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A Queen's Knight Ch. 11

By: Cephus Smith



Night fell upon the caravan, and while some stood guard, most slept uneasily and with weapons near. The full moon's soft illumination of the encampment was eerily beautiful. The breathing of the exhausted horses and the various noises of the nighttime forest seemed peaceful, but somehow the quiet was more disturbing than a column of barbarians. 

Outside his lady's carriage, Aldwyn stood watch. Although he may have appeared to be as vigilant as a church gargoyle, his mind abounded with thoughts of recent events. "I should have turned back at the first sign of danger," Aldwyn thought to himself, "Why did I push on after seeing the tracks? Why didn't I realize that the lady was the target? Why didn't I leave with a heavier escort? Why hadn't I trained the men harder? There shouldn't have been so many casualties. I should have stopped those bastards from kidnapping the lady in the first place. How can I explain my failings? What will my punishment be?" 

As Aldwyn was chastising himself, a blood-curdling shirk of terror came from inside the carriage. Aldwyn turned, drawing his blade, and opened the carriage door, nearly unfastening the hinges in the process. He entered the carriage ready to fight some loathsome enemy, but found only the lady sitting up on her cot looking as though she had just seen the devil himself and her maiden kneeling next to her trying to comfort her. 

"What happened?" Aldwyn asked.

"I-I don't know sire," Alicia replied, "We were asleep and then s-sh-she just cried out."

"Lady," Aldwyn asked, "What happened? Are you alright?"

Isana was still coming to the realization that she was awake. She felt around to make sure everything was solid. The difference between dream and reality had become temporarily unclear. 

She was still sorting things out in her mind as Waren peaked his head around Aldwyn's shoulder. "What happened?" Waren asked hurriedly.

"Wait a moment, Lieutenant," Aldwyn replied, trying to calm the situation enough to get a clear response from the lady. "Lady," Aldwyn's tone softened, "You are awake. You are safe. What happened?"

"Dreams," Isana finally managed to say, "Horrible dreams."

Aldwyn sighed in relief, and looked to his subordinate, "It's alright. The lady had a nightmare. Return to your post."

Waren sighed irritated as he concurred, "Yes sire."

Aldwyn sheathed his weapon and turned to exit, but before he could leave, a hand grasped his shoulder and the lady's voice now sounding very meek said, "Don't go… please."

Aldwyn turned back and saw the fearful black pools of Isana's eyes. The moon's light gave her a ghostly pale face. Aldwyn had never seen Isana truly afraid before. Even back at the barbarian camp, as he had watched for his chance to strike, he had seen the lady's face and even that was a pale shadow of the fear he saw in her now. 

Aldwyn bowed his head, "As you wish my lady." Aldwyn leaned his head out of the carriage door, ordered two men still on guard to stand guard in his place, then he closed the door.

Aldwyn's large frame was ill fitted to the confines of the carriage, and the sword at his hip was awkwardly positioned. After a few futile attempts to adjust its placement, Aldwyn simply removed it concluding the weapon would be useless in such confines and could only hinder him if he had to fight. He laid he sword across from him in the corner, keeping it close at hand but out of the way. He also adjusted his dagger so it rested just above his left thigh, the hilt pointing towards his crotch, making access to it with his right hand as easy as possible.

Now finally settled, Aldwyn returned his attention to his lady and her maiden who had apparently had been watching him intently. "Do my arms offend you my lady?" Aldwyn asked.

"No," Isana replied in a slightly shaking voice, "It's just that… I now understand more fully their intended use… and their… effectiveness."

Aldwyn considered the lady's response carefully and added, "As should anyone who must command men into war. Many a king has ordered armies into war and never once witnessed the outcome. Those who do not understand the nature of war do not understand the true cost of war."

Isana was struck by Aldwyn's comment, "How can you say that? You are the captain of the guard. You served my father in the barbarian campaign. Do you mean to say that you abhor warfare?"

"Not at all my lady," Aldwyn answered, "I believe there are causes worth fighting and even dieing for and I am ready to give my all for such causes, but not all causes for which men have fought have been worth fighting for. I only ask that if I and my men must fight and die, that it be for a worthy cause." 

The Lady was fascinated by these revelations. She had always heard of war as being just and righteous, even romantic, but nothing that she had seen of it thus far way even remotely any of those things. This was the first time she had heard anything dissenting from her upbringing. "Then what, in your estimation, is worth war?" the Lady asked.

Aldwyn was silent for a moment then responded, "God, King, Country, duty, honor, and the men."

Isana's mind reverberated with Aldwyn's words. The world seemed to crystallize in clarity. It seemed so obvious now but just a few moments ago, had she been asked the same question, she would have only stared blankly. Admittedly she had never really given the matter much serious thought, but in retrospect she should have at least considered it. Now it was as if a veil had been lifted from her eyes. War was the most serious of undertakings that any kingdom can undertake. It required serious thought. 

As the Lady continued her silent contemplation, she suddenly became aware that her fear was nearly gone. The thought of ugly hairy men carrying her off was far from her mind. Even the presence of the knight's weapons was far less frightening now. As Isana looked on at Aldwyn, she realized that even though she had seen him kill, she was at ease with him. She felt safe with him. He was not a mindless brute like her kidnappers, but rather a warrior gentleman. She found the idea of such opposing qualities perplexing.

"Aldwyn… how do you separate yourself from it? Sometimes you're a warrior. Sometimes you're a courtier. How do you…" Isana wasn't sure how to ask her question. 

"I don't separate them. I am both a warrior and a gentleman. They are merely two aspects of the same duty I am sworn to perform. It isn't always easy or pleasant, but both are required of me and I will carry them out to the best of my ability."

"Why?" Alicia chirped in.

"Why what?" Aldwyn not understanding her question.

"Why did you choose to be a knight? You could have been so many other things, a courtier, even a clergyman. You certainly have the wisdom and… the compassion for it," Alicia was obviously referring to the incident in the bathhouse. 

"For most knights that would be true," Aldwyn's tone was uncomfortable, "not so for me. My father did come from a noble line, but recent hardships had depleted much of the family's wealth. This forced his to seek a marriage of financial benefit rather than social alliance. He married the daughter of a wealthy but low-born tradesman whose origins have since been traced to… a certain southern tribe."

"You're half…" Isana couldn't bring herself to speak the word.

"Barbarian? Yes I am, but not half, only a quarter." Aldwyn continued, "Because of my birth, the clergy and courtiers would have nothing to do with me, but my father managed to arrange for my commission into your noble father's army. I was given command of a century. Shortly there after, the barbarian campaign began. I advanced through the ranks through victory and on occasion the death of my immediate superior in battle. I earned wealth and land through my service. I also earned the trust and respect of your father; So much so that on the eve of the last battle with the barbarians, he knighted me as commander of his first legion." 

"Do your men know of your heritage?" Isana asked.

"Those who served under me in the war do, and they don't care. I have earned their loyalty and their trust. To them, I am their commander and that is all that matters."

There was a pregnant silence, then Isana finally asked the question that she had been long contemplating, "Aldwyn, what would have happened to us if we had been kidnapped?"

"My lady," Aldwyn choked back a surge of venomous rage, "Please don't ask me to tell you that. You are here, you are safe, and tomorrow we will be in King Dietrich's court."

"Please, I need to know," Isana insisted, "What would have happened?"

