The Outlaws of England (Reserved)

[Guest]

It was a time of great morning for the death of the King of England, Richard the Lion Heart. He had died in France trying to regain the lands that he had lost while he was away in the Holy Land on a Crusade. England had suffered much during this time, since King Richard's brother Prince John ruled in his place. John wished power and money and taxed the barons and people heavily. Upon Richard's death, John became King. Many know the tale of Robin Hood and his band of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, but they were not the only outlaws. While Robin Hood and his men harrassed the Sheriff Of Nottingham in the center of England there was another outlaw in the southern part of England, among the more staunch supporters of King John.

Baron Justin Greystone was a man that had recently returned from the Holy Land as Richard the Lion Heart had. But where King Richard had stayed in France to wage war to regain his lands there, Baron Greystone returned to England with his men to control his barony once more. What he saw and heard made him angry at the New King. John had been taxing the people to much and taking everything. But he did not openly defy the new king. He offered his support to him and gave King John some of the treasure he had returned with from his journey home. This put him in the good graces of the New King. But while outwardly supporting the King at court, he was busy trying to undermine him in the southern provences of the south.

It was the year 1199 and only a few months into the Johns Kingship. Justin had traveled from his Barony in the south western provences of England, to the Kings Castle in London. He left his men at the Castle's gate, telling them to enjoy the pleausres of the city while he was attending court. Each and everyone of them were loyal to him and apart of the secret outlaw band that had begun raiding the lands of those loyal to King John. Tax collectors were robbed, grain shipments stolen and livestock taken. All had been redistrubuted to those that had lost something, but never the same that they had lost, except gold. Justin entered the throne room and strode to the throne, going to one knee and bowing before the king. "Your Majesty. Your loyal subject is here at your command."

"Rise Greystone. It is good to see a friendy face here." the king looked about the court. Though there were many loyal to him, bribed with the promise of wealth and land and the death of their enemies or rivals, he realy trusted none of them. The room was filled with women and men from all over England. Even representitives of the barons of the north. This was the begining of John's official rule of England, and it was not a good one. Richard's crusade had cost the treasury much as did his ransome. The king motioned with his hand that Justin was to take his place to the right of the throne. An honored spot for those he held more loyal to him then others.

As Justin moved to his spot he looked about the room at the young ladies of the court. Those that were in attendance of the Queen and those that had come with the other barons and representatives. One in particular caught his eye. She was one of Queen Isabella's ladies in waiting. She was a good looking woman, and no doubt had caught the eye of many of those in the room.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Desiree eyed the stranger enter the throne room. She was standing at the side of the Queen, as her most trusted lady in waiting. The Queen noticed the man looking around and his eyes settle on Desire. Queen Isabella trusted Desiree the most, while the other ladies immetially slipped into gossip and watching the men at court. Desiree sat always at the ready for her. Queen Isabella really liked the fact that Desiree was schooled she could read, write, and knew French, Latin and English. Also knew basic first aid, enough to help with simple achs or sores and help bring in life to this world. And wasn’t intrusted in anyone in court and that was the most important. For she was really a beauty and Isabella was concered the day was appraching that men would come calling. There had been a few that had asked for a dance, and only if Queen Isabella or the King anserwed for her the answer was always the same that she had to stay by her Queens side. But there was something about the man that just entered the Queen felt it.

Meanwhile Desiree kept her eyes on him, but alert to her Queens needs. She also noticed the King looking around. Licking her lips she watched as he eyed the crowd. It seemed like he knew that not many people liked him, and most that said they did only did because John gave them gold, gold which was stolen from the starving people. She watched silently as the man bowed before him. Piting the poor fellow for being so stupid to not to know that his King the one he was bowing before was a evil excuse for a human being. As he sat beside him Desiree knelt down before her Queen “How are you doing mi-lady” The Queen smiled “No my child” Desiree curtsied and stood again.

At 17 Desiree had develpoed into a really beautiful woman. Her hair was the colour of a sunset, blonde, mixed with red hues. Fell nearly to her tail bone, almost always in one big braid down the back of her head. She was tall and as many of the men whispered as she walked but she was nearly all legs. She had a nice big neck. And long eyelashes, her eyes a greeny blue. The colour of the ocean. She was the furthest thing from vain though, blushing at every compliment that was given to her. She lived to serve her Queen. And even though John had begun to give her advancses. But luckily he had not demanded anything yet.

Desiree hated John for what he was doing to the people , many starving to death while John had parties and feasts. For his friends, as he stole from the poor to make the rich richer. She had hear rumors of revolts but she wasn’t sure it that could be trusted. Rumors had been floating around for awhile, but Desiree never liked to get her hopes too high.

Desiree had had hard life as a child her mother had died shortly after she gave Desiree life, not proper care after she was born. She was raised by her father. A wealthy man that always made everyone had something. She had fond memories of their castle being full at Christmas time with the village folk each child getting something, a gold coin or something. She loved her father, and he was her world. Until that day, the day that their castle was attacked, and she witnessed her father die.

It could have been like anyday, but the scouts had alearted them of a threat so she was ushered inside and surronded by gaurds. But when the shouting came and her fathers name was called out she ran out the doors intime to see people, most on horse backs running around setting fires to anything that would catch fire. She was finally spotted and suddenly grabbed. She cried out but her gaurds were captive too. She was certain now that she would be sold into slavery. But suddenly there were more horses. Desriee could hardly hear them, only a small child barely 5 she was crying for her father. But the men held her hard. She was fighting hard but really was no match for grown men.

Everything was a blur the tears were falling down her face. The monsters made her watch as they stabbed her father over and over again. It was then that a shower of arrows came down. Hitting the gaurds stabbing her father, and the ones holding her and even the ones holding her gaurds although she was hit in the arm she still raced forward to her father falling down beside him and even though he was dead she continue to hold him and weep.

The men took pity on this child crying, and the gaurds knowing that there was nothing they could do, they couldn’t provide or protect her, she needed a home. Knelt down and looked at her. “Listen Dessiree you are going to go with these people, we will come too and see if we are needed.” Desiree was distraught. It was then that the men realized who was walking towards them, their King Richard they all bowed. The King came to the child that just had her life ripped apart and took pity on her. Turning to her gaurds “Please pack up a few of her trinkets and follow us, she will become a ward of the King” Her gaurds quickly did his bidding and the King knelt down and rubbed her back. She was too distraught to even feel it. Shortly after her gaurds returned with a saddle bag. The King picked her up and carried her. Desiree had cried herself into exhaustion and could no longer cry but her eyes were swollen and she was sullen.

So that’s how it started, or at least the way she remembered it, it had been a long time. But under Richards car she learned Latin, English, French and how to read and write each of those, also because of the way her mother died she requested and of course had been granted basic medical training, how to help a baby come into the world and what to do after. Richard doted on her and even trained her in a bow and arrow and how to ride a horse. But when he went on his cursades John made her into a servant, but she was able to ask him to become a lady in waiting. To which John immeditally agreed too. He liked the fact that she would be working close to him, well at least the Queen.

Even though she had been lost in thought she was fully attentive to what her Queen needed. But there was something about that stranger that intrigued her, purhapes it was the way he was staring at her. So to make it interesting she smiled at him. But remained at her Queens side, many were dancing but unless she was asked Dessree would be staying here.


(Figured thats the way she remembere but purhapes not really what happened))

[Guest]

Justin had just returned from robbing one of the Kings's tax collectors. Some of his men were now distriubting the ill gotten goods to those that needed them through out the various baronies in the south. He enjoyed his life as the outlaw only known as the Highwayman. He kept his face covered with a black scarf and a large brimed black hat covered the top of his head. Only his eyes showed for the most part. He was kind and gentlemanly towards the noble and rich ladies he robbed and loved to toy with the usually fat and blusterly noble men. They would always spout out how he would pay for his crimes, and cower when presented the point of his sword. Some he offered the chance to take him on with their swords. Most declined making up excuses. Those that did take up the challange soon found themselves bleeding from a number of minor wounds that could have been fatal.

