Date: Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:21:58 -0600
From: dnrock@rock.com
Subject: Arden 35

Arden
by: dnrock(dnrock@rock.com)


35:  Foreign Courts and Cities

(TN: This chapter is a little longer than normal.  When you reach the end
it will be clear why I organized it the way I did. )


1318, 5th Month, 2nd day:

Much has happened but none of it has prompted me to record in my privet
journal.  Our combined entries in the voyage record have already filled one
book and we are beginning the second here in Pisa.  Odovacar has been
acting strange these past few days.  I think he has some misgivings about
seeing his mother again, after so long a time.  I know he has been sending
letters to the General. off and on over the years.  He told me a few months
ago that his mother has given up her profession and is now the General's
house keeper.  Apparently, he is growing old, more quickly than we had
thought.


1318, 5th month, 3rd day:

Our travels from Pisa to Florence were quite interesting.  Florence and
Pisa are in conflict once again.  Just before we arrived, Pisa took Lucca
away from Florence.  Pisa was not to pleased that we would travel to
Florence but we would and told them so, in no uncertain terms.  The details
of all this are covered in our joint journal.  Not fully trusting them, we
moved the Prince Arden to a small fishing port some leagues south.  The
official reason was our desire to make more room in their port.  Hermogenes
and Panther stayed on the Prince Arden along with all of his sailors and
the marines.

We hired three river boats to cary us to Florence.  We came armed and I am
glad we did.  I was in the lead boat, Iason and Kastor in the second and
Polydeukus in the third.  The Argoanuts and our advisors/guides were
distributed equally among the three.  At several points along the way we
encountered the military of either Florence or Pisa, none were willing to
let us pass without suggesting some delay was necessary, to check on our
story.  I presented our letters of invitation, from every city state we
were passing though and demanded to be given unencumbered right of way;
ignoring their feeble attempt at seeking bribes.

At one point, a Florentine drew his sward and fortunately for him, his
commander came along and recognizing our standard, calling him back.  It
was fortunate, as I had my sword out and would have killed my second man,
had he not.  At least he was not suggesting a bribe was required.  I took
it, he was just over zealous in his duties and narrow in the understanding
of his orders.  This captain, was one of the sanctuary men and he knew us
and was expecting us.  It was Vitale, we all needed to pretend not to know
him.  He introduced himself as Captain Arno, which is the name of the river
we were traversing.

Captain Arno, pointed to the Argoanuts, all with bows at the ready.  "What
do you think you were going to do?  Those archers would have sent you and
your men to the grave in an instant."  He turned to me, "and you are?"

"I am Prince Arden of Parga, Captain Arno."

He looked me over, "and I see a second degree knight," he turned again to
the young officer, "and I am sure a much better swordsman than yourself
too," he turned back to me, "what brings you to Florence, Prince?"

My brothers and I are here on a state visit, at the invitations of your
government.  I pulled out my letter of invitation.  He looked it over.
"That is what your letter indicates.  Junior Lieutenant, please apologize
to Prince Arden and escort him to the city and the General's residence.  I
would go myself but can not leave my post until my relief arrives and that
is some hours away.

Lieutenant, make sure you explain that to the General.  Welcome to
Florence."  He bowed and departed leaving the surprised Lieutenant with his
mouth hanging open.  The young man apologized and I accepted it, as the
boatmen pushed off.

Once in the river again we began to talk.  He was quite young and new to
his duties.  Captain Arno seams very professional, has he been your
commander long?

"No Prince, only a few months."

I am sorry you were embarrassed before your men, that was unfortunate.

"The Captain was right, I acted rashly, without looking the situation over
or ascertaining your credentials."

"No great harm was done.  Your pride will soon heal.  I think the next time
you draw your sword, it would also be wise to take a proper stance with it.
Unless you are lightning fast, I would have killed you on the second
thrust.  You have never killed a man have you?"

"No Prince, never."  I could see he wanted to ask the same of me but was
afraid.  I have and it is anything but pleasant.  Something I hope never to
need do again.  My fencing master always told me, never draw your sword or
dagger unless you are prepared to use them to the end.  In addition, he
told me when you do that, always take the proper position.  Once the blade
is out of its sheath, it become a deadly weapon.  Your life depends on
doing it correctly.  I am sure Captain Arno will gladly help you with your
skills.  He strikes me a very professional.  How well do you know the
General?

"Not at all Prince.  He was long retired when I came into the army.  His
former men all speak of him as some kind of god."

Not a god but one of the finest and most honorable men, I have ever met.
His men revere him because he is not only a fine tactician but has a true
concern for their welfare, be they mercenaries or countrymen.  His honor is
high and he expects everyone in his command to meet that standard.

"They say he only lost one battle and that was to a boy prince."

It is true, he only ever lost one battle and he surrendered himself and his
army to a boy prince.  I was not in command just an observer at my uncle's
side.

He looked me over again and immediately fell on is knees and began kissing
my feet.  "You are the living Ganymede of Parga, my brother told me about
before he died.  I thought it was a delusion from his wounds but you are
real and he was not delusional.  I'm sorry Prince, I didn't mean..."

Rise up Lieutenant, you meant no offense and I take none.  Please, I am
Arden and only the model for the statue.  The idea of it belongs to my
brother, Crown Prince Iason.  He rose and I embraced him.  It must be hard
to loose a brother?  Be not ashamed, you can let your feelings out.  It is
between you and me alone.  He pressed to my body and cried for some
minutes.

Before I call Odovacar from the second boat, what is your name friend?
"Raffaele."  Well, Raffaele it is my pleasure to make your acquaintance.  I
introduced him to the others on our boat.

I did not get to know but a few of the Florentines, that accompanied the
General.  Your brother was not delusional in the least and I am sure all he
told you was true.  I called for the second boat to come along side and for
Odo to join us.  While that was happening, I told him all of the boys that
we helped that day are now young men and most of them still in our service
as Argoanuts.  Twenty five of them are here with us.

"My brother made me promise to one day visit Parga and kiss the feet of the
Ganymede.  He also asked me to give up on the military life and seek a
profession that served the people.  I am not cut out for the priesthood or
politics."

