Velvet & steel (21 page)

The trip back to London was not as slow, as comfortable, or as happy as the first had been; it took only one full day of hard riding. They arrived late in the day, and by the time the group was settled, it was too late to find any answers to their questions. What they did hear was not too pleasing: the king had returned that morning and was not in the best of moods.

It worried them to find out that Tearlach had been with the king for most of the time he had been back.

Robert found sleep an impossibility and sat in the shadowed hall contemplating a horn of ale, and murderous thoughts against Tearlach.

He dozed as the fire grew lower and lower, and a pounding on the door went unnoticed for a few minutes before it drew his attention. Since no one else was awake, he stumbled to the door himself, promising vengeance on the careless person who chose to call at this hour.

The young man who appeared before him was reasonably sure he was not going to be greeted warmly. He began to speak before Robert could demand the reason for his presence. In the darkness Robert did not see how the visitor was dressed.

"I seek Robert Debayeaux."

"I am Robert Debayeaux. Who seeks me?"

"I am come from the king, sir. He bids you attend him at once."

"Now?"

"Aye, sir, now. He bids you to bring no one and tell no one where you go. Come by the back entrance, and someone will be waiting for you."

Robert wasn't sure it was not some kind of trick, but could think of no one who sought his death. Then the clouds covering the moon drifted past, and he recognized the king's messenger.

"I will be there as fast as I can." The young man nodded, but waited expectantly. "All right, I'm coming now."

By the time Robert found his cloak and returned to the door, he expected the messenger to be gone. But he'd waited. Robert smiled, realizing the man intended to see he didn't dally.

They rode without a word, and the young man took Robert's horse's reins as soon as he dismounted. Robert took the few steps to the back door, and found it opening before he could knock. He was ushered inside and was quickly beckoned up the stairs.

William stood by a nearly dead fire awaiting him. He was completely alone, and this was enough to make Robert understand that he was to share a secret that William would most likely deny should word of it go beyond this room.

"Robert, thank you for your prompt attendance. Come and share a horn of ale with me. There is much of great importance I must discuss with you. Who in your household knows you have come?"

"No one. I was awake and answered the door myself. As far as anyone in the household knows, I am abed like the others."

"Good."

"What can be of such importance?"

"A matter that concerns our mutual friend."

"Royce? I have heard rumors, and Beltane was at Creganwald. It seem he is sure of possession ... and Eldwyn is dead and buried."

"Aye, I had word. How was Beltane welcomed at Creganwald?"

"Not as you have been led to believe." He went on to tell William the tale of Beltane's ejection from Creganwald. "He had no concern that the girl had just buried her father, and I truly believe he would have taken her on her father's grave if the opportunity had presented itself," Robert finished with a disgusted look.

"Robert.. . would Royce fight for her?"

"What?"

"I said, would Royce fight for her?"

"Aye, he would take on the whole of England for her, I've no doubt of that. But why should he fight for what has been given him freely?"

"Because a petition has been laid before me, adorned with a promise made so long past that I had forgotten."

"Petition? Tearlach?"

"Aye."

"He wants Creganwald for Beltane... and to strike Royce."

"Aye."

"Say him nay, my lord. For if he holds Creganwald, there will be no safety for you. Who would know whom he dealt with and opened his harbor to if he ruled there? He would betray you, or Beltane would."

"And yet I cannot say him nay."

"Why?"

"Because I must pay the debt I owe or have him forever about my neck, claiming that my word is without foundation."

"Then you will agree? You cannot. Your word has already been given to Royce."

"Why do you think I question you about his regard for this maid and Creganwald? Will he fight for her, Robert?" William's voice was firm and ungiving.

"Why? When? How do you propose this battle?"

"Royce must challenge Beltane as soon as the word is given, and in front of the entire court, so that none will believe I took part in this."

"Do you think Tearlach will let Beltane fall into that trap? He will caution Beltane to refuse to answer Royce's challenge, and there will be nothing Royce can do about it."

"Unless he forces the matter."

"How?"

"Royce knows Beltane's weaknesses well. He has longed to cross swords with him, but I have put a stop to it. I cannot stop him if he feels the cause is just, and he wants to claim that his honor has been slighted."

"It has been slighted. Royce would feel you had betrayed him. He has stood firm in your honor, trusting in your word."

"There are times, Robert, when a king must do ... things he would not choose to do. I would choose to have Royce at Creganwald, but Tearlach presses me hard to honor that vow of long ago. I have need of my 'sword,' but I cannot ask Royce directly, or word will reach Tearlach's ears. This challenge must come from Royce, and his anger at me will make it believable."

"When?"

"When the decision is announced."

"Before the whole court?"

"Aye, that is the best place. Then Beltane will have too much pride to back away."

"Has it occurred to you that Royce might lose such a battle?"