The tax collectors he enjoyed the most robbing. They would give a good fight to defend what they had wrongfully taken from the people. When he sent them packing he knew they would not have a very good reception when they returned empty handed. As he looked around the room he saw a few of the nobles he had robbed. Some he had done so in thier own lands as they rode about inspecting their holdings and demanding to be waited on hand and foot. Here he stood amongest them and they had no idea that it was he that had taken their gold and jewels.

He noticed the woman standing by the Queen looking at him and smiling at him. He leaned down and whispered to the King. "Your grace, if I may be so bold as to ask the name of that lovely young woman standing next to the Queen."

John looked at Justin and then over at the woman and he grinned. "Ahhhh you have an eye for the ladies my friend. That would be my lovely queens must trusted lady in waiting and the ward of the Court, Desiree. " he paused a moment and again looked at Justin and he chuckled. "I detect that you have an intrest in that one." he sighed, "Forget her, I don't thing she has the desire to be with a man." Knowing the King, he had probably tried and failed with her, which made Desiree even more desireable.

Justin grinned and chuckled lightly, "Interesting, your magisty, but if it would please you, might you introduce her to me. You kow how I love a good challange." The king laughed and shugged his shoulders.

He turned to his wife and queen, "My dear, our friend and loyal Barron Graystone wishes to be introduced to your Lady in Waiting here." he nodded to Desiree. The queen looked at Justin and then at Desiree. She had been approached on serveral occasions by various nobles and rich men to be introduced to Desiree, but she had found them all unsuitable for her. But this one, now he looked handsome and from what her husband had told her of him, was well off and a loyal supporter. She smiled and said, "Desiree, this is the Baron Justin of Greystone." Turning to Justin, "Barron this is my most trusted Lady in Waiting Desiree."

Justin gave a slight bow, keeping his eye on Desiree. "A pleasure my lady."

It was then that the doors opened and a messenger hurried in. He came to the botton of the steps leading up to the thrones. "Your magesty! Word has come that the tax collectors from Wesex has been attacked and robbed by The Highwayman." John's face grew red with anger and he pounded his fist on the arm of his throne. "Is there no end to this blaten attack on the throne. These brigians, Robin of the Hood in the north and this Highwayman in the south, is there nothing to stop them." he yelled out.

Justin had to contain a smile. "Aye my King this brigands need to pay for their transgresions. It seems that the Shierffs of these areas are not doing their jobs by seeking them out and bringing them to justice. If they can not handle the job then perhaps they need to be replaced and given more men to deal with them." he said softly to the king. Justin knew that replacing the Shierffs of thes lands would no doubt make some uncomfortable since most were taking bribes from the nobles to send part of the taxes collected to them.

John leaned back in his thone still sheathing with anger. He nodded his head thinking over what Justin had said. He looked over at Justin, and reached out and placed a hand on one of Justin's arms. "Always the clear headed one. You are a true and good advisor my friend." He stood and ordered the court cleared and his scribe sent for. Turning to his wife, "Perhaps Desiree would not mind keeping our friend here company while I attend to some business." Taking his wife's arm he lead her away leaving Justin and Desiree alone in the room.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Even though she could feel the new guy eyes on her. She held her head high and ignored him. After the respectful smile it fadded. He was a supporter of John, so in her eyes he was just as bad as the ones doing all of the robbing of the poor people. King Richard would have never let this happen. Dessiree set her jaw, no point getting angry, it wasn’t proper nor was it going to accomplish anything. Even though she hated to admit it, John was king now, but in her heart he a was a phony King and she hoped that death would be long and painful for him, but she also didn’t want him in power for long ,the people suffered too much with him, they were starving. Dessriee was brave though, for when he was away she would sneek food to the people, she wish she could do more, but gold would just be stolen from them. So she snuck what she could, bread cheeses, fruit. What she could.

Her attention quickly was drawn to the Throne of the fake King as he chuckled the way that the man was looking at her they were for sure talking about her. She stiffened she didn’t want to be left alone with this man, and she was certain that is what would happen. When the king ordered her Queen to introduce her. When they were introduced Desriee curtised but her eyes bore into his a fire touch me and die kind of look filled them. “Pleasure Baron” She said sweetly but kept her deadly look in her eyes. She had not incliation to be married. She wanted to serve her Queen, and then maybe enter the nunnery, after almost being rapped she had a almost fear of men and being alone with them, only Richard knew the extent of what she had been through and now he was dead.

Thankfully the door burst open and she raised. She couldn’t help but over hear what they were talking about and she couldn’t help but smile. But quickly whipped it from her face. And made her face serious. She looked at the Baron and backed away to stand next to her Queen again. She couldn’t barely belive her ears, the rumors were true there were people, tryingto help the poor she was over joyed but kept it inside straight faced and pretended that she didn’t understand what was happening

When the King made his comment although she was dreading it she bowed respectfuly “Of course your majasety” Although her eyes told an other story. She curstied to her Queen then turned to the Baron and curtised to him. “Good evening Baron” She eyed the gaurds, she may just be a lady in waiting but she was also a ward of the castle and if anythiing happened to her she would be protected. She looked the Baron over then back up to his face. There wasn’t much to this man, a brainless fool playng for the monster John, she was disgusted in him but did a very good job at hidding it. She wondered what he wanted with her.

[Guest]

He could see by the look in her eyes that she detested John and any that supported him. When the messenger made his report he could not help be see the smile on her lips that faded as rapidly as it had appeared. She had no love for John that was for sure and made her even more desireable, and a possible source of information. He figured John confided everything to his wife and of course she would probably talk to her most trusted Ladies about matters that bothered her husband. This information might be useful, especially if he could get good information about tax collectors, the other barons, or any really good information that could help him make John's life misserable and hopefully his time as king as short as possible.


But it seemed that Desiree was wanting to leave. Now that would not be a good thing, nor anyway for him to strike up any kind of relation ship. He was about to say something when John turned and said. "Desiree, why don't you keep Baron Greystone company while the Queen and I discuss matters of import." He looked at his wife and she turned and gave Desiree a pleading look.

Justin moved forward to stand next to Desiree, and offered her his hand. Justin had heard about Desiree from Richard. He had talked about his ward and knew that her father had been a very loyal noble to Richard and had done his utmost to protect his lands in France. "Well now I have heard your name before. King Richard, spoke about you often while we were in the holy land together." he gave her a charming smile, "He was always on the look out for someone that would make you a good husband. But it seemed that he never found one with just quite the right combination of qualities."

[Xuxa_Rene]

Giving one last look to her Queen, Desiree clenched her jaw and straightened her back. And then she turned to the Baron who suddenly appeared next to her. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes skyward and instead put on her sweet smile. She gave him her hand. John had asked her too keep him company so she would do as she was told. As much as being in the same room as this man was making her skin crawl. How she missed King Richard, John hadn’t even allowed her to mourn properly. She hated him, more then anything, Well other then the men that killed her family and attempted to kill her.

She turned to Justin, She still didn’t trust this man, she didn’t trust any supporter of John, now the Highwayman that would be someone she would like to meet, someone that was actually doing good in this land right now, and not starving the people. She would shake with anger if she thought of it too much and she was suppose to be keeping this man company. So with great resolve she went to give her attention back to him with dread and hoping it ended quickly. She needed to get back to her Queen to tend to her.

But suddenly he had her full attention. “King Richard spoke of me?” She asked not even realizing that she called Richard “King” but even if he was dead he was stillthe king and he would always be. She turned to look at him. “Please Sir” She actually pleaded “Tell me what did my dear King say” She wanted to know, how much of her life did he tell this Man, there was so much about her childhood that she didn’t fully remember, the nightmares still woke her up almost every night. She then shook her head at the mention of a husband. Walked out of his hand and down the stairs. She walked to a window an held out her hand, a little bird landed on her finger and she pulled out a piece of bread from her pocket. “Do you know that if you cage a wild bird it will pick at itself till it has pulled out all it feathers, and kill itself.” She then released the bird out the window. “King Richard knew that it would take a special man to take me away from my post here and now that he is dead well King John…” She trailed off she was going to say that she feared that King John would marry her to the highest bidder, going against her protection that was given to her since she was a ward of the Castle.