You must still visit Parga but not to kiss my feet or those of the statue,
to enjoy our hospitality.  As to service, give yourself some time, you will
find your calling, what ever that is.  In the mean time, stick close to
Captain Arno, for I judge him a fine man who is much like the General.  He
will guide you.

"After today, he will not want me."

I think you are wrong Raffaele.  The reason he corrected you as he did,
told me he cares much for you and your men.  Otherwise he would not have
bothered.  Why do you think he asked you to convey a message to the
General?  My understanding (TN: Arden wrote exactly that.  I was tempted to
translate it "my take on it".)  is he wanted to send a message to you, he
still trusted you, mistake or no.  He could have chosen someone else or
just ask us to deliver it, but he chose you.  My Father told me, others
will be loyal to us, if and only if, we are loyal to them.  King Iason is
fond of giving opportunities to people, just to see what they will do with
them.  So far, you are making good use of the opportunity to get to know me
and my family.  Do you know the city well?

"Yes, very well."

Do you see another opportunity here?

"Uh, you and your party need a local guide perhaps."

And.

"Uh, I could be of service to you if you trust me enough."

"Good," Volos interjected, "When we get to the General's, I will have Odo
write to Captain Arno, telling him we are holding you with us as guide and
will return you on our return, in about two weeks time."

By this time Odo showed up.  After introductions, he began telling stories
and reciting poems.  Soon we were all singing his songs, much to the
delight of the boatmen who had been mostly excluded from our earlier
conversations.  Once our boat began singing the other two followed.

The General is very old looking.  I guess he is old too.  He can no longer
get around as he once did.  Iason presented him with one of the little
bronze statues of the Ganymede, which he set in a place of prominence.  The
general was much taken by Raffaele's brothers death.  He knew every one of
his officers and told Raffaele how much he respected the brother and what a
fine officer he was.  This really impressed the young man.

Florence is a lovely city but it is a city never the less.  The River Arno
is wide and gentle, as it flows through the place.  A great wall with
several gates surrounds the city's heart.  It is filled with large plazas,
markets, government and church buildings.

Captain Arno arrived after a couple of days.  By then we were all good
friends.  I could see that the General had a real liking for Raffaele.  The
young man was good to his word too.  He worked very hard to impress us and
the General.

We did get some privet time with Captain Arno.  He told us his work would
soon be done here and he would return to Parga with the General, probably
in the spring.  "With the General," Kastor asked?  "Yes with the General.
He is not comfortable here any longer and I promised to escort him to
Parga.  He and I feel it would be best for his health.  He still receives
much pressure to come out of retirement and command again."

Odo's mother is a very pleasant woman and she did everything in her power
to see we were all well cared for.  She was also very proud of him.  She
offered to arrange professional services for any of us who desired it.
Winking and saying, "I still have some influence you know."  I do not know
if any one else took her up on the offer.  For myself, I did not.

Just before we were scheduled to leave the General sent Raffaele with a
message.  When he returned he had a smile on his face that just radiated.
Raffaele was promoted to the rank of Full Lieutenant and assigned as his
personal aid.  A job Captain Arno had held until recently.  One of the
perks of his retired status is having an aid of his choice, provided by the
army.

I now understand, after spending several weeks here, why Karyakos is so
disturbed by the rise of powerful religious orders in Florence.  I can see
how their rivalry is fracturing the society, pitting one group against the
other.  It is also clear that relatively small groups, such as bankers and
nobles, struggling among themselves for power and greater influence, are
also fractious.  Like Venice, Naples and Rome the disparage between rich
and poor only seams to grow.  Art, music, education and sound medical care
are enjoyed by a relative few.  A middle economic class does seam to be
forming.  What this means for the future is still unknown.  We cover this
in great detail in our joint journal.

We had no incidents on our return to the Prince Arden.


1318, 5th month, 21st day:

Genoa turned out to be a very interesting place.  It is a republic, city
state.  The elected leadership, its council, is controlled by the business
men of the place.  In these republics, the local bishop has his power and
influence tempered by the civil government.  A number of powerful families
have and continue to case much fraction between.  Like Florence, it seams
to grow and prosper in spite of it.  Mostly I think, because they are able
to garner wealth from other places, not from within, like Parga.  We were
treated well enough and welcomed.  Since their major trade routs east, are
from Syrakuse to Krite and Constantinople, we see relatively few Genoese
ships in Parga.

These people are pleasant and superficially friendly.  Like some we
encountered in Byzantium, they are not truly interested in us as a place or
people.  We are to small and to isolated to be of any use to them.  Unlike
some others, they seam less interested in control, than in extracting
wealth from others.  That does not mean they are not interested in control
but only of that which yields the greatest profit.  Like Venice, they play
lip service to spreading the faith.  They are more interested in trade,
their source wealth, then politics or religion at this time.  They seam
prepared to trade with anyone, even those that would try and cheat them.

Our joint journals cover this in greater detail.  My personal view is
highly skeptical.  I see most of these states, Venice included, as
interested in some kind of perpetual growth.  They seam to believe the only
way to achieve profit is through continued expansion of enterprises, power
of all kinds, population and so on.  Small island states, understand their
constraints.  We recognize ours.  That does not mean we have no interest in
improving the well-being of our citizens.  It is to say, we realize that
this simply can not be done in the same way.

I think I see another business opportunity in all this.  Since Parga is a
secure place and not much effected by the ambitions of others, perhaps we
can offer some service as a repository for the portable wealth of others.
I will look into this when we return.

They run their city-state as if it is a business.  I see many parallels to
Parga, in that it appears to be efficent and orderly.  On closer
examination, much of the underlying and unseen foundation is lacking or in
poor repair.  Municipal waste removal and the distribution of clean water
is not even.  The place is not clean and it smells bad most of the time.
The markets are open and very busy but they seam to be overly crowded and
much garbage lay in heaps behind the facades.  Vermin are common and flies,
mosquitos and flees seem everywhere.  We must bath and clean our clothing
before leaving the land, for our ship.  We make much use of nardus in all
its forms.  (TN: Lavender) It smells better than many other things and
assists greatly in keeping the insects away.

