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A Mother's Trials (Tesora & Greeneyed23)

Elizabeth didn't fall asleep as she curled into bed with her children. Instead her mind raced. It was a dangerous world they were in. One toe out of line and she might well be charged with treason. And then what would happen? Her children would be left unprotected. The King could very well force her into his bed if he wanted and there was nothing she could do about it. Her only recourse was marriage but she would need the King's permission before she married anyone and there was no lord she truly desired to have a husband. No one would give her the same treatment as Roland had, or treat her as their equal. She was only a woman and it was the curse of her sex that she was in this situation. Closing her eyes, she forced the thoughts from her mind and then tried to get some sleep.

It was a hard night's sleep and when she woke the next morning, she dressed herself up proper and helped Catherine dress as well in one of her pretty frocks.

"My head hurts," her daughter complained and Elizabeth smirked.

"It's because you drank wine. You know better. A wee thing like you...you should of been drinking cider...No more wine my darling," she said simply before finishing the lacing on her daughter's gown and then finishing getting dressed herself. She pushed the trunk aside and asked for some breakfast before enjoying the small amount of food they were given to eat. Catherine ate with relish and drank her cider without incident and Elizabeth smiled at both children.

"Would you two like to go to the gardens. If not we could always go to the market. Londontown has one of the best markets in the whole of England..."
 
Nathan grinned at his pained sister. "Told you not to Cath."

At their mother's offer both children looked at each other then as one said, "The Markets!" The markets of London were justifiably famous both for the rare and odd items, and the immense selection, but also the various performers that entertained shoppers, along with the many secrets and other attractions the market held.

Nathan had actually dressed himself rather nicely, trying to make his mother happy both so she would let him do more of what he wanted but also to protect himself from the King and his servants.

A knock came at the door. Nathan rushed to let the knocker in. it was Roland's own cousin Brian. Married for many years with many children and incredibly happy he rarely came to court. "Wee ones!"

"Uncle Brian!!!" he scooped up his niece and nephew hugging them so tight they squealed and smiled at Elizabeth. "Hello cousin. I heard you were here. I thought I might offer my services as an escort?"

His eyes flashed letting her know he was well aware of her situation and had come to help her and the children as he had always felt his duty since the death of his cousin, Brian being the only other (of age) male Eckert still alive.
 
Elizabeth smiled at her cousin-in-law and walked toward him, giving him a hug once he had set down her children and then drew back. "It does me good to see you...." she smiled at him and then looked at her children. "I was planning to take them to the market. I would be very grateful for your escort. Let me grab my cloak. Children but on your cloaks and gloves. It's a bit brisk outside," she said and then gave Brian a smile before leading her two out the door and took Catherine's hand as they all made their way out into the cool morning air. She looked to her husband's cousin and smiled.

"How are Jane, your little angels? Not giving you to much trouble I pray?" she asked with a soft laugh, glad to see a friendly face in this pit of snakes. Court was not a place she enjoyed at all and she could certainly tell from Brian's expression that he knew well what was going on. "I do hope you've come to tell me to stick to my morals and not marry at all," she teased him slightly, giving a smile as they walked toward the gates, herself completely aware of the guards that seemed to come behind them and follow her to ensure she wasn't trying to escape.
 
" 'orrible. Absolutely 'orrible. Can't stand them." He smiled to show his humor. her pulled his own cloak a bit tighter about himself as the grey sky finally broken and began to snow. "Jane is actually pregnant again. i think she wants a full twenty." They already had eleven children.

"Of course i am. I still can't believe anyone or anything would stop Roland from coming home to you. he's always been so mad about you."

Many often mocked Brian because he refused to believe that Roland and many of the other Crusaders were indeed dead, and his many children. He ignored them all with good grace. A fine warrior in his own right but not the talent his cousin was, he served as the Knight of the Realm in Suffolk guarding the shoreline and the eastern pathways to London. He rarely saw his cousin even before the Crusade and now just as rarely saw Elizabeth, usually busy with his own duties. But like all notable nobles he had been called to court and like them he had a feeling that William would once again not let any of them go as he seemed to be preparing for another war.

Nathan had dragged Catherine to a blacksmith's stall to watch as the smith crafted a number of intricate metal puzzles and toys. after some while he looked at his mother. "mother could we...?" he gestured at a large pouch that was filled with the metal puzzles but he awaited her affirmation, though Brian whispered. "Bought a whole chest full for my brats. they love the things. Keeps them quiet and are almost unbreakable." He knew better than to say entirely unbreakable due to Nathan's prodigious abilities toward destruction.
 
"Pregnant again? My God. You two certainly have a houseful," she laughed, imagining the home where Jane and his brood were. He wasn't a very rich man but he was content with his children and his wife and she'd met Jane a time or two, normally in various stages of pregnancy. Many women couldn't handle birthing so many children but Jane was a strong soul and all of her wee ones had been born hearty and hale. As she followed after her children to the blacksmith's stall, she looked at Brian and laughed before turning to her own wee ones. With a nod, she looked to the blacksmith. "How much would it be for that large pouch there Master Smith?" she asked and the man looked at her, wiping his sweaty brow with a beefy forearm before answering.

