Edwin's Ecstasy 1

Edwin's Ecstasy 1 [part 1 of 17]
By: Will Buster

EDWIN'S ECSTASY 1 BY WILL BUSTER

"Well lad you're to be squire to Lord Chatterton now. It's time you learned knightly skills." Edwin stared at his father, a tough no nonsense Norman baron if there ever was one. But then baron Cranwell had to be, with their castle so close to Welch land and several other acquisitive barons always hungering for more land and the tenants there on.

Robert Bellamy, otherwise known as Lord Cranwell, was tall and very imposing. His craggy visage was accented by a gray streaked dark brown beard with balding head hair to match. He was old for the times being 39 winters old. However Lord Cranwell still could carve his way through a tournament or battle with the best of them. His voice grumbled like some brewing storm and Edwin learned from several encounters with Robert's course hand and leather strap that obedience was expected in the Cranwell household.

Edwin glanced into his father's ice blue eyes and saw a hint of good humor and pride flicker there for a brief moment.

The grumbling voice went on, "You'll learn a lot from Thomas Chatterton by Christ! Besides, he's one of the few barons within a two day ride of here that I can trust and that says a lot in these God forsaken times." Edwin looked a bit uneasy. "How long must I serve there?" "Probably three to four years but it's only twenty five miles away as the crow flies so I'm sure you can get back here for holidays and special events. I might even drop by myself from time to time to make sure they're making a proper gentleman of you." Edwin smiled a little, "Methinks you've done a good job of that already."

Robert mussed his son's shimmering blond hair with a gruff hand. "Maybe so, but Chatterton will teach you things a father can't or shouldn't. He's as tough as I am and won't brook any insolence or dishonesty but I don't need to tell you that. Just show him the same respect you show me and you'll do fine. You'll be leaving tomorrow so get your gear and Armour ready. You're not a knight yet but you'll need your chain mail in case there's action near the border."

"Are the Welch restless this year father?" "Who knows? There are always rumors. But 'tis best to take rumors serious until proved otherwise when it comes to the sly troglodytes from Wales. You know son, it would grieve myself and your mother's memory if I heard you were killed in fair battle. But it would be intolerable if I ever heard you were a coward. I don't expect miracles lad and they don't expect squires to lead cavalry charges but always quit yourself like a man and much can be forgiven you." Edwin looked a bit pensive for some long moments and replied at last. "Were you ever afraid in battle father?"

"Of course! Only a fool or maniac isn't! But you learn to control the fear. Remember the enemy is just as afraid of you as you are of him. Sometimes you may have to run or ride away from the enemy to set up a new line of defense or set up a new attack as I've told you before but that is a tactic and not cowardice."

"I know father, a coward is one who throws down his weapons, removes his helm and runs away from the field as if the hounds of Lucifer were after him." "Precisely!" "I best learn weapon trade well so fear is far from my mind when I fight the king's battles."

Robert looked into his son's innocent blue eyes and returned the smile. "Yes lad, learn your lessons well. Someday your life may depend on your sword and your shield. Become strong and confident in your prowess. Do not enter into to many tournaments. Many men become maimed and useless in them. But once in a tournament, quit yourself like a man and don't take a back place to anyone no matter what his rank. When it comes to the use of arms you'll be as good as any of them. I've made sure you know the difference betwixt a lance and a mace.

Edwin grinned, "Truth my lord and I have the bruises to prove it." They both laughed and the growling voice of Robert continued. "Better bruises than sword gashes I always say. You're still no match for a man at arms but you've learned a lot in the last two years. Now I want you to squire for Lord Thomas Chatterton and learn some more. Make me proud of you and for God's sake be a better man than me!"

Edwin noticed a strange look in Robert's face. He'd never quite seen that look before. It was regret but more than regret. There was something sad lurking in those ice blue eyes of his father. Edwin asked, "What is wrong sir?" "Someday you will know but today is not that day Edwin. Tomorrow you begin your career and hopefully if God is kind and the times just you will own this castle and the lands there to. You will become a baron of England and serve the king in his just causes. Now get you ready, you leave early in the morning."