The use and abundance of draft animals in the city, is a cause of much
discomfort.  The country side is much nicer and much more like Venice, once
away from the harbor areas of either.  Few forests remain but the fields
are neat and well tended.  The soil looks to be productive, the young crops
seam be to growing well.  They maintain a large army but much of that army
is employed elsewhere.  This is well covered in our travel journal.

Few of the places we have visited are as clean as Parga, and none of the
peoples encountered are as clean as we are.  I am told climate has much to
do with this.  In the cooler places, bathing is much more problematic,
especially in the winter.  I still find this strange.  We believe
cleanliness is a source of good health.  Apparently some others do not.
Not that they do not bath, just much less frequently.  I am told the
decline in the use of public baths was result of being greatly discouraged
by the Christine Church.  Apparently that attitude has moderated in recent
times but they are not as popular as in old Greek and Roman times or as in
Parga today.

As for laundry, except in households with sufficient staff, it is done much
less frequently than in Parga.  We frequently clean our teeth with a small
brush, using some of the ground up rocks that occur near Apollo's
temple. (TN: probably sodium or some other bicarbonate) Most of the wealthy
and nobles seam to be reasonably clean and their breath is not overly
offensive.  They seam not to use soap as much as we.  (TN: see
http://www.godecookery.com/mtales/mtales08.htm for a short, interesting but
geographically restricted modern look back on the daily life of this time.)

We shave our underarms and trim greatly our pubic hair, which helps keeping
the body oder manageable.  Now that we are older, most of us have small,
well trimmed beards and mustaches.

Neither Genoa, Pisa or Florence have universities as yet.  The Florentines
tell us they do have a few good schools and one is expected to be
classified as a university, later this year.  For university training,
Genoese and Pisans need go elsewhere.  That is costly and only the
privileged can do that.  We met a number of young men that openly expressed
envy of us, having a university so close at hand and state supported at
that.  Pisa is much closer to several universities, as is Florence.  I take
it the merchant class is not all that interested in higher education and
would rather put money into the military, which has the potential of
showing a return, by renting their services or expanding the size, tax
base, of the state.  They do have schools and guild apprenticeship programs
but just not degree granting institutions.

Most of the scholars and learned men we met in these places, were connected
in one way or another to the church.  Guilds of these places are more
powerful than those of Parga.  We did not get much chance to speak with
most and those we did meet, seamed more interested in protecting their
profit margins and status, than anything else.  The populations of these
cities seams to be increasing year over year.  This growth does not seam
managed or planned.  I was not impressed with any of this.

I was impressed by the bright young men and women we had social
interactions with.  Each of us will take on one or more, from different
places, to continue correspondence with.  Most will never visit Parga and
we will not likely visit them again.  Our fathers and uncle still
correspond with some they met on their journey.  Many of those people have
been and will be our hosts in part.  Odo calls them "pen friends."

One thing I have learned, once in a social setting: sports, drinking,
making music and so on, most of the young people we have met, are just like
us.  They all expressed the same general concerns, fears and hopes, that we
have.  I think because we are from away, they feel more at ease to express
themselves to us.  Had we more time I am sure we all would make many close
friends, in every place we visit.

On the non official level, they are as interested in learning about us as
we were about them.  We laughed at each others stories and empathized with
each others tribulations.  Many have expressed a desire for the kind of
adventure they believe we are enjoying.  I can understand that.  I suspect
most will never have chance to experience it.  For that I am saddened.
Odo's poems and songs were always greatly admired, if not always believed.
Naked, we are all the same.

Adventure is not for everyone.  Abernath and Perum are good examples of
that.  They are content with their situation in a general sense.  They both
have parts of their lives they would see modified or adjusted but not
largely changed.  For me, I need the challenge of the new and unexpected.
If I find no challenge, I must seek else or create one.  That is the way I
am, that is me, Arden.

I am not dissatisfied with my place or the place I am making for myself.
It is one of privilege and purpose.  As long as I can find challenges large
or small to keep it interesting, I will be happy.  In one way or another
most of my brothers are like me.  Not as extreme but they too dieser the
challenge to test themselves against.  Adventure is different for each of
us as well.  For some the best adventure is that of the mind, for others it
is in risk and doing.  For me, some balance between.

I am in great need of a long run.  I hope to do this soon but Genoa is not
a good place.  Perhaps some of the French or Spanish ports will offer
better.  Except in Venice, I have not found anyone to run with.  Fencing
and archery, sometimes boxing and wrestling but not running.

Panther is showing some very strong leadership and organization skills.  Of
late he has been organizing some competitions between the sailors and
marines and within the groups.  His most successful has been within the
Marine Archers.  He has been using the second dial on the experimental
clock, to time the number of accurate arrows delivered, in a given length
of time.  The standard is 12 per minute, if the archer is in excess of a
minute the arrow number is multiplied by the number of seconds in excess
and added to 12.  He stands his men on the quarter deck and they shoot at a
man sized target, placed at the farthest point of the forecastle.

If the arrow misses the target, 5 points are added for each.  If the arrow
strikes on the top, bottom or margins, 3 points are added.  If the arrow
strikes in the center, chest area 1 point is subtracted.  If more than 12
arrows are shot, the number is multiplied by 5 and that is subtracted from
the score.  If they are accurate the number of points: 5, 3, or 1 is
subtracted from the score, in reverse order.  He uses the "far see" to
judge.  The lowest score possible is 24 without bones points subtracted,
and many achieve it.  Those that don't are encouraged to lower their scores
by practice.  The incentive to achieve 24 is an extra cup of wine for 5
days, until the next retest.  If the archer can achieve 5 scores below 24
in each round of ten, he is awarded a small marksmanship flash for his
uniform.

I think this is very cleaver.  I asked Hermogenes if it was Panther's idea
or his.  He told me Panther's mostly.  The wine reward was his suggestion.
The game is so successful that he will soon need buy wine, as our supply
will be inadequate.  I want us and the Argoanuts to give this game a try
but we will only shoot for bragging rights.  Iason thinks the us and the
Argoanuts should also get marksmanship awards.

I am so happy to be with my beloved Iason and our brothers.  Not just for
the physical pleasures but for their companionship and conversation.  Small
disagreements and disputes are common, this is normal, it is no different
then being home.  Among us ten, fifteen different opinions on any topic are
common.  We are always testing ourselves against the others, which serves
all to strive for better.  Harsh words between are uncommon; gentle and
affectionate words, good natured teasing, common.  We now know each others
strengths, weaknesses, preferences and dislikes, as if our own.  The only
danger I see is assuming our brothers' thoughts are the same a our own.
Sometimes we must remind each other, the need to be respectful between
remains.