"A half-crown milady. Comes with three whole puzzles fashioned in different shapes. A horse is one...crown another...and a castle tower. Near a hundred pieces for each and they'll be separated accordingly. wee ones always do love putting them together..." he chuckled good naturedly and she smiled, paying him in kind before taking the pouch. It was lightweight enough and she tied it to her belt before fixing her gloves. "Thank you," she said to the man before looking to her children, taking their hands.

"Oh mother...can I have a porcelain doll. Lady Anne says they come all the way from a place called India...but really it's in another far away land called China...oh can I mother please...?" Catherine begged and Elizabeth smirked.

"We'll see. But porcelain I'm told is rather a breakable thing...one drop and the doll would be gone. Are you not happy with the dolls I sew for you?" she asked and watched her daughter bite her lip before nodding.

"I suppose you're right...would you make me a new one? With button eyes?" she asked once again renewed with hope and Elizabeth nodded before leading them to a sweets stall and getting them each a pastry before offering one to Brian.

"How long are you to be at court cousin?" she asked of the man beside her, walking through the stalls as they ate their snack. Knowing she would be here for as long as the king saw to it.
 
"Ahh very good Master smith but also the small pouch."

"Sir?"

"The little thinking puzzles."

"Oh yes sir. Another half crown sir. Fifty of them in there."

Brian flipped him the payment and the man smiled. "thank you sir." While Brian lifted the pouch and handed it to Nathan though he took one puzzle out for Elizabeth to see. It was not a traditional puzzle but a trio of metal shapes interlocked. "The goal is to seperate them without breaking or bending them. Quite fun. And though the tinkling is a bit loud it is much better than shouting or breaking things."

He separated the shapes then put them back together and gave it to Nathan who immediately began to try to replicate his 'uncle's deed.

Brian ate the whole of his pastry before he answered. "I am not sure. It is rumored that until the King makes a decision concerning his...intentions none of our to leave. and you know how often he gets distracted."

He spied a fabric shop with a whole row of gorgeous buttons and pointing this out to Catherine she grabbed Nathan's hand and dragged him off ignoring his cries as he was still trying to solve the puzzle.

"You must be very wary my dear. You have no doubt heard of William's vice but...I can assure you they are far worse than the rumors. Sodomy, bigamy, pederasty, even bestiality, and so much more are nothing to him. He's begun experimenting with sexual activities of all sorts... keep Catherine well away from him."

He knew she knew to be careful but the force of his gaze and the sharpness of his voice made his fear quite clear. "And i would go armed everywhere from now on if you do not wish to become a part of his madness. And do not think yourself safe even when he is sober and calm. he had taken many of his conquests at a whim against the very walls of the palace. It is said he even deflowered a young maiden, barely older than Catherine, before the eyes of her own parents, right in the throneroom. The child was raped this I know,and it was by William. The location i am not certain of. He had her parents murdered so he could keep her until she stopped fighting him."

He gripped her arm somewhat fiercely. "Keep your children close cousin. i will do all i can to protect you but i am but a lowly knight. Perhaps the church can aid you..." he shook his head feeling so weak and inadequate but before Elizabeth could make a reply Catherine called out about some especially fine fabric and buttons that she wished her next doll to be made from.

Nathan stood behind his sister, blocking her from all around her, but his hands and eyes were busy with the puzzle. This made Brian's fear break as he smiled. "if nothing else they will give that young man some peace."
 
As Brian fully explained what sort of sexual adventures and vulgarities the king was enjoying, she nearly blanched and then stiffened. The church might indeed help her. If she sought sanctuary then even William himself would hardly try to get himself excommunicated. The Pope and all of his allies were far to much of an influence on the man and he'd sell all he had to get an indulgence into Heaven. She looked at Brian and then nodded before smiling at her children. In the church, she would be safe. So would her children and so would her lands. By claiming sanctuary in a convent she would hardly be free but she could be with her children without fear of rape and she was sure a well written message to the Pope would get her the asylum she and her children desperately needed. Catherine was far to young and sweet to be given to the perverse bastard who ruled them.

She slipped over to the stall, allowing Catherine to choose the buttons and fabrics she desired for her new doll. Once that was done, she glanced to her dear son and smiled. "Is there anything else you'd like Nathan...before we return to the castle?" she asked. "I also want to stop by Westminister's Abbey so that I might take confession...you two of course will need to come along," she said gently to them and smiled at Brian before glancing at the guards a respectable distance away but still watching. Weaponry was of course, not allowed in a church and the Abbey would be a perfect place. She would claim sanctuary for her children and return to the castle without fear of their lives. Something that would have to be explained inside church walls. This way, she could handle William without his threatening the livlihood of Nathan nor her little Catherine.
 
He shook his head not even looking up from his puzzle. he was so engrossed he had even lost his angry face, just too busy concentrating. He just nodded to his mother's explanation and moved to follow her.