His living quarters were dark and gloomy being the central room in the North tower. The walls were thick stone that held in the dampness and cold even in a hot summer. Glass was far too expensive and most windows were covered in wood shutters or with tanned animal skins so most interior light was supplied with wax or tallow candles. It was a smelly world with shit closets spaced in several rooms and hallways littered with bones that were regularly tossed to the hounds. Every noble had his pack of hunting dogs that were useful for the chase of forest game or hunting down some rebellious surf. Edwin kicked absently at the floor rushes and thought about what he would be taking. His well-oiled chain mail hung on wood pegs near the only door to his room. His helmet was of the simple variety and he liked it that way because it didn't impair his vision in any way. But Edwin's prize possession was the short sword. It was a magnificent weapon being made of the famous Toledo steel. The weapon alone was worth probably twenty surfs or more. His father had received it from Edwin's grandfather obtained during an early crusade to the Holy lands. Robert bestowed this exceptional sword to son Edwin when he'd turned 14. Robert told him at that important birthday, "You're a man now! So act like it! This is the family sword now so for Christ's sake don't loose it!"

With that Robert handed the glittering sword to Edwin and the new man had taken it reverently. Almost every day since then, he'd kept it oiled and sheathed, afraid to take it with him on a hunt for fear of loosing it. Now he would wear it proudly along with the other badges of his rank and privilege. His outer covering for his torso was a dark blue cloth with a white cross in the center. It proclaimed to all men that he, Edwin Bellamy was a Christian man of arms. He would not be given an emblazoned shield unless he became a knight. For now he would carry a plain shield for his protection. It only took him an hour to get everything ready for the journey.

*******

Twenty-five miles as the crow flies was more like thirty and a lot of it was woodland. In the year of our lord 1166 it wasn't the safest neighborhood either. You never knew when some surly, discontented surfs might get together to set on some unsuspecting traveler or a Welch raiding party might slip on over to pick up some ripe pickings. There were occasional outlaws as well although with two castles so relatively close together, such rogues didn't show up all that often in this particular shire. Nevertheless, Robert sent three of his best men with the young lordling just to be on the safe side.

Early that morning, the small party crossed the drawbridge and then Robert spoke in his usual gruff voice. "Edwin you are under Will's command until you get to Chatterton's castle. Is that understood?" "Yes sir, he knows the way and what dangers to be alert for. Will you not ride with us apace?" Robert smiled, "No lad, this is your adventure and I have much to do around here in any case. Now do me proud son and be off with ye!" With that he slapped the rump of Edwin's bay mare and the horse started trotting down the road quickly followed by the others. Robert watched until the party disappeared in the dusty cloud of the dry dirt road. Robert spoke softly, "God speed Edwin. May ye do better than me."

It was exciting to ride free so many miles from home in the pleasant English countryside. Each glen and gurgling stream was a new discovery for him. Every time they watered the horses the young man asked Will question after question and the older man patiently told Edwin everything he could. "Always keep the horses well watered Edwin. Heat is a horse's worst enemy. I've heard stories from Crusaders who lost many a good horse in the blazing deserts of Palestine. We have more water here so it's unforgivable for a noble or a common soldier to loose a horse to thirst. Take care of your horse AND he'll take care of you. That's my motto"

In spite of the occasional stops they made good progress going some six miles or more in an hour. The horses were well rested and chomped at the bit for the occasional gallop. So in open, level stretches they let the horses run fast to get the kinks out from the sedentary winter just passed. The small party had started shortly after dawn and they'd arrived about mid afternoon at the castle Chatterton. Edwin noticed immediately it was a much larger fortification than his father's castle. The moat was much wider, the walls higher and there were definitely more men pacing the ramparts. "You take over now master Edwin. Just cross the drawbridge and let the castellan know who you are and state your business. Tomorrow morning we will return to your father." "Thanks Will! The ride was most enjoyable."

He dismounted and led his horse across the drawbridge to the grinning guard. "I am Edwin Bellamy son of Lord Cranwell. I'm here to become squire to Lord Chatterton per their mutual agreement. Would you please inform him of my arrival?"