Iason and I are both natural leaders.  Others follow us.  Our guardians and
steward from, duty, love and respect.  Kastor and Poly for the same reason
Iason and I can coexist, both with the same natural talent.  We love and
respect each other as they do, that each pair is in fact one.  Between
pairs are the same as between the pair parts.

I must end this now as Damao and Heron have decided I need their full
physical and emotional attention, me thinks the pleasure will be largely
mine.


1318, 6th month, 15 day:

On leaving the court of James III of Valencia, we proceeded south toward
the Pillars of Hercules.  We were attacked by four Ottoman Corsairs,
pirates to us.  This is all well covered in our official journal and the
ships log.  I have some privet thoughts on this and wanted to lay out my
own feelings and ideas.  This was also our most exciting adventure thus
far.

On the 12th day, we were mid way between Almerio and Malaga, along the
Andalusian coast.  We were sailing well off shore in the Alboran Sea.  The
winds were not the most favorable but we were making a reasonable rate.  We
had a breeze from the north east.  Our intention was to make the passage
through the Pillars of Hercules and use the stars to guide us west and
north.  In the late morning we saw what looked like two sails heading south
east, toward us.  Hermogenes did not show much concern, this is a well
traveled trade route.  About one hour later he became more concerned.

The second officer had been calculating and informed him that the ships and
out course would soon intersect.  Hermogenes called for the "far see",
Panther brought it to the quarterdeck.  I came up to gather some
"usefulness" information, for my report.  The instrument proved to be even
more useful than I had suspected.  When trained on the merchants, it became
clear that not two but four ships were heading toward us and while we could
not see their flag, it was also clear to him they were North African and
that indicated pirates.

When I looked at them, I was amazed at how much closer they appeared and at
the amount of detail I could resolve.  He summoned Admiral Pantaleon and
the other princes.  The Admiral and the others also looked through the "far
see". (TN: The quotation marks are the translators, in relation to the "far
see".)

Hermogenes called for all the additional sail possible.  He had the kannons
uncovered and prepared for use, the catapults and large cross bow readied.
We were told to get our armor and bows.  He estimated we had about three
hours to prepare for a fight.  Admiral Pantaleon was asked if he wished to
take command.  This he refused but he did stay close to Hermogenes, I
assume to give advice.

The general consensus was, the pirates wanted to intercept the Prince Arden
and take us hostage.  That was not going to happen. They may intercept us,
we were not about to be taken hostage by anyone.  Iason and Kastor wanted
to turn and fight.  Poly and I thought we should try and out run them, if
it came to a fight, than it came to it.

Now I understood all of the training and drills.  One of the sailors
appeared on the quarter deck with his drum and began giving drum signals.
Every marine and sailor seamed to know exactly what to do.  The second and
third officers were in command of the fore deck.  The marine captain in
command of the center and Hermogenes, and the second officer along with
Panther on the quarter deck.  Signals were passed between the three parts
of the ship, by mirrors.  Suddenly all the Argoanuts reported to the
quarter deck armed and ready.  Ikaros and Panther brought our armor and
weapons to us.

Hermogenes did not seam to be giving any orders but it was clear that as
the range was being called out, the officers either did or did not, do
different actions.  The Argonaut archers and ourselves were under the
command of Corrado and the second officer.  The second officer was also in
command of the kannons, cross bows and catapults.

The pirates were approaching us at about a 30 degree angle.  I estimated
they would not in fact intersect us but fall about a stadia short, perhaps
more.  As they got closer, it became obvious this was to be, but none moved
or adjusted their positions.  None except the catapults in the rear portion
of the ship, that is.  They continuously adjusted their angles.

When the little fleet was about 2 stadion from the Prince Arden, we archers
were commanded to prepare.  We formed into three ranks, the first rank was
to shoot and drop to our knees, allowing the second to shoot and then the
third.  The first would then rise shoot again and so on.

It was clear now, that the Prince Arden was not only faster than they were,
in spite of their oars, we were also had a greater freeboard, length and
much higher forecastle and quarterdeck.  The Quarter deck and fore deck,
being much above them, we would be shooting down.  They, when in range, up.
How they planed to board us I could not tell.  Given their oars they can
not come along side without loosing half of their propulsion.  Given the
higher bow and stern I could see no easy way for them to board.

It was clear also that two of the pirates were ahead of the other two.  The
two lead ships wanted to fall in behind us, one on either side, in the
hopes of catching up and boarding us.  Probably by ramming our stern.  I
still did not see how this was to work.

The second officer told us, rapid fire was not important but accurate aim
was.  He wanted us to make every shot count.  The lead ship was tracking
toward our port side, the second toward our starboard.  One would try and
ram us, which ever got close enough, he told us.

It looked like the port galley would try first.  That would mean the lead
ship, the port galley, would cross our line of fire over the stern exposing
his length to us.  They would need drop their sails just before ramming.
Normally galleys will drop their sails earlier in the battle, they needed
all the propulsion they could get to catch us.

A sailor was using the range finder and continuously calling out the
distance.  We already knew the direction and strength of the wind.  They
were now exactly two stadia and when maximum exposure was achieved, the
officer gave the order to shoot.  The first row had already picked targets
and did so, dropping to their knees.  I was in the second row and we
quickly adjusted our targets, as many of the fist volley found home.  I
picked, what looked like an officer in the fore part of the pirate galley.
Shoot he commanded and shoot I did.  My arrow found home as did another.
And so it went.  Just as they were about to change their line to parallel
us, several arrows of the third row took out the men on their steering oar.
They overshot and became visible to the catapults on our starboard side and
being in range, were immediately set alight.  Now our attention was turned
to the second ship on the Port side.

These oarsmen were rowing hard, as hard as they possibly could and I could
see they were beginning to gain on us.  I wondered how long they could
possibly continue pulling at that pace.  The second pirate ship, that had
intended to take us on the starboard side, was now directly behind us, in
our wake but three stadion behind.  Being in our wake would give them
smoother water but at the moment the starboard vessels was Hermogenes''
most concern.

