The Comte and the Peasant: Chapter Fifteen
Hi everyone! As always, a big THANK YOU to all those who read and reviewed the last chapter of this fanfic. As I mentioned last time, I had no idea that the new names would be such a turnoff for people! I'm glad that you all are enjoying this fanfic, and hopefully the story will be concluded within the next few chapters (although I realize I'm probably being overly ambitious). Looking at the creation date of this fanfic and how many chapters I've actually written, I'm surprised that so many people have continued to stay with the story. I apologize to everyone for the long wait between chapters, and thanks again to all those who have continued to give me their compliments and criticisms. Your continued support is much appreciated!
To BlackAmoria, I admit I have been neglecting Soujirou and Akira quite a bit, so they will be making an appearance in this chapter. With the direction that the story has taken, however, they'll unfortunately have a much smaller role than originally anticipated. I will try to give them a bigger part in my next fanfic, and I may consider writing an Akira fanfic (we'll see ). To Suave101, I never realized the discrepancy about how they found out about her name! Thanks so much for pointing that out….although I guess it's a little late for me to fix that ;;;;. Oops. Reading back over some of the earlier chapters, I can't believe I missed such an important detail…
One final thing I would like to mention is the mill that Thadea/Tsukushi's family owns. According to my reference book, mills in Troyes were actually owned by the count, bishop, abbeys, hospital, and various other proprietors of the city, and not the miller himself (which explains why millers weren't rich…). However, for the sake of my story, I am going to make their mill a family owned business. So with that said, enjoy the story!
HYD does not belong to me. I think I forgot to mention that last time……….
Thadea made her way down the Grande Rue carrying a small parcel containing her meager belongings on her arm. She had decided to make a stop at the marketplace to purchase some gifts for her family before heading home.
As she passed the Cour de la Rencontre, memories of her first meeting with Tiernan Doumet and Ruiz Hainault flashed through her mind. It seemed like centuries ago since that fateful day, and she hurried her steps to avoid looking at the wooden platform that stood stark and empty in the center of the court.
As she entered the Rue de l'Epicerie, Thadea began to slow her step, browsing the stalls and store windows. It was late, and many of the shopkeepers were preparing to close for the day. Thadea made a stop at the pastry shop to purchase some wafers for her brother, whom she knew had a sweet tooth. She also stopped at the fish monger's stall to purchase a fish, which her mother could cook for supper.
"I probably shouldn't be spending my money on something so extravagant," she thought as she watched the vender wrap the fish up in a scrap of cloth. But still, it had been a long time since she had seen her family, and a good meal was something they all deserved.
"Thadea? Thadea Marcoux?" A shy, slightly high pitched voice addressed her from behind.
Thadea turned in surprise to see Kasen Audet standing a few feet away from her, a cheerful smile on his round, boyish face.
"Kasen!" Thadea cried in delight, remembering the young man who had helped her. "It's good to see you again!"
Kasen flushed with pleasure at Thadea's greeting, and walked over to her. He was dressed as extravagantly as ever in a bright green tunic with large triangle shaped sleeves that flapped as he walked. "I'm glad you still remember me," he said happily. "It's been a while."
"Of course I couldn't forget you," Thadea said, taking her purchase from the vendor and placing it in her sack. "Not after all that you did for me."
"Oh it was nothing," Kasen laughed in embarrassment. "It was the least I could do after you saved me from those robbers."
"Well, I don't know about saved," Thadea replied modestly, "but I'm glad I was able to help." She began walking down the street and Kasen followed.
"So what are you doing?" Kasen asked, trying to make conversation. "Buying groceries for the Comte's house again?"
"Err….no," Thadea said, "this isn't for the Comte's household. I actually don't work there anymore."
"Really?" Kasen seemed surprised, "I hope they didn't fire you because of what happened the last time. I mean you were able to replace the groceries…"
"It wasn't that. I quit," Thadea said. She wasn't sure how much she should tell Kasen Audet about her personal life, especially since she barely knew him. She glanced at him and his smiling, expectant face and relaxed a bit.
"My brother's ill with a fever, so I'm returning home to help take care of him," she told him after a brief pause. "That's why I'm not working for the Comte anymore."
Kasen nodded, a frown of worry on his face. "I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope he'll make a quick recovery."
"Thanks," Thadea smiled at him, appreciating the genuine concern he showed for her family. "I have no idea what it could be, but I'm praying that it isn't serious. He's my family's only son."
"Is there anything I can do?" Kasen offered thoughtfully. "Perhaps I could find a doctor for him."
"No, that's quite alright," Thadea said quickly. As nice as Kasen Audet was, she did not want to take anything from him.
"Well, at least let me give you a ride home," Kasen insisted. "I have a carriage, and it will certainly save you some time and energy than walking all the way there by yourself."
"I…I don't know," Thadea replied, glancing at him uncertainly. She was unused to Kasen's overfriendly manner, and it made her uneasy. On the other hand, it was a rather long walk to her family's mill from the city and it would be nice to reach home before dark.
"Come on," Kasen said, grabbing her arm and pulling her with him, "I won't take no for an answer!"
Although still hesitant, Thadea allowed herself to be lead away.
As the carriage sped along the dirt road on the outskirts of the city, Thadea realized that her suspicions had been misplaced. Kasen Audet was truly a kind and innocent young man, chattering happily and eagerly with her about anything and everything he could think of.
"I'm sorry if I seem a bit forward," Kasen apologized suddenly, giving Thadea a sheepish smile. "I know I talk too much…I don't mean to bore you…"
Thadea shook her head, giving him a reassuring smile. "I don't mind. I must say though that you are a lot…err…friendlier than most people. Not that that's a bad thing…" she added hastily.
