Castle News

15-10-2009

Sir Trevor had ridden Beamer to a new assignment for the Lords of the Privy Purse. He was to assess the damage caused by flooding at a castle in the county of Blouberg. The county was famous everywhere for its awe inspiring sunsets from the beach.

It was not very far from their own county, and had a view of the mountain that resembled a table. Yesterday had seen a cloud covering resembling a tablecloth, on the top of the mountain. On sight of this our Knight and Lady knew, as did all in their county that it foretold strong winds and a change in weather.

Lady Cheryl hoped that it would soon blow over, as a banquet had been planned to celebrate her birth date.

Sir Peter, Lady Cheryl's firstborn had come to visit with his mother, she enquired if there was a Lady in prospect for marriage yet, only to be told that after a failed union some years before, he had no desire for a permanent partner, but preferred to play the field, living a rakes merry life. Sir Trevor always took his side, scolding our Lady for interfering. He suggested she leave him be, as he obviously was enjoying the life he led, and reminded her that he had been the same, prior to meeting her of course.

Castle News

13-10-2009

The day was wet and raining, dousing everything but, the colours of the castle gardens. They appeared more intense than usual. The fragrance of the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow blended beautifully with the jasmine and roses, Lady Cheryl's favourite plants.

Our Lady found it extremely difficult to tear herself away from the bay windows, where she could observe the antics of the birds and look into the castle mote.

She needed to assure herself that the crab had not returned. It really was most vexing, and had caused much trouble over the years. Every year they managed to catch it and return it to the river. You could put a wager on it that it would be back the following year. Our Lady feared for Sir Trevor bathing with the crab in the water, in case it nipped some bodily part of his with its strong nippers. So cheeky was this crab it had once been discovered in the entrance hall, clapping its nippers at Sorrocco, Lady Cheryl's pet cat, who had bristled with outraged, but was not prepared to tackle this strange creature.

Later in the day our Lady received a visit from Lady Anne. They had once been very close and dear friends. They shared many a trial and tribulation together. Of course, if one was completely honest, there were also times of great hilarity and naughtiness, for they were both wont to flirt outrageously, and had had quite a following of young bucks vying for their attention. The table in the hall was always filled with calling cards from the young men, hoping they might be invited back to call on one or the other of the Ladies.

Needless to say an end was put to all of that, and the bucks put to flight, after our Lady met Sir Trevor. She knew that non other than he could still he fire in her breasts. He was her one true love. He was at that time a minstrel of great talent, who sing a merry ditty or two whilst strumming his lute. He would always keep her entertained and send shivers down her spine. Oft it was that she yearned for him to sing again.

Castle News

14-10-2009

It had been a day filled with sunshine. Sir Trevor had left early on Beamer to go to the beach cottage. He had called for a carpenter to install a new larder, as Lady Cheryl had complained that damp had somehow spoilt the wood in the old one.

On his return to castle , he found the serving wench Lena, dithering about noisily. Unable to concentrate on his reports to the Lords of the Privy Purse, he set forth once more to assess further claims. Leaving Lady Cheryl in charge, ignoring the look of budding frustration on her countenance, at the shenanigans of Lena, he only did what most intelligent Knights would do. Disappear.

Later in the day he called his Lady, using the small device that had changed communications forever, he enquired about the meal for the evening. He soon realised that this had been a huge error, as Lady Cheryl let it be known, that at no time in the day had she had a moment to herself, and of a certainty had not yet thought of their repast for the night.

Our ever gallant Knight, once more, made haste to the inn, famous for its baskets of ocean fare. There he ordered fresh mussels in tangy sauce, prawns roasted over the coals, meat from the Octopus, crumbed and fried. All served on a bed of sweet yellow rice.

Putting a spur to Beamer, our Knight galloped home, whilst the picnic was still hot, and presented it to his Lady fair, who was not shy in showing her love her appreciation of his thoughtfulness. Together they feasted, licking their lips and sipping their mead from the Tall Horse.

Castle News

12-10-2009

Our Knight and Lady woke up feeling the effects of the physical activity the day before. Both were a little stiff, and to make matters worse, Sir Trevor was most disgruntled. The lamps he had so meticulously laid out the day before, were not working. They would not light at all. He would have to remove them and have them returned to the craftsman who had made them. He would rather seek out another lamp maker elsewhere.