Now that they were exposing their side to us we began shooting arrows at
them.  It looked as if they wanted to pull along side but far enough away
not to have interference with their oars.  Then they would try and ram us
in the side but toward the stern.  They were still to far away to return.
The marines moved a large mobile cross bow in position on the quarter deck.
it was so large that a crank device was needed to draw it back.  The bolt
fitted into it was ten times the thickness of our arrows and it was as long
as my long bow.  We had to move aside to allow it room.  The end of the
bolt was not an arrow point but a wide metal device that looked like
several knife blades.

The marines shot several of these devices at the ship directly behind us.
I could see no effect at first but soon noticed large rips appearing the
sails.  Next a small catapult was moved to replace the cross bow.  It began
launching large glass balls into the air, the first one missed, Hitting the
water just before the ship, it burst into a great ball of fire.  The
second, and third balls hit the ship and its entire front portion was now
in flames.  On fire, it began dropping further and further back.

The two other ships on the port side were still coming on strong but their
arrows were falling short.  Now that they were visible to the archers in
the middle portion of the Prince Arden they began shoot at them.  We
noticed some of the pirates were climbing ropes into the rigging and we
began shooting at them.  Pyrros and Heron being the most effective of our
group.  Once in range of our large side mounted cross bows, which are so
large that it takes two man craning on the wenches to pull it back,
sections of the gunwale, that ran along the deck were removed.  The armed
bows were moved up and before the pirates could react; the bows shot what
looked like logs at them.  These logs are designed to stave in the hulls.
These seamed to work as the nearest ship began to fall back, although it
did not appear they were sinking.

The undamaged pirate ship continued to chase us for another hour but to no
effect and they broke off about the 14th hour.  By then we were all sent
below to rest and refresh ourselves.  The marines and seamen from the bow
and amidship came to the stern area to fill in for us.

I had only once before, shot a man with my bow.  I have only once before,
killed a man with my sword.  Killing with a bow is much less upsetting than
with a sword.  I could not see his eyes or hear his voice.  It was not
personal.  Everyone is happy and satisfied except me.  I am glad, none of
us were hurt or killed.  I am glad, no damage was sustained by the Prince
Arden.  I am glade, that we acted professionally and with courage.  I am
not happy or glad, that other men lost their lives.

I know they would have had little or no remorse, if any of us were killed.
I know that if captured our lives would have been much effected.  I know by
doing what we did, it protected ourselves and our ship.  It was my duty and
I did it with pride and diligence.  That does not mean I need be glad of
killing other humans.  In fact, I am not glad of killing animals.  At the
very least, when I kill an animal, it is used for food and hide.  Its life
is sacrificed for the benefit of myself and others.  Killing these men
benefited no one, at least not directly.  These lives were sacrificed for
what end?

I just do not understand this.  I do not understand much.  These pirates
are so called privateers.  They are paid from what they plunder.  They are
chartered or sponsored by their home port or government.  The French and I
assume others collect a tax from them as well.  This attitude or thinking
of others, that some how they have right to what others have worked to
produce, or that they are entitled to power they have done nothing to earn,
is beyond my understanding.  That it is proper or nobel or anything except
loathsome, to extort wealth or demand tribute or bribes, simply to keep the
peace.  (TN: here Arden is equating pirates with certain states) I know it
is an ancient and temporarily successful way of doing business.  I think it
rather foolish my self.  History also shows that those who practice this,
can not be trusted and become dependent on this form of income, rather than
build from within.  This to me is little more than greed and avarice taken
to an extreme.  It may be might but it can never be right.

I know of no philosophical argument, that properly explains, that which we
know to be true, might makes right or might is all.  I know only a thousand
justifications.  We make a thousand excuses why another's life has less
value than our own.

The Admiral and Captain praised us, every one, for the quality of our
efforts.  We can and should be proud, every one, no matter how great or
small a contribution, for having done our duty well and faithfully.  In the
Admirals and Captain's reports, we princes and our guardians were singled
out for both leadership and performance.  I take pride, as do my brothers,
in it.  In my heart, I know we did noting greater than others.  What we
did, we did well, to the best of our abilities, so did everyone else.
Princes are excepted to excel.  Our family does not expect this nor our
council.  We expect ourselves to give a full measure and that we all do.

For me, the most important thing was said by a young seaman.  At first he
spoke so quietly I need read his lips, to know it was me he addressed.  He
thanked me for giving him the courage he needed.  I think he was
embarrassed to admit it.  I was mystified by this.  How is that, I
questioned?

He looked around to ensure know one else could hear.  I was afraid, never
having been in battle before.  I could not move.  When I saw you and the
other princes on the quarterdeck, bow in hand, I could do little else but
follow your example.  If you were not afraid, I should not be either.  I
smiled, I too was afraid but when I looked around, gained my courage from
all of you.  I am by circumstance the honorary captain of the Prince Arden,
I could do little else but some small part in its protection.

"Prince Arden, you are our honorary captain and most deserving; you and
your brothers all earned the greatest respect by your conduct on our
eastern cruse.  Today you earned that title and much more in the hearts of
all its' crew.  We sailors and marines never understood why the Argoanuts
were so dedicated to these young princes, now we know.  When the story
spreads through the fleet, your brother princes, for their named vessels,
also."

I have asked Odo to make up a song for the Prince Arden, so its adventures
can be remembered and shared.  I think Hermogenes is correct, the Prince
Arden does have a spirit, unique to itself.  I hope it is my spirit and it
serves its company well.

The light was fading badly as we passed the Pillars, our next port of call
will be Lisbon.  My brothers are now calling me to join them and I do so
much need one of their stiff penises in my rectum and Iason's kisses on my
lips.


1318, 6th month, 21st day:

Today we arrived in Southampton.  We will travel by land to meat our host
in this place.  While in Lisbon we met with some of the Portuguese
shipwrights.  They were much impressed with the Prince Arden, as we were
with the vessels they are building.  Mostly they are constructing large
merchant ships, they tend to be shorter and much wider, with less sail.
Admiral Pantaleon and the ingegneres were most impressed with what they are
doing with square sails.  Not with that fact or their size but with the
rigging system.  They are developing some very interesting rigging
arrangements and equipment to overcome the difficulty of setting and
controlling them.  The triangular shape of our main sails, allows for
faster raising and lowering as well as ease of setting.  The Portuguese
have developed ways of making the square sales as quick as our triangular.

