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 Four

At day break, one of the guards outside trumpeted the start of a new day. The servants had been up half an hour before, getting fires lit in the kitchen and the great hall, ready for those who wanted breakfast. All the floors were swept and cleared of debris, the great hall especially, getting a good going over.

Breakfast was a small meal of warm bread and cheeses, a feast being served at noon. The men talked loudly about the hunt they had gone on the previous afternoon, bragging of their kills and teasing each other about missed opportunities. Without Ackerley hovering over her, Lindsey chatted freely with whomever she pleased, proving to those around her that she was an intelligent and witty young woman. Once everyone was finished eating, they all headed over to the chapel for morning mass.

Everyone went their separate ways after the service, and Kelsey decided on taking a leisurely walk around the castle grounds, wanting to see some of the beauty she knew was out there. With Ackerley still in bed, sleeping off the previous night's alcohol, Lindsey decided to join her sister.

Outside, the day was warm, the sun sitting in a cloudless blue sky. The sisters walked away from the main castle, watching those who went about their business and smiling in greeting when they were acknowledged. They took a path that led them across a perfectly manicured lush green lawn, the castle hayward nearby tending to the hedges that lined the lawn.

"Isn't it a glorious day?" Lindsey exclaimed, looking up at the blue sky, feeling light and free.

Kelsey smiled. "Yes it is. Welcome back the Lindsey I know and love!" She hated how her sister was around Ackerley, hated the big man for what he had done to her sister. For now, she had back the old Lindsey and was going to relish her company.

"So, what do you think of His Royal Highness?" Lindsey asked, looping her arm through her sibling's.

"He is...very handsome and...charming," Kelsey replied after some thought.

"He is," Lindsey agreed dreamily. "Ackerley hates him," she whispered, though they were alone. "I think that's because the prince shows him no respect."

Kelsey looked in surprise at her twin. "What happened to the Lindsey who thinks the sun shines out of the all-knowing Ackerley's arse?"

"Ackerley acted like an ass last night and today is paying the price. I'm not deaf, Kelsey, I heard the nobles and knights muttering about how pompous my husband is. And after his embarrassing boasting at the dinner table, I couldn't agree more. But," Lindsey grinned. "Because of his foolishness, I now get to enjoy this beautiful day!" She pointed ahead to a gathered crowd. "Oh, look."

A small gathering of soldiers were sparring with each other out in the open field ahead, the clash of swords loud and seeming to echo off the surrounding trees, the grunts of the fighting men heard as well as the encouraging cries from those watching. The sisters walked to the edge of the watching crowd and paused to watch the men.

Kelsey felt her breath catch as she saw Ripley was one of the men fighting. She marvelled at the prince's skill and obvious strength. He was wearing no armour, merely a sleeveless vest, the muscles in his arms rippling with each graceful move. Judging from the slight sheen of sweat on his skin, Kelsey guessed he had been fighting for a while. She watched wide-eyed as Ripley and his opponent circled each other warily, taking careful steps as they grinned and taunted each other. They parried and swiped, dancing with ease until, with lightning speed, the prince drove his opponent to his knees, Ripley's sword at the kneeling man's throat. Kelsey smiled and felt oddly satisfied that Ripley had won. She heard the kneeling man grumbling in defeat as Ripley kicked aside the man's sword.

The gathered crowd of men and boys clapped and cheered their approval as Ripley lowered his sword and helped the defeated man up.

Ripley had grown up to be not only handsome and intelligent, but strong and brave as well. She had started learning to sword fight at an early age, her father insisting. She had gradually earned the respect and devotion from the soldiers she led, often fighting alongside them in battle. The prince was now known as a fierce soldier and a highly capable leader. The soldiers were all willing to follow Ripley into battle without question.

Spotting the two sisters, Ripley smiled and handed her sword to her squire, a boy no older than fifteen who was assigned to her to take care of her weapons and, when required, her horse. The boy, Robinson, was himself in training to become a knight. The prince approached the two sisters. "Good morn, ladies. 'Tis a beautiful day, is it not?"

