With Geoffrey, the Earl of Essex, now dead, most of the knightly fiefs in northern Essex County quickly submitted. However, the southern fiefs, especially those near London, refused to swear allegiance to Robert.
Thus, time remained incredibly tight.
Brightling Castle, before the main gate
Eric and Robert were ready to depart. The household knights of Essex and some of the summoned Territorial Knights were also prepared, totaling nearly two hundred men.
News had arrived from Suffolk the day before. Arno, following Robert's orders, had already begun his raids. They had to move out quickly to follow up.
"I will carry out your command without fail. Perhaps by the time you reach London, your prestige, your glory, your mercy, your generosity, will be known throughout the entirety of Essex County..." Itamar droned on and on, like a Minstrel.
Eric quickly shot Itamar a look, gesturing toward Robert, who sat grim-faced on his horse nearby.
