Disclaimers ~ These characters belong to me. If they have a passing resemblance to you or share your name, it's purely coincidental.
Violence/ bad language ~ Spousal abuse, and some fighting scenes. Some bad language.
Love/sex ~ Romance between consenting women. Relations between a man & woman. If this offends you, you won't like this story. Well...maybe you will, but you'll just be tutting a lot at what my imagination conjured up. Am I ashamed? Nah, not really.
Author's note ~ Questions, comments & thoughts all welcome. Loves_to_write_fic@yahoo.co.uk
Copyright © December 2008
Chapter Thirteen
"Now is the time to strike!" Goodwyn, Earl of Wessex, growled. Hard grey eyes locked onto Berwyn. "I have grown weary of you putting us off, boy! I don't care who you are or what power you say you have over the King. I don't trust you."
"Lord Goodwyn, I assure you..." Berwyn started only to be interrupted.
"Your assurances mean nothing to me, boy!" Goodwyn barked. "I've had enough," he looked around at his fellow plotters. "The prince and his men are gone, soon to return. They will be weary, they will be expecting some relaxation time, and we won't give it to them. I say we start our attack."
The Duke of Cornwall stood up. "I agree."
Brandon Ortceard, Marquess of Dublin, and Winston Pond, Earl of East Anglia, both nodded their agreement.
"No!" Berwyn shouted. "The King had me do a job that gave me power over him. He swiftly agreed to give me a title and some land. Would he have done that if the job wasn't of great importance?"
"What is this job you keep referring to?" Winston asked, unimpressed. "We only have your word that there even is a job!"
The group of men looked in interest at the younger man, who sighed heavily.
"King Edward is beginning to think His Royal Highness is weak. He wanted to make sure he had Ripley under his thumb and the only way he saw he could achieve that, was to have the peasant under his thumb," Berwyn told them. "He had me..." I can't tell them, it will give them too much power, power which I want. "He had me catch her in an intimate clinch with someone who wasn't her husband, all set up of course, but she doesn't know that. So you see, now the King has Ripley under his thumb, the prince will surely rule just like Edward."
"And that helps us how?" Brandon asked.
"Don't you see?" Berwyn questioned. "If we side with Ripley, he will surely give us more power. If I tell him what his father ordered me to do, he will see what an ally I am. And with me, comes my men and...you. How easy will it be to plot and take over if the prince is on our side?"
Lord Green nodded eagerly. "He has a point," the small, stocky Lord said. "Why not drive a wedge between the two, play them off against each other?"
"Drive a wedge between them," Berwyn repeated, mind awhirl with how he could use that to his advantage. I could hint at what occurred between the girl and I, drive Ripley mad until he demands to know from the King. When Ripley finds out the truth, surely he will be driven to attack me, what with his short temper and disliking of me. If I were to kill him...I would be the only heir. Edward would have to recognise me for there would be no other! Not wanting to let on, Berwyn smiled. "I have a plan, but we must wait for the prince's return. Do I have all of your agreements?"
Eyebrows lifted in question, Montgomery slowly nodded. "I agree to wait."
"As do I," Lord Green said, not wanting to be caught up in any violence.
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt," Winston said.
Brandon and Goodwyn looked at each other, neither happy with their plans being put on hold again. They were action men; they wanted to attack now, while the castle was most vulnerable. Sharing an understanding glance, the two men looked at Berwyn and agreed to wait.
The men started filing out of Goodwyn's home, the raven-haired Lord holding back Brandon. "Let's draw up battle plans and go over tactics and strategies. I don't trust Berwyn and the others are so reluctant I'm beginning to doubt their intentions." He looked seriously at the red-haired Marquess. "If you want to back out now, tell me."
Brandon took the Lord's hand. "I am with you Lord Goodwyn, have no doubt."
* * * * *
Kelsey rose quickly from her bed and hurried over to her chamber pot, retching fiercely once she was bent over the porcelain bowl. After throwing up four times, her stomach now completely empty, she stood up straight and walked over to her water jug, pouring herself a cup of water to rinse out her mouth. Dear Lord, whatever has made me so sick? Rinsing out her mouth, she called for some almond milk to be sent up to her, hoping that would settle her rolling stomach. Feeling shaky, Kelsey made her way back to bed, curling into a ball under the still warm covers. I must go and see the castle doctor sometime today. I have been feeling terrible ever since that...that stranger attacked me. She shivered. Perhaps he can prescribe some herbs to settle me down and some to help me sleep.
A swift knock on her chamber door alerted her to a servant's arrival. She watched the young woman walk in and over to her bed, setting the glass of milk on the bedside table.
"Will there be anything else, ma'am?"
"No, thank you." Kelsey watched the woman start to retreat. "Actually...would you ask the cook to prepare me some eels with some spinach on the side, please?"
The young girl looked at the princess to see if she was joking. Seeing Kelsey was quite serious, she nodded and took her leave.