"I know my behavior's a bit odd," Kasen admitted, running a hand through his mop of unruly red hair. "I guess it's because I don't really have that many friends. When I was younger, I was very sickly, and I wasn't allowed out of the house so I never played with children my own age. I suppose it also made it harder because I was an only child. As I got older and my family became wealthier…I don't know, I guess it was difficult for me to relate to the children of the other burghers…I didn't really grow up like they did…"
"I don't think you're strange," Thadea said honestly, finally understanding Kasen's unconventional behavior. "I think you're a very nice young man. Most people of your station wouldn't have given me the time of day, and you've gone out of your way to help me. I can't tell you how much I appreciate that."
Kasen blushed furiously at the compliment, and stared out the window of the carriage. "It sure is pretty out here," he muttered, trying to change the subject.
"It's a lot slower…and a lot more peaceful…" Thadea said softly, staring at the acres and acres of lush green fields that passed by. "I'd forgotten how lovely it is."
As they got closer to the mill, Thadea began to recognize the familiar houses of her neighbors. They were structures that she had known all her life, and as she remembered the fond memories of her childhood, a feeling of peace and comfort swept through her. Thadea closed her eyes and let out a deep sigh. She was finally home.
Upon arriving at the mill, Cherie Marcoux rushed out to greet the unusual carriage which had pulled up in front of their house. She was surprised to see Thadea climb out of it, followed by an odd looking young man in a crazily colored outfit.
"Thadea! What on earth is going on?" Cherie demanded, eyeing Kasen suspiciously, "And who is this?"
"This is Kasen Audet mama," Thadea replied, embarrassed by her mother's rudeness. "He was kind enough to give me a ride home."
Cherie frowned, unsure of what to make of the situation. "And just exactly who is he? And whose carriage is this?"
"It's mine madam," Kasen said, giving Thadea's mother a polite bow. "Your daughter helped me from a rather unpleasant situation and I offered to escort her home. I am indebted to her…"
"This is your carriage?" Cherie Marcoux interrupted. She smiled at Kasen with newly found interest. "Tell me young man, who is your father?"
"My…my father? He's Antoine Audet, a burgher in the…" Kasen began uncertainly.
"In the textile trade!" Cherie screamed excitedly. "My goodness, how kind of you to bring my daughter home! Please, you must come inside! We're about to have dinner and it would be an honor for you to join us!"
Thadea could feel a sweatdrop forming at the back of her head as her mother fairly dragged Kasen inside. It was going to be a long evening.
Kasen left after supper, just as the sky began to grow dark. Thadea stood outside her house waving goodbye to him as his carriage pulled away down the road.
Supper had gone surprisingly well despite the 'overzealousness' of her mother and father. She didn't know what they were up to, but Thadea was fairly certain that her parents had gone insane.
Heading back inside, Thadea saw her mother and father cleaning up. Her brother Sumner was fast asleep in the far corner of the room. His fever had thankfully gone done, and he had even been well enough to join them for supper.
"It looks like you've done well for yourself in the city," Cherie Marcoux remarked slyly as Thadea came over to help her clean the dishes. Thadea gave her mother a look of exasperation. "Mama, it's not like that. Kasen's just a friend."
"But friendship can grow into love," her mother said wisely, her eyes sparkling.
Thadea rolled her eyes. "Sometimes I think you'd sell me to the gypsies if they'd offer you the right sum."
"Now don't get smart with me," Cherie warned. "Don't tell me you don't realize how important money is."
"Money isn't everything," Thadea replied defensively. "You've always told me that."
"I told you that? That doesn't sound like something I'd ever say," Cherie replied. She turned to Thadea's father who was wisely staying out of the conversation. "Pierre, don't you agree that Kasen Audet would make a fine son-in-law? His father must make..."
"Mama! What the hell are you saying!" Thadea was shocked by the thoughts that were flying through her mother's head. "I am NOT marrying Kasen Audet! I barely even know him!"
"That doesn't mean you can't get to know him better," Cherie insisted. "Especially since your brother is recovering, you will probably be able to return to the city within the week!"
"Return to the city?" Thadea was puzzled. "Don't you realize that I quit my job permanently? I'm not returning to the Comte's household."
"What!" Cherie Marcoux nearly dropped the plate she was holding in her hand. "What did you just say!"
"I said I'm not going back. I thought you knew." Thadea was surprised by her mother's reaction. She hadn't expected her mother to be disappointed by her return home.
"Oh NO! What are we going to do!" Cherie Marcoux screamed. Thadea turned to her father in utter confusion, only to find that he too seemed visibly upset.
"What is going on with you people?" Thadea demanded, her mind racing. She could feel fear welling up inside her. Why were her parents acting so strange?
"We didn't want to tell you because we thought that you would only be home a few days," her father said sadly, refusing to meet her eyes. "The…the mill has been doing very badly since you left, and…and…" Tears welled up in his eyes and his voice choked. He was unable to continue.
"Thadea," her mother said quietly, placing a hand on her shoulder, "Your father mortgaged the mill. Your brother's illness was the last straw for us. We needed the money to help pay for the medicine and his care…"
Thadea gaped in shock as she processed the news. Her family had sold their mill? "But…but what are we going to do now? Do we have to move?"
"No, no, it's nothing like that," her mother replied hastily. "Your father just has to do his best to pay back the burgher who we've mortgaged the mill to. The interest is fairly high, but we're already doing better. Don't worry, we won't lose it." Cherie smiled weakly, trying to reassure her daughter, but her eyes showed little confidence.
Thadea knew that her mother had no faith in her father's abilities. She doubted herself whether the business could improve. "Does this mean that you would rather I found a job in the city?" Thadea asked.
"No, no, now that you've returned, there's no reason for you to go back there," her mother replied.