Aldwyn sighed deeply, "You would have been taken across our boarders into barbarian lands where I believe you, my lady, would have been forced to marry one of their chieftains. By doing so, he would have claim to your father's lands and could have untied the tribes in a war against us." Aldwyn clenched his jaw and closed his eyes, trying desperately to restrain his anger. 

"What else is there?" Isana saw that there was more than he was admitting.

"According most tribal traditions, a marriage isn't fully consummated until a child is born, and consent has never been a prerequisite for… consummation." 

Isana couldn't believe what she was hearing, "They would have forced me to bare one of them?"

"Yes."

The word "Yes" reverberated inside Isana's mind. The thought of one of those awful men touching her was revolting enough but the prospect of being violated by one of them was too horrid to fully contemplate. Without realizing it, Isana had drawing herself closer and closer to Aldwyn the entire time, now she was right next to him. Now she realized that Alicia was sitting right next her. Her golden girl was holding on to her hand as though her life depended on it.

"What would have happened to Alicia?" Isana's voice rang deeply with fearful concern.

"Most likely, she would have been sold into slavery, to a wealth merchant or to a brothel. There would be little difference," Aldwyn's voice was sour. "That's how my mother was conceived," Aldwyn's voice was fragmented with angry tears.

Isana was stunned. She couldn't imagine what it would be like to know that a parent was the product of rape. She placed a comforting hand on his arm. She could feel the coursing wrath flowing through his body. 

Aldwyn wasn't at all in the mood to be touched much less coddled, but could not bring himself to withdraw from his lady's hand. For him to refuse his lady anything would be sacrilege. He accepted his lady's comfort, swallowing his pride and his anger. 

His mind began to still as his lady continued to stoke his arm. He could feel the weight of his lady's head against his shoulder. Slowly the stoking stopped and the weight of his lady's head became heavy. Aldwyn looked to his lady and saw that she was fast asleep, her handmaiden as well. Aldwyn too was succumbing to the weight of his sleep deprived eyes. He had taken the last of the herbalist's tonic some hours before and the effect was fading quickly. Soon all three were asleep in the carriage, dreaming peacefully.

A Queen's Knight Ch. 12-14



Chapter 12

At midday, the caravan arrived at the court of King Dietrich. With their arrival, so did the stories of the treacherous journey that had been the lady Isana's lot and how the knight Aldwyn had been the hero and had single-handedly slain the barbarian kidnappers and rescued the lady; Most of these, gross elaborations and exaggerations of the truth. 

Word of these tales reached the court before the lady Isana did. As the lady's envoy entered the hall of King Dietrich, there was a flurry of questions from court members, trying to ascertain the facts. Finally after much colloquium, the king called for silence. The Lady and the Knight Aldwyn came before the king. 

The heavy oak doors opened as the Lady Isana stepped into the cavernous hall, the knight Aldwyn at her side. The long stone arcade of the hall was lined by court-goers and guardsmen in ceremonial garb. The hall ended at the elevated platform of the King's throne. Isana felt the eyes of all the people around her upon her. This strange place and strange room left her feeling vulnerable and exposed. She also felt the reassuring presence of Aldwyn at her side. He had gone through worse for her already and she knew she could count on him here. 

As she reached the end of the arcade, she stood before the King Dietrich, an older man of graying blond hair, a white beard, and piercing blue eyes. His stature, she could not guess from the elaborate layers of clothing that covered his body, though his position on his throne left no doubt as to his position in the court. 

"Kneel," Aldwyn's voice barely a whisper. The lady suddenly remembered that kneeling before the king was customary before being greeted. With as much grace as she could, she knelt before the king, as did Aldwyn timing himself to match his lady. 

"Lady Isana," King Dietrich's voice resonated in the hall, "What is this I hear that you were kidnapped and rescued in the span of a day? Stories of this have flooded the city and even reached this court before you. Many variations abound and none are sure of the truth of any of it. Please tell us, what was this escapade that has delayed your arrival?"

Unsure of whether the King was actually angry or just being formal, the lady rose to her feet and spoke, "King Dietrich, some days ago, I was enroot to your kingdom when the caravan that carried me was attacked by barbarians. They took me and one of my handmaidens hostage. That night, a single man, the valiant knight Aldwyn came forth from the forest and freed me and my handmaiden, dispatched our captors whose numbers were seven times his own, and safely returned us to the caravan where we have made all speed to your court."

"Is this valiant knight to whom you refer the man at your side my lady?" The king asked.

"Yes," The lady answered, "I owe this man my life."

"And you sir Knight, what do you say? Do you wish to add anything to your lady's account?"

"Yes," Aldwyn stood, "If I am to be considered responsible for my lady's rescue, then I must also be considered responsible for my lady's capture."

A great murmur rose among the court, until the king called for silence again.

"In what way were you responsible for the lady's capture?" the King enunciating his words very clearly, expressing no connotation.

"On the first night of our journey, I was standing watch when I noticed fresh tracks which belonged a breed of horse favored by the barbarians. I thought them to be the tracks of traveling merchants at first, but then it occurred to me that the tracks could be a sign of a raiding party. I should have returned to my lord's lands immediately, but instead I pressed on. While I did send for reinforcements as a precaution, I was still in error. I was charged with the safe conduct of my lady and she narrowly escaped disaster. If I am to be credited with my lady's rescue, then I must also be credited with her capture."

"Do you believe your faults deserve punishment?" the King asked in a contemplative tone.

"Yes, Sire."

"What punishment do you believe you deserve?"

Aldwyn stepped forward, knelt before the steps to the king's throne and said almost mournfully, "Whatever punishment you see fit." With that, Aldwyn bent his head down, assuming the position of a condemned man. 

The court rolled with murmurs again, and Isana was dumbfounded. This was unheard of. Aldwyn was tempting both the wrath and mercy of the King. Quickly the rolling murmurs of the court died and the hall reverberated with silence. The king remained utterly still. It was obvious he was contemplating the situation.

Finally the king spoke, "Dear Lady Isana, as it was you who was chiefly offended by the actions just confessed by this Knight, it is for you that justice must be made. What punishment would you consider appropriate?"

Isana had barely heard the king, as she was still frozen from the shock of Aldwyn's confession, but quickly she quickly began to form an answer. "My King, it is true that my capture was due in part to the actions of the Knight Aldwyn... but I consider his culpability a cup in a well in comparison to those who planned, and committed this act against my person. While he offers his life as justice, I do not wish for his life."

"But what should his punishment be for his trespass against you? A cup in a well is still a cup and all must be accounted for."

Isana again took a moment, then a thought, "My King, there is a form of settlement that is commonly used in civil matters in my father's lands that would satisfy me. It is called a ‘debt of service.' The Knight would be required to perform any act of service to me at my request to my satisfaction." 

"Sir Knight, would this be an acceptable form of penance?"

Aldwyn raised his head, "If it is acceptable to my Lady, it is acceptable to me."

"Then the matter is settled, Sir Knight Aldwyn, you are hereby indebted to the lady Isana an act of service to be called upon at anytime at the Lady's discretion."

"The Knight rose to his feet and bowed deeply, "Your majesty's judgment is as wise as it is fair," And Aldwyn stepped back to his place beside his lady.