Kelsey picked up her glass of milk and gulped down half it of it, feeling better afterwards. Getting up as her ladies-in-waiting entered, she smiled and made polite conversation as they went about picking her dress for the day, talking excitedly as always. A knock on her door drew their attention. Barclay, Ripley's steward entering.
"I'm sorry to disturb you so early, Your Highness."
"Not at all, Barclay. How are you? Is all well?"
The raven-haired man smiled. "I'm well, thank you. A letter arrived from the prince, Your Highness. I thought you would like to see it right away."
Kelsey smiled brightly and hurried over to the steward, taking the letter he held out. "Thank you, Barclay." The man left and Kelsey patiently got dressed and ready for the day, wanting to be alone to read her husband's letter.
Seated on the end of her bed, she slowly read over Ripley's flowing words again and again, her heart expanding with love for her husband. "Oh, Ripley! I'll see you soon." She kissed the bottom of the letter, Ripley's signature, and stood to go and speak with the King.
Leaving her chambers, Kelsey made her way through the castle towards the King's office. She stopped suddenly, a hand flying to her stomach as she felt nauseous again. Lord above, I must go and see the doctor. Taking a couple of steadying breaths, she got on her way again, finally reaching the corridor where Edward's office was.
"Your Highness," Chesney greeted with a warm smile, as he stepped out of Edward's office. "Is everything all right?"
"Hello, Chesney. Yes, everything is fine. I received a letter from Ripley this morn and I want to discuss it with the King."
"Certainly, one moment while I inform the King of your presence." The brown-haired man turned and knocked on the door he had just closed, then stepped inside. He quickly appeared and smiled at the nervous young woman. "Go right in, Your Highness."
"Thank you, Chesney, you have a good day." She stepped through the door and swallowed nervously as her eyes landed on the imposing King. "Your Highness," she greeted, curtsying.
"Chesney said you received a letter from Ripley. Is all well?"
"Yes, Your Highness. He is due to return home by the end of the week."
Edward found himself looking at the girl's stomach, wondering if his plan had worked. There has been no indication so far and now Ripley is due home. As his eyes lifted, he blushed to find Kelsey had caught him staring. "Excellent. We shall hold a grand banquet to welcome them all home. Do you think you can get the castle prepared in time?"
What was that about? Kelsey nodded. "Yes, Your Highness."
"Good. Is there...anything else?"
"No, Your Highness. I shall let you get back to business." Curtsying, Kelsey took her leave and decided it was time for breakfast before she did anything else.
* * * * *
Kelsey made her way out into the bustling courtyard and towards the doctor's residence, smiling and greeting those who bowed to her in respect. Reaching the simple home, she knocked on the closed door and waited.
Alden blinked in surprise as he opened the door to Kelsey. "Your...Your Highness? Come in, come in." He opened the door wide and stepped aside so she could enter. "Take a seat, Your Highness. I shall see to you right away."
Hearing a low moaning coming from the back of the house, blue eyes turned to the older man. "You have a patient?"
"I am just finishing up with a patient, Your Highness."
Kelsey smiled warmly. "Then by all means, tend to the poor soul. It sounds like they are in a great deal of pain. Take your time, doctor, I am in no rush."
Alden smiled and nodded. "Thank you for being so understanding, Your Highness. Can I get you anything? A drink, something to eat?"
Kelsey waved Alden off. "No, I am fine, thank you. But I do have a request, please call me Kelsey."
Alden bowed his head. "Would be an honour, milady." Satisfied the young girl wasn't hurt or in desperate need of his attention, Alden returned to the maid who had come to see him.
Kelsey took her time alone to glance around the doctor's humble home. It smelt of herbs and apples, a unique scent she had to admit. The house itself was very dim, the fire lit and providing light and heat, along with a candle or two scattered around. She concluded this was his living area, the back of the house providing a place for his patients to be treated. The inviting warmth of the small room and the comfortable chair she had taken a seat in, made Kelsey sleepy and she found her eyelids getting heavier and heavier, until slowly she drifted to sleep.
Alden blinked in surprise as he walked through from the back room with the maid, both of them looking at the slumbering princess, Alden in concern, the maid in wonder. When it had been declared Ripley was to marry a common girl, the castle staff had been worried the girl would turn out to be a right madam, the sudden power she had going to her head and making her harsh and mean towards them. They had been surprised, and relieved, when it turned out Kelsey was very down to earth and the friendliest girl you could meet. She had made many friends with the castle staff; they in turn adored her and were happy to do whatever they could for her.
A gentle hand on her shoulder woke Kelsey, blue eyes blinking in confusion until they adjusted to the dim light. "Oh, doctor! I am so sorry! I didn't mean to be so rude!"
Alden smiled kindly. "'Tis quite all right, milady. I have found myself slumbering many a time myself once settling in that chair. Now, may I ask what has brought you to my door?"
Blushing in embarrassment, Kelsey cleared her throat as she tried to get back her composure. "Oh, uhm...I have been feeling unwell, doctor. I was quite sick this morn, throwing up a number of times as my stomach wouldn't settle. And I haven't been sleeping well at night, and find myself fatigued throughout the day."
