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Blondel de Nesle

Summary:

Drabble in which the Fifth Doctor helps Jean II of Nesle, AKA the Blondel (a common nickname for any blond man), create the legend wherein Richard Lionheart is rescued from Dürnstein Castle not because his mother, Eleanor, simply paid the outrageous ransom, but through some romantic responsive singing by the King and his troubadour... or was that really his troubadour?

Work Text:

"He's in Dürnstein Castle. Eleanor is raising the ransom."

"But, Doctor," complained Jean, "I want to be legendary. My father was legendary."

"We look vaguely alike. Let me briefly be Blondel. I'll see what I can do."

The Doctor returned to the tavern two days later, singing Ja nun hons pris. "What news?" cried Jean.

"Eleanor has paid up. Richard thinks you warbled under his window. Oh, here's your lute back."

"How can I ever repay you?"

"Write Onques maiz nus hom ne chanta for me."

"How will I find you?"

Departing, the Doctor promised, "Your song will find me."