3 comments/ 19662 views/ 16 favorites The Midnight Maiden Ch. 01 By: LordBrionGrenwall Author's Note: I want to acknowledge that the two main characters of this story are originally based on two characters that my wonderful girlfriend created in a short erotic story that she wrote for me. They are of course based on us and I loved the idea so much that I created a much longer fantasy romance about them. As a convenient backdrop I have used a fantasy gaming world that I enjoyed as a child. The games that I played and novels that I read were placed in this imaginary world and kindled the fire that became a life-long love of fantasy fiction for me. The Midnight Maiden Ch. 00 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 02 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 03 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 04 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 05 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 06 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 07 The Ahlissan Chronicles ~ Book I ~ The Midnight Maiden Chapter 7: Dinner for Two The following day found Lord Brion to be in good spirits, even his father commented that there was a spring in his step that normally was not there. The young man felt as if he had not a care in the world and Brion even took more than his usual dispassionate interest in the discussions of the day. While discussing troop commitments with the other representatives Lord Brion had enthusiastically described the Ahlissan Lancers and steadfastly recommended them to the council. Lord Barnard smiled to himself as he watched his son's enthusiasm, as they were leaving he leaned in close to Brion. "It would seem that love agrees with you my son." That afternoon Lord Brion took extra care in bathing and dressing for dinner. He decided on a loose white shirt with black embroidery and his red Lancers' sash. Unlike other nights in the garden he decided to wear his rapier this evening if just for the dramatic effect. The page had shined his boots for him and he could see his reflection in them, he reminded himself to give the boy an extra silver penny on his way out tonight. The sun was just beginning to set when there was a knock on the common room door, Brion was waiting and opened the door to see a young girl. "My Lord, my Shalafi has bid me bring you to her." Brion recognized the term Shalafi as being the elvish word for teacher; he smiled at the young girl and told her to lead on. The girl led him through parts of the fortress that he had not yet seen; Brion guessed that these were the personal living areas of William and his family. Finally they came to a spiral staircase and began to climb, when they reached the top the stairs opened onto a small landing. On the landing was a heavy wooden door with magikal writing inscribed into the wood, Brion could not read it and wondered what was on the other side. The young girl knocked loudly on the door three times and then stepped to the side. After a minute the door was opened by a woman that Brion had not seen before. She was a little taller than Eryca with brown hair that was pulled up into a bun on top of her head and was dressed in a rich albeit plain grey dress. "Good evening Lord Brion" she said as she looked him over as if inspecting him "I am Miss Karolyn, Lady Tandris' handmaiden." Karolyn turned her gaze on to the girl. "Thank you Kira, that will be all for today. Now go and study your cantrips and remember what Lady Tandris said about proper pronunciation." "Yes Miss." The girl said she started down the stairs. "Lord Brion, please come in my Lady is expecting you." "Thank you Ma'am." Brion said as he stepped across the threshold into a small room which opened onto a larger balcony. On the balcony was a table set for two, the dinner plates were covered with warming covers and there were several unlit candles set in silver candlesticks. Standing at the railing her back to them was Eryca. "My Lady, Lord Brion has arrived." Karolyn said to her mistress, although Brion was sure she already knew he was there. As Eryca turned to face them she seemed to spin in place without actually moving, her dress flowed with her and she was backlit by the setting sun. Eryca wore a flowing gossamer gown of light pink while the bodice was a slightly darker pink with silver embroidery, on her brow was a delicate and intricate silver circlet, which pulled her hair back from her face but allowed her auburn locks to tumble down her back. Framed by the setting sun, Brion felt his breath catch in his chest; she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. "Thank you Karolyn, that will be all for this evening, as always you have been indispensible. If you would, could you please check on Kira's studies before you retire? If she doesn't master her pronunciation I'm afraid her cantrips will never work properly." Eryca asked her handmaiden. "Yes Milady" said Karolyn as she backed out the chamber door "I will check on her and I wish you a good night." The final comment, Brion noticed, was made with a slight knowing smile and he guessed that the two