The Briton and the Dane: Concordia

by Mary Ann Bernal

  “If it is within my power, you know well my answer.”

  “I have written my Uncle Sidonius whose villa is not far from the abbey,” Concordia said softly as she retrieved a sealed parchment from her pouch. “If you would personally deliver this, then I need not trouble the king’s messenger.”

  “Is that all?” Brother Frederic grinned conspiratorially. “Dare I venture a guess?”

  “Do not tease me so! But I do confess you know me well.”

  “Ah, you would have your uncle champion your cause. Am I right?”

  Concordia nodded excitedly.

  “Perhaps I might also be of assistance, if the Bishop grants my request.”

  “I do not understand. Of what do you speak?”

  “It has always been my desire to visit the Holy Land. If I am permitted this pilgrimage, then we might travel together...I would see you safely delivered to Athens before proceeding onto Jerusalem.”

  “The Greek students will return to their homeland soon...we could travel on their ship!”

  “We both must have permission, my child,” Brother Frederic reminded her. “I will await your uncle’s reply before returning...but without your father’s consent...”

  “Leave my father to me,” Concordia interrupted as she embraced the Benedictine monk warmly. “Godspeed.”

  Concordia waited in the early morning heat until Brother Frederic was lost to her view before returning to the court school. She did not want to be instructed this day, she wanted to get a message to her father and beg the queen’s help, she wanted to make preparations for her journey, and she needed to find Emidus who was noticeably absent when the study of mathematics began.

  The morning seemed endless as Concordia sat through her assigned classes, her waning interest quite noticeable by the time the bells called the faithful to Sext. She grabbed her books, running out the door and into the busy street before the final rhythmic chime. She hurried towards Emidus’ quarters while praying silently that he had not taken to his bed.

  “Emidus!” Concordia screamed as she pushed open the door to his chambers and ran into the empty room.

  “My lady?” A serving woman asked.

  “Have you seen my brother?”

  “He was with Prince Edward at the morning meal, but he has yet to return to his quarters. Is something wrong?”

  “It is nothing...I had forgotten about his meeting...I did not mean to disturb you.”

  The serving woman smiled, returning to her chores while Concordia went back to her nearby chambers. She opened the door slowly so as not to startle any servants that might be cleaning her quarters, and breathed a sigh of relief when she found the rooms empty. She poured herself a cup of watered-down wine and sipped her drink slowly as she walked towards the window. She glanced at the Keep, searching for the familiar figure that would never return as she grasped the delicate beads of her treasured necklace between her fingers. She watched the soldiers patrolling the wall-walk and smiled silently when she noticed the embarrassed look of a young maiden when the boy she apparently fancied stole a kiss.

  “I wonder if Thayer is promised,” Concordia mumbled to herself as the enamored couple disappeared from her view, yet sighing wistfully when she heard the knock on the door.

  “Enter!”

  Emidus opened the door slowly, glancing about the room before entering. He noticed his sister’s pensive look while helping himself to some wine. He drained the cup in one swallow, filled it again and emptied it quickly. He sat the goblet down and joined his sister at the window, remaining silent as he gazed upon her face, and waited patiently for her to speak.

  “You were sorely missed this morning...I thought you had taken ill.”

  “I did not mean to upset you...the hour was late when I spoke with Prince Edward...but you are right, I should have told you.”

  “Why were you summoned?”

  “You are speaking to Prince Edward’s personal advisor,” Emidus beamed.

  “Father will be proud as I am proud!” Concordia said excitedly as she embraced her brother. “And Uncle Sidonius...we must send word!”

  “So we shall, but I fear your travel plans have been thwarted.”

  “How so?”

  “I cannot accompany you on your journey.”

  “Not to worry, dear brother...I have since learned that Brother Frederic is planning a pilgrimage to the Holy Land...he will travel with me and see to my safe deliverance! And he will visit with Uncle Sidonius who must surely sanction my journey.”

  “Have you sent word to father?”

  “No, but the letter is written. If you write of your appointment, then the messages can be sent together, and I do believe father’s messenger has yet to return to Wareham.”

  “I will see to it,” Emidus grinned. “Ah, I almost forgot...King Alfred has received word from Brantson...he is personally escorting two captured Norsemen to Winchester...he should arrive within a fortnight. Would you be pleased to see him?”

  “How could you ask such a question? Brantson is my dearest friend...and I must confess that I have written him, seeking his counsel when he next meets with the king.”

  “Intriguing as always, dear sister...would you speak of your lost love or convince him to champion your cause?”

  “You are most wicked!” Concordia laughed. “I would seek his protection on the voyage, if the king agrees to my request.”

  “Watch your words or all will be lost.”

  “I do not understand.”

  “Concordia, I have seen how Brantson looks at you...I do believe you hold his heart, but...”

  “You are mistaken...we do have a special bond...that is true...but we are as brother and sister, that is all.”

  “Nevertheless, tread carefully. Brantson is also like a brother and I would not have you encourage his advances if your heart lies elsewhere.”

  “Emidus! You do me a grave injustice. I would take the veil rather than cause Brantson pain...I cannot bear the thought!”