William smiled at Robert. "Has it occurred to you that he would?"

"Nay." Robert smiled in return.

"Robert ... if Royce sees this as betrayal, he may be too angry to issue a challenge. It might be better if you were to insert the idea subtly and allow things to take their course."

"I am not to warn him of what is to happen?"

"His response might be more... unrestrained if you were to... suggest that he be prepared to defend what he desires. Let him know that I will look favorably upon the winner. If Tearlach were to get wind of this before it happened ... If word were brought to him that you had prepared Royce for such an event..."

"How would such word reach his ears?"

"I cannot name anyone, but I feel there is someone within Royce's household."

"A spy? Within our house!"

"Word cannot have leaked out any other way. Every move you make is known by Tearlach."

"I cannot believe that any of our men ..." he paused.

"You have a name?"

"Lady Oriel," Robert said angrily. "It could be no one but she. She has had her eye on wedding Royce one day, and your gift of Creganwald did not sit well with her." Robert paused. It had just occurred to him that William needed Royce to rid himself of a threat. But he still didn't know what the threat was, and he didn't think William was going to tell him. "You would use him?" he asked quietly.

"It is a dishonorable thing. But I have no choice. If Royce will not fight... then Creganwald will be Beltane's. But if Beltane is defeated, Tearlach will be stalemated."

"Royce will not forgive you for this."

"I do not seek his forgiveness and I can live with his anger. But he will have Creganwald and he will have the maid. Mayhap... eventually he will understand that sometimes even a king's hands are tied."

"You would lose his regard to give him his heart's desire. You are right; when his anger is gone, he will see the right of it."

"Move with caution, and make sure this does not get to your spy. Make sure also that you whisper the right words to Royce, for I want the scene played out with no suspicion of my involvement."

"I will tread carefully." Robert laughed. "I want no part of his anger either."

"I wish him well, Robert, you of all people know that. I do not like it to appear before all my knights that I have betrayed a trust. I will stand before them and claim him undisputed owner for his lifetime and for the lifetimes of his heirs. But he must raise his sword this one last time."

Robert gazed at the king he loved and trusted, and wished heartily that he had the power to reveal more of what he knew. But he could not. He could only do all in his power to realize William's hope for Royce.

"When this is finished, have I your leave to tell him the truth?"

"Only when you are certain that word will not reach Tearlach's ears. If it does ... Royce will have to guard both Creganwald and Lynette, for there is no end to the revenge Tearlach will seek... and no protection I can give him."

"I will be careful. I will also see to it that the Lady Oriel finds a home somewhere else, preferably many miles from Creganwald."

"Excellent plan. You had best go now, before the sun rises. I know how many ears are attached to the doors here. Be cautious, and see that you are not discovered leaving. Tell Royce ... Nay, if I am ever forgiven, I will tell him all that needs to be said myself. If I am not"—he shrugged—"there are no words that will do. I long for peace, Robert, and that will only come when the holdings of my empire are in the hands of those I know I can trust. I know Royce's loyalty, and can depend upon his honor in holding Creganwald."

"You can depend upon it. You can also depend upon my gratitude that you have found a way around this problem."

"You and I have campaigned too long together for your gratitude to be necessary. When this is finished, we will raise a horn or two in honor of our success. Fare thee well, Robert, and continue in Royce's service as devotedly as you have in mine. Spend your aging years in the companionship and peace you have earned."

"I almost look forward to tomorrow, for Beltane has long deserved what I know Royce will mete out. Once Lady Lynette asked me if she and I were conspirators, when I told her of Royce and his past. I told her, aye, we were. One day I will have to tell her how far that conspiracy has gone, for she will be distressed when Royce challenges Beltane and she will place the blame squarely upon your shoulders."

"And her Saxon blood will cry out at my betrayal."

"I would not be surprised," Robert laughed. "Mayhap I will have to restrain her from picking up a sword herself and seeking her own satisfaction."

"I need no other battles, my friend. Seek the first occasion to tell her the truth. Just make certain none know of it before time."

"I will be cautious."

Robert slipped carefully from the room, and was a bit surprised to find the same messenger waiting for him. "Your horse is ready near the back gate," he informed Robert, then melted into the darkness like a shadow.

Robert rode slowly, considering what words he would use with Royce to prepare him for a battle he had no idea was approaching.

When he arrived home, he was pleased to see that the place was still shrouded in darkness. He was careful when he let himself in, for the men slept in the hall, along the wall, and he did not want to be making up reasons why he was roaming about.

He made his way to his chamber and to his bed. But sleep was not easy. He considered going straight to Royce and telling him all the king had said, but he knew Royce might take Cerise and Lynette back to Creganwald and defy anyone to take it from him.

He would have justice on his side, but that course of action could only lead to tragedy, for William would be forced to see that his word was obeyed.

William was right. He must warn Royce to fight for what he wanted.