"Now to your responsibility in matter of the Lady's rescue," The King spoke in a reverberating tone as he stood from his throne. The King stepped down from his platform and stood on the same level as Aldwyn. Standing on the same level as Aldwyn, it was apparent that the king's true height was several inches shorter than that of the knight, but crown that he wore made up the difference and then some. The king then placed his hands on either of the knight's shoulders, a gesture which was reserved for honored guests, or those whom the king intended to give honors. "Friends," King Dietrich boomed, "After my son's wedding to this lady is complete, we shall see this knight made a Hero." The bestowing of the title of Hero was one of the highest honors the King could give. Aldwyn was speechless, which was just as well since the king spoke again, "Now, see to it that this lady and her entourage are taken care of. Court is now in recess. I shall take my leave."

As the court began to disburse, the knight Sheridan approached his king and reverently bowed, "Sire, if I may, I have an urgent matter to discuss."

"Of course," King Dietrich replied, "Walk with me." With that The King and his knight walked off to the side of the hall to a doorway and disappeared. 

From behind, two maidens of Dietrich's court stepped to the sides of the Lady Isana and the knight Aldwyn and lead then to their respective quarters that had been prepared for them. 

Chapter 13

The maiden from court lead the lady to her quarters. As the lady entered the room, the maiden mentioned that her handmaiden was asleep in one of the rooms. The lady thanked her and dismissed her with the instruction that she was not to be disturbed for the rest of the day. As soon as the maiden left, Isana went to Alicia's bedside.

Isana sat on the edge of the bed where her golden girl lay asleep. Seeing the utterly placid features of Alicia's face gave Isana a peace of mind unlike anything in the world. Somehow, even after all the turmoil of their journey, seeing that angelic face made the world seem so much better. Gently, the Lady crept over to Alicia and with the weight of a feather, placed a kiss on the golden girl's forehead. 

As she began to withdraw, there was a rapping at the door. At first the lady was startled, but then looked over to see if her handmaiden had been stirred by the noise. Still she lay in that bed, undisturbed by the world around her. Reassured by this, the lady carefully removed herself from the bed, and briskly made her way to the door, intending to throttle whoever was at the door.

She pulled the heavy door open to find the Knight Sheridan standing before her with a rather surprised look on his face. "I thought I left instructions NOT to be disturbed," the lady managed to keep her voice low enough to not wake her maiden, but her tone was obviously one of undisguised anger. 

"My apologies lady, but the King sent for you," Sheridan was obviously unprepared for the lady's response.

"Very well," Isana's irritation was subsiding, "Lead on."

Though several hallways, the Lady was lead to the royal quarters. Finally they stood outside a set of ornately engraved doors. Knight Sheridan spoke, "My King, The Lady Isana is here at your request."

"Send her in," came the resonate voice of the king. 

Sheridan opened the doors, and stepped aside to allow the Lady to enter first. The room was rather large. The walls lined with shelves stacked with manuscripts, scrolls and bound papers. The middle of the room was a large desk covered in papers, topped with lanterns. Above the room was a rather impressive chandelier which lit the room remarkably well."

"What do you think of my study?" the king's voice coming from the right of Isana. Looking to her right, she saw that the king was looking straight at her, holding a manuscript in his hands which he had been apparently been reading. He had since removed the excess grab of his title, wearing only a simple tunic which probably served as an undergarment for his royal clothes. His head now bare reveled long white thinning hair to match his beard. 

"Impressive," The lady replied.

The old King smiled, turned to his knight and dismissed him. Sheridan left, closing the doors as he did so. The king returned his attention to the lady. "Your noble father told me you had a sharp mind. I didn't realize how sharp until your arrival. You impressed me with your speech in court, and I am not easily impressed."

"Thank you, kind King," the Lady replied.

"Please Isana, let us speak simply. In here, you may refer to me as Dietrich."

"As it pleases you, Dietrich."

"There are a few matters I would like to discuss with you," the king began to walk, "Let us have a seat at the table." As the Lady followed the King around the desk, sure enough there was a table with a few chairs around it. It too was covered with scattered papers. 

Isana waited for the king to be seated before taking a seat across from him. The king looked as though he were mentally collecting himself. Finally he spoken with a solemn tone, "Do you know of my son's... disposition?"

"Yes," Isana answered.

"You are well informed," the old king paused, "If you know of my son's disposition then you also know of the rumor regarding the... conception of an heir to my throne."

"Yes," Isana became a statue. The shock that he would bring this subject up so plainly left her unable to think.

"Allow me to assuage your fears," "I would not force myself on you. In fact, my physician, in whom I have complete confidence, tells me that I am beyond the point of which I can sire children."

"If that is the case, then how did such a rumor get started?"

"I planted a few seeds in the fertile minds of court and fortunately, they bore the intended fruit."

"You started this rumor? For what purpose?"

"In the event of your pregnancy, the common people will naturally accept the idea that you bore the seed of my son. As for the court, they will still have every reason to believe that your child will be of the royal line. There will never be any question of your child's legitimacy."

"And what of your son? Is he so unwilling? Even for the sake of continuing the royal line?"

"He says his passions burn only for the man he loves. Besides, he cares not for the life of court. He finds the protocol and ceremony of it tedious and burdensome. His gifts and talents lend themselves to the arts. He does not have the head for politics. Fortunately I think you do."

"Are you suggesting that... once you're gone that... I would take your place as sovereign?"

"Yes."

"Your son is alright with all of this?" 

"I love my son as a father should. I have accepted him for the man he is. He does not want the responsibility, so I won't give it to him. I have made other arrangements for him."

"But, who would be the... true father?"

"That is a matter I leave entirely up to you."

Isana couldn't believe what had just transpired. Not only would she sovereign, but she would be able to freely choose the father of her child. For a moment, she felt a surge of power that made almost light headed, but then to weight of the responcibility began to settle. It felt incredibly heavy, but then the king spoke again.

"Now to a more immediate issue," the King said changing the subject, "Did your knight tell you his suspicions regarding your attempted kidnapping?"

"Yes," Isana replied.

"But did he tell you who he thought was responsible?" Dietrich asked.

"One of the barbarian chieftains," Isana answered, "He didn't give a specific name."

"During your rescue," The King elaborated, "Your Knight found a ceremonial dagger on the body of one of the dead. That kind of dagger is issued only to the Sentinels; a small select group of soldiers of the Wilburn clan reserved specifically to guard the chieftain. The last chieftain of the Wilburn clam was a man called Theron; one of the most powerful chieftains before and after the last war. He died under strange circumstances about a year ago."

"He was an arrogant, manipulative, and brutal man," Dietrich continued, "He was also a womanizer. In addition to his wife, with whom he had seven children, he had at least four mistresses and countless illegitimate children. One of those children is named Damien."

"Damien, much like his father, is manipulative, brutal, and arrogant, but he also much cleverer than his father. It is no secret that he has wanted his father's throne, but all the legitimate male heirs come before him in that right. All except one of those legitimate heirs have mysteriously died. Some were poisoned, some killed in hunting accidents, and some have just disappeared. While there is no proof of treachery, it is widely believed that Damien was responsible for the deaths of those heirs and even his own father, with the aid of some or all of the Sentinel guards. The only remaining heir is Thor and he, of all the possible heirs, is by far the most unsuited to the position. 

"His reign has been one failure after another. Most of his people hate him and would gladly receive a new chieftain. If this is true, it was Damien's plan to have Thor take the throne, allow him to flounder, then with the support of the people, overthrow Thor, and take the throne for himself."

"So it was this Damien who tired to have me kidnapped," Isana interjected.

