Stories Thread

[Privateerkev]

Antioch: 1090

Makedonios tried to sit on his horse. He had been feeling bad for years. But finally, the moment he had been preparing for a decade was at hand. Antioch had finally run out of food for it's garrison.

The front gates creaked open. And all of a sudden, hundreds of men poured out. Thinking the garrison was attacking, Makedonios ordered his men into battle lines. But the garrison men simply ran along the sides of the wall and attempted to make it into the countryside. Afraid the garrison units would reform and bother them later, the Grandmaster ordered his Sergeants to take off and round them up. Being the only cavalry in his army, they all galloped off, leaving the Grandmaster sitting there leading the foot units of the army.

A young man was up in an arrow tower. Barely 16, Azim had watched everything that had happened. He saw a man in shiny armor barking orders and coughing. Taught by his grandfather to go for the shiniest armor first, Azim crouched behind the arrow slit, took aim, and fired.

THWOCK!

Makedonios had a fine plate of armor on order that was made by the Patriarch himself. It was supposed to arrive before today but Imperial bureaucracy was what it was. Some official had not signed one of the triplicate forms on time and the procurement officer had kept the armor behind his desk until he could get confirmation from the initial bureaucrat. The armor from the Patriarch probably would have caused the arrow to just bounce off. But Makedonios only had his old armor on and it wasn't thick enough.

The arrow hit him in the shoulder and caused him to fall off his horse. Upon hitting the ground, Makedonios immediately passed out. His body was weakened from a decade of severe illness and the shock of the hit was simply too much. His army saw their commander hit by an arrow from the city walls. Enraged, and with no nobles to lead them, they simply ran into the city.

Searching for who ever had shot their general, the soldiers started entering homes. While women and children were spared, any man of military age was rounded up and taken to the city square. Some of the garrison were still hiding and they put up a fight when their homes were entered. Outnumbered and separated, the militiamen lost their individual contests against groups of Byzantine soldiers. Any home found to be inhabited by a militia member had their property taken.

The captured men in the courtyard knew they were going to meet a bad end. As a group, they rushed the soldiers guarding them and we're cut down. Soldiers went to those men's homes and confiscated their property as well. Over 2000 military age men were killed in Antioch that day. Through all of this, Makedonios laid on a bed unconscious. His Sergeants finally came back from rounding up the fleeing soldiers a couple of hours later. Appalled at what they saw, they put an end to it immediately. Captains of the Byzantine regiments were placed under arrest.

When Makedonios finally awoke, he learned what had happened. From his bed, he performed the ceremony to turn the city over to Armatos and knighted him as a full Knight of the Order of St. John. And he made arrangements to make sure the confiscated property was sent to the Emperor. While he could not undo the terrible things that had happened that day, he hoped the 6591 florins would help the war effort in other parts of the Empire.

[Rowan]

Vartholomaios Ksiros had been assigned to the rearguard formation responsible for foraging and patrolling the outskirts of Antioch. As such he hadn't spent much time with the main sieging army outside of the city proper and had been spared the vagaries of extended siege. He made a silent prayer thanking the Lord for his continuing good health. Hopefully other members of the Order would start getting better now that the siege was finally over.

Now Vartholomaios was leading a unit consisting of his bodyguard and armed peasants to reinforce the army that was now garrisoning Antioch. The peasants were despondent for having been kept on extended campaign for so long. Soon some would begin slipping back to the coast, trying to get transport back to their homesteads on Cyprus. Entering the city and all its delights would probably help their morale quite a bit, and it would be much more difficult to desert from the city. The walls and towers would as well keep the garrisoning army in as they would keep an invading army out.

Vartholomaios chuckled at the thought just as the marching column entered the city through the main gate.

"Antioch, eh, seems a bit on the quiet side", he thought as what few local inhabitants there were visible stopped on their business and stood silently watching the columns progress to the central plaza.
"City this size should have quite a bit more merchants than...". Just then a horrible wail began to sound from above the rooftops. The soldiers of the bodyguard immediately drew their swords, preparing to fight off the ambush. "Relax!" yelled Vartholomaios "It's just the muezzin calling the muslims for prayer!". Slowly the drawn swords were sheathed. The road was now completely empty of inhabitants, those not scurrying to prayer having vacated the place very quickly at the sight of naked steel.

"It seems we need priests here even more than merchants", Vartholomaios thought glumly as the column started again.

[Ituralde]

East of Nicaea 1089

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

This story was supposed to be made together with Byblos and his character Tarasios Sarantinos. OOC reasons kept us from realizing in it's whole attempt. I still like the story and I think Pavlos would have no problem finding some other young man to bounce around.

The sun was setting over the horizon and already the shadows were lengthening. Thrown by the tent lines of the camp, all arrayed in straight lines, forming a square pattern in the rolling hills of Paphlagonia. A small trench had been dug around the encampment with wooden spikes added to help repell any attackers. The two entrances were manned by several men leaning lazily on their pikes while other guards could be seen patrolling the outskirts. Inside the camp fires were lit at specified intervals and those not on guard duty had gathered around to enjoy their evening meal. The march had been strenuous and setting up camp had taken its time. The men around the campfire were clearly relieved to snatch a few restive moments from the hard campaign life. Just as one of them was about to lift his filled spoon, savouring the aroma of mutton stewed to perfection, a loud voice interrupted!

"Attention, soldier! Whose tent is this?"

Reluctantly lowering the spoon and raising his hand the man turned to his commander: "Mine, sir."

"Well I be bloody darned. Have you ever set up a tent in your life, lad? Or have you even looked at the tents of your comrades? The storm lines are clearly missing! A little gust of wind might blow it away!"

The commander stepped towards the tent and gave it a kick, toppling the main support so that it folded in on itself.

"Just like that, you see! You bloody build that up again, and this time do it right! And tuck in your shirt, this is not some brothel in Nicaea, this is the Caesar's Royal Army!"

As the man rose a surpressed snickering could be heard from his comrades.

"And once he's finished I want to see all of you on guard duty on the South Gate! You take First and Second Watch!"

As the commander walked on, the gleeful looks of his comrades quickly turned to hateful stares as they watched the man reerecting his tent.



A pleased smile on his face Pavlos walked on, his watchful gaze scanning the camp around him.


"See lad, that's what happens if you take bloody Militia on a bloody campaign! They wouldn't find their own arses with a map, if left alone!"

The young man accompanying him nodded in agreement following a few steps behind the burly man with the scar running down the side of his face.

"Discipline is important, lad! Nothing like discipline to see you through. If you can't rely on them building a camp when you tell them to, how can you rely on them in the heat of battle? Might decide it's time to run and be done with it. Bloody Militia, they'll probably run whatever you tell them. But you have to try!"

The young man nodded again a little bit more hesitantly, slowly working up the courage he raises his hand and asks tentatively.

"So is all of this really necessary, we're two days ride from Nicaea..."

Under the stare of Pavlos the young man trails off and both come to a halt.

"We're on campaign lad! Doesn't matter where we are, as far as I'm concerned all of this" his gesture encompasses the surroundings of the camp "is enemy territory! You don't want some Seljuk twerp to sneak up on you and slit your throat while you're asleep, now would you? I promised your mother to bring you safely to Sinop, and by God I will! Once we're there though." Pavlos laughs heartily holding his stomach with both his hands. "We'll just see who runs first, eh? The Militia or you and your so-called retainers!"

Slapping the man on the shoulder he starts walking again.

"Don't you worry lad, I'll put some backbone into you, that'll make your mommy proud! By the time you're back you'll be slitting Turkish throats while dandling a lass on each knee, you mark my words!"

[_Tristan_]

Croatian Gold
Northern Epirus border, July 1089.

A hot wind gusted through the mountain passes of Northern Epirus, blowing drifts of dust, twisting its way around the pine trunks that dotted the slopes.
The riders were huddled in their capes against the wind, the dust clinging to the sweat running on their exposed skin, making their way across the path that crossed the mountain range.

Methodios was riding in the lead, letting the reins rest on his horse’s collar, the horse knowing its way, having trodden it so many times over the last year.

It was almost a year now since Methodios had left Dyrrakhion to oversee the Venetian border. The defeat of the Italian-employed mercenaries had him thinking that retaliation would soon follow from the Venetians but until now, there had been no gathering of forces at Ragusa, no landings by the powerful Venetian navy though their ships still plied the trade routes of the Adriatic.

“I thought they would use Dyrrakhion as an excuse for waging war on us… That their pride would talk… Seems they have learnt the virtues of patience…” thought Methodios “Now we’ve patrolled these passes over and over and even went down to the Ragusa countryside and have yet to see a threatening move on their part. It may be time to get back to Dyrrakhion. Though I had pledged to give it to the Emperor after capture, and true to my word I forswore all claims on it, perhaps the Basileos will deem me capable enough to appoint me as governor to the town…”

Methodios’ reverie was broken suddenly by a metallic ringing coming from the valley that opened a bit further down the mountain road. There was no mistaking it : it was the clangour of battle…

Thinking at first that his mind was playing tricks on him, Methodios turned in his saddle, seeing that all of his men were standing erect in their saddles, oblivious to the cold seeping into their cloaks, clear indication that he had not been imagining the noise.

Methodios was now sure there was a battle somewhere down there, though the echoes on the rocky faces of the mountains prevented him from guessing the number of fighters involved.

“Forward !!” he called to his men, unsheathing his sword at the same time. Setting a brisk pace, guided by the noise of ringing metal, Methodios drove his horse down the slanting road.

Finally, a bend in the road revealed the origin of the noise.

A merchant train was being attacked by a small party of what seemed professional soldiers although they did not wear any identifiable colours, though their arms and armours had a distinct Italian feel.

Several of the merchant guards lay dead on the ground, while only a few of the brigands seemed to have suffered light wounds. Soon, the last defenders would be overwhelmed.

The numbers were slightly against Methodios and his men but their sudden appearance should provide enough of an advantage to prevail.

His decision taken, Methodios spurred his charger, signalling with his sword to his men, who as one followed him down the slope.

The horses’ hooves striked sparks on the rocky ground of the slope, an avalanche of noise that soon reached the brigands. Heads began to turn, shock leading to terror…

The leader of the brigands soon realized that there was no way to win that battle and a quick order called in a language unknown to Methodios (“Definitely not Italian” thought Methodios), sent his men running up the mountainside where only goats could follow, rocks and trees barring the way to the horses.

The merchant guards maintained a vigilant posture, tightening their position around the two wagons that made up the merchant train. Their horses had wandered away, putting them at a disadvantage to the approaching riders. Methodios called his men to halt and ordered them to sheath their weapons, after making sure that the robbers had fled far enough not to cause any more mischief.

Keeping their weapons drawn, the guards nevertheless didn’t relax. One of them, seemingly the leader stepped forward.

“Shall we thank you ? Or are you just frightening the competition ?” he asked, defiantly, in a strongly accented Greek.

Before Methodios or any of his men could answer, a fiftyish man of wide girth stepped down from the front of the lead wagon.

“Hush now, Goran… These men have just saved our lives… No need to be aggressive…Better see to our wounded…” the man said, talking to the leader of the guards, in a slightly less accented Greek.

The man was dressed in a black tunic of dark brocaded silk over which he wore an old-fashioned leather breastplate. He wore high boots of fine leather and a foppish black hat with a white feather. His face seemed jovial enough, ruddy and lined like an old apple, a wide graying beard covering the lower part of his face.

Walking towards Methodios and his men, seeing that his own men had sheathed their weapons and were going to the wounded to tend to their wounds, a smile lit up the man’s face.

“Let me introduce myself…I am Milos Kovacs, miner and trader, from the free city of Zagreb, a hundred leagues to the north. Who shall I thank ?”he asked “I take it by the looks of your armours and weapons that you are kataphraktoi, hence in the service of the Roman Empire, no ?”

“You’re right” Methodios answered, instantly liking the man. “My name is Methodios Tagaris. These are my companions. May I ask what brought you to these barren country , Master Kovacs ? Not much in it but rocks…”

“Exactly, my Lord… Exactly… Rocks… Beautiful rocks…” Kovacs answered, a mischievous gleam in his eye. “There are all kinds of rocks, my Lord… Some more valuable than others… Let me show you…” Walking to the back of one of the wagons, Kovacs climbed in and was soon back out with a small pouch. Handing it to Methodios, he said “Here… Take a look…”

Open the pouch and pouring a bit of its content on his hand, Methodios was surprised to see a few golden stones, the stones casting a warm glow from the sun beating on them.

“Is that what I think it is ?” Methodios asked.

“Yes, my Lord… Gold… Pure gold, plundered from Earth’s bowels…”

“And I suppose there are more of these in those two chariots of yours ? What’s to stop me from killing you and taking all that for me ?” Methodios asked, matter-of-factly.

“My Lord, I pride myself in being a good engineer but also a good judge of character… I can feel we are in no danger from you or your men… Anyway, take this pouch as a gift for saving our lives and our shipment. You’ve earned it…” said Kovacs closing Methodios’ hands over the pouch.

“But we didn’t even fight any of your aggressors…” Methodios argued. “I cannot accept…”

“Then perhaps will you accept to answer a few questions for me in exchange ? Or provide some help ?” Kovacs asked.

“What do you want to know ?” Methodios asked, getting down from his horse. Seeing that his companions had done the same, helping the guards tend to their wounded comrades.

“May I ask what a Byzantine knight is doing so far away from the Empire ? Is this not Venetian territory ?”

“True… But Durazzo has fallen to Empire arms and we are here to prevent any move by the Venetians to reclaim it.”

“Ah… I see… My Lord… Forgive me if I seem too forward but I would ask a service of you… As I stated earlier, I hail from the fair and free city of Zagreb. Though it is now free in name only…Until a few years ago, we owed no allegiance to nobody but ourselves. We traded with all the neighbouring kingdoms… It was a heaven for men such as me… But Heaven often lures the Devil… This time he came in the guise of one Captain Gulya and his men. They pretended that the Venetians had plans to claim Zagreb as their territory and convinced the city Elders that they should hire him and his men for our city’s protection. The Elders complied but the threat has not come true in the meantime nor does it seem to be on the verge of becoming true. Nevertheless, Gulya and his men are still getting tribute from our city, indulging in feasts and orgies. His men are not much better than rogues, preying on our merchant trains. See… The men you put to flight are Gulya’s men.”

“So what service would you ask of me ?” Methodios asked, with a smile. “Surely not to escort your wagons to safety ?”

“No… I had in mind a mission more fitting of a Byzantine knight… See… These mountains around us you are full to the brim with gold… Only thing is the roads are not safe out of these mountains… So until we get rid of Gulya and his men, there is no exploiting it… What you’ve just seen in that pouch is nothing compared to what we could scour from the soil with the proper engineering… But setting something like that up requires money… More money than I or even all of Zagreb traders put together could muster… Now, if you would help us get rid of Gulya’s yoke, I could put in a word with the Elders and have them declare themselves for the Empire. Then we could use funds from your Basileos to set up a series of mines in these mountains. They would pay up for any investment in no time, my Lord… What say you ?” asked Kovacs, an expectant look on his face.

Methodios thought a while. Kovacs was a good man, of this he was sure. He would prove true to his word. But marching on that town without knowing the strength of his opponent could be suicide. Plus, it would mean abandoning Dyrrakhion, though apparently the town was safe from Venetian assault. And the House of the Tepaki had been en route and could take over the governing of the newly conquered city. He’ll be out of reach to the Empire for some time until he reached Zagreb.

“Are you sure your countrymen are ready to come under Empire rule ? There will be no turning back…” Methodios asked.

“Surely, it will not be easy… Though the majority will gladly be rid of Gulya, some have risen to power since his arrival… They have supporters, but nothing that wealth pouring in can’t overturn”, Kovacs replied, frankly.

Having reached his decision, Methodios put his arm on Kovacs’s shoulder. “Walk with me… We have some plans to make…”

******

[Kagemusha]

Bessarabia winter 1093.

Howling winter storms were sweeping the hillsides of Bessarabia as small group of less then 30 horses and men were struggling North, inland along West side the Black Sea. Everything was frozen. Their armor,tunics, the tunics of their horses, even food supplies were frozen stiff, while the harsh wind from steppes threw snow on their frost bitten faces and covered their already frozen garments. The small party seemed more like a pile of snow and ice moving slowly but steadily to the North.

Last summer they had crossed the Danube, passed Bucharest and continued North. The weather had been good and the hills and steppes of the West coast of Black Sea had offered easy path towards river Dniestr, while there was plenty of game to hunt along the way, which nourished the small group of men as they rode North.

Now everything was different. As the weather got colder, the game vanished out from sight. There was still reserves of food and the men were able to catch a rabbit here and then, but the abundance of food for the men and horses was long gone.

Ioannis had left North with his men, with a single thought in his mind. To make name for himself. He had joined the Basileos in the siege of Sofia. Afterwards he had stayed in Sofia, garrisoning it with small party of local peasants recruited as militia to defend the castle. Ioannis had served loyally the Basileos and had not tried to bother him with suggestions to promote his personal glory. He had kept his silence when Anna had passed Sofia, meeting his father, but not even leaving a note to Ioannis before she left to Hungary. Ioannis had swallowed his pride and thought that there was nothing that he could do to the situation. Anna knew that he had been in the army of Basileos and Ioannis himself had made very clear to her, what his feelings towards here were.

During his time in Sofia, Ioannis had met an Astrologist, called Hynyadi. The men was locally famous of horoscopes he had made for the town people and one day Ioannis had called for him and asked the older man to compile an astrological chart for him. The old man, who was long in his stature, but very thin and had narrow face with long nose, had returned after few days to the Sofia castles keep and started explaining.

" I see much contradiction in your future,young master. There are many roads that can lead you to multiple destinations. I see a woman that your heart desires. A strong, powerful and beautiful woman, who is surrounded by suitors of many kind. I also see that stars have given lot of ambition to your own nature and that you come from a family, with long and proud history. As a son of this family, you have to thrive or perish, there simply isnt any options for ordinary and simple life for you. It is in your own hands to make your destiny. The only thing the stars will tell is that if you are looking for a great destiny, you should go North."

The horoscope had been lot longer, but the essentials were there. Ioannis had been stunned how well the old man had seen his life and after the initial meeting, many more meetings followed, where the two became friends and Ioannis started believe more and more what the old man said to him.

After writing his annual report to Basileos, Ioannis had made his decision. The answer from Basileos had been cordial. Ioannis could remain in Sofia, or go to Anatolia and join his house members, Basileos had also wrote that if needed, he could join the Imperial army in the North. It seemed like Basileos didnt really have any use to Ioannis, but as a refined man, didnt want to insult the young strator, by ordering him back to Constantinopol.

The following evening Ioannis once again met with Hunyadi. He asked the older man, what was up there in North that he should pursuit, in order to find a path to glory. The old man watched Ioannis straight to the eyes, with his piercing gaze, then moved his eyes to an flame of a candle standing on a table between the two man and started speaking with a low voice.

"North from Bucharest, there is a land between rivers Dniestr and Prut, called Bessarabia. In Ancient times this was home of Scythians,r Getai and later Dacians. When the Roman empire defeated the Dacians, the area became known as Roman province of Scythia Minor. This is the area from where Goths,Huns, Bulgarians and Magyars entered the Europe and many others before them. It is a fertile land of plains and hills between the two large rivers. Whom ever controls this area, controls the door to Europe. There you should go young Kantakouzinos and claim this ancient Roman province back to Roman Empire. From there your path to glory will begin."

After week from the cryptic augury of the old man, Ioannis had sent lan letter to Basileos that he was riding North. With only his personal retainers and the old man who had explained that his faith was bound to Ioannis faith, the small party started traveling North.