"So you are Cranwell's son eh? Well you're a pretty boy indeed. And who are these behind you if I might ask?" "My body guard sir. They leave on the morrow and request hospitality for the night under the safety of these walls."

"Well spoken lad, I'm Ralph Stutely and I'll be giving you a lot of your training. ?I'll shake your hand now but once inside you're probably feel my boot more than anything else. When it comes to training squires, I hate them all."

Edwin regretted shaking the iron grip that left his hand throbbing. "Fair enough Ralph. Father said this would be no picnic." Ralph gave him a mirthless grin. "Right, I'll let the lord know you are here. Your men are welcome for the night and we'll see to their quarters. You on the other hand, shall attend Lord Thomas right away."

"Lead on Sir Ralph." The castellan preceded him into the courtyard. It was almost like a small town with vendors selling bread, wine, weapons, toys, clothing, leather ware and many other things. It was a lot busier than his father's castle. In seconds, Edwin saw, heard and smelled the difference. Food odors made his mouth water and his stomach growl for he hadn't eaten anything since dawn.

Soon they left the busy courtyard and reached the keep. Three surly men guarded the entrance. Beside the portcullis a tall, wood pole supported a limply hanging blue banner. Ralph and the guards exchanged brief greetings as they walked right in. Ralph commented, "After dark, there is usually a watch word so that not just anyone can enter the hall. You can't be too careful these days. The watchword tonight is dog shit. You best remember that if you want to gain entry here at night. Every day I'll tell you the watch word like I do for the others." As he spoke they climbed a wide, ornately carved stone stairway that curved slightly to the left until they reached the second floor landing. Below them was the great hall complete with toiling servants, lounging hounds and long wood tables and benches. Ralph gave three sharp raps at the door. A commanding voice yelled, "Enter!"

Moments later Edwin was inside a large room. It was unique because it had lavish tapestries on the walls and a wool carpet on the floor. He'd never seen anything like that before so he knelt down curious to feel the unknown texture. A man probably about the same age as his father was sitting near a large oak desk that was piled high with tomes and scrolls. He laughed, "I see our young visitor has never seen a carpet before Ralph. He's got a lot to learn here that's certain!" Ralph yanked Edwin to his feet none to gently. "Yes my lord, this young cockerel here is Lord Cranwell's egg don't you know. He apparently is your new squire damn his eyes."

Edwin riveted his attention on the stern visage of Sir Thomas Chatterton, Lord Westbrook. He was tall with penetrating dark brown eyes. That level gaze took in everything at a glance. It was clear to Edwin that this was no man to trifle with. Chatterton's dignified demeanor was accented by the carefully trimmed beard that perfectly matched the thick, brown, slightly graying locks that reached to his powerful looking shoulders. Everything about the man announced power, command and intelligence.

Lord Thomas smirked at the new arrival, "What a pretty lad, I suspect you take after your mother eh?" A frown creased the young man's forehead but he said nothing. Thomas continued, "Leave us Ralph, I'll return him to your tender care soon enough but now we best get better acquainted." Ralph bowed slightly, "Yes my lord! Welcome to Lord Westbrook's service young Bellamy."

When they were alone Chatterton went on, "No offense lad. I meant my comment about your mother as a compliment. I see the same steel in your eyes that your father has and you hold your tongue well. Please sit down and share some wine with us." Edwin promptly sat in a chair a few feet away from his new benefactor. "How shall I address you sir?" Thomas poured out some wine in a flagon and handed it to Edwin. The younger man noted the utensil was of quality pewter and very finely etched.

Chatterton continued, "When you are in public you may address me either as Sir or Lord Westbrook depending on the circumstances. My lord is also acceptable. When we are alone like this you may call me Sir Thomas or sir and I will address you as Edwin, fair enough?"

"Yes sir, Tis an honor to serve you and I hope I will be worthy of your gracious patronage." Thomas laughed quietly this time. "I can see you've learned your father's lessons well. There are three major areas of conduct you will learn here. The first and most important is court etiquette. I know that will sound strange to you but how you conduct yourself at the king's court or any important gathering can do great things for your career. As you know the Norman and French courts are very formal and certain rules and obligations must be followed. IT is our tradition and yours as well."