Instead she turned to the Baron “But please Sir, What did King Richard tell you of me, I would really like to know” She had walked back to him and curtsied again “Unless of course the Baron would like to do something else, King John gave me for your company” She looked up at him confused on why she was suddenly so trusting of this man, as if what he told her would be the truth, he was probably just another suitor trying to buy her hand. But she needed to know what King Richard had told him, maybe she would have more insight to her life she was grasping at straws for anything to fill the gaping hole that Richards death had left her with.

[Guest]

He had her attenion now. She wanted to know what Richard had told him about her. He had left England with his father, the Baron of Greystone and joined King Richard on his crusade to the Holy Land. For ten years he was gone from his home, from England. He had grown into manhood and had fought in many battles along side his father and King Richard. When his father died in battle, he became the Baron of Greystone at the age of sixteen. The next four years he was in on King Richard's council and had dined with him many times. He had spoke of Desiree's father and of her.

When she went to the window and a bird landed on her hand, she fed it a piece of bread and then let it be on her way. He smiled at this. Animals had a sence about people and it seemed this one senced her kindness and her desire not to hurt it. He moved to the window and looked out at the countryside. "That is true in some instances, but it depends on the one that keeps them. If you show it love and kindness, let it out to see the world with you, protect it from its enemies, they will live and thrive. But if you ignore them and keep them caged all the time, they will wither and die."

When asked about what Richard said about her he leaned against the wall near the window. "He told me of your father. A great and noble man he was in France. He supported Richard, turning away those that would try to turn him against his King. That one noble envied him and did everything he could to steal your father's land from him. But your father was no fool and foiled every attempt. But your father was not able to stop the noble's attack on his castle." he watched her to see what her reaction would be. When this all happened he was but a young lad himself. He was perhaps only a couple years older then she was. Justin had listened intently to what Richard had to say. At times he had no idea why he confided so much in him, telling him stories of people like Desiree's father and those that were his enemies. Perhaps they had been lessons in how to deal with people, things that he would need to know now that he was the Baron of Greystone.

"He spoke of taking you into his house as a ward of the court so that perhaps some day you might be able to return home and claim what is rightfully yours. I think that is why he was always searching for the right man for you, to see to it that he. who would wed you would not be doing it just to gain the lands that rightfully belong to you." he wondered if she even knew that she had some of the best farm land in France. It had come under the protection of Richard, and now that he was dead John. "He seemed to talk about you as if you were his daughter. Prhaps he thought of you as such."

[Xuxa_Rene]

As soon as he moved nearer to her Desiree moved too, in all honesty she didn’t want a supporter of John near her. Knowing John this was a trap, she didn’t know how or why but surely this was a trap, why would John take away his wife most trusted lady, to keep this man company when any of the other ladies could have kept this baron company. But the deed had fallen on her, so she would have to play the good host, but that didn’t mean that she would have to enjoy it. But she did have to admit she was interested in hearing about her father, she remembered so little, and although Richard tried to keep his memory alive in her he didn’t know that much about her father either. When he responded to her answer she held her head high but showed no other reaction like a proper woman. And decided to play on the bird thing they had going. “Still birds belong in the wild, some were distend for other things.”

She stepped back again and folded her arms in front of her and pinched her lips she looked at him, keeping sweet, but she held no smile, she really didn’t trust this Baron he had motives, she was really thinking that John had sent him to her to test her to see if she was loyal to him. She of course wasn’t to him, but to his wife, her Queen, but if that got out it would mean certain death. She hid the fact, but was always on high alert for tests, she never told anyone, she had cried in the beginning with the Queen, but she thought that she was crying over the loss of a father figure, that had been partly true but she was also crying over the loss of the King, and how her loyalty was excepted to automatically switch over to John.

When he began to talk about her father Desiree couldn’t help but give him her entire attention she licked her lips and stood while he spoke, she was used to standing nonstop so standing while he told a story was nothing new. She politely and silently listened, as would be excepted of her she knew what he was telling her so far, Richard had made sure that she knew her father had died a hero death. She smiled as he told her that Richard talked about her and being a ward. She was also grateful that he didn’t seem to know about how they had turned on her and nearly rapped her before the bastards where killed.

Suddenly when he mentioned the land Desree turned her head to glare at him, so that was it! King John wanted to see if she would abaonded him and her Queen to take ownership of the land. Showing no reaction but a little twitch in her jaw she shook her head “Any land that my father owned belonged to King Richard, and now” She paused “With his passing the land now belongs to King John” She raised an eyebrow as if daring him to test her again.

Her jaw tightened again as she fought back the tears when he said that the King saw her as a daughter. But again too worried that the Baron was a test from John she held them back and her head eye, but managed to look through him. “King Richard saved me, I am forever in his and this courts debt” But it was more then that she loved King Richard, and detested John, she would hope that someone would poison him. But that was heresy to even think that so she hid all hatred for him, not wanting to die.

[Guest]

Justin watched her as he talked, noting her body language. He had learned in the holy land to do such things. It could mean life or death. The way she held herself, her folded her arms and pressed her lips together told him that she did not trust him. But he knew she believed him when he spoke of her father, from the smile that formed on her lips. But when he mentioned her lands she turned and glared at him. He could tell that she probably thought he was testing her, and that he was. To see if she had any loyalty to John at all. Everything about her stance was defient and defensive. He knew she had no love for John.

Yet he could not take any chances on letting anyone else know of his secret life. Her land was one of those that gave much gold to John, from the abundent crops sold and the taxes the people had to pay, and heavy were those taxes. "Well I suppose that King John enjoys the gold that he gets from having most of the crops sold and the taxes he has imposed on the people there." he said. "But like you said it belongs to the King. But lets us talk of other matters. Shall we go down to the gardens and enjoy the fresh air?" he again offered her his hand and bowed slightly. But before she could respond one of his men entered the room and hurried to him and whispered in his ear.

Again he bowed to her, "Forgive me, but I must go. An urgent matter has come up and I must be on my way." he took her right hand and kissed the back of it lightly. On his right hand one could see a small scar between the thumb and the forefinger. "I hope we can talk more another time." he looked up into her eyes, his green eyes twinkling with mischief, before he turned and followed his man out.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Inside her heart was breaking, she still missed her father, she barely remembered him but still the pain of losing him still rang true. She did her best to hide it though, longing for her father might be seen as unhappiness of her life now and with the fire cracker that John was she could end up headless, or being burned being found guilty of heresy. So she had no choice but to keep all her emotions to herself and not show how much her heart was breaking.

Desiree stiffened her jaw clenched to the point of hurting as he continued, She wanted to lash out, but she could not she had to keep up the façade to save her neck but she was fuming. John was overtaxing the people, her land, the land that Richard had saved for her, of course the people paid taxes but they were not over taxed, the majority of the food stayed to feed the people, but now it seemed like John was ravishing her people, but still she held her head eye her eyes glinted with tears but she would not let them fall. She had failed and her father would be so disappointed in her, so would King Richard.

She really did not want to spend any more time with the Baron, but some fresh air in the Garden so she smiled sweetly. She did wonder if King Richard told him anything about her passed, why she couldn’t remember much of that day. She remembered the people in the castle trying to hold her back, but the castle being attacked, and she remembered watching father dying. And then her being grabbed and then her captives falling but everything went black after that.

When the messenger rushed in she curtsied and stepped back to let the men talk. She was slightly disappointed when he told her that he had to go. She stared into his eyes she noticed how deep they were she could get lost in them, and she would always remember them. but when he brought up his hand to kiss it she noticed the scar. She wanted to ask him, but not only would it be far from appropriate but he left the room too quickly. She curtsied as he left. And walked to the window to watch him leave. Shaking her had she sighed. When would these tests stop?
Walking to her Queens quarters she looked around to see if her Queen would be there.