Ioannis had thought many times that he had been crazy to listen to the old man, as the conditions around their little party had gone from bad to worse. Luckily they were still all alive, all were more or less of the cold, but still the small group pushed forward with rugged determination.

After three more days in the blizzard and three nights,sleeping in a holes dug on a ground and covered in snow, the weather became better. It was still freezing cold, but the blizzard was over and sun showed its light to them after weeks of darkness. The party moved trough a small forest and on the other side they were hit by a vision, they had never anticipated.

From the side of the forest, a valley opened up and in the valley stood a wooden castle. Iasi as Ioannis had learnt from Hunyadi. But there was also something else. small fires, men and horses were surrounding the castle. After bit of observation, one of Ioannis men had spotted a flag and with further inspection the men agreed it was infact the flag of Poland. The number of mounted besiegers didnt look large, but then also it was impossible to tell how many men were inside the castle. Ioannis ordered his men inside the forest and spoke to them briefly.

"Men. We did not come this far to turn back now. We will stay here in the forest and remain hidden from the both parties. I want to see how this siege will turn out."

[TheFlax]

((Written in collaboration with Elite Ferret, Zim, Deguerra and PrivateerKev))

Athens, November 1094

Without any announcements or notice, a young woman entered the halls of House Asteri in a confident stride. She wore a veil, as was custom for high ranking women, yet her somber clothing of alternating shades of greys was more akin to a servant's garb than that of a noblewoman.

She addressed all present in the room with an imperious tone. "Take me to Kosmas Mavrozomis."

Hypatios was startled by her sudden entrance. Having only just returned from Rhodes he had not washed and so was embarrassed by her presence.

"My lady," he bowed deeply, so deep in fact that he stumbled and struggled to regain his balance, flushing in the process.

"Kosmas is in his private chambers at this moment, would you like me to fetch him here or will you go to him?"

A lot of the words failed to flow from his mouth freely which, as well as making him hard to understand, further added to his embarrassment.

If the princess was amused at the man's bumbling demeanor, she hid it well.

"Compose yourself and then take me to Comes Mavrozomis." She replied in a stern voice, reminiscent of a tutor berating his student for some mistake.

Hypatios expression instantly hardened.

"My lady, I understand that you are of high birth but you must also understand that I am no slave. You happen to be speaking to one of the leading nobles of this House and a personal friend to Kosmas. You may one day find me to be in a more powerful position than your father, so I discourage you from insulting me, and I know that was an insult, your subtlety cannot fool me."

The sudden change in the man was staggering, a moment ago he could barely utter a whisper yet now he spoke firmly and fluently. He smiled,

"Kosmas' chambers are this way, on the other side of the estate. I can fetch a carriage if your pampered feet cannot handle such peasant's work."

The last comment was muttered, though still audible, and thick with sarcasm and scorn. Though he did now fear whether he would seem too aggressive and pompous, despite the advice a 'wise man' had given him on how to win a woman's heart.

Anna's stern expression changed to one of exasperation.

"I need not insult those who make fools of themselves. I advise you to keep your snide comments to yourself and change your attitude, you may fall upon someone far less forgiving than I someday."
As Anna finished her admonition, foot steps could be heard approaching. Kosmas, dressed casually and bearing an easy smile, entered the room and bowed to her.

"Princess Anna, after so many unpleasant surprises these past few days it is wonderful to encounter the other kind. I trust my man Hypatios was acquainting you with the amenities of our House's headquarters?" Kosmas' facial features bore no sign that he had noticed the tension in the room but the way his eyes narrow slightly in thought as he glanced from Hypatios to the Princess suggested otherwise.

Hints of a genuine smile could be seen through Anna's veil.

"Comes Mavrozomis. It is good to see you again, I have travelled to Athens solely to meet you. I hope I shall not be disappointed. May we speak in private?"
Kosmas' smile broadened as it was met by Anna's.

"Of course. There is a room nearby where we may speak alone, right this way."

Kosmas led Anna to a small room some distance away from the Main Hall. There were a few well worn books and scrolls on a large table in the center. Close inspection revealed these to be religious texts, including a copy of the New Testament, the Septuagint, and a number of Monk's Lives. The only striking decoration in the room was a large tapestry on one wall taken up only by a giant Chi Rho symbol in white on a black background.

Kosmas quickly glanced over the room, letting his eyes rest on the tapestry a moment, before turning back to Anna.

"No one will intrude on us here. I take it from your request for privacy that there is something of importance to discuss?"

Anna nodded. "I need a ship and it is said that for now you have many under your command. I need to get to Antioch."

Kosmas' eyes narrowed for the second time that night, as if considering options. "It is true that through the kindness of the Basileus I have had access to many ships, but I am guessing that a crude transport ship would not be adequate to your needs. I own a personal ship with amenities more suiting one of your stature. If it pleases you, I can transport you and your retinue to Antioch."

Anna undid part of her veil to show a warm smile. "That is most kind of you." She turned her back to him and moved to a window. "Although, I should mention I am traveling alone. I am ready to leave whenever you can get your ship ready."

Kosmas paused a moment before bowing and speaking. "It just so happens that Comes Makedonios recently invited me to Antioch. My ship is already just about outfitted for the journey, with no more than a single day needed to finish stocking up on provisions. You will take my cabin of course, although I fear even it is not as luxurious as becomes a daughter of the Basileus. I will sleep with the crew. Is there anything you would like my servants to pick up in town tomorrow to make the trip more pleasant for you?"

She turned back to Kosmas, her head lowered, not daring looking upon him. Her voice was hesitant, as if she was struggling to say the words.

"I was hoping to get to get to Antioch inconspicuously. I... I would require some clothing more fitting... your servant."

The last words seemed especially hard for her.

Kosmas' eyes widened briefly in shock. I wonder what manner of trouble I'm letting myself get into? Recovering quickly, Kosmas smiled again, and bowed to Anna once more. "It shall be as you request. There is a servant on the grounds about your size, so procuring such clothing for you on the pretense of buying it for her should be done easily enough without arousing suspicion. The sleeping arrangement on the ship will be somewhat awkward if you are to pose as my servant, but we will figure something out. In the meantime, do you have a place to stay the night while the ship is outfitted? If not we can try to arrange something here that will not attract notice."

Not daring to face Kosmas, out of shame, she replied meekly. "I'm afraid I'll have to impose, having nowhere else to stay."

--------------------------------

A ship docked in Athens, November 1094

A sharp knock is heard on the cabin door, and without waiting for an answer, Ioannis Kalameteros entered the cabin. He had changed in the years since their last meeting. His body looked thinner, weaker; his face more gaunt. His arms still seemed slightly out of proportion, but they no longer conveyed the same strength they once did, as Ioannis had to steady himself on the doorframe. He seemed tired and much older, but the cold fire in his eyes was still the same.

Ioannis only heard a sharp gasp of surprise and caught a hint of bare flesh as Anna quickly wrapped the bed's blanket around herself in an effort to maintain her modesty. Servant's clothes laid haphazard throughout the room. For once she found herself at a loss for words, she couldn't even manage angry rebuke and her gaping mouth stayed silent. Her wide eyes fixed Ioannis in horror and shock, akin to a wild animal backed into a corner.

Taken aback for only an instant, Ioannis studied Anna with a teasing smile for slightly longer than he should. The dream of half the Strators in the Senate come true. Much prettier without all that decoration, and without the usual royal haughtiness. He turned around, averting his eyes. "Forgive my intrusion Princess, but I heard you were leaving in a hurry. It appears you have convinced Kosmas to take you to Antioch. I can spare myself the question of why, but what exactly do you think you will accomplish there?"

At his inquiries, Anna regained some of her senses. Her expression turned cold and her eyes narrowed. "Out!" she commanded in a firm and sharp voice.

Ioannis turned around. He gave the pile of servants clothes on the ground a brief, meaningful look and turned his eyes ruthlessly back on her. "I do not think you are in a position to give orders, Princess," he emphasized the last word, "I can only hope that you are going to Antioch for a very good reason. If you were found out... Well, obviously I need not tell you." He gestured to the clothes at her feet.

Covered only by a blanket, Anna managed nonetheless to keep her dignity. "Ioannis. Leave the room for an instant and when you return you will find me as compliant as someone in those clothes should be."

One last time he studied her face, trying to control a rising temper, the corners of his mouth twitching slightly with the effort. It really is a rather pretty face. "Do not try obsequious servitude with me, Anna. I want none of it, and I wouldn't believe it from you if you were scrubbing my boots." A pretty face, red with embarrassment. Deciding he had been cruel long enough, he turned around again and exited the cabin, closing the door behind him.

A few minutes later, the cabin's door was silently pushed slightly ajar from the inside, inviting Ioannis back inside.When he did, he found the room had sparsely changed, save for Anna standing at a respectful distance and fully dressed as a servant.

If anything, Ioannis' mocking smile was greater at the servant's attire than the blanket. "So, Anna", he recommenced in a low voice, "just what do you intend to do in Antioch?"

She kept her eyes lowered, as if in the presence of an august being. It was hard to say if she was truly submissive or simply hiding her features from the man who confronted her. "I simply wish to speak to Makedonios, nothing more."

Ioannis' face twisted, his rage pouring out of him as he stepped in closer to her. "I told you not to try your tricks with me! Either you are actually so stupid as to blindly run to that... that man without thinking, in which case you are no more smart than a flittery little girl, or you are lying to me. I am not sure which is worse, but at least if you are lying that shows you still have your wits about you." He noticeably calmed, but continued to glare at her.

Anna remained a tower of calm, unaffected by Ioannis' outburst."If you wish to read me as you would a book, you must first learn the language in which I am written."

He gave a short laugh, his features almost seeming to strain at the effort of not frowning. "Very poetic. I'm afraid I'm not much good with literature. I do know quite a bit about people." His face grew calm again, his expression turned blank. "Whatever you plan on Antioch, is there a way I can help?"

She finally met his gaze with her own, hints of a smile visible on her features. "Do you know who wants me dead?"

Considering briefly, he answered "I do not." He shrugged, "I have my suspicions, but nothing of substance."

Anna nodded thoughtfully. "For my part, I intend to strike back. Let us simply say Makedonios will be instrumental in what I plan." She smiled. "See? That wasn't so hard."

He gave her a genuine smile: "Speak for yourself. If I can be of further assitance..." He left the words hanging in the room.

The silence persisted for some time as she scrutinized Ioannis, her eyes searching his soul. "You truly do not know anything about the attacks on my person?" She placed an emphasis on the plurality of attacks, paying a close attention to his reaction. "Or perhaps, you know something about who would hire my staff to spy on me?"

He studied her for a long time, silently. Finally he sighed. "Pay people to spy on you? Anyone would." He smiled. "I did. I know little of Verina's attack on you, but if she was paid to kill you, it was not by me."

Ioannis' words left Anna dazed and stripped her of her ability of speech for a second time.

He gave a slight smile at her startlement. "While we're being honest, why don't you tell me what your intentions are for Makedonios?"

Her pale face flushed at his question as she struggled to maintain a steady voice. "I had hoped he would lend me use of an estate owned by the Order, but now... Now you have changed my priorities Kalameteros." She spat the name like a curse. "I will try my best to make your life as miserable as I can."

Again he studied her silently. Eventually he gave a quick, mirthless laugh. "Not much one for honesty, then. As for your pathetic threats. You are in my city, surrounded by men loyal to my House, going on a voyage you wish to keep a secret to meet a man you should probably not be seen meeting, dressed as a servant. I could kill you right now. And you threaten me? You have courage, I'll give you that."

Anna gave her best smirk. "You sad little fool, do you truly think I move throughout the Empire without my father's knowledge? Although, if you wish to seal your fate and that of your House with my death, I can hardly stop you."

"Yes. It just so happens I think your father has no idea where you are. Not that it matters. As I said, if I had wanted you dead, I could have paid for it years ago. I have no quarrel with you. I only seek to understand yours with me."

Incredulity crept on her feature, while her voice remained cold and barren of emotions. "Every action you take had some unforeseen consequence. My foolish confidante tried to kill me because I happened upon her little scheme." She shook her head in disbelief. "While others are content to attempt to influence me, you go too far. You go where you should not, you tread on my life without regard to anything other than your own selfish interests and then you ask what you have done to attract my ire? I tire of your mockery, you know very well your crimes against my person."

Ioannis started shaking his head before she was even finished. "You are so much more naive than I thought. You are a Princess of the Roman Empire. People will tread on your life, and they will try to kill you, and you will get caught up in the schemings not only of a family and a court, but of an entire Empire. I have committed no crime but seeking information, and had it not been me on bribing your servant, it would have been another. One, I might add who would not be so honest about their intentions as I. So, if I may give you some advice, get thee to a nunnery, or get used to it. You may not like me for it, Princess, but I never asked you to like me. What I asked for was a business partner. Sadly, it seems my faith in your wits and intelligence was misplaced. As for your threats, do your worst. I have lost everything I held dear in this world a long time ago. Now if you will excuse me, I have wasted my time with you quite long enough."

Anna stood expressionless as she watched him leave. The exchange had left her unsure about many things, save one. Her resentment for Ioannis Kalameteros had just reached unprecedented heights.

-----------------------------------

Antioch, December 1094

A servant entered Makedonios' room. A woman dressed in plain whites and grays, her bowed head and simple linen cap covering her features. She glided without a sound to his side and whispered in his ear.

"Makedonios..."

With the reflexes of a soldier, he reached under his pillow for his dagger and pulled it out while sitting up. When he saw her face, he recognized it instantly and dropped the knife on the floor.

"Anna!"

He quickly composed himself and remembered that formalities were required.

"Forgive me for being so informal your Highness. But you startled me. What are you doing here?"

As he sat up, Anna saw that he had changed a little. He was past 30 now. A decade of pneumonia had wracked his body and left him gaunt. His right shoulder was heavily bandaged. At least now he was out of the tent and in a proper room. But his eyes were still the same. She could tell the passion in them, for both his holy mission and for her, had not gone out despite the trials he had endured.

The room was simple and spartan despite being in one of the better buildings in Antioch. A table by the bed was piled with the books Anna had sent him. Many bookmarks could be seen sticking out from them. And a stack of letters threatened to fall over onto the floor.

She took of the cap which held her hair and at last, Makedonios could take in her features fully. This time, her face was worn without any cosmetics and its flaws were revealed. Her cheeks were pale, as her face, lacking the proper red tint required for beauty and her hair was a tangled mess held by a simple wooden comb. She easily looked the part of a servant.

"I needed to see you again Makedonios, with all that has happened I needed to speak to someone I could trust." She smiled. "Considering what I am wearing and the fact I am not even supposed to be here, you can drop the formalities."

Makedonios sat back for a moment in shock as he took in her full features for the first time. She looks even better without the makeup, he thought. After staring for an awkward second, he spoke.

"I'm sorry but you do not stop being who you are all because your dressed different your Highness. While it is good to see you again, I apologize that you have to see me in such a poor condition. But I am honored by your kind words. Please, let me know what has been going on and if it is in my power to help, I will."

Anna kneeled at the side of his and looked up to him. "I fear I may first have to impart troubling news. Ioannis Kalameteros intercepted me as I came here. I know not if he will reveal my coming here to anyone, but he harangued me and threatened to kill me. In the past I have overlooked his impertinence, yet he has gone too far this time."

At first he was troubled by the fact that someone of royalty had placed themselves lower than him, so as to make him look down on them. But he quickly forgot about that when he heard the word 'kill'. His eyes narrowed and his features hardened.

"I have long grown tired of that man. If it wasn't for my friendship with Kosmas, I would have already gone to the Emperor with the evidence I have of his meddling in your affairs. But this is too far. I'll have to think of how to make him hurt without causing too much harm to his House. And if I can't think of a way to do that, then I'll just think of a way to make him hurt."

Anna had never seen Makedonios like this. He had the steely cold resolve of a soldier who just learned that the woman he was falling for had been seriously threatened. Finally, he asked, "Tell me, what exactly happened."

At those words, she proceeded to recount her latest encounter with Ioannis Kalameteros in great detail, striving to omit nothing. At first she had thought of embellishing the tale, but she soon realized it was damning enough as it was.

Makedonios shook his head. "That man truly has no morals, standards, or values. I guess being trapped on that island has warped his mind even more. You might consider going to your father with this news. With enough pressure, Kosmas will be forced to eject Ioannis or suffer his whole House being alienated in the Senate."

With his usually stone face etched with emotion he said, "I'm glad you're ok. With the two attempts on your life, and this new threat, I worry about you. I don't know what I'd do if anything ever happened to you."

Anna shook her head lightly. "I cannot go to my father, unless I reveal I traveled here." Her pleasant features grew harder. "Ioannis would not dare harm me, do not worry, he is not that much of a fool. There is no need to harm his House, I only wish to see him suffer as I did whenever he insinuated himself in my life."

He nodded. "Well it's something to keep in mind. I'm sorry if I seem overbearing but I have grown... protective of you. My feelings for you have grown a great deal. Regardless of what your father decides with the issue of who you will marry, I suspect I will always feel this way."

She replied in a tender voice. "I have worried about you too." Then rose and sat beside him on the bed. "I also have a favor to ask you. You mentioned the Order having land in Konstantinopolis and I would require a building, preferably out of the way. Can you accommodate me?"

He smiled and enjoyed her closeness. "Of course. Since we require all members to turn over their belongings upon joining the Order, we have acquired a large amount of land all over the Empire. I can provide you with a building that fits your needs."

"I can also guarantee your privacy and security there. While the land owned by the Order is a matter of public record, they won't know which one your in. Plus, the number of properties in the city under our control is numerous. People would have difficulty watching them all. And no one but me will know which one your occupying. As for security, I can detail men I trust to guard the building who won't talk or ask questions."

"Now, you said Ioannis intercepted you on the way here so discussing him was not the reason you originally came. And you could have asked about the building in a letter. What brought you to take such risks in traveling here? Is there something else you want or need to discuss?"

Anna rose and turned to stand before him. "Actually, I simply wanted to see you and since the building is crucial for what I plan, I did not wish to risk a letter. Now that I am here, is there anything you wish to say before I leave?"

Oh only about a million things, but they can wait for when circumstances are happier, he thought. While he wished to find excuses to postpone her leaving, he knew she had to get back.

"It was good to see you your Highness. It means a lot to me that you came all this way just to talk to me in person. Just please be careful and do not hesitate to write to me if you need anything or want to talk. I'm sorry I could not show you around the city. Perhaps next time when I feel better."

Anna placed the crude cap on her head once more. "May God watch over you Makedonios so that I may have the pleasure of your company, sooner rather than later. Farewell." Promptly, she turned and left the room in hurried steps.

[AussieGiant]

(Coop with OverKnight)

Bucharest, 1093

Apionnas looked down with some trepidation at the city below, holes in the wall where being repaired and an Orthodox church was being constructed near it’s centre. The final part of his journey into the city seemed to flash by, before he realised his surroundings he was being ushered into a rather run down building which was being used by the Basileus as some sort of Royal lodging.

As the steady cadence of his riding boots echoed through the hall his apprehension levels rose, was it relief or frustration? Either feeling was better than the years of the waiting, negotiation and discussion that had taken place prior to the meeting he had now finally secured. Certainly his handling of state affairs in Constantinople had gone well enough. The Basileus seemed to have finally used independent reports on his success as a reason to grant him this vital face to face meeting.

Calming himself using the methods taught to him by his now dead Amir, he finally nodded to the court official who had been patiently waiting before presenting him to the Basileus. With one hand on his scimitar and the other making the sign of good luck he proceeded forward into his self created “breach”.

Apionnas found himself ushered into a study off of the courtyard.