His plan laid as carefully as he could manage, Robert sought sleep. The rest of the matter lay in the hands of God. God and the strong arm of Royce. But he had made another decision as well. When Royce was in total possession of Creganwald, and Lynette was wedded to him, he would confide his secret to Royce. It had weighed too heavily on his mind for too long. He even wondered if it would not be better to tell William ... yet he knew what might follow. William did not yet have a firm grasp on England, and this word, slipping into the right ear, could be disastrous.

He hated the secret he had to hold, but he loved the man he held it for. Now, soon, if fate was fair, he could share it and be free of it once and for all. This thought followed him into sleep.

Robert felt as if he had barely closed his eyes when he heard the awakening of the household. He rose hoping to find Royce alone somewhere for a moment. He had to prepare him to issue the challenge.

Dressing hastily, he made his way downstairs to find Royce already there, breaking his fast with Giles and Alaine, who insisted they were going to accompany him to hear the king's word on the marriage. They were prepared to have a lively wedding as soon as the word was spoken.

Royce was laughing at their enthusiasm, and Robert could see his confidence.

"Good morning, Robert. You are showing your years, lying abed like this."

"Lying abed! It is hardly dawn. Your enthusiasm is showing. Where is Lynette, still abed?"

"Nay, Lynette was awake some time ago. She is taking care of a problem."

"Problem?"

"She is explaining to Cerise why she cannot go to court today."

"How clever of you to put that burden on her."

"Aye," Royce chuckled, " 'tis better her than me. I have discovered the little lass has a way of twining me about her finger and having her way."

"The little lass or the other?" Alaine teased.

"I have a strange feeling it is going to be both," Royce said.

"That would not surprise me either," Robert said. "Have you told Lynette she cannot come to court this morning?"

Royce looked at Robert in surprise. "Not come? Why should she not come? Do you foresee a problem?"

"Who can say when problems will arise, with men like Beltane and Tearlach present? They are creators of problems. If I were you, I would wear my mail and make sure my sword was handy."

Royce looked at Robert with a frown. His countenance was bland, but was there something elusive in his eyes? Did Robert have misgivings about the gathering today?

"Do you truly believe Beltane will cause a problem today in the presence of the king?"

"I simply said that if I were to go into their presence, I would be prepared... unless you have begun to think the reward not worth the battle."

"Not worth the battle?" Royce repeated. Now he was certain there was something in Robert's words that meant more than he understood. "I will fight anyone who tries to separate us. Lynette must come with me this morning. But do not worry, Robert, I will make sure neither Beltane nor Tearlach causes trouble. I do not trust either of them any more than you do."

"I would take great pleasure in spitting Beltane on the point of my sword," Alaine said agreeably.

"As would I," Giles agreed. "He is not a man to trust. At Hastings, he was always a step behind and well protected. And yet he is no mean swordsman; he can wield a powerful and very deadly blade. He simply must be pushed into it. He is no laggard when it comes time for the spoils, either."

"And he is no laggard when it comes time for the ladies," Alaine said. "His handsome face brings them to his bed easily enough."

"Aye," Robert said quietly. "But have you noticed that few of them stay very long? I have a feeling he is none too gentle with a maid. I would not want one of mine in his hands."

The two knights agreed, but Royce's attention was fully on Robert now. He knew him too well not to know there was a message there for him, but what? He had no intention of letting Lynette fall into Beltane's hands.

Before he asked the question, Royce's attention was drawn to the stairs, where Lynette was just descending. There was a quiet moment while the four watched her approach. She brought a smile to each face.

"You have convinced Cerise?"

"Aye, my brave lord," Lynette laughed up at him. "But it has cost you a promise."

"A promise?"

"Aye, I told Cerise that you would take her to choose that pony you promised at Creganwald, and that you would purchase the one of her choice... tomorrow."

"There is little I can do if you have spoken in my name. I shall just have to agree."

"Such a fierce fight you offer," Lynette chided. "When she asks for more, will you give it so readily?"

"Most likely," Royce laughed. "And I do not doubt that Robert, or any of the others, will follow on my heels and give her what she cannot wheedle from me."

"You are going to raise a tyrant."

"Nay," Royce said softly, "I have been wise enough to choose a mother who will correct our spoiling."

It seemed to the knights present that there was more warmth in the hall when Lynette was present. These men had fought long and hard behind Royce, and now they looked forward to the promised days of peace and happiness at Creganwald.

Robert said nothing more. He knew Royce had felt his subtle hints, and though he said nothing, Royce was not one to take chances. He would go prepared to fight for what he wanted, and that was all that Robert could do without coming out and telling him the king's plans.

It was decided that five of Royce's best men would accompany him to court, including Robert. Oriel was sorely disappointed when it was not suggested that she could go as well, and she made her dissatisfaction known, to the embarrassment of her brother, who was one of the chosen knights. In the end, Oriel got her way. She would ride with them.

