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 Six
With the wedding having been set for spring and fast approaching, King Edward called for Ripley, planning on educating the prince in something his own father had taught him. Something of great importance.
"You wanted to see me, father?" Ripley asked, entering the King's chambers.
"Yes, boy, I did," Edward smiled, though feeling slightly nervous. "Take a seat, son."
Ripley frowned upon being called son, the King knowing it irked her, but having grown used to it over the last twenty-one years, she let it go and sat down without fuss.
"Sex is like riding a horse, son," Edward started bluntly, once Ripley was seated comfortably. He stood up, not acknowledging his daughter's wide-eyed look of shock and embarrassment. He walked over to a small table that held a tall jug and two goblets. "Drink?"
Ripley nodded, needing something to calm her nerves. Dear Lord, please do not let him start lecturing me on lovemaking!
Edward smiled as he handed over a goblet filled with a deep red wine. Standing up straight, the King positioned his stance as though he was sitting astride a horse. "See?" he asked, getting Ripley's attention. "You start off slow and easy," he explained, thrusting his hips back and forth, "like when riding in a gentle trot."
A hand flew up to her head, fingers rubbing her creased brow, as Ripley squirmed in her seat. Dear Lord, kill me now!
"Then, as your desire and need grows," the King continued, "you work faster and harder, like a horse full out running," his hips thrusting faster. Edward finally stopped and turned to look at his crimson daughter to see if she understood.
"Right. Uhm...well," Ripley cleared her throat, hoping that was it. "Thank you, father, for...clearing that up."
Edward smiled, pleased that he could be of some help. "Well, I wanted you to be prepared for your wedding night, Ripley." He sat down with his own goblet of wine. "What with Kelsey being a virgin, it wouldn't do to have you both not knowing what to do!" He laughed raucously. Sipping at his drink to calm himself, a thoughtful look passed over his face. "I know this...union isn't something you want, Ripley. I have...forced a life on you and...it does sadden me and make me feel guilty, but...everything I have done has been for the good of the family line." Edward looked his daughter in the eye. "I hope you understand and perhaps...forgive me."
"I understand, father. I just...I don't understand this need for me to marry." Ripley watched as the King's jaw clenched. "'Tis not something I want, the church and many nobles oppose it, and yet you persist."
"There needs to be an heir, that's why, Ripley. Without a wife you cannot have an heir."
"I cannot have an heir with a wife, father!"
"One can be arranged!" Edward snapped. "The girl can take a lover, a child can be bought, a solution will be found. But without you having a wife, it wouldn't be plausible." They fell silent, glaring angrily at each other as they drank their wine. Their relationship had always been uneasy, sometimes strained. "Perhaps a visit with Alden will clear anything else up. He is a doctor after all," Edward finally said.
Ripley shot up out of her chair, seeing the chance to escape. "That is a good idea, father. I will be sure to find a moment for the doctor," she lied, having no intention of doing so. With a quick bow, she hurried out of the room, wondering how long her cheeks would stay crimson and how long the imagery of her father's thrusting hips would remain in her head.
* * * * *
Hudson doubled over in hysterics. "He...he...like a horse!" she choked out, tears of amusement streaming from her eyes.
"'Tis not funny, Hudson! I shall be scarred for life!" Ripley snapped.
Hudson laughed harder at that, the image of the great King thrusting his hips as he tried to explain to his 'son' how to love a woman. "Oh...Lord above! I...would've paid handsomely to have witnessed that!"
Ripley scowled and stormed ahead. She had bumped into Hudson in her haste to escape her father. Her worried friend, seeing the colour of her cheeks, had demanded an explanation. Ripley had led them outside, away from prying ears and quickly retold the horror she had been witness to, amusing Hudson to no end.
Hudson jogged to catch up with her irked friend. "Oh, come on, Ripley. If you were in my shoes, would you not be laughing just as hard?"
"Of course I would, but that's not the point!" Ripley smiled.