Basileus Aleksios was seated at a table reviewing reports. Harald Sigurdson, the Varangian Captain, stood impassively in the corner, a giant axe slung over his back and a hand resting on the pommel of dagger that hung from his belt.

The Emperor looked up, put down the reports and spoke, "Come in, Senator Apionnas. I apologize for the informality, but the occupation of Bucharest has taken up much of my time. Please have a seat".

Taking the offered seat Apionnas began to study the man he had come to meet.

There seemed to be no outward sign of his intent and it was impossible to determine his frame of mind from the set of his features. The man was clearly used to being observed and had certainly mastered the art of concealing his thoughts from others.

Aleksios put down the reports and looked at the young man over tented fingers.

"Your competent administration of the capital in my absence has been noticed. I appreciate it, and so you have the audience you requested. What do you wish of me?"

Taking a moment to consider his opening statement Apionnas steeled himself and began.

“As we have discussed my lord, I wish to give my service and that of my family's, to you and your family, for as long as we draw breath.

This is one of the most potent and effective terms of service I have been exposed to in my time living in the East. Only the Sultan and his family may take on these types of bonds as it creates a certain, independence, from other influence.”

Taking a moment to consider the younger man's wording the Basileus finally responded.

"You offer of service is gratifying, however, let me be blunt, you will not advance in Empire or any House unless you convert to Christianity. The Empire employs mercenaries and soldiers of many faiths, but the nobility is Christian. If you continue to openly profess the religion of your enslavers, you will remain an oddity and a subject of suspicion.

"If I did become your patron, I would no doubt have objections from the Patriarch and some of the more dogmatic members of the Senate. Whatever you would bring to the table would have to outweigh that. You have shown yourself a capable governor, but that is not enough."

Taking a moment to assess his options Apionnas decided to fall back on his instincts and training.

Move forward, press the point, see what follows. His Amir’s words once again where the guiding force.

With that decision made, his eyes narrowed as he began the most important statement of his short life.

"My Lord, whether I convert to Christianity or not, this simply does not affect my ability to serve you. If that is the primary concern then I will simply keep my religion hidden to all those who wish to pry. As far as anyone else is concerned they will be totally unable to determine my faith in either direction.

"Please note, I do not necessarily wish command at this time, although that is what I have been trained to do all my life. Having seen the troop reports from across the Empire I am fully aware of the limited resources at your disposal.

"But, what I am asking for is your patronage, in return there is this: While others have their own allegiances and therefore agenda's…I will not. I am yours to command completely outside the structure of any of the noble houses.

"I can imagine a number of instances where a 'Special Governor' might be needed for any troubled provinces. Perhaps a 'Special Commander' for any tough battles or command positions that require a 'trustworthy' noble to ensure results are to your liking.

"More over, voting rights would be at your disposal rather than independent or as part of a wider House's agenda that may not be in line with your intentions. The options are unlimited once you put your mind to it my lord. The structures I see built into the governance of your Empire seem wholly decentralised. This is something that can be influenced by just such an arrangement.

"My lord, I do not suggest an open form of oath giving unless you wish it, more appropriate would be a private oath given to you and your family. In my culture this type of service is bound until one of the families cease to exist. I would serve you, your son and as many of your family as you deem necessary until I die. Once that occurs then my son would continue this service. Customarily this 'oath of service' is kept hidden from others and is entirely a private matter.

"Some Emperor's have informed their son's ahead of time, other have left the arrangement in their will, others have informed their next of kin while on their death bed. Of course the one item in my possession would be a copy of this private oath which ensures I can carry on this 'oath of service' to your son should you be unable to inform him prior to your demise.

"As you have been to me my lord, I will be as blunt and direct towards you if I may. Your nobles know nothing of the east, I do. In fact I can advise you on most matters ranging from as far west as France and as far east as you can imagine; Strategy, tactics, mentality and terrain, the list is endless. I have one advantage over any others when it comes to the east, I have been there. I have seen it and I can ensure prior knowledge of many aspects of what you and your Empire will encounter. I've spent 10 years being taught the skills of Islamic war and it is something beyond comprehension to people from the west.

"This is what I can offer my lord and for that I can ensure my faith is no issue and my uniqueness is 'your' asset."

For a moment it seemed as if he had gone too far. The intensity of his voice and the white knuckled grip on his scimitar was a testament to his feelings. The two men paused. Eye contact was only relinquished by the younger man when he glanced at the Varangian Captain who had stirred slightly at the tension growing in the room.

Aleksios sighed, "You no doubt have much to share, Apionnas. However, as much as you might wish it, The Empire does not keep politics and religion separate. Part of my role as Basileus is to be God's Vice-Regent on Earth. I can hardly have a Muslim as part of my retinue."

Apionnas responded instantly. His conviction clear in his voice, “Islam, Catholic, heathen, I see no real difference in men when it comes to religion my lord. We are all here and we are all going to die. If a man wants to choose one faith over another, then so be it.”

The Basileus grunted, half amused and half frustrated.

"Whatever your other talents Senator, you are quite stubborn."

Aleksios drummed his fingers on the table while he paused to think.

"Here is my offer: My patronage and this town, Bucharest, in exchange for your loyal service to the Komnenoi. However, you must convert. I will ask the Patriarch to have one of his senior clergymen baptise you on his behalf. You gain a patron, I gain a follower and we throw the Patriarch a bone. It will hopefully make him more tractable in the future."

The Basileus leaned forward and spoke again quietly, "That is my best offer, Apionnas Vringas, take it or leave it."

With that, Apionnas made his most significant decision of his life.

“I accept. I will convert to the Orthodox faith and renounce the religion of Islam and the teaching of the Koran.”

The Basileus smiled, "Good, I knew that you would see reason. An uncommon trait for some Senators. I will contact the Patriarch and arrange your induction into the Church. My wife and I will stand as your Godparents when you are baptised to formalise our arrangement."

The Basileus stood and offered his signet ring to Apionnas, "Please, stay and familiarise yourself with your new province, Comes."

Taking a knee Apionnas spoke his first and only oath.

“I, Apionnas Vringas, Strator of Byzantium, herby pledge my eternal service and that of my family to the House of Komnenos and all its members so long as breath is drawn from our bodies. We renounce the teachings of Islam and all holy text of the Koran and convert fully to the scriptures of the Orthodox Christian faith.”

The Basileus smiled as he looked down at Apionnas and spoke again, "Amen."

[OverKnight]

(Coop with Ignoramus)

Constantinople, 1095

Ioannis marched boldly towards his father's private chambers within the Imperial Palace. The guards respectfully retired as they saw the Caesar coming towards them.

"Greetings father! I trust your campaign did you well?" began Ioannis.

The Basileus smiled as he looked up from reading a letter. He motioned his son to a seat beside him.

"Hello Ioannis. A bit of luck in Sofia with our agent, he found some citizens who wished for the return of the Empire's rule and they opened the gates. Bucharest took a bit longer, but I was able to take that pirates' lair easily enough."

Aleksios leaned back in his chair and rubbed the bridge of his nose, "The trick will be in having the locals accept the true faith. I hope the new Church will help."

Putting aside the letter he asked his son, "And how was your campaign in Anatolia? More than one close call with the Turks it seems."

"It was," agreed Ioannis, "but thankfully we managed to outpace them. Comes Chrysovergos is hoping to return all of Pontus to your rule. The Turkish horsemen are of little use in besieging coastal cities. We can simply bring in supplies by sea."

Turning seriously to his father, Ioannis looked him squarely in the eye. "Father, we have done well so far in managing the Magnaura, but I am worried about how long we can manage to hold them in check. They're baying for war against almost anyone they can think of. One would think we were a pack of Huns under Attila."

Aleksios drummed his fingers on the table, thinking for a moment, and then spoke, "While there are a few Senators who would be more suited to a life of pillaging and rapine, I would not make the mistake of lumping the entire Senate into that category. Senator Ampelas seeks a more moderate path. Even Senator Tagaris wishes to show mercy to the cities we capture.

"For all the talk of war, the Edict authorizing may not even be seconded. Surely that is encouraging?"

Sighing, Ioannis continued, "Yes, but how long can it last? Sooner or later we will find ourselves fighting both the Catholics and the Moslems at the same time. Remember how that scoundrel Bohemond and his father threatened war against us? Thankfully, his father is dead and the son disinherited, but his ambition knows no bounds. I would not like to be facing him and the Turks at the same time.

"At the moment there is no discontent amongst the nobles, but as this past century has shown, establishing a dynasty is anything but easy."

Aleksios nodded, "Too true. War will come, one way or the other. I hope the Senate will have the wisdom to wait, so we can initiate hostilities at a time and place of our choosing when we are fully prepared.

"As for a dynasty, I'm just content that my reign has already been longer than that of any of the last eleven Emperors, including the last three added together. Think of that, my son, and weep for the Empire."

[AussieGiant]

Constantinople, 1095

Apionnas sat in the governors chambers.

Around him the staff where preparing for his imminent departure. Final word from the Basileus was all that was left. His time in the capital had certainly been beneficial as the city was a hub for much of the Empires administration. Having a clear picture of the economy and military situation was something he was going to have to work a lot harder at from the town of Bucharest.

He looked down once more at the Arabic letters in front of him and recalled the final words spoken to him before his compatriots left for Cairo.

Traitor, infidel, the list was longer and far more disparaging that he could have believed. Explaining why he had made his decision to comrades that had fought with him for a decade had fallen on deaf ears.

Moreover on their final meeting one of them had handed him a note. It was short, to the point and ominous.

The flowing words of the Arabic letters were a stark contrast to the meaning held within them.

"The Sultan has reformed the Mansuriyya slave regiment.

All survivors of the massacre at Adana shall report to Cairo in the month of June in the year 1100. If they do, not they will face eternal damnation, be branded cowards and traitors to the Sultan.

The penalty, death by dismemberment.

Grand Visier"

[Zim]

Mavrozomis estate, Athens, Late summer 1095

In a small room in the Mavrozomis estate, sparsely furnished with only a table and a pair of chairs, two men are seated one summer night, far later than one would expect to find members of the household awake. One of the men is seated in a corner of the room, his features shrouded by a heavy cloak. The only readily apparent identifying features he has are the fact that he is slightly above average height, and the bit of light colored hair peeking out from under the hood of his cloak. Well, those and a small symbol on the left breast of his cloak, obscured by the darkness and folds of fabric.

The other man is seated at the table. He is of average height, with dark hair. Despite being in his night clothes, the dark circles under his eyes suggest he has been awake to this hour rather than roused from bed for the meeting. Although likely once of medium build, the man looks thin now, as if from long illness or lack of food, his skin drawn tight over sunken cheekbones. Acquaintances of the man would recognize him as Kosmas Mavrozomis, comes of Athens, although they'd remark on his haggard appearance.

Kosmas sits hunched over the table, writing on a sheet of paper. His hand shakes as he writes, though whether from illness or fear it is hard to say. Every few sentences he looks up at the other man in the room, who nods and motions for him to continue. This goes on for a short while, until it appears he is finally finished. Kosmas signs the letter with his seal, stands and shows it to the other man, who nods and takes it from him. As the man then leaves, Kosmas lets out a sigh of relief. He sits down again at the table and falls asleep with his head resting in in arms, where his servants will find him that morning.

While it is impossible to say for sure what Kosmas wrote for his guess that night, shortly after their meeting a letter with his seal begins to circulate, it's contents causing some amount of stir among those close to House Asteri. Nonetheless, when asked Kosmas affirms it completely, and friends of his note that his health is returning, although gauntness seems to have been exchanged for a haunted look, and he can be found frequently looking over his shoulder, and jumping at sudden noises.

The contents of the letter are as follows:

I, Kosmas Mavrozomis, Comes of Athens,
find myself no longer able to lead House Asteri due to poor health and the stress inherent in the position. For the good of my House and my health, I hereby grant dominion over Athens to Ioannis Kalameteros, and allow him to voluntarily rescind his oath to me, so that he may become House leader. As I wish to remain of service to House Asteri, I swear an oath of fealty to Nevoulos ek Philadelphius.

[TinCow]

Zagreb, 1095 AD

Torchlight spilled across the rampart, marking the passage of a patrolling guard. Randolf touched his squatting companion on the knee, halting his silent count.

“The count was five hundred and forty three,” the man whispered.

Even in the deep shadows of the thick brush, Randolf’s grin was wide enough to gleam in the meager starlight. “The garrison is even smaller than we had been told.” He took a fistful of dirt and began to sprinkle it absentmindedly. “A five hundred count, I could never have imagined we would be so lucky. We could march an entire regiment up to the wall before an alarm was even sounded.”

The dark cloaked companion nodded in agreement. “So the plan will go forward then?”

Randolf turned and looked back towards the walls of Zagreb, once again dark as the guard disappeared around a bend, not to replaced by another for a very long time. The Byzantine Empire had expanded with unprecedented ferocity over the previous decade. At first, it had been a minor affair, considered by most of the Catholic nations as an internal situation. After all, settlements such as Arta, Durazzo, Scopia, and Sofia had long been part of the Byzantine Empire. Their reconquest was nothing more than the Emperor reasserting his authority over his own lands.

Yet, the conquests had not stopped there. Belgrade and Bucharest had soon fallen to their armies as well, both territories to which the Byzantines had questionable claims. True, that had been under the control of Constantinople in recent decades, but they had been ruled by the Bulgarians for nearly five hundred years before Basileus Basil II had reconquered them in 1018. Much of the populations remained Catholic and they had had no love for Greek culture or authority. As if that were not enough, the Byzantines had pressed their western ambitions even further, towards Iasa and Zagreb. Their claims to these lands were even more tenuous, and the population even less hospitable. While the former had so far eluded their grasp, Zagreb had fallen unexpectantly.

The tales of the fall of Zagreb had reached even Randolf’s modest manor in Lydham. The man responsible, Methodios Tagaris, was apparently renowned for his chivalry, yet that had not been enough to appease those he conquered. The population was discontent and rioting soon broke out. The Byzantines had prevented a full-scale revolt, but the people were greatly displeased with their new rulers and the situation was tenuous.

At the same time, this sudden expansion of Byzantine territory had alarmed many Catholic noblemen. Yet, none of the nations of Christ had been willing to confront their unbridled aggression. There had been movements for war within several nations, but they had been struck down by their various Kings in the interests of ‘peace.’ Peace indeed. This pacifism was simply allowing the Emperor to establish a foothold from which he would never be dislodged. Heretical Orthodoxy would spread across all of Europe from that bastion of power. Why, even Italy and the Holy Roman Empire were within range of armies operating out of Zagreb. Appeals had been made to the Pope to call forth a Crusade against Constantinople, but he had been unwilling to make an enemy of the Byzantines. He continued to proclaim that the Muhammadans were the foremost threat, despite their isolation in the East.

So, with no one else to call upon for aid, individual men, of common blood and noble alike, had gone eastwards to do what they could to confront this threat to Catholicism. As they met, they formed into small bands, and then into regiments, and finally into armies. Randolf of Lydham had been nominated by near unanimous consent to lead them. The disgruntled local populations had swelled their numbers as they had approached their targets. These same men provided an excellent source of intelligence, as they could come and go within the cities without suspicion.

As it turned out, the Byzantine expansion had been so sudden, that the garrisons in many settlements had yet to arrive. They were guarded by feeble forces which had barely the resources to keep order, let alone repel a full-scale attack. They were not even sufficient to scout the nearby lands for enemies, and as such the advancing armies had gone unnoticed. Such arrogance would be repaid in full.

Word had reached Randolf’s camp west of Zagreb that the Byzantine aggression in the East had spawned a similar response from the Muslim residents, particularly at Sinop. The Muhammadans and Pagans had rallied around some renegade priest who had take up the unlikely name of Spartacus, obviously in an attempt to incite a similar rebellion against the Eastern Romans as his predecessor had done against the Roman Republic. With rebellions appearing on both sides of the Empire, it was the perfect time to strike. The armies had been dispersed to launch attacks all across the western frontier, in an effort to liberate the unjustly claimed cities from the Byzantine foes. Randolf’s army at Zagreb was the strongest, but the armies sent to Belgrade and Bucharest were strong as well, more than capable of defeating the meager and neglected garrisons of those cities.

And so it was that Randolf of Lydham was to be found squatting outside the walls of Zagreb in the dark of night, counting the frequency of the garrison’s patrols. He looked at his companion and nodded. “It is time. The Byzantines will pay for their folly.”

-----------------

Note: This is an Event for the purposes of Rule 1.5. Due to the slightly shortened Megas term, it has technically only been 9 turns since the previous event. I like the idea of having them timed to correspond with the normal Senate Sessions, though, so I’m going to go ahead with this one right now. If anyone has a problem with it occurring 1 turn early, let me know and I will delay it one turn.

This Event will result in the creation of large Rebel armies which will be placed outside of Zagreb, Belgrade, Bucharest, Sinop, and possibly a couple more cities. The army outside Zagreb will be led by the rebel general Randolf of Lydham (a chivalrous fellow in southern italy) and the heretic priest Spartacus (in Arabia I think) will be placed near the army at Sinop. I will then attempt to take control of the rebel faction through console commands and move the armies myself to attack the Byzantines. Any avatar inside a threatened city will have one turn to flee before the city is besieged. Anyone who remains inside a besieged city will be at serious risk of death. If this turns out not to be possible (I’ve only ever tried with normal factions, not the rebels), I will instead let the rebel armies sit where they are and instead take control of the taxation of the cities. They will be increased until the population is rioting and I will remain in full control of the taxation until the rebel armies in each of these provinces are defeated. At that time the taxation will revert to the control of the province owners.

Please be aware that I have not yet made the proper changes to the save game, so it is not currently available. It will be done and made available this evening for you to look at. Remember, Events can be blocked by a simple majority vote, if that is desired.

[Ramses II CP]

It was the dream again. Vissarionas ek Lesvou was back on the fields southwest of Antioch. His guardsmen, slowed by long years of bloodless, boring siege and the endless grind of training in the field, had taken far too long to mount up on the Grandmaster's command and now the ill equipped militia from Antioch had managed to melt away into the countryside. Dozens of nearly unrecognizable men flooding out of the gates, perhaps just fleeing the conditions within, but perhaps seeking reinforcements from the hard used villages surrounding the city. A decade of foraging had not been kind to the peasants of the Levant, and while few of them would find the courage to bear arms against the Order of St. John, fewer still would aid or love the Orthodox soldiers.

With the host assembled at last the sergeants of the Order turned as one and rode along the walls of the city. None of them thought to check the gates or look back to see how the general advance was proceeding, their eyes and will were bent with utter absorption to the first truly exciting task they'd had since the siege began; hunting down the deserters from the garrison.

Hours later, having split to search, rejoined to plan, split again to question villagers, and finally come back together wholesale the mounted men had rounded up about sixty sickly looking prisoners. The slow march back to camp was not met by any messengers, and so the sight of the nearly empty camp with only the Grandmaster's tent abuzz with activity was a shock. Where were the common troops? Where were the captains?

In his tent Makedonios was clearly recovering from his wound, if slowly due to his illness, but he could not yet speak to relate what the situation was within the walls. Vissarionas' siege slowed mind was still trying to come to terms with the whole sequence when Rafi, now Vissa's page, ran up and pointed to a thin stream of smoke rising above the city,

'There must be fighting in the city! The men need you!'

Vissa nodded, 'Ride with me Rafi, but keep your wits and ride clear of any engagements; you're not equipped for street fighting!'