[Guest]

Justin was quickly met by several of his men as he left the castle and entered the city. With in a very short time he was riding hard through the city and out into the countryside. It was time once again for the Highwayman. It seed that John was having troubles with the Church as well and had sent men out to plunder the village churches. Now he could not let this happen. Even though Justin did not like the way the church did things at times, there were those priests that genuinely tried to help the people and teach them how to read and write. They were a great comfort to the people in times like the ones he found himself in.

Once atired in pure black, with a scarf covering the lower portion of his face and the hood of his cloak covering his head and darkening the features of his upper face, he set the trap for the thieves. It was not long before the wagon carrying the loot was ambling down the road towards London with an armed escort. Justin sprang from the trees that lined the road before the wagon and horses, his sword drawn. The driver of the wagon instinctively pulled back on the reigns stopping the horses. "My, my, now didn't you know robbing from the church is a sin?" he mocked them.

The armed escort rode around the wagon, their captain a bit forward. "Surrender or die." he said in a distasteful manner. Justin only chuckled and raised his left hand. Instantly the wagon and guards were surrounded by his men, each with a bow in hand with knocked arrows and the string pulled back. Each man had a guard in their sights along the shaft of the arrows.

"I think it is you that should surrender sir." Justin laughed. "My men are excellent shots and at this range will not miss." The captain looked around snarled and then threw his sword down to the ground and his men followed suit. "Now dismount and begin walking back to London." The men began walking and one of Justin's men got up on the wagon and turned it around. Another grabbed the reigns of the horses and lead them away. They were fine horses and only those with money could aford such quality ones. It was a shame to do so, but after a while Justin had to send them packing back home. He knew that they would return to their stables, for they were well trained horses.

The rest of the day was spent returning the stolen goods. But not directly to the church. His men would find a peasent and have him or her go get the priest and once the priest arrived Justin/The Highwayman would have the priest take what was stolen from his church. The priests were thankful and with tearful eyes reclaimed what was taken from thier church. One, a fat and young priest shook his head as he chuckled. "Now never would I have thought a thief would bring back something that another had stolen. Bless you my son. You have done a great deed for God and he will surely reward you."

"Well Father I think he already has in some ways." Justin smiled behind the scarf. Him and his men left and Justin returned to London. News of the incident was reported to the King the next day and one could hear him yelling and screaming throughout the castle. Justin grinned, but was sober faced when he saw the King. John was in such a mood that the Queen suggested that they go to the country estate and do a bit of hunting. John perked up at that and arranged for an advanced party to go and insure all was made ready for his arrival. The Queen informed Desiree that she would go and make sure all was in proper order.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Although the Baron was surely a spy sent to test her she still couldn’t get him out of her mind. The piecing green eyes, that damned scar. She was growing angry with herself and angry with him. Damn him for telling her about her land when he knew there was nothing that she could do to protect or help the people on the land, she could have and would have gone to King Richard to voice her concerns, but John was not approachable knowing him he would slaughter the people for complaining so although it killed her on the inside she had to keep sweet and not show any hint of emotion.

She went around her duties, turning down the bed for her Queen, the King it seemed would not be joining her in bed so that meant Desiree would be sitting beside her throughout the night, she would talk and sew and knit with the Queen then once the Queen was asleep she would sit in the chair and keep watch she would not sleep tonight, but Desiree did fine without sleep.

In the morning the yells and screaming from John rattled everyone in the castle it seemed that the people called the highwaymen robbed some of Johns people who had taken taxes from church Desiree knew that there was more to the story then that, John more then likely had ordered the churches to be stripped. She was worried though last time John was like this people were beheaded. And he had gotten drunk and it was only by pure luck that someone had walked in, John had been begging Desiree to join him in his chambers. With all that and more considered Desiree was all the more pleased when the Queen suggested that they go to country estate. Normally that meant that Desiree would go first air it out and prepare it.

Like all the other times the Queen requested her to go first so with a curtsy Desiree prepared the coaches then with another curtsy she entered the coach she was alone so closed her eyes. She knew that there was a chance that someone would join her for safty but another chance that should be left alone, for she was the Queens most trusted lady in waiting, but after being up all night she was exhausted and the rocking of the carriage eventually eased her to sleep.

Her dreams were not good ones though she was reliving that day. The screams of the people the guards trying to hold her back trying to protect her, the screams as they were cut down. Her running outside and seeing her father die, then the men grabbing her. She woke with a start dripping in sweat and her breathing igurlar., finally realizing where she was she leaned her head against the wall of carriage, it was still a long way to go. She of course had no idea that they were layed with, she assumed lots, but in her carriage where just small bags of gold that the Queen had entrusted to her to give to the village people to try and gain favour with the King.

Desiree sighed, her thoughts drifted to the Baron again, why was he on her mind so much? It was driving her mad, her place was with her Queen, and even if she was rightful heir to that land, it belonged to the King now. Even if she did have a right to the land trying to claim it would be seen as treason Damn the Baron, she was fine until he came along. But why was she angry? Was she angry because she couldn’t protect the people on her land, or that she was forced to continue to pretend she was loyal to John? She didn’t know, she was still tired so she closed her eyes again and tried to escape her own thoughts for a few more hours.

[Guest]

Justin had returned to London and in the morning had heard all about what went on in the castle from a couple of the servents. Him and his men had taken up rooms at a fairly good establishment and had feasted and drank late into the early morning. The news about how John reacted brought a smile to Justin's lips. He would drive the man insane if nothing else. He would slip up and one day someone would rid the country of him. The servents also talked about the King and Queen going out to the country estate for some hunting. Mainly to get John's mind off of what had been happening, was Justin's thoughts. The Queen loved the man, but why he could not fathom. She must have saw something in him that made her fall in love with him.

But a trip to the country estate would mean that there would be those going to post guards, secure the place and clean it up and make it ready for the King and Queen. Also that ment that there would be riches going as well. Oh what better way to really get under King John's skin then to rob him again. They had no sleep but they would be able to travel fast and far before those going would be ready to leave. They would get some sleep before the entorage got to the spot they would select to rob it.

Besides Desiree's carriage, there was a detachment of soldiers and a couple other carriages as well, taking a fat and boisterious barron that wanted to see about some early hunting. With him was his wife and a couple of his guards. In the other carriage was a few servents that would get the place ready.

It was hours later and Justin and his men finally found the spot they would set their trap. By the time that the carriages rolled out of London, they were catching a few hours sleep. By the time the carriages arrived it was the next morning and Justin and his men were all ready for the fun that was going to ensue. Again as the first carriage approached, half the soldiers riding behind it and before the second and the rest between the second and third carriage. Justin and his men had cut a tree down and moved it to block the road. As the carriages slowed and came to a stop, Justin hoped up on to the trunk of the tree in his Highwaman garb, sword drawn. "Lay down your weapons and none will be harmed." he called out in a jolly tone. Instantly his men were up, bows at the ready before the soldiers could respond. They threw down their weapons and then Justin moved forward and opened the first carriage's door. He was a bit shocked that Desiree was in it, but he did not let that deter him. A couple of his men ushered out the Baron and his wife and the servents and began looking in the carriages and taking out things.

He gave Desiree a bow and offered her his hand to exit the carriage. "Ahhhhh such a beautiful lady in the mist of such obnoxious company." he nodded to the Baron, who he knew and who had on several occasions had boldly said that he wished he could have the point of his sword at the Highwayman. That he would show him a thing or two if he could. Looking in the carriage he spotted the bags of gold and chuckled. "Ah and you bring gifts." he said and looked at Desiree.

[Xuxa_Rene]

The rocking of the carriage lulled Desiree to sleep again. This was the worst part of her service, all the traveling and alone she hated to be alone, but it was better then traveling with John. Traveling with him and him always eying her, she hated it and she was lucky that The Queen understood and didn’t hold it against her. Life was better with King Richard ruling, Desiree had someone to talk to, to go to if she was having a rough time and King Richard made sure she kept her learning up even while serving, John forbade her to continue but when ever he was away the Queen would go behind his back and see to it. But with the way John was leading the country Desiree was fearful everyday. She could only fake her loyalty for so long then what?