"You shouldn't be so embarrassed. He was only trying to help," Hudson said softly, sobering.
"I know, but...sometimes 'tis like he forgets I am really a girl," Ripley admitted in frustration.
"Why didn't you tell him you have had some experience?"
Blue eyes widened in alarm. "Are you mad! He would've asked questions I have no desire to answer."
"You are ashamed?" Hudson asked in a low, hurt tone.
Ripley shook her head and stepped closer to her dearest friend, a hand lifting to lie on a shoulder. "No. Never. Don't ever think that. I...I was thinking of you, protecting you."
Dark green eyes looked deeply into sky-blue and saw the honesty there. With one swift nod, Hudson turned and started walking again. "So, you are to see Alden?"
"Not if I can help it," Ripley mumbled.
"Ripley...you are doing the right thing, aren't you? Getting married, I mean."
The fair-haired prince sighed. "I have to get married, that we know. My father has lost all patience with me. Now, with the church and the nobles all opposed to this wedding, he wants me to go through with it and prove to them that he was right all along. He is the King and what he says goes, he shouldn't be questioned."
"But...what about you, Ripley?" Hudson asked sadly, hating the life her friend had to live almost as much as Ripley herself. "What about how you feel?"
"I...liked Kelsey. I enjoyed her company." Ripley smiled in memory of the young woman. "I have heard that sometimes harmonious, and even, loving relationships can occur between spouses. Whilst I don't expect my marriage to be very...loving, I will consider my marriage a success if Kelsey and I are at least friendly with each other."
Hudson smiled at her grinning friend. I hope things work out well for you, my friend. After all you have lived with, you deserve a little happiness. The soldier remembered back to when they had been younger, when she'd had a huge crush on the dashing prince.
"Why can't I learn how to sword fight?" Honey asked in a hurt tone.
"Because you are a girl," Ripley patiently replied.
"So are you!"
The prince looked around in a panic before grabbing her friend's arm and dragging the brunette somewhere more private. "Don't ever say that aloud again!" she growled harshly.
"I...I'm sorry," Honey stammered. "I'm just frustrated, Ripley."
Ripley placed her hands on her dearest friend's shoulders. "I know. 'Tis not fair, I know that. When we spar alone, you are just as good, if not better, than half the men. But you know what my father said."
Knowing she was never going to win the argument, despite wanting to spend more time in Ripley's company, Honey decided to move on to another topic. "Well, how about tomorrow we go off on horseback for a picnic, or perhaps a camp-out? You know where to, our spec-..." she trailed off upon seeing a pained look on her friend's face.
"I would love nothing more, Honey, but...some Lord is arriving along with his family. I am expected to play host to his daughter," Ripley explained. "I think father has hopes for us to become betrothed."
Honey swallowed hard, willing the tears she knew were in her eyes not to fall. "Oh. That's okay." She smiled weakly and started backing away. "I...I have to go. See you later."
"Honey, wait! Don't...don't you want to spar?"
The brunette shook her head. "Not right now." She turned around and hurried away, making sure she was far enough away and alone before letting the first tear fall. I love her! I love her despite the lie she is made to live and yet we can never be together, for I am not of noble blood! She sat down and sobbed out all her pain, until there was nothing left but numbness, her eyes red and puffy. Her heart aching with sudden clarity, she knew what she had to do.
Funny how things work out, Hudson thought. All those years ago, I would've given anything to be the one on Ripley's arm, but thought it could never be. Now, here she is, betrothed to a common girl because of King Edward! Sighing sadly, Hudson kept pace with Ripley as the prince continued to joke about how scarred she was from her father's little speech.
* * * * *
It wasn't until the eve of her wedding that Ripley got up the courage to go and see the family doctor. Her father had heard she hadn't been by and insisted she do so, going so far as to walk her over to the doctor's door.
"I shall wait here for you, Ripley," Edward said sternly. "I don't want you sneaking out in a minute or two."