Weary to the bone from the long chase into the countryside, and uncertain of the situation within Antioch, Vissarionas ek Lesvou and the sergeants of the Order nonetheless found the strength to drive their mounts to a gallop and reached the open gates of Antioch in some haste. Within the walls the situation was difficult to grasp. All along the main thoroughfare shattered doors littered the streets, partially covering a few splashes of deep red blood. The sergeants split up, some making east and west along the inner wall to secure the city gates and seek fighting, while others attempted to find any Greek speaking citizen who might tell the tale. Vissarionas' stomach had begun to twist as his suspicions grew. Calling to his guards to ride hard he bore down at the forefront and, with Rafi at his side, made for the square.

As he neared the large open space of the square he began to pass groups of women, many of them weeping and wailing as though they'd seen the end times come. Some carrying small children with the shellshocked look of the half dead. No few of the kids had hands streaked with red, and most of the women's skirt hems were darkened by drying blood.

At the wide end of the street a crowd of older women and teenage boys remained to block the view. Hearing horses at a full gallop, and seeing the tabards of the Order on the riders, they scattered with terrified looks at the soldiers. A few of the boys carried rocks, but the sight of the heavily armoured horsemen ensured most of the rocks returned to the street. At last the path to the square cleared, and Vissa could see...

...and smell...

...and even taste...

...death. Hanging thick in the air, like a blanket of flies and filth over the very surface of the earth. The unholy, unimaginable stench of it, fit to warp even the most pure intent. A towering rage overtook Vissarionas as he cast about for what enemy could be so vile as to have committed this black act, what ungodly race of demons brought forth this slaughter! Nearly all the remaining peasants now scurried away under that gaze, and even the boldest slunk into the shadows of nearby buildings.

...but surrounding the piled dead were no enemies, no imagined Muslim blackguards, towering ten feet tall and leering like beasts. No, around the square, many still carrying weapons running red with the blood of innocents, were the soldiers of the Order of St. John. White and purple tabards stained nearly black with blood. Gore covered boots tramped from structure to structure on every side of the square.

Rage fled from Vissa as quickly as it had come, and reluctantly, painfully he forced his eyes back to the mounds of dead. Most were yet intact, not hacked apart in cruelty, simply killed. They wore no armor. They were ill fed, and badly clothed. Here and there a body might carry some mark of service in the city militia, but most were simple peasants.

Not one bore a weapon.

His mouth twisted as though a dung beetle were rolling it's precious cargo within his cheeks. A thin, dry croak was the first sound to emerge from Vissa, but then he took hold of himself and managed to bark out,

'Back. Ride back now Rafi. Carry my sword back to my tent now Rafi. Go on boy, ride! Do not return. I will come for you.'

Perhaps it was foolish to go among the recently conquered people of Antioch armed only with a dagger, but suddenly Vissarionas couldn't bear the sight of his blade, with it's mark of noble St. John on the hilts. Touching briefly on the thought of drawing it from it's scabbard, even in self defense, nearly unhinged his sanity, and he turned his mind away, towards other things. Rising in the distance across the square, perhaps two hundred yards from where he now sat, was the ornate facade of Antioch's main Orthodox church. Waving a command at his guardsmen to remain where they were Vissa strode as fast as he could manage to the stone steps of the minor cathedral, intent on seeking guidance in prayer.

Nearly running up the few steps Vissarionas was about to step into the building when he realized that his last footfall had squelched.

An audible groan escaped him. His gaze tracked gradually downward, from the beautiful, sacred doors of the church to the simple stone steps and at last to his own blood drenched boots. Further back, pulling his body all the way around, he saw a bloody print on each step he'd taken ascending towards the holy structure. Beyond that his eyes moved on away from the holy place, and following his path across the slaughterhouse of the square left him now with his back turned firmly on the church at his gaze locked on the piled corpses the victims of the siege of Antioch.

There the dream ended.

The parallel was obvious. If he entered that church to seek guidance regarding his part in the hideous acts of the day, would he not be commiting a sacrilege and implicating the Orthodox church in these sins? If the Order claimed to obey God's will then what part of the capture of Antioch was in accordance with it?

Vissa had puzzled over and fought with these issues for months, and finally for years. Rafi had felt him withdraw, and at a time when the young man needed guidance the most, but had stood with him. He had gone about his daily duties as if in a dream, spending as little time in Antioch as possible. With the Senate now in session Vissa had found himself unable to participate, no longer certain enough of who he was or what sort of House he had joined to espouse an opinion. Now, however, the vote had been called. Duty required that he fulfill his obligation, both as a senator and as a member of the Order. Duty could not be denied, not even for a man who believed himself to be bereft of honor and perhaps even undeserving of his place in life.

Duty called, but also... penance. He must inform his brothers and then seek the Patriarch.

As he turned to go Vissarionas recalled something one of the more erudite brothers had read to him from a book in the Order's library. (From the Wheel of Time books): Death is lighter than a feather, duty is heavier than a mountain.

[flyd]

Constantinople, 1095

"Are you asleep?"

"Huh? What?" Makrianos awoke from a light slumber. "No. Not at all."

"Good, because I would like to continue our conversation," said Eirene, "the one we were having before we digressed somewhat."

"Yes," Markianos responded, "how we digressed indeed! But I distinctly recall initially hiring you as a spy, not as some sort of a political advisor."

Eirene was quick with a comeback, "I think our initial agreement became void when you started courting me."

"Hey!" Markianos was not yet admitting defeat, "Let the record show that you smiled at me first. I was a victim. In any case, I really shouldn't be discussing sensitive political things."

Eirene was going to say something, but Markianos was quick to realize his grave mistake. He continued, "that's not to say that I don't trust you. That is not the case at all. It's just that certain things are not for discussion... to certain... at certain... times." He had backed himself into a corner and there was no escape. He had to concede, and continue making the point he was making five to forty minutes ago (depending on who you ask).

"It seems it was only the Order who bet on the wrong chariot. I can't say I've taken it personally, but the whole thing has not endeared them to me greatly. I thought they were above plotting and scheming, but it is strange that a bunch of holy men, who publicly claim to follow the Patriarch's proclamations that we should not war with the westerners, would support Tagaris who has never disclaimed that he wishes to instigate a war with them, but not declare it so as to circumvent the wills of the Senate, Basileus, and the Patriarch.

"It seems strange that the Order would support him, and I expect secret agreements to have taken place, which hardly seems befitting what the Order claims publicly to be. But they did sack Antioch too, so they're a strange bunch of holy men by every definition of 'holy men'! Still, I don't exactly wish to see them destroyed, but they won't come to expect support from me more than the minimum they need to survive, especially if these rumors of revolts are accurate, for we'll need much resources at home.

"As for Tagaris, well, he is now in the most isolated and most poorly garrisoned city we have, and is directly responsible for any revolts in the area. Further yet, he planned to take more cities and defend them weakly, so he looked to start even more revolts. And do they not say that whatever a man will sow, that he will also reap?"

Eirene giggled. "I like it when you're being treacherous."

"What? That's not treachery. It's in the Bible, sweetie. I won't give him any less than he deserves, but it isn't much."

"Yes," she said, "but it just so happens that all those you have complaints about are the ones who voted against you. That makes it treacherous."

"Not at all," he responded, "I have clearly outlined the reasons, and they extend far beyond poor voting choices. Besides, there are Senators who voted for me whom I dislike."

"Vringas?"

"No, not really. The conversion makes me less suspicious, and the Basileus will be able to keep an eye on him. I'm not too worried. I was referring to that Michail Arianitis."

"What has he done?"

"Why, he has taken over the White Team and found them some new racer. Supposed to be good, too."

Eirene laughed. "So? That's just chariot racing."

"What?" said Markianos with great surprise. "How can it be just chariot racing? How is it even possible to construct that sentence! Just chariot racing. I dare say it's the most ridiculous thing I have heard in a while."

"Oh, stop it," she said, "I just don't see how it's that important. Chariots go around the track, one of them does it the fastest. Everybody goes home, you know, to worry about more serious things."

"More serious things? Fine. I'm going to sleep."

[Privateerkev]

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

This story is a co-op between myself and OK.

1095: Constantinople, right before leaving for Antioch.

Makedonios walked down the hallway with a cane in one hand and holding a rag to his mouth with the other. The Senate session had gone relatively well and there was just one thing to do before returning to Antioch. The Grandmaster approached the double doors to the Emperor's chambers in the Palace. As the guards stood by, an aid checked a list. Seeing that Makedonios had an appointment, he nods to the guards who open the doors.

The Emperor sees a man different from when he last saw him. While still tall, and with a head of shoulder-length blonde hair, Makedonios stands stooped over a cane. He holds a rag over his mouth and periodically coughs into it. His face is sweating profusely and his skin is pale. What Alexios doesn't know is that this is one of Makedonios's better days. It is not often that he is even able to leave his bed anymore.

Dressed simply in plain white loose fitting clothes, Makedonios does the best he can to stand at attention.

The Basileus, seated at a desk, looked up from a letter he was reading. If he was taken aback by Makedonios's appearance, it did not show. Motioning him to a seat, Aleksios spoke.

"Senator, you look dreadful. Can I have a servant bring you some mulled wine? You should take advantage of the baths while in the city."

Makedonios clumsily plops down in the chair with as much grace as someone in his condition can manage.

"No thank you, though I might need some water before we are done. I seem to have caught something while sieging Antioch and I have never quite shaken it."

The man takes a moment to cough. It is partly necessary and partly to buy a moment while he works up the strength to give the most important pitch in his life.

"My Emperor, thank you for meeting with me. I know your busy and I will get right to the point. I sent you a letter asking for your daughter's hand in marriage years ago and I have still received no reply from you. If it wasn't for your daughter informing me, of your belief that choosing me for her husband would not benefit you enough politically, I would have thought the letter lost in the mail. But, we've all gotten older. Time is passing and I wanted to take the chance to make my case in person."

Another cough and Makdonios continues.

"Your Highness, quite simply I am prepared to offer you something no other man would dare offer you. And that is something concrete. I'm sure the other suitors have all promised vague assurances of their loyalty, or the loyalty of their vassals. I'm sure they even mean it for now. But what will happen when the Lord takes you and your son ascends the throne? Will those men be there for him? Somehow I doubt it. I however will offer you something tangible and immediate."

After pausing for a second for dramatic effect, Makedonios says simply, "I will offer to go away."

Aleksios's right eyebrow quirked upwards at this, the only sign of emotion he had shown through the Grandmaster's monologue.

Letting the statement hang there for a moment, Makedonios explained.

"I care about your daughter and I want her to be happy. I had naively hoped that would be enough for you. But not everyone travels in the same language I use and I am trying to catch up. So I will make a political argument as for why I am the best choice for your daughter. Quite simply, I am the greatest political opponent your son will ever face. While you have done a good job at holding the Empire together and making sure everyone shares in the wealth, your son's words in the Magnaura, and in letters to me, make me believe he is not as fair. If he pushes too hard, which I believe he will, he will marginalize himself. Now, as a founder of a dynasty, I believe you want what every founder wants, and that is to know the dynasty will continue with success."

The Basileus began to drum his fingers on the desk between them.

Knowing he was treading on dangerous ground by bringing up the Caesar, Makedonios paused for a moment, took the chance to cough into his napkin, and pushed on.

"What I am giving you is a chance to dramatically alter the political landscape right now in a way that will definitely benefit your son. If you pick me as the Princess's suitor, then on our wedding day, I will step down as Grandmaster of the Order of St. John. I will even give my province to my second in command. I will remain forever ineligible to hold any sort of decision making position in the Order. I will simply be a Strator. Probably for the rest of my life. Now I know this was not the sort of grand political alliance that you were hoping to secure. But no other Senator will give you this deal because no other Senator cares for your daughter like I do. They all see her as some prize to win or some tool to help them advance politically. I just want to see her happy. And I am willing to give up everything I have to help make that happen."

Aleksios cooly stared at Makedonios for a few seconds and then spoke, "Why don't you have some water, your mouth must be dry."

The Basileus stood and went to a sideboard in the room. Pouring some water into a silver cup he came over and placed it front of Makedonios. Leaning against the desk he folded his arms across his chest and looked down on him.

"So let me summarize your offer: In return for my daughter's hand you will promise not to be 'the greatest political opponent' my son and your new brother-in-law 'will ever face'. You also offer to give up leadership of your Order if married, something required by its rules anyway. You also state that you, and only you, are capable of making my daughter happy."

Aleksios paused, shook his head slightly and spoke again.

"I must say, you have a high opinion of yourself and the power you wield."

Makedonios took a moment to drink some water and evaluate the situation.

"It would indeed be presumptuous to think this about myself. But it is those in the Senate that let me know I am on the road to being powerful when they oppose my Order with faulty arguments. And your son lets me know he considers me a threat by demanding that I stop expanding. And not only that, but demands I give Antioch up. These things tell me that some in the Senate are quite frightened. I admit, power was not my goal when I formed the Order. I just wanted an organization of like-minded men to help the Empire guard the Holy Land."

Taking another drink, Makedonios took a gamble.

"As for my claim that I can make your daughter happy, those are her words Sir, not mine. I know she talked to you about me. But her words obviously did not sway you. So now it is up to me to try to change your mind. But it is what a man does when he is falling in love with a woman."

Aleksios crossed to a window and took in the view as he pondered his response.

"Anna spoke of you as her favorite suitor, though not in the exact same terms you have used. Yet there is much more to marriage among the nobility than love, particularly when it concerns the daughter of the Basileus. I am more than just her father, I am the paterfamilias of the Komnenoi and leader of the Roman Empire. As a Princess she does not have the luxury of marrying for love. She will marry to advance the interests of her family and to strengthen the Empire. If it ends up a love match, so much the better, but it is not the primary goal."

The Basileus turned to Makedonios.

"You simply do not have enough to offer. I will not have my daughter marry a Strator. Nor will I have my daughter marry to ward off an implied threat of future sedition. You have asked for the hand of my daughter and my answer is no."

Sitting there calmly, Makedonios plays his last card.

"Alright, if you feel that way, then I will join your son's House and ensure the family line stays within a House loyal to you. I will also serve him for the rest of my life. While he certainly has men who have promised to that now, I can offer more. His biggest political enemy would turn into his biggest supporter. He would become my family. If that does not sway you, I do not know what else will. But I highly doubt the Princess's other suitors have offered anything so concrete."

The Basileus rubbed the bridge of his nose, "You don't understand Makedonios. The point of a political marriage is to bind one House to another. The rules of the Order negate this, as would you joining Ioannis's House."

Aleksios returned to the desk and sat down.

"This is an academic discussion anyway."

The Basileus held up the letter he had been reading when Makedonios had entered, "I have already chosen a husband for Anna."

Makedonios raised an eyebrow. Knowing the Emperor probably wouldn't tell him who it was, he decided to guess. He had nothing left to lose.

"Something you said keeps going around in my head. You said you won't marry her to a Strator. And now you say you want to bind a House. But which one? Tagamata basically exists to serve you. Your son's House is already loyal to him since they know he'll be Emperor one day. I don't see you taking Tapeki seriously. It wouldn't be one of the independents. It's not the Order. So it's someone in Asteri."

A bad feeling started to develop in Makedonios the more he thought it out.

"It would have to be someone high up. Wouldn't be Kosmas since he is pretty much family. Plus he retired. Anastatios is a butcher. Zigavinos and Nevoulos aren't high enough up. Hypatios the Hypatos is crazy..."

All of a sudden it dawned on him who it probably was and Makedonios's gut wrenched into a ball. He found himself coughing into a rag. Finally he spoke with an icy calm.

"Your Highness, tell me, what has your daughter told you of Ioannis Kalameteros?"

As Makedonios said that, he watched the Emperor very carefully for his reaction.

Aleksios responded, "She has said nothing about him to me, Senator."

Pausing for a moment to wonder if he guessed right, he decided that it did make the most sense since Ioannis did just get promoted to lead Asteri. Makedonios tried to remember the details of the story the Princess told him.

"Are you aware that he threatened the Princess's life and at least indirectly caused one assassination attempt on her person? He bribed the Princess's confidant to spy on her. In Hungary, the Princess caught her spying and the confidant tried to kill her. Oh Ioannis claims it wasn't his fault. Much like when a man gets drunk, beats his wife, and then claims he didn't mean for it to happen. But he has admitted to threatening the Princess's life. You can verify all of this with her."

Aleksios scoffed, "Really? Such a a fantastic story. I wonder why no one bothered to inform me that someone had tried to kill my daughter. I will ask Anna. If what you say is true, it would be most alarming. However, I must also consider the source of such accusations."

The Basileus stood, "You've had your audience and your answer, Senator. I wish you luck in the Levant."

Realizing he had probably pushed his luck far enough, and then some, Makedonios quickly relented. He set the water down, coughed into his napkin a little, and used his cane to stand up from the chair. Standing as straight as he was able, he said his final words.

"I thank you for your time Your Highness. If Her Highness collaborates my story, feel free to contact me, and I can help. We might not agree on much, but we both care about your daughter and do not want to see her hurt."

With that, Makedonios leaves.

[Ramses II CP]

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

(OOC: This is a cooperative story between myself and PrivateerKev. Vissa just got back to the HQ after asking for his penance, as the story above suggests, the two being linked by a little bit in the Order's thread here in the LotR forum.)

Once the two men are alone in the Grandmaster's chambers Vissarionas launches into a fevered sort of speech, speaking quickly and without pause, with his eyes darting from place to place in the room.

'My Lord, I must go. I have been granted a chance, perhaps the only one of it's kind I will ever be granted, to take the fate of my soul in my hands and I can't turn away from it. I fear my dismay at the handling of the siege of Antioch makes it appear that I'm running out on the Order, and the arrival of these rebels may even make me look like a coward, but in truth...'

For the first time Vissarionas hesitates, and at last his eyes come up to meet Makedonios' gaze.

'...in truth I do not believe I can continue to serve the Order unless I fulfill this task, this quest, for the Patriarch.'

A moment's pause to swallow, and breathe deeply, and Vissarionas once again spits out words almost as fast as they can come to him.

'I'm haunted by Antioch. Compelled by the memory of my failure there. No matter whom we punish, it is to ourselves we must ultimately look for responsibility. I intend no judgement of any man but myself, but for me, I cannot go on as though there weren't the blood of those hundreds of innocent men on my hands. And so I begged the Patriarch to set me a suitable penance, and he has granted me that boon. I swore to him I would leave in haste, and so I must, absolutely must, go! But, of course, by no means do I intend to forsake my loyalty to the Order, and if I'd known of the rebellion...'

'Ahhhh! It's a puzzle for a better man than I, and so I will follow the will of the best man I know and entrust my fate to his will. Please m'lord, please, grant me a release to remain in the Order on extended foreign service. No mean matter, I know, especially since I cannot swear to what my conduct will be on this mission, nor do I feel at liberty to reveal the specifics, only to ask as one man of God to another, please let me go and still serve.'

At long last Vissarionas has run out of words, and stands there breathing a bit heavily. Knowing the potential import of his last few sentences his eyes have dropped to his feet, and he looks discouraged and uncertain, but also committed to his course, as he waits for the Grandmaster's reply.

Makedonios sits in his bed for a few seconds taking in what his Sergeant has said.

'As I have said before, you need to do that which you believe you need to do. I know much of nightmares. I have my own. Ever since Manzikert. Every night.

So, go and serve His Eminence. Do what you have to do. You can of course remain part of the Order during this trial of yours. Just know, that while you are gone, you will be the last on the list to receive a province and an army command. I need to reward those who stay.

While I have no problem with how your trying to atone for the sacking of Antioch, others are trying to atone in a way that helps the people here. Therefore, they must have precedence.

His Eminence is a good and fair man. I trust that he will not order you to do anything that would conflict with the Charter. And if he does, we will address Charter infractions on a case by case basis and deal with it then.