"But…it seemed like you were worried…you don't need one more mouth to feed," Thadea said awkwardly. She wasn't sure what the best solution was, but she was willing to go back to Troyes if it meant helping her family.
"No, we didn't mean it like that. We were just surprised, that's all," her father spoke up. He had calmed down and was trying his best to put on a happy face. "We're just glad that you're home. Your mother could still use the help, especially since we don't know how long it will take Sumner to recover."
Thadea glanced over at her brother, who was thankfully still asleep. Her father was right about Sumner's recovery. Although he was getting better, who knew how long it would take before he was able to go back to work in the mill.
"I…I could help out…at the mill that is," Thadea said, after a brief pause. "I don't know much about the trade, but I'm willing to learn. Maybe I might be good at it." She smiled brightly, trying to lift her father's spirits. "Don't worry papa, I can help! Sumner's still weak from the fever, but there's no reason why I can't take his place."
Her father and mother hesitated at the suggestion. A female miller was unheard of. "I don't know Thadea…" her mother began, "I was hoping you could help me with the housework…"
"I could still do that," Thadea said quickly, "but since Sumner is recovering, you'd be able to devote more time to the housework and the garden. If that's the case, then I think I would be of more use to papa at the mill." She looked at her parents eagerly. "Please, let me try…"
"But…but…" her father still seemed unsure, "what will the neighbors say?"
"Since when have we ever cared what they thought of us?" Cherie demanded. She smiled at Thadea, the look of hesitation gone from her face. "Thadea, I think that's a great idea. You will go to the mill with papa first thing tomorrow morning."
Pierre Marcoux was still uncertain, but seeing the enthusiasm in both his daughter and his wife, he eventually gave in to the idea.
The next day…
Thadea Marcoux rubbed her sore shoulders as she headed back home. It was late in the afternoon, and she had been up since dawn helping her father at the mill.
Her first day had been plagued by mistakes and accidents, but Thadea was determined to do better. It was true that she had yet to develop the strength to lift the heavy sacks of grain and had spilled flour more than once, but she was doing her best and was confident that the next day would be better. She wished, however, that they could purchase another horse for the mill, seeing as how their current mare was growing older and weaker by the day.
"Maybe mama's right," Thadea thought sadly, trudging along the dirt road towards her house. "Maybe money is everything." She thought about what she could do with just a few more deniers. "There's so much that we need to buy…so much that needs replacing or fixing…" But unfortunately, money didn't grow on trees, and in the meantime, they had to make do with what they had.
"Help! Help!"
A loud anguished cry rang out from some distance ahead, startling Thadea out of her thoughts. She looked up quickly towards the source of the noise, seeing a dark figure lying along the side of the road.
"Oh my god!" Thadea cried, running quickly over to the fallen individual. "Are you alright? What happened?" As she drew closer, she could see that it was a young man no older than she. He was lying on his side on the ground. There was a large gash on his forehead and blood trickled down the side of his face. His left leg was bent at an odd angle, and Thadea realized immediately that it was broken.
"Help me," he cried weakly, struggling to get up. Thadea placed a hand on his back gently, pushing him down. "Don't move," she said firmly, "Your leg is broken. We need to find someone to carry you to a doctor…or at least get you home." She studied the large gash on his forehead carefully, concluding with relief that it was just a flesh wound.
"Who are you?" the young man questioned. He turned his head to get a better look at Thadea.
"My name's Thadea Marcoux. I live not far from here," she replied. She studied him carefully, noting the high quality fabric of his tunic and the whiteness of his hands. He was obviously someone of high status. "Who are you? And what happened to you?"
"My name's Jean Luc Odin," the young man replied. "I was riding and something startled my horse. It threw me and ran off, and I haven't been able to get up. You're the first person that's passed by since it happened. I was afraid that no one was ever going to find me…"
"Well, these roads aren't very well traveled this time of year," Thadea admitted. "No one lives around here. The entire area is covered with wheat fields. Obviously, since it's summer, no one really comes down here."
"Then what are you doing here?" Jean Luc asked suspiciously.
"My father owns the mill nearby. I was…err…helping him this morning and I'm on my way home." Thadea smiled down at him reassuringly. "Don't worry, I'm not here to rob you."
"I didn't think you were," Jean Luc replied. He offered her a small smile. "You seem like a nice girl."
Thadea blushed at the compliment. "Well, I am nice, but now let's see if I'm useful. We've got to figure out a way to move you." She frowned, thinking. She didn't want to leave Jean Luc alone on the road by himself, but she had to get help. Unfortunately, it would take a good twenty minutes before she could reach a neighbor's house.
"Hmm…like I said, no one really lives around here," she told him carefully, "so I'll need you to stay here while I go call for help…"
"No! No! Don't leave me here!" Jean Luc cried. He seemed panicked at the idea of being left alone again. "Please, don't go…"
"Alright, alright, bad idea then," Thadea replied quickly. She bit her lower lip, trying to think of a different plan. She glanced down at Jean Luc's twisted leg and winced. The injury reminded her of a few years ago, when one of Sumner's friends had broken his leg while trying to climb a tree. She remembered watching the boy's father set the leg…perhaps she could do the same with Jean Luc?
"Do you think you might be able to walk on that other leg?"
Jean Luc frowned. "I think so," he said hesitantly.
"Okay…well maybe I can fashion a splint or something for your broken leg, and then we can see if we can get you to my house. I can be your crutch." Thadea stood up. "I'll be right back," she said as she headed off.
A few moments later, she returned carrying a tree branch which she had broken off from a nearby oak. "Here," she said, kneeling down and setting the branch on the ground, "this is going to hurt, but it's the only way." She looked at Jean Luc, and he nodded.
