Courtly Love (20 page)

"My husband refused, of course, and Robert took ship back to Normandy where he and his allies tried to storm Rouen and failed. There was no other course left to William: He issued orders that Robert be arrested. But our son and his fellow rebels had already fled into France. Have you any idea what it cost William to declare his own son a rebel, a traitor? Despite what you may have heard, Lady Serena, my husband is a just and honorable man; he has shown mercy to those who have opposed him numerous times. William has no desire to spill blood senselessly, that I earnestly pray you to believe, but he will brook no interference with his rule. Rebels must be dissuaded from their purpose or he will be forced to deal harshly with them—be they Saxons who wish a Saxon king for England or Normans who desire a different Norman to rule Normandy. If your brother is involved in these rebel activities, and my husband believes he is, there is still time to save him from the executioner."

"You are asking me to betray my brother!"

"Nay, child, nay." Matilda leaned forward intently. "To save him, and your king. If Bryan is captured during a raid or arrested while he is spreading treason, there will be no choice left to William but to order his death."

Serena's bottom lip caught between her teeth. "If I do as you ask, what assurance have I that no harm will come to Bryan?"

"William will give you his solemn oath if you wish; but for now you have my word that your brother will be safe."

"Very well, Your Highness," Serena decided. "I shall do as you ask. What will you have of me?"

"Persuade your brother to give up his activities before he is discovered. Bryan is also at court now, so you will have many opportunities to speak with him."

"I shall do my best, Your Majesty. I have no desire to see Bryan's head on a pike." Serena rose. Everything had been so carefully arranged: her private audience with the queen, Matilda's pretended confidences of her marriage.
Oh yes. Gyles had been right, Serena did indeed have much to learn of court life
. "Your Majesty, did Gyles . . . my husband, did he know of the king's reason for our summons to court?"

Matilda looked up in surprise. "Gyles was summoned because he has been absent too long from court. I would guess that he did not attend us last year because of your pending marriage."

"Then you will no longer wish me to attend you?"

"Au contraire, little one. You appeal to me far more than any of my other ladies, and I would be devastated should you not wish to serve me." Matilda's eyes sparkled, yet it was clear to Serena that Matilda meant what she said. "Now, child, you would not disappoint an old woman, would you?"

Matilda was charming; Serena found herself liking her, for she was a kind woman who had not altered when she became queen. She was a woman concerned primarily with the welfare of her husband and children and very little with the affairs of state except when it directly affected her family. Perhaps it was because Matilda treated Serena more like a daughter than the wife of one of her husband's lords, but for whatever reason, for the first time since learning that she would go to court, Serena looked forward to her stay. Serena sank down before Matilda and put her hands between the queen's in the accepted gesture of servitude.

"If it please you, Your Majesty, I shall be most honored to wait upon you."

"Bien," Matilda said quietly. This Saxon lass was indeed special. When Matilda had learned that Sir Gyles had wed, she had been surprised . . . and shocked as well, for she remembered Gyles and his previous behavior at court all too well. A bastard like her husband, Gyles carried in his heart a burning anger against all women and had bedded the women of court not only because of a physical need but also, Matilda thought, because he enjoyed being able to ignore them completely the following day. One small piece of revenge for the lifetime of shame he endured because of ore woman's moment of weakness. That Matilda could well understand, for her own husband labored under the same black stigma of bastardy, yet William's reaction to his illegitimate birth had been completely different from Gyles's. Throughout the years, William had remained faithful to her, never allowing another woman to know his favor; yet at the same time William was unfailingly polite and courteous to those women who lived at or visited the court.

Matilda studied Serena as the young girl worked the snood into place on the queen's hair. Such an innocent, young thing to be wed to such as Gyles. Yet, there was strength beneath that delicate exterior, Matilda sensed; strength Serena would need aplenty to survive a marriage to Gyles. A pretty child, Matilda mused, but how had Serena come to the attention of the lord of Camden; and more puzzling still, what quality did Serena possess that could persuade Gyles to wed her? Was it possible— just possible—that that fierce Norman knight had found his heart's ease in this beautiful Saxon lass? Matilda gave a slow smile to Serena as she stepped back to survey her handiwork.