I ask that you give His Eminence my regards personally and thank him for me. The armor from his vaults is a thing of beauty and I am very humbled by his gift. Unfortunately I've never met the man. We've only exchanged letters.

So, go with God. And with my blessings.'

Vissarionas waits wide eyed while his Grandmaster speaks, and when Makedonios concludes he bows deeply before speaking,

This is more than fair, and I am personally indebted to you for your understanding of this matter. I do hope, once I return, to found some agency to aid the people of Antioch, but for now I fear anything I might do would be tainted by the stain on my honor.

If I am granted an audience with the Patriarch I will be certain to mention your regard for the armor!

Goodbye and good fortune my lord! I will pray for you, and for the Order, and most of all for the preservation of Antioch and the Levant! God grant that my efforts will aid all three in the long run.

So saying Vissarionas once again salutes the Grandmaster in a formal fashion, spins on his heels (once dismissed) and departs.

[Ituralde]

Sinop, 1095

The sun was just cresting the horizon but the streets of Sinop were already packed with citizens. It seems like everyone had turned out to see the Byzantine Army leave the city. The foul cast to Pavlos mouth was even stronger today as he watches the gathered crowds with disgust. He sat his horse rigidly, his great-nephew Christos sitting right beside him holding the banner of the Komnenodoukai House, which flutters in the wind.

He had a good view of the city and watched with pride as row upon row of Roman soldiers march by him. Their armour gleaming and their various banners streaming behind them, they made a grand display, even if they weren't many, and only foot soldiers for that matter. And the people of Sinop seemed to enjoy the display and cheered the soldiers as heavily as when they had entered the town not too long ago. Bloody Hippocrites! Pavlos knew that at least half of the inhabitants cheering now would cheer the same once Spartacus and his minions would arrive. They would cheer for the Muslims as well! They were just bloody fools!

Turning to his left he waves one of his retainers over.
"Kostakis! Take this letter to Nicaea as fast as you can!"

Without further delay the man spurs on his horse and races West. For the first time a slight smile appears on Pavlos face.
"What's the point of that letter?"

Puzzlement was evident in Christos voice. He had been with his great-uncle has he had written that letter the night before. Just after the reports had confirmed that the fanatics gathered outside of Sinop outnumbered them three to one. Christos had seen the the need to leave Sinop, but why send a letter asking permission for something that you were doing anyway?

"Because, when you're in the field of battle, it is you who makes the decisions. You can't wait until your superiors agree with you. This is the only way we can get there before the Seljuks. By the time an answer arrives we will already be halfway there. If we wait we'll be surrounded by Spartacus and his followers!"

Smiling grimly Pavlos follows his troops as they pass him, marching towards the rising sun, marching East, towards Trebizond!

[AussieGiant]

Administrative Chambers, Constantinople 1095

The Imperial messenger had nearly collapsed upon delivering the scroll bearing the orders.

Now as Apionnas raised an eyebrow at the Besileus's words held in the letter now in his hands. The Emperor's intentions left little room for error, in fact it seemed serving the Byzantine Emperor was not going to be as dull as he imagined.

Looking up he addressed his regimental captain, a man he had inherited from his uncle and someone who clearly hated serving someone he regarded as a Saracen and an impostor.

"Captain, go and find me the officers in charge of the two militia units.

Bring them here immediately, we have orders and we need to leave now."

As the captain left the room in haste he began formulated a plan for how a tragic accident might occur to his new commander. Now that the unit was finally being ordered into action the possibilities were endless.

Finally, a vicious grin spread across his face as he came to the final option he was about to organise with his fellow officers.

[_Tristan_]

The Paladin and the Sorcerer
Zagreb, 1093

“Methodios !!” The cry roused Methodios out of the dreamless slumber he had fallen into… The strain of the least few months had finally taken its toll…

“Methodios !!” Standing up from his makeshift bed, in a bale of hay in the shade of some trees, in a field just outside the gates of the city, Methodios recognized Bjarki’s voice.

“Over here…” he answered, his voice slurring a little. Taking a swill of water from his gourd, he stepped out of the shade. “What do you want ?”

“You had better come and see that for yourself,” said Bjarki, the veteran warrior, a sombre look on his face.

“Lead on”, said Methodios, clasping a hand on his comrade’s shoulder, wondering about the secrecy.

Methodios followed Bjarki to the other side of the town square. Few people could be seen in the streets. Though the arrival of the kataphraktoi had freed the town of the tyranny of Gulya and his men, the townsfolk still didn’t know what to make of this new and ominous presence.
Kovacs had proven true to his word and obtained from the city councillors that they proclaim their allegiance to the Empire. Trouble had erupted but was quickly put out once the leaders had been arrested. It was discovered that all the men had taken profit from Gulya’s governance of the city.

Over the last few days, Methodios as sat as judge to many a trial of those men: his sentence was always the same, either they relinquished their hold on the riches acquired during Gulya’ reign and swear their loyalty to the Empire, or they were driven out of town, their holdings seized.

Bjarki was coming back from checking on one such expulsion of a rich merchant and his family.

Led by Bjarki, Methodios made his way through the town, thinking about the improvements that would have to be made in the future. Already he had laid plans to the construction of roads towards the neighbouring Imperial provinces. Soon he would see to the building of barracks for the town militia he wanted to set up.

Finally, they arrived at what was an apparently wealthy townhouse, its two-stories overhanging the cobbled street.

The door was guarded by Adrastos and Antonios, slouching near the door, playing a game of dice. Bjarki entered the House followed by Methodios. Cloths and small personal objects were strewn over the ground, a telltale sign that the eviction had been accomplished, and diligently it seemed.

“Come this way”, Bjarki beckoned, opening a door leading to what seemed to be a basement. Torchlight could be seen flickering at the bottom of the steps.

Half way down the stairs, a strong smell of wine assailed Methodios’ nostrils.

“I’m in no mood for a drink, Bjarki” Methodios said, sullenly.

“That’s not it... Though were it not for the thirst that drove us here...” Bjarki said, a wry grin on his face.

The stairs opened in a large cellar occupied by several large barrels. On one side of the wall, the floor rose up in a slope to double-doors that were used by the former wine-seller to roll his goods in.

Methodios could see that most of the barrels had been tapped, wine spilled upon the floor.

Seeing Methodios’ glare, Bjarki gave him a slight smile, hunching his shoulders “Yes... We have sampled the goods... Fine wine, he was selling that man... But come over here...”

Bjarki led the way to the back of the cellar. Instantly, Methodios noticed that something was out of place. One of the barrels stood open, its facing turned against the wall on hinges. More torchlight came from the once secret room. Crawling through the fake barrel, Methodios emerged in a small room, lit by a single lantern dangling from the ceiling on a short chain, his blood turning cold in his veins. A rack and an unlit brazier were set in a corner of the room, with strange tools displayed on a nearby wall. Dark flaking stains could be seen on the rack and floor.

“A chamber of torture” Methodios said, his voice breaking from the horror of the sight.

Turning away from the horrendous instruments, Methodios noticed that flickering torchlight came thorugh one of the three doors that stood ajar on the other wall. Opening the door, Methodios entered the cell. An odour of decay and filthy straw assailed his nostrils. Hilarion was there,. kneeling on the floor by a lying man, the scowl on his face was even more marked than usual.

The man was lying on the side, his chest seemingly immobile. Dressed in tatters of what seemed to have been quality clothing, his body was covered inn grime and scabs. A metallic glint around one of the man’s finger caught Methodios’ attention. It was a signet ring bearing a single tower and a star. The man had to be of noble birth to carry such a ring, Methodios mused.

“Is he alive ?” Methodios asked, in a croaking whisper.

“Yes,” Hilarion answered “but only slightly. He’s missing two fingers on his left hand and an ear. He has several wounds all over the body. Some of them seem to have gone foul. The fever’s got him. He won’t be long from this world.” Looking intently at Methodios, Hilarion asked “Shall I put him out of his misery ?”

“No, if we found him now, I think Fate has still something in store for him. It means the Norns have not yet decided to cut his thread. Bear him out and find someone to heal him.”

While Hilarion got out of the cell and the adjoining room, Methodios was left to consider the man. Who was he ? Why was he confined thus ?

“Bjarki… Where is the proprietor of this devil-ridden house ?” Methodios asked, with a growl in his voice.

“We drove him out of town two days ago… Seeing how fast he ran, I’m not sure we can catch him…” Bjarki answered, seeing what Methodios wanted.

As Hilarion came back with four men bearing a stretcher, Methodios turned on is heels and headed towards the exit. Finally reaching the street, he relished the feeling of the warm afternoon sun on his face.

“Once they take the man out… Search the place for any clues to his identity, then burn the place… I don’t want a timber of it left standing…”

******

Two weeks later.

The man had remained unconscious over most of the last two weeks. He had awaken a few times from fever-created nightmares crying out in what Methodios had identified as Italian though he had been unable to discern any meaning from the gibberish coming out of the man’s lips. Nothing had been found of his identity, he remained a total stranger.

Two days ago, the fever had finally abated. Hopefully the mystery that had been nagging at the back of Methodios’ mind would soon find an answer. What had brought this men to that cell and to such a treatment ?

As if summoned by Methodios’ thoughts, Nikolas entered Methodios’ study after knocking on the door. He had settled into what had been the former mayor house, nothing out of the ordinary though it was the best Zagreb had to offer in the way of accommodation. It was large enough so that all of his men could have quarters in the same house and it had a stable in the back where the horses could be stalled.

“Our guest has awaken. I thought you would want to talk to him.” Nikolas said.

Pushing away the reports he had been reading, Methodios rose and followed Nikolas to the room that had been put to use as a sickroom for the former prisoner.

The man sat in bed when Methodios entered. Paleness, sunken cheeks and rosy scars were the signs that his full recovery was still some weeks away. Still, Methodios felt relieved to see that the man had survived his ordeal. Had his mind survived also ? he wondered.

“Good morning… Do you understand when I speak to you ?” Methodios asked.

“Yes…Where am I and who are you ? The last thing I remember is pain and darkness…” the man answered in an lilting Italian accent, though in perfect Greek.

“You are in Croatia… In Zagreb, to be precise. I’m Methodios Tagaris, Byzantine Comes, a Count in your lands… I govern the place in the name of the Roman Emperor, Aleksios Komnenos. We found you I the cellar of some house, where, it seems you received some rough treatment.”

“Zagreb… So that is where they have taken me…” A wan smile spread across the man’s face. Looking up at Methodios, he said “I thank you for my rescue my Lord. Were it not for you, I may have died in that cell. I am Giuliano Strozzi, Venetian knight.”

The man took a sip of water from the cup at his bedside. His thirst quenched, he began the telling of how he found himself in these pitiful situation.

He told of how he had been escorting a convoy to Ragusa, funds to the Venetian Councillor holding the castle. The man had argued for peace with the Byzantines when the news of taking of Durazzo had reached Venice. Being a faithful vassal of the Councillor, Giuliano had ridden with his retinue towards Ragusa. He went on to explain that more than a vassal he was also betrothed to the daughter of his liege. En route from Venice, he and his men were ambushed. Before he could do anything, he was taken down from his horse, bound and gagged while his men were slaughtered around him. He was laden in the back of a wagon and led to the cellar where he was found. There, he was questioned about the plans his liege had towards Constantinople. Finally, seeing that Giuliano didn’t have the answers their masters were looking for, they had hoped to ransom him back, cutting two of his fingers and his ears as proof of their hold upon him. But the plan fell short. From what his jailors told him, Giuliano had gathered that the Councillor, seeing the opposition to Byzance rise in Venice, had changed his mind. New political alliances were born and the Councillor’s daughter married to another elderly Councillor, the news of Giuliano’s death used to rescind the betrothal. He was then no more useful to his jailors than a pile of dung and had been left to rot in his cell. Only the arrival of Methodios’ men had saved him from certain death.

Taking another sip of water, Giuliano laid back unto the pillows, seemingly exhausted.

“And here I am, at my enemy’s mercy once again…”

“I am not your enemy… Though I may be the enemy of your country if they should cross our borders… You’re free to remain here and get better… Once your health is back, you are free to leave… You have suffered enough, it seems to me…”

“I thank you for your offer…” Giuliano said, visibly relieved. “I know of only one way I can repay you for saving me : take me in your service. I owe you my life. I will gladly give it for you. From what I have seen of you and your men, we see the world the same way… I can be of use to you… I cannot go back to Venice… I’m dead there… If I ever get back, it will be to take my revenge on those who betrayed me. We could help each other with this task…”

“Giuliano, welcome among the Athanatoi…” Methodios said, clasping the man’s arm.

******

Zagreb, 1095

It was a disgruntled Methodios that dismounted his horse. The whole ride back from Constantinople he had replayed in his mind the heated exchanges in the Magnaura.

It left a bitter taste in his mouth… “What got into me ? I’m a soldier not a politician… those men have tongues that lash more viciously than any sword… There was truly no chance for me to get elected… I’m not even noble… I must truly have been abandoned by God.. Even the Basileos sees nothing in me but a lone wolf….” were the thoughts that ran through his mind.

He had gone alone to the capital, entrusting the keeping of Zagreb to Bjarki and Giuliano. The man proved to be a good man, fair and just, though he took religion a bit too seriously for Methodios… He had sojourned in Rome some years before and had even met the Pope. He cherished the benediction he got that day, often telling of it as the reason behind his rescue by Methodios.

The two men were standing in front of what had become the Governor’s place. Seeing the dark look on Methodios’ face, they greeted him simply.

“Welcome back… How went the Senate talks?” Giuliano asked.

Methodios barged into the House, barely acknowledging his comrades. “Just a bunch of fools, yammering away...”

He went directly to what had become his study in the past months. He stopped dead when he crossed the threshold.

There was a man sitting behind Methodios’ desk. The man wore a dark-cowled robe and several pendants were glittering from tongs tied behind his neck. His hands were invisible, seemingly withdrawn into the ample sleeves of his garment, his arms crossed on top of the desk. His head was bowed forward, as if he was asleep.

Sensing a threat, Methodios’ hand went to his dagger but Bjarki’s own hand came to rest on his arm.

“The man is no threat, but you should speak to him…” Bjarki said, respect for the man in his voice. “He showed up two days ago…He knew your father…” With these words, Bjarki left with Giuliano, leaving Methodios to wonder about the man in the cowl.

As Methodios stepped nearer to the desk, the man lifted his head. The man was old… A fire-red beard with streaks of white covered the lower part of his face but the most striking element were his eyes : deep blue pools of icy water. A large scar contorted his face, going from the corner of his left eye to the corner of his mouth, giving him an almost mocking smile. The man was no Byzantine… He came from much further north…

“Who are you ?”

“Though my name will tell you nothing, I am Snorri the Taleweaver… I am a skald, a sorcerer and for some a fool… To you I can be what you wish…”

“I have no use of you” Methodios answered gruffly.

“That you do not yet know… But I know many things… Your father had use of me… He would consult with me before a battle… I wish he were here to tell you of how many times I saved his life… I can talk to the Gods.. Not the God that has forsaken you… The Old Gods.. The Gods of your Viking ancestors… For you may hide your origins behind that Greek name your parents gave you but I know the truth that lies within your heart… How you prayed before their altars because it was what was expected of you, not because of real faith… I know how in the deep of your soul, you long for the tales of battle of your father… The glory of dying on a battlefield with mounds of enemy’s corpse at your feet… The need for recognition from your peers even if they are not of your blood and never will be… The feeling of loss from seeing the men you craved to serve turn their back on you… All this I know and much more…”

Shaken by the man’s words, Methodios was taken aback. The man had never met him and yet his words mirrored almost exactly his own thoughts.

“How can you claim to know me so ?” Methodios asked, a tremor in his voice.

“Like I said, believe me or not, I can talk to the Old Gods… They have taken interest in you… you are destined for great things…” Taking out a leather pouch from his belt, the man emptied it on the desk. Small ivory pieces with dark engravings that Methodios recognized as Nordic runes spilled out of the pouch. “See, these runes are the messengers of the Gods… From them I can learn many things that would remain hidden for any other… With these, I can foretell your future though I must admit that at this point it is somewhat foggy… The Gods are arguing among themselves about you…”

“Did my father believe in this sorcery ?”

“Believe… Yes, he did… Though he would never have admitted it…And this is no sorcery…”
“Here… Let me show you…”

Gathering the ivory fragments into his hands and lifting them above his head, Snorri began making incantations in what Methodios recognized as Norse language. The few words he learnt from his father were no help in understanding the strange guttural sounds emitted by the sorcerer. Here and there names stood out “Thor… Odin… Loki…”

Then he dropped the stones on the desk. They clicked and finally settled. Looking at them intently, Snorri intoned in a cavernous voice, seemingly in a trance “Storm clouds are gathering over the Eagle’s nest… The Eagle has flown too high in the sky and know forks of lightning seek to strike him down… The Tiger has gone too far from his lair and he is now cut off from it… The lightning will seek to destroy the Tiger too… Will you fight Tiger or will you run ?”

Silence reigned after these last word. Snorri’s voice still rang in Methodios’ ears… Snorri had abruptly come out of his trance, his eyes focusing on Methodios.

“It seems the Gods still believe in you to have granted me the vision…”

“What can I do of all this gibberish ? I can see who the Eagle and the Tiger stand for but what of the storm and the lightning ?”

“This is for you to interpret… I am only the messenger… The meaning of the words is yours to discover… Trust in the Old Gods to show you the way…”

As if summoned by Snorri’s words, rumblings could be heard in the heavens. Soon after, flashes of lightning could be seen through the latticed window at the back of the room. Darkness had fallen outside though it was only the middle of the afternoon.

“See…The Gods will show you…”

Bjarki ran into the room, a harried look upon his face.

“Methodios, we have a problem… Our scouts have located an impressive force of men. They are headed this way… They’ll be here in only a few days if they keep up their pace…”

“How many of them ? Who are they ? Venetians ? Hungarians ?”

“No, they seem to be only rabble with a few professional soldiers thrown in but they number more than 1500… We can’t defend the city against so many…”

“You’re right… I don’t think we can… I’ll write to the Megas and the Emperor… I’ll try to get funds to hire some mercenaries… It is our only hope to stand against them…”

Turning to Snorri, who bore a smug smile (who was it his scar ?) and mouthed “the Gods”, Methodios remembered the words of the sorcerer.

“Will you fight Tiger or will you run ?”

******

[TheFlax]

((Written in collaboration with YourLordAndConqueror and PrivateerKev))

Antioch 1095

Only a few months had passed since she last came to Antioch, but for most nothing was amiss as they had no knowledge of her previous visit. This time she would not have to hide herself and thus, she entered the city in a carriage escorted by mounted men bearing the imperial colors. Slowly, they made there way through the widing streets of the city, until they reached the center square.

Iakovos watched as the carriage made it's way into the center square and stopped. Iakovos stood to one side with a few of his own guard.

The men escorting the carriage dismounted and one of them opened the vehicle's door. Anna emerged, wearing fine, but simple, silk clothing colored in a mix of white and light pastels. As usual, her head was adorned with a matching veil. Not even bothering with her escorts, she headed straight for Iakovos.

Iakovos bowed deeply. "It is good to see you here Princess Anna, and I thank you for your support in my project." Iakovos returned to his normal posture and smiled. "If you would but follow me, I can show you where we plan to erect the University."

Anna smiled. "I see you waste no time. Very well, lead me there."

Iakovos nodded in agreement as he began a brisk pace down the street. "I find it's better to be open and direct about my statements and intentions, don't you agree?"

Anna followed, a step behind him. "As in all things, circumstance dictates behavior. One who is not careful will soon find himself at a disadvantage, or worse..."