"Do what you have to do," he said, closing his eyes and clenching his jaw. Thadea looked down and placed her hands on his broken leg. Taking in a sharp breath, she jerked his leg into the correct position.
Jean Luc screamed in agony. Thadea grimaced at the sound, but set to work placing the tree branch against his leg and tying them together with strips of cloth she had torn from her apron. She tied the branch firmly and tightly into place and then got up, brushing the dirt off her dress.
"I'm sorry I had to do that, but there was no other way." Thadea reached down and struggled to help Jean Luc to his feet. After several awkward attempts, they finally succeeded in getting the boy to a standing position.
Thadea placed her arms around Jean Luc's waist to keep him upright and he in turn placed an arm around her shoulder, leaning on her for support. Slowly, they made their way down the dirt road, one step at a time, to Thadea's house.
At the Marcoux residence…
"Mama! Hurry! I need help!" Thadea cried as she caught sight of her house. Instantly, her mother came rushing outside, a look of pure panic on her face.
"Oh my god, Thadea! What's wrong? What happened!" Cherie Marcoux ran towards the sound of her daughter's voice and gasped at the sight before her. The front of her daughter's dress was covered with blood, and she was holding onto a young man who looked on the verge of collapse.
"Hurry mama, he's been injured," Thadea cried. "I need you to help me carry him inside." Her mother rushed over to pull the young man into the house, and together, the two women were able to place him onto a bed.
"Jean Luc," Thadea said, "What is your father's name and where do you live? I need to send someone to tell him what happened to you."
"My father lives in Troyes…our house is on the Rue de Carreaux Broce-Aux-Juifs…near the Abbey de St. Loup…" Jean Luc replied weakly.
"What's his name!" Thadea demanded.
"Auguste…Auguste Odin…"
"Good, thank you," Thadea turned away hurriedly and ran out the door. "Boil some water mama so we can clean his cuts. I'm going over to Yves' house to ask him if he could ride into town!" Running over to her neighbors' cottage, Thadea failed to notice the look of shock on her mother's face at the mention of the name Auguste Odin.
A little while later…
Thadea sat by Jean Luc's side as she waited for Yves to return with Jean Luc's father. Her mother had cleaned the cut on his forehead and wrapped some clean cloth around his head. Now that the blood and dirt had been removed from his face, Thadea couldn't help but notice how handsome Jean Luc was.
The young man was clearly in his mid to late teens. He had very fine features, almost too delicate for a man's. Shiny honey gold locks fell over his high forehead, covering large dark brown eyes which were framed by long, thick lashes. His skin was tan and smooth, his cheeks high and flushed. He caught Thadea staring at him, and she turned away blushing.
"Your father should be here soon," she said, trying to make conversation. "Hopefully he can get you to a doctor."
"I'm fine," Jean Luc said, smiling at her gratefully. "You and your mother did a great job taking care of me. I don't think I even need a doctor now…"
Thadea flushed at the compliment, but shook her head. "You should see a doctor, just to make sure that your leg is set right. My handiwork alone is most certainly not reliable."
Jean Luc studied his broken leg, which was still tied to the tree branch Thadea had found. "I believe no doctor could have done better. You did a fine job…Thadea." He pronounced her name carefully, studying the way it sounded on his lips. He glanced up at her, giving her another dazzling smile. "You have a very pretty name."
Thadea's cheeks continued to burn and she shifted uneasily in her chair. "Thanks," she muttered shyly, turning away from Jean Luc's gaze. Just as she tried to think of something else to say, Yves rushed into the room followed by a group of strong, young men.
"Jean Luc, are you alright! What happened?" One of the young men rushed forward, rushing past Yves and pushing him aside.
Jean Luc waved at him nonchalantly and shrugged his shoulders. "Just a riding accident Michel. I'm fine. There's no need to make such a fuss." He turned to Thadea, but she had already gotten up and was standing next to Yves, making room for the cluster of young men who had entered the small room.
"Hold still and we'll carry you to the carriage," Michel said, gesturing to the other young men to come forward. Two of them carried a makeshift gurney of some sort and stood next to the bed. Carefully, two other young men came and hoisted Jean Luc onto it. As they carried him outside, Jean Luc turned to look back at Thadea.
"Thanks for everything Thadea! I won't forget your kindness!"
Thadea waved at him from her doorway, watching as the young men placed Jean Luc into a sleek carriage that was parked outside. Jean Luc stared at her from the carriage window, a curious expression on his face.
As the carriage pulled away, Thadea could feel him continue to watch her until he was out of sight.
Letting out a small sigh, Thadea turned to Yves who stood silently at her side. "I'm sorry that guy shoved you aside like that," she apologized with a sheepish smile, "But what can you really expect from the rich."
Yves laughed. "You don't need to apologize for them Thadea. It's not your fault."
Thadea turned to the tall, dark haired young man who had been her childhood friend and smiled fondly at him. "Thanks for your help Yves. I just wish your efforts could have been better rewarded."
Yves shrugged his broad shoulders carelessly. "Doesn't matter. You know I'm always willing to help a friend." He gave Thadea's shoulder a friendly squeeze before heading out the door. "If you really want to repay me Thadea, you should come and visit me more often. My mother and sisters have been wondering when you'd come by for supper. They haven't seen you in ages."
"I'll come by soon, I promise," Thadea said as she watched Yves walk away toward his house. Then, she turned back to go inside. Her brother Sumner had been awakened by all the commotion, and was now sitting up groggily, looking at her in confusion. "Hey sis, what happened?"
"Nothing you need to worry about," Thadea replied. She grinned at her younger brother slyly. "Hey Sumner, I brought you something…only, eat it before mama and papa come back."
Her brother raised an eyebrow. "What have you got sis?"