"Yes," Dietrich answered, "Not only would this give Damien the right to your father's lands, and the excuse to start a war, but also according to their customs, a chieftain must be married before his coronation."

"So as long as he intends to take me as his bride, he can't usurp Thor," Isana was starting to comprehend the intricacy of this Damein's plan, "But once I marry your son, he can't take me, correct?"

"No," The king replied mournfully, "In fact, you will be even more desirable since you would also give him claim on my kingdom as well as your father's lands."

"Then why did he not wait until after the marriage to strike?"

"He saw an opportunity to take you and went after it. Besides he was probably counting on me allying myself with your father against him, making my lands fair game as well."

"Clever bastard."

"Indeed. That brings me to the main reason why I wanted to talk with you. Your security and safety is now directly linked to the welfare of your father's lands as well as mine. I feel it only prudent that you be assigned a permanent staff of guards that would answer only to you."

"Of course," Isana did not like the idea of being constantly guarded as a prisoner in her home; however the alternative prospects were far grimmer. 

"I realize that such measures may be inconvenient, even confining, for you," the king said with a contemplative tone, "But I believe a suitable arrangement could be made if the right man were found to take charge of your security. It would require someone with extensive experience with personal security, someone who is devoutly loyal to you, someone who you trust, and someone who understands the enemy. Can you think of someone with those credentials?" 

Chapter 14

One of the maidens from court had lead the Knight Aldwyn to a well furnished room that already had a bath next to the fire. "Here is your room. If you require anything else please don't hesitate to ask," said the maiden.

"Thank you," Aldwyn replied, "As a matter of fact, I do require assistance with cleaning a wound in my shoulder. If you could send for a nurse, it would be greatly appreciated."

"Of course sire," The court maiden replied and then backed out of the room. 

Aldwyn took a moment to inspect the room. It was well furnished, but his eyes were quickly drawn to the bed. The bed looked quiet ample, even for his large frame. It also looked soft as a cloud. It looked divine to his tired eyes. He knew he would sleep well tonight. He would sleep well tonight even if we were sharing a stall with the swine, but that bed would certainly make it more enjoyable. 

A knock at the door broke Aldwyn's concentration. "That must be the nurse," he thought to himself." "Enter," He called. He began to remove his shirt, "It's a wound in my left shoulder. It isn't deep, but it does need to be cleaned and the dressing should be changed."

"Quite," chirped an all too familiar female voice.

Removing his shirt the rest of the way, Aldwyn looked shapely at the nurse who stood before him. "Allegra? By what devil's trick did you get in here?" 

Allegra grinned coyly as her dark eyes sparkled with the light of the fire, "I have my resources. Speaking of which, did my resources prove useful in that last little assignment you gave me?"

"Yes," Aldwyn's voice relaxed as the surprise wore off, "Your report was most informative."

"Just out of curiosity," Allegra asked in an almost uninterested tone, which she only used when she was exceptionally interested, "What was it you really wanted to know about the dear young prince?"

"My lady wanted to know more about her future husband before she was married to him. It seemed a reasonable request, though some might have found the idea of my lady making official inquiries into the prince's character to be inappropriate. Thus she asked me to make some discrete inquiries, and I delegated it to you. By the way, I trust your compensation was satisfactory."

"Of course," Allegra knew he was lying. "Well shall I clean your wound?"

"Yes," Aldwyn replied, knowing Allegra was up to something.

Allegra stepped towards Aldwyn, and removed the old bandage. A line of slightly fowl-smelling puss surrounded by reddened and inflamed skin was revealed. After a momentary inspection, she retrieved a bowl from a shelf and scooped some of the water from the bath tub. Using a cloth, Allegra began to deftly clean the wound with the precision of a monk's calligraphy. 




A Queen's Knight Ch. 12-14



"How did you discover such... intimate details about the prince?" Aldwyn asked.

"I slept with the prince's escort," Allegra replied plainly as she cleaned the wound before her.

Aldwyn was slightly puzzled, "From what I understood of your report, the prince's escort was of the same disposition as his prince."

"He enjoys the pleasures of both sexes."

"Does the prince know of his escort's... indiscretions?"

"Only those involving other men. I've even heard that the prince will watch from seclusion as his escort is engaged." 

"It would seem you've found a place suitable for your inclinations after all."

"Indeed," Allegra's smiled coyly as she took what should have been a cutting insult into an awkward compliment.

There was a long pause. Finally Allegra commented, "So the King has decided to honor you as a hero. If he were to honor you any more, he would have to adopt you."

Aldwyn immediately recognized this as the opening of Allegra's favorite interrogation method. "My patience for your commentary ran thin years ago. If you have something of substance to say, then say it. If not, say nothing."

Just then Allegra poked a section of new raw skin with the cloth. Aldwyn hissed as he gave Allegra a flash of anger. "I see time has not improved your temper," Allegra was smirking in a way that she knew greatly annoyed Aldwyn, "Hopefully your passions have remained intact as well. They were about your only redeeming features."

"Only you would consider them to be redeeming features." 

"You didn't seem to disagree at the time."

"I would appreciate not talking about this. The war brought out the worst in all of us. Besides, I was a much angrier man then." 

"You always did work up an... appetite after a battle. In fact, I'd wager that you've got the hunger now." One of Allegra's hands reached for Aldwyn's chest. At first Aldwyn didn't resist her advance, momentarily enjoying the familiar caress, but as her hand began to descend, he sharply grasped her wrist. 

"Are you going to finish with my wound or do I have to do it my self?" 

Allegra's expression momentarily turned serious as she began to tie the fresh bandage to Aldwyn's shoulder, but her enchantress self quickly returned, "All that pent up passion is going to have to come out some time. What are you holding it back for? Who are you holding it back for? Oh, don't tell me you and your lady..."  

Her voice was cut off as Aldwyn grabbed her by the throat and forced her against a wall. Aldwyn's voice was harsh, "Don't you ever speak of my lady in that fashion ever again!"

A sparkle of fear flashed in Allegra's eyes for an instant before Aldwyn removed his hand from her throat, regaining some of his composure. Allegra felt the skin where she had been grabbed and managed to whisper, "I guess I hit a nerve." Allegra's voice, still a whisper, turned serious, "You do fancy her, don't you?"

"During the war," Aldwyn's voice was soft, "I saw so much death. At the time, I did not question what I was doing. I followed my orders and carried out my duty. After I returned home, I began to reflect on what I had done and seen. So many good men died both under my command and by my sword. I began to wonder if it was worth the blood that had been shed." 

Aldwyn paused before continuing, "Then one day, I was summoned to my lord's chamber. He informed me that I was to be made captain of the guard. At the ceremony, I saw her; My Lady. I had not seen her for nearly seven years. She had been a child, barely a youth, when I'd left with her father. She had grown to a young beautiful woman. At that moment, I knew; for her, it was worth it. I knew I would do anything for her. I would fight for her. I would die for her. Yes, I love her, but she does not return my affections. But I can still serve her, and I will do so until the day I die, and that is enough for me," Aldwyn's voice was whisper by the time he finished. 

"I wouldn't be so sure," Allegra's voice was quickly returning.

"What?" Aldwyn asked.

"She used that incident during court to make sure she could keep you at her side indefinitely. I think she has plans for you," Allegra smiled, not a coy smile but a genuine smile.

Just as Allegra was finished, there was a knock at the door, "Sir Knight, the King Dietrich wishes your presence."

"You're wanted," Allegra smiled coyly.