"I see. Would you like to come through to the back and I shall check you over," Alden said, a hand pointing in the direction of the back of his home. He led the way, his expression thoughtful as he went over what could be wrong with the young woman. Getting the strawberry-blonde settled onto his work bench, covered with a number of thick blankets to make it comfortable, he gave Kelsey a thorough examination, probing her and asking all sorts of questions, including very sensitive ones.
As Kelsey stood up, cheeks aflame at the sensitive examination and embarrassing questions, she straightened her skirts and made herself presentable once again. "So, doctor, whatever could be wrong with me?"
Alden didn't tell her anything specific. "'Tis possibly just a bug or some bad food you may have eaten, I shall give you some ginger that will settle your stomach, I suggest you make some nice tea with it whenever you feel ill. I also suggest you get plenty of rest, eat nourishing food whenever you get the urge and it should pass eventually."
Smiling in relief, Kelsey took the kind man's hand. "Thank you, doctor. I shall do all you say. My husband is due home and I want to be well for him."
Alden walked the princess to the front door and waved her off, closing the door as he stepped back inside. I have to go see the King!
* * * * *
Chesney knocked hard and entered the King's office, a look of concern marring his face. "Your Highness, Alden is here to see you."
Edward frowned. "I'm not sick, I haven't called for him?"
"He says 'tis do with the young princess."
Edward sat back in his chair. "I see. Well, send him in then." Grey eyes watched his steward bow, then back out the room, quickly returning with the elderly doctor. "Alden, what brings you to me in regards to young Kelsey?"
Standing up straight having bowed in respect for the King, Alden cleared his throat nervously, knowing he could lose his head for what he was about to say. "Well you see..."
"Would you like a drink?"
Alden nodded eagerly and sat down in the chair Edward pointed to, watching the big King stand and walk over to the table that held his wine jug.
"Continue, Alden, I am listening."
"The uhh...the young princess came to see me this morn, Your Highness, complaining of feeling ill and fatigued."
"I see." Edward handed the doctor a jewelled goblet and walked around his desk to reclaim his seat. "She is...all right though?"
"That's the thing, Your Highness. She is in very good health."
Edward frowned. "Then why is she ill? Come on, man, spit it out."
"I believe...I believe she may be...with child," Alden stuttered, eyes closing as he waited for the King to bellow for his guards and have him hauled away.
Edward smiled, pleased indeed with this news. "Excellent! This is excellent news, Alden!"
Light green eyes opened in confusion. "It is, Your Highness?"
"Yes. The prince is to have an heir!"
"But...but the prince...Ripley can't..."
Grey eyes hardened as they looked upon the confused doctor. "Only a select few know that, doctor. This was...arranged, so that the line may continue."
"I see. Well...congratulations, Your Highness."
"Thank you, Alden," Edward smiled, thoughts racing with how he would break this to Ripley. "Tell me, Alden, did you inform Kelsey of her...condition?"
"No, Your Highness. I thought it strange that she could be with child and thought it best to inform you first."
"Good thinking. I want to keep it quiet until Ripley returns. We shall be holding a banquet to celebrate his safe return home and it will be the best news we can share with those who attend."
* * * * *
Ripley rode her horse hard as the stone wall of the castle sat behind came into view. The pounding of the horses behind her letting her know her men were just as eager to get home to their loved ones.
Winter was on its way once again. The picturesque countryside that surrounded the castle was awash with autumn colours, rather than the lush green and vibrant mixture of summer colours it had been when Ripley had left months before. The trees were slowly losing their brown and reddish leaves, the stark, naked branches visible. The air carried a chill with it, the sky above promising rain and snow soon to come.
Ripley didn't care. She was home and didn't plan on leaving again any time soon. She couldn't wait to see her wife, hold her in her arms and snuggle up with her in front of a roaring fire.
The doors that shut out the world at the outer wall opened, the men on duty cheering the returning soldiers back. Ripley smiled as her black war horse ran the dirt path that led to home without her guidance. She leaned forward, close to his ears. "You know you're way home, old boy. That is good to know!" Charging over the drawbridge, beneath the portcullis, she heard the cheers of the archers on guard duty and waved, earning a louder cheer. The courtyard was bustling with life as usual and she slowed to a gentle trot.
Ripley jumped from her saddle as she spotted her squire, Robinson running towards her. "Take good care of Lucifer, Robinson. He has served me well and deserves the very best."
"Yes, Your Highness. I'll see right by him," the teenager bowed, before taking the big horses reins.
Ripley marched through the open front doors of the castle, a destination in mind. Walking briskly through the corridor, she acknowledged the castle staff that stopped and bowed respectfully, smiling and nodding as they offered her words welcoming her back.
"Your Highness!" Chesney called out, hurrying to catch up with Ripley.
"Not now, Chesney. I must see my wife."
"But, Your Highness, your father wishes to speak with you regarding many things!"