Thadea rushed over to her cloth sack which she had placed under her parents' bed. She pulled out the small package of wafers which she had bought from the pastry shop. "I know mama would yell at me if she found out I spent money on these, but I know how much you like sweets, and you deserve it after being sick for so long." She handed the package to her brother, and watched in delight as his pale face lit up.
"Aw thanks sis! You're the best!"
"Just be careful about eating them," Thadea warned as she tousled her younger brother's hair fondly. "Now I've got to start dinner, and keep a watch out at the door for when mama comes back."
Moments later…
Cherie Marcoux entered the house carrying a small bundle of vegetables in her arms. After she had cleaned up Jean Luc and Thadea had returned, she had gone back to work in her garden. Now that the sun was beginning to set, she returned to prepare the evening meal.
"So he's gone," she noted as she saw the empty bed that Jean Luc had previously occupied.
"Yes. His father sent an entourage to carry him home," Thadea replied. She was crouching by the hearth in the corner of the room, stirring a large pot of broth.
"Thadea, do you know who that boy's father is?" Cherie asked, walking over to where her daughter sat.
"Yes, he said his name was Auguste Odin. Judging from the clothes, the carriage, and the horde of manservants…I'd say he's probably someone of great importance. Maybe a wealthy merchant or something…"
"Auguste Odin is the burgher your father mortgaged the mill to," Cherie said softly.
Thadea looked up at her mother in disbelief. "No…"
"It's a small world apparently," Cherie remarked dryly, beginning to rinse the vegetables she had brought in. "Perhaps our kindness will leave a good impression with him…although I doubt someone like that would even remember after today."
Thadea shook her head, still processing the news that her mother had given her. "Why didn't you tell me that he was…"
"I didn't think it would be right to tell you when he was still here. I knew it would have made you uneasy," her mother replied.
"It wouldn't have stopped me from helping him mama."
"I know, but you may have said something that need not have been said. It was better that you didn't know."
Thadea turned away from her mother, a feeling of anger and annoyance sweeping through her. She couldn't believe that her mother had kept such an important piece of information from her! An image of Jean Luc's face flashed through her mind just then, only this time, he didn't seem so handsome to her anymore.
In Paris…
Ruiz Hainault rubbed his temples, trying to shake the dull headache that had been plaguing him for the past three days. He had gotten little sleep since arriving in Paris a week ago and the fatigue was taking a toll on his body.
"My lord," a young steward suddenly appeared in the doorway of his chambers, "your father has requested that you join him for dinner at the royal court. The English ambassador, Thomas Covington, will be in attendance."
"Tell my father I will be there," Ruiz said wearily, waving the young steward away. He sat in his chair, staring absently into space. Negotiations with England were not going well, and he prayed silently that tonight would bring some progress towards a peaceful solution.
As he got up to change and prepare for the evening's event, Ruiz thought of his friends, who would most likely be in attendance at the banquet. He had seen little of them since arriving in Paris, for he had spent much of his time in meetings with his father, but he was eager to reunite with Stefan and Aleron. Tiernan, on the other hand, was a different matter.
Ruiz had not spoken with Tiernan since the day in his parlor over a week ago. He had waited until Tiernan had left before returning to the room, only to find Thadea crying alone inside. She had not seen him, for he had stayed in the doorway. Seeing the state she was in, he had decided not to disturb her.
Ruiz knew intuitively that whatever had passed between she and Tiernan was something that Thadea needed to deal with on her own. Still, he worried about her and a small part of him yearned desperately to know what had been said between the two of them.
"What's happening to me?" he wondered, "Since when did I start to care so much about Thadea Marcoux and Tiernan?" He shook his head, trying to clear away the uneasy feeling that had suddenly emerged inside him. He wasn't sure why, but this offhanded observation had somehow unlocked emotions in him that he thought were gone forever. These feelings excited and frightened him all at the same time.
Ruiz looked up into the polished surface of the silver mirror that hung on his bedroom wall and was disturbed by the image that was reflected back at him.
At the royal court that evening…
Tiernan Doumet looked on with annoyance at the scene before him. The entire week had been a complete waste of time, and his patience was growing shorter with each passing day. Negotiations with the English ambassador were going nowhere, and as far as he was concerned, the banquet tonight was pointless.
Tiernan knew that the presence of the ambassador was just a formality, and that the English king had no intention of relinquishing his 'right' to the French throne, despite the peace talks instigated by the Pope between him and King John II.
"I can't believe we have to sit through this," Tiernan declared, turning to Stefan who was seated to his right. Stefan did not reply, however, for he was preoccupied with trying to make eye contact with some nobleman's daughter who had caught his fancy.
"Will you quit that?" Tiernan remarked in annoyance. "Can't you seen she isn't interested?"
"Not interested? That's impossible!" Stefan was scandalized at the suggestion. "She just hasn't seen me yet."
"Why don't you leave him alone Tiernan?" Aleron stated from his left. "Not all of us are as dense as you when it comes to women."
"What was that!" Tiernan was about to punch Aleron in the arm, then thought better of it. He wasn't stupid enough to make a scene at court. "Not all of us are willing to jump on anything that wears a dress," he retorted.
"Hey! Don't insult me just because you have no…" Aleron's voice trailed off as the Comtess of Calais passed by their table. She looked up at Aleron out of the corner of her eye, and he in turn greeted her with a sly smile.
Tiernan turned away from him in disgust. "What is it with you and married women Aleron? One of these days, you're going to find yourself on the wrong end of some jealous husband's sword."
"At least I will have died for a good cause then," Aleron remarked lightly. "Older women are the best…and it's unfortunate that all of the beautiful ones tend to be married. It's a technicality that I prefer to overlook."
Tiernan scowled darkly at Aleron's words.