"Do not frown so, Serena, you will ruin your lovely brow." Matilda indicated a looking glass on the table beside her and Serena handed it to the queen silently, waiting nervously while Matilda scrutinized her reflection. "Lovely, child. Now, in the wardrobe you will find a gown of burgundy velvet and slippers that match."

Serena complied and soon Matilda was fully dressed save for the gold circlet that was her crown. Serena reached for it, then hesitated, uncertain whether she was allowed to touch the symbol of authority.

"Vite, vitel Above all, William detests tardiness," Matilda urged. Serena snatched the crown from its resting place without a second thought and secured it firmly atop Matilda's hair. "Good," Matilda sighed. "I am ready. Come, we shall collect the rest of the ladies along the way."

Matilda kept Serena by her side as they hurried through the halls to gather the remainder of her entourage and rushed the rest of the way to the banquet hall. At the entrance. Matilda came to an abrupt halt, patting her hair and smoothing her gown to assure that her appearance was perfect. When she turned to Serena, Matilda's face had assumed a regal air, but a hint of warmth still glinted in her green eyes.

"I know you wish to sup with your husband, Lady Serena, so I give you my permission to do so. But I shall require your assistance when I retire. D'accord?"

"
Oui, Sa Majesti
," Serena agreed. "Merci."

Matilda's eyes twinkled. "Then run along and enjoy your first evening at court. And, Lady Serena," Matilda halted Serena in mid-turn. "Do not break too many hearts."

* * *

Serena strolled among the clusters of people in the hall, anxious to find Gyles, yet eager to explore the new and exciting world of William's court. So many people! Serena's eyes widened in anticipation. There was much to be learned and experienced here: People from all parts of the continent had come to pay their respects to William. Even with her limited knowledge of the French tongue, Serena could hear the different dialects that were being spoken. She must remember to ask Gyles about that! William and Matilda had entered the hall, but were not seated at the table so Serena had some time yet to locate Gyles. Serena glanced around the hall and nearly stamped her foot in frustration. As tall as he was, Gyles should stand out even in this overcrowded room, but Serena could not see him.

"Are you lost, Lady Serena?" A harsh voice beside her caused Serena to jump. William Rufus stood so closely by her side that Serena could smell the wine on his breath as he regarded her appraisingly from heavy-lidded eyes. "My mother is not here to protect you now," William sneered.

Serena's chin lifted. "I do not require protection, Your Majesty. I am quite capable of doing that for myself."

"Are you indeed?" William's knuckles caressed her jawline. "You are far different from the other Saxon women I have met. At least you do not smell as badly as most."

"I regret I cannot say the same for you," Serena snapped then smiled as William's face went rigid with anger. Serena leaned toward him and spoke with great precision. "You are in need of a bath, William Rufus, and I, mere Saxon woman that I am, find you offensive."

William's hands clenched at his sides. "You are insolent, madame, and you take a great risk. For your words alone, I could have you flogged!"

Serena's smile did not waver. "Do as you please, Your Highness, I am sure the court would be very impressed by that display of your power."

William's fingers caught Serena's wrist. "No one else would ever know," William threatened.

"And my husband?" Serena asked softly.

"Would not dare interfere with a royal order," Wiliam sneered.

"How convenient." Serena forced a lightness she did not feel into her voice for the benefit of a passing lord. "Now I know the secret of your attraction to women —you threaten them with the power of your royal position." But Serena was thinking, God help us if this man becomes king! She glanced around and nearly fainted with relief when she saw Gyles making his way to her from across the room. "My husband is coming, Your Highness. Shall I introduce you?"

"We have already met." William released her wrist and stamped off.

Serena lost no time in hurrying to Gyles. "Where have you been? I have been looking all over the hall for you."

Gyles held the hand Serena extended and smiled down at her. "I encountered some old friends, cherie, and stopped to pass the time. How fared you with the queen?"

"Quite well, I think, but I shall tell you of that later. She has released me from any duties until she retires so I may spend the entire evening with you. You must show me everything, Gyles, and introduce me to your friends."

"Nothing would please me more, Serena, but 'tis impossible tonight. The king has called a council after the meal." Gyles dropped an arm about Serena's shoulders. "I am sorry, but we will be here for a long time and there will be many opportunities for me to present you. Ah, 'tis time for the meal. Come."