"It is indeed, Your Highness," Lindsey replied, smiling warmly. She elbowed Kelsey subtly when her sister gave no response.

"You are very good," Kelsey said, changing the subject completely.

Ripley found herself blushing. "Thank you, milady. 'Tis years of practice that have paid off." She looked around at the dispersing crowd, willing her cheeks to cool. "Are you enjoying your day so far?"

"The castle grounds are truly beautiful, Your Highness" Kelsey replied. "So much work must go into keeping them looking so well tended."

Ripley nodded. "Indeed. My father has a number of people who work daily on the grounds. 'Tis hard work, but they do a very good job." She tilted her head in thought. "Would you perhaps like a guided tour? There are some very beautiful spots hidden away."

The sisters looked a little reluctant; though Lindsey was married and could play the part of chaperone, they didn't really know the prince.

"Hudson, come here would you," Ripley called out to her friend. "Do you have any immediate plans?" she asked, once the brunette approached and finished bowing in respect.

"No, Your Highness. Is there something I can do for you?"

"I have offered to give these two beautiful ladies a tour of the castle grounds," Ripley explained. "But I think they are slightly apprehensive of being alone with me."

Dark green eyes left Ripley to look upon the two young women. "With all due respect, Your Highness, will you be bathing before we go?" Hudson asked with a hint of a smile.

The two sisters gasped, then stifled giggles at such a bold comment.

"Are you suggesting I smell, Hudson?" Ripley asked, a blonde eyebrow lifted in question.

"Rank, Your Highness," the soldier replied, making the two sisters laugh aloud.

Ripley couldn't help but laugh. "Very well. I shall return to the castle to bathe, as will you, Hudson. I shall have the cook prepare us a picnic for our walk, so we won't miss out on the midday meal. How does that sound?" Cerulean eyes looked to Kelsey, seeking her approval.

Kelsey smiled, even as she felt her cheeks heat up. "Quite agreeable, Your Highness," she replied softly.

"Excellent," Ripley grinned. "Shall we?" she asked, offering her arm to Kelsey.

* * * * *

Back at the castle, the group split up to go their separate ways for a short while. Kelsey and Lindsey went in search of their parents to tell them of the plans. Hudson headed for the servant quarters she called home, and Ripley sought out the cook to request some food be prepared, while a couple of ewerers hurried to heat some water for a bath.

After a brief but purposeful bath, Ripley changed into brown leather trousers and a white shirt. Her shoulder-length blonde hair was left to hang loose, as was the style for men. Ready, she went in search of the sisters and Hudson.

"Prince Ripley," Chesney called out as the blonde marched along a corridor. "Your father would like a word."

Rolling her eyes, Ripley stopped and turned to look at the steward. "Do you know what about?"

"No, Your Highness."

"Can it not wait? I have...plans." Seeing the look in the long serving steward's eyes, Ripley sighed and dutifully followed after the man as he turned and headed for the King's office.

* * * * *

King Edward was seated behind his oak desk, the office candle-lit and a fire burning. His bastard son, Berwyn Townsend, was seated opposite him, sipping from a jewelled mug.

After the death of his first two sons, the Queen had locked herself away in her chambers in grief. The King, suffering himself, had sought comfort elsewhere and had unwittingly fathered a son with a local soap maker. The King had never publicly acknowledged Berwyn as his, but once the boy was old enough, Edward had enlisted him as a squire with the best knight serving at the castle, hoping he would go on to become a knight to the Kingdom. Edward had also made sure that the soap maker lived a comfortable life.

"One day soon, Berwyn, you will be knighted and given men of your own to lead. As well as having the title of Sir before your name, I shall reward you with some land to call your own."

"That is...most kind of you, Your Highness."

"As a knight you will then of course have the ear of my son. I think the pair of you working together would be a dominating presence, feared by all who go against us."

Ripley walked into her father's office and scowled as her eyes landed on Berwyn. For reasons she didn't know, she disliked the man intensely, finding him to be false.