"Don't act so high and mighty Tiernan," Aleron stated. "It's common knowledge that everyone who is married has affairs on the side." He took a sip of wine from his glass, and smiled knowingly. "Don't pretend to be above it."
"I would never cheat on my wife," Tiernan stated firmly, crossing his arms in front of his chest.
Aleron laughed at the idea. "You're just saying that now, but let's see what your attitude will be when you actually get married. I guarantee you that you will feel differently…"
"Tiernan isn't like you. I believe that he wouldn't be the type to engage in extramarital affairs." A soft voice interrupted.
Aleron glanced over at Ruiz in annoyance. "Since when did you start believing in the piety of Tiernan Doumet?"
Ruiz shrugged, "I'm just stating what I think that's all." He looked away from Aleron, and said nothing more.
Tiernan stared at Ruiz for a long moment. Ruiz had been solemn and silent throughout the banquet and had barely spoken to him the entire evening. While Tiernan still felt anger towards Ruiz for the events that had passed a week ago, he was also concerned for his friend, especially by the troublesome circumstances that were arising with England.
"Are you worried about what's going to happen with the English ambassador Ruiz?" Tiernan asked finally, after a long moment of silence.
Ruiz turned to face him. Tiernan could see the barely masked fear that was showing in his blue-gray eyes. "It seems that Edward's not willing to give up the throne. I guess there's nothing left to discuss then."
Tiernan nodded in understanding. So Ruiz realized it too. "What is your family going to do then?" he asked seriously.
"I don't know. I guess we shall wait to see what the King does. There is nothing much we can do really."
"Hey, cheer up Ruiz," Aleron said, putting a hand on his friend's shoulder. "You're not the only one who's got a family or two married to an Englishman. My aunt Marguerite is married to the Earl of Salisbury and Tiernan's sister is the Countess of Fenton. There is no reason why your family should need to worry about the King. If he was going to punish your family because of who your aunt's married to, then the whole court would be in trouble!"
"Aleron's right," Stefan agreed, finally turning away from his fair maiden to join in on the conversation. "There's no reason why your family should be in trouble just because of Phillipa."
Ruiz hesitated, but then smiled appreciatively at his friends. "You're probably right. I am just worrying too much." He turned away from them and glanced at the large doorway which led outside to the palace courtyard. "I think I'm going to get some fresh air. I will be back." Standing up, he headed quickly across the marbled great hall.
"I think I'll join him," Tiernan stated, watching Ruiz's retreating back with a frown. He stood too, and left Aleron and Stefan to stare after him.
"Wonder what that was all about," Stefan remarked. He turned to Aleron who shrugged his shoulders in response.
"Whatever. Let those two do what they want," Aleron stated, turning back to the festivities. He had better things to focus on at the moment, for another course was being served and the Comtess of Calais was passing his way again.
In the courtyard…
Ruiz stood outside, enjoying the warm breeze of the summer evening. The palace courtyard was surrounded by immaculate rose bushes in full bloom and the blossoms perfumed the air with their heavy, sweet scent.
"You have every right to be worried Ruiz." A voice stated from behind him.
Ruiz did not bother to turn around, but sighed heavily in response. "Maybe Aleron and Stefan are right. Maybe I am just worrying over nothing. Afterall, my family isn't the only one who has a daughter married to an Englishman. Just look at your sister for example…"
"Yes, but my sister isn't married to the King of England," Tiernan stated quietly. "There's a big difference between a countess and a queen."
Ruiz's shoulders slumped in despair, as his own thoughts were mirrored in Tiernan's words. Although he tried desperately to deny the truth of the situation, he knew at that moment the events that were sure to come.
"I think both Aleron and Stefan understand the severity of your situation…they're just refusing to face the truth," Tiernan continued.
Ruiz finally turned to look at him, and saw the concern that was etched in Tiernan's face. A pang of guilt stabbed at his heart. "Look Tiernan…about what happened last time…"
Tiernan shook his head dismissively, "Let's not talk about that now. You have more important things to think about."
Ruiz couldn't help but smile at his childhood friend. Although Tiernan could be selfish and crude at times, he always came through when it really mattered. As he met Tiernan's gaze, he could see the loyalty and determination that burned in his dark brown eyes.
"Nomatter what happens between us, I'll always stay by you Ruiz. I promise." Tiernan said quietly, before looking away.
Ruiz nodded, closing his eyes. He turned away to stare up at the starry night sky and did not turn around again until Tiernan had gone back inside.
Back in Troyes…
Thadea was cleaning up after the midday meal when she heard a knock at the door. Opening it, she was surprised to find Jean Luc standing there, leaning on a makeshift wooden crutch for support. His broken leg had been re-bandaged with straps of linen and leather, and the cut on his forehead had scabbed over nicely.
"Hello Thadea," he greeted her kindly, attempting a small bow.
Thadea nodded in response, forcing a small smile. "This is a surprise Jean Luc. What are you doing here?" she asked. She had not expected to see him again.
"I came here to give you something," Jean Luc replied, seeming not to notice her cool demeanor. "I ruined your apron and dress yesterday, and I felt it was only proper that I replace them." He gestured to the servant who had accompanied him, and the young man promptly presented Thadea with a small package.
"I…I can't accept this," Thadea said, refusing to take it from the young man's hands. "Really, you needn't have bought this for me…"
"Please, I insist," Jean Luc stated firmly. He stared at her intently, showing that he would not take no for an answer. "I will be insulted if you do not accept my gift."
Thadea sighed, realizing that there was no use resisting. She reached out and took the package. "Th…thank you Jean Luc. This is too kind of you."
"It's nothing," Jean Luc replied, flashing a smile. "I just hope you like them."