Brian gently touched her arm guiding her to some very nice fabrics. "i will get your things and bring them by the Abbey. The bishop is there now so he can offer you sanctuary without speaking to the Pope. You had best hurry. But be careful. William will be very angry when you take sanctuary. Take a bit so i can have your things there." he kissed her cheek then said goodbye to the children heading back to the palace.

Natahn looked up to say goodbye as well and flinched then grabbed his mother's hand. "Mom!" he pointed at a very impressive puppet show going on and dragged her over along with his sister who was just as interested as the subject was the success of William the Conqueror.
 
She glanced at her cousin and nodded. He could hardly be punished in this. "Just a couple of gowns for me, and the children's clothes...I can live without everything else..." she told him, knowing he could smuggle those out without much in the way of concern, especially since her own clothes were not the great gowns of court but simple thin country ones that could easily fit in a sack. And the children had brought a few outfits apiece and would be easily stuffed as well. As for important things, she had her money in hand and she had her wedding ring. Everything else could be replaced in time. And her estate would be safe. Thank God for Brian's quick-wittedness.

As Nathan led her to a puppet show, she smiled and nodded, watching the puppet show with her children, laughing along to the story and feeling an ever present fear up her back. Once at the church, her life and her property would be under protection of the church, as would her children. Safe and sound until William finally gave up, the Pope threatened him with excommunication, or he died. After the puppet show, she bought a new pack of needles, fabric for needlework and then material to stuff little Catherine's new doll before heading toward Westminister's Abbey. It had been an hour. Long enough for Brian to gather what was to be needed and at the abbey and without any sort of suspicion. She stepped onto the steps of the abbey, fearing the worst with every step but not daring to look behind her or act suspicious. It wasn't until she was safe in the walls of the abbey with the door shut that her heart felt lifted and then she led her children down the aisle to the confessional before turning to her children. "Sit on the pews my love. Be quiet. I'll be back in a moment," she promised. The bishop, a portly man with a ruddy face was entering the sanctuary when he smiled and inclined his head.

"My Lady," he greeted merrily.

"Bishop..." she greeted back and then glanced back at the children before looking to him once more. "I fear Bishop I come to you in dire need of sanctuary for myself and my children. The King has me held prisoner because I will not lie with him or accept his proposal of marriage. He has...he has threatened the welfare of my daughter's virtue and my own and I fear for the safety of my children as much as myself. My husband, he...he is pronounced dead after the battle of Bethlehem but my husband died fighting for the very protection of our church and the Holy Lands and I would ask that his memory also play part in your decision. I...also...have money to pay for our keeping..." she said, reaching for the pouch at her waist.

"Fear not my child. Your cousin Lord Bryan has already told me of the trials that befall you and you and your children are welcome in this abbey as long as you have need of the Lord's protection," he told her and offered his ring. She gave a sigh of relief before kneeling and kissing his ring.

"Thank you Bishop," she whispered relieved and the man nodded. "I will have one of our Brother's escort you and your children to the rooms we can offer you. They are not of great beauty but they will serve you well. I shall see you at dinner then, milady..." he said and then motioned to an older looking Priest who willingly obliged.

"Darlings, come with me..."

Catherine gave her mother a confused look but got up anyway, walking with them. "What are we doing mother?" she asked, taking her hand.

"Staying here for a little while my dove...it's safe here. I don't want you hurt," she said simply then brushed her hair back from her face before leading both down into the living quarters of the priests and those seeking sanctuary. The room given was small but functional with a bed and archway to another bedchamber, basin to wash with and a cross upon the wall in which to pray by. Their clothes were already placed and she thanked God and Brian. Daring to not think of the wrath that would be William. But he wouldn't want to be excommunicated and Brian would be safe from torture or death and hopefully unsuspected considering neither of them had seen each other in years before this morning.
 
Brian had also gone a step further. He had utterly ignored her attempts to protect him by bringing all of their things and leaving a note.

Nathan spotted it first and after reading it handed it to his mother. "He does not deserve to touch even your smallest possession. And I could not let him destroy the family crest." Nathan's own small cases did indeed hold the family crest, which for a reason only he knew and refused to share, Nathan guarded jealously.

The boy unpacked his things into the small alcove set aside for him then sat on the bed with his pouch, once again attacking his puzzle while the larger pouch sat at his feet waiting to be opened and used.

A gentle hand touched Elizabeth's arm and a young but very pretty nun curtsied to her. "Milady the bishop has asked me to serve as your guide while you stay here. I am Sister Constance. If you have any need of me i sleep just there." She pointed at a small room just across the hall from their own.

"Also remember you cannot leave the abbey at any time else sanctuary will be broken. We will supply you with food and water. if you have need of anything please let me know and I will collect it for you. if you do have visitors then you must see them in the atrium and they cannot touch you. Not even a hug milady. We will do all we can to make you comfortable and should it you may purchase another bed and have it brought in. i can handle the transaction if you want. The space is small but should serve. one other thing is that no matter who comes and no matter what they say unless you are accompanied by a priest you are to meet with no one. we have had some trouble with people disregarding the sanctity of the church."