Alden Latimer had worked for the Royal family all his career. The now grey-haired man had shared in the joys and the devastations, had tended to them when they were sick and helped in pregnancy and death. He was a trusted friend, and one of the very few who knew the truth about Ripley.
"What can I do for you, Your Highness?" Alden asked politely as he took a seat in front of his burning fire.
Ripley took a seat opposite the doctor, looking into kind, light green eyes. "Come, old man, you know me well enough to call me Ripley," she smiled.
Alden chuckled. "Very true. Well, Ripley, what troubles you? Worried and nervous about the wedding perhaps?"
"Yes to both," Ripley nodded. "The life I have lived as a man...I haven't minded until now. I know how my life would've been if I had led it as a woman. By now, I would have been married off and surely a mother to a number of children. I wouldn't have been allowed to learn how to sword fight or go off to battle, though capable. I would have to play a fool whenever a man was in my presence." She snorted in disgust. "I wouldn't have had the freedom I have had." She frowned and sighed heavily. "But now, my father wishes for me to marry. Poor innocent young Kelsey, whose life I shall be ruining!"
The doctor sighed, knowing this troubled the prince greatly. "Your father...has come to realise that if he hadn't found you a bride and insisted you marry, you wouldn't. Ever."
"But the whole point of marriage in his eyes is to produce an heir to our throne, which I cannot do anyway!" Ripley argued. "So why must I go through with this falsehood? Why can I not remain single and rule alone?"
Alden shook his head. "Marriage is not only about producing heirs, Ripley. As the King is your only family, he realises that once he is gone, you will be alone. I believe he wishes for you to have a companion." He smiled kindly. "As much as you don't like it, Ripley, this is your duty. It is something you must do and cannot get out of. If you refuse to marry this girl, you know he will only go out and find another. In the end, when you keep refusing, people will start to talk and whisper and doubt his leadership and question his inability to control you. There is already some whispering. You have been betrothed three times already! I have heard that some are betting on whether you will or won't go through with this or not."
A blonde eyebrow lifted. "Really? What are the odds?"
"Well..." Alden shook his head. "I nearly told you then, you bugger!" He joined Ripley in laughing. "There is also some talk of you being...a fairy," Alden said seriously.
Ripley laughed in tickled delight. "A fairy indeed! I like women as much as the next man."
Alden chuckled. "Well, yes."
The prince sighed, shoulders slumping in resignation.
Knowing he had talked Ripley around to the idea of marriage, Alden relaxed back in his seat. "Now, is that all that troubles you? Or are you worried of not feeling anything for the girl? Because if that is the case, worry not, love will come as the years pass by."
Ripley shook her head. "I have no worries about how I feel, Alden. I found Kelsey to be...truly amazing. I enjoyed her company immensely. She is intelligent, has a sense of humour, and doesn't have the snobbery of normal noble girls. She is...a precious jewel that I wouldn't have thought could exist in one of these small towns."
"Then...what is it that troubles you?"
"My father suggested I come and talk to you about...my...wedding night," Ripley blushed. "I...have some experience with uhm...a woman's body, but...I never used...." cerulean eyes flicked down to her trousers. "I never used the...phallus." Ripley puffed out her burning cheeks in embarrassment. "Father informed me that sex is like riding a horse. You start off slow and easy until your desire grows, and then you work your hips faster and harder until you..."
"No!" Alden exclaimed, wide-eyed. Dear Lord, there are times in my career when I wish I had become a blacksmith! Like now for instance! The small-built doctor stood up and picked up a small pot that had been hanging over the fire. "Would you like some warm cider?"
Sensing the doctor was flustered and needed time to compose himself, Ripley nodded and silently watched as Alden got them two cups and poured them each a cup of the warm drink. He returned to his seat opposite the prince and held out a cup for Ripley. "Thank you."