women were closer than the usual mistress and handmaiden relationship. As he heard the door latch shut Brion walked to where Lady Eryca waited. "Good evening Lord Brion I am so glad to see you here." Unbidden Brion wrapped his arms around her. "Please my Lady after all that we have shared don't you think that when we're alone you could call me Brion, Eryca." Brion felt Eryca relax in his arms as he addressed her without her title. "Yes...Brion." Eryca said as she looked into his bright blue eyes. Brion dipped his head to kiss her, even away from the garden she smelled sweetly of honeysuckle and lavender. Eryca was warm in his arms and he loved the feel of her body so close to his, their kiss was deep and passionate and it filled him with longing. After a while Brion lifted his head and looked down into her now sea-green eyes. "Eryca, promise me that from now on when we are truly alone you will always call me Brion. No titles, no presumptions, just us." He looked deeply into her eyes and swore that he could feel her heart beating against his chest so strong was its rhythm. "You have my word Brion." Eryca replied shyly, breathless from the kiss. "Now please let us relax and enjoy our meal." Brion released her and watched as she blew across the palm of her hand, as if blowing a kiss to a lover. As Eryca blew across the table the candles lit themselves and the plate covers vanished. He moved to pull her chair out which she graciously accepted then seated himself directly across from her. Brion looked down at his plate to see a small roasted quail surrounded by vegetables and potatoes. The bird was a delicious golden brown and the herbs and spices used to cook the bird smelled familiar, Eryca smiled as she watched him marvel at the meal on his plate. "Do you like it? I had the cook prepare it using herbs and spices native to your southern homeland." "My Lady" he said forgetting his own request "it is wonderful! No one has ever prepared something like this for me so far from home, thank you." "You are most welcome Brion" she said emphasizing his first name "I thought you might enjoy something familiar." He caught her jibe and laughed to himself. "It seems that I have forgotten myself Eryca." He looked and motioned to the empty wine glasses. "I would offer to fill your glass but it seems that there is no wine bottle." He said smiling. "Oh! I forgot!" Said Eryca as she waved her hand over them and murmured a few words; the glasses then began to fill themselves from the bottom up. "No bottle needed." Eryca said smiling mischievously. "You are amazing Eryca, a true wonder." Brion replied picking up his silverware. "And may I say that you look exceptionally stunning this evening." "Thank you Brion." She said looking at him coyly. "And may I say that you look very handsome." "You may Eryca." He said laughing heartily as was his way. They began to eat and discuss the events of their day. Brion asked and learned that Eryca tutored Kira, the daughter of a family friend, in the arcane ways of magik. The couple talked about their various adventures over the past few years. Brion listened intently as Eryca described many of the countries she had visited while working with her grandfather. She talked at length about her time with the elves and how she had come to honor many of their traditions. After much prodding by Eryca, Brion told about some of his military campaigns and talked extensively about his homeland of Ahlissa and what it was like there. Eryca seemed particularly interested in Ahlissa's robust griffon population and the kingdom's herds of wild horses. After they had finished their meal the two stood by the railing and looked out at the night sky and the lights of the nearby city of Admundfort. Brion relished being this close to Eryca, she was of course beautiful but it was more than that; for Eryca was well traveled and very intelligent and they shared many of the same world views and he loved talking away the hours with her. When Brion held her she just seemed to fit with him in a way left no space between them. They shared many kisses during their interlude, Eryca's kisses were passionate and she always tasted sweet. Brion loved the way her scent enclosed him and it excited him to have his arms wrapped around her, her breasts pressed close to his chest. As the night began to grow cool and the moons were beginning their ascent Brion heard Eryca sigh. "Brion, I feel so safe wrapped in your arms like this, I never want to leave them." As she spoke Eryca snuggled even closer. Brion looked down at her slightly confused. "Surely, Eryca as powerful as you are, you are always safe." She smiled against him. "I am but it is wonderful to be able to drop my defenses and feel safe in the arms of my protector. It's also nice to spend time with a man who cares for, respects and accepts me for who I am." Brion looked down and placed his finger under Eryca's chin and gently lifted her head until their eyes met. When he spoke it was in the gravest of tones, his normal gentle and humorous tone forgotten. "Eryca, I will always protect you." Overcome with desire and genuine