The Blood Red Robe, page 15
“I know no more than you do. We appear to be heading south and towards the west.”
“What do we find there?”
“The land is different from here and now I am older I now know it is regarded as a land of much mystery and legend. Ancient tribes have lived here in the past and a vast stone circle is to be found there. Only as a child did I go there once. It is known as Stonehenge and is truly a wondrous site. There are massive stones balanced on each other and it is believed to be very, very old and before the time of Christ himself. It is regarded as a place of mystery and magic and from the bones found, it must have once been a burial ground.”
The night darkness began falling and Alain was unable to suppress a massive yawn. “I need some sleep and if you don’t mind, I am to my bed. I shall see you in the morning. Sleep well my Lady.” He gave her a slight bow, clapped Simon on his shoulder and went to his room.
The good night wishes were returned, and both were left alone. Their mutual need was to relate ideas and opinions regarding the Magdalene.
Aveline spoke first. “Well I haven’t been told we are heading in the wrong direction. Have you?”
“No not a thing. This land of yours is new to me and I have no idea where we are going. I know how to take measurements from shadows made by the sun at its highest point midday. From this I know we are heading in a southerly direction, but it means nothing to me.”
“I have lived here since I was born but rarely have travelled this way before and hardly know it. If we were going the wrong way, we would have heard. So all I can suggest is that we carry on until we hear something.”
“I am happy with that.” Simon replied. “Should in my sleep I hear anything, I will tell you in the morning. Like Alain I’m now to my bed and wish you a good night, my Lady.” He gave a smile and small bow and turned to his room.
Aveline had no desire to sit alone in the gathering gloom and she too went to her room. It was not long before sleep seduced her into its open arms. Her eyes closed and she snuggled deeper into her covers.
A dawning day shone a stream of light that chased away the sentinels dotted in the dark sky above.
Simon gently opened his eyes shielding them from the morning glare. The only thought in his mind was the Magdalene. He had heard nothing but knew he had to speak with Lady Aveline.
Aveline had seen or heard nothing, and she knew she had to talk with Simon. Mindful of possible dangers she climbed into chain mail and her flat sabaton footwear before going to the eating room.
Both Alain and Simon were seated at the table. They had been there for some while and were waiting for her before they commenced eating.
Simon and Aveline knew they could talk openly in front of Alain who by now was no stranger to Simon’s whisperer.
“Let me tell you Simon,” She had dropped the ‘Sir’ as they now had known each other long enough. “I heard or saw nothing. Did you?”
He shook his head. No, me neither, not a thing.”
Aveline sighed. “I don’t think it matters. I am convinced we are heading in the right direction.”
He gave a bemused smile. “Well I hope so because I am lost.”
All three sat in silence.
Alain said. “Visions or not, I believe you two totally. The things you are going through just do not happen… if there was not truth contained in them. I completely trust you and am sure we are heading in the right direction. The lady smiles upon you.”
Aveline said. “I remember clearly when we started our journey she spoke of danger. What can that be?”
Simon replied. “That I suspect is the men who followed us and fought with us at an inn. We could have lost them but maybe we have not.”
“I’ve been trying to think who they might be.” Alain leant forward to make his point. “The only other person who knew of our mission was Grand Master Ridefort. But I ask myself, was he?”
“What are you trying to say Alain?”
“Well in your conversations you mentioned a toady door listener, Émile Geraud.,”
“Yes, I remember.”
“I know that he was forever seen running around Bishop Corbiniani.”
“What do you mean Alain?”
He replied. “Corbiniani is a sworn enemy of anybody or anything to do with Mary Magdalene.”
“He is not alone.” Simon added. “There are many who think she is a paramount heresy.”
Alain continued. “So as I suggested some while back that he overheard all. Let's suppose he overheard you and the Grand Master talking.
“I see what you are trying to suggest. You have mentioned this before and now it makes even more sense. He must have told Corbiniani what he heard. What could he do about it?”
“More than you might imagine. Corbiniani has the ear of our Pope and from what I understand, he unknown to most Knights Templar or Ridefort, has a secret band of followers who he made into a force known as the Blessed Guardians of Christ. Their task is to inflict pain and punishment on any heretic or blasphemer. The miscreants have to renounce their heretical beliefs or face possible excommunication, which means they can never enter heaven for eternity when they die.
“If nobody knows about it… how is it that you do?”
“Because Simon, once, I was approached by a member with a view to joining them. As you see I declined but not before I got to know all this.”
“That,” said Simon, “gives me cause to think that Corbiniani had knowledge of our mission and is either attempting to stop it but more than likely attempt to destroy it.
“Exactly. Our attackers who were almost unidentifiable were more than likely his men. Montpellier is a prime suspect.”
“I would agree,” Alain responded. “I can only think they are behind us somewhere and most likely the danger that your Magdalene vision referred to.”
“We are warned and now prepared and have Aveline as a more than dangerous ally.”
She gave a smile. “Thank you, your conversation has told me much. So I guess we press onwards and see what happens.