A Queen's Knight Ch. 15-17



Chapter 15

Aldwyn stood before the ornately engraved doors of the King's study. The court maiden announced his presence, which was followed by the resonate voice of the king granting permission to enter. Aldwyn had hoped to properly bath before presenting himself, but that was now out of the question. He signed as the maiden opened the doors. The maiden stepped aside, allowing Aldwyn to enter first. 

Standing in front of the desk was the king and the lady Isana; both of them facing him. Aldwyn wasn't sure of what was going on, but he suspected that he was about to become involved in whatever they had been planning. After the king dismissed the maiden and the doors were shut, the king spoke, "Sir Knight, do you recall the debt of service you owe this lady?"

"Yes I do, you majesty," Aldwyn replied, "Does the lady wish to call upon what she is owed?"

"Yes she does," The king answered.

The lady stepped forward, "Knight Aldwyn, I call upon you to ensure my safety for the length of my life."

Surprise was a vast understatement of Aldwyn's response, "My lady... I am honored that you would entrust me with such a duty, and while I do not wish to seem hesitant or reluctant to fulfill my obligation, there is the conflict. I am still sworn to your noble father as the captain of the guard. I am due to depart and return to your father's service shortly after the wedding."

"That has been taken into consideration," The king replied, "I have already dispatched a messenger to your lord. Once he is made aware of the situation with the barbarians, and also of the lady's request for your continued presence, he will surely release you from your obligations to him. Besides, he still owes me a few favors, and surely your protégé... Lieutenant... Waren, I believe it is, should be up to the task."

Aldwyn was silent for a moment then answered, "It would be an honor to serve you my lady. Provided that your noble father releases me from my duties, I will gladly continue to protect you until my dieing breath." 

"Very well," The king interjected, "You are dismissed."

"Thank you kind King, My Lady," with that, Aldwyn left the room.

Isana smiled. It touched her to see him so devoted to her, but something seemed somewhat amiss about it. She didn't doubt the sincerity of his devotion, but why was he so devoted? Yes, she was his lady and he was sworn to defend her, but oaths only went so deep. In the relatively short time that they had really spent together, he had shown her unflinching dedication, and now he had all but deferred his loyalty to her father in preference for her. Something else was in play here. Whatever it was, Isana was glad of it... and of him.

Chapter 16

Deep in the castle, among the most ancient of the foundations were the most secure cells of the most secure dungeon in the land; reserved for captured enemy leaders, traitors, and the most vile of criminals. Here there were no limits with regard to what could be done to prisoners. In this inner sanctum, the king ruled absolutely in every way possible. 

In this dark dank pit lit only by a few torches, a single man stood in the center of the room. A thin lithe young man in fine robes looked about himself, half disgusted by the filthy conditions and half terrified by the fact that he had just been hauled out of his bed by a small troop of royal guards. They had brought him here to this cell deep inside the castle footings and had been standing there for some time, trying not to touch anything. 

Finally, there was the sound of steps on the long narrow stairway. The light of a torch illuminated the gated doorway. There was a jingle of keys, and sound of sliding metal. Then the door cranked open. In stepped a well dressed knight; tall, long dark hair, high cheek bones, and green eyes. The guard behind him closed the door, locked it and retreated back up the stairs. 

The young man wondered if this was a ploy by his lover, but if it was, it was a very elaborate one. If it was he certainly was looking forward to being ravished by this dark haired stranger. "You are the escort of the prince?" The knight asked.

"I am and you had better have a good explanation for bring me down here," The escort was playing up his resistance; just in case his lover was watching, he wanted to make sure he gave a realistic performance. 

"I am the Knight Aldwyn and I am in charge of the Lady Isana's personal security."

"What does that matter to me?" 

"Read this," The knight thrust a scroll of parchment towards him from his right hand. Somewhat confused by this, the escort took the parchment, walked over to one of the torches for light and began to read the document. Immediately he was struck by the title, "The report on the personal character of Prince Albert, Son of King Dietrich." As he continued to read, he was shocked to find that the document contained intimate details and secrets that he knew only a select few were privy to. It was dawning on him that this was no game, but in fact real. "Where did you get this?" the escorts voice was practically a whisper. 

"From you," The Knight answered.

"I didn't write this!" the escort's voice shrieked.

"But you dictated it to someone who was in the service of a foreign land," the knight replied, "Thankfully; in this case, I was the one who employed that someone. The secrets contained there are only known to me, the Lady Isana, and her hand maiden."

The escort looked on at the parchment in wonder. He couldn't possibly have been the source of this report... but so many of the details here could have only come from so many people and he was one of them. "But it couldn't have been me," the escort protested, "I would never betray my prince."

"I don't think you did it intentionally," The knight replied, "But you did reveal those secrets to someone. Someone whom you were intimate with... a woman."

It was impossible for the escort to believe. He had never told anyone he enjoyed the pleasures of both sexes. How could this knight know such details? How on earth could he... Then it dawned on the escort that he occasionally spoke freely with those he had shared his bed. He began to cry, "I never meant to... hurt anyone. Please don't tell Albert about this."

Before the escort fell completely apart the Knight interrupted, "He doesn't have to know. Only you, me, and the person in my employ know of your indiscretions. It can stay that way under two conditions."

"Name them."

"First, you provide me with all the names of the people you were intimate with and anyone else you might have confided secrets to, and second you swear never to divulge any information to any lover ever again."

"Done."

The knight walked over to the gated doorway and with a gloved fist banged on the gate and called, "Guard!" The steps on the stairway returned. The torchlight cast through the doorway, and the guard appeared at the gate. He handed a scroll of parchment, a quill, and an ink well to the knight through the gate and retreated up the stairs again. The knight placed the items on a bench near the doorway. "Write down the names," the knight instructed, then added, "This is your chance for redemption."

The escort walked over the bench, knelt down, and began to write down the names. His hand trembled slightly as he desperately fought trying to remember all of them and also to keep himself from crying. When he was confidant that he had them all, he stood with the list in his hand. As he handed the list over, the knight spoke, "If you ever betray the confidence of your prince again, I will see to it that you spend the rest of your life in this cell... and Albert will know why." Aldwyn suspected that the second part of that threat would be more devastating. 

Again the knight walked over to the gate, banged his fist, and called the guard. The guard appeared. "Take him back to his quarters," the knight ordered. The guard opened the gate and the lead the young man up the stairs. Aldwyn stayed a moment and read the names. 

Chapter 17

The Lady Isana and the King Dietrich sat at the table discussing the pending matter of the fall crop harvest when there was a knock at the door. "The Knight Aldwyn is here at your request!" came the voice of... the knight Sheridan, strangely enough.

"Enter," boomed the king. Aldwyn and Sheridan entered the room, both of them were smiling. 

"I just received word from your Lord, Knight Aldwyn," The king spoke, "He has agreed to release you from his service, thus allowing you to remain here."

"That is excellent news majesty," Aldwyn responded, "However I do believe I have better news."

"What news is that?" Isana asked perplexed.

"We have found a man who sold information to the barbarians," Aldwyn answered, "In fact, it was information that he provided them that made the attempt to kidnap you possible, my lady."

"Where is he?" Isana felt a surge of wrath.

"Guards!" Sheridan called over his shoulder. Four heavily armed men walked in apparently carrying the accused man. Sheridan pointed to a spot on the floor and the four men dropped the man there. The four guards withdrew and took positions to the sides of the room. 