Leaving the castle behind them our Knight and Lady rode to the marketplace to purchase sweetbreads and cakes from the bakery. They were a treat for Lord Gilbert, Sir Trevor's father. He had become frail and infirm after cracking a bone due to an accident. He was left unable to walk. There was no choice but for them to retire to a home designed specially for folk like themselves, with similar frailties. Here they would be cared for day and night. After spending time with them, our pair bid them farewell and returned to their castle.

Waiting for them they found Lady Rose and her children, so invited them to join them for supper. Lady Rose needed advice on hoe to deal with her rebellious daughter, the maiden Kirsten. Having just reached her teen years, she had become embroiled with entirely the wrong group of youths. Sir Trevor gently reminded her that she too, had done similar things at the same age, and she had turned out all right in the end. It was best to watch her closely without making her feel that she had turned bad, he advised. Much relieved Lady Rose returned to her home, thankful that she had a brother she could always count on.

Castle News

11=10-2009

The day had started early. A loud knocking on the castle doors, roused our Knight and Lady from their slumber. It announced the arrival of the man in charge of the castle's topiary. It was not long thereafter that Lady Cheryl's serving wench arrived followed by Sir Peter, Lady Cheryl's son. It was clear that no more sleep was going to be possible.

Many tasks were to be done before the end of this day. Sir Peter had come to assist Sir Trevor in bolstering up the bastion walls. Lamps needed to be placed in strategic places to be lit at night, when necessary. At the same time they knew the importance of situating the lamps in the right places, it had to be aesthetically pleasing, or they would incur the displeasure of Lady Cheryl. She insisted that nought should affront the eye.

Whilst the menfolk were busy outdoors, our Lady with her serving maid, Lena, riding pillion on The Grey, set off to the beach cottage. It was necessary to make sure it was clean and hospitable for future visits. Indeed with the sunshine dancing on the waves with the mountain in the background, the Island of Robin just visible, was pretty picture. The wreck of the Turkish ship, still lay stranded on the sandbank. It had become home to many seabirds who fought for the best spot to nest. The sound of children frolicking in the sand or flying their kites with their pet dogs bounding and barking at their heels filled the air.

Castle News

10-10-2009

Yesterday was the day for market. Sir Trevor had given his love extra pennies, so she could indulge in purchasing a new gown or two, and ribbons for her hair.

It was a most relaxing for our Lady, as the day before had been most stressful. Not even a visit to her favourite salon Hairven, had been able to soothe her troubled brow. Truth be told, trying on new gowns and blouses, pumps for her feet and choosing bright ribbons for her hair, was just the perfect remedy for her.

Paying for her purchases, she realised how well Sir Trevor knew her, for this time he did not bid her to hasten back to the castle, instead he urged her to take her time and to enjoy herself.

On her return to castle, she pirouetted in front of her Love. Showing off her latest acquisitions. In her bag there was also a birthday gift for his mother, the Dowager Dame Edwina. It was sleepwear perfect for the hot Summer nights and in a style suited to her. It went without saying that Lady Cheryl had not forgotten her Knight either. Out of the bag she pulled a new bathing hose and a new cloth of softest cotton to dry himself when next he went to bathe in the mote.

Castle News

09-10-2009

There was a flurry of activity in the castle. A page had arrived with a missive for Sir Trevor, from the Exchequer of the Realm. It seemed that the Tax Collectors had taken off with our Knight and Lady's taxes, and now the Exchequer was under the impression that they had committed a treasonable act. Stealing money from the rulers coffers.

Outraged at such an accusation, honest as the day was long, Sir Trevor Hastened forth directly to the offices of the Tax Collectors. Threatening the most dire of consequences if they failed to remedy the situation immediately. No sooner had he returned to the castle, when an apology was received via racing pigeon, absolving our Knight and Lady of all blame.

Later in the day, a new tournament of skill had begun in the Kingdom called India. This tourney was to be contested over twenty bouts a side. The Knights chosen were not the bravest or most skillful in the Land, but were made up of the best counties from each Kingdom.

The team representing our Kingdom, hailed from our own county of Cape Town. They were named The Cobras, after a venomous snake that thrived here. The Cobra was exceptional, it had the ability to open a hood around the neck, using this to hoodwink potential threats, that it was far larger than it actually was. It was its expertise in its lightning quick strike that inspired our Knights to adopt it as their namesake.

There was great joy expressed when our team won their bouts with six Knights still untested. Dancing troupes staged performances of note. Trumpets blared in celebration while the night sky was lit up with a dazzling display of fireworks. The fact that we had won against the home team made the victory all the sweeter. The next opponents to be faced hailed from the Land of the Long White Cloud. Their name? The Ortega Bolts.