It was an infamous tale that William had tricked one of his enemies into leaving sanctuary and had been so eager had actually had him killed at the very doors of this building. Constance smiled at Catherine and Nathan. "We must do everything we can to protect such precious treasures milady. you were wise to come. I-"

What could only be the crash of a heavy door off the wall was followed by a roar. "ELIZABETH!!!" William's voice was unmistakeable.

Nathan leapt his feet the puzzle falling to the floor as she rushed tot he door but Constance caught him with a oddly strong hand on his chest. "Nay young Lord. Here God protects you and your family." he scowled up at her then seeing something in her eyes and face eh slowly nodded stepping back.

Constance looked up at Elizabeth while William continued to roar her name. "Milady you must stay here. do not leave this room. You are safe in these halls." She made the sign of the cross over the doorway then turned on her heel her habit rising a bit as she walked away.

"ELIZABETH!! COME OUT YOU COWARDLY CUNT!! HOW DARE YOU!!!? IF YOU WANT THOSE CHILDREN TO EVER SEE THEIR HOME AGAIN YOU WILL COME OUT NOW!!!"

Catherine's face was pale as snow as she listened and Nathan seeing his sister gently guided her to the bed and made her sit then sat beside her hugging her. "it'll be ok Cath."

"YOU FUCKING BITCH!! GET OUT HERE!!!! THAT IS A GODDAMNED ROYAL COMMAND!! IF YOU-"

"THAT IS ENOUGH!!"

Constance's voice cracked across the king's like a whipsnap and silence held for the longest moment then William spoke again the sound still carrying despite his lowered voice. "Do not test me woman. i am the King of England and-"

"Have no authority here! This is a house of God! You have already defiled it with your actions and your filthy tongue. You will no longer."

He laughed. "What are you going to expel me...sister?"

Even her voice held the sly smile she gave the king. "Nay Your Grace. But if you try to break sanctuary you will have to kill me. Murder me. In a church. His Holiness would excommunicate you before the end of the week. And if you continue to debase this Holy House he might just. You did blaspheme."

William did not speak for a long moment. Finally he spoke very softly. "Clever little bitch aren't you?"

Constance's voice still held a sly smile. "I am not the little girls you so enjoy Your Grace. You may have murdered my earthly parents for my hand but by the Grace of my Heavenly Father I am safe, sane and whole here within His House. And i have never forgotten what you did. And I shall never allow you to do it anyone under the protection of the Church. Now begone from this Holy Place. You are not fit to enter it."

William did not speak. He glared the girl. for the life of him he could not remember her. His many sins were far too numerous for him to select a single one. He finally scoffed and turned away. As Constance closed the doors the Bishop came to her.

"Sister...that was a very brave but dangerous thing to do."

"Nay Father. it is but my command from the Almighty to protect those in my charge. From all who would seek to harm them. The only danger to me is not performing that command."

The Bishop chuckled. "Still fiery and strong as ever Constance. I do hope you survive to become the wonderful Mother Superior I believe you will be. Go and look after your charges. Dinner will be served at dusk after mass."

There was the sound of her kissing his ring then Constance returned to the small family smiling. her face was a bit red but her eyes were shining and s stray lock of burning red hair and slipped from her wimple onto her forehead. "Forgive the upset milady. it will not happen again." She smiled at Catherine and Nathan. "Children perhaps you would like to bring your toys to the courtyard?"

Nathan started to argue but she just smiled. "Come along young Lord. Surely you do not want to miss the snow?" She scooped up Catherine again exhibiting much more strength than her rather small body seemed to hold. Nathan blinked and grabbed his fallen puzzle and both pouches and followed the young nun out to the courtyard.

Another elderly priest moved to Elizabeth's side after this small moment and smiled. "Milady When you have a moment the bishop would like to speak to you. He preferred before the mass is said and alone. Would you be prepared now?"

The Bishop stood in his office looking out into the courtyard watching the snow then to his surprise saw the two small children playing with Constance and some of the other Sisters and a few young priest, dancing in the snow and putting together what seemed to be a rather elaborate castle. He chuckled watching them knowing that the children would soon forget or at least move past the fright earlier.

On his desk was a letter from His Holiness, actually regarding Elizabeth. it warned the bishop not to reveal this to her or anyone else but there had been unconfirmed reports that Roland was actually alive. The Bishop felt it was his duty now not to merely guard Elizabeth from William but also if he could rejoin her with her rightful husband. He would hopefully soon be able to tell her if the man was indeed alive.

For now what he really needed to know and discuss with her was how long she intended to stay and hopefully convince of her to stay until he had full knowledge of the situation with Roland. He also was going to offer to help educate her children while they stayed. it was the decision of every person in sanctuary and though most accepted he still had to formally ask.
 