Robert watched her performance with a face devoid of all emotion, and that alone caught Lynette's attention. At her first opportunity, she questioned Robert.

"You are not pleased that Oriel will accompany us."

"Nay. The lady always has a motive of her own, and she is not to be trusted." He turned to look intently at Lynette. "Do you understand my words? I would take it as a special favor to me if you would keep away from her.

"What has caused this new fear?"

"Lynette ... I would trust you to keep a confidence."

"Aye, Robert?"

"Even from Royce."

"Nay. I would keep no secrets from him."

"This is for his benefit, and not to cause harm. Oriel has been carrying word of all that passes among us to Tearlach. Do not tell her anything Royce might say to you."

"She is spying on Royce's household!"

"Aye."

"Why? What has Tearlach to gain?"

Lynette's mind was quicker than Robert had thought, and he knew he would have to be more careful or she would have the whole secret from him.

"He hopes to hear something that would harm Royce, or cause him to turn from you."

It did not ring true to Lynette, and yet she would never believe Robert would lie to her. "Do not worry, Robert, I will confide nothing to the lady."

There were more and more people gathering in the hall, and private conversation was soon impossible. Lynette escaped to her chamber when the hour grew near for them to leave. She chose carefully the gunna she would wear. It was a deep rust in color. and the garment she wore beneath was of soft gold. She bound her hair in a gold snood, leaving small fine wisps to frame her face. As she was finishing her preparations. Cerise peered shyly around the door. Seeing her reflection in the mirror. Lynette turned and motioned her in.

"Oh, Lynette. how very pretty you are." Cerise said in an awed voice as she came to Lynette.

"She is beautiful." Royce's voice came from the doorway. He paused there to study the picture they made... the two most perfect beauties he had ever seen. One an innocent, with a sweet look of childish trust, and the other ... his pulse picked up a beat and he could feel his blood warm. He knew she would always be able to reach this well of love inside him and replenish it with a look or a word

He walked toward them, and Lynette rose to move into his embrace. Cerise beamed up at them as if they were the fulfillment of all her dreams.

"We have to leave now." Royce spoke to Cerise, standing with one arm around Lynette. "I hope we will be back early, but there is no way for us to know. Try to stay out of mischief."

"I will. Papa, will we go home tomorrow?"

"I doubt it. The wedding can't take place that quickly, and the king will want it to be held here. We'll try to make it as soon as we possibly can. believe me. Cerise."

They bade her good-bye and went back downstairs to join the group that would accompany them. Occasionally Royce would glance at Robert with the nagging feeling that something was very wrong, and Robert tried not to look uncomfortable under the scrutiny. He wondered if Royce would forgive him for what was about to happen.

There was an excitement about the court, as if everyone felt that something portentous was about to happen. As William entered the hall, all the women sank into deep curtsies. Royce knew his first sense of alarm when his eyes met the king's and there was no warmth, no smile of greeting, and no look of contented approval.

He turned to look at Robert, who was scowling so darkly that Royce felt his heart stop. Something was amiss. His gaze went around the sea of faces until it found Tearlach and Beltane. There was a look of satisfaction in their eyes, a look that could only mean trouble for Royce.

The men who stood beside Royce were completely unaware of his thoughts, but he had frozen where he stood. Suddenly he knew that his feelings had been right, that somehow Tearlach had managed to change William's mind.

He looked down into Lynette's eyes, and knew something else. If Lynette was not his, Beltane would never live to know it. His thoughts spun until they settled on what he would have to do. Lynette felt him go rigid, and when she looked up at him, she could see that his jaw was set and there was a sudden fierce look in his eyes. Her heart sank, and she knew a fear that shook her.

Both of them looked toward the king, who was preparing to speak to them.

Lynette watched him as he spoke. Again she felt his magnetism. This was not a man who would make a promise and then break it. But she realized that kings did whatever they considered necessary. With sinking heart, she also knew there was no higher authority to which they could appeal. William was speaking when she returned her attention to his words.

"... and there has arisen the necessity to reverse my decision. A prior claim has come before me, and I find the cause... right and true."

He continued to speak, but Royce's gaze had gone from him to Beltane. The two men looked at each other, the heat of their gazes coalescing into a tangible force. Beltane wore a smile of triumph as the words filled the hall.

"... and so the lands of Fallwell will be awarded Royce for the span of his lifetime and that of his heirs. The lands of Creganwald and the Lady Lynette will be the property of Beltane for him and for his heirs."

A silence fell over the hall. Beltane felt the greatest of pleasure; Lynette felt as if her heart would stop; William felt his betrayal most potently; and Royce seemed to have frozen, his face unreadable. Only when the silence became unbearable did he release Lynette's arm and walk toward Beltane.