Desiree was sleeping on her side with only a small cloak that Richard had given her when she turned 15 when the carriage suddenly stopped she sat up and rubbed her eyes, yawning and stretching. She heard voices and began to get scared, it was the highwaymen she looked down at the bags of gold they would steal them, but not if she could explain herself and them to explain that the Queen gave them to her with out John’s knowledge that they were to go to the poor near the cottage that’s all. If only she would have a chance to explain herself. She heard the leader call out, and she could swear that she had heard the voice before. The footsteps and her heart was beating quicker, the people this gold was going to really needed it, would they understand would they care?

When the door open she stared at the man and his hand she did not want to take it she wanted to push it away but for her to have a chance to explain herself she would have to play it sweet, so she took it with a smile. Then her back to the group she looked up at him and whispered “Please Sir, no one but me and my Queen know about that gold, it is for the poor people of the land we are heading too” She looked up at him her big blue eyes pleading with him. Then she nodded “But do has you will” She then stepped away from him and feigned fear. But just moments away she had spoken with assertiveness and strength but she did not want to be charged with heresy, as it seemed everyone was being charged with now.

[Guest]

Justin listened to her and smiled. She cared about the people, which set her on the opposite side of John. He chuckled and looked back at the bags of gold in the carriage. Either way the gold would reach the people. As Desiree moved away from him he turned to the Baron. Walking slowly towards the man, he could see the fear in his eyes, Justin could almost smell the fear. The man was sweating profusely as he finally stood before him. "Well now, if it is not the Baron of Kent. I have heard that it would give you great pleasure to have me at the end of your sword."

Justin stepped back a couple paces. "Here is your opportunity. Draw your sword and teach me a lesson." Behind the black cloth that covered his lower face Justin grinned as he waited for the Baron's response. He could see the Baron turning shades of red and scarlet, from anger and embarsement. "Ahhhhhh I see that you ment having me at the end of your sword with out me having one, and you having a number of armed men at your back." He moved forward again and stood close to the Baron. The Baron was shaking with fear now, thinking he would be murdered. But instead Justin removed the necklace about his neck that was encrusted with prescious stones, his rings and the jewlery from his wife.

"These will fetch a pretty price and I thank you for your donations." he laughed. He then walked back to Desiree, removing the glove from his right hand, after sheathing his sword. Taking her right hand in his he lifted it to his lips and kissed the back of her hand and then turning her hand kissed it's palm. "Such a lovely lady should not be traveling with the likes of the Baron." he whispered. Then he turned and signaled his men. They had gathered the weapons from the guards and soldiers and soon they had melted into the forest.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Trying to control her shaking she kept her head down. She had to hide her smile she was happy that John was being robbed again. He deserved it throwing lavish parties while the people starved. She hated John but this man, or men who did the robbing that seemed to care about the people. She was still nervous though, would he kidnap her? The stories that John told her, that the highwaymen raped women and murdered babies. But Desiree never believed such stories and this proved it. The men with arrows could have cut them all down and she was a seemly weak woman and no one was coming in for her. So surely these men were not the monsters that John portrayed them, he was just angry because they stole from him.

Desiree lifted her eyes slightly to watch what was unfolding in front of her. She had to bite the inside of her check to stop herself from laughing. The baron who had been a boisterous man, loudly announcing what he would do if he ever ran into the highwaymen was shaking in his boots, it seemed like a gust of wind could knock him over. She watched both him and his wife be stripped of their jewelry. She didn’t like either of them either they were both too high on themselves also like John thought the poor owed them something.

When he came back to her she swallowed hard, maybe this is when he was going to take her captive, she was about to tell him that John wouldn’t pay any ransom to get her back when he removed his glove to kiss her hand. She gasped slightly at the sight of the scar and looked up at him. But didn’t say anything she wanted to keep his secret. She looked up at him and whiserperd “The King and Queen shall be coming shortly we are going to the summer cottage, John is a bit upset about the robbering” She wasn’t sure if he heard any of it, he seemed to be busy singling the men” Then louder to fool the others. “My service is too the Queen and The King, they ordered me to come so I did” She then watched them disappear and quickly got into the carriage, grateful that the Queen had ordered the guards that she be alone in the carriage at all times.

Once inside the carriage she laid her head against the wall and brought a hand to her face. How could it be so? He was a supporter of John, he was a jerk. Her eyes went big, how she had thought of him at the castle. She swallowed hard, she needed to get alone needed the carriage to start moving so they could get to the collage she needed to be with the people to get the gold out to the people and to figure out her heart now. If the man she had met in the castle was an outlaw, then she had shown him support for John when she really had none she was just trying to save her neck but would he see it? Or would he think she was greedy like all the others? What confused her more, why did she care?

[Guest]

Justin and his men made their way back to London. He knew that the King would take a couple days to get ready to leave. To give the servents time to prepare things at the estate. That would give him time to get back clean up and perhaps even accompany him back to the estate for a bit of hunting. He wanted to be there when the servents and soldiers told him of the attack on their carriages. It would drive him even more crazy. But he had to explain his absence from the court.

He already had a story made up. That he had to leave to deal with a thief that had called himself the Highwayman, but had only been a meanial thief that he quickly had tried and hanged. John would like that. Once back at the castle, he made his report to the King, who indeed liked what Justin had said he had done. "That will be the fate of the real Highwayman when he is caught." John told him. "Now my friend you must come with me to the country estate. I need someone there that I can talk to that is not a fool."

Justin bowed and said, "It would be an honor sire." When he was able to get away from the king he sought out his bed in his quarters and slept. The next two days were busy packing for the trip and it was a large and well guarded train. Carriages and waggons, guards, dogs and the like. With that large of group it would take them a couple days to move them all to the Country Estate. Those two days were uneventful and a bit relaxing for Justin. Finally they arrived. The King and Queen disembarked from their carriage and entered the manor house. Justin dismounted from his horse and entered shortly after, wanting to see what John's reaction was to what he had done a few days earlier. As he walked in he saw Desiree. He wondered if he would have some time to spend with her.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Eventually the guards cleared the path of the tree and they were on their way again. Desiree allowed herself to fall asleep, oddly feeling safer knowing that the highway men as they were called were lurking in the woods, and if the scar was the same, she had a feeling that the Baron would be looking out for her more. She smiled in her sleep he seemed to want to protect her, twice saying she shouldn’t be in the company of the likes of the men.

Suddenly she sat up and rubbed her face, NO she was in debt to Richard and since he was dead her debt went to John or so he said. She was a ward of the whelm and her place was serving the Queen it was heresy to think otherwise and therefore could mean death but burning, beheading or the worse, torture, being stretched, hanged till half dead, disemboweled then quartered, all of which happened in front of a crowd as the jeered and threw rotted fruit at her. She shuddered to think of it. No she couldn’t think of it, the Queen asked her to go so go she went and this is where she belonged.

When they finally got to where they were going Desiree quickly put the gold pieces into the satchel that King Richard had given her. And pushed opened the door not wanting to be helped by anyone, but she was just a lady in waiting no one really paid her attention. She directing the guards on where to put the queen’s big stuff then put al the small stuff where it was wanted knowing her Queen she knew where to put everything. She locked the door and divvied the gold into equal bags made sure all was secure and laid down and promptly feel asleep on the small cot that she slept on when they came here. She couldn’t get out of the estate for the first couple of days.

In the morning of the 3rd day she finally work up early enough and she snuck out unseen by anyone and went to the town and since she was wearing the crest of her Queen she was surrounded but having plenty she handed out the bags to the great pleasure of all the people. She saw a young girl and knelt down the child who could have not been more then 7 began to shake. “My child what ever is wrong” The little girl looked up at her.

“My ma is sick at home and father had gone to be with the Lord but we be hungry” Desiree licked her lips.