"Ahh, my son," Edward smiled. "Thank you, Berwyn. That will be all."

Ripley saw the flash of annoyance on the sandy-haired man's face before he smiled politely and rose from his seat. There is something about him that I just don't trust.

Berwyn was a tall man, much like the King, and big and strong as well. He looked Ripley in the eye, his grey eyes cold and hard. "Ripley," he greeted, bowing his head slightly.

"I have a title, I suggest you use it," Ripley growled.

Berwyn smirked. "Forgive me, must be the wine." He bowed. "Your Highness," he said snidely.

Edward watched the man leave before turning his amused look on his daughter. "Why do you dislike him so, Ripley? He is of your blood."

"Half my blood, father." Ripley sat down in the chair Berwyn had vacated. "And there is something about him that is not right. His eyes are cold and hard and he is false. It is a gut instinct not to trust him, and my instincts have never let me down so far."

"Once he becomes a knight he will be a great help to your soldiers, Ripley."

"If he ever becomes a knight, I want him nowhere near me or my men, father. Berwyn is your responsibility. He is here purely through your guilt."

"That may be," Edward sighed. "But nonetheless, he has proven himself..."

"I do not care," Ripley interrupted. "I won't have someone I don't trust near me, supposedly watching my back."

The King sighed, knowing he wouldn't be able to change his stubborn child's mind. "I was informed that you are going out with Miss. Gardiner," he said, changing the subject. "With a chaperone I hope?"

Damn castle gossips! "I offered to give Miss. Gardiner and Mrs. Meadows a tour of the grounds, then 'twas decided that Hudson would join us and we would take along a picnic."

Edward frowned. "Hudson is not married."

"But Mrs. Meadows is," Ripley retorted. "I asked Hudson because the two girls seemed cautious about coming with me alone. I suppose they thought if I was not a gentleman, they wouldn't be able to fight me off!" She laughed at the absurdity of it. "If it is the two sisters' morals you have doubts over, it is you who decided on Kelsey for me."

Edward blinked, then his lips slowly curled up as he smiled. "So, you are happy with my choice then?"

"Whether I am happy or not doesn't come into it," Ripley snapped. "I would be happy not being forced into marriage!"

"We have talked about this," Edward replied in a bored tone. "Go on now, go and try to build some sort of relationship with the girl." The King watched his daughter stalk out of the office, a frown of worry on his brow. She is not as under my thumb as I thought, he worried. Perhaps I should take steps in order to control her a little more.

* * * * *

Meeting up with the two sisters and Hudson, who had been patiently awaiting her arrival, Ripley apologised for her tardiness and blamed royal duties.

Outside, Ripley and Kelsey took the lead, the pair walking side by side. Lindsey and Hudson, who carried the basket of food, walked a respectable pace or two behind, talking quietly while keeping an eye on the couple ahead.

"Tell me of your interests, milady," Ripley asked, as they strolled slowly.

Kelsey blinked in surprise at the request and glanced at the prince to see if he was teasing. "You...wish to know of my thoughts?" she asked in surprise.

"Yes, milady," Ripley smiled charmingly. "I wish to know all about you." And it was true, Ripley found that she was genuinely curious about the young, strawberry-blonde.

"And...I you, Your Highness," Kelsey replied shyly.

"As you wish, milady."

"Your Highness, may I ask why you keep bestowing that title upon me? I am not of noble birth, as you surely know, nor am I anyone of importance."

Ripley stopped walking and turned to face the beautiful woman, her face serious. "You are of importance to me," she said quietly. "I care not if you are of noble birth, or come from some important social background. I have seen signs of intelligence and you have been nothing but polite and gracious since we met. Those are worthy attributes and make you worthy of having the title milady." Ripley grinned, breaking the seriousness of the moment. "Unless...it bothers you?"

"No, it...is quite nice." Kelsey blushed. "Thank you for thinking so highly of me, Your Highness."