Alden nodded, distracted by thoughts of what to tell the young prince. After drinking a substantial amount of his cider, Alden exhaled a pent up breath and smiled kindly. "Do not be rough, Ripley. Kelsey is young and pure and she will be scared. You can hurt her, which I am sure you don't want to do, so be gentle."
Ripley nodded, a frown etched on her brow.
"She will be dressed in a proper dressing gown. So, all you need do is lay her on her back and raise the gown up enough so that her..." Alden cleared his throat, his cheeks reddening. "Her...womanhoodisvisible," he blurted out in one breath.
"Womanhood is...?"
"Visible, boy, visible." Alden finished his drink to steady his nerves. "Be sure to get her ready for you," he rushed on. "Use your fingers to...to stroke her...to stroke her womanhood, until you feel she is properly wet," the flustered doctor cleared his throat again. Why, oh why, couldn't Ripley have been a man? Surely then we wouldn't be having this conversation! "Then you climb atop her and guide your..." he waved a hand in the direction of Ripley's trousers. "Inside."
Ripley swallowed nervously and sipped at her drink. When she had reached marrying age, the doctor had provided her with what he called a phallus. Once strapped to her hips, the phallus provided a suitable male bump in her trousers, adding to her portrayal as a man. She had never had reason to use the device. That was about to change.
"There will be some resistance...that is to be expected the first time. You shall need to break through her maidenhead and this will cause her some discomfort. This cannot be avoided, I'm afraid. Remember to keep your movements slow and steady, perhaps let her get use to having you within before filling her completely." Alden smiled kindly. "Other than that, just do what feels right at the time."
Swallowing hard, Ripley nodded, feeling apprehensive at the thought of what was to come. Why did I have to be the only heir? Standing, she held out her hand to the doctor. "Thank you, Doctor Alden. I appreciate you sparing the time to...discuss this sensitive matter with me."
Edward entered the doctor's house suddenly, startling the two inside. "Did you tell her?" he asked the doctor. "She won't be embarrassed on the night, will she?"
Alden smiled, looking from the prince to the imposing King. "Your Highness, I am sure Ripley will do you proud."
* * * * *
Ripley stood in front of a long mirror, chewing on her bottom lip. Nervous eyes scanned from her new short haircut, down to the carefully tailored red jacket and smart black trousers she wore. She'd had her barber cut her shoulder-length blonde locks into a short, masculine style, tired of having her hair long and unruly, and was pleased with the result. Finally, cerulean eyes landed on the decorative sword that hung from her hip, highly polished and gleaming in the light. She looked every inch the soldier she was.
Maxwelle stood close at her side, hands smoothing down the jacket, as she beamed with pride at her creation, made for the Royal wedding. "You look so handsome, Your Highness! I would marry you meself if I were younger!"
Ripley smiled at the dear older woman. "'Tis thanks to you, Maxwelle. 'Tis your creation." The prince shifted a little, fighting the urge to readjust the bump at her groin. Why is it that today I am very conscious that I wear it? I barely notice any other time? Her eyes flicked down to the bulge and she swallowed nervously. Tonight she was expected to join her new bride in bed and make her a woman.
A knock on the closed chamber door startled the prince from her thoughts, a blush rising quickly to her cheeks.
"Your Highness, 'tis time," a male voice called through the door.
Looking at Maxwelle, Ripley grinned. "Wish me luck."
The old woman tut-tutted. "Such foolishness!" She smiled proudly at the young prince. "Go, get married and quickly, so that we can all celebrate."
Ripley laughed and turned to hug the woman. "I see now why everyone was so eager for me to marry! You all get the day off to get roaring drunk!" She kissed Maxwelle's cheek and hugged her a final time before turning to leave. Leaving the room, Ripley followed the soldier who was supposed to be there for her protection downstairs and out into the courtyard where a carriage was waiting to take her to the cathedral. Looking around the castle, she knew that when she returned she would be a married man and her life would again, be forever changed.
