Arden

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.)