"I'm sure I will," Thadea said. She glanced back into her house uncertainly, unsure of what else to do. "Err…would you like to come in?" she asked, after a brief pause.
"No, no, I should be on my way," Jean Luc said. "I am still feeling weary from my accident yesterday, and I need to return home to rest." He smiled at Thadea. "I did, however, have something else I wanted to ask you."
Thadea nodded, "What is it?"
"Well, my father is holding a dinner tonight for some of his investors. No one interesting ever comes to those functions, and I was hoping that you might come tonight as my guest. It will be a lot of fun, I promise."
Thadea gaped at Jean Luc in shock. He was asking her to join him for dinner? With a bunch of his father's investors in attendance?
"I…I appreciate the invitation Jean Luc," Thadea said slowly, still trying to recover from this unexpected turn of events. "But…I don't think it would be proper for me to go."
"Of course it would. Why not?" Jean Luc demanded. He looked at her imploringly. "Please, say you'll join me."
"But I have nothing to wear," Thadea insisted, "The idea is ridiculous! Imagine me, a peasant, as a guest at a great bourgeoisie banquet!"
"My mother is about your size and she has plenty of dresses that you could borrow from," Jean Luc argued. He stood his ground stubbornly. "I don't want to hear any more excuses. I won't leave your front door until you agree to come with me to the party tonight," he declared.
Thadea stared at him in exasperation. She felt like slamming the door in his face, but thought better of it. The boy had a broken leg after all, and it would be cruel of her to slam the door on a cripple. She tried again to argue with Jean Luc over the ridiculousness of his request; however, the boy stood at her front door and refused to accept 'no' for an answer. Finally, seeing that there was no reasoning with Jean Luc, Thadea reluctantly agreed to go to the banquet.
At Jean Luc's house that evening…
Thadea sat in the small drawing room adjacent to the solar, where Jean Luc's father and his many guests were discussing business and other important matters. She, Jean Luc, and many of the other younger guests had been ushered into this separate room after the meal had been concluded, so that the adults could talk without disruption.
As she shifted uneasily in her chair, Thadea plucked at the skirts of the blue wool surcoat and tunic which she had borrowed from Jean Luc's mother. Madam Odin was a petite and kindly woman who had generously invited Thadea up to her chambers when she arrived at the house with Jean Luc. She had insisted that Thadea choose the dress she liked best, and had even helped her prepare for the banquet.
Despite the warm demeanor of both mother and son, however, Thadea still felt out of place among the throng of wealthy guests. Although most paid her little attention, she could feel that the other children knew instinctively that she was not one of them. Perhaps it was just her imagination, but she could feel hostility and condescension in their eyes as the looked at her. Therefore, she purposely secluded herself in a corner of the room, away from the other guests.
Thadea glanced around the room, noticing that Jean Luc was standing on the other side being supported by the young man named Michel, whom she had met the day of the accident. He was talking with another young man who she had learned earlier was the son of a spice merchant.
"I heard that there may be war with England soon," a voice declared nearby, catching Thadea's attention. She turned to see a tall girl with dark brown hair talking to three other girls who stood only a few feet away. All four looked to be about her age.
"Don't be silly Jaimie, there isn't going to be a war," one of the other girls scoffed, flipping her light brown hair carelessly over her shoulder. "My father said so."
"Well what does your father know Yvonne?" a third girl with dark, curly hair replied. She turned to the girl who had first spoken. "I heard the same thing just yesterday. Everyone's been saying that peace talks between the English King and King John II have ended."
"I heard that both Tiernan Doumet and Ruiz Hainault were called to Paris not long ago," the fourth girl added. She twirled a strand of curly red hair thoughtfully around her delicate white fingers. "If the Comtes have called their sons to court, there's no doubt that something is amiss."
Thadea felt a lump grow in the pit of her stomach as she listened to the girls talk about the possibility of war between England and France. She remembered what Ruiz had said to her earlier, about being called to fight, and she could feel an overwhelming sense of dread rush over her.
"Well I don't know why we're even bothering to talk about this," the girl named Yvonne stated, "Leave talk of war to the men. I have more interesting things I'd rather think about."
"Such as?" the redheaded girl asked, raising a delicate eyebrow.
"Such as Tiernan Doumet, the handsome future Comte of Champagne!" Yvonne smiled mysteriously at the other three girls, before mentioning casually, "I happened to run into him not too long ago…probably just before he left for Paris. I spoke with him for quite some time…"
Thadea started in surprise at the mention of Tiernan Doumet. She stared at the girl named Yvonne with interest, unsure of what to make of her relationship with Tiernan.
"NO!" the girl named Jaimie fairly screamed. "I don't believe it! What did he say to you?"
Yvonne shrugged, "Oh, nothing important really. We just chatted for a while about all sorts of things. As you know my father is the best textile merchant in the county and our family has been supplying the Comte's tailors for years. He remembered me from the last time my father stopped by his house in Provins for his sister's wedding."
"Wow, that was two years ago," the dark, curly haired girl said. "I can't believe he still remembered you! I'm so jealous!"
Yvonne smiled, lifting her chin proudly. "I guess I left quite an impression with him the last time."
Thadea felt a small stab of annoyance at Yvonne's demeanor. "She's certainly full of herself," she muttered under her breath.
Thadea watched as Yvonne then glanced over at the red headed girl with a look of triumph on her face, "You're rather quiet all of a sudden Sadrina. Is something bothering you?" she asked with false concern.
The girl named Sadrina sniffed, turning away from Yvonne. "I don't know why you're getting so excited Yvonne. He just talked to you. It's not like he asked you to marry him."
Yvonne glared at her in obvious resentment. "Well at least he talks to me," she stated coldly. "That's more than I can say for you."