Castle News

08-10-2009

Lady Cheryl kissed Sir Trevor adieu, and set forth on the Grey, to visit with her mother, Dame Athal Maria. Some time had passed since they had last seen one another. The reason for this was that Dame Athal Maria had been indisposed, suffering from a malady that had left her weak and exhausted.

As there was a plaque spreading throughout the world named after the pigs, (swine flu), which could be lethal , it was recommended not to mingle with anyone who showed even the mildest symptoms, so it was decided to quarantine the castle of the Dame and Lord James.

The joy felt by our Lady could not be properly expressed when Dame Athal Maria made a full recovery. As soon as she was allowed she had hastened to be with her mother. The ladies hugged and kissed it felt so good to be reunited. Sharing a pot of brew and a light repast, they reminisced on times gone past. Dame Athal Maria was much loved and admired, being soft of heart, with a gentle persona. Everyone who met her treated her like a delicate bloom. Now after her illness she was even more fragile.

On her return to the castle, Lady Cheryl found that Sir Trevor had left on Beamer, in order to assess damage that had occurred to a lodge, in the coastal resort of Muizenberg. The name meaning (Mouse Mountain). Seemingly the creatures inhabiting the caves and crevices were mistaken for giant mice, much later a botanist declared them to be Dassies, a rock rabbit that was in fact closely related to the Elephant.

On his return they partook of the delicious repast prepared by our Lady. A marvelous stew with dumplings set on a bed of fragrant white rice.

Castle News

07-10-2009

It was obvious that there was a storm approaching. The wind had been gusting around, playing havoc in the castle gardens.

Lady Cheryl was most distraught, as she scurried around tying back sweetpeas and picking up the bird feeders which had been blown out of the trees. Fortunately the dovecoats remained unaffected.

Lady Cheryl's pet cat, her darling Sorrocco, was also running amok, as if the Devil himself had invaded his body. It had become quite a feat simply walking from place to place, as he dodged between the feet of our Lady and Sir Trevor.

He had nearly been the undoing of Sir Trevor that very morn. Attempting to avoid stepping on Sorrocco, our Knight landed in the water bowl, splashing the smooth tiles, which instantly became as slippery as ice.

Sir Trevor was most disgruntled with Sorrocco and muttered suggestions, that perhaps, the cat should return to whence he had come. Lady Cheryl, having a somewhat macarbe sense of humour, stifled a giggle at the thought of her dapper Knight, sliding around the scullery floor.

Castle News

06-10-2009

The final Tourney took place yestereve. The two teams competing against one another for the ICC Chalice of Champions, were the Black Helmuts hailing from the Island of the long white cloud. Their indeginous warriors were most rude of manner and stuck out their tonques, whilst making obscene gestures at anyone who challenged them.

The challengers were the Austra Aliens, who had long been the thorn in the side of our team particularly. Descende from thieves and criminals, there was an air of unseemliness about them, that rankled. They always appeared unwashed, and insisted on chewing pieces of gum with open mouths, and then spat them out on the field of play. How uncouth. It seemed that their indigenous warriors were better behaved than them.

The event would be contested over fifty jousts, by eleven knights per team. Each one was chosen by a renowned group of experienced Knights from the respective Kingdoms, who had retired due to injury or age.

Needless to say it was better to support the Black Helmuts, now that our own heroes had been defeated earlier. Our woes were to persist though, as the Austra Asians were the victors on the night, beating the opposition with six Knights still unchallenged.

Twas in truth a bitter pill to swallow, but truth be told, one had to admire the worthiness of this team of Knights. Mayhap next time, our team would find victory in the tourney.

Castle News

05-10-2009

Sir Trevor and Lady Cheryl had spent the day tending to their gardens and frolicking in their mote, which had warmed up considerably. Our Knight and Lady had decided a while before to try new wizardry they had heard about. Calling in the wizard he began to work his magic. Causing the the water from the mote to rise up and flow over the castle roof, trapping the heat of the sun, thus warming the water.

Feeling an air of tropical bliss, Lady Cheryl coerced Sir Trevor into obtaining a rare orchid to add to her collection of exotic plants. With florettes of shimmering mango, the blooms had centres of deepest claret. It was a miracle of nature, deeply appreciated by our Lady.