He purchased much of their hemp rope and iron attachments.  The ingegneres
want to redesign our main sails to be a combination of square and
triangular.  This could be done by modifying our main sail, with the use of
an upper arm that could fold, so when needed the triangular sail could
become a large square.  We can not get the needed cloth in Lisbon but it
and the large spar required, can be purchased in Southampton.  The
ingegneres insist that with the added area to catch wind we could be even
faster.

Here in Southampton we found excellent shipwrights and other skilled
artisans, who could do the required work.  It looks to me, a strong ship
building industry could easily be centered here; with good harbors and much
raw materials, such as forests close by.


1318, 6th month, 26th day:

We are to arrive in London and will be received by Edward II and his wife
on the 28th.  The Prince Arden will sail to London, as soon as its new
sails are installed.  All of this is explained in our joint journal.  LIke
my Iason, Edward held a Crown Prince's title before he was crowned.  He was
called The Prince of Wales.  The tail does not in fact have anything to do
with Edward II but it does involve an Edward.  Thinking back at how I am
writing things in this journal, I judge my tail of Lyuben to be well done,
so I will repeat the same narrative style.  As I gain experience at this, I
think writing things in story or narrative form is quite nice and I should
do more of it in the future.

When I began keeping these journals I had no clear idea of why I was doing
so, except to record my privet thoughts and impressions.  It expanded over
time to include things I judge important to remember.  Some time ago I
began including things I wanted to have clear facts and ideas about later
on, when the memories become clouded and merged between events and
happenings.  I think, should anything happen to me, before I can teach my
sons and beloved boys, they can turn to these records and learn what I was
thinking and why I thought it.

We managed to hire horses for our journey, from the Duke of Sussex's court
in Clintchester, a short sail south east, on a small boat, which we also
hired.  We crossed the west central part of his realm on our way to London.
This is an ancient Kingdom which is mostly forested in the west.

We were fortunate, the Duke desired to send a goodly string of animals to
his holdings on the north side of the "county". (TN: The quotation marks
are mine.  Sussex is an ancient kingdom that has always been about the size
of today's, modern county of Sussex.  I was surprised to see Arden use this
term, but he did and in Middle English.)

It is clear that these people had suffered in the recent famine but not as
badly as those further north, we were told.  After almost 4 days of riding
and nearing our destination, we took opportunity of a warm afternoon and a
gentle stream, to bath.  Given our numbers we did not stay in any inn or
even barns.  While some of us swam and bathed, others prepared hot food and
still others stood on guard or tended the horses.

While we were swimming and enjoying ourselves, Odo was summoned by Corrado,
his translation services seamed required.  We saw nothing unusual, so
continued to swim.  When we came from the river, expecting others to take
our place and us theirs, we were surprised that no one moved.  All seamed
to be formed in a circle around something that we could not see.  I could
hear Odo speaking in the local language but had no idea what it was he was
saying.  We dressed and on approaching, the circle of Argoanuts parted.  In
the center were three boys being held by three Argoanuts, Corrado and Odo.

These three looked badly, they were dirty, poorly dressed, if you can call
it dressed, very thin and gaunt looking.

"Princes, we caught these three trying to steal our food," One of the
Argoanuts reported.  I looked at Odo.  "Arden they have not eaten in four
days and..."  I stopped him, looked at Corrado but before I could say
anything, Iason boomed, "not eaten in 4 days?"

Kastor held up 4 fingers and the oldest boy nodded yes.  Poly turned to the
nearest Arrogant saying, "do you need an order or will a simple request be
sufficient?"  That Arrogant and two others immediately turned and fetched
some soup and flat bread.  Before they could return the smallest boy
collapsed in a heap and Iason immediately scooped him into his arms.  The
oldest brother was about to attack Iason but was being held fast.

Odo spoke to him, I assume telling him Prince Iason would not harm the boy.
He settled a bit as Iason sat on the ground holding a child of 8, at most,
in his arms and stroking his head.  The food arrived and a bowl was handed
to Iason, who began feeding the lad.  Seeing this the other two took the
offering and sat close to Iason and their brother.  I assumed at the time,
they were brothers.  That proved to be so.

Odo and Corrado began explaining what had take place before our arrival.
It took several offerings of soup and much bread before they were filled.
Poly sent the next group for their baths and our guardians became the camp
guards.  Odo told us they said they were orphans, forced from their home,
after their father died from wounds, he received at the hands of the local
Sheriff's men.  That was a month ago and the boys have been living in the
woods, begging food from travelers or eating what they could find growing
wild.

Kastor could not believe this but he was good to our training and only made
privet comments to us.  None kind, all apparently true.

When the boys had finished eating, the little one wanted away from Iason;
however, Iason did not want to release him.  Odo came to interrupt.  We
learned their names: Edward, William and Alfred.  We all introduced
ourselves to them, with so many new strange sounding names we did not
expect them to remember.

Odo convinced Alfred, the youngest, to remain still and let Prince Iason
see that he is being kept safe.  Odo explained, as much as he could, the
oldest Edward did most of the talking.  Soon more food was brought for us
and our guests.  I knew Iason had won the little one over, as the boy was
being fed by him, from his own bowel.  Edward told us, Alfred missed his
father greatly, he had cared for them, as best he could, after their mother
died.

I could see Kastor and Polydeukus were of much interest to Edward and
William, who have never seen identical twins before.  After a while Odo
summoned Ikaros to assist.  The three princes and Ikaros would see that the
boys were properly bathed, since it was obvious they hand not been so in
some time.

Shortly, a pair of soldiers came into our camp.  Odo was summoned by Pyrros
and I went along.  These were not men of rank and while dressed the part,
did not impress me.  I think not Odo either.  He asked them who they were
and what business they had with the Princes of Parga.  I think they were
surprised that any of us could speak their language much less a boy.