While they ate, Serena was acutely aware that she was being watched and looked up, expecting to find William Rufus glaring at her, but instead she intercepted a look between Gyles and the most striking woman Serena had ever seen. The woman's raven hair showed blue-black through the gold of her snood, her complexion was as pure as milk and her black eyes were as slanted as those of a cat's. When the meal was over and she rose, Serena was awed by her perfect stature, for the woman was taller than herself by a good head and shoulders, and although she appeared the same age as Gyles, her willowy figure bore none of the disfigurements of childbearing.

"Gyles," Serena tugged on his sleeve when the woman had turned from the table. "Do you know that woman?"

"Which one?" Gyles asked disinterestedly.

"Don't be stubborn! The one who kept looking at you during the meal. The beautiful one with the black hair." Serena nodded her head toward the woman. "Well, do you know her?"

"Yes," Gyles answered shortly.

"For heaven's sake, Gyles, must I drag it out of you? What is her name?"

"Her name is Elspeth, she is very rich. I met her at court several years ago, and she has recently been widowed. Does that satisfy your curiosity?" Gyles said curtly.

Serena regarded her husband with icy curiosity. "I beg your pardon, Gyles! I did not know her identity was such a secret. And as my questions seem to affront you, I am certain you will be glad to be relieved of my companionship for the remainder of the evening. Adieu, m'lord."

"Serena, wait!" Gyles rose along with her.

"For what?" Serena snapped, then pulled her dignity around her injured feelings. "The king is leaving, Gyles, should you not attend him?"

The hand Gyles had stretched out to Serena fell uselessly to his side. "I shall wait for you in our chamber."

"You needn't bother," Serena told him coolly. "I shall try not to wake you when I return."

Gyles made one last effort to soothe her affronted pride. "I should like to hear about your first day in court"

Serena's anger ebbed away as Gyles took her hand and raised it to his mouth, kissing each of her fingers in turn, his green eyes growing quite warm as he stared down at her. "If you are still awake when I return," Serena agreed, "I should like to tell you of my day."

Gyles bent to kiss her cheek. "Try not to be too long, cherie. Come to me as soon as you can; I shall be waiting." And then he was gone, leaving Serena wondering whether she was still angry with him for his brusque remarks or if she had already completely forgiven him.

All thoughts of her husband were wiped from Serena's mind as she was caught from behind to be held in a crushing embrace.

"Serena, dearest sister!" Bryan laughed at her as she struggled to be free. "I see Gyles has not succeeded in subduing your spirit."

Serena shook herself free of Bryan's arms and grinned back at him. "You need a good lesson in manners, Bryan. Nellwyn failed miserably with you." But she took the arm he offered and they proceeded to wander through the hall.

"When did you arrive?" Bryan asked when they had found a secluded corner.

"Only today, but I have already met the queen and am serving as one of her ladies."

"Perhaps you can teach these oafish Norman women some of your charms."

"Bryan," Serena rebuked him. "The queen is a most gracious woman and she speaks most highly of the king."

"Did you expect she would not?" Bryan glared. "Look at the way these pompous Normans strut about."

"Bryan, please!" Serena said nervously. "You mustn't say things like that! It could get you into trouble."

Bryan eyed her suspiciously. "I am speaking only to my sister; how could that be dangerous? Unless she has forgotten her Saxon heritage as so many others have."

" 'Tis of no use trying to make me feel guilty, Bryan, because what I say is for your own good." Serena placed a hand on Bryan's arm. "Will you calm yourself and listen to me? The queen asked me to speak to you—"

"The queen!" Bryan snorted. "What are you supposed to make me do—fight for William? Well, he will wait a long time for that to happen."

"Bryan, I don't wish to fight with you. Please, only listen to me."

Bryan sighed and drew his sister a goodly distance from the majority of the people. "Serena, I have no desire to fight with you either, but I am certain I already know what you are to tell me. It is what father has been saying to me for the past year, is it not? You never took sides before your marriage and I ask you to do the same now."

"Only listen to me, Bryan," Serena pleaded.

Bryan smiled affectionately. "You are stubborn, sister. Very well, say what you will if 'twill put your mind at ease."

"I don't know what you have been doing, Bryan, but I can well imagine. A raiding party here and there; inciting others to treason; revolt against William. Am I fairly accurate?" Bryan nodded reluctantly and Serena drew a deep breath. "And what have you accomplished? Nothing! Nothing has changed, Bryan. Be reasonable; eleven years have passed since William defeated Harold at Hastings."

