Chapter 11

The sound of the young massanger's firm steps vibrated like a signal of alarm in the regent's ear and in the deep silence which was enveloping the Throne Room. The prince was surrounded by his entire Court, including his own Council and a few old harmless advisors, theoretically respected, officially disgraced. Although he was attended this way, or maybe even because of this reason, Prince John was on thorns. He was afraid of this uninvited and unexpected guest, dangerous for his status near the prisoner king, who made him loved by all the faithful subjects of the Crown: a man, a young man, alone and inexperienced, without protection, but brave and loyal, against all revolted nobility of England, supported by the king of France himself , powerful and influent, but born out of treason and urged by perfidious ambitions. The prince was not the only one who was foreseeing a defeat.

"It would seem this fight is going to be interesting", had laughed De Bracy during the council, when the news of the demanded audience had arrived at Prince John.

A voice laughed down his words:

"Fight?" burst out Albert of Malvoisin. "I don't see any fight! He's an ignorant, a soldier- maybe a good one, I admit, but he knows nothing about politics and he knows nothing about diplomacy! I hardly believe he can even read!"

"How can you be so sure?" interrupted his brother, Phillip. "After all, he's been living near the King for some years. Don't you think he may have learnt a few things about the power of influence, about dealing with the crowds and gaining the support of armies? Isn't that enough? The whole country is sitting on gun powder! This man can be quite dangerous if he is more than he would let us see."

"Dastard! Coward!" thought Maurice.

The other councillors, aware that they rise and fall with the prince, so they shouted full of importance:

"Your Highness is afraid of a single man, when you have us all at your service?"

Against all expectations, prince John did not answer to praise their courage. This caused wonder and curiosity among his allies. Sir Albert stood revolted:

"For God's sake, Your Highness! This is not the end of the world! Richard is still imprisoned and there is no war to worry about. There is only one man, who most probably wants to apologise for his improper behaviour during the yesterday funeral. Is that so terrifying?"

"Let's not judge him in likelihood. He wouldn't risk his head by coming here if he didn't have some orders and deputations signed by Richard... We should also consider that", said Sir Phillip.

"The boy is brave. I admit and admire that. But it is all he has and he needs more than courage to break down our plans. However, we still have the Tower, if things are becoming serious", added Maurice, watching amused the disquieted faces of the royal councillors.

Prince John was suddenly enlightened. He rose his head and exclaimed:

"De Bracy is right... we are the masters, after all!"

Phillip was pleased, Albert was enthusiastic, only Maurice was surprised by the change in the regent's attitude.

"I must have said something that he misunderstood... again?!", thought he, slapping his own face.

That very moment, Walderman Fitzurse had rushed into the room.

"Forgive me, sire, but it is important."

"We appreciate your haste, sir Walderman. Do tell us...", yawned John.

"I have a letter"- Walderman Fitzurse approached to the throne- "from Henri IV. I think he pretends a ransom for Richard!"

There was a deep silence.

"I know... he wants 100,000 pounds" whispered the regent with a wry face.

Maurice quickly examined the coloured figures of the allies. They were looking simply bewildered...

And now, when the messenger of the imprisoned king was standing before them, handsome like an ancient hero, with his large noble forehead, large dark eyes, full of a sad and tender resignation, the seal of his tragic destiny, but sparking of pride and courage, all eyes were staring him- if not admiringly, at least full of interest. He saluted with elegance and remained in a respectful posture. Under his look, Prince John started drumming his fingers nervously on the throne's arms, betraying his impatience. After some moments of terrible tension, Maurice de Bracy, opening his arms, pronounced loudly, agains the protocol and to everybody's surprise:

"Brother in arms! Welcome home!"