The man on the floor laid there groaning. He stirred only a little. Finally he managed to sit up. His face was badly bruised, his shirt was torn, and there was dry blood scattered all over him. It was obvious that this man had been severely beaten.

"What happened to him?" Isana asked.

"My apologies for his appearance Lady," Aldwyn spoke in a gentile manor, "When we arrived, he resisted arrest and had to be taken by force. Also we had to extract the confession from him."

"How can you be sure that his confession isn't false?"

"In addition to confirming many details surrounding these events," Aldwyn removed a small purse from his belt, "We found these in his possession." Aldwyn poured the contents of the purse into his hand, "Thirteen gold talon ingots; the standard currency in barbarian lands. He used coins like these to pay for his excesses at the public house and the brothels. Also he recently paid off several of his personal debts with like currency. Also we have a witness who can confirm that this man had knowledge of your lady's travel arrangements."

"How did you find this man?" the King asked.

The Knight Sheridan stepped forward, "The knight Aldwyn discovered the method by which this man was able to gather his information, then compiled names of suspects. Investigations of the suspects by the royal guard lead to this man's arrest."

"How was this man able to gather such sensitive information?" the King asked.

"That is a delicate matter which I have dealt with, your majesty," Aldwyn answered, "I assure you the issue has been resolved."

The king looked over to the lady. Her expression obviously meant 'trust him.'

"Alright," the king accepted Aldwyn's response, "My dear Lady Isana, here is a man who bares a significant amount of responsibility for the assault on your person. What punishment would you consider appropriate for this man?"

Isana took a moment to examine the man who sat on the floor. "I want to be angry at this man, but I find myself pitying this pathetic creature before me."

"Lady!" Aldwyn spoke out of turn, "Do not be fooled by this man's appearance! While you were at the mercy of those barbarians, this man was out whoring and drinking to his gluttonous heart's content, paying for it with the gold that he sold you for! He is without remorse or moral conscience! His only regret is that he been caught! He must be made an example of!"

"You forget yourself Knight Aldwyn," the King spoke deliberately, expressing no connotation in his tone.

"My apologies," Aldwyn's gaze dropped, "My comments were out of place."

"Lady," The king still spoke without connotation in his tone, "The knight is right. This man has betrayed you and the crown. He must be made an example of. What that example is, is up to you."

The lady continued to look at the pitiful man on the floor. "Let me see his eyes," Isana commanded. Aldwyn grabbed a lock of the man's hair and yanked until his gaze met the lady's. The lady looked into the man's eyes. He stared blankly at her. There was no sign of his true feelings. He was already dead on the inside. She considered if it was really worth executing this man, but then she remembered Alicia: How terrified that golden girl had been; the thought of what might have been done to her had they reached barbarian lands; that beautiful girl being forced upon by those hairy brutes.

"Cut off his head," the lady commanded, "Put in a basket, and send it to Damien, as a warning. Burn his body."

"With pleasure my lady," Aldwyn grinned. The guards stepped forward, picked up the man from the floor and marched out the door. The Knights Aldwyn and Sheridan were close behind.

"Certainly harsh punishment," the king observed.

"An example must be made," Isana answered mimicking the king's unexpressive tone.



A Queen's Knight Ch. 18



Chapter 18

Aldwyn sat at the fireside in his quarters. Witnessing the execution of the traitor that afternoon had left him unsettled. Normally, he would have taken some form of satisfaction in his work. Also he would have taken some joy in the knowledge that the lady was safe and the criminal was dead, but he felt none of this, only vague uncertainty. 

There was no doubt that the traitor deserved his end, but somehow it felt hollow. The man held no malice for the lady or the crown. It was his insatiable appetites that drove him to such means for support. He was a weak minded fool with high ranking friends. At the time of the traitor's arrest, Aldwyn had to restrain himself from outright torturing the man to death, but now it seemed an almost petty excuse for an execution... Then again, the man was an almost petty excuse for being alive at all. In a way, it might have been worse to let the man rot in the dungeon. 

Besides all that, what was truly dissatisfying about the whole matter was that the man had no proof of exactly whom he had sold the information; only a general description of the man who paid him and the place of their meetings, nothing substantial. 

Aldwyn knew that this mystery man was probably long gone by now, and even if he had been captured as well, it still wouldn't have made much of a difference; Just another underling funneling secrets. Damien! Damien was the real culprit. He was the real danger. He was the real threat. Seeing that barbarian's severed head on a pike, his lifeless eyes staring off into infinite darkness, his purple tongue drooping from his open mouth, that would be justice. 

At that moment, his thoughts were interrupted by a soft voice at his door, "Sir Knight, may I come in?"

"Yes," Aldwyn answered wondering who would be at his door at this late hour. The door slowly opened and much to his surprise it was Alicia dressed in a simple white night grown. "What brings you here at this hour? Shouldn't you be resting for the lady's wedding tomorrow?" Aldwyn asked.

"I just...," She hesitated, "I just need someone to talk to and I just couldn't think of anyone else."

"What of your lady? Couldn't you discuss whatever the matter is with her?"

"She is the matter I wish to discuss." Aldwyn expression turned from slightly puzzled to concerned. "Please have a seat," Aldwyn gestured to a chair across the hearth from him. "What is it about the lady that troubles you?"

Alicia sat in the chair across from Aldwyn, but she didn't look at him. Rather she looked down at her hands which she was rubbing together, more out of nervousness than anything else. "The lady trusts me. If she ever found out I..."

"I will never speak of this to anyone," Aldwyn interrupted, "You may speak freely to me."

"Thank you," Alicia's voice trembled slightly, "On the day of our arrival, the King spoke with the lady privately. He told her that the prince won't be the one to rule, that she will; also that he was the one who started that awful rumor that he would be the true father of her children; that it was all a ruse; that she may choose the father of her child."

Surprise would be a significant understatement of Aldwyn's reaction to what he had just been told. He sat in stunned silence for several moments, staring into the fire, as he began to process this young woman's revelations. "Why are you telling me this?" Aldwyn asked not knowing what other question to ask. 

Alicia's gaze was still cast low, "I... I'm not sure how I should feel about this."

Aldwyn was contemplative for a moment, then asked, "How does our lady feel about this?"

"She seems eager to assume her duties as Queen, but... I don't want to call it hesitation... rather she seems unsettled by the prospect of carrying the burden as Queen."

"That's a very good sign," Aldwyn replied, "That means she doesn't think she is ready to be Queen. She is concerned about failing her duties as sovereign, which of course means she intends to fulfill those duties."

He continued, "If she felt she were ready that would mean she wasn't concerned with fulfilling her duties, most likely because she had no intention of fulfilling them, but pursuing her own interests. Unfortunately this lack of concern has all too often been mistaken as readiness, allowing very undeserving people to ascend the throne in many kingdoms."

"So, how should I feel about this?" Alicia repeated her question.

"Well, our lady is going to be a ruler of a great country. You could be happy in that she will have all the power, authority, and responsibility she could ever want. You could also be compassionate, since our lady will need all the support she can get. She is headstrong and wise beyond her years, but I suspect that in times ahead she will need comfort from those closest to her, and I can think of none closer to her than you."

Alicia thought all this logical and some of her anxiety began to subside. She rested her hands in her lap and raised her gaze to the hearth fire. She still couldn't bring herself to face the knight full on, but she was becoming accustomed to his voice. Then Aldwyn spoke again.