Chapter 33
Temple Mount
Jerusalem
THE DOOR SWUNG open and Grand Master Ridefort in an angry manner swept into his rooms, grabbed a wooden cup, poured a measure of wine, and quickly swallowed it. He had heard some disturbing news and was determined to find out more about it.
It seems a knight, fallen in battle, was dying. He urgently wanted to repent his sins but there was no priest about to hear his confession. The Grand Master, as he always did, made his journey around the battlefield offering solace and encouragement wherever he could. On this occasion he went from man to man offering what comfort he was able. It was then a man laying on a low table displaying horrific wounds was being attended by a surgeon. He grabbed at Ridefort’s robe as he was about to pass by.
The Grand Master knew nothing could be done for the man. “Good knight you have put on a noble fight and have suffered for your love of God. He will comfort you. Our surgeon will do what he can with your wounds.” He looked at the surgeon who simply shook his head.
The man’s voice was weak and Ridefort bent in closer to hear him.
The dying man reached out and with a hard grip held the Grand Master’s hand. “Master, hear me for I do not have long.” He took in a painful gasp of air.
“I have broken my vow of obedience. I will tell you. I decided to become a member of a secret army here in Jerusalem.” His body shook as he gave a violent blood spluttered wretch.
Ridefort eyes opened wide. “A secret army! What can that be?” he asked in an amazed tone of voice.
“Listen hard sir before it is too late. They are called the Blessed Guardians of Christ.”
“What? Good knight, speak slowly and carefully. “Who are they?”
The man went into another bout of coughing and gripped harder on Ridefort’s hand as a low moan escaped his gritted teeth.
Although dying the knight’s voice was clear. “Your servant Geraud, told Corbiniani of Cardona’s mission to find Magdalene’s robe. His followers now know. You and anything of Mary Magdalene… he hates. The bishop leads them with the Holy Father’s blessing. Your mission he wishes to destroy.” He broke off in a welter of blood-filled heaves. The man could speak no further as a deep gurgle of bloody vomit ejected from his half open mouth. A death rattle quickly followed, and the doctor rushed over as the Grand Master stood over the dead man and made the sign of the cross. “God will forgive you.”
That was all he could say as he strode away digesting the story he had just been told. There was no doubting the words of a dying man.
Once in his room, he slumped down in his chair. His mind was whirling as he tried to decide on a course of action. A secret army operating against him was intolerable and it had to be crushed, together with the treacherous Bishop. It was time to call in all his commanders, noble knights, sergeants, and chaplains. There was much to be discussed. The bishop would have to be handled with great care as he appeared to have Papal blessing. The other thought he was struggling with, was Geraud the informer? If he was, how did he find out about the mission and what dangers were Cardona and Laurent in? He could barely think of it. Something had to be done but he had no idea where the mission seekers could be. He was unable to prevent himself talking out loud.
“Did Geraud discover the secret mission? If I find it is him, he will regret the day he was born. So help me God!”
An intuitive flash of awareness coursed through him. It could only have been one person. Of course! Geraud the listening toad.!
There was a knock on the door. He didn’t bother getting up but shouted out. “Come in.”
The door opened and the half-bent figure of Émile Geraud scuttled in like a snake that had slid in under the door.
Ridefort felt a feeling of disgust. He stood up and ignoring Geraud went to the door and shouted out loudly. “Guards! Guards here and be quick.”
He turned and stood at the door and fixed Geraud with a look of contempt “Well my snooping toad this time you have gone too far. I know of what you have been doing and it is over for you.”
Geraud began to quiver with a look of fear on his face.
“But Grand Master what have I done? Beads of sweat erupted from his face and head. The guards then rushed to the Grand Master.
“Master, you called us.”
“I did.” He gestured towards Geraud. “Take this poisonous toad to our prison and chain him to the wall. He will be dealt with later.”
“Bbb… but—” stammered Geraud in a state of terror. “Wh… wh… what have I done?” A growing wet patch appeared on the front of his breeches.
The guards roughly seized Geraud by his arms and neck and hauled the blubbering servant to the door.
The Master, in a final gesture kicked him solidly up his backside with the guards dragging him out.
Ridefort took a deep breath, raised his eyes skyward as tiredness unexpectedly engulfed him.
Whispers…
It was her. It was indistinct as it always was at first, but it became clearer. He lay back on his bedding and listened
Grand Master, be at peace. Your seekers are joined by a third, greatly skilled and true of heart. They are skilled warriors and safe… but danger lurks. There are those who would take what they find. They are in another land far from here. Fear not for I will come to you many times as they move onward in an unknown land.
Her words began fading, as the message grew fainter until it vanished. It finished and his trance-like sleep was over as he returned to full awareness. He knew what had happened and was thankful for what he had been told. That they were alive and well was good news but where were they and who was the third person? Another thought struck him. If they were being followed it most certainly was Corbiniani’s men. The slimy toad had some nasty questions to answer before he decided what to do with him.