Hearing William's voice sent chills through her. He threatened her home but he couldn't touch it. Those lands and people were under protection of the church for so long as she was here and well he knew it. He might not be a holy man but excommunication would only be his downfall. She was safe, her people were safe and above all, her children were safe. As her children went into the courtyard she meant to follow them with Sister Constance but was stopped by a Priest. At his question, she nodded and then made her way upstairs to the Bishop's office. She entered and curtseyed, walking to him and as a sign of respect kissed his ring and then slowly moved to stand across from him, her eyes catching sight outside the window of her wee ones playing about in the snow. She smirked a bit at their play and then slowly looked back to the Bishop.

"You wished to see me Your Grace?" she asked, slowly smoothing her skirts as she settled down across from him, brushing a stray strand of hair back from her face. "I...I do wish to apologize for the king's behavior. It is my fault that he came in such a rage but when my cousin suggested coming here for Sanctuary, I knew well it was the only way to keep my daughter safe...and my son. He's a lad with much anger and so easy to temper...when he thinks Catherine is in trouble or myself for that matter. I do thank you, for offering sanctuary to me and to my children and I promise to uphold your rules. I've no desire to violate the rules of sanctuary....this is my only chance in protecting myself or Catherine..."

She swallowed hard and lowered her head, still feeling far to afraid. After all, she could be here for quite a while yet. William would not give her up so easily but she knew that she was safe in these walls of stone and her children. The very idea of William getting his hands on her sweet innocent child made her sick to her stomach. "What is it you desire to speak to me about?" she asked the man gently.
 
The Bishop chuckled. "Nathan, like so many good young men is simply seeking his way my dear. Perhaps his time here will serve to help him. It was actually your sweet children I wished to speak of."

"You are all welcome here for as long as you wish. i will urge you to stay here at least until the spring. By then perhaps the King will have found someone else that interests him. But again about the small ones. i am offering you our aid in their education. i am certain they have learned much from you Elizabeth, i remember your talents from my visits to your parish, but it is our duty to offer."

"As to the sanctuary i have no doubt you will...behave." he smiled at the thought. "You're a smart woman and I did witness William's...visit. I am certain there will be no trouble. It seems your very sweet children are quite popular here. i simply wish to help protect them. Also i wanted to offer you access to some our furniture here. The Lord has blessed us with the kindness of others and we received a large supply of beds and other items. I thought we could offer your son his own bed? And perhaps Miss Catherine if you want? Small but comfortable. just a thought."

He smiled. "Though likely to be unpleasant from without, I sincerely hope and pray that your stay here will as comfortable and restful as possible. We do have a rather extensive library." he grinned. "i will admit to a bit of pride," he held up his hand his thumb and forefinger just barely apart. "When i say that it is quite diverse and well supplied."

He was a well known scholar and was known for his powerful messages in addition to his jolly laugh and his skills with his parishmembers.

"So my dear Elizabeth is there anything I can offer you? perhaps a good word with our Heavenly Father?" he winked at her. He had been praying for her since the moment he found out William was interested and he had yet to stop. A holy and righteous man he took his faith seriously.
 
"Your offer is certainly most generous Your Excellency." Elizabeth smiled, looking relieved before nodding. "I have no issue living without and I'm sure Catherine and Nathan will find contentment here until the spring. And another bed will be fine but the apartment you gave me will large enough for us three. "As to a good word, I do think I pray enough for both of us Bishop when it comes to my soul. The library certainly sounds like a wonderful thing and I should be glad to take my time up there while the children are at their studies. Truth be told, my brother Lord George of Berkshire was wanting to take Nathan on. He is old enough to foster but my son is as head strong as my husband was. It's a grief to know Roland won't ever get to see the lad..."

Swallowing back the lump in her throat, she wiped her eyes. "Words cannot express my gratitude Bishop. When I...I heard the stories of what William had done...and how he was using Catherine to keep me close, I knew I had to do something to get away from him and not risk my son's inheritance or treason. My cousin by marriage, Lord Brian spoke of the church and well, I knew it was the only safe place I had..." She wiped her eyes again before looking at him. "I know our good Lord never puts more upon our shoulders than we can bear but I do fear Bishop, I am near my limit..." She said with a choked sort of laugh before taking out her handkerchief and wiping her eyes once more.
 
The Bishop moved to her side and gently gripped her shoulder. "Know this then my child. the Good Lord has brought you here in his love to guard you and give you peace enough to replenish yourself."

He chuckled. "Now what I would like you to do, this is just my personal wish, is to provide me some help."

He reached over to his desk and lifted up a small ledger and handed it to her. He pointed at a list of donations. "If you could help me sort through all of these? Im afraid I am much behind. All these travels." he sighed shaking his head.

"This is just a favor to me but I would be most appreciative." He smiled letting her know she was welcome to say no if she just wished to rest.
 
"I should be glad to help you where I can Bishop, if only to keep my mind busy..." She gave a smile and took the ledger in question, setting it in her lap. "I should have this balanced for you by the morning if you would like and have your accounts in order. I've been doing it so long at Salisbury that it doesn't take me long to ensure all is right and well...Thank you again Your Excellency. I'm a very grateful woman...and I'm sure that my children are as well," she said softly before slowly rising. "We shall stay until the spring. It wouldn't do us much good to travel in this snow regardless and well...there is His Majesty's wounded pride..." She took in a shuddering breath and then clutched the ledger a little tighter.