"That's just because I haven't been chasing after him like you have," Sadrina snapped back angrily.
"Oh please, don't lie Sadrina," the dark, curly haired girl cut in. "You show up at every function that Tiernan Doumet attends hoping to get close to him. I've seen you so don't even pretend you don't know what I'm talking about."
"Although can you really blame her?" Jaimie said. "I don't think there's a girl in this county who's not chasing after Tiernan Doumet. He's the perfect catch."
"Any of the other F4 wouldn't make a bad husband either," Yvonne mused, laughing.
Thadea shook her head as she listened to the four girls. Her head was spinning from the new revelations that were emerging from this conversation. She had never noticed before just how desirable Tiernan Doumet was to other women, even though it should have been obvious based on his money and his looks. "I guess I've spent so much time resenting him that I never saw his better qualities," she realized.
"You girls are all fools!" Jean Luc yelled, snapping Thadea out of her thoughts. She turned to see Jean Luc standing between the four girls, an angry scowl on his face.
"Oh calm down Jean Luc, this conversation doesn't concern you," the girl named Yvonne snapped. "Just because you're jealous of Tiernan Doumet doesn't mean that…"
"Jealous? Jealous of him? You must be joking!" Jean Luc laughed harshly. "Why would I be jealous of that moronic, barbaric imbecile?"
"How dare you talk about Tiernan Doumet like that!" the girl named Sadrina cried. "I won't allow you to insult him!"
"Why are you defending someone who doesn't even know you're alive?" Jean Luc demanded. "You're a fool Sadrina Santerre for loving a man like Tiernan Doumet. He's cruel, heartless, and…"
"You shouldn't say such things about someone you don't know Jean Luc," Thadea said heatedly, breaking into the conversation. She had gotten up from her chair and was now standing in front of the small group. She had no idea why she was defending Tiernan Doumet, but for some reason, she was angry to hear him being insulted like this.
Jean Luc stared at her, surprised by her sudden outburst. Then, his face darkened. "And I suppose you are in love with him too Thadea? I would have expected better from you."
Thadea flushed indignantly at Jean Luc's suggestion. "No, I'm not in love with him!" she stated defensively, "I just don't think he is as bad as you're making him out to be."
"Oh really?" Jean Luc said with a short laugh. "I am the only one who understands what he is really truly like." He looked straight into Thadea's eyes, and she winced at the intensity behind his gaze. "Four years ago," he said quietly, "Tiernan Doumet had my brother imprisoned for 'speaking rudely' to him. He died only a few months later in a dark, stank prison from illness and malnourishment. We weren't even allowed to see him that entire time he was imprisoned. My brother's death broke my mother's heart…and mine as well." Jean Luc closed his eyes as he remembered the pain of his loss. "My family has not been the same since. So forgive me, if I hold no affection for Tiernan Doumet."
"Please Jean Luc, it's about time you let that go," Yvonne stated coldly, turning away from him. She seemed little affected by the story and did not bother to give Thadea a second glance either. "Come on Jaimie, Erika. Let's go out onto the balcony. I need some fresh air."
The other two girls followed Yvonne wordlessly out of the room, while Sadrina Santerre stayed.
"I know how much you loved your brother Jean Luc," Sadrina said quietly, "but it doesn't change how I feel about Tiernan Doumet." With that, she turned away and walked over to another group of people on the other side of the room.
Thadea gaped in disbelief at the cold, impervious attitudes of all four girls. How could they react that way to such a tragedy? The lack of compassion they showed was almost inhuman.
"I…I had no idea he did those things Jean Luc," Thadea said quietly, after a long moment of silence. She looked up at him and placed a hand on his shoulder. Jean Luc was leaning against a chair, since Michel had left him to mingle with some other guests. He smiled weakly at Thadea, his eyes shining with unshed tears.
"I…I'm sorry Thadea. I didn't mean to get so intense all of a sudden. I shouldn't have burdened you with this…"
"No, don't apologize," Thadea said honestly, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "I'm glad you told me. I just couldn't believe how cold those girls were to you!"
"I don't care about them," Jean Luc stated dismissively with a look of disdain on his face. "They're nothing but a bunch of empty headed witches whose main goal in life is to get a title and some money." He smiled at Thadea, "Thank God you're nothing like them Thadea. You are so kind and caring…"
Thadea flushed at the compliment, and turned her head away. "You flatter me," she replied awkwardly. Glancing back at Jean Luc, she found that he was staring at her intently, an indiscernible look in his dark eyes. It made her slightly uneasy.
"That's a lovely painting behind you," Thadea said, trying desperately to find something else to talk about. "Who is it?"
Jean Luc glanced behind him. "Oh, that's a portrait of my great grandmother Cecile."
"She's very beautiful. Tell me about her," Thadea replied, trying to move Jean Luc's focus away from her. She had no interest in learning about the woman, but it was at least something else to talk about.
"Oh well…there's so much to tell about great grandmother Cecile…"
As Jean Luc talked, Thadea let her mind wander to Tiernan Doumet. Jean Luc's tragedy had reminded her of all the cruel acts that Tiernan Doumet had committed in the past. With everything that had occurred recently between the two of them, she had lost sight of the person Tiernan Doumet truly was.
"How could I possibly ever have feelings for someone like that," she wondered to herself as she looked at Jean Luc. "How could I ever look past what he has done?" Although a small part of her wanted to believe that Tiernan Doumet had changed, it was hard to forgive all the sins of his past.
End of Chapter 15
Questions? Comments? Suggestions? ANYTHING? EMAIL ME ATdelphigirl. (or at least leave me a review)!
NOTE: In case you guys didn't catch on already, Jean Luc Odinequals Oribe Junpei. Yves, on the other hand, was someone I made up.