"You are quite welcome. Now, tell me of your interests, before I have you thrown in the dungeon." Ripley offered her arm.

Kelsey laughed and took the offered arm as they started walking again. "Well, I enjoy reading a lot," she confessed. "I like nothing more than to tuck myself away with a book and get lost in the adventure."

Ripley smiled. "I know what you mean," she agreed. "When I find myself with some free time, which is not very often, I do the same."

Kelsey smiled, pleased that they had something else in common. "I uhm...I like to learn new things also."

"I was right," Ripley grinned. "Not only beautiful, but intelligent too."

Kelsey ducked her head as her cheeks burned crimson.

Leaning closer to the pretty young woman, the prince frowned as Hudson cleared her throat from behind them, to remind Ripley of respectable boundaries. Ripley glanced back to acknowledge the warning. "I uhm...I wanted to enquire about...your sister's black eye," Ripley said in a low tone. "Did it perhaps have anything to do with Ackerley?"

Kelsey glanced back at the pair walking behind before turning back to meet the prince's curious cerulean eyes. She gave a short nod, then looked ahead, trying to hide her emotions on the matter. "Forgive me for saying so, Your Highness, but last night...I got the impression you dislike him as much as I do."

Ripley laughed heartily. "I like your delicate wording there, milady. And yes, I do...dislike him. Ackerley's father supplied the castle with fine meat from his animals, and when Ackerley took over and extended the business and produced better meat, my father extended his lands. Alas, it all went to his head and now he sees himself of great importance." Ripley offered Kelsey a small smile. "He should count himself lucky he wasn't thrown in a cell last night, he really annoyed my father."

"His boasting?"

"Well, there was that," Ripley chuckled. "But the demanding to know when he was to be made a Lord was the real issue." Ripley led Kelsey out of manicured gardens, following a dirt path that she knew led down to the lake. She wondered if the sisters had ever seen swans before. "Tell me, Kelsey, if you were ruler of these lands, what changes would you make?"

"I would cut the cost of wood, Your Highness. People going without freeze during the bitter winter months and I don't think 'tis right."

"Why do they go without? Surely they should make sure they have wood?"

"With all due respect, Your Highness, but if you had to choose between food for the winter months or wood, which would you choose?"

Ripley looked at the young girl. "I...didn't know people made such sacrifices."

"I don't know about all families, but at my home, to save on wood for the fireplace, my sister and I used to share a bed for warmth. We go without a bath, or when there is enough wood to heat a little water, we share the same water."

"I see. So, the price of wood should be lowered. What other changes would you like to see?"

Kelsey looked curiously at Ripley, wondering if this was all some sort of test. "Well...I think your..." she trailed off, not sure she wanted to continue.

"Go on, please."

"I think the King rules with an iron fist."

"You don't think this is a good thing?" Ripley questioned.

Kelsey shook her head. "He should think more about his people. The luxuries I have seen since I arrived here! I don't think he really knows how we all struggle through day to day life."

Ripley smiled kindly. "I completely agree with you, milady. And when the time comes, I plan to rule differently." Perhaps you shall be by my side? "What is your opinion on us being betrothed?" she asked curiously, knowing that, she herself, thought it odd her father had opted for a common girl.

"I...I can't quite believe I have been considered, Your Highness," Kelsey admitted. "Why you would want a common girl, I'm not sure. And, I am sure there are prettier girls than I out there."

Ripley stopped and turned Kelsey to face her. "Alas, dear lady, that is not true." She scowled at Hudson who cleared her throat again. "One moment, Hudson," she said to the soldier. "I assure you, I am being nothing but a gentleman." Ripley turned her attention back to Kelsey. "You are most beautiful, milady. And intelligent, witty and kind." Taking Kelsey's arm, she began walking again. "I grow so weary of noblemen's daughters. They have had everything handed to them on a plate and expect to have everything for the rest of their lives. They see me not as a potential loving husband, but as the man who can make them a princess. And the Princesses...well, they are worse. Except Princess Luella of Spain," she smiled. "She is as kind-hearted as you, and intelligent and funny. I consider her a great ally and friend."

