July 1298 – 30 Nov 1298
Arnald fights in the Battle of Falkirk, which is a living nightmare for him and causes him to question his sanity despite the fact that it was a major English victory. King Edward is trampled by his own horse in the early morning before the battle, and fights with broken ribs.
Arnald once again proves himself invaluable both on and off the battlefield.
Arnald returns to London with Edward and together they hear that Edward’s oldest daughter Eleanor died in Ghent. Grief-stricken, Edward sends Arnald home. Arnold’s ship is delayed by contrary winds.
Margaret has another year’s worth of horses born, or trained and ready for sale to the English. She is secretly forced to slow down due to pregnancy complications. Etienne and Fayette step in for her more and more. As her time nears she insists on being close to her sons and repeatedly makes comments about wanting Arnald to come home.
The family receives 8000 s from England for surrendering their land at Sault, allowing them to buy hay, leather, horse, shoes, etc and hire a second stable hand.
William receives more reports from Gascons who need to be reimbursed by the King. A disturbing amount of reports make him realize the Lord of Navailles is now solidly on the French side, burning homes and vineyards.
On 30 November 1298 there were earth tremors at Rome that lasted three days. Shortly afterwards, in England, there was one at dusk. A comet appeared in the north, giving out fiery beams to the east each evening for three days. Four Edwards
Margaret clings to Cerise when she goes into labor, wanting the mare’s comfort but Marie pulls her away and makes her go into the house as Margaret sobs, citing blood poisoning concerns.
Arnald makes it home in time for the birth. Margaret insists that he come in with her after Arnaud is born, against Marie’s advice. Arnald holds Margaret as she bleeds to death.