"Indeed, but I can speak freely for I have no enemies, something I am very thankful for." Iakovos halted suddenly and turned to look at Anna."What do you think? A rough start yes, but what it could become!" Anna's gaze fell upon a burned out shell of Imperial Roman design. Part of the roof had caved in from what seemed like an attack, the white marbeling had long been defaced in arabic and greek script, and it was covered in moss, lichen, and vine. What had once been a fountain now was a cracked bowl were plant life sprouted as in a chaotic frenzy to reclaim the once grand building for nature.

She moved from Iakovos' side in order to apparaise the building from a closer perspective. "A good choice, but there is much work to be done. I gather that this is where my solidus come in?"

Iakovos seemed embarassed. "Yes, indeed. Of course, any other help would also be appreciated. I can say at least the building does have a working well, but it requires the plants to be removed. Otherwise, what are your thoughts M'lady?"

Anna turned to face him. "You need reading material, writing equipment and other required implements essential in teaching. I shall make sure everything you need is gathered in Konstantinopolis upon my return and then sent to you by ship. I trust you will find suitable teachers and scholars?"

Iakovos smiled. "I have found a few willing to teach, yes. I am delighted that you're willing to help and came all the way from Constantinople to do so; I know few who would go to such lengths."

She nodded thoughtfully. "I do what I think best for the Empire. Although, you do realise my assistance comes at a price?"

Iakovos' smile failed to fade, it only shrunk. "I understand. And what would you need from me?"

Anna turned her gaze to the entrance of the building. "It is important for the regions far away from the capital to gain a sense of belonging to Empire. That is why you will add a statue of my person on top of a renovated fountain, naming me as chief patron of this university."

Now the smile left Iakovos face, to be replaced by a more thoughtful countenance. "I see no problem with such an arrangement, it is only the truth." Iakovos chukled to himself, returning his gaze back to Anna. "But it troubles me that you ask for a statue of yourself. I mean no disrespect, indeed I respect you more then you may know, but why not the Emperor himself?"

She returned her gaze on him. "My father will get more than one statue in this city and they will most certainly be in more eminent locations. Furthermore, he is not the patron of the project and I would not dare support it in his name without his consent."

Iakovos smiled. "I am sorry, forgive my rudeness, my inquisitive nature ran ahead of me."

Anna returned a polite smile. "Think nothing of it. You are not the first to question my motives. You can think me vain if you wish it so but I do this because I think it best."

Iakovos shook his head earnestly. "Vanity is not the first thing to come to mind M'lady, rather...I am sorry, it is something I prefer not to discuss in the open." Iakovos's demeanor changed to something a little more light hearted. "Now that we have reached an agreement, do you wish to visit the Order's Headquarters?"

She gestured for him to lead on. "It would be my pleasure."

Iakovos nodded and motioned to his guards to follow, who have been politely out of earshot while Iakovos and Anna spoke to one another. Iakovos led the party down the streets until they came across a small gathering of children. It took the children only a few seconds to realize who Iakovos was. Fear seemed to permeate the air. With a hard stare Iakovos looked at each one.

"And what are you children doing away from school? Did Levon let you out early?"

The children looked up at Iakovos. "Levon did, honest! We all got done early and so he just let us go!" Iakovos raised an eyebrow. "So if I go to the school, I won't find levon asleep again? And when I ask if he let you out early, he'll say he did?" The children nodded in agreement.

Iakovos smiled warmly and laughed. "Good, then go ahead and go. But I want you to be in early tomorrow, we have some new things to go over." Iakovos waved off the children before turning back to Anna. "Some of the less fortunate children of Antioch. Me and Levon take turns schooling them, and they've taken to it well. I hope to see them all at the University one day. Let's continue."

Anna nodded in comprehension and followed his lead.

After a few minutes, Iakovos and Anna made their way to the Order's Headquarter.

Anna recognized the building as soon as they neared it but strived to keep it from reflecting on her expression. Silently she anticipated another reunion with Makedonios. This visit had been the perfect excuse to be in his company once more and were he not in Antioch, she might not have made the trip in person.

Reining in her thoughts, she turned her attention to Iakovos once more. "Is your Grandmaster well enough to see me?"

Iakovos nodded. "I believe so, of course, I am sure you knew that." Before Anna could reply, Iakovos headed down the main hall, motioning for Anna to follow.

Makedonios was sitting up on his bed reading logistics reports. He looked up from a letter he was writing to request more supplies for the army when he heard footsteps. He saw Iakovos walk in first, and when he was about to greet him, he saw her. As always, he was stunned by her beauty. But he was even more surprised to see her appear in Antioch again. He just sat there for a moment and waited for someone to explain what was going on. There was plenty he would wish to say to the Princess right now but he was well aware of Iakovos' presence in the room.

Anna, upon witnessing Makedonios' surprise, spoke up before Iakovos had a chance to do so himself. She addressed Makedonios formally.

"Grandmaster, it is good to meet you once more. I trust I am not interrupting anything?"

Picking up her cue of formality, Makedonios straightened up and played along.

"Your Highness, it is good to see you. Please, both of you, come and have a seat."

Seeing both Iakovos and the Princess in the room together, Makedonios realized he had to get something out of the way.

"Before you tell me what this is about, I need to fill you in on something. Iakovos here knows you visited me here before the Magnaura session. He saw a servant girl he recognized and asked me about it. I told him that you were visiting on business. I'm sorry I never told you but so much was going on before the Magnaura session, that it slipped my mind. Now that is out of the way, what do we owe the pleasure?"

Iakovos chimed in before Anna. "Anna has come from Antioch to approve of the foundation of an Imperial University here. We have agreed to each others terms, and after surveying the site, I invited her her to the Headquarters. I have not erred in my judgment bringing her here, have I Grandmaster?"

Makedonios was amused at the idea that bringing Anna to his presence would ever be an 'error', but he didn't say it.

"Of course not. We always welcome Her Highness's visits to our humble corner of the Empire. I remember something about a school being mentioned in letters. But I didn't know that meant her coming here. I would have appreciated knowing beforehand but it seems Her Highness likes surprising me."

With that, Makedonios gave a smile to make clear he was in good spirits.

Anna returned a warm smile. "How else am I to keep the stoic grandmaster off-balance?"

Iakovos coffed into his hand to gain attention. "I am sorry for not notifying you myself Grandmaster, but Anna's letter did not arrive until she herself was already here. Nonetheless, I would ask for your approval for the material Anna has proposed. Anna, if you would elaborate please?"

Makedonios hoped his pale sickly skin would hide the slight blush from Anna's comment and he was saved when his Sergeant spoke up. He raised his eyebrow at the informality and simply said, "Of course, I would love to hear Her Highness's proposal" with a slight emphasis on her title to get the point across.

Anna slightly raised an eyebrow at Iakovos. "I am no teacher and as such I cannot elaborate on what I will be sending you. Surely you will trust in the judgement of the most brilliant minds in Konstantinopolis as to what is appropriate for your university?"

Iakovos shrugged his shoulders. "I do not doubt the ability of those who will be sending the materials from Konstantinopolis, but we here must also judge what will be suitable for the University your Highness."

Anna seemed unaffected by his words. "Then you expect me to know all of your needs, having them commited to memory before even coming here and then see if what I give you meets your approval?"

Iakovos was taken aback. "I am deeply sorry M'lady, I meant not to offend, but only to allow the Grandmaster to hear what might be sent so that we may judge it now, so the Empire does not waste money it does not need to."

Makedonios watched the bickering go back and forth between the two people. He finally had enough.

"Alright, both of you. Now can someone please tell me what this is about and what you need from me."

Even through her veil, it was possible to notice the sting caused by Makedonios' last reply.

"I simply wished to see you before I left again for the capital, I did not know I needed a reason to do so."

With those words, she turned slightly, as if leaving.

Makedonios was taken aback.

"Your Highness, I did not mean for that to come across that way. But you have to understand that the matter you two speak of is a touchy subject. From what Iakovos has told me, he wishes to do something for the orphans that lost their fathers when we took the city. It is an.. emotional subject to bring up with me so I admit I am prone to lose my temper if people do not get to the point with regards to helping the children. As for needing a reason to see me, of course you don't. But I know you're very busy. And for you to have come all this way to help Iakovos here is very noble and I appreciate it. Now that we're all here, would one of you please let me know what it is you need from me and we can get this project underway so the kids can get help as soon as possible."

To attempt to set the room at ease, Makedonios gives both of them a warm smile

Anna turned back, confused. "I need nothing from you concerning this, Makedonios. Verily, I cannot do much more for now save handing over the substantial funds I have brough with me."
He nodded to the Princess.

"I see, thank you for bringing that. It should help do a lot of good. If you would be so kind as to wait for a moment, I'll get to the bottom of this with Iakovos.

Makedonios raises an eyebrow at Iakovos.

"Then Sergeant, if Her Highness has brought the money, what is it that you need to see me about regarding the school?"

Iakovos snapped back and looked at Makedonios. "Indeed Grandmaster, we need labor and someone to head the project of the buildings restoration. I would volunteer myself, but I am teaching many of the Orphans as we speak. We could also discuss what should be taught in the school, and I would be happy for the Princess's input into this, as well as you Grandmaster. We are also in need of a sculptor for Anna. Since the money is here, all we need is the man power."

Anna shook her head lightly. "A sculptor won't be needed, I'll take care of that part. You have enough on your hands already, no need to tie up even more of your time and ressources with my whims." As she finished, she motioned for Makedonios to continue.

Makedonios watched the 'back and forth' before chiming in.

"A sculptor? Alright, but if you're wanting labor to build the school, you really should be talking to Brother Armatos. As Prince of Antioch, this really falls under his purview. You have my full support of course. As for needing someone to watch over the project, I suppose I can do that. I need to stay here and rest anyways. You Sergeant, are going campaigning soon. We're short-handed since Koulianos decided to retire from politics. As soon as the supplies sail into port, I'll need you to leave. So, you can get the project started and then I'll monitor it and make sure it proceeds. As for coursework, I'm afraid I can't help with that. My education was not formal."

Fixing the Sergeant with a look that made it clear that he would not accept an argument, Makedonios added, "Now, if there is nothing else, I need to ask Her Highness about something. I was planning on writing a letter, but since she is here, I can just skip that part. If you don't have any questions or comments, you may be dismissed. Good luck with the project and let me know if you need anything."
Iakovos was overjoyed at the news his Grandmaster had told him. He stood and saluted. "Thank you Grandmaster for your generosity and goodwill yet again!" With a bow to Anna, Iakovos quickly departed from the room.

Waiting for Iakovos to depart, Anna shot Makedonios an inquisitive look.

"What is it you wish to discuss?"

Makedonios shrugged. "You're the one that came to see me remember? And since when do I need a reason to want to talk to you?"

With that he flashed a warm smile.

She moved closer to him as she undid her veil. "You are right." Eying him with a concerned look, she added in a more serious tone. "How are you holding up?"

A shrug was his first reply. "My candidate lost for Megas. The Order is still trying to figure out how to deal with all of the orphans we created. The army is almost out of supplies. There are reports of rebellion all over the Empire. And I'm still stuck in bed sick."

He punctuated it by giving a big sigh.

"Running a Knightly Order or a House is harder than people think. I think I see why Kosmas is stepping down. Everyone wants something from you. No one is ever happy. I think you're the only one who doesn't ask me for anything. Not that I'd mind if it came from you though."

He smiled tiredly.

Before sitting beside him, Anna removed her hairpin and shook her head to loosen the now free hair. Age had given her sweet face a harder edge, as if she had weathered more than a few storms in the last years.

"You are weary enough, I need not add to your troubles. Is there any way in which I can grant you succor?"

While quite a few thoughts went through his mind, he simply smiled. And he was reminded that he really liked seeing her hair down.

"Listening to me rant is help enough. I just realized I don't have anyone to rant to. For morale and military discipline reasons, I can't rant to my men. I don't have any family. Any political allies I have stop short of being someone I can confide in. I appreciate very much you giving me a friendly ear."

Makedonios breathed deep.

"Alright, I think I got all of that out for now. Now, Your Highness, how are you doing? You've never added to my troubles. I've always been happy to help."

She looked at him earnestly. "Getting through these past few years alone have been trying. God's plan for me seemed so clear when this all started, and now I find my self unable to see a guiding light through the perpetual fog of doubt which surrounds me."

He nodded. "He does have a strange way of laying out his Plan. I feel the same way. It used to be simple. Now it isn't so simple. All you can do is have Faith. Faith in Him and faith in yourself. I'm curious, what did you expect that first Magnuara session? In some ways, you trained your whole life for that moment."

Anna answered without missing a beat. "I expected to be married."

Makedonios grunted. "I know I've been trying to help with that. At first, I thought I'd be patient after I asked your father for your hand. But I ended up waiting years. He never sent me a reply."

She sighed in frustration. "I know not what my father plans for me, but I am fast passing the proper age of marriage. Yet, there is little any of us can do about that. He will make his choice in due time."

He thought for a moment before speaking.

"I actually saw your father before I left to return here. It was... interesting. Believe me when I say, I tried everything I could think of to get him to choose me as your suitor. I don't think I convinced him. But, I do think I know who he intends for you to marry."

Surprise registered on her face for an instant. "So, my father has finally decided. Who shall it be?"

A concerned look marred his features. "He did tell me he decided on someone for you. I guessed as to who it would be but he didn't confirm it. But I think it is Ioannis Kalameteros. It is the only thing that makes sense. Your father made very clear that he wants you to marry a House leader. Tagamata and Komnenodoukai are already quite loyal to your family. Tepaki is too small. It wouldn't be any of the independent Senators. And it isn't anyone from the Order. It has to be someone from Asteri. And Kosmas stepped down and Ioannis just replaced him. I believe your father wants you to marry Ioannis to bind House Asteri to your family."

Anna maintained her composure, her expression nearly unreadable. "That would be the most obvious choice." Resignation tainted her voice. "I am sorry it has come to this, but I will do my duty. There is no point fighting my destiny."

Makedonios nodded and sighed. "I know you will. And I am sorry too. I wonder if there was something I could do to make myself a more palatable suitor. But what your father wanted, I could not do. I refuse to stay on as Grandmaster while married. It would have violated the trust those men have in me. But..."

He allowed himself a slight smile. "I might have thrown a snag in Ioannis' plans. I told your father the story you told me. I let him know that Ioannis threatened your life and that he played a part in your confidant's attempt to kill you, if only indirectly. He doesn't believe me of course but he can't just ignore it. And he will ask you about it. I'm sorry. I know you didn't want him to know. And I am sorry if this gets you in trouble. But I couldn't just stand there and do nothing as he married you off to that monster."

She shrugged. "I doubt my father will be swayed by a few threats on my person, we both know Ioannis would never follow through on them."

Makedonios raised an eyebrow. "I'm not so confident. He has shown a complete lack of regard for your safety and well being. He treats you like a thing. Do you really think that would change if you married him?"

Anna dismissed the question with a flick of her wrist. "What does it matter how he treat me? As long as he does not harm me, my father will not back out of this union. No, you may think whatever you want of Ioannis Kalameteros, but he is no fool. He will not love me, but it is in his best interest to see me well once we are joined as one in holy matrimony."

He quickly replied when she was finished. "Well, it matters to me how your treated."

His words made her smile. "Makedonios, we cannot always have what we want. Nevertheless, do not worry for my sake for I am more than able to look after myself."

With that it was his turn to shrug but she could notice emotion in his eyes. "Of that I have no doubt. But I wanted you to be happy. If I knew you would be truly happy with another, I believe I could go on through life relatively ok. Sad of course, but ok. But if you aren't happy, then it eats away at me like the sickness that has wracked my body for years."

Anna's smile faded, replaced by a strange intensity in her eyes. "We each have our own path, strewn with challenges. This is what I was born to do, this is my purpose. In a way, I am happy I can finally accomplish what I was meant for. If you wish to help me, than do not destroy yourself over this and instead gather your strength so that I may lean on you when my own wanes."

His shoulders slumped. "You ask an awful lot of me. But you've given a lot. I won't promise anything but I will... try..." The word 'try' felt like a lump in his throat and he could barely get it out.

She placed her hand on his. "I can ask no more of you, but know that I have faith in you Makedonios." Pulling back her hand, she rose. "I should take my leave now, for too long have I interrupted your rest."

Her hand felt hot on his. He didn't want the feeling to leave. But, as usual, she was right. So he nodded. "Interruptions from you I always look forward to. But it is probably time you should go. Scouts have reported an army coming this way. I need to get the city ready to repel an assault. Have a safe journey Your Highness and we will talk again. Just one thing. If... you become married to another, it may no longer be seen as proper for you to be traveling. Therefore, I do hope you'll write more." With that last, he smiled.

As she moved to leave, she turned slightly and gave him a half smile. "Worry not, I will make it proper." A moment later, she was gone, leaving Makedonios to his thoughts.

[OverKnight]

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Coop with TheFlax

Constantinople, 1095

The Basileus remained at his desk after Makedonios had left. The man's accusations and guesses at who would be Anna's husband convinced Aleksios that the matter needed to be dealt with as soon as possible, before rumors leaked out. Summoning a messenger, he sent for his daughter.

A short while later, Anna entered the room and performed a polite bow. She was dressed informally, in a light pink short sleeved tunica, complemented by a blue woolen stole and her hair were draped loosely on her shoulders. She addressed her father with proper respect.

"You wished my presence?"

Aleksios rose and embraced his daughter.

"Yes I did, I'm sorry for the perfunctory summons, but some information has come to light which I must deal with before tongues begin to wag."

Motioning to Anna to sit he spoke again, "I have just spoken with Grandmaster Makedonios. He pressed his claim to your hand. In doing so he made some rather startling accusations about Ioannis Kalameteros. The worst of which is that he is trying to have you killed."

Taking a seat himself, the Basileus continued, "Now, I think the man would say anything to marry you, but such rumors usually have a kernel of truth. Do you and Ioannis have some sort of conflict?"

A short time passed before Anna had fully taken in all of her father's words.

"Ioannis Kalameteros you say? Conflict would hardly begin to describe it. He has little respect for our family and more precisely, me. Makedonios fears he will harm me, but I do not think he would go so far."

Aleksios smiled ruefully, "Ah, to hear Ioannis tell it, you two were pooling information on various Senators and despite some conflict had a 'good relationship, based on trust and respect'. He also seems some how involved with the serving women who tried to kill you. Which perhaps is what Makedonios was ranting about. Would you like to elaborate on this Anna?"

Anna shrugged. "Was is there to say? Save that I discovered my most trusted servant was spying on me and then tried to kill me. It is a topic I would rather avoid. Suffice to say, Kalameteros did not ask her to take my life."

The Basileus sighed, "Very well, the reason I asked is that Senator Kalameteros has asked for your hand in marriage as well. I wanted your opinion on him as he is now an Antypatos and head of the Asteri. The Asteri have more land in the Empire than any other House. With the fall of Kosmas, your Brother's protege, we need to bind them to us once again. A marriage would accomplish this."

Aleksios leaned back in his chair, doubt crept into his voice.

"However, the more I learn, the less ideal such an arrangement sounds. After Makedonios's accusations, I needed to speak with you about Kalameteros, and your response has not added to my confidence. What are your thoughts about this Anna?"

She was tempted to lie in order to make the wedding less likely. Yet, that would be going against her duty to her family and the Empire, it would be going against her destiny. She steeled herself to maintain a cool and detached facade.

"It is as you said father, the Asteri must be once more bound to our family. In the long run, it does not matter what I feel about Kalameteros, we need him as an ally and above all we need to watch him closely. This, I can do for you father. For your sake and for our family's sake, I will endure Kalameteros and play the role of the loving wife and I will make sure they never betray us."