With a curtsey, she left the bishop's office and then settled herself in her new chamber, lighting a fire in the small heart before setting herself to task, knowing she would probably have the accounts balanced before the time came for supper. And with the children enjoying their time outside it was easy to concentrate.
 
He laughed. "I hope you are right but our storage rooms are rather large. I will need everything there inventoried as well. This is also an-" As if called a priest came in with a large bag of coin and another with a stack of books. They set them on the Bishop's desk. "More donations Your Excellence."

The Bishop sighed then smiled. "Blessings be to God. Lady Elizabeth is going to assist us with our donations from now on. Report them all to her. And when she is ready take her to the storage chambers. And we need to be careful with our accounting so she will be handling that as well. There are pieces and items that no one has any clue about and while I am grateful I would like to give my thanks to the giver for their kindness."

Both priests nodded then nodded to the Lady, giving her the small scraps with the titles of the books and the donator, who had also given them the two hundred crowns of gold. The donator, one Lady Habitha, surprised the Bishop. "Is she well?"

"I am afraid not Excellence."

The Bishop nodded biting his lip then pointed at the elder. "If I am not back in time you will perform the mass brother. Lady Elizabeth take care and try to enjoy yourself if you can. Here you will have peace."

He touched her shoulder then gathered his coat and pulled it on and left. One of the priests walked with Elizabeth to her rooms also giving her other donation documents and explaining that the Abbey actually had more than a dozen rooms filled with donations of every sort. "We will come collect you for dinner milady. You do not have to attend mass save on the Sabbath here. This one is more for the priests and sisters anyway."

"So when you are ready let me know and we can go begin looking through the storage rooms."
 
Well her mind would certainly be occupied. And with the children otherwise engaged, it presented the perfect opportunity to get started. The paperwork was quite the mess. Whoever had been keeping accounts had nog done such a good job and she found herself making all new notes. The worst part was organizing money by it's amount. Half crowns, pounds, shillings, pence, pieces of eight and coins of a more foreign nature to be weighed their value.

Aside from money there was also jewelry to be valued and that would require more expertise than Elizabeth had so far as keeping records. Therefore, she would be leaving the jewelry for another day. Though she had time aplenty to organize the funds by donor and then by amounts per coin. Tedious as it was, it kept Elizabeth from thinking on the terrible fury William would try to deal her.

So far deep in her task, she had not heard the knock until a wizened old man in Priestly robes entered. "Milady. Dinner is being served in the hall if you would kindly join us," he said, his voice as old as his features. Smiling and nodding, she followed him to the large dining room, the higher ranking priests, nuns and of course the Bishop sat at the dais though she did see her children sitting by Sister Constance and a vacant spot by the Bishop's left. The priest before her led her to that particular seat and she gave her thanks before settling down. The food was simple fair. Roasted fish, parsnips that had been boiled and sweet peas. Not that she minded the simple ness of the meal, especially given that lent would soon be upon them and they would have yo forgo so many things.

"After blessing the food, she gave the a Bishop a smirk. "You have set quite a task for me Bishop. I doubt I will be finished before a week. Of course, with indulgences and donations coming in daily, I fear I may never catch up," she smiled.
 
He smiled. "Would that it were true my child. The work of God requires much. If you have an initial accounting I would have need of a rather large amount. The orphanages and healers in the area are in need of several items."

He waited until everyone had been seated then raised his hands before his chest. First he crossed himself then kissed his crucifix before clasping his hands and spoke softly. "Dear heavenly father, blessing be upon you this day for your goodness and kindness. We thank you for this time together and this excellent meal. We thank you for the arrival of new friends. We also pray for the soul of the departed and for the family suffering the loss. May the soul enter safely into Paradise and may their family know peace in your love and Protection. We thank you Oh Lord for all of this and our lot. Guard us and keep us in the light of your countenance. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen."

He crossed himself again as did the others then as one they set to their meal.

Nathan had watched the Bishop carefully. He didn't think much of holy men but this man, though rather fat, seemed to possess a powerful aura of both dignity yet kindness. Still he wasn't entirely sure of this man...yet.
 
She nodded. "I do. An hour spent and a thousand coins of various denominations counted. I'm not sure of how much you may require Bishop," she said gently as the meal was begun and a small murmur began amongst those present within the hall. She ate slowly, enjoying the taste, seeing Catherine enjoying her food and Nathan looking quite pensive as usual. If only there was a way to wipe that look off his face and make him feel better. Make him feel more joy. She gave him a smile and wink of reassurance and then turned her attention back to the Bishop as she ate her meal, eating only until she was full and wiping her mouth free of any residue, It was not decadent like meals at the palace but it was filling and she was grateful to have it at all.

She still felt overwhelmingly grateful to the Bishop and just hoped the next few months passed without incident.
 
