27th of September, 975 A.D.

Western England

The knight brought his sword in a short arc toward his opponent's shoulder. He took a step back and brought his own sword up to block it. The knight thrust his sword forward. His opponent parried, then attacked, stepping into the knight and knocking the sword from his grasp. The triumphant dueller removed his helmet, fully revealing the features of a sixteen year-old boy. His name was Godric

The knight removed his own helmet and bowed his head in acknowledgement.

"That's the fifth time today I've beaten you, Druian. Are you sure you're trying?" The knight shrugged his shoulders.

"You are to be Earl of Gryffindor Manor when the time arises, you should be learning about ancient texts and politics, not duelling with me five times in a row for fun."

Godric frowned at this. "I can already read in Latin as well as hold a fluent conversation in French; I don't see how I could I possibly benefit from learning about politics. Besides," he added, smiling. "It's much more fun this way."

"You have been keeping up with the recent reports from court, correct?" When Godric gave him a look that appeared to be half-way between a sheepish smile and a blank expression, Druian continued. "There have been rumours that Lord Aedorein has broken the peace treaty. From what I heard, he may be attempting to attack Caerleon."

"But that's impossible. The knights of Caerleon are some of the most skilled in all of Britain."

"That is why he is not openly challenging them. He is playing it smart, lying low and biding his time."

"If he's doing so well, how do you know about it?" Godric asked a hint of suspicion in his voice.

"I have friends among the courtiers, which you would know of if you bothered to pay attention. They have heard whispers from the lower class that a war on sorcery will be upon us before long. Giving the way people have been feeling, it would not surprise me if it was a unanimous decision." Godric's eyes lit up.

"Of course! A war against all sorcerers would give Aedorein the perfect opportunity to attack Caerleon without worry of repercussion. He could accuse the ruling noble there of practicing sorcery, have him removed, and the land would dissolve into his own by default."

"Then you can see why this would be a particularly good time to continue our chess game, then."

They both sheathed their swords and took of the padding they had been wearing instead of mail. They then moved to the tent and proceeded with their previous discussion, and their chess game.

"If he can unite the kingdoms under a single goal, he may decide to attack the Scotts as well. Of course, he would have to get permission from the Pope's appointed leader." He said this last part with disdain, not even acknowledging the official title. Druian nodded at Godric's words and moved his bishop.

"Although the disdain in your voice is completely justified, young Edward does deserve his real title: Prince." Godric cracked a smile, as Edward, at 13 years old, had been officially crowned King two months ago to the day, and waited as Druian continued.

"To address your assumed strategy, and not the atrocious one of this chess game, yes, that could be a problem. Especially since the Druids have gone into hiding. It would make the Scotts, mainly the Picts the primary target, as they seem to be mostly lead by what others would consider sorcerers and barbarians, other than the sea-raiders down at the southern coast. There is also the grudge that everyone English seems to hold against them for being able to actually put up a good fight. Check." Godric moved his knight to protect his king, effectively blocking the bishop's path.

"Now, enough talk of politics; your father is due to return any day now. If his impeccable timing and luck hold up, he might even return without a death-wound." They continued to play the game in silence until Godric managed to lose both his knights and Druian had been forced to sacrifice his queen.

"I think that's enough for now," Druian announced, going out of the tent. "Though you really should work on subtlety of strategy, Godric, as the answer to everything is not to attack with the knight. Druian turned and began to make his way toward the Manor. Godric was about to follow when something on the road caught his eye. Looking closer he realized that it was a horse carrying a rider that Godric assumed was either unconscious or extremely drunk. His eyes widened as he recognized the figure. It was his father.