affection Brion dropped to one knee, holding Eryca's cool delicate hands in his and looking in to her eyes he spoke solemnly. "Lady Eryca, I commend my body to my family I give my spirit to the Arch-Paladin To you, I pledge my strength Lady Eryca Tandris of Walworth. I will protect and defend you, never turning away by my blood, spirit and strength I vow to you Lady Eryca Call my name and I shall come and if I die, know that I die with honor protecting you." Brion could see the tears running down her cheeks as she accepted his vow of protection. He stood and wiped away her tears, and then he pulled her close to him and sealed his vow to her with a deep and passionate kiss. The Midnight Maiden Ch. 08 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 09 The Midnight Maiden Ch. 10 Author's Note: For all of you how are following the story, I apologize for taking so long to post chapter 10. It's been finished for a while but life has been busy and I forgot to have it posted. Also one other issue I'd like to address are the anon people that seem to like my writing but always comment that it is too short. All I can see is this: I work a full time job, spend time with the real Erica and I have four of my own kids and two stepdaughters. My plate is full all the time. I write what I envision to be a scene or what is needed to move the story forward; length does not enter into the equation. However, any constructive criticism is always welcome. If you think there are parts where I could expand or flesh things out please send me an email. Thank you and enjoy! The Ahlissan Chronicles ~ Book I ~ The Midnight Maiden Chapter 10: A Favor Returned The stables were quiet when Brion arrived; everyone was still at the field of honor talking about the contest with raised voices and excited hand gestures. The dark rider dismounted and briefly bowed his head in thanks to the Arch-Paladin. He then began to remove Armageddon's armor and place it in a bin across from his mount's stall. By the time he had finished a young stable boy appeared and assured the victorious warrior that it would be his honor to brush down and feed the massive black destrier. Brion thanked the boy, patted his friend's great muscled neck and then proceeded to his room. Arriving in his room he began to take off his armor and neatly pile it in the corner of his bedroom. His took a rag from his gear and wiped Yarol's blood from his blade then he finished removing his chainmail and plates and had just tied a piece of cloth over his leg wound when everyone entered the main room looking for him. Wearing only his sweaty clothes and muddy boots he went out to greet them. "There is my victorious son!" Bellowed Lord Barnard "You had us all fooled with your little feint. I thought Eryca was going to faint when she saw you injured!" he said laughing. Brion looked up at Eryca and smiled, she smiled back shyly; clearly embarrassed by having her concern for him be so apparent. Paragon Astinos immediately moved to Brion injured leg and began to murmur the words of a healing prayer. Lord Brion grabbed the old priests' hands and stopped him. "Save your divine prayers Paragon, it isn't as bad as it looks and it will heal in time. You know I like to recover from my wounds without magik if at all possible, it keeps me in better shape." The Paragon shook his head and rolled his eyes, "Young warriors..." William instructed the page at the door to run to the kitchen and have them send up a mid-day meal. When it arrived they all sat around the table in the common room eating, drinking and talking about the fight. The two young lovers merely sat and ate quietly while they looked at one another, occasionally they were asked for their thoughts on something but otherwise they were content to be together among friends and family. * * * In the late afternoon after Lord Brion had washed, dressed his wound properly and changed his garments he walked down to the garden where he had first seen Eryca. He leaned on the rock and watched the sky as the sun set and night began to fall. Off to his right he saw a muted flash of light and there she was looking resplendent in a flowing gown of white and gold her feet were bare and a thin golden cord tried in vain to contain her red curls. "Good evening Brion, I thought I would find you here." She said as she approached him. "Eryca" He said simply as he gathered her to him. Eryca's scent wrapped around him and the ache in his leg seemed to disappear. Brion looked into the deep emerald pools that were her eyes; he leaned in and kissed her passionately. He allowed his tongue to brush against her lips and at its gentle insistence they parted allowing him entry. He was pleased when he felt her tongue explore his lips; it was the deepest kiss they had yet shared. All too soon they parted. "I want to thank you for fighting on my behalf today Brion, it was an honor to have you as my champion." Eryca said sincerely as she looked into his sky blue eyes. "The honor was mine my Lady. I have something for you." As he spoke he reached into his shirt and brought out the gauzy purple veil she had tied around