"He can wait, Chesney." Smiling broadly, Ripley took the stone steps two at a time, eager to see Kelsey and hold her in her arms. Marching along the corridor that led to Kelsey's chambers, she felt her heart pounding in her chest. She knocked on the closed door and swiftly entered before a response could come.
Startled at the boldness of someone entering before being invited, Kelsey sported the briefest of scowls before she realised who it was at her door. "Ripley!" she cried, standing from her seat and hurrying over to the tall, fair-haired prince. Not caring that her ladies-in-waiting were watching on, she unashamedly wrapped herself around Ripley, feeling his strong arms holding her in place. "Oh, how I have missed you!" she mumbled, kissing his face in pleasure.
Ripley managed to regain her sense and looked over her wife's shoulder. "Leave us," she directed at the waiting woman, starting to walk towards Kelsey's bedchamber. "I have missed you Kelsey," she murmured, burying her nose in the side of the strawberry-blonde's neck and inhaling her heavenly scent. "I have thought only of you, even when I should be concentrating on other things!" She laid her precious cargo down on the feather-filled bed and quickly covered the smaller woman's body with her own, eager to rejoin with her.
Kelsey panted and clenched at Ripley's shirt as the prince swiftly lifted her skirt and slip and inserted himself within her heated depths. She wasn't surprised she was ready for him, eagerly pulling him to her as he had his way.
Their joining was over quickly and they lay side by side, panting for breath and revelling in being back together. Kelsey settled on her side, snuggled up to her husband's side, her head on his strong shoulder, a soft hand on his stomach. Ripley had her eyes closed, trying to think of anything sweeter in life than being so close to Kelsey.
"May I be so bold as to enquire if you are mine for the rest of the day, husband?" Kelsey asked softly.
Ripley smiled and turned her head to kiss silky soft hair. "I must briefly go and speak with my father regarding what I found out, but once that business is done, I am all yours for however long you wish my presence, my love."
Lifting herself, Kelsey grinned as she looked down upon Ripley's handsome face. "I wish for your presence for eternity, dear heart. We have much to catch up on." She kissed his soft lips.
Wrapping her arms around Kelsey as the strawberry-blonde settled herself on top of her muscular frame; Ripley returned the kiss and smiled. "Oh, really, milady? And what, pray tell, is it we have to catch up on?"
"Our walks together, our picnics..."
"Our lovemaking?" Ripley asked, trailing hot, wet kisses down Kelsey's neck, earning a groan of pleasure from her wife.
"That too, I suppose."
"You suppose!" Ripley exclaimed in mock horror, fingers tickling the princess' sides and making her laugh and groan in need all at the same time. "I am a marvellous lover, how could you have not missed me in your bed?" She rolled them over, now hovering above Kelsey.
"I...missed your presence in my bed greatly, my husband," Kelsey admitted softly, brushing a gentle hand through his blonde locks. "Now, I insist you go and conclude your business with your father, so that we might...continue this...reunion."
Grinning, Ripley swiftly stood up and saluted her. "As you wish, milady," she said, making Kelsey giggle. "I shall be back before you know I am gone." With one last kiss, Ripley left Kelsey's chambers and headed for the King's office, whistling a lively tune.
* * * * *
Entering Edward's office without knocking, she grinned brightly. "I have returned, father, and heard that you wished to see me?"
Scowling at his daughter, Edward looked from Ripley to Chesney, nodding towards the door, silently telling the man to leave them. "Nice of you to fit me into your schedule, Ripley!" he growled.
"I had to see my wife, father. After many months away from her...well, I'm sure you understand."
Irked that the peasant was a higher priority to Ripley than himself, Edward stood. "I have good news for you, Ripley. Your...wife is with child."
Ripley felt her heart plummet to her stomach. "Wha-...what?" She snorted in amusement. "How can that be, father? You know we cannot conceive. You are mistaken."
"No, boy, I'm not. She is carrying your heir. Alden himself told me so."
Hurt and anger conflicting within, Ripley clenched her fists. "Then he is wrong," she said in a low, dangerous tone. "My wife loves me; she wouldn't take another to her bed."
Edward smiled knowingly.
Seeing the smug smile upon her father's face, Ripley's breath caught in her chest. "What have you done?" she gasped, tears filling her eyes, her chest aching.
"I took matters into my own hands for you, Ripley. There had to be an heir and now there will be one."
Without thought, Ripley launched herself at the King, a cry of anger, hurt and pain roaring from deep within her. She blinked in surprise as she found herself on her backside, seated on the floor. With tears trailing down her cheeks, she glared up at Edward. "What did you do?"
"Don't be so foolish, Ripley," Edward replied, his tone indicating his annoyance. "Your wife is with child," he said, meeting Ripley's watery blue eyes. "You must accept the child and raise it as your own," he said, his voice emotionless. "Tonight at the banquet, in front of everyone, you will announce the pregnancy and welcome it, like a proud father."
Ripley stood and angrily wiped away her tears. "Who? Who did the deed, father? Tell me now and I will make his death swift and painless!"