“Take me to your home child, but first lets stop at a market” Desiree took the young girl by the hand and too a market. Buying plenty of bread, milk, eggs, and even some fruit then took the child home. Walking into the little girls home she realized how desperate it was she saw three more children sleeping on the floor and the mother in bed. The mother seeing her tried to get out of bed Desiree shook her head “No don’t, I bring you food and a gift from the Queen. She handed over two bags of gold. The mother began to weep and Desiree rushed forward. “And I will be seeing that a doctor comes and sees to your ailment there should be enough gold in there to last you a long time” She smiled “I will come back if I can but I must be going” The mother hugged her “God bless you child” Desiree smiled “And you and your family”

Leaving the house Desiree quickly handed out more bags of gold. The Queen told her to hand it all out so the rest she gave to a church. Returning back to the cottage she was met by the baron who was looking mean “Where have you been and why didnt the Highway men take anything from you,?” Desiree responded "Baron I have nothing but this statchel" He growled "You lier you were just giving gold to the towns people" Looking down Desiree swallowed "By the Queens request baron" he grabbed for her Desiree acting too slow did not get her arm away fast enough and winced as he gripped for her satchel and broke it causing a red mark on her neck. “Baron that is mine” Desiree reached out for it the baron back handed her causing her to taste blood” She ignored it “Baron that was a gift from King Richard” As soon as she said it she regretted it The baron slapped her hard across the face causing her face to burn. She felt the tears burn her eyes she swallowed hard as the Baron stared at her “You will remember the King is now John” Desiree nodded “Yes Baron” The Baron growled threw the satchel on the ground and stormed off.

Desiree bent down to pick up the Satchel willing the tears not to come until she made it to the Queens quarters. Then looking in the mirror she rubbed her red neck and checked her face it was defiantly swollen. She sighed. And the Queen would be arriving soon. But nothing could be done she cuddled down into her cot after making sure the door was locked.

In the morning she arouse and looked in the mirror she sighed at the sight, her neck was black and blue from the satchel being snatched from her. Her cheek was swollen and her right eye was black and swollen shut. Since the Queen would more then likely be coming today Desiree washed her hair and left it down so it was down so it would hide her eyes her dress painfully covered her bruises on her neck. She sighed as she heard the carriage and she raced to the inner foyer to meet her Queen curtsying to her.

She hoped that she could get away before the King was alerted to what happened. The baron would more then likely make up some lie about her busises coming from the highway men, but it would take a fool to realize that they were fresh and not a couple days old.

She heard footsteps and lifted her head and saw him. She curtsied again “Baron I did not know that you were coming” She hoped that her bruises were hidden the ones on her arm and neck would be but the eye would be harder to miss


((I was thinking of the Baron grabbing Dissree and showing the King what the "highway" men did and maybe Justin jumping in to volentree to clean her, or his sees them later or what ever))

[Guest]

Justin looked at Desiree as she curtsied to him. When she rose he could not help but see the side of her face and he raised a brow. He knew that the soldiers that had accompanied her to the country estate would not dare touch her, being the queens favorite hand maiden and a ward of the court. That would be instant death for them. The same would have been with the male servents that had been sent, excpet they would have been tortured and then killed. There was but one that would have assumed he was above the law and all. He moved her hair back and saw the other brusing.

"I think the queen will be wanting to know what happened, my lady. I think you should inform her immediately. His eyes then searched around to see where the Baron of Kent was. He was no where to be seen. He was probably in his room still sleeping or just be awaken by a servent to inform him that the king and queen had arrived. Lifting a hand up he gently touched the bruised face, "If you will excuse me, my lady, I think I have a bit of business to attend to. He took her hand once more and again kissed the back of it, before turning and making his way into the mannor house and inquiring about the Baron of Kent.

He opened the door to the baron's quarters a bit unceramoniously and stared at the fat and discusting man with a raised brow. "Well now Alfred, I think you have finally over stepped yourself this time. Attacking a ward of the court, that is a person protected by the King, and the queens favorite handmaiden. I do think that the queen will ask King John for the severest of punishments." The baron's eyes and face were at first livid with rage at Justin just bursting into the room. Then as Justin spoke, his face went white and his eyes filled with fear. "Public stretching, disembowlment, and beheading. I do think that is the punishment for such an offence you know."

"But, but, she talked to the Highwayman.........she spoke of King Richard as if he was still alive and king." he began to blubber.

"The Highwayman?" Justin looked surprised. "Where and when did this happen?" he asked.

"On the way here. The coward jumped us with a hundred men." Justin had to hold back a laugh. He had only ten men with him. "He robbed us, but didn't take anything from her." he tried to calm himself but failed.

"Well I can see why this thief would not have stolen anything from her. She is quite beautiful and charming. He probably could not bring himself to take anything from her. It was not her fault or doing. As for speaking of King Richard as if he was still King, well even though he is not alive he was the King of England and will always be a King of England in the history of this country. There is no dishonor in honoring a former King of this Country." Justin grinned. "I Have a feeling the King will be calling you in here shortly."

With that Justin turned and left the Baron, shaking and all color gone from his face. His wife in the other room had heard and she came running in, her voice a high pitch wailing of worry and fear. Justin chuckled as he walked away. The fear and worry would consume the baron. It was not long before he was hurring out of the mannor house his servents carrying half packed luggage to the carriage and them running to get the horses. With in a short time the Baron's carriage was hurring down the road away from the manor house. Justin did not think that the Baron would fare to well. When the Queen found out she would surely go to John and ask that the Baron be punished for his actions. How severe that punishment would be would be up to King John.

[Xuxa_Rene]

As soon as she saw Justin’s face she knew that he had seen her bruises. She closed her eyes ashamed as he stepped forward and moved her hair back she was trembling and she swallowed hard. She noticed him looking around surely trying to locate the one that had done this. She shook her head trying to tell him that he wasn’t there she didn’t want the guards to be blamed or the servants but it seemed that he seemed to know who did it.

At his suggestion of telling the Queen she looked up with fear filled eyes the Queens anger marveled the Kings. But it wasn’t a suggestion where she could say no to it. Desiree knew that it was more of a gentle order. When he kissed her hand again she felt her knees go weak remember him the first time they met then when they met on the way here. She was certain that he was the highwayman but kept it silent and showed no signs that she knew. As he brought his hand up to her swollen bruised face Desiree inhaled her breath and tensed up wincing instinctually then seeing how soft it was leaned into it slightly. When he kissed her hand again she nodded. “I shall tell the Queen Baron” She watched him leave then rushed to met her Queen.

Her face still hidden when she finally located the Queen she curtsied then with the Queens blessing she stood again and sat down beside her. The Queen who had been watching Justin and Desiree had a smile on her face “I do believe that the Baron has taken a shine to you my child” Desiree blushed. “He is a fine man, but my place is with you My Queen” The Queen touched her shoulder. “Now my Child what are you trying to hide from my” Desiree turned her face. And with tears falling from her face she moved her hair so the bruises all became visible. The Queen stared at her. “What happened” Desiree bowed her head. “When I came back from handing out your gifts, by the way I met a sweet family but the mom is sick, I do hope that your majesty’s can spare a doctor for a few hours to see to them, very sweet family.”

The Queen cocked an eyebrow “If you tell me what happened I will see to it” Well there was no getting out of it now. Desiree swallowed hard and nodded. “Well when I arrived back the Baron Alfred got upset and ripped the satchel from my neck, when I asked for it back, explaining it was a gift from Richard” She paused “I called him King Richard though” She said it as if it was an excuse for being hit “He grew angry and struck me, telling me to remember who is king” She began to shake “My Queen I do know who is King, it was just Richard was a father to me, he took me in after my father died, and raised me as his own”

The Queen gently her chin “My Child there is never an excuse for hitting a ward of the throne” She took the clearly upset Desiree into her arms and hugged her then released her. “Excuse me” The Queen then stood and motioned her to follow “We will have a doctor look at that, and until you are healed you are to take it easy” When Desiree opened her mouth to object the Queen gave her a look “Do not make me make it an order” Desiree then smiled ‘Yes my Queen” Being led into the King’s sitting room Desiree curtsied but The Queen had no time for that she stormed up to him her temper flaring. “LOOK WHAT YOUR BARON ALFIED DID TO DESIREE” She screamed loud enough that Desiree was her voice would travel to Scotland. The King looked up “Desiree lift your face child” Desiree swallowed hard and lifted her face and pushed back her hair. The king slammed his fist and ordered his servant to find the Baron and bring him to him. He then stepped forward and gently sat Desiree down. And called for a doctor. Desiree was grateful that he didn’t ask about any other wounds she didn’t want to show her neck to John, he looked at her like a piece of meat sometimes and she didn’t like that. Especially in front of her Queen.