his arm earlier that day. As he pressed it into her small hands he could see silent tears run down her cheeks. Brion reached up and wiped away her tears and looked at her with concern. "Eryca, my Lady?" he asked concern in his voice. When she spoke again it was barely a whisper. "No one has ever done anything like that for me before..." Eryca's voice trailed off, her words lost in the light breeze that ruffled the leaves on the trees around them. Suddenly Eryca threw her arms around Brion's neck and kissed him deeply, her tongue seeking his. Then she broke their kiss and looked into Brion's eyes. "I love you." She said simply. Brion pulled her close and kissed her again, feeling her heart beating against his own. Their lips separated both of them breathless, with his lips still touching Eryca's he whispered. "And I love you." She looked at him imploringly searching his eyes for any hint of a jest. "You do not have to say it if you do not truly mean it." Eryca said still looking into his eyes. "My Lady I have had more than enough time to consider it." He said with a gentle smile "Also I have fought for and bled for your honor. I accepted your favor and returned it to you intact, as promised. I mean what I say and say what I mean, I am your humble protector my Lady and I love you." "And I am your Lady." Eryca said as she again moved to kiss him. Now their kisses were deep and the love between the two of them was obvious. Their lips and tongues explored each other as the two lovers stood wrapped in each other's arms. Eryca ran her fingers through Brion's thick black hair while his hands explored her back and waist. They kissed for what seemed like hours all the while whispering words of endearment and love to each other. Breathless, they ended their kiss when Lord Brion had stayed on his injured leg to long. Eryca concerned for him urged him to sit and rest himself on the grass. Brion sat down with his back to a tree and stretched out his leg; Eryca sat and curled up next to him. "You really should let Astinos mend your leg, it will heal much faster." Eryca said her head resting on Brion's chest. "I know but I like to let my wounds heal themselves, besides I will always have the scar to remind me of my victory in your honor." Brion said as he squeezed Eryca to himself, Eryca rolled her eyes in mock exasperation. "Men and their marks of honor" she giggled teasing him. They sat for a long while before Brion spoke again. "That veil that you gave me as a favor..." "Yes?" she asked. "It's quite pretty. Will I ever get to see you wear it?" He said teasingly. "Well that all depends Brion." Eryca said her jade eyes glinting in the moonlight. "Depends on what?" Brion asked, enjoying their little game. "It depends on whether or not you ask me to be your wife." She said looking directly into his eyes. "The women of my family wear it when we dance for our husbands on our wedding night." Eryca said simply. The way she spoke and the words she used were not lost on Brion as he took them in. "Well you never know what the future may hold my Lady." He said holding her close, his eyes dancing mischievously, that comment earned him a well-deserved jab in the ribs. The Midnight Maiden Ch. 11 The Ahlissan Chronicles ~ Book I ~ The Midnight Maiden Chapter 11: Making Plans Two weeks had passed since Lord Brion's contest of honor against Lord Zogrev Yarol, who had left the week prior to return to his home in the County of Urnst. Yarol had left early in the morning with his two squires and another warrior under the cover of darkness. Brion's leg was healing quite well and he had allowed Eryca and Karolyn to apply an herbal mixture under the bandage that promoted healing. Actually, he had politely refused until Miss Karolyn had told him, in no uncertain terms, to sit down and allow them to minister his wound. Lord Brion had also attained a fair amount of fame and respect from the other dignitaries. During his convalescence he spent many of his days with Lady Eryca. He could often be seen spending time with her during her daily routines. Eryca was indeed responsible for most of the planning that went into the conferences, with Miss Karolyn's help she organized the accommodations and feeding of all the various participants. Lord Brion also watched Eryca in her studies; she showed him her magikal study and the various implements of her art. He also watched as she instructed not only Kira but also other children with varying degrees of magikal ability. When Brion's legged had fully healed he once again began attending the conference with his father. In his absence many matters had been settled and it seemed that a completed and signed treaty was only weeks away. He decided that it was time to make his final decision concerning Lady Eryca, while he had gained permission to court her; Brion still had to determine the final outcome of their blossoming relationship. While Lord Brion was sure of his feelings for her he still wanted the opinion of his father. One day while having lunch in their suite Brion brought up the subject with Lord Barnard. "Can ask you a question Father?" Brion