Odo, I said, I want you to translate exactly what I say, addressed to these
men or others.  He did that.  The Greek speakers nodded understanding.  Sir
Pyrros, inform these men that if they wish to speak to this Prince or any
other here and receive any recognition, the proper level of respect need be
displayed.  Pyrros told them, my Prince wishes you to know that he would be
happy to speak with you but not until you dismount and display the usual
respect for his office.  Odo translated both as I had instructed.  It was
clear they were getting the meanings of things.  In a flash, the men were
on the ground, bowed and kissed my ring.  I smiled.  This play acting is
not so hard, I thought.

I am Prince Arden of Parga.  My brothers, our guardians and escort are
traveling from Southampton to London, where we are to be guests of King
Edward II.  We are to deliver these fine animals to the Duke of Sussex's
northern estate steward, in the morning.  I am sure the Duke's message,
announcing our arrival has been delivered, the dispatch rider carrying it
passed us several days ago.  Odo translated this one sentence at a time.
By now Volos, Heron and Silas were also standing behind me.

One of them said, his lord the Sheriff, wishes us to welcome you and offer
any assistance you may require.

I thanked the Sheriff and themselves, but no, we were fine and they need
not bother with us.  One of the men said they had reports of three
scoundrels lurking in the area and causing much trouble for travelers.  I
took that to be the three boys.  If that is how they treat orphans and
refer to starving children begging for food as scoundrels, I thought, I
wanted no further business with the lot.

Thank you, we have not seen any scoundrels as yet, thinking except for you
two, if we do, I am sure my guardians will remove them.  They mounted and
road away.

While this was going on the boys were in hiding.  I did not know that but
Iason told me they saw the two solders and were much afraid.  Odo learned,
one was the man that had wounded their father.  The other had turned them
out of their shelter after his death.  Odo said, "Edward wants us to teach
him to shoot a bow so he cold kill them."

Ikaros told him, even better, he would teach him to use a sword, "it is
much better, you can see the man's eyes as you draw back the blade."

When I told everyone what was said about scoundrels, a mighty laugh rose
up.

Kastor then announced, "then they must come to Parga with us, it is not
safe here."  Don't you think you should offer them a choice, I asked?

"What choice do they have brother, starve or come under our protection?"

This is not Parga, we can not just go around collecting the citizens of
other places, taking them home, unless they wish to go.  Odo was
translating all this and I think putting in a lot we did not say.  I turned
to Edward and asked his age.  He held up ten fingers and then three more.
Thirteen, I said in Greek.  Thirteen he repeated also in Greek.  I smiled.

"Old enough to decide," Kastor said.  "He can also decide for his younger
brothers," Poly added.  By this time Alfred was in Iason arms clinging to
him, so I figured he just voted.  I looked at Edward and William, your
decision is?

"I choose to come," Edward said and William nodded in agreement.

Ikaros, I called, please find some clothing and the barbers for our new
protectorates.

We have done it again.  I can not explain how this happens but it just
seams too.  The light was now fading; by dark the boys all had haircuts and
were dressed as Argoanuts.  They looked like they belonged with us.  Their
flaxen hair and blue eyes fit right in, as many of us are the same.  Alfred
is a bit young but no matter.

We placed the three brothers together on our sleeping platforms.  It seamed
that Alfred was not happy with this until he was sure he knew where Iason
was and that he would be sleeping close at hand.  My beloved has a way with
the young ones, their is no doubt to that.

This time the new passengers were taken to the captain on arrival and
introduced.  He did not say anything accept to enter three new names in his
log, as Argoanuts requites.  Odo told the boys that we must do our business
in this place.  That would mean we would not be around much for the next
week.  They must stay on the Prince Arden while we are away and they must
not talk to anyone who visits.  They should not know you speak your
language and that you do not speak much Greek, he told them.  (Translator's
Note: Commoners would have spoken Anglo-Saxon that was influenced by Norse
and French.  The aristocracy would speak mostly Middle French.  The Middle
English of the late 14th Century was forming at this time but was not yet
fully so. These boys would not have spoken much if any French.  The nobles
they met would, but little Anglo Saxon.  This must have presented some
problems for Odo.)

Panther was assigned to look after the new boys, keep them busy, out of
mischief and teach them to speak Greek.  Edward and William were given
sleeping places with the Argoanuts but Alfred was placed with the Admiral
and our Guilds.  He was given the title of cabin boy and since a cabin boy
needed to stay in the cabin he was responsible for, it mollified him some.
After all Panther and Ikaros stayed in the cabins they looked after.  He
also seamed quite proud that he was given a real job to do.  Old men and
young boys seam to have some kind of automatic bond and in short order
Alfred made friends.  I think he looked at Pantaleon as a grandfather.  I
think Pantaleon liked that role.

While in London, we learned that the Prince Arden had gained a mighty
reputation.  Sailors, mostly officers, from every port imaginable, came to
see us.  More accurately, the now fabled Prince Arden.  Having defeated and
sunk three of the most feared north African pirates, in the same battle,
was news in every port from Denmark to Constantinople.  It apparently
spread very quickly too.

Of the 50 ships in this port, I can say not one is anything like the Prince
Arden.  None were as large or as sleek.  None had three masts.  The news
was more rumor and tail, than truth.  The stories were being told and
retold, much is gained and lost in the telling.  It was also from the view
point of the vanquished.  I suspect, it depends on how much ale is
consumed, at the time.  How the pirates knew the name of our ship and that
we four princes were aboard, was never made clear.

Since the Prince Arden shares its name with me, it was assumed that the
"boy prince" was in its command.  I noticed the Admiral and Hermogenes did
little to correct this misinformation.  "Let them think what they will
brother, the greater their fear and respect the less trouble for us.  If
they think you command dragons and are a sorcerer, all the better," Kastor
announced.  I suspect the sailors, marines and officers were free with the
facts as well.  I know they boasted that their prince was on the
quarterdeck for the entire time of the battle.  That is true but I know
several left out that also were my brothers and that we were all part of
the archers.

Even King Edward II paid a personal visit to the Prince Arden, chiding us
for our modesty.  He also recognized the name Arden as Welch and wondered
how it got to Parga.  He was much amused when I told him and more than
surprised at our abilities with the Long Bow.

