Stories Thread

[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."