The command had gone out to all ranks. The noble knights, sergeants and chaplains within Temple Mount were to meet with the Grand Master when the fourth bell was struck.
Corbiniani was sitting on his throne like chair and immersed in his Biblical notes, scouring for mentions of the Magdalene. He could not find much he could use in his next address. With the existing atmosphere, it was essential that he should expose her for what he thought she was… a lying street prostitute who wanted a sweet life away from trudging the streets and being cheated on by customers. Knights Templar had made it worse with their adoration of her and of John the Baptist who many of them considered as the Son of God and not Jesus.
This subject was going to be delivered as his next address to
What heresy have these Templars got into? They adore a prostitute, a doubtful Baptist and I wouldn’t be surprised if they added Satan amongst those to be worshipped.
He rubbed his bony hands together at the thought of what he was going to tell them. At that moment he heard the massive Temple Mount bell strike four times, which was an important summons to the Noble Knights and others of rank in their hierarchy.
Where’s that hand wringing wretch Geraud? I need to know what’s happening. I dare not be seen there or there could be trouble. Those Templars would have no hesitation in ejecting me, and me, a direct servant of God. There has to be something done about them. I’ll have to wait until their call is over to know what is happening.
Chapter 34
MONTPELLIER LED FROM the front with De Bort and Chopin a close distance behind. Further back rode the larger group of outlaws led by Warin. They had been riding like this for days and at times provisions became a problem. That didn’t deter them for in the next village they would steal what they could, whether clothing, food, drink, or horse feed. If found it would simply be taken. Whenever Warin heard or saw signs of discontent, he would remind them of how rich they could become when the treasure was found. Then they could live like they had never had before. It was the sort of talk they wanted to hear, and it kept them going.
Montpelier was bored but he had his orders and no assault undertaken until what they wanted was in sight. He was not unaware of the frustrations and boredom of long days riding could have on everybody. He had an idea and would put it to Warin. It was to take four men and ride up the trail, which was now clear. There should be no difficulty in following it. Once the three were in sight they could pretend attack and have some fun, but not to kill them. They alone had an idea of where they were heading.
Warin put it to his men and had no trouble in finding four who were only too happy to participate. It was agreed and they set to working out a plan.
Stonehenge
That morning, the countryside of southern England looked fair and was in full bloom. It was a goodly sight thought Aveline. Above, a bright warming sun climbed steadily across the sky. In front, a distance from them stood the massive stones forming the vast circle, which made up the henge.
“Tis a sight to behold.” Alain sounded impressed.
The area induced a revered silence amongst them. Words were not needed. They admired the primitive grandeur of it.
“What is this place Aveline? It has a deep magic about it. I can feel my bones going cold. It is indeed hallowed. Alain was impressed.
She answered. “Nobody knows much of it, and there are many stories you can hear. It has been said that the stones had magical healing powers. I think that is wishful thinking. There is no disagreement that it must have taken countless years to build, and nobody knows how it was done. It was believed to be a site used by the Celtic tribes for magic and ceremonies of all sorts. These were conducted much later by their priests, the Druids.”
They dismounted and let their horses munch off the plentiful grass around. Aveline continued.
“My father told me a few things. He said there was something holy and sacred about the place. Druids, he told me were men of social standing in the community. They were religious leaders in their tribe. They fixed laws and they possessed medical knowledge. The people regarded them as mystical figures and their traditions were handed down by word of mouth. There were few written records. Countless stories exist about them, but many are but legends I fear.”
“What more?” Simon looked in awe at the surroundings.
Aveline replied. “Well it is said, but it can only be legend, that this place was built on the orders of King Aurelius Ambrosias who was exiled to your Normandy in France. On his return here he had a wizard named Merlin. Using his magic powers, Merlin had these stones carried across the seas and built into this very round. It was the King’s will that the henge would be a monument to four hundred and eighty men who were slaughtered by the Saxons over five hundred years ago.” Aveline paused. “Does that help you?”
Alain remained sitting on the grass. Simon had an odd light in his eye and his face had gone pale.
He hadn’t answered her question “She is here Aveline. I sense her all around this place.”
Aveline came to a halt and stood next to him. Their eyes became fixed ahead on two massive stones that stood apart and bridged at the top by another massive stone connecting them like a straight doorway.
Being transfixed they were unable to answer, but then it became clearer. Between the two upright stones a silvery swirl turned slowly before becoming faster so much so that the gap between the stones resembled a tall silver sheet. Powerless to move they watched as a shape emerged from a glowing mist. It had human form. They knew it was her.
Be unafraid for you know me well. I find you pleasing… and you have chosen well. I have been here many times. Yes, you are right it is both a sacred place for all men and women.
Simon and Aveline almost discerned a face but it never truly materialised. They tried moving towards her, but nothing would function. Their limbs would not respond, and their voices made no sound. They were frozen to the spot.
You travel well. Your route is true. I will leave you signs, which may guide you. Listen always to your inner self. Doubts will fade as you find deeper understanding. When you find what you seek, then the world will change. Ride on and always ride on.