"May I be so bold as to enquire why the two of you didn't marry, Your Highness?" Kelsey asked nervously, wondering if she was stepping out of line.

"We both wanted to marry for love," Ripley smiled. "I know we do not know each other, Kelsey, but I feel...I feel that you are so different from the girls I know, that perhaps we can be a powerful couple who will change the way these lands are ruled."

Kelsey looked in wonder at the prince and wondered if she really could make a difference. That is what everybody wishes for, isn't it? To be able to make a difference?

Ripley lifted an arm and pointed ahead. "Shall we sit here for lunch?" she asked softly, watching blue eyes widen as they took in the beauty that sat ahead of them.

"Oh! Yes, here would be...wonderful."

* * * * *

Ripley walked slowly across the neatly cut green grass of the gardens, smiling as she heard children squealing in delight as they partook in games of bowling, hoodman’s bluff, and badminton. She watched women laughing, flirting and talking, some playing backgammon, checkers or bowling. The King’s knights incorporated their training into recreation, performing gymnastics and running foot races, some sparring to impress nearby ladies. Other men played games of chess, challenged each other at archery, and enjoyed conversation with each other. Minstrels played lively music, smiling brightly as they walked around.

Ripley stopped to watch Vance, one of her men, bobbing for apples, joining in the laughter as he was beaten by a young squire, who blushed furiously at the prize of a kiss from a fair maiden. Walking on, she spotted Kelsey and her sister fanning themselves under the shade of a tree and walked over, a smile of greeting curling her lips. “Ladies,” she greeted softly. “Are you having fun?”

“Your Highness,” Kelsey smiled and curtsied in respect, followed by Lindsey. “We were just taking a break from the festivities. There is so much going on!”

Ripley nodded. “There is, and more to come, I’m sure.” The blonde looked at a beaming Lindsey. “Mrs. Meadows, I heard the unfortunate news that your husband was still in bed. I trust he is well?”

Seeing the teasing glint to the prince’s cerulean eyes, Lindsey grinned. “Nothing more than a sore head, Your Highness. Everything he deserves for his behaviour last night, if you’ll excuse me for saying so.”

Ripley nodded her head once, excusing the woman for speaking out. “Well, I hope you enjoy your day.”

“It has so far been the best day of my year, Your Highness.”

“Shall we being seeing you later, Your Highness?” Kelsey asked, getting Ripley’s attention. “One of the knights informed us there was to be a tournament for the knights, jousting and duelling and such.”

“Alas, I cannot partake in the jousting,” Ripley frowned. “As the only heir to the throne, my father banned me until I have a wife and an heir of my own. He fears I will be hurt taking part in a game and that is no way for a future king to die.”

“I’m sorry to hear that, I’m sure you would be a sight to behold.”

Ripley blushed. “Thank you, milady. Perhaps one day you’ll be witness to my partaking?”

“Perhaps.” Kelsey blushed herself.

“Uhm...I will be duelling though, there was no way my father could stop me, for ‘tis rumoured I am an accomplished soldier and fearsome on the battlefield. It wouldn’t do to not have me competing.”

“I look forward to watching.”

Pleased that the strawberry-blonde showed an interest, Ripley smiled. “Well, I shall leave you now and go and prepare myself,” she bowed politely. “Ladies.”

The sisters watched the prince retreat until they lost him in the crowds.

“Are you really going to go and watch him duelling?” Lindsey asked curiously.

“Yes, why not?” Kelsey looked at her sister.

Lindsey smiled. “No reason. I just...I thought you weren’t interested in marrying and having a family.”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“Well, it seems to me you are showing quite an interest in him.”

Kelsey frowned, annoyed by her sibling’s teasing. “Whether I wish to marry or not, ‘tis not my decision. The King has singled me out as a potential bride and father will be praying I am chosen. Woman are nothing more than property, you know that. Excuse me.” Kelsey walked away, annoyed at her sister, annoyed at herself, but most of all, annoyed at the times she lived in.