"That should do for beginnings."

The Bishop waited until everyone had finished eating then stood and intoned a blessing before sending them all off to bed.

Nathan was rather surprised to find another bed in their room but when Catherine balked at the idea he had shrugged and taken the new bed for himself, changing quickly then after his rather cursory prayers slid into bed and resumed his attempt to solve his puzzle.


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

William was glaring out one of his many windows at the Abbey his eyes blazing with rage.

"Your Grace to break sanctuary is tantamount to abdicating."

"Fuck you! Their just a buncha sissies in dresses!!"

"Sire...the Church wields much power and popularity. You cannot offend the people."

"Or what?!"

"Or they will revolt and slaughter us all."

William whirled on his adviser, his regent Lord Whitely, and though he tried, he could not contain his rage and with a long sigh he flopped into a chair.

"So? What do we do?"

"Wait....and find someone else-"

"No! I will have Elizabeth!"

"But why?"

William did not answer. He did not have areal answer. Even he was not fully aware that in reality he wanted Elizabeth solely because he had been told he could not have her.

Whitely sighed. "Then again...you'll have to wait Your Grace. You cannot break sanctuary and they cannot be expelled once it is granted."

William scowled considering idly bouncing an old dagger on the table beside him glaring at the window.
 
Elizabeth gave the beginnings of her book keeping to the bishop before retiring to her newfound bedchamber. She dressed for bed and then went to check on the children, seeing Nathan still awake while her daughter was already sleeping and curled up with her doll. She kissed her little girl's cheek before walking to Nathan, kissing his forehead and settling on his bed. "I know you are perhaps not very pleased with the situation. You won't be able to leave the church courtyard but we have to stay here. Your Uncle Brian told me awful. things. I just want you safe and your sister...when spring comes, we should be able to leave. I do hope so anyway."

With a sigh, she leaned down and kissed his forehead before tucking him in. "Goodnight darling..." she whispered then put another log in the hearth. Back in her small chamber she drew out her rosary giving a sigh as she knelt and prayed for forgiveness and for her gratefulness at being granted sanctuary. And then she prayed that all would be well come the spring.

After her prayers she slowly crawled into bed and then settled onto the mattress and fell into a fitful sleep.

-----

After nearly a month, she was finished. Even with the massive amounts of donations coming in daily she had finally managed to balance the books and would be able to spend a couple of hours each day with the newer donations and not having to slave away to finish it. Humming to herself, she pushed the chair up to her workdesk before making her way out and to the room where her children were receiving a rather grand education. In her time here with the little ones,s he had found a sense of contentment and solitude she hadn't felt in years. She would work away in the treasury of the abbey while her children spent their time reading and studying by way of Sister Constance and her nights were spent reading whatever book she happened to pick up from the library and then prayers before bed. There had been no more attempts of William trying to have her and Jessica had written that all was well on her land with the steward and captain helping to keep things orderly.

She had also heard from Brian who's darling wife had birthed a new son and had written her congratulations and thanks to him. Gathering her skirts, she made her way to her son and daughter's classroom, slowly peaking into the archway to see them both practicing their penmanship though Nathan was looking rather disgruntled at the task. She smiled. Catherine was truly thriving here, learning well all the things that Elizabeth could not teach her. An education as good as any man's if Constance and the others had anything to say about it.
 
Nathan had tried but even he could not be angry around these people. they were too smart and far too much fun. he had thought priests and nuns were boring but they were often just as clever and mischievous as he, and they also let him release his responsibility over his sister, at least temporarily. He also loved learning. He still worked at his puzzles, though he had finally beaten about a third of the bag, while the other pouch's contents were on tables like pieces of art. He also had taken after his mother getting a book for himself which he would read while his fingers worked the puzzles. He was often found in hidden alcoves reading as he worked them, quiet and happy.

A large part of it was that his mother was actually allowed some peace, both from himself, and the others who had always pestered her, as only the Bishop pestered his mother now and that was usually to question about her book keeping her skills quickly have won the Bishop over who kept teasing he intended to hire the good Lady Elizabeth as God's Accountant.

Nathan had also made peace with the old man. This had happened one day in the library when the boy had been unsure what to read and instead of the Bible or something that would have been just as boring to the young man, the Bishop had selected a compendium of the Arabian Nights Tales which the boy had adored. The Bishop had then set aside a number of adventure books and tales for the boy and had even read him the tales of their own land in Latin, thus forming a strong bond between the two. It was the Bishop who had gotten the boy to talk about his anger at his father and had shown him the reports on the battles where Nathan learned his father was not only a great warrior but also a hero who rescued and protected innocent life. Nathan still resented much about his dad but he was coming to accept the truth about him.

Constance absolutely adored the two children and was always about to answer their questions and help with them. Nathan had blushed once when Catherine teased him about having a crush on the lovely redhead, who it turned out was actually only fifteen. Constance actually did not notice the boy's attentions but Nathan was also smart enough , and still young enough, that he did not pine for her or fawn after her, though his sister was guilty of such things quite often, especially of the handsome men who visited the Abbey.