  “Would you consider becoming his wife? Brantson is a suitable match and father would be very pleased.”

  “Now look what you have done! How can I face Brantson knowing that he pines for me...you have ruined everything!”

  “You are behaving like a coddled child!” Emidus told her firmly. “Surely you know that you cannot remain a maid forever. Why not be wed to a man who truly loves you? You already love him as a friend...the marriage could work.”

  “Leave me...I beg you,” Concordia said through misty eyes. “I have much to think about.”

  “I am sorry you are troubled, but you must know the truth little sister...and you must know that I cannot protect you forever.”

  Chapter Four

  The days passed slowly for Concordia as she anxiously awaited word from her father and dear uncle. She wanted to take Queen Aethelswitha into her confidence, yet she was hesitant because her true intentions might be misconstrued. Did anyone other than her brother suspect that she had been enamored with a mysterious foreigner who had graced the court school one summer past? She believed she had kept her feelings to herself, yet if Emidus had suspected the truth, how many others were knowledgeable but remain silent? What if the queen believed she was seeking to rekindle a friendship because of her obsession over Thayer rather than wishing to expand her knowledge of the known world?

  Concordia was deep in thought as she returned to her quarters, choosing to walk through the king’s private gardens to save time. Butterflies fluttered above a variety of blossomed flowers while bees foraged for nectar amongst the pale yellow petals. Hummingbirds hovered above an ancient Roman fountain, the birds’ soft melodious tunes mingling with the soothing sounds of flowing water that rippled gently over the edge of the multi-tiered structure. Squirrels scurried playfully between the bushes bordering the carefully-tended enclosure while golden fish swam amongst water plants in the freshwater pond. A refreshing breeze cooled the stagnant air as the sun descended slowly upon the horizon, the
bluish hues appearing violet in the darkening sky.

  King Alfred was deep in meditation and prayer, hidden within a cluster of apple trees that provided a shady retreat from the overbearing summer sun. He heard Concordia’s footsteps upon the lush green grass before he caught sight of her walking across the lawn. He smiled slightly at the comely young woman he loved as a sister, waiting until she was closer before calling out her name and beckoning that she join him.

  Concordia waved and hurriedly approached her king, her face glowing when she bowed and kissed his ring. She remained standing in the royal presence, but was pleased when he insisted that she sit beside him. She waited for permission to speak while the king closed his prayer book and placed it atop the stone bench, and was relieved when he told her she could speak freely.

  “I did not mean to disturb you...I would have walked the courtyard had I but known,” Concordia stammered while rubbing her sweating palms.

  King Alfred stifled the laughter that escaped his lips with the back of his hand, feigning a cough to ease her discomfiture. He winked mischievously, taking her hand in his when he spoke.

  “Are you not a member of my household? And were you not presented to me when but a child? Why then are you so unsettled?”

  Concordia’s breathing was erratic as she tried to organize the chaotic thoughts engulfing her mind. She did not know where to begin nor did she know what should be shared. If she said too little, the king might not understand her misgivings, but if she said too much, the king might not sanction her plans.

  “Concordia, do not fear to take me into your confidence. Whatever is troubling you can be remedied, you have my word.”

  “I want to see the country of my ancestors...I want to visit the great cities...and sit upon the stones where Socrates once spoke...and Emperor Constantine’s capital...and not be wed unless I am willing,” Concordia stammered between breaths while beads of sweat trickled down her face, her damp hair clinging to her neck. “Why cannot I determine my own fate as did my mother?”

  “I have been told you are very much your mother’s daughter,” King Alfred said compassionately. “I have prayed before her crypt when at Exeter, and I have founded an abbey in her memory.”

  “My lord, I meant no offense. I...”

  King Alfred raised his hand to silence her, and gently embraced the embarrassed young woman before he spoke.

  “I have had word from your father...he understands the fire that burns in your soul, but he is uneasy about granting your request. The journey you plan would take more than one summer, and pirates and bandits prey on the innocent.”

  Concordia looked pleadingly upon her king through misty eyes, but she refrained from interrupting, hoping beyond hope that she might convince the king to approve her request while silently praying for a miracle.

  “Your father is accompanying Brantson and should arrive within a fortnight. We will discuss your planned journey at length, but we will also decide on a suitable husband.”

  “You have spoken to Emidus then?” Concordia interrupted.

  “I have not, but if you have secrets, I would have you reveal whatever you keep from your father...you must be given proper counsel so you may choose wisely.”

  “My mother chose my father, why cannot I do the same?”

  “You are infatuated with appearances and charm and have not given much thought beyond the nuptial bed. Thayer does not believe in Christ Jesus, and for this very reason, what you seek cannot be.”

  “We were just friends...he behaved appropriately, and we were never alone...and I have received no word since he returned to his homeland.”

  “Yet you wear his necklace,” King Alfred told her as he fingered the beautiful beads that glittered in the fading sunlight.

  Concordia was at a loss for words as she gazed upon her king. If Emidus had not shared his concerns about her Moorish friend, how did the king discover the truth? While it was true that she thought of Thayer occasionally, she was not that besotted! Or was she?