Edwin asked with eager curiosity, "Have you actually met the king?" "Of course and so will you but all in good time. Henry is a man's man and a brave knight to boot. Tis a pleasure to serve such a courageous and intelligent man as he. But he won't have a minute for a budding youth such as yourself so you will have to earn his respect and notice."

Edwin smiled, "So my father has told me. Are you about the same age as my lord father?" Thomas smiled, "Actually I'm a few years older."

Edwin looked surprised, "You look younger sir than he. You carry your years well my lord." Thomas drank down some of his wine and leaned back in the chair. "Thanks for that Edwin. That's nice to hear. When you get to my age, you don't know how many years you have left. Few men of valor reach fifty and the few of us that reach sixty are usually sad relics full of aches and crippling diseases. Tis best to die well and live well I say."

Edwin's eyes misted a little, "I wish I'd known my grand father. He fought in the crusades and stories have come down to us about his exploits. Of course he's long dead God bless his soul." Edwin crossed himself after transferring the flagon to the other hand.

Thomas became pensive, "Yes that generation was a tough, no nonsense group of ruffians that ever crossed Christendom. They feared nothing save God and the devil. Well we're a little more civilized these days and Henry's court is a model of decorum and the rule of law. Peace has finally healed this kingdom since the days of Stephen and Matilda. What a squabble that was."

"I heard things were very bad sir Thomas." Thomas drank some more wine. "Bad isn't the half of it. King Stephen was a kind man in spite of the times. Perhaps he was too kind hearted for such tumultuous days. Late in his reign I'm told, he was walking to the cathedral to pray for God's mercy. Starvation was a common thing in those days. He reached the steps of the church and he sees a woman lying there with a child lying in her arms. They'd both starved to death. The king actually wept, God reward his tender heart. Soon after that, he allowed his poorer subjects to hunt deer and other forest animals to help keep them alive during the famine. It was perhaps his most noble act in a less than exemplary reign. To this day the peasants pray for Stephan's spirit during all souls day."

They were silent for a long time as they sipped more wine. Edwin asked, "What were the other two areas I need to learn?" Thomas started, "God's wounds! I'd almost forgotten! Yes young Edwin you must learn the use of arms and knightly chivalry. Hopefully you will become a knight one of these days and you need to know the proper knightly codes and the use of weapons. I'm sure you know something already but you've got a hell of a lot more to learn, trust me." "I do my lord."

Thomas refilled the flagons. "Well the last thing is you must learn the proper social conduct expected by ladies from good men of valor and rank. Some day you will have to marry and there are certain expectations and responsibilities concerning the correct treatment of women. Perhaps it might not be as vital as weapon craft but you would be surprised how much importance proper relations with women of rank can be. However for now, I believe that learning court etiquette and weapon craft will keep you busy enough. Your formal training starts tomorrow morning." "Thank you sir Thomas."

"I know over the next few years you will find Ralph and myself demanding and sometimes very stern but we do it for your own good. We have to train several squires like yourself and Ralph has no favorites and neither will I. When you do something wrong, you'll get a stern word from me and a boot up the ass from Ralph, is that understood?" Edwin laughed, "My father has done worse than that. He's given me the leather strap on many occasions and he's called me every name from the devil's spawn to Lucifer's child. I prefer honesty my lord."

"Than you shall have it in good measure, young Bellamy. I'm glad to see you have not been spoiled. It will make your training more valuable to you in the long run. You'll sup with us this evening and then Ralph will show you to your quarters. It won't be like home. You'll have to share your room with two other young squires like yourself. Someday you may get a private room but you'll have to earn it like everything else here. If you want respect you will have to obtain it with deeds and not words, remember that and you'll do fine here." ****** Edwin was dazzled by the banquet in the great hall. The music of a lute was virtually drowned out by loud laughter and the barking of dogs. Platters laden with food were quickly placed on the tables. Goblets of wine and cups of mead soon found thirsty throats while chunks of meat were carved by all manner of knives. Both men and women alike ate with their hands and occasionally wiped their greasy fingers on the dog's fur as the hungry animals eagerly waited for scraps and bones to be tossed their way.