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

Roland rolled his eyes.

He had finally gotten away from the Holy Land, much to the others' regret, and had taken his booty and many weapons and his title and left from Rome. He had arrived without incident but upon being ordered to an audience with his Holiness, he had gone and given his report then had, much to his irritation, had been sequestered. No one was allowed to speak to or about him and no report of his living was sent to his people.

While he was so sequestered, for some weeks, the Pope also ensured that only the reports of Roland's death continued. When Roland had learned this, from the Holy Man himself, that the Pope was well aware of William and his machinations but he did not tell Roland that he had no doubt that the King would try to kill Roland if he had the chance. He did not tell Roland what William had done to Elizabeth nor about his son. Instead he had made it clear that Roland was to stay here in the Vatican until the Pope released him, as the Holy Father both needed assistance and advice in a number of military matters.

Roland had argued but had been silenced by the Pope's threat to have him arrested and held. Roland had been irritated but had given in. Besides he had been promised both payment and aid to return home. The Pope knew he was playing a dangerous game but if William found out Roland was alive he would try to kill him, or worse the innocents that meant so much to the Lord of Salisbury, whether it be the family in sanctuary, his cousin Brian, or the people who were caring for his land in his absence. He had little doubt Roland would actually kill William but the Pope could not allow this. Regicide was a crime that no one could survive, no matter who they killed, and the Pope wanted Roland to go home to and in peace.

So it was that Roland sat on one of the cardinals' chairs, in one of their silly gowns, listening to the various audiences the Pope accepted. He had been allowed this because the pope did not want him noticed or recognized, but also present at all things, and because several of the seats in the college were currently empty, thanks to the various wars, including the recent Crusade, and several civil wars that had drawn a number of the Holy Men back to their old parishes. The Pope has supported these actions but he needed a military commander to help both his own forces, and these fellows with their troubles, and had selected Roland. Roland had proven useful planning brilliant military attacks, but also clever tricks to prevent violence when it concerned the church leaders themselves.

He was given no credit but much thanks and though he tried, he was also well paid for his aid, and though only the Holy Father knew who and what he was, his advice, given to then through the Holy Father, was highly sought after.

While he was useful, Roland was bored, wanted to go home, and these damned robes were itchy. The actual cardinal to his side smirked at him and Roland grunted smirking back.

As ever he had made quick friends here and he was popular among his 'fellow' cardinals. He had been named as Cardinal Franklin De Soto of Wales and he was well aware he would be expected to resign when the time came but until then, he would have to be patient and try to enjoy what little he could about this place.
 
It was finally warm. Elizabeth stood in the courtyard of the abbey, soaking in the sunlight. It was a clear blue sky day, the snow half melted and revealing the green grass. She could hardly believe that she had been here for so long. It would be Easter soon. Only three days from now. For Lent she had done her fasting and shed her proper clothes for a simple wool kirtle. There was no point in dressing up for anyone. Everyone knew her status but here she did not gave to live by the rules of proper dressage. And besides, her kirtle was more comfortable than her fussy gowns.

Sighing, her fingers twisted the wedding band on her left ring finger, and she found herself walking through the courtyard and then the garden. Her life here was simple but she could not stay here forever and she had been debating the best course if action. She had heard nothing more from William but doubted his dealings with her was fine. Unfortunately, she had to return to Salisbury. Jessica and the others were capable of keeping order but it was time for spring planting. She had to return home but feared leaving and taking her children with her. Nathan and Catherine had happiness here and safety. The only way to keep them safe was for them to stay here. It was the last thing she wanted but there was much to be done in Salisbury and she had never been away from her children for more than a day. Her heart was heavy, the weight of responsibility heavy on her shoulders.

She made her way to the bishop's office, knocking before entering. "Good morning Bishop. I...I was wondering if I might have a word with you...."
 
The Bishop did not answer. He never would again.

He was sprawled over his desk, his robes ripped off his body, revealing the heavy fat. his skin was doughy pale, though he was covered in blood. His own.

A dagger was buried in the back of his skull, while a number of hideous gashes had been opened all over his body.

On the floor beside him lay Constance, her throat bloodily cut. She had her teaching notes and books beside her. And clasped in her hand was Catherine's doll. And one of Nathan's puzzles. Pinned onto her chest was a note. "Come out bitch."

As if knowing what she had seen William roared. "ELIZABETH!!! I HAVE YOUR CHILDREN!! AND YOUR PRECIOUS SERVANTS!!! COME OUT OR WATCH THEM DIE!!"
 
The scene made her scream and cover her mouth at the horror of the scene before her. When she heard William's voice, she swallowed and then made her way down quickly to the front, standing there in shock before walking onward him, her face white washed. She looked at her children, Catherine terrified, Nathan being restrained by two guards. She turned her gaze back to William and then straightened, walking toward him though she desperately wished to run to her children and hold them close. He was mad, utterly loose in his mind and therefore more dangerous than any man she may have met. "I'm here Your Majesty..." She whispered weakly.
 
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