"Did you hear what I said, boy!" Edward growled in impatience. "You will accept this child as your heir. It matters not who planted the seed!"
"'Tis all so simple to you, isn't it?" She snapped, heart broken from the news. "Do you have any idea how this feels, father? Do you know how this will torture me? You had some...heathen...attack my wife!" She calmed suddenly, blue eyes on the imposing King. Or did he? Did Kelsey perhaps invite this...man, to her bed? She shook her head. No, Kelsey is the sweetest of creatures; she would never betray our marriage like that! "You had my wife attacked just so you could continue the damn line!" She started pacing, a burning rage coursing through her entire body. "Have you stopped to think what will happen if I look upon it once it is born and resent it? What if I can't stand the very sight of it? This...bastard, who is nothing at all to me!"
"You will calm down, Ripley, then you will go back to your wife and the pair of you will go down to see Alden on my request. He will tell you both the news," Edward said calmly, grey eyes expressionless. "Then tonight, you, the happy couple, will share your news and the Kingdom will celebrate the joyous news. You will go on as a happy couple, you will care for your pregnant wife as a doting husband would, and when the babe is born you will celebrate its arrival, as a true father would."
Ripley spun on her heels and stormed out of the office, unable to stand the sight of the man she had always called father. No more! That...that man, is nothing to me now! She stalked through the castle, heading downstairs instead of back to Kelsey's chambers, her destination Alden's house, needing to hear it from him, out of his mouth, the professional. This time, her progression through the castle wasn't joyful, she wasn't light of heart. She ignored all those around her, focused on what lay ahead. It cannot be true, surely? Fa-...the King wouldn't stoop so low as to have an innocent girl set upon by some heathen, just to attain an heir! Or...would he? He was adamant I marry. Without awareness of actually getting there, Ripley suddenly found herself at the doctor's house. She pounded frantically on his front door, pounding again and again on the wood when he didn't respond right away.
Alden flung the door open in fright, fearful that an attack was imminent on the castle. Grey eyebrows drew together as he found the distraught Prince on his doorstep. "Your Highness? What is it? What's wrong?"
"Is it true?"
"Is what true?"
"My wife...is she...tell me now, old man, the truth! Or I swear I shall have you thrown into a cell for the rest of your natural life!"
Light green eyes widened at the prince's outburst. Understanding now what was going on, the doctor took hold of one of Ripley's arms and led her into the dimly lit house, away from prying ears and eyes. "Yes, Your Highness. Kelsey is with child."
Hearing the startling truth, Ripley slumped down into the nearest chair. "How...how can this be?" she whispered in a pained breath. Devastated eyes lifted to the doctor. "I don't...how could..." Her head fell forward into her hands.
"The young lady came to me a couple of morns ago complaining of sickness and fatigue, Your Highness," Alden said softly, confused by the prince's reaction to the news the King had told him had been planned. "I...I examined her thoroughly and asked her some questions and came to the conclusion she was expecting. Knowing the truth about you, Ripley, I kept quiet, telling her 'twas probably just a passing bug and..."
"Kelsey doesn't know?" Ripley asked, looking up. "You didn't tell her!"
"I...I thought it best to speak with your father first," Alden explained. "What with knowing the truth of your...situation."
Sighing heavily, Ripley sat back in the chair, eyes on the uneasy doctor. "I see. And what did the King have to say?" she asked bitterly.
"Well, he...he said it had been arranged so that you could have an heir."
Resigned to the horrid truth of what her father had done, Ripley stood, feeling completely numb. "Thank you for telling me the truth, Alden. I am sorry for yelling at you, I had no right. I must go and tell my...tell Kelsey that she is to be a mother." Without another word, Ripley left the doctor's home.
* * * * *
Kelsey paced her receiving room in front of her sister and her new husband, who both watched in amusement from their shared chair. Lindsey seated snugly upon Hudson's lap, the soldier's arms around her pooched waist. "Sister," Lindsey giggled. "You are going to wear away the floor!"
Kelsey turned to face her sibling. "What could be taking him so long?"
"There are probably many things to discuss," Hudson said helpfully. "Like the welfare of the men, the need for supplies, and other such things."
Kelsey frowned. "Hudson, you are a knight now, can't you march down there and insist my husband is released from this meeting because I need him?"
Hudson chuckled. "Alas, no, milady. Sorry."
Sighing, the princess sat down in the chair opposite the newly-weds. "But I didn't even get to tell him you two are here, or your news," she pouted.
Lindsey released the lock of brunette hair she had been playing with at the back of Hudson's neck and frowned across at her sister. "But you said he came here to see you immediately." As Kelsey blushed crimson, a grin curled Lindsey's lips. "Oh, I see! You two were...otherwise engaged!"
"You can talk, sister!" Kelsey retorted. "I have barely seen you two since your arrival a couple of days ago!"
"Yes, but we are newly-weds," Lindsey replied, a blush of her own colouring her cheeks.
"You are with child!"