"As for the lady being able to select the father of her children, bare in mind that many noble persons married for sake of alliances have found themselves in their marriage bed with someone whom they'd as soon spurn as a rabid dog than ever touch. Rather than being required to breed with a man not of her choosing, she has the chance to carefully select who she desires. It is rare choice, especially for those of noble birth. You could again be happy for her and supportive of her."

As before the knight's words were logical to Alicia but somehow not as reassured. In fact, now she felt worse. Her gaze dropped to her hands again and sat silently.

"I take it from your reaction, I wasn't helpful."

"Yes you were sire, but... I just don't feel... I'm not feeling the way I should."

"What are you feeling, then?"

Alicia paused considering what exactly she was feeling. "I... I'm not sure what but it isn't happy. It's like..." Alicia's voice trailed off.

"Jealousy?" Aldwyn guessed.

"What? NO!" Alicia reacted, "Why would I be jealous of my lady?"

"Perhaps because she has a choice that you probably won't have," Aldwyn observed, "Or perhaps because it means that someone besides you will share your lady's bed."

Alicia was stunned beyond belief. So stunned was she, that she momentarily lost her inhibition and looked directly at the knight. Once her eyes made contact with those green irises of his, she couldn't break the connection. "Ho-how-how-di-did you..." She stuttered incoherently.

Aldwyn interrupted her, "I've seen how you look upon your lady and how she looks on you. Most would have dismissed it, but there is a deep bond between you and your lady."

Fear quickly gripped her heart, "You mustn't tell anyone!" she nearly she shrieked as she stood, "You can't! It would ruin her!" She knew that such love as theirs was taboo and if made public could scandalized her lady. Alicia's rant quickly decomposed into incoherent syllables laced with building tears. 

"As I said before," Aldwyn stood from his seat as well, "I will never speak of this to anyone."

"Thank you," Alicia still fought her tears. Still standing, she closed her eyes, turned towards the hearth, feeling the warmth of the fire, and began to calm herself. 

"Alicia," Aldwyn's voice felt soothing, "I would never do anything to harm you or our lady, I would never let anything happen to either of you, and I would lay down my life to keep you and our lady safe."

"But for her more than for me," Alicia's voice was accusatory, almost harsh. 

"What do you mean by that?" Aldwyn was thoroughly confused. He had never heard her speak in such a tone. In fact, he had come to believe her incapable of it.

"You are in love with her," Alicia turned from the fire, looked up to Aldwyn with tear-welled eyes and glared at him. Her eyes were no longer submissive, but blazing blue, like the base of a candle flame. Her blond hair was tinted red by the cast of the dying fire in the heart, making her golden mane look blaze orange. Aldwyn was truly amazed by the forcefulness of her expression. This was the first time he had ever seen her stand up to anyone, let alone him. He was further impressed by her words.

"How did you know?" Aldwyn asked as he stepped back.

"For years I have seen men lust after my lady," Alicia's voice was laced with bitterness, "But you were the worst. You were always there in court. I saw you as you gazed at my lady, yet never once did you ever approach her or give any sign of what was so obviously written on your face. No, rather you have gone out of your way to serve her every possible need while never showing any overt sign of affection towards her, endearing yourself to her." Momentarily, Alicia sighed as she closed her eyes, letting the tears roll down her cheeks. She reopened her anger-filled eyes and focused them on Aldwyn as she continued, "I have silently endured this knowing that my lady truly cared for me. Now that she is seeking a father for her children, you are more than ready to serve her yet again; ready to take her away for me!" 

Angry tears freely flowed from her eyes, as she rushed towards him and started to wildly thrash at the knight's chest with her fists. Aldwyn had not though it possible for this young woman to raise a hand in anger and was completely unprepared for the assault. Fortunately for Aldwyn, the blows were poorly aimed, and Alicia's physical strength relative to his was hardly comparable. 

He quickly managed to get her in a bear hug, pinning her forearms between their chests. He also took a very small step towards her; forcing his feet between hers thus keeping her legs parted enough so that she would be hard pressed to kick him in the groin. Still, even in his iron grasp, she continued to thrash and squirm, screaming and crying as she did so. 

After a few moments when it had become apparent, even to Alicia, that her attempt to harm Aldwyn was pointless, the struggling stopped, and the cries and screams gave way to muffled sobbing as she buried her face into the knight's chest. With her strength depleted, Alicia collapsed against Aldwyn. Aldwyn still held her in the bear hug, only now supporting her rather than restraining her. 

"This little girl has more spirit in her that I thought," Aldwyn mused silently. He knew that he intimidated her and surly she had to have known that in any physical combat with him he would be victorious. Yet faced with a perceived threat to her relationship with her lady, she was willing to strike out against him. Not only overcoming her fear of him but also facing certain defeat, she plunged head long at him with all she had. That took more courage than he had seen from some of the veterans of the last barbarian war. 

Finally Alicia ran out of tears. With some finesse, Aldwyn managed to maneuver Alicia back over to her seat by the hearth, and gently set her down in the seat. Slowly, he began to disengage himself from the embrace. 

Kneeling down next to her, Aldwyn brushed away the stray hairs that had fallen into her face. Her eyes were reddened, and slightly swollen. "Alicia," Aldwyn whispered, "neither I nor anyone or anything in all of creation could ever break the bond between you and Isana. She loves you and you love her far too much for that to happen. What on Earth possessed you to think otherwise?" Aldwyn paused for an instant than added in a slightly more questioning tone, "What made you think that the Lady would want me?"

"She speaks of you often," Her tear stained eyes gazed into the fire again, "She thinks highly of you. She finds you... strong, brave, intelligent, handsome, and comforting... as do I."

"You?" Aldwyn was truly lost now, "But you and your lady... But I thought I intimidated you." "You do intimidate me, but those qualities that are intimidating are also enchanting. As much as I wish to run away from you right now, I also wish run into your arms, to feel your strength, your touch, your compassion, like back at the bath house when... when you kissed me."

Hearing these words from this brave young woman aroused something deep inside him and almost without thinking Aldwyn asked, "You mean like this?" Aldwyn slowly leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on her lips. 

At first, Alicia froze. It felt so surreal. Her heart fluttered, her skin crawled, and the fine hairs all over her body stood on end. All the conflicting emotions that had been stirred within her were now a maelstrom that was making her lightheaded. All conscious thoughts ceased as her most primal instincts fought each other. 

With a suddenness that surprised her as much as it did Aldwyn, she lunged forward, throwing her arms around Aldwyn's neck as she showered him with kisses. At first, Aldwyn thought this was another attack and as soon as he regained his balance, grasped Alicia's upper arms and started to remove them, but then he realized what she was doing. This only intensified the deep arousal in him, further suppressing his normally rational mind. He released her arms and tenderly embraced her, putting his arms around waist. 

As Alicia's frenzy began to subside, Aldwyn began to return her kisses, only more deliberate, more slowly, gradually becoming more assertive. Alicia slowed down, allowing the knight to set the pace. Finally after a moment, their lips met fully and this time, Aldwyn locked onto her mouth, kissing her deeply, slowly, passionately. 

From his early experiences with Allegra, Aldwyn knew how to pleasure a woman. While these skills had been out of use for some time, he still recalled quite a bit of knowledge. At first the kiss was just locked lips, then Aldwyn began to open his mouth. Slowly his tongue began to slowly sweep across Alicia's lips. Gradually his tongue began to probe the slit of her mouth. She didn't fully understand what was happening but she knew it felt good, so she didn't resist. She allowed his tongue into her mouth. Slowly he swept his tongue over her teeth and gums, searching out her mouth. This felt strange to Alicia but good. Suddenly Alicia became aware of the pleasing tightness that sat low in her stomach. 