said to Barnard as he piled sliced ham and fruit onto his plate. "Always my son, what is it?" Barnard glanced up at Brion as he filled his own plate. "What do you think of Lady Eryca, how do you feel about her? "I think I have made that clear on several occasions Brion. I think she is a wonderful young woman; she is beautiful, intelligent and highly capable. As to my feelings for her, I adore her, you ought to know that." The Ahlissan king then began to stack his ham between two slices of buttered bread. "I think you need to clarify your questions son." "I think what I am meaning to ask Father is do you think she will make a good queen?" Brion looked at this father expectantly; he knew very well what his question implied. Barnard looked up at this son and a smile spread across his face. "So you mean to ask me if I think she will make a good wife and future queen of Ahlissa." Brion nodded a wide grin on his usually serious face. "Well of course I do boy! I'm relieved that you are finally deciding on this. William, Astinos and I have been waiting to hear this for days now!" laughed the older man. "Brion, Eryca is a rare jewel. If you want my opinion, I say marry her and never let her go." Lord Brion sat back relieved that his father felt the same way that he did about all of this. Not that he had ever doubted it but it was nice to have his thoughts and feelings for her confirmed by someone as wise as his father. Barnard interrupted Brion's deep thoughts with a question. "So how do you intend to ask her? Over dinner or perhaps in that garden you two are so fond of? Personally, I think a moon lit walk would be good, that's how I asked your mother." Brion looked up; he had never heard this story before. He had long since decided that the memory of the death of his mother was too painful for his father to discuss. However, he had noticed that since he had begun to court Eryca his father had begun to mention Brion's mother more often. "I remember it like it was yesterday" Barnard mused as he ate his lunch "we were still young and living in Zelradton. I was a young nobleman and I had just been commissioned into the army of the Great Kingdom and was about to leave for training. I had come to say goodbye to your mother at her family's estate just outside the city walls. We were walking the grounds, Luna was bright and full that night." Barnard smiled to himself, his eyes seeing far away memories. "She was a warrior as well but as a woman she was not obligated to military service. Anyway, I looked upon her and I remember being overcome with emotion, I hadn't planned any of this mind you. I took her hands in mine and kneeled before her. Before I knew what I was doing I was asking her to wait for me, she had other suitors of course, and I asked her to marry me the first chance I had leave to come home." Brion watched as a single tear rolled down his father's face that was soon lost in his full beard. "She said she would wait for me and I left for my training in Rauxes the following morning. I was granted leave before I had to report to my first posting a few months later. We were married on the fourth of Planting on her family's estate. Then she traveled with me to Getheren when I was posted there a few weeks later." Lord Barnard sat quietly for a few moments and then he spoke again more softly this time. "Brion you know how your mother was taken from us while you were still a babe and if she were here now I think she would tell you to hold on to Lady Eryca for as long as you can. The world is a dangerous place and we never know when the ones we love maybe taken from us." Lord Barnard looked across the table at his son "Well, have I helped you to make up your mind?" he asked looking his usual jovial self again. "I also think she is perfect Father, I love her deeply and I really can't imagine my life without her. I would love for her to able to return home with us when these treaty talks have ended." Brion said smiling and thinking of their journey home together. "Well boy you do the asking and I'm sure William and I can make that happen." Lord Brion spent that afternoon attending the talks with Lord Barnard, at one point he pulled aside a familiar squire and had the boy carry a note Eryca explaining that he would not be able to see her that evening. Brion also sent word to the stable hand to have Armageddon saddled and ready for him before Celene set that night. * * * Now he found himself riding across the countryside the dawn quickly approaching behind him trying to decide how to ask what was the most important question of his life. As Brion rode he thought about just the right way to go about it, all he knew was that he wanted it to be special for both of them. Brion' brow furrowed in frustration; he realized he had never planned anything truly romantic before. Realizing this Brion laughed at himself the mighty warrior unable to plan something so simple. Looking up to take stock of his surroundings Brion saw that he and Armageddon had reached the lakeshore. Pulling the reins tight to signal the great destrier to stop Brion sat for a bit watching the waters of the