  “My head aches...and what is that smell?” King Alfred asked unexpectedly, but Concordia was too focused on her own plight to notice the king’s blank stare.

  Suddenly King Alfred’s muscles contracted, his limbs jerking uncontrollably as he fell onto the ground, soiling his clothing while his eyelids fluttered and his eyes rolled upward. Frightening sounds escaped through clenched teeth as salvia dripped down the side of his mouth.

  “I need a healer!” Concordia screamed, watching in horror as the king’s limbs stiffened and his breathing became labored. “I need a healer!”

  Two of King Alfred’s personal guards quickly made their presence known, while a third guard sought the healer. The men acted quickly, placing a cloth beneath the king’s head while turning him onto his side.

  “Fetch the queen,” one of the guards shouted, but Concordia was too frightened to obey the command since she feared the king had been poisoned.

  “Are you simple?” The other guard barked. “Fetch the queen.”

  Concordia was trembling as she backed away, sobbing uncontrollably while attempting to do as she was bid, but her knees buckled and she fell to the ground whilst chastising herself for being weak, yet she could not move because her fear was too great. She saw the queen approaching from the corner of her eye just as Emidus lifted her into his arms and carried her out of the gardens. Her brother spoke comforting words as he hurried to their quarters, but Concordia could not stop her tears.

  “Is the king dead?” Concordia sobbed.

  “No, but you must never repeat what you have just witnessed...the king’s enemies must never learn his weakness.”

  “I do not understand.”

  “Those who are privy to the king’s sickness are sworn to secrecy...I was with Prince Edward when his father suffered an episode two summers past, but I fear the scourge no longer sleeps.”

  “Why did you not tell me?” Concordia whispered. “If I had known, I would not have behaved like such a dolt!”

  “I gave my word...would you have me disgraced?”

  Concordia shook her head as her tears subsided, but she took a deep breath before speaking.

  “The king believes I pine for Thayer, and I fear father might also believe this truth. Since I have the king’s word that you did not reveal your suspicions, I must assume my behavior betrayed my thoughts...oh Emidus, I am truly foolish!”

  “You are young still and do not know the world outside the classroom.”

  “We are the same age, what makes you so knowledgeable?”

  “Do you forget I have been trained for battle and know well the evils of this world while you were trained to discuss philosophy amongst other subjects?”

  Concordia stomped her foot and placed her hands on her hips as she glared at her brother who guffawed at her fit of temper. She reached for a pillow that rested upon the nearby cushioned bench and hit her brother repeatedly on his shoulders. Emidus taunted her as he deflected the blows while dancing about the room, but he pulled the pillow from her when he stopped to catch his breath.

  “Enough,” Emidus said as he sat upon the bench. “What would father think?”

  “Father would join us,” Concordia whispered, “and speaking of father, he arrives within a fortnight...with Brantson! The king told me before he fell ill.”

  “Father leaving Wareham and without Elizabeth! I fear your fate then,” Emidus said playfully.

  “You are most wicked! Besides, the king said father is hesitant about sanctioning my journey...he did not say father has denied my request...they will speak at great length...so I am hopeful.”

  “And Brantson?”

  “Brantson is my dearest friend, that is all.”

  “I fear that may not be all,” Emidus told her knowingly. “And you will not be given a choice.”

  Chapter Five

  Word spread quickly throughout the king’s capital that the esteemed warrior, Brantson, had successfully thwarted the latest heathen threat to Britannia�
��s shores, and that he was personally escorting two prisoners to Winchester for judgment. While King Alfred was noted for his benevolence, mercy had its limits, and the inhabitants of the city speculated on the fate of the captured Norsemen. Would the men be ransomed or be held hostage to deter further assaults upon the land as had been done in the past, or would they suffer the fate of their fellow countrymen who were ultimately executed after having been defeated at sea one summer past?

  It was also rumored that Lord Stephen of Wareham was accompanying Brantson, and the purpose of the unexpected visit, if proven true, was discussed heatedly in the alehouses with wagers placed goodheartedly as the days passed.

  Concordia paid no heed to the gossipmongers as she walked the busy streets that led to her quarters. She had grown weary of the daily instruction and was bored with the subjects being taught. She was also tired of the taunts because of her gender, but she gloated unashamedly when her answers were proven correct before the young men in her class were admonished for not learning the assigned lessons. While she missed Emidus’ presence in the classroom, she was happy that he had found favor with Prince Edward. Her brother was not only a proven warrior and a brilliant strategist, he was also knowledgeable of the law and would serve the future king well.

  Her thoughts were muddled when she reached the Keep. She would keep her vigil, awaiting her father’s arrival, as her father had kept his vigil when she and her brother had been lost so many years past. Concordia walked slowly up the stairs since she was determined not to be out of breath by the time she reached the top. She fingered the beaded necklace she always wore, but her thoughts quickly turned to Brantson and her brother’s unwanted counsel.

  The sun was midway in the sky as Concordia walked across the deserted tower towards the eastern wall where she watched the travelers on the main road approaching the fortified city. Her father’s arrival was imminent, if not this day, then surely the next, and she wanted to welcome him just as he had welcomed her whenever she returned from visiting Uncle Sidonius.