The Basileus looked relieved and saddened at the same time. He stood and crossed to his daughter, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Anna, you are perceptive as always. I am sorry that duty and happiness could not be intertwined in this. I hope Ioannis will be a better husband than you give him credit for and that the match will eventually bring you a measure of happiness."

Aleksios gave her a comforting pat on the shoulder.

"It gives me little joy to marry my children to barbarians, the Rus Eupraxia your Brother never mentions, or political allies, but it must be done. The Empire must be secured, our family must be secured."

He spoke again, more quietly, "So watch Kalameteros, Anna. I hope for the best, but if he betrays our trust, if he hurts you in any way. . .I'll bring the Empire down on his head."

Anna's voice echoed his. "I know you will." She seemed on the verge of shedding a tear but quickly returned to an impassive state. "How soon?"

Aleksios rubbed the bridge of his nose, "I'll let Kalameteros know and then announce the engagement publicly. The timing of the wedding is up to you."

She gave a slight nod in acknowledgment. "I shall make the arrangement with him, I am sure he will be pleased with me if I show myself to be considerate."

Aleksios grunted and knelt to be face to face with her, "Don't be too considerate Anna. You are my daughter, a Princess of the Roman Empire and born into the Purple, he's marrying up. He would do well to remember that, to be reminded of that, lest he grow complacent."

He kissed her forehead.

"I am proud of you."

Those words illuminated Anna's features with a bright smile. "Is there anything else?"

The Basileus shook his head, "Nothing at the moment. I have some rebels to put down and I'm sure you have some battles of your own to attend you. Let me know if you need anything."

With a few steps backward, she bowed curtly, before finally exiting the room.

After his daughter left, Aleksios sat down heavily in his chair. He bowed his head and sighed. Looking up across his desk, he noticed the silver cup Makedonios had drunk from still there. With a growl, he lashed out, sending it flying across the room. Crashing against the wall, the cup fell to the floor and began to roll, spilling water as the Basileus started another letter.

[_Tristan_]

Storm clouds gather
Zagreb, 1095

Milos Kovacs had been summoned to the house occupied by the Byzantine governor and his men. The face of the once jovial engineer and trader bore the signs of anxiety and perplexity.

A large force of rebellious rabble had been spotted a few days march from Zagreb and it did not bode well for the city. From the contacts that Kovacs had had by way of some of his men, they claimed to come and liberate the Catholics of Zagreb from the Byzantine occupation…

“Pfah… What nonsense…” Kovacs thought

Tagaris, the self-appointed governor of the city, had been most fair in his dealing with the inhabitants. Religion seemed to be of no matter to him, as long as the men worked for the improvement of the city.

Since his arrival, the roads had been improved and plans had been drafted for the building of barracks for a town militia. People from the country had begun to flock to the city to sell their wares, some even settling, increasing the number of people living inside the walls.

All had been to the good since Kovacs had convinced the Town Council to accept Byzantine rule. Even his own position had improved : he was now First Councillor, head of the Council.

And now, this whole lot of rabble sought to take that from him… For Kovacs was sure of one thing, once they “freed” the town of Byzantine presence, Hell would break loose. You simply could not trust such miserable rabble to act honourably.

Still wondering why he had been summoned, Kovacs finally reached the headquarters of Tagaris. He was greeted by the Venetian knight Giuliano who led him inside to Methodios’ study.

Knocking on the door and going in without waiting for an answer, Giuliano announced him.

“Methodios, Master Kovacs is here to see you, as you wished.”

Putting back a letter on his desk, Methodios bore a dejected look on his face. Rising from his seat and shaking Kovacs’ hand, Methodios asked him to sit down.

Going back to his desk, Methodios snatched the letter he had been reading and began pacing in front of Kovacs. Finally turning to him, the Governor imparted the dire news.

“What I have here is a letter from our Megas Logothetes telling me that he won’t lift a finger to save Zagreb from the rabble threatening it… What’s worse is that even the Basileos endorses his decision…He won’t even send me funds to hire some mercenaries and have them help keep control of the city… Damn politicians…”
Kovacs felt a lump of lead in the pit of his stomach.

“So were doomed…”

“Not yet…The rabble threatening us only has a score to settle with the Empire, it seems. Their only interest in Zagreb lies in depriving the Empire from one its provinces.” Methodios explained, trying to reassure Kovacs “So I want to deprive them of their objective : I will relinquish my claim on Zagreb and try to obtain compensation from the Hungarians for my release of our hold in their favour. Captain Compold has been most amenable to my inquiries and should soon receive word from Budapest… I don’t think they will refuse… They had their eyes set on Zagreb before we snatched it from under their nose…They will think it only a just return of things… I have already requested that a clerk from the Imperial Diplomatic Corps be sent our way to draft the treaty…”

“So you seek to abandon us ?” Kovacs said, unable to believe what he just heard.

“You can’t expect me to contain 1500 with only the 25 of us… None of the city’s men are fit to fight… I would not send them to certain death… I had received enough funds to recruit some mercenaries, I would have tried to keep the wolves at bay but as things stand…” Methodios put a wavering smile on his face “Don’t worry, you’ll be in good hands… The Hungarians treat their people fairly and I hope that once the rebellions are in check, I will be able to convince the Magnaura to buy Zagreb back from them…”

“I see your point… Let us just hope that Lydham and his men are not after Zagreb, whatever the cost… I have much more confidence in your abilities to stand up to them than those of this Hungarian captain…”

“Lydham is a religious zealot but a good general… Hungarians are good Catholics… He won’t risk excommunication simply to take Zagreb when what he hopes to accomplish is driving the Empire out of our northernmost provinces… To achieve that he needs as many men as possible and fighting the Hungarians will not only cost him men but could have them swoop down on him.. Plus he needs to drive to the core of our provinces the faster he can before we can muster reinforcements… So I think you’ll be safe… If ever he makes the mistake of laying siege to your city, I will ride back and do my utmost to free you and your fellow town-folk, even if I have to do it with only my followers…”

“I know I can trust you to do your utmost for us… I’m just sad to see you go, I guess…” Kovacs said, sadness in his voice “I had great plans for us in this town.”

“Keep on planning… I will be back one day… I promise you, Milos… If I survive the ordeal that the Empire is facing, I will be back…”

Several days later, Kovacs stood upon the battlements of the city, watching the receding cloud of dust that the hooves of the kataphraktoi’ horses lifted as they rode east towards Belgrade.

“Godspeed, my friend… Come back to us…”

Once the dust cloud was no longer visible, Kovacs slowly got down from the battlement. He was joined by Goran, the captain of his guard.

“Captain Compold wishes to see you, Master…”

******

[_Tristan_]

A toast to fools
At an inn on the Zagreb-Belgrade road, 1095

The inn stood by the side of the road, halfway from Zagreb to Belgrade. A large patio opened to one side, the view opening on the slow waters of the mighty Danube.

In the patio, Methodios sat at a table with Giuliano. They had arrived at the inn, two days before and Methodios had chosen this place to call a halt to rest their horses. Not far from where the inn stood was a bridge that jumped across the waters. Small fishing boats plied the waters while bigger merchant barges laden with goods were pulled along the banks by teams of powerful horses.

Methodios contemplated the scenery, a sombre look on his face, a look that had not left him since they had left Zagreb. A flagon of wine stood on the table, and though Giuliano seemed to relish the taste of it, Methodios’ cup was still untouched.

Intent on bringing his friend out of his dark thoughts, Giuliano lifted his glass for a toast..

“Here’s to our Hungarian allies !!! What fools they are !!!”

“There is nothing to rejoice about, Giuliano” Methodios answered, chidingly.

“Surely, there is… The deal you brokered with the Magyars will both insure that Zagreb population gains Hungarian protection and that your country’s treasury is full to the brim, money that could be spent to deal with the uprisings we have heard about… Surely this is cause to rejoice…” Giuliano argued.

“Zagreb is not out of danger… Lydham is a good general but I don’t know how much control he has over the rabble serving under him… Their greed may well overcome their religious zeal and have them prey on Zagreb… And I still remain an outcast… I can already hear how some of those Magnaura word-twisters will make the deal seem like another way for self-advancement on my part… It seems like there is never enough I can sacrifice for the Empire… How can I prove that I seek nothing but to serve in the best interests of the Empire ?”

“What do you mean ?” inquired Giuliano.

“See… I took Dyrrakhion from some Italian-paid rebels. I had pledged I would not claim it for myself and I acted on my promise, giving it back to the Basileos. Now, I have sacrificed my lands, for I see them as such, to save the people of Zagreb and obtain a king’s ransom out of it and still I feel like it is not enough… Whatever I’ll do, it will never be enough for these men… Is it because I am not of the nobility or because I have Norse blood running through my veins ?” I don’t know…”

“Surely you do not believe that… I am sure that some will be grateful of the bounty you offered to the Empire… And remember : there was no other course of action… We couldn’t stand up to that many men… It would have meant certain death, or worse, capture and ransom… You did the right thing…”

“Still, it rankles… I cannot even be sure that any of those funds will be used to give me some men to take on this rebellious rabble…”

“What will you do now ?” Giuliano asked.

“Ride to Belgrade and follow the Megas’ orders… There is nothing else I can do now…”

Silence then hung heavily over the two men, leaving each to their own thoughts.

The words of Snorri still rang into Methodios’ mind : “Will you fight Tiger or will you run ?”

******

[pevergreen]

Constantinople, 1096

Michail sits down at the counter of his favourite tavern and orders an ale. Sitting next to him is his right hand man, Efstratios.

“How slow the Magnaura has become of late Efstratios” Michail remarks.

"I agree. And I find the Senate to be nothing more than a group of squabbling delegates, unprepared for the awesome responsibilities of running an empire. I don't think they realize I am among the most experienced and hardened among them.

I am ready for these outlaws which have sprung up along the countryside since the good Methodios Tagaris took Zagreb. My sword has not been swung in some time, and I am anxious to cut down some fools who dare oppose the emperor."

“True, Efstratios, true. However, I am not too eager to find a fight, but I can handle myself well enough if one comes to me. But you are right. We have no future here in the west. I have been thinking. It may be time for some changes, I was thinking towards rescinding control of House Tepaki to you, as you have more experience in that area than me. It also seems that a re-organisation is needed. I propose that we form into more of a mercenary company orientated house. We can hold certain settlements, providing a steady income, but let us sell our services out! In exchange for whatever we please. I will move back towards the second-in-command as a treasurer and after we have made some advancement, we may reform again. What say you Efstratios?”

"I think it's a splendid idea. I admit I have often wished I were the ruler of one of the houses of the realm... I am honoured by your plan and think it's a good idea. Your father would have been very proud of your wisdom."

“My father…” Michail trails off, lost in thought.


1075: The Shanty Seaman:

A small boy gathers his cloak up around him, backing into the corner, hoping to hide himself amongst the shadows, afraid of the men that are trailing him. His loot hidden in the cloak’s inside pocket, this young Michail holds his breath, knowing that the officers after him will enter his father’s shop. As the men fan out, a lantern is lit and Michail hears his fathers voice “What are you grunts doing? Get out of my house!”

“Sir,” the officer spits out “Your son has been stealing again. This time we are going to get him.”

Michail’s father sighs, and reaches into his pocket, digging out 5 golden coins.

“Will this get him out of it?”

The officer steps forward and examines the coins.

“Good enough. Just don’t let him do it again.”

As the officers leave, Michail comes out of the shadows.

“Michail, you have to stop stealing. Remember what our plan is. The only future for you is the Magnaura. Us Romans will thrive again, just make sure we go to the west. The west has more sea, and more profit for us Michail. We need you to do this, for our family”

Michail remembered his father’s speeches about the west, and knew for the survival of his family that expansion that way was needed. The more boats needed building, the more the Shanty Seaman would be hired.

“Michail, just 6 more years and you will reach your majority and be introduced to the world of politics. That position awaiting you cost a lot, but not more than we stand to lose. This is for your family son. The Arianitis name must live on.”

Efstratios shook Michail to snap him out of it.

“Your mind seemed to be wandering. Now about that reform…”

“Yes, yes Efstratios. It will happen. I’m not sure I want to give up the vow or my title as Despot of Epirus. My head aches, and I’m covered in ale. We shall meet tomorrow and discuss this more Lord Efstratios.”

“Lord Efstratios….I like the sound of that.”

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

ATPG lines done by him

[TheFlax]

((Written in collaboration with PrivateerKev))

Antioch 1096 (A few hours before the Battle of Antioch)

A cloud of dust rushed toward Antioch as three armed riders rushed to the city and only slowed when they neared the guards manning the northernmost gate. All three looked ragged and haggard, but none so more than the man at the lead. His light brown hair was matted with sweat and grime, his goatee crusted with blood, his hard face bore the sign of a recent struggle with a cut still fresh on his thin lips; but above all, his eerily wild eyes transfixed, of only for an instant, those who met them. Similarly equipped as his two companions, he wore a patched up frayed leather kabadion with most of its pteruges missing, a lithe paramerion hung at his side with a smashed up pommel and a tzikourion hanging from his saddle.

Nearing the men manning the gate, Areovindos hailed them while halting his horse and his companions.

"I seek an audience with the lord of your city."

The guards looked the travelers over. They did not seem Muslim. There was an enemy army bearing down upon the city but it was not besieged yet.

"An audience eh? Your lucky if we let you in at all. But, the Grandmaster has given orders to let the surrounding people take refuge in the city before the siege occurs. You three may go in. If you want to attempt to seek an audience, make your way to the center of the city. The Grandmaster has a command tent set up in the city center to coordinate the defense. One of his men will stop you and you can explain it to him. Proceed."

Areovindos motioned the two men forward and all three passed through the gate, intent on the center of the city. Even though unfamiliar with the layout of the streets bustling with activity, they soon found their way to the command tent situated in the city center. Areovindos dismounted and approached them before repeating the request he had given gate guards.

A man at a table in front of the tent was the stopping place for the three men.

"State your business. We're very busy here. You best not waste the Grandmaster's time."

Areovindos dug through a dirty pouch and produced a battered seal. He addressed the man with an attempt at a formal tone. "I am Strator Areovindos ek Samou and I have pressing offer for your lord."

The aide eyed the seal of nobility. He was a bit suspicious but the seal, while battered, was unmistakable.

"Alright, leave your weapons here and I'll walk you in."

When Areovindos placed his prized paramerion on the table, his companions quickly joined him and did likewise.

The three men were taken into a large command tent. Various tables were set up with maps on them. Unit commanders confered around the tables. In one corner, a bed was set up. Flanked by guards, Makedonios sat on the bed reading various unit reports. He looked up as the three approach. The aide announces, "My lord, these men wished to see you."

Putting a report down, the Grandmaster simply stared at the men and waited for one of them to speak.

Recalling vaguely some of the things he had learned in his childhood, Areovindos gave a curt bow before addressing the Grandmaster.

"Time is pressing and so I will not waste time. I have heard there is an large army of rabble marching on your city. I offer my services and those of my twenty-two men, in exchange for sheltering my people who number at about four score."

That got Makedonios to raise an eyebrow.

"And where are your 'people' at this moment?"

Areovindos considered the Grandmaster for a moment before responding. "A few miles away, no more than three by my estimate."

Makedonios turned to the aide who brought the men in. "Arrange a patrol to go and escort those people into the city. Set up quarters, food, and medical care for them. See to it personally."

Makedonios then turned to Areovindos. "Could one or both of your men here go with the patrol and show my men where your people are at? We should bring them in now. You're right, an enemy army is marching towards the city from the north as we speak. The patrol will leave at once."

Areovindos nodded to the two men he had brought, indicating they should follow the aide and then turned to Makedonios. "Thank you. I take it then you accept my offer?"

Makedonios nodded.

"I accept your service in defending the city. We need all the help we can get. 1500 of the enemy are marching here right now. And my army is only half that size, and untrained, as well as un-blooded. Our only advantage is in the large number of nobles we have on hand."

"Marshall Armatos is outside the walls with 3 of my Sergeants as we speak. We will let the enemy come and siege the city. When they roll up their lumbering towers, we will sally. At the same time, Armatos will hit the army on their right flank. I'll need you with me on their left flank."

"I need to stay by the army for moral purposes so I'll need you to go out on the far right wing of our army. Your job is to prevent their cavalry from flanking us. And to help me flank them. Accomplish this, and I'll see you have a place here in Antioch if you want it."

Areovindos paused, seemingly playing out the scenario in his mind before acknowledging the Grandmaster's words. "Understood, I will assemble my men as soon as they arrive. I do not wish to impose, but would you have per chance any armor to spare? Our years in Anatolia have left us woefully unequipped."

Makedonios nodded. "Of course, you and your men can help yourselves to the armory. Let me know if there is anything you need. Then I suggest you get some rest. Your going to need it."

Areovindos gave another curt bow before withdrawing. There was much do be done before the battle and he had much to prove.

[flyd]

I do remember it well, in a way. I don't remember the general day-to-day events, and couldn't give you a timeline, but there are images, sounds, and just moments that are in my memory as if they were two hours ago. I should have been eight at the time.

Before moving to the city, we used to live in a village that was maybe a mile outside Iconium. Most of my extended family lived in the same village. I guess we were shepherds. We had sheep. We had lots of sheep. Most of my early memories seem to involve sheep. My father had just started taking me with him to watch the sheep when he was called up into the army. I don't actually remember him leaving, I guess it didn't stick with me because I did not see its significance at the time, but he sure didn't come back. It wasn't long after that that we left the village, probably on the theory that it was safer behind the city walls. I do remember leaving. It was very strange watching people let their sheep out into the wilderness before they left.

So, I was six when we moved to the city, I think. Yes, we were there for two years, '71 to '73. We, that is my mother, little sister, and me, lived with my aunt in a small, run-down house near the city wall. And that was a strange time. I had been to the city many times before, often staying with these relatives, but this time people were acting oddly. The adults, I should say. The kids still played as always, but the adults were worried. Worried is a good word. If I was walking down the street with my mother, and saw someone we knew, there wouldn't be a jovial "Hey! Good morning! How are the sheep!?" but instead some serious and solemn conversation about "the Turks" would start. "The Turks," that's all anyone ever talked about. They had gone to this place and that, and did this and that. And they would be coming here, or wouldn't, depending on who you asked. The most detailed answer I ever got about what "the Turks" were was "very bad people." Nobody wanted to talk to you about it, just because you were eight. So I imagined them to practically be monsters. Giants, with big claws and sharp teeth. Honest to God, when I first met a Turk some years later in Constantinople, I was very surprised. He was short and skinny! I'm sure he could not even bite my head off. Oh yes, some of the rumors were perpetuated by adults. "Go to bed or the Turks are gonna come and eat you." I'm sure it worked well.

In any case, we left very suddenly. One day they said the Turks were here. And it was for sure this time. People were leaving, and we were too. I recall there was a lengthy argument between my mother and aunt, as the latter refused to leave her house and all her possessions. And it was a strange thing to do, to leave with only what you could carry, and even that was mainly food, blankets, some clothes, and whatever valuables you had. Still, I don't really remember anything we left behind, I suppose we didn't have that much in the first place. But some of the people who left with us made some strange, strange decisions on what to take. Some of them had wagons and mules or oxen, and I distinctly remember one family that had taken with them all their furniture: beds, tables, chairs, everything. It must have made sense at the time, after all, where would they sit, sleep, and eat? Though I do seriously doubt any of those objects made Nicaea in the end.