Nyr Dyv crash onto the rocky shore. The lake was so large that it was almost an inland sea and its depths housed creatures large enough to sink trade vessels. As Brion watched the blue water come ashore in foamy waves an idea formed in his head, yes that was how he would do it! He dug his spurs into Armageddon's side and pulled the reins to the right turning the horse back towards the fortress. * * * Lord Brion spent the next day gathering what he needed and readying his plans. Lord Barnard was thrilled to hear Brion's idea but could not assist his son due to his obligations, however, in Astinos, Brion found a willing conspirator. It was agreed that Astinos and two squires who could hold their tongues would have everything ready as Lord Brion wished it. After Brion was sure that all of his preparations had been made he again dispatched the room page to carry a note to Lady Eryca inviting her to a ride the following morning before lunch. * * * The next morning Brion rose early and shared the usual morning meal with his father. He told Lord Barnard of exactly what he had planned for the day. Brion's father was delighted to hear what was in store for the two young lovers and wished Brion luck. After breakfast Lord Brion returned to his room and dressed for the day, he wore his usual black boots, pants and loose fitting shirt. Around his waist he tied his red Lancers' sash and over that he belted his rapier. As the day might cool later on Brion threw on his black and crimson traveling cloak. When he was pleased with his appearance he went downstairs to see to Armageddon. When Brion arrived at the stables he saw that Geoff had tied Armageddon to the post out front and was busy readying Eryca's horse. "Good morning Geoff, how are you this day?" Brion said to the young blonde boy. "Oh, very fine Sir!" The boy answered as he tightened Eryca's saddle around her horse, a beautiful tobiano paint with a blonde mane and tail and bright blue eyes. Lord Brion walked around the mare and saw that she was sturdy and of good breeding. As he rounded the horses' backside he saw Geoff struggling a bit with the saddle straps. "Here Geoff like this" Brion said as he showed the boy how to cinch the strap without pinching the horse "if you place your hand in here like this and then pull the strap you won't pinch her." "Thank you Lord Brion, I'll have to remember that." The boy smiled widely, proud to have learned something new. "Tell me Geoff do you have any parents or is that old fool Brenan the only one who looks after you?" "I did Sir but they were killed when a roving group of gnolls attacked our village. The Earl's soldiers found me and brought me to live here in the castle. I liked the horses so the Captain of the Guard assigned me to work with Brenan." Geoff spoke enthusiastically, excited that someone was taking an interest in him. "I don't mind Brenan too much Sir, he treats me decent enough and I get to spend time with the horses like Dru here" he said as he patted the paint's neck. Brion smiled and ruffled the boys' hair as they led Druscilla into the courtyard. "And just what are you two doing with my horse?" They heard Lady Eryca say as she approached the two. Eryca looked beautiful in flowing gown of pale pink velvet over it she wore a hooded red cloak to ward of the chill; soft brown leather boots protected her feet. Brion and Geoff looked at each other and shrugged trying to look as innocent as possible. "Nothing my Lady" Brion said as he bowed to Eryca "simply helping to prepare your mount for this mornings' ride." Eryca smiled widely and looked at Geoff. "Should I believe him Geoff or do you think he is up to no good?" Geoff flushed a deep red in the cheeks as Eryca smiled at him, her green eyes sparkling. "No M'am, Lord Brion was just teaching me about tightening a saddle. Honest!" Eryca giggled at the boy's sincerity and then turned her gaze on Brion who was watching the two discuss him. "Am I forgiven my Lady?" Brion said a mischievous grin on his face. "For now my Lord but I will be keeping my eye on you." Eryca laughed as she pretended to chide him. "Now if you would be so kind?" She said as she took hold of Druscilla's reins. Brion assisted Eryca into the side saddle helping her to arrange herself and get seated comfortably. He then unhitched Armageddon and seated himself on his own mount. Smiling to each other they said goodbye to Geoff as they rode out the front gate and into the countryside. The Midnight Maiden Ch. 12 Author's Note: I would like to thank everyone who has waited on me to finish this story. I appreciate all the comments that I have received both kind and critical. I would like to add that I have began to go back and revamp the story to add a little more of an adventurous side to it. The additions will help segue to the next novella and sustain the entire series. I will be posting that revised edition in it's' entirety, no waiting for chapters. I have also started the next novella and will be posting its' chapters. Again thank you everyone who has made this journey with Erica and me, we appreciate all of you! The Midnight Maiden Ch. 13