The jousting was fascinating to Kelsey. She had never seen a tournament before and watched in rapt attention as two knights, each atop a horse, faced each other armed with a lance and a shield. As they galloped towards each other, her eyes widened and she gasped aloud, until the loud thwack of one of the men hitting the other rang out and the large crowd cheered and clapped their approval. For unknown reasons, she was immensely glad Ripley wasn't partaking in this "game".

Ripley stopped next to Kelsey, eyes on the two battling men. "Do you mind if I join you, milady?"

Startled from what was in front of her, Kelsey smiled at the handsome, fair-haired prince. "Not at all, Your Highness." Ripley was dressed in silver armour, looking tall and imposing, but handsome nonetheless. They stood without talking, merely clapping when a hit was made. "May I ask when the battle is over?" Kelsey asked, not understanding the rules to the jousting.

"Each knight has three lances with which they have to hit their opponent's shield or helmet."

"Oh, I see. What do they win?"

Ripley smiled and pointed to the hastily erected stage where her father sat. "Do you see that redhead seated next to my father?"

Kelsey looked in the direction Ripley indicated. "Yes. That is Lady Anne, is it not?"

"That's right. Well, the two knights fighting are both in love with her and she has told them that the winner will not only receive a kiss from her, but her hand in marriage as well."

Kelsey blinked in shock. "That is done?"

"Yes." Ripley looked at the pretty girl beside her. "You don't agree?"

"I...well, no, not really. I know these times we live in women are merely property and marriages are set up as a part of business, but..." Kelsey shrugged. "I don't know...it doesn't seem right to me."

"I agree," Ripley smiled. "But that is the way sometimes."

"I think it is sad, but as you said, it is the done thing."

The jousting battle ended, the crowd clapping their appreciation.

"If you'll excuse me, I think I'm up."

Remembering a traditional custom, Kelsey reached out a hand, setting it on the prince's arm. "Your Highness, may I bestow upon you..." she trailed off, blushing at her forwardness. She cleared her throat in embarrassment. "My hanky."

Ripley smiled. "I would be honoured, milady." She lifted her sword, hilt first for Kelsey to tie the lacy hanky to. "Thank you, I hope it brings me good luck."

Kelsey smiled. "I doubt you need any luck, Your Highness. I saw you sparring earlier."

Ripley laughed. "Ah, my secret's out."

"Your Highness, you're up," a soldier called out.

Nodding her acknowledgement, Ripley turned back to Kelsey. "May I make a bold request?"

Kelsey frowned, but nodded and waited to hear the request.

"If I win this duel, perhaps you could bestow upon me a kiss?"

Kelsey blushed at the thought, but nodded, wanting to for reasons she couldn't explain.

Smiling brightly, Ripley lifted one of Kelsey's hands and gently pressed her lips to the backs of her fingers. "Then I shall do my very best, milady." Releasing the soft hand she held, Ripley turned and briskly walked out onto the field, getting a loud roar of approval.

Kelsey watched the sword fight with bated breath. On the one hand, she wanted Ripley to win, then on the other, she wasn't sure she should kiss him, for it would surely raise eyebrows and set tongues wagging. The two men fought tirelessly, parrying back and forth, the crowd cheering the prince on, until finally Ripley's opponent was on his knees, the fight given to Ripley.

All eyes were on the blonde as she made her way over to where Kelsey was standing. Ripley wiped a hand over her brow, wiping away the sweat that had gathered. "Milady," she greeted softly.

"Your Highness." With slight trepidation, Kelsey stood on her tip-toes and pressed her lips to Ripley's cheek. "Well fought, Your Highness. You were a worthy winner."

"No wonder you fought so hard!" Sir Harrington, Ripley's opponent called out. "With the promise of a kiss to fight for, I never stood a chance!" The crowd laughed, all in good spirits. "Where is my fair maiden?" Harrington continued woefully, making the crowd laugh at his antics.