It was a journey of several days, though how many exactly I could not tell you. It was very far, and it was very cold. At first it was more far than cold. I remember a terrible soreness in my legs, but I'll be damned if I complained once. All the kids complained, they wanted to go home, but I said not a thing. I even refused offers to be carried, and did walk the entire way. Sister had to be carried, and there were always men around who were willing to do it. The food that we brought did not last long, although it was never much of an issue. Most of the villages on the way had already been abandoned, and among the things they abandoned were stores of food, not to mention livestock who were out and about in the wilderness. At least in the first part of the trip, it was mainly the distance that was the issue. At night we most often slept on the ground with our blankets, although on two occasions we slept over in abandoned villages. The group of people eventually spread out and split into smaller groups as some made faster and some slower progress.

It was the second part of the journey that was more tough. The terrain closer to the coast had gotten mountainous, and we did have to scale a proper mountain pass. Going uphill was even worse, but at this point, the issue of distance had taken a secondary place compared to the cold. I think it got colder in general, it was raining every other day, and the increase in elevation did not help things. It was not long before we started seeing people getting sick and dying. At first you'd see people digging graves and performing funeral services along the route, but after a while you just saw bodies lying on the ground. Mainly the elderly at first, but all kinds of people eventually. At that point, I remember only the cold. And it was very cold. I had given my blanket to my sister after she developed a cough, and I was very cold. And despite my very warm blanket, sister's cough continued to get worse. One morning I woke up and she was not there, so I refused to leave. Mother and the others who were with us tried to convince me that she had gone ahead with a group of people, and I was eventually convinced, but then insisted on walking faster so that we would catch up. I wanted to run out ahead, but they would not let me, and I was absolutely furious. It was only when my mother started crying that it came to me, and that is when I stopped asking questions.

When we arrived at Nicaea, we found the place packed. There were people from all over Anatolia there, and more coming in every day. We were told that we could rest for a day, and were given food and shelter for that day, but then had to move on, as more people were coming in, and not everyone could be taken care of. We left Nicaea towards the Bosporus, but when we got there, we found that we had to pay our own way across. Can you imagine that? It was very expensive, and only in selling everything but the clothes on our backs did mother and I afford to sail across to Constantinople.

Mother died about three years after we arrived in Constantinople. I did various jobs, and was for the longest time a fisherman of all things. Although I was also involved in a number of not-quite-legal things, and did learn to handle myself with weapons. I would have become a soldier, but the army was in decline, and there was no opportunity. I moved out to Thessalonike looking for work when I was thirteen. Now I do believe I have related the story of how I came to be the Comes of Thessalonike many times to many people, but you, my dear, are the very first person to have heard this story related.

[AussieGiant]

Near Bucharest 1098

The road towards the Bucharest had been swift and organised. Apionnas's heavy cavalry had initially struck out ahead of the two Militia spear regiments, leaving markers for the them to follow. Once the terrain had clear Apionnas had halted to rest his regiments mounts and had waited for the militia units to catch up so he could direct them towards the town as his scouts had planned. The cross country route was a risk but they had made good time and were now within a year of their destination.

It was here that things changed. He had moved away from his unit to meet with the two militia captains, both men and their second-in-commands where now approaching on foot at a brisk pace, a fifth man another 10 yards behind them. The tension in their movements alerted Apionnas that something was not as it should have been.

At fifty yards all five men drew their swords, the sun shone dully from their blades.

Glancing past the approaching militia men, he could see that both regiments had halted some half a mile away in clear view. It seemed as if the whole incident was going to be a spectacle somewhat like a gladiator duel.

So be it though Apionnas, their intentions are clear.

The composite bow he always carried suddenly appeared in his hand. Turning his horse ninety degrees he drew aim over his right shoulder.

Before the militia men had taken a further step one dropped suddenly, a gurgling sound the only noise that could be heard. With another flash, a second arrow shaft protruded from the body of the largest man, the barb had bitten deep, and the victim pitched forward without a sound.

They spread into a concave skirmish line. The flanks were circling, closing, the sun catching on their blades.

Then there was two. The crack of an arrow head impacting on skull shattered the distance between them. Eyes wobbled unnaturally, and the central figure in the group sank slowly to his knees. In those seconds, while the survivors faltered Apionnas pressed home. Casting his bow aside he stepped down from his horse and advanced on the left most man.

Steel clashed. He danced back, coaxing, chiding. Enraged, the militia man came in pursuit, striking out, forgetting himself, his eyes and muscles straining with exertion. He had been chosen for a reason. Apionnas feinted, parried and lunged. The militia man blocked with a flick of his wrist and a circling of his blade. He was good, but the sand held in Apionnas's hand blinded him and the following kick to the groin had its desired effect. Wiping sand from his eyes he shouted with rage, staggering forward. He overreached. With a side step Apionnas let him pass, aided his journey with a dagger thrust to the stomach, a beheading while he fell.

In desperation and a strange fatalism, the surviving militia man did not give up. Crouched low he focused on his defence. Apionnas wiped his scimitar on the breaches of his headless victim and tested the grip in his palm. Damascus steel possessed an appetite. He smiled respectfully at his opponent and spoke to him in Arabic.

'Your companions are dead. Surrender or face your God.'

His offer was declined, its rejection answered by a frenzied sword. With a sway of his waist and a billow of his Mansuriyya blue robe, the militia man was dispatched with a single blow.

All five down.

Mounting his horse he galloped towards the militia regiments. Behind him came the rest of his unit. Reigning in the white stallion bred entirely for hunting and war the Saracen looking officer, now in the employ of the Basileus himself, raised his voice.

'It seems as if there were some concerns with my appointment.'

Silence and a shiver of fear through the ranks was the only response.

'I hope I've answered those concerns and eased your fears over everything that is troubling you...if any of you wish to speak now is the time.'

Silence.

'Excellent. I'm glad there are no further issues.'

Glancing at his own captain, he nodded at the militia regiments. 'Select new captains, and make sure they are more reliable than the last.'

[Ituralde]

The Black Sea Coast, 1099

"Why are we stopping uncle?"

Christos followed the gaze of his great-uncle Pavlos towards the small roadside chapel. It was nothing more elaborate than a small alcove the height of a man, covered by a tiled roof and small cross adorning the top. It was also in a bad state of repair. Little plaster was left and several stones had already loosened the roof lacked tiles and the interior of the alcove had been overgrown by vines long since.

Waving his nephew to silence Pavlos continues to stare at the alcove. A cracked stone tablet was barely visible through the tangled vines but to the eyes of Pavlos the writing on it was as clear as on the day he first laid his eyes on it. "Aleksios Tsolakis" he voiced silently. It had been a long time since he had seen the name, since he had even dared think about the name.

It had been different times, for one thing Trebizond had been in the firm grasp of the Empire. A region that had been settled by Greeks since before Aleksanders conquests, it had always belonged there with everything that entailed. Imperial intrigues had been the downfall of his father. Support the wrong man at a time when there had been more Emperors in a year than horse races and you could loose more than your life. It had been safer then to adopt his mother's maiden name. Chrysovergos was safe, Tsolakis wasn't. Or hadn't been back then, the Emperor responsible for his father's death had himself been killed a long time ago. But with the turmoil the Imperial grip had also weakened. Too long had Trebizond lain outside of the Empire.

Tearing his gaze from the small chapel Pavlos looks at the surrounding landscape, the rolling hills, interspersed with woods, rising ever so gently from the Sea right towards the mountains in the South. Taking a deep breath one of the rare smiles appeared on his face. It smelled like home.

[Privateerkev]

Antioch: 1099

Makedonios walked down the street with the aid of his cane. With Nick and a couple guards in tow, he hobbled down the narrow side streets until he came to the apartment he sought. Looking at a slip of paper to confirm the address, he knocked on the door. A woman with head covering opened up and looked at him.

"As-Salamu Alaykum", he greeted in Arabic.

She looked at him puzzled but quickly replied, "wa `Alaykum As-Salām."

He stood as straight as his sickness would allow. "Greetings, I am Grandmaster Makedonios and I am the ruler of these parts. May I come in?"

Her eyes narrowed through the slit in her head dress but she nodded and opened the door further. Makedonios removed his shoes and walked in alone. His men took up positions outside.

Entering the small living room, the woman asked if Makedonios wanted anything to eat or drink. He asked for tea, which she quickly left to get. She shouted someone's name and an elderly woman came out of a bedroom, also covered. The elderly woman simply stood there and beared witness for it was not proper for a man and woman to be left alone in a room together. The woman returned with the tea and offered Makedonios a seat.

He took a sip. "Thank you for this meeting. I've been wanting to talk to you. I was the commander in charge of the army that took this city a few years ago. I was injured and rendered unconscious. During that time, the army, lacking nobles to lead it, killed many of the men in the city. From our records, your husband was one of those men."

The woman sat there and stared for awhile. Finally she spoke. "He was. Why did you come here?"

He answered her directness with some of his own. "This land was under Byzantine rule for hundreds of years. We believed it was time to reinstitute that rule."

"We were doing fine. We were under no Kingdom. We did not need, nor want, your rescue."

Her eyes were accusing. He took another sip of his tea. "The Empire will usher in a new age for the Holy Land. And my organization will safeguard this area from bandits and foreign powers."

With that, she snorted. "A new age? Of what? And to us, your the foreign power."

Calmly, he replied. "We've been stewards of this area for centuries. We're only returning things to how they rightfully should be. We will spread the light of the Empire and the Truth of Orthodoxy."

Another snort. "Orthodoxy? That isn't our way. You will regret coming here and trying to tell us how to live and what to believe. Even now I've heard you can not get supplies from the vendors or local populace."

He shrugged. "I did not come here to argue. I came to tell you I am sorry about what happened with your husband. Even though I was unconscious, I am the one responsible for what occured. I want you to know that there is a school being built in the city for the children of the men killed here. Our records show you have a son. Please come by the city center and there will be tables there where you can get him registered."

As she stared at him, he sipped the rest of his tea and got up. "Thank you for the tea. Khuda Hafiz."

Makedonios walked out and put his shoes back on. Nick and the other bodyguards came up to him. "How did it go my lord?"

The Grandmaster simply shrugged. "About as well as could be expected."

The group walked down the side street towards another address.

While walking, Makedonios thought to himself, One family down, one thousand nine hundred and seventy eight families to go...

[ULC]

Antioch 1098

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Co-Op done with TheFlax

Iakovos sat at his desk pouring over the records for the reconstruction of the building and the letters between him and several distributors about the buildings materials that had to be shipped to Antioch for the construction of the University.

Anna had been kind enough to supply Iakovos with her patronage, so money was not a real worry, only making sure it went were it was supposed to. Iakovos sighed to himself, and leaned back in his chair. Everyday he felt more and more like an administrator, and every day he had less and less time to himself.

Rubbing his tired eyes, Iakovos stood up from his seat and went in search of a cup of tea. His head continued to swim with facts, measurements, and figures, and he hoped the tea and a little break would calm his mind.

A few minutes latter, Iakovos returned to his study, pushing over the door and suddenly stopping dead. His desk was a mess, and it was obvious many of his documents were missing.

Candles dimly illuminated the room as the sun slowly faded from the darkening sky over Antioch. Sitting at an opulent oaken desk, Anna wove words upon a parchment with calligraphic care. So intent was she on her task, she had lost track of time and was mostly oblivious to her surroundings.

A quiet knock came from Anna's door.

It went unanswered as she poured her undivided attention on the words she committed to paper.

The knock came again, much louder this time, and was accompanied by a voice. "Your Highness?"

The quill halted its unrelenting progress as Anna lifted her head, irked at the interruption.
"What is it?" She answered in an annoyed tone.

The voice answered. "It's a message your Highness. One of the servants came by and handed to me, said it was urgent and from the Capital."

Storing her quill, she rose and settled her self beside the desk. "Very well, come in."

The door creaked open and a guard entered, one of the newer ones it appeared. He held out a scroll with the Imperial seal on it.

Anna held out an expectant hand.

The guard quickly handed it over and with a bow ducked out of the room, closing the door after he left. A sudden stillness descends on the room.

Breaking the seal, she unfurled the letter and read it.

"A message to the Princess Anna Komnenos. Meet me at the University Fountain."

Anna dropped the letter on the desk and took out cloak and a head scarf. Moments later she was exiting the building with two guards in two. Cautious about the dimming light in the streets, the three attempted to keep a low profile as they made their way to the University.

The streets were extremely quiet, only the nearby gurgling of the fountain could be heard at all. A slight breeze picks up, and a disembodied voice is carried with it. "You two, leave us."

"No" Anna's firm tone was all the answer he got.

A slight chuckle echoes through the courtyard. A man of slightly shorter height then Anna emerges from the shadows, covered in a dark cloak with a hood, completely obscuring his face. He walks with only a slight limp. "Forgive me, I had not expected guards, or my letter to arrive so late."

The two men instinctively went for their weapons, but did not draw them. Anna did not move. "You'd best explain why you dragged me out here and at this time, lest I find myself aggravated."

The cowled man bowed low. "Of course! I am sorry for not explaining in the letter, but I would not chance it. There are two things you must know: First, is a mere information exchange."

She crossed her arms. "And second?"

The man seemed to shrink back and took a second to take in his surroundings. Turning back to Anna, he spoke in softer tones. "Second is part of the information exchange."

She motioned for him to go on.

"Tonight, a man dressed as a guard was to walk into your room, and would have killed you." The cowled man let the words sink in.

Anna chuckled lightly. "My, what a fantastic story." She continued with a sardonic tone. "However shall I repay you for saving my life?"

The cowled man stood straight. "Take it as you will, it is not my life that is in danger. I am sorry for disturbing you your Highness."

At the word "danger" the two guards tightened their grip on their weapon. The words failed to illicit any kind of reaction from her. "It is not that I disregard my safety, but I cannot believe the word of every stranger who meets with me in dubious circumstances and warns me of impending doom without a shred of proof to back up their claim."

The cowled man nodded his head, his cloak rustling. "Proof?" The cowled man reaches into his robes and throws something at Anna's feet, backing further away as he does so. "A gift: the contract between the assassin and the employer, who has used the very funds from the building of the University to pay for your own murder."

Anna immediately signaled one of her men to pick up the package. As soon as he handed it over to her, she inspected the contents.

Inside are several letters and a contract, each more incriminating then the last, each signed with the ek Kallipoleos family seal.

Her now somber expression was hard to decipher. "It seems I have erred in my judgment. This information is most appreciated. Now, name your price. For surely, this carries a cost." She lifted the package into plain view at these last words.

The cowled man seems to consider for a moment, before turning back to Anna. "Those who work for House Asteri...they interest me. I wish to know of the what goes on behind the curtains, and, if I am not mistaken, you seem to be in a perfect position to gather such information."

She shook her head. "You are mistaken, the man who leads Asteri hates me, he would sooner see me dead than share his secrets with me."

The cowled man seemed to slump slightly. "Surely you do not need permission. I did not ask the ek Kallipoleos family for what you now hold."

Anna gave a brief sigh, annoyance crept in her voice. "I am no spy and it would not be proper for me to divulge the secrets of the nobles houses of the Empire. I cannot take sides. What I can offer is coin, access to certain places and introductions to certain people. That is the best I can do."

The cowled man happily nods his head, his clothes rustling again. "That is acceptable, and forgive me for demanding to much in return, I let my eagerness get the better of me. But you need not worry about mere coin malady."

Anna tacked away the package in the folds of her cloak. "I assume we are done then?"
The cowled man nodded. "All but to know how to contact you acceptably next time M'lady, and how you may contact me as well."

"A letter will do fine." She looked him over. "As for you, how do you wish to be contacted?."

The cowled man chuckled. "Go the Hippodrome, I will know of it."

Ann frowned. "What if I am required to enter the Kathisma for other reasons?"

The cowled man crossed his arms. "Ask for a man named "Balatro" to serve you."

Anna nodded and turned to leave, taking her tense escort with her.

When Anna returned to her room, she found something out of place. It seemed someone had taken the liberty of going through her papers neatly and precisely, and wedged in between tow of them was a letter.

It read "Dearest Anna, I am sorry for the trouble this has caused you, but I am sure you would never tell a stranger the information I seek. In a few hours, you will find that the letters and contract presented to you will have lost all it's lettering, and the seal itself will melt into nothing. I do hope you had no intention of harming my brother."
-Yours truly, Aleksander ek Kallipoleos, Guardian of the Empire

Anna's features became distorted in anger and outrage. Nevertheless, she remained clear headed; she could retain at least one piece of evidence. Rushing to her desk, she took out her quill, her weapon, and transcribed the letter with calligraphic expertise.

Later that night, Iakovos had nearly ransacked his own room, interrogated a few of the workers and the foreman, and yet he still could not find out where the documents had gone. Sighing to himself, Iakovos wearily headed for his bed. Unlocking and pushing open the door, Iakovos is shocked for a second time that day. The missing papers sit nicely stacked upon his sheets, with a letter on top.

"I thank you for the use of your records Iakovos, they proved to be very useful. I hope we may work together even closer in the near future."
-Yours truly, Aleksander, Guardian of the Empire

[TheFlax]

Constantinople 1101

Anna fidgeted with her dress as she eyed the assembled crowd with apprehension. Her gold silk gown was decorated with pearls and gemstones. Over her shoulders she wore a semi-circular cloak lined in cerise silk, featuring a tablion of pearls and jewels. Her long raven hair and pale round face was revealed to all on this sacred day of matrimony.

Having just cleared the narthex with her attendants, she was now crossing the naos, where everyone was assembled in anticipation for the wedding. She noticed Ioannis Kalameteros waiting for her near the abside and slowed her pace. He looked slightly uncomfortable and nervous in a dark short tunica with embroidered sleeves over his light-colored camisa and cloth leggings. His mantle had a richly embroidered border and tablion and was fastened with a fibula. Ioannis could wait a little longer.

Anna let her gaze take in the majesty of Hagia Sophia which was covered by a central dome of more than a 100 feet across and nearly as high as the sky itself. It seemed rendered weightless by the unbroken arcade of arched windows under it, which helped flood the colorful interior with the light of the Heavens. The dome was carried on pendentives—four concave triangular sections of masonry which solved the problem of setting the circular base of a dome on a rectangular base. It's weight passed through the pendentives to four massive piers at the corners and, between them, the dome seemed to float upon four great arches. At both ends of the great church, the arched openings were extended by half domes carried on smaller semidomed exedras. Thus a hierarchy of dome-headed elements built up to create a vast oblong interior crowned by the main dome.

Finally, she joined him in abside, near the altar, and awaited for the priest to begin the ceremony. Anna was lost in her thoughts for most ceremony, trying to figure out how she could possibly endure sharing a bed with the man beside her. Nevertheless, when the two crowns where brought into view, she snapped back to attention. A discrete smiled made its way on her thin lips as her head was adorned with a gem-encrusted crown complemented by pearl dangles. Ioannis' crown in comparison was much plainer and bore no gems or pearls.

The assembled crowd fell silent as the priest intoned the ritual of matrimony. "O Holy God, You formed man out of the dust of the earth, You fashioned a woman from his rib and joined her to him as a helpmate, for it pleased your great generosity that man should not be alone upon the earth. Now, O Master, stretch forth your hand from your holy dwelling place and join these your servants Anna Komnenos and Ioannis Kalameteros, for You alone join the wife to her husband. Unite them in one mind and in one flesh, granting them fruitfulness and rewarding them with good children. For yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen."

The ceremony lasted a while longer, but Anna's thoughts wandered once more until it was time to for the heart of the wedding ceremony to take place. Most of the guests present at Hagia Sophia took the streets of the capital in a noisy procession led by the newly wed who guided them to their new home, where festivities awaited.

((On to the Wedding party here: https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=105625))