"Murdered would be more like it," Bryan said grimly.

"No, Bryan, William was the victor of a fair battle and you know that is the truth. You also know that William's claim to England's throne was every bit as valid as Harold's. 'Twas Harold who caused the loss of so many Saxon lives by his refusal to accept William as the successor to the throne."

"Edward was half-Norman himself, that pious monk! Who else would he select, having no heir of his own? For twelve years Harold loyally served and protected this realm—'twas right and just that he should be our king."

"Right or wrong, Bryan, William was named as successor, not Harold!"

"There were no witnesses to that, Serena, only William's word that Edward chose him."

Serena passed a hand over her eyes. "All right, I will grant you that point. But William was the victor and thus gained the right to the throne."

"His throne is drenched with Saxon blood, Serena! Can you forget that?"

"Bryan, I was only seven at the time and you were but nine. Be reasonable, how much do either of us remember about Edward or Harold?"

"I do not have to remember them in order to dislike being ruled by a Norman pig! Do you not wish for a king of our own people? I do! I wish to see a Saxon once more on England's throne."

"How will you accomplish that? And who will ascend the throne? Edgar the Atheling—a weak, sickly boy who has never even seen England? There are others who covet the throne as well, but that way brings destruction; brother set against brother, as each does battle to see his favorite wear the crown. Would you deliver England to such a fate? It is futile, Bryan! Have we not seen more than enough bloodshed as we grew up?"

Bryan rounded on Serena, his dark blue eyes flashing into hers. "Yes, "I've seen enough bloodshed—enough to last me the rest of my life! I have seen decent, kind men stripped of their lands and Norman lords put in their place. I have watched as William's brave knights dragged our countrymen out of their castles and out onto the green to be tortured before—if they were lucky—the knights killed them. Shall I tell you what the Normans do, Serena? They heat their daggers until they show red-hot, then the prisoners are stripped of their garments. They lay their blades upon the prisoner's naked skin until his flesh is peeled off in strips. Do you know what happens to a Saxon man if he dares to look upon a Norman lady? They castrate him, Serena. If a Saxon woman gazes at a Norman man, he can have her—"

"Stop, Bryan! Were any of our fine, Saxon laws any better? We killed starving serfs for killing game that would feed their families. Was that fair? We beat our housecarls as if they were beasts if they were slow in obeying an order. Was that just or merciful? Norman or Saxon, it makes no difference. Both can be cruel. Are we any better, Bryan? Are you just when you raid villages and slay innocent men, women, and children? Or does your end justify such atrocities!" Serena halted, her breast heaving in anger and concern for her brother's life.

Bryan stared at her, his mouth hanging open. "I have killed no innocents," he said slowly.

"Not yet, but you will eventually, won't you?" Serena shook Bryan by his shoulders. "Won't you? Some of your men already have, haven't they? How long will it take before you become as bloodstained as they are?"

"Don't, Serena," Bryan croaked.

"How long, Bryan?" Serena asked sharply. "How long before you become as beastial as you claim the Normans are? Will I some day awake to find you holding a blade to my children's throats because they have Norman blood running through their veins? Will you kill me because I married a Norman?"

Bryan was appalled. "I would never harm you or yours, sister. I would turn the blade upon myself before I would permit that."

"That is what you say now, but will it be true a day, a week, a year from now? What do you think will happen to our family if you are arrested for treason? You and I are young and strong, but our father is not. He would not survive imprisonment. And if, by some miracle, you were released, where would you go? Your lands would have been gifted to some Norman lord the moment you were taken."

"What would you have me do, Serena, turn my back on all I believe? Do you think so little of me?"

"Nay, Bryan, just the opposite. Our parents taught us never to take the coward's way out. If you want to fight for our people, then fight! But not with a sword and armor, not by committing treason. Father is part of William's council, and when he dies, you will take his place. There you will be able to do much good for England. Fight if you must, but do it peacefully." Serena reached out and grasped Bryan's hands. "Dearest Bryan, I have no wish to see your head on a pike. I beg you to consider your actions."

Bryan pulled Serena into his arms for a quick hug. "I shall think on your words, but I make you no promises —yet."