"'Tis fine, our doctor told us so," Lindsey replied, looking to Hudson for support and getting a nod from the brunette. "Dallin, our doctor, told us 'tis normal for a woman who is expecting to...suddenly have the urge to...you know."
"Remedy the fire burning in her loins," Hudson quoted Dallin's words, making both sisters blush furiously.
"I see," Kelsey said. "Well, then..." she cleared her throat, "Anyway, I...should probably go downstairs and check that all is ready for the banquet tonight." She stood, as did Lindsey and Hudson, the trio making their way over to the door. Kelsey gasped as she opened the door to find Ripley on the other side. "Oh! Ripley!" she breathed, a hand at her breast to still her beating her heart. "You startled me!"
"I'm...sorry." Cerulean eyes drifted over Kelsey's shoulder and landed on Lindsey and Hudson. "Hudson? Mrs. Meadows?"
"Mrs. Darnley," Lindsey said proudly.
Ripley frowned. "Excuse me?"
Smiling, Kelsey reached out for Ripley's hand and led him into the receiving room. "There is much for you to catch up on, husband," she said, as she led him over to a chair by the burning fire.
Ripley sat, blinking in surprise as Kelsey perched on her lap, Lindsey perching on Hudson's lap opposite. "What is going on? Where is Ackerley?"
"Ackerley is dead," Hudson said. "I killed him."
"You killed him!" Ripley exclaimed, looking from Hudson to Lindsey who nodded. I told her to merely keep a watch on the girl!
"He came at me with a knife, Ripley, I had to defend myself."
"I see," Ripley nodded slowly, a frown marring her brow. Well that at least takes care of one problem! But...Lindsey called herself Mrs. Darnley? Surely they haven't...married? "And uhm...the name change?" she asked, looking from Hudson to Lindsey and back again.
"I asked Lindsey to marry me when she learnt she was carrying my child," Hudson said, jaw jutting out in defiance. She knew Ripley couldn't say anything with Kelsey in the room, but the look in the prince's eyes told her there would be trouble later once they were alone.
"I see. Well, congratulations the pair of you. I hope you are both very happy together," Ripley smiled, despite silently wondering what the hell was going on. She of course knew the babe was Ackerley's, Hudson being a woman, but did Lindsey truly think the babe was Hudson's? Had the soldier not denied the child? It seems quite a bit has happened since I was last home.
"There is something else," Hudson said, grinning. "Your father had me knighted, declaring I had upheld the code of Chivalry."
This news did please Ripley greatly. "Congratulations, Hudson. I am very pleased and proud of you. You know I myself wanted to make you a knight, but could not do so without reason. This news pleases me greatly."
Hudson smiled and blushed at the prince's words. "Thank you, Your Highness."
"As much as I would like to stay here and celebrate your news with you, I must go and get ready for the Royal banquet this night," Ripley looked at Kelsey and smiled weakly, her stomach churning as she thought of the babe that grew within her wife. "My father just informed me," she said softly. "And I would love nothing more than a warm bath to soak away the dirt from my travels."
Lindsey and Hudson stood, as did Kelsey, the two women hugging each other then walking over to the door. Ripley slowly stood, sky-blue locked on to dark green eyes, Hudson searching the prince's eyes to try to discern how angry Ripley was at her. The prince smiled and offered her dearest friend her hand to shake. Finally hugging, the two made their way over to their woman, all smiling.
"We shall see you later at the banquet and share that drink," Ripley said, an arm going around Kelsey's waist.
"Excellent," Hudson nodded. "'Tis good to have you back, Ripley, and in one piece as well." With a final wave of goodbye, the newly-weds left Kelsey's chambers.
Ripley turned to face her wife, weakly returning the smile that was directed at her. "I...should go and have that bath."
Kelsey nodded. "Husband, may I enquire what took so long with your father? I know 'tis bold of me..."
"Not at all, Kelsey, I did tell you I would be right back. In truth, the meeting was over fairly quickly. I was...visiting Alden to confirm something."
"You are well, Ripley?" Kelsey asked in a panic-laced voice, a hand resting on the prince's arm.
"Yes, my wife, I am well. It...was concerning you."
Kelsey frowned. "Me?"
"Alden went to see my father a few days back after you had been to see him. It seems..." her jaw clenched, the words making her sick. "You are...with child, my wife."
Kelsey gasped, blue eyes wide, mouth agape as words left her. "I...I am..." She flung herself at Ripley, crying in happiness. "Oh, Ripley! Can you believe it! I am carrying your child!"
"Yes, it...would seem that way," Ripley mumbled. Who? Who did the deed? Who within these walls planted their seed within her and gave...me...an heir?
Puzzled by the prince's stunted reaction to the news, Kelsey frowned. "You...are not happy, Ripley?"
Cerulean eyes searched Kelsey's, not seeing any deviousness, or malice. She does not know my secret; she thinks this child is truly ours. I cannot...I cannot take away her happiness at this news just because I know the truth. "I am delighted, my wife. Truly. I just...I am weary after a long journey home and...need to wash and dress up to attend a banquet I would rather avoid."
