Cerdric is the court favourite of
King Burdred who rose to prominence despite humble birth. He is the same age
as Burdred and as son of Burdred's nanny acted as his playmate until Burdred was 10. At that point King
Wulfhere thinking that the relationship was becoming a little obsessive sent the nanny (and Cerdric) away.
Burdred was mightily displeased with his father's decision and spent the next two years sulking before causing a scandal
by running away from Court to spend time with his friend. When he was found he was dressed down by his father
and it was at this point that Wulfhere announced that his plan for the succession was to see which of his
two sons was the most suitable for the Kingship.
Nevertheless Cerdric reappeared at Court when Burdred was 16 and the young prince saw to it that he received
the training of a nobleman. This included lessons with a rapier with which weapon Cerdric became quite skilled.
Soon he felt confident enough to act as Burdred's champion and since it was illegal for anyone to duel with
a Prince Cerdric would challenge anyone who he felt impuned Burdred's honour. After Cerdrdic killed one of his
opponents he was upbraided by the King himself and told to curb his temper but since Burgred took the throne
Cerdric returned to duelling and their have been five more deaths to date.
Cerdric was, however, a natural at the game of court intrigue and King Burgred has used him for many
tasks that he himself found distasteful. This may be one reason why he promoted Cerdric to the rank of
Marshal and gave him command of the
Geogoths; he knows that Cedric will embrace the task but doesn't really
want to grapple with the fallout from how the Geogoths operate.
Cerdic has few allies at Court but many fear him because of his ruthless temperament and his influence
with the King. To date he has survived two assassination attempts which have both angered the King and contributed
to his growing paranoia. Cerdric himself remains remarkably self-possessed and clearly enjoys his status and the
fruits of power.