"Indeed," said Fitz. "Did I ever tell you about the first time I met her?"

"No," lied Albreda, who had heard the story many times before, "do tell."

"I was visiting Uxley," he continued, "and Gerald and the princess played a prank on me, pretending she was a hunchback."

"You should have known better," said Albreda, "and what if she had been? Would it have made any difference?"

"Well, no, I suppose not," he sputtered.

He was saved from further explanation by the arrival of the princess and Gerald.

"Baron Fitzwilliam," said Anna, "so good of you to be here."

"Your Highness," said Fitz, "it is my privilege."

"Albreda," added Anna, "your presence is also greatly appreciated. I hear you'll be joining the discussion this evening?"

"I shall," said Albreda. "This Mages Council sounds interesting."

"That reminds me of something," said Anna, motioning to Sophie, who stood nearby. The young maid came forward, scroll case in hand. The princess took it, passing it to the druid.

"What's this?" asked Albreda.

"A Royal Pardon," replied Anna.

"A what?" asked Fitz.

"It came to my attention," said the princess, "that years ago, Albreda was found guilty of the crime of witchcraft."

Fitz turned to the druid in surprise, "Is this true?"

"It is," she admitted, "though I must confess I give it little thought these days."

"I read the transcripts of the trial," said Anna, "and I must say it was a grave miscarriage of justice. I have used my prerogative to overrule the charges and to issue the pardon. You are now free to visit any part of the realm you wish, though I daresay you could have done that at any time without it."

"I don't know what to say," admitted Albreda, "you've found me at a loss for words."

"I'll take it," offered Fitz. "We can frame it and hang it somewhere for all to see."

"Don't be ridiculous, Richard," said Albreda, "who wants to look at a pardon?"

"I would," said the baron. "It will remind me of you when you're away."

She smiled, "Very well, I accept your offer, Princess."

"What do you plan to do now that the war's over?" asked Gerald.

"I had thought to stay in Wincaster a little while," answered the druid, "then join the baron back in Bodden. I'm fascinated by this idea of a magic council. How do you see it working, Highness?"

"I should think much like the one in Weldwyn," offered Anna. "In that kingdom, mages are not allowed to rule. Instead, they carry out their magical studies and act as a source of information for the crown."

"A most logical way of organizing things," agreed Albreda. "I also thought I might pass on some of my knowledge, it appears some of our mages are lacking the basics of the craft."

"You're speaking of Revi Bloom, aren't you?" said Gerald. "He's mostly self-taught."

"So was I," defended Albreda, "and it didn't stop me from developing more power."

"I wish you luck, then," offered Gerald, "you'll have a hard time dragging him away from the magical flames, or temples, or whatever it is we're calling them these days."

"I believe the correct term is magical portals," offered Albreda, "though each mage seems to prefer their own name."

"And what do you make of our mages?" asked Anna.

"It's a diverse group," observed the druid. "A good choice to make up a council of spellcasters. I'm much impressed by Lady Aubrey, she has come a long way in her studies in rather a short time, the mark of a great mage. I look forward to working with her."

"And the rest?" pressed Anna.

"They are all men, and like most male mages, are consumed by their studies. I find women see the larger picture."

"Which is?" asked Fitz.

"We must establish a system of apprenticeship, or all of our knowledge will die with us. We can hardly return to the days before the war."

"In that, we are in agreement," said Anna. "I know that Revi is proposing a school of some sort. I was planning on funding it, but with the expenses incurred by the war, that will have to be put on hold."

"An academy," said Albreda, "I hadn't thought of that. I shall have to give it some consideration."

"In the meantime," suggested the baron, "might I tempt you with a little Hawksburg red?"