Kelsey smiled softly. "I understand, my love. I too wish to be alone with you, rather than entertaining a room full of nobles! But alas, we must go and mingle."
"And tell them our news," Ripley said quietly. "My father wishes for us to share the news this eve with all the important people. I ask that you wear that light blue dress you own, along with..." she rifled through her pocket and removed a box. "This."
Kelsey took the box cautiously and slowly opened it, gasping aloud as she saw the beautiful necklace within. "Oh, Ripley!" she murmured, running a fingertip along the shining gold chain and down to the large emerald stone that lay at the heart of the necklace. "Husband, 'tis truly divine!"
"No, Kelsey, you are truly divine, that is merely an object." Ripley kissed the strawberry-blonde's head and left the room.
* * * * *
Ripley knocked for Kelsey half an hour after the banquet had started. It wouldn't do to have the young couple arriving on time. They had to make a grand entrance. The prince proudly walked her wife down to the grand hall, Kelsey holding onto her arm, the couple smiling and greeting those who were in the corridors of the castle. Outside the closed hall doors, the couple waited as the doorkeeper opened both heavy doors and loudly announced their arrival, all heads turning their way as conversation ceased. They did make a striking pair, no one could deny that. As they stepped into the room, smiling brightly, conversation resumed quickly and the minstrels started up playing again.
Ripley grabbed a goblet from a passing serving boy and drank deeply before leading her wife towards the high table where her father sat waiting.
The Marchioness of Nottingham stepped in front of the couple, smiling at Kelsey. "My dear, you look exquisite!" she said, hugging the princess. "And you," she said, turning to Ripley. "Are just as handsome as always. 'Tis good to see you home safe, Your Highness."
"Thank you, Lady Nottingham," Ripley replied. She had always liked the kind, older woman. The Lady Nottingham had been a friend of her mother's. "How is your husband, milady? I heard he had taken ill?"
The redhead nodded. "He is not here this eve sadly, though he wished to attend. I think 'tis the coming of winter, it always brings ills with it."
"Send him our regards and well wishes," Kelsey spoke up, a warm smile curling her lips.
"I will, thank you, Your Highness'."
The couple walked on, being stopped by the Laird from Scotland, his baby girl and his young wife; the man wanting to introduce his heir. Ripley smiled weakly as she looked down at the tiny bundle, her stomach churning as she thought of Kelsey's babe. Next to stop them with well wishes was the Duke of Cornwall and Lord Green. Walking away from the men, Ripley frowned and shook her head. "Strange."
"What's that, my love?" Kelsey asked softly, waving at Viscount Carter across the room.
"Those two hate each other, or at least, they used to."
"Perhaps they have put their differences aside for the eve, or made up?"
Ripley smiled. "Perhaps. Come, we must get to my father, he is shooting daggers at me for the delay."
The wood floor of the grand hall had been highly polished that afternoon on Kelsey's orders, and then layered with aromatic herbs to try to mask the smell of body odour and other unpleasant scents. It was warm, the two large fireplaces lit and burning fiercely to keep back the winter chill in the air. Kelsey had her workers hang blue banners with gold stitching, having always liked them due to them reminding her of her husband's eyes. The occupants were loud and boisterous, conversation almost deafening. With alcohol flowing freely, everyone was in good spirits.
Except one. The sandy-haired man stood in the shadows watching the fair-haired prince and his wife make their way through the hall with jealous eyes. Lifting his fourth mug of wine, Berwyn growled in hatred. The King had still not made him a noble, nor had he given the deserving man any land. Seeing his half brother back and looking incredibly happy, Berwyn wanted to shout out the act he had committed just to wipe the smug look off Ripley's face. Grey eyes trailed around the hall, seeing the Duke of Cornwall and Lord Green standing together having a heated conversation. Across the room, also looking displeased, was the Earl of Wessex. Perhaps 'tis time to disrupt their peaceful lives, Berwyn thought, sneering. We shall bring war to the lands, death and misery. Then we shall see how much the people love their King and his damn son! Slinking back deeper into the shadows, Berwyn covertly made his way towards Goodwyn.
"Finally," Edward growled in Ripley's ear as she sat down next to him. "I was beginning to think you were purposely trying to avoid this glorious moment."
"If only I could," Ripley muttered.
"What?" Edward's grey eyes turned sharply to the prince.
"I said as if I would." Reluctantly, she waved a hand at the vast crowd. "Shall we get this over with so everyone can get on with the celebration?"
Edward frowned at his daughter. "What is wrong with you, boy? This should be the happiest moment of your life."
Not wanting an argument, Ripley smiled weakly. "I am tired, father. With months away and all that travelling, I just want to be in bed."
Edward stood, growling his displeasure at Ripley's behaviour. "My noble Lords, Ladies, friends," he called out loudly, getting everybody's attention. "We are here to celebrate the safe return of my son." A round of applause echoed around the grand hall, as the guests clapped their approval. "But, there is more to tell you this eve," Edward said, smiling. "Ripley, stand and share your news with your people."
