488: At the Winter Court

[GM Craig]

After the meeting with Earl Roderick, Cir Cedwyn finds Ysbail surrounded by a small knot of women, obviously the centre of attention. Sir Cedwyn recognizes the spouses and relatives of a few minor knights in the gathering. Ysbail is the centre of attention, and apparently enjoying herself immensely. You catch her attention and she excuses herself. The women watch her go, some with a little envy, and you catch a few flirtatious stares half-hidden by kerchiefs as the group disperses.

She looks beautiful in her gown. She approaches and bows gracefully, a warm smile on her face. "Husband! You look like a lord who has received good news!"

[Cedwyn]

Cedwyn smiled and said, “Good is a relative term but yes, we sail for Gaul come spring. There will be opportunities for battle and plunder but also to test our mettle against something more than rabble.”

[GM Craig]

"And glory and renown." She smiles, clearly pleased with the prospects. "You will need supplies then. I'll make arrangements when we return."

Haydn comes around a corner and approaches. "My lord. How went the meeting with the Earl?"

[Cedwyn]

Cedwyn offered Haydn a grin, “We go to a real battle lad. Glory and plunder. Gird yourself for we sail come spring and fair weather.”

[GM Craig]

Haydn seems pleased. "Excellent. And this time  I can accompany you, yes? I admit to some disappointment at being left behind this past summer. Had I known you would face a battle, I should have insisted on joining you!"

[Cedwyn]

Cedwyn gave Hayden a hearty clap on the shoulders, “Lad, had I known we faved a battle you would have. Now go...enjoy the feast and festivities. Soon enoigh you too will be a knight and bound to duty at these things.”

He turned back to Ysbail and took her hamds in his, “I trust, my lady wife, that you are enjoying this?”

He gave her a smile.

[GM Craig]

Haydn smiles, understanding he is dismissed, gives you a shallow bow and departs.

Ysbail's response to your question is warm and genuine - this may be the first time you have seen real warmth and affection in her eyes. "Indeed, husband. This has been a great gift." She takes your hands in her. "Thank you." She then leans in and kisses your cheek.

[Cedwyn]

Cedwyn put an arm around her waist and kissed her on the cheek.

“There’s more my lovely lady. I engaged wood carvers and gilders to come to our hall. They will be carving and gilding our rooms as well as the main hall. I also engaged a carver to make a bed suitable for you. It twill be there upon our return. I thought I would surprise you with it.”

“A lady of your beauty deserves a home and bed to match,” Cewyn almost felt his eyes twinkling at springing the surprise.

[GM Craig]

She seems surprised, and very pleased. "My lord! You are very generous! I shall strive to be worthy of your attentions." She kisses you again, a radiant smile on her face.

[Cedwyn]

Cedwyn smiled and kissed her as well.

“This has been a very good year for us. And you worked very hard; so you should reap rewards too. I’m very glad that you are my lady wife.”