Desiree turned to the King “If it pleases your majesties I much prefree being seen by the doctor the room, since I have ordered to relax. The Queen chuckled “I think she is a bit worried of seeing the Baron Alfred again” Desiree nodded “Truth is I am” The King nodded “So be it” The doctor came in “Ahh” The King stood “Take care of the Lady Desiree here she wishes to be taken care of a place where she can rest later” The Doctor bowed “Of course” Desiree curtsied and followed the Doctor out of the room. She was lead to a chair in the main sitting room “This should be a good place, you will not be alone, but still able to relax as the Queen has ordered” Desiree sat down on the lounging couch and the doctor gasped at the site of her eye, which was swollen shut by this time her entire right side of her was black and blue and red from the blood vessels breaking. She was in considerable pain but she did her best to hide it. The Doctor clicked his tongue. “I pity the fool that did this to you” Desiree remained still as the doctor looked her over. And only slightly flinched as the painful liquid was applied to her eye. The doctor looked down at her. “I have seen grown men weep with this applied” Desiree remained still her body was rigid but she refused to cry out.

Meanwhile the Queen and King were fuming. No one ever hit a ward of the throne, and especially for doing their bidding. Alfred would be in for it, not only did he strike Desiree he was also not there to greet them. A servant soon rushed in “The Baron Alfred and his Wife are gone” The servant was frightened “Mi Lord, My lady none of used helped them I give my word” Although Angry John nodded “I believe you, you all love Desiree nearly as much as my wife, you wouldn’t help one that hurt her” The King thought for a moment “Send me Baron Justin” The servant nodded, bowed and left quickly to do what he was asked. Assuming he was near where Desiree was.

Back on the couch Desiree was given a drink “This should help you rest so you can heal” Desiree nodded and drank it and laid down on the couch and close her eyes. Grateful that at least for right now that her other wounds were for now still hidden. Her body ached and she longed for sleep and finally it found her she curled up and fell asleep

[Guest]

Justin had watched Alfred and his wife leave. He grinned knowing that would even make the King madder at the man. The Baron Alfred was a man that had men, wealth and good land. Something that King John needed at the moment. The braggard was useful to the King, for his support, and men at arms. He had been smart and careful, but now had given the King a way to get rid of the fat and lazy man and perhaps give the barony to one that was more proactive and one that John could trust.

John was thinking these thoughts as he had his personal physician take a look at Desiree. His wife and Queen was young and sexy, but he had a desire for other women, and Desiree was very desireable. He was pissed off at the baron for hurting her and maring her beauty, and deliciously happy that he now had a good reason to get rid of the baron. He was even ammused that the baron had been robbed by the Highwayman. The stuff that he had taken from the servents carriage and the weapons were easily replaced and not worth that much. But what had been taken from the Baron made him grin, even though the Highwayman had been a pain in his ass, this time he had actually done something for him.

When Justin received word that he was requested by the King, he made his way to the main living area. He approached and at the appropriate distance he went to one knee before the king. "Your magisty sent for me?"

"Yes I did. It seems that the Baron of Kent has assulted my ward." he rubbed his chin. "He has left the estate and I want you to take some men and go after him and bring him back here. He must face the charges and my punishment." John leaned back in the high back chair he was sitting in. The Queen was sitting there in another with a smile upon her lips. She would give her husband some ideas on the punishment.

Justin stood and bowed. "I will leave immediately sire." he said. "How is Desiree?" he asked concerned.

"She is being looked after by my personal physician. I am sure that she will be fine." the king grinned. He could tell that Justin was intrested in the woman. Desiree had so far spured his advances towards her. He wondered if Justin had tried and been turned down, but that was something he did not ask. "If you like you may check on her before you leave. She is in her room."

Justin bowed again and backed up then turned and left the room a smile on his lips. Another blow to the throne by getting rid of Alfred. Hopefully he could sway the King in putting someone in his place that like him made a pretence of being loyal but actually was not. He went to Desiree's room and saw the doctor coming out of the room. He looked in at her and saw her asleep. The doctor told Justin that she would be alright and that the swelling would be down in the morning.

He nodded and then turned to do the Kings bidding. He selected several soldiers and rode after Alfred. It was not long, perhaps a couple hours, when Justin caught up to the Baron. "Tisk Tisk Alfred, you know you can not run from the King's justice." he grinned as he had the man's wrist's tied behind him and put back in the carriage. The return trip was one that made Justin smile. The Baron weeping and mumbling. His wife crying and berating her husband for his stupidity. When they arrived the Baron was taken to a room and guards posted outside his door and outside the windows to his room.

[Xuxa_Rene]

The doctor had seen her neck wounds as she had fallen asleep but with her sleeping he couldn’t tend to it, and with her being a ward and a young lady he would have to be in the presence of someone else. It was the proper way. But it would have to be tended too he was worried about telling the king though. He had a temper and so did the Queen, to him it looked like she had something around her neck and the baron tried to grab for it. If she had that he wondered if there were more marks on her. He assumed that there would at least be some on her arms. If she had resisted from his grasp he would have grabbed her arm.

Running into Justin the doctor had to smile. If he were trying to court her he would have a run for his money. She was a headstrong woman. But he continued down the stairs to the King and Queen bowed and the King waved his hand telling him to continue. “Your Majesties, Lady Desiree is resting” The King nodded then looked at the doctor. “Why do I feel that there is more?” The doctor nodded “On top on the Lady Desiree’s face there is marks upon her neck, it looks as if she had something on her neck and the baron went to grab for it and she resisted” He paused again. “Since it would take her disrobing slightly I didn’t want to do so with out a witness to protect her honour. He bowed to them again and the king nodded. “When he returns Baron Justin will be with you. You and my Queen here as well, The Doctor nodded and bowed then stood off to the side. “I gave her a sedative to help ease the pain, I do not know how the Lady did it, but even as I applied the Ointment she barely moved” King John looked at her. “You mean?” The doctor nodded “Yes that ointment” John let out a chuckle. “Aye a strong, stubborn woman is she”

The Queen was shaking with anger. King John turned to her “What do you think should happen to the baron?” The Queen looked at him “First of all stripped of the title Baron, any treasures not already stolen by the Highway man should be given to Baron Justin” When the King started to protest. “My love who convinced Desiree to come to me, when normally she would have denied anything happened, who is now going after him for you, and who is now your most loyal supporter?” The King grumbled under his breath “What was that dear” The Queen asked with a raised brow The King smiled, he couldn’t say no to his young wife. “I agree” The Queen smiled. “Next I think he should be flogged, he dare to mare my most trusted Lady in waiting, and may I remind you she was adopted into your family so she is practically your sister.” That thought made the King rub his chin. “Well an attack on the royal family is warranted of death” The Queen nodded. “Hmmm I think the rest can wait until the Baron is here I wish to make him sweat in his boots”

Up in the room Desiree was sleeping soundly and slept until she heard a carriage returning. Her eyes opened she wasn’t sure how long she had slept but she got out of bed and went to the window. She saw Justin drag out the Baron that had hit her. She knew this couldn’t end well. The Baron was weeping. She shook her head brought a hand to her cheek and lowered her hair to try and hide it and went to her door. Seeing to two guards she watched as they bowed to her. “Lady Desiree we are to accompy you to the King and Queen” Desiree nodded “Alright” She was then lead to the sitting room. She was flanked by all sides then in the throne room she curtsied then went to stand by her Queen but instead was told to sit. So she did so.


((Figured you could Play the King about her neck, and get Justin))

[Guest]

Justin left the baron and his wife alone in the room under guard and went to report to the King. When he entered he saw the King and Queen and Desiree in the Main Room of the Mannor house. When he entered the King smiled. "Well now, I trust you have returned with the Baron of Kent. My lovely wife has made some intresting suggestions on what to do with him and his lands and other properties." he leaned back in the chair he was sitting on, folding his hands together and looking over at his wife.