Holding on to Kelsey's hand, Ripley stood, pulling Kelsey up with her. The blonde smiled at her wife, then out at the crowd. "This eve I discovered something glorious and I wish to share it with you, my father's loyal subjects, and one day, hopefully, my loyal subjects."
The guests laughed, even as they looked from the happy couple to the grinning King, wondering what was going on.
"My wife and I are...expecting our first child," Ripley said, unable to say any more as their was thunderous applause and cheers all around. Nodding her head in thanks, Ripley sat back down and drank heavily from her goblet.
For the rest of the evening, the parents to be were approached by every one of the guests and politely took their words of congratulations and well wishes. Men winked at Ripley and hoped he had a healthy, strong, baby boy, who had the good looks of his father. The women fussed over Kelsey, wanting to share their own pregnancy stories. After seeing and thanking every guest, Ripley stood, ready to excuse herself.
"Husband? Are you well?" Kelsey asked, a hand on Ripley's arm.
"I am weary, my love. I think it is time I retired for the night."
Kelsey started to stand. "I shall leave with you then."
"You can stay if you wish, milady. I am sure many of these women have more stories to share with you."
Softly kissing the prince's cheek, Kelsey could see the weariness on Ripley's face and her heart ached for him. "My attention is needed elsewhere, dear heart." She leaned closer. "And to be honest, if I have to hear one more story about the pains of labour, I shall scream!"
"Very well," Ripley smiled. She turned her attention to her father, who was in conversation with Countess Jones. "Father, if you will excuse my wife and I, we are retiring for the night."
Grey eyes turned from the voracious Countess and looked up at Ripley. "Yes, you look like you will fall asleep standing, Ripley. Good night the pair of you and congratulations on your joyous news."
Smiling tightly, Ripley bowed her head. Taking Kelsey's hand, she led her across the great hall, biting back sharp comments as they were stopped again and again. Finally, Kelsey took pity on her and graciously excused them for the evening, leading her husband out of the hall and towards the stairs.
Out in the cool corridor, Kelsey shivered at the sudden cold, her bare arms prickled with goose-bumps. "May I request your company in my chambers this night, my husband?" she asked flirtatiously.
Just wanting to be alone, tired, hurt, and angry at news of a child to be raised as her own, Ripley shook her head. "Alas no, milady. I am just too tired and wish to be alone so that I can have a peaceful night's slumber."
"You can have a peaceful night with me, Ripley. I shall watch over you as you..."
"I said no, Kelsey!" Ripley snapped, whipping her hand away from her wife's. She sighed heavily as she looked away. "I...am sorry." She looked back at Kelsey, meeting fearful blue eyes. "I just need to rest, my love. Tomorrow I am all yours, I promise."
With a nod of understanding, Kelsey licked her suddenly dry lips. "Then I shall wish you a good night, husband." She got up on her tiptoes and kissed his chin before hurrying away, his show of a temper scaring her more than she cared to admit.
"Goodnight, Kelsey," Ripley whispered to the air, heart heavy for the first time in a long time.
* * * * *
Unable to sleep despite being exhausted, Ripley sat in front of her raging fireplace, the flickering flames holding her attention as hateful thoughts and unanswered questions plagued her. All she could think about was the faceless man who had taken her wife, her sweet, innocent Kelsey. He had touched her, plundered her, leaving behind his seed that created a new life. How many times did he...? What did he do? Was he rough and bruising with her? Forcing himself on her and in her? Or was he soft and tender? Did he make her whimper and sigh for more? Was he a rogue or a gentleman? Ripley growled and stood from her seat, beginning to pace angrily. Did she invite him into her bed? Are they lovers behind my back? Who is he, a noble or common man? The prince marched over to her desk and swept the contents off with one swipe of her hand. Breathing heavily, not knowing the answers, Ripley returned to her seat and picked up her goblet, before sitting down heavily.
She drank half her wine before setting the goblet aside, her fists clenching as her rampaging thoughts took over again, taunting her, torturing her. Did he hurt her? My soft, silky smooth wife, bruised by is roughness. Or...did Kelsey enjoy it? Was she scared and afraid? Did she pray for me to come to her rescue? Or did she beg for his touch? His love? His body upon hers? Wearily she stood, her eyes heavy after a long journey and too much wine. She made her way through to her bedchamber, her walnut veneered four-poster bed calling her name.
Will I be able to accept this child as my own? she wondered as she started to undress. I know I have to...at least publicly. She sighed heavily, deeply troubled by the events that had taken place while she was away, and by what lay ahead. The child, though to her a bastard, was in the eyes of the public, an heir, her heir. Slipping her sleeping gown over her head, Ripley slid into the cold bed, her soft feather-filled mattress making her sigh in relief after months sleeping on a cot in a tent.
She hated her father for what he had ordered. She hated that she could never get Kelsey pregnant. She hated not knowing who the real father was. As her brain conjured up an image of Kelsey, Ripley smiled lovingly. I do love her though, and this is no fault of hers, I am sure. We shall get through this together.