Edwin saw Lady Chatterton for the first time. She was tall for a woman, very well breasted with long lustrous red hair that glistened with hints of gold in the flickering torch light. Her remarkable hair contrasted beautifully with her deep, penetrating green eyes. Her smile was inviting and her laughter throaty as she sat beside her lord husband. She was obviously a lot younger than Sir Thomas. Around the rest of the table there were men at arms, other squires, women of differing social station and various servants. It was apparent to Edwin's appraising glance, the lower the social rank, the drabber and plainer the clothes. Those of privilege sat closest to lord Chatterton while the men and women of base rank or mere servants sat either at the furthest end of the main table or at some of the other smaller benches.

Edwin was ravenous after the long journey that day. He devoured roast beef and a spicy turkey pie. Wine kept being poured into his flagon and after awhile his head began to swim in pleasant, mellow circles. However during the long meal, he was far too insecure and shy to speak with anybody. So he kept stuffing his mouth with the tasty meat and mixed vegetables. Soon he was imbibing the fruity mead to wash down the excellent meal.

When Edwin finally got to his room he was drunk. He staggered to a pallet where he gratefully collapsed on the straw. It was comfortable enough although the pillow filled with goose feathers was a bit to thin. Soon after two other young men entered the room. "Well, well, well, this must be Lord Cranwell's youngster!" Edwin sat up bleary eyed. "Who are you?"

The taller of the two laughed, "I think this youngster has had too much to drink eh?" The other chortled, "I wonder if he doth know what day 'tis past?" Edwin rubbed his eyes to see better but the room was dark and only a little moonlight trickled through the partly shuttered window. He stood up and found that the larger of the two was a full head taller than he. The tall one spoke, "I'm John Fitzgibbon and this is my second cousin twice removed, Harry Laroy." Edwin didn't know why but he instinctively disliked these two. So he asked in a non to friendly tone, "That's Welch isn't it?" Harry growled in response, "Tis but only by half. My mother was English and my father ?tis loyal to your king at least some of the time." The two related squires laughed but it was quite apparent they weren't very amused.

Edwin shook his head. "That doesn't make much sense to me but it's probably the wine. My name is Edwin Bellamy." John suddenly moved and grabbed Edwin's shirt by the collar none too gently. "You were lying in my bed young sir! You can have the pallet by the window. We've been here for a year and you'll follow our rules when you're in this room or you'll get slapped around a bit, understand little lad?"

Harry laughed without mirth, "Put the young whore son down Jon. He's tarried to long at the wine. Just toss the young baggage on yon bed." A moment later Edwin found himself lying on the indicated place. It wasn't as comfortable as the other but the pillow was a little thicker at least. Edwin was still groggy from excess of wine and mead and he kept his resentment in check. It wasn't wise to antagonize two men at the same time especially when they were larger and stronger than he was. So he said nothing while John and Harry talked.

After a few more derisive comments about Edwin's inability to hold his own liquor, John eventually ignored the lad and asked Harry, "Isn't Mary Brook quite the wicked wench?" "Yes she spreads for Tim Long, Will Fox and Jim Talbot to. I've been with her twice and praised be, I didn't get the pox." "Well I've heard she's clean enough but I haven't sampled her treats yet. Meg's more my taste. She's wide in the hips and rides me as if I were a stallion. Not only that but she has an excellent mouth and she uses it for more than just kissing, I warrant you." Harry laughed, "That sounds like excellent whoresmanship sir John. You always liked the fair haired wenches. I'll bet a Nottingham shilling she's a fucking sullied Saxon bitch!" Both young squires laughed at the jest and such talk filled Edwin's reeling brain until he eventually drifted off into oblivion. This begins an exciting novel filled with unbridled amorous adventures and courtly intrigues. I hope you enjoy this journey back to Norman England during the reign of Henry the second.