Chapter 29 - 1303
Despite the early August stifling heat, Eloise’s funeral was widely attended. Provence was a highly respected man. Along with the family and the entire casale, nobles and knights from nearby casalia had come to pay their last respects.
Standing behind them, Kontostephanos broke out in a cold sweat, nauseated. He felt discomfort in his chest and mopped his forehead with his sleeve, lightheaded. He grimaced and shifted his weight, breathing heavily. His knees began to tremble.
“Pappou, are you all right?” Lois asked, but he did not respond. The priest’s chanting and the women’s keening filled the hot, humid air, as Kontostephanos fought for breath. Lois had never seen him like this. She stared at him with apprehension. “Pappou, do you want to sit down?”
Kontostephanos’