I could see, he was personally very interested in the technical parts of
our ship as well as the athletics the Argoanuts and Marines were
continually engaged in.  That is when I learned he too was a runner in his
youth and still much interested in athletics.  I understand he has great
personal interest in the mechanical arts of one kind or another but no one
was specific to me.

I could see right off he was a little more than interested in us, not as
people but as potential lovers.  Edward is a man who loves men, that was
clear.  I was just as happy he thought himself a little above us, being
from such a small and poor place.  He did look at me more than twice, being
taller than anyone else around and so beautiful.  Edward was a large and
muscular man, an imposing figure but not as tall as myself.  I made it
clear that Iason and I were lovers and this he seamed to understand.

What Odo learned, from talking to his pages, suggested he was not about
demanding them share his bed, when ever his current court favorite was not
available.  They also told him the king liked to party and entertain.  I
believe, had we a more common language, he would have spent much more time
in our company.

I know we are not supposed to judge but I can not restrain myself.  Father
and Uncle Iason had a great respect for Edward I.  They had much respect
for his leadership ability and his vision.  Apparently he was a reasonable
general.  When they visited, the Prince of Wales was only a small child, so
they did not know him at all.  The present Prince of Wales is only a small
boy and we did not meet him.

Edward II seams to be lacking something as a king, that's my view.
Demokritos told me he had inherited his father's war with Scotland and
displayed his ineptitude as a military leader. Disgruntled barons, already
wary of Edward as Prince of Wales, sought to check his power from the
beginning of his reign.  He raised the ire of the nobility by lavishing
money and other rewards upon his male favorites.  (Translator's Note: Such
extreme unpopularity would eventually cost Edward his life and his crown,
since he continued to do this.)

Edward I's dream, of a unified British nation, quickly disintegrated under
his weak son.  Baronial rebellion opened the way for Robert Bruce to
reconquer much of Scotland.  In 1314, Bruce defeated English forces at the
battle of Bannockburn and ensured Scottish independence.  Bruce also
incited rebellion in Ireland and reduced English influence to the confines
of the Pale.

Edward's apparent preference for surrounding himself with outsiders,
harkened back to the troubled reign of Henry III.  I am not that
knowledgeable about the history of this place to make a judgment for
myself.  If this is true, I suspect he does not know or understand his own
history.  Perhaps he knows it and is so caught up in what he thinks his
power is, he does not care.

The most notable was Piers Gaveston, a young Gascon exiled by Edward I, for
his undue influence on the Prince of Wales, they were lovers.  It was
Edward I that brought Gaveston to this place, as a companion for his son.
The arrogant and licentious Gaveston, wielded considerable power after
being recalled by Edward II.  The magnates, alienated by the relationship,
rallied in opposition behind the king's cousin, Thomas, Earl of Lancaster;
the Parliaments of 1310 and 1311 imposed restrictions on Edward's power and
exiled Gaveston.

It strikes me that the English and probably others have to much wealth and
are drunk with power; forgetting where the wealth and power originate from.

We discuss and explain this Parliament and its history in our joint
journal.  The barons revolted in 1312 and Gaveston was murdered - full
rebellion was avoided only by Edward's acceptance of further restrictions.
It is now 1318 and Edward II has a wife.  The pages told Odo he pays little
attention to her.  He must pay her some as he has two sons, Edward III who
is 6, another boy John who is 2 and a third child soon to be born.  His
wife, Queen Isabelle, is French.  We found her pleasant and gracious.

(Translator's Note: Although Lancaster shared the responsibilities of
governing with Edward, the king came under the influence of yet another
despicable favorite, Hugh Dispenser.  In 1322, Edward showed a rare display
of resolve and gathered an army to meet Lancaster at the Battle of
Boroughbridge, in Yorkshire. Edward prevailed and executed Lancaster.  He
and Dispenser ruled the government but again acquired many enemies - 28
knights and barons were executed for rebelling and many exiled.  He was
later deposed, forced to abdicate and killed.)

What I learned from Edward II's story is simply the same lessons Father and
Uncle have been teaching me all these years.  Sex and love are powerful
emotions and tools that require wise and careful application.  Nothing is
more important than fair, honest, leadership and dedication to duty.
Honors and rewards must be earned and deserved.  We have not been here long
enough to get a real picture of Edward II or his court to predict.  I am
not sure if he has learned his lessons or not.  From some of the comments
he has made to us, I think perhaps not.  Time will tell.

By the time we sailed for Denmark and Pomeranian ports the new boys had
their ears filled with Prince: Iason, Kastor, Polydeukus and Arden stories.
Primarily from Odo.  They were learning Greek quickly, mostly how to manage
living on a navy ship.  Since almost all the Argoanuts had faced this
learning problem, only a few short years ago, they proved a great help.

Alfred was truly just a young boy.  He was so take by Iason that when ever
possible he was in his presences.  He would follow my beloved around,
copying his every attitude, expression and gesture.  Hermogenes had to
insist that Alfred specifically and his brothers, not be referred to or
spoken to, in the diminutive, except for terms of endearment, until they
are fluent in our language.  That did not seam to apply to Pantaleon or the
other older men.  To them we are all still children, even the Captain.

Edward and William presented a minor challenge to Panther.  He needed to
find duties for them that offered some challenge but were within their
physical ability, language and skill level.  It did not take them long to
feel the need to contribute.  We found them most willing and eager to learn
and please us.  I looked forward to giving Edward his sex lesson on our
return, although I am sure others will have him well on that road before.

As we sailed for Amsterdam, to meet our northern waters pilot and on to
Denmark, the new square sail was tested.  Everyone seamed most satisfied
with the results.

(Translator's Note: The remainder of these entries are lost.  We are sure
they were written but nothing could be found for the remainder of the
voyage and for some months after.  Your translator was able to find the
joint journals that Arden talked about.  No hint of anything very exciting
takes place.  We can be sure Arden found material to write about.  If
nothing else, the princes and their new additions; about 15 names were
listed as new requites by the time the Prince Arden reached Parga.  Most
were between 14 and 17.  These boys came from Denmark, Sweden, Pomeranian,
Friesland, Holland, France and other duchies along the coast.  No mention
is made of pirates or other hostiles.  It did seam that all the coastal
states were in some kind of continual conflict with neighbors and others.)