Our Knight was not finished spoiling his loved one.At sunse he arranged a spit with food fit for a king and queen. Our lovers then spent time toasting each others accomplishments, whilst sipping a chalice of sweet rose wine. Finally they retired, with a smile on their countenances.

Castle News

04-10-2009

Lady Cheryl had an altercation with Lady Jowyn on the adjoining land to the castle. It had all come about because of a serving maid, in the employ of Lady Jowyn.

Lady Cheryl's groom had only just completed a full grooming of her favourite riding hack, The Grey (who was bred by the famous breeders Chrysler).

It was at this moment when the impertinent wench deposited the contents of the dust pail in the wind, thus covering The Grey, turning his glossy coat to dull and dirty grey.

Our Lady Cheryl, who was descended from good fighting lineage, whose ancestors had been granted Freedom of the City, for heroic deeds, was not one to stand down without a challenge.

Bristling with righteous indignation, she suggested the maid hurry back to her own castle.

Soon thereafter the Lady Jowyne called on Lady Cheryl to apologise for the crass behaviour of her serving wench, Nonetheless, feelings were very strained, until Lady Cheryl, being soft of heart, called on Lady Jowyne. She pointed out that friendship was after all, more important than spatting over a steed.

It was during this episode that Lord Trevor was noted for his abscence. He had deemed it most pertinant to remove himself, for he knew from past experience that there was no reasoning in womens logic.

Castle News

03-10-2009

Sir Trevor had ensured that his silver steed, Beamer, was well fed and watered prior to an arduous trip over the mountains, named after a tribe of people the Hottentots, who were no longer to be found. In fact the only trace of them, was found in cave paintings.

Our Knight had to travel to the county of Wolesley, a small community, near a magical place, Goudini. Here the the water spilled out of the earth, and was rumoured to have healing properties. The water was warm to the touch, even in the heart of winter, when snow was known to fall on the mountain peaks above, people were still able to bathe in the pools.

Unfortunately, Sir Trevor had no spare time to bathe in these healing waters.He knew he had not to tarry long, but to complete his business for the Lords of the Privy Purse, and then to return to Lady Cheryl, who waited for his return before seting out to market.

Castle News

2-10-2009

With the weather so warm and comforting, our Lady Cheryl, set off once more for Hairven, to be pampered and preened. It was a favourite time for our Lady as she enjoyed the merry gossip of the other Ladies, who frequented the salon.

Leaving one of her baubles of finest crystals there, for repair, she hastened back to the castle, to see if Sir Trevor had returned. He had once more journeyed on his silver steed Beamer, to the valley of the Pearl, to assess a claim for the Lords of the Privy Purse.

On her arrival, she found that yet again his services had been required elsewhere. Having built up a reputation for honesty and fairness, his services were often preferred to others. Indeed not so long ago, he had been inducted into a club of great standing. Known as Loss Adjustors, the members were few and far between. It was a great honour, fit for our Knight, who was always fair and noble when making his decisions.

Our Lady sighed in resignation, as she realised she would have to wait for his return, later that eve. Only then would she see if he approved of her latest hair adornments.

Castle News

1-10-2009

There had been disturbing news on the box with moving pictures. It would seem that following an earthquake, the sea had risen up to astonishing heights, and slammed into the coast of Somoa causing great devastation and loss of life.

Sir Trevor and Lady Cheryl deemed themselves very fortunate, that no such event had ever occurred in their Kingdom. Being a little supersticious though, our Lady felt herself crossing her fingers.

Summer was fast approaching and the wind, which was famous for its strength, affectionately known as the Cape Physician, cleaned the air of the smoke and smells of thousands of cooking fires. Our Knight and Lady had also noted an increase in warmth of the water in the mote. Mayhap soon, they would be able to bathe in it, as was their wont during the Summer season.

Castle News

30-09-2009

Sir Trevor, on his return to the castle, from the village of Durban, observed that Lady Cheryl was in a state of consternation. A frown furrowed her brow, gently our Knight coaxed the reason for this from her. It appeared that the box with moving pictures, was not working.

Realising that no peace was to be had had in the castle, until a man who specialised in these boxes, could be called upon in the morning, Sir Trevor decided to take his Lady to a local inn, called the Keg, for entertainment, a good repast and a fine cup of mead made from the local grapes.

He truly was a gentle Knight, whose eye was always on his Lady's wellbeing and happiness. She in turn greatly appreciated his efforts, and never for one day, forgot how fortune had smiled on her the day they met.