Justin also turned and looked at the queen. It had been said she had a temper and no doubt wanted to do the worst to the Baron of Kent. Especially since he had assulted the queen's favorite lady in waiting. But the disposal of the barony and the baron's property, was the kings decision, but of course he might take suggestions from his wife. He gave a bow to the queen then asked King John what was to become of the baron's land and properties.

John grinned and chuckled, "I think my wife has taken a liking to you Baron." he took his wife's hand in his. "She suggests that his land and property go to you." Justins jaw dropped at the announcement. He had figured the king would give it to someone else. One that could be trusted and insure that the King continued to get his gold from taxes and have his men available. "Since your barony and that of Kent borders each other I think the union of both would be very favorable.

Justin bowed, "You honor me sire. I do not deserve such an honor." he said humbly.

"Nonsence, you have shown your loyalty again and again. I value your councel. What better person could it go to." He stood and walked to Dustin putting a hand on his shoulder. "Now we have to decide what to do with the former baron of Kent." he turned to one of the guards, "Go fetch him and bring him here." he orderd

The guard left the room and returned with the two guards that were guarding him and the Baron. He was shaking like a leaf and fell to his knees before the king. "Your Magisty....... I...... I.... " John back handed him across the mouth knocking the former baron to the floor. "You dare to attack my ward and a lady in waiting to my wife? Do not even talk to me. You are hear by stripped of your rank as a baron of this realm and all your lands and holdings will be given forth with to Baron Graystone. My wife will announce the rest of your punishment." he looked back at his wife.

[Xuxa_Rene]

Watching as Justin entered the room Desiree bowed her head slightly in reverence. When the King greeted him Desiree frowned She felt sorry for him, so he had to go and get the baron just because she had been foolish and had been gone too long, if and when they had a chance to be alone she would have to apologize to him. For making him race after the baron and for the incovincance . She was certain that he was exhausted. She looked him over trying to find that scar again; the scar that she was certain was on him and the highwayman. Could there be two men with the same scar? Desiree was certain that there wasn’t but if she could only get one more look at it. She of course could not ask but, maybe just maybe he was and Desiree could have an alley in this war against John.

When the King made his comment Desiree stiffened. What could the Queen have planned? She hoped it would be something good. She knew that King John could never say no to his wife. She was a lot younger then he was and it seemed that he tried to keep her happy. To the point of spoiling her but Desiree also saw the love. Even when John tried to corner her and try to get her into his bed, Desiree just knew it was the time. He had ever succeeded though Desiree had pleaded with him and had always managed to get out of it.

She watched the Queen and Justin at the same time her head going back and forth between the two her face was still swollen and she still had a bit of a headache from her attack. And her head was already spinning and switching between the two was making it worse. She rubbed her temples and listened silently to what was going on. Hearing that the Baron of Kent’s land was going to go to Justin Desiree gasped then quickly blushed and apologized to the room and attempted to keep her face straight and emotionless which was just harder after seeing Justin’s reaction.

He did deserve them and the justice of it all if Baron Grey stone was really the highwayman this all was even better. She again bowed her respect to Justin then she leaned back in the chair as she was feeling faint again but she would not complain. Her feeling of faint only got worse when the King told the guards to fetch the Baron of Kent. The guards seemed to see it and took a step to her side and Desiree looked up at them with gratefulness.

When the Baron of Kent came in and was struck Desiree gasped and turned her face. She knew the punishment for attacking her, it was the same as heresy, which would be death, but she could not have the death of two men on her hands she already blamed herself for her father’s death. So she silently began to pray that the King for once would be merciful. When the King turned to his wife, her Queen and Desiree realized that the Queen was going to decide.

She took a deep breath and in French began to speak. “My Queen if I may” The Queen turned to her surprised. Desiree only spoke in French when she wanted it to be kept secret. Then Queen nodded. Desiree continued in French, “My Queen I know he deserves death, and I do not dare question the King or you my Queen but I cannot have two men’s blood on my hands” She paused before continuing. “Please I pled with you anything, not death”

Then Queen looked at her a bit shocked then nodded she understood that she still blamed herself for her fathers death, and maybe even King Richards. “My child you still look a little pale please go lay down again” Desiree knowing that the Queen was giving her a out nodded stood and walked close to the former Baron of Kent and in a very un-lady like move spat on him and in prefect Latin spoke again “You will regret the day you laid your filthy disgusting hands on me you cockles scum” And with that she walked out. She was not aware that anyone within earshot knew French Nor Latin so she thought that she was in the clear. Of course Justin would have been able to hear both but Desiree was certain that he did not know either French or Latin.

As she was walking pass she curtseyed to Justin. “Congratulations” She said softly then walked out of the room. She nearly collapsed but grabbed a hold of the rail and slowly made it upstairs.

Meanwhile in the room the Queen was up and pacing. She turned to Justin. “Bring the scumbag to his feet” Once he was on his feet the Queen stared at him the anger was so strong she was shaking. The King knew better to approach her at the moment but motioned for the guards to be at the ready. Taking a deep breath the Queen folded her hands in front of her. She spoke softly surprising since she was so angry even her husband was worried. But listened intently as he wife spoke.

“As you know attack on a ward is the same as attack on the King himself” She began to pace. “Your life is only spared by the pleas of Desiree, why I have no idea but your life will be spared” The Queen smiled “But first you will be stripped and flogged, then I believe three days is the stockades as you know you are stripped of your land and title, I do believe that a public apology to Desiree is also in order” That was a very humiliating fate, to have to apology to a female in the public square he would be mocked every where he went. She looked at the former Baron. “I will have you know have it not been for Desiree, you would have been flogged, hung until half dead, I would have ordered each of your toes and fingers cut off then you would have been boiled in oil till dead.” She turned to her husband and Justin “Anything you wish to add?”

Desiree had finally made it to the room and had laid down on the bed the door she had left opened but she didn’t realize it. The tears began to fall down her face. “I am sorry father” She whispered to herself and huddled herself into a fetal position and she waited to see what the news would come, she half hoped that her Queen would allow to have time with Justin so she could have a chance to apologize for making him chase down the former Baron. Although she tried hard she just could not stay awake. Falling asleep with her tear stained face pointed towards the doorway. But hearing footsteps on the stairs she opened her eyes slightly waiting to see who it was coming up the stairs.

[Guest]

Justin stood there and heard what Desiree told the queen and raised a brow. She was asking the queen to have mercy on the Baron. It was a surprise that she would seek such after what he had done to her. He did not care what happened to the Former Baron. He was a man that he had no respect for and would not mind seeing punished to the fullest. But that of course was the way he was. Her asking for mercy for the Baron though showed something of her that he liked. She had compassion even for an enemy.

He grinned slightly as she walked past the former baron and spoke to him in latain. When Desiree left the queen began pacing and thinking. Then she addressed the baron. What was to be done to him was not going to be pretty. Once he had been flogged and publicly humiliated he would be sent away with out anything to find a means of living. His wife, would be sent to a convent to live out her days. She would have an easy life but would not have the luxuary she had. All in all he was pleased. He would have to select one of his men to supervise the new barony. All of his men had been with him during the crusades and he knew each and everyone of them were loyal to him. As for the men at arms that the baron had, well he would have to see where their loyalties were.

The old Baron was dragged away, his legs had not strength in them and he had to be litterly dragged. He wondered why the queen had chosen him to take control of the barony of Kent. It seemed she had some sort of plan for something. Once the room was cleared John ordered wine. He sighed, "We are suppose to be relaxing and getting away from all the polictial nonsence and here I am dolling out punishments and rewards." he drank deeply from the goblet of wine. "Now my sweet love, let us find something more fun to do. Shall we." he stood up and took his wife's hand. Justin bowed low again as the two made their exit.

Justin left the main room of the manor house and went up to the rooms he had been assigned to. He passed the room Desiree was assigned and saw she had left the door open and that she lay curlled up on the bed. He quietly shut the door for her smiling. When she was better he would seek her out to have a walk about the grounds.

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