Shaking her head, soft cerulean eyes met Kelsey's, Ripley smiling. "If you'll excuse me, milady, I shall go and get out of this heavy armour. Thank you for your support."

Kelsey bowed her head. "You are welcome, Your Highness."

"And the kiss," Ripley added, close to a pink ear, before marching off to change.

* * * * *

Lindsey walked slowly back to her chambers, a bright smile gracing her lips. I am sure Kelsey will soon be marrying the prince, she thought in delight. The picnic had been a pleasant affair, Ripley and Hudson proving to be great company. The pair were both witty and their teasing of each other very humorous to witness. Hudson was a true gentleman, she thought. He talked to me as though I have a brain and listened intently to my thoughts, like they mattered. I can't remember the last time Ackerley engaged me in conversation! She tried to think of a time when her husband had started a conversation with her, or a time when he had listened to her thoughts. Not one occasion came to mind.

Then the afternoon's festivities, everyone having such fun; she was glad Ackerley hadn't been up to joining in, for he surely would have ruined her good mood. Thoughts on her wonderful afternoon, she entered her chambers.

"Where have you been, woman?" Ackerley growled, startling Lindsey from her thoughts.

Blinking in surprise, Lindsey almost stumbled upon hearing her husband's anger-laced tone. "I...accompanied Prince Ripley and my sister on a picnic," she explained, not sure why she left out Hudson's presence. "The prince wished to get to know Kelsey better."

"Why didn't you come and get me?"

"You...were sleeping, husband. After all the hard work you do, I thought perhaps you could use the rest."

Ackerley stormed across the room and grasped her shoulders painfully hard, smiling nastily as she whimpered in pain. "I will decide whether or not I need rest, wife! Next time, you shall come and get me."

Lindsey nodded meekly.

"Anyone would think you wanted to be alone with him."

"But I am married to you, Ackerley! I am your wife, and the prince is to be betrothed to my sister!"

"I know that and you know that," Ackerley said, almost nicely. "But others will speculate and I won't have whispers about my wife being a whore going around! I am a very important businessman around these parts, Lindsey. It won't do my business any good if people think you are a traitorous whore. Understand?"

Face pale at people thinking something so untrue of her, Lindsey nodded dumbly.

"Now, I think I shall go in search of a drink. Why don't you call for a bath and...wash off the day's events." With that, Ackerley marched past a stunned Lindsey and out of their room.

* * * * *

Ripley sat opposite the King, each holding a jewelled mug filled to the brim with red wine. A fire burned fiercely in the fireplace, the room warmed nicely. Candles flickered and dimly lit the room enough for the pair to see each other. Ripley remained silent, despite the glances Edward kept shooting her way. She knew her father was dying to know how her time with Kelsey had gone and if the news on a possible wedding was good.

"So...how did your...picnic with Miss. Gardiner go?" Edward asked, in an almost uncaring way.

Ripley chuckled and lifted her mug to her lips to drink her wine, seeing the King scowling at her. "The food was excellent. I must remember to compliment Dawn the next time I see her."

"Ripley! You know what I meant!"

"My time with Kelsey was well spent," the fair-haired prince said honestly. "You have unwittingly chosen well, father. I find Miss. Gardiner...intriguing. She is, of course, beautiful; there is no questioning that. But she is intelligent, honest, kind and..." Ripley smiled and nodded, coming to a decision. "You get your wish, father. I will marry her."

"Excellent! I shall meet with my advisers as soon as possible and get plans moving along."

"You do realise that this will cause a great stir? You will be giving people who already oppose you more fire to fight with?"

Edward smiled. "I am the King, Ripley. I will rule my land any way I see fit. I know people oppose against some things, and soon, soon we will see who my true enemies are. We will see who comes out publicly and who remains in the shadows." He sipped from his wine, thinking over the names he already suspected would be against him. "But worry not about that, Ripley. You just concentrate on becoming a married man."

To be continued...