She also became aware of just how sensitive her skin had become. She could distinctly feel the texture of her night gown against her body, especially on her breasts where the fabric was crushed against the knight's chest, also where his hands and arms were touching her as well. She could feel the fine hairs of his face against hers. She could feel the soft wool of his clothing under her hands. She could also feel the steady warmth of his flesh where ever they touched. It was so overwhelming to Alicia, but it all felt so wonderful. Her body had never been so alive, and she knew she wanted more, she needed more, much more. 

Alicia broke the kiss. As much as she needed the kiss to last, she needed to breathe more. Her breathing was ragged, short, heavy, panting. As Alicia tried to catch her breath, Aldwyn left a trail of kissed her cheek, along her jaw, down her neck to her collar bone. The pleasing tightness inside her was becoming tighter, almost aching now. Aldwyn's hands slowly roved over her gown, leaving her flesh tingling in their wake. 

Alicia sighed deeply. Her face was a contortion of pleasures. This was far too new and exciting. It was too much and yet somehow not enough. Her body was humming in ways she did not understand, but she knew that this was something very special, and she knew she wanted it to continue. She just didn't know how much more she could handle. 

Just at that moment, Aldwyn stilled his hands and raised his head. "Alicia," Aldwyn's voice trembled slightly, "Before this goes any further, I need to hear something from you. Are you sure this is what you want?"

Alicia's mind was swimming, barely comprehending the question. Primal instincts had replaced her reason. It took her a moment to collect herself to just form any words. "I-I-I wa-want..." she sighed, "I don't know... I-I've never done this before."

Aldwyn rested his forehead on her shoulder. He was silent for a moment. Alicia wondered, "What's wrong?"

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have..." There was genuine remorse in his voice.

"Why? What is it?" Alicia wondered if she had upset him.

"You are still virgin. I will not be the one to take that from you." His voice seemed to harden in resolution.

"But..." Alicia wanted to protest but she wasn't sure how or what to protest, "I... You... Please don't stop."

"I can't," Aldwyn's voice trembled again. All was quiet for a moment then Aldwyn added, "Perhaps... there is something."

"What?" Alicia asked curiously hopeful.

Deftly Aldwyn scooped Alicia up in his arms, stood and carried her over the ample bed. Aldwyn laid her on the bed ever so gently on her back, making sure her legs hung off the edge. Aldwyn knelt between her legs. She had no idea what was about to happen. 

It was an utterly bizarre sight to Alicia; this knight, a man of great power and strength kneeling before her, as though she were his superior. She had never felt like she was in a position of power before. Oddly it felt good, like everything so far. She did not resist the knight's advance.

As Aldwyn steeled himself for what he was about to do, he looked deep into Alicia's eyes. He signed, then placed his hands lightly on her calves, feeling the soft supple flesh against his palms. His hands gingerly glided over her skin, under the hem of her nightgown. His caresses continued up to her thighs. The firm and well toned muscles seemed to shiver as Alicia's breathing quickened. 

His hands roved to the slightly humid regions of her inner thighs. Alicia's shivers became more intense as did her breathing as his fingers came closer to the tightness that sat low in Alicia's belly. The sensations that Aldwyn was creating were driving Alicia mad with desire. She felt this urge to grab Aldwyn and pull him closer, but had no idea how or if that would help. 

Just as Alicia thought Aldwyn was about touch her in the most intimate of places, his hands diverged from their course and spread out over the top of her thighs, just at the crease of the hip. His hands swept over her petite hips and down her outer thighs as he leaned forward, bringing his head close to her lap. His hands retreated back down to almost where they started, but this time as his hands came back up, the hem of her nightgown came with them.

As Aldwyn's hands roamed back up the sides of Alicia's legs, she became exposed to him. She was horrified by the idea of being exposed in this way. She thought she would die of embarrassment but for reasons she didn't understand, she still did not resist Aldwyn's caresses. In fact when he reached her knees, she raised her hips off the bed, permitting him further access to her most intimate places. 

Aldwyn could see that Alicia was extremely aroused and that it wouldn't take much for her to reach her peak now, but he did not rush. He knew how to delay and intensify a woman's arousal for quite some time, and he wanted to make sure this was very pleasurable for her. He proceeded with his delicate caresses. 

He continued to push the nightgown up as his hands meandered up the flanks of her torso. He then began to kiss the top of her thighs. As his hands proceeded up, so did his kisses. When Aldwyn's fingertips touched the bottom row of Alicia's ribs, he paused. The particular spot of her thigh that Aldwyn had stopped on, he gently began to suck on it, dampening it slightly with his tongue, as his fingers dipped back under the nightgown. 

By now Aldwyn could easily smell Alicia's arousal. She was more than ready to receive him, and he was more than tempted by the thought, but quickly suppressed the urge. He planed to bring this young woman to her peak and that was it. Her virginity would remain intact. 




A Queen's Knight Ch. 18



As his fingers resumed their wandering over her silken skin, he blew on the spot that he had moistened. A deep shudder ran through her entire body, and a moan that was almost lewd erupted from her lips. Alicia closed her eyes tightly and began to chew on her lips. 

Aldwyn's nose was almost touching the juncture of Alicia's sex and his index and thumb fingers were tracing the outline of Alicia's breasts. Starting gently then more firmly, Aldwyn rhythmically curled his fingers around each of Alicia's breasts, as though he were forming them into cones. Alicia's groans came in long drawn out signs as pulses of pleasure coursed from her breasts, adding to that aching tightness low in her stomach. With each squeeze and the corresponding pulse of pleasure, Alicia saw swirling colors behind the lids of her eyes. 

Without warning, Aldwyn placed his tongue on the outer lips of Alicia's sex. A sharp yelp rang out of Alicia as a massive shock of gratification ripped through her. Aldwyn cupped both breasts firmly with both hands. The soft orbs began to squeeze out between his fingers. His index fingers found the small but very pert nipples. Again Aldwyn tongued the outer folds of Alicia's sex as he rubbed and squeezed her nipples between his fingers. Alicia began to wail and moan obscenely as she clawed at the bed linens.

Aldwyn's position gave him less than perfect access to Alicia, but for his purpose but it was sufficient for the task. Ducking his head as low as possible, he began to probe her slit with his tongue. With careful maneuvering, Aldwyn's tongue slid inside her opening, placing his nose in a tuft of fine blonde hairs. Alicia squirmed and cried as Aldwyn licked her deeply. He was also mindful to give her breasts proper attention. 

This was it for Alicia. The ache deep inside her was being sated. Suddenly Alicia's body went stiff as though it were bracing itself for something. Finally a massive spasm like nothing Alicia had ever known or ever though possible rang through her, both emanating and accumulating at her sex. She screamed in short panting bursts. Still Aldwyn remained with his nose in her fine blonde hairs and his hands clasped about her breasts. 

It was not long before Alicia's body went ridged again, followed by another ripping spasm... and another... and another... Alicia's screams became inarticulate grunting sounds as her mind turned to jelly. Eventually each succeeding spasm blended together into a hazy cloud of delight. Somewhere in this haze, Alicia lost all conscious thought.