The horse-drawn carriage slowly made its way from the castle to Westminster Abbey. Comfortable to sit in with its red leather seats, Ripley looked out the window at the passing scenery. The carriage was, like everything belonging to the Royal family, elegant and exquisite. It was so heavy it had to be pulled by four horses. For the prince's wedding, the four golden-coloured mares had been washed, brushed and decorated. Ripley had barely noticed.
The cobbled streets were lined with people - men, women and children, young and old, all stood huddled together, fighting for space so they could see the passing prince. They cheered and called out their well-wishes as Ripley's carriage went past, not knowing that Ripley heard nothing as she lost herself in doubts.
I shouldn't be doing this, she thought for what seemed like the hundredth time. Dragging an innocent into this web of lies I call my life! Married to me, she will never have children. And she seems so gentle and kind, she would surely make a wonderful mother.
The carriage drew to a stop outside the large impressive Gothic-style, structure. Westminster Abbey was where all Royals had been married since it had been built. Her father had married her mother there.
Ripley looked to her right, up the grey stone steps to the pine doors that stood proudly open, waiting for her to make her entrance. Within, she knew her father was waiting, along with invited guests, like the Duke of Lancashire, King Ramiro of Spain and his daughter, the Marquess and Marchioness of Nottingham, and many more friends and enemies alike. Ripley knew the cathedral was packed full with nobles of all ranks, Royals and their families, and in one small corner, Kelsey's friends and family. All gathered there to see the biggest ceremony to occur in the last twenty odd years.
Once she composed herself and gathered her courage to actually go through with it, Ripley opened the carriage door and stepped down on to the street. To the loud cheers of her people, she walked regally up the stone steps, before stopping at the top to turn back and face the vast crowd. Smiling her most charming smile, knowing she looked quite dashing in her clothes, Ripley stuck up a hand and waved, the crowd roaring their approval.
Taking one last deep, calming breath, Ripley turned and made her way into the church, knowing that when she stepped back out, she would no longer have just herself to worry about, but a young wife as well.
* * * * *
Kelsey stared nervously out of the window of the beautiful carriage she was in, being pulled along by four magnificent white horses. She saw all the waving and cheering people lining the streets and was hit for the first time with the realisation of whom she was marrying. The Prince of England! The next in line to the throne! I shall be the Princess and in time the...Queen! Lord above, is this real? Or some elaborate dream?
Elden smiled proudly and reached out to squeeze his daughter's knee. "Do not worry too much, daughter. Prince Ripley seems a kind soul."
Seems is the key word! Kelsey thought, saying nothing as she smiled weakly.
"And look at all the people lining up to catch a glimpse of you! They all support you, Kelsey, you should be proud."
The carriage came to a stop outside the church and Elden took a deep shaky breath, smoothing down the silk vest he wore. I shall soon be related to Royalty! Me, a humble carpenter! "Are you ready, Kelsey Marie Gardiner?"
As I'll ever be! The strawberry-blonde smiled at the use of her full name, knowing it was the last time she would use her surname. Nodding that she was ready, she watched Elden get out of the carriage and took the hand he offered to help her down. She stepped down gracefully, fully aware of all the eyes on her.
Hearing the sheer volume of the crowd's cheers, their well wishes, their compliments on her dress, their support, Kelsey turned to look at those closest and instead of allowing her father to lead her up the steps, she released her hold on his arm and walked toward the crowd, smiling warmly. Reaching a mother and her fair-haired daughter, Kelsey crouched, despite her beautiful silk wedding dress, to the little girl's height. "Hello," she greeted softly, smiling as the girl hid her face in her mother's skirts. "What is your name?"
"Misty," the little girl replied shyly.
"My, 'tis a beautiful name." Kelsey smiled as the girl grinned. "I spotted you waving when I climbed down from the carriage and thought I would come over and say hello. My name is Kelsey."
"You are very pretty," Misty blushed. "These are for you," she said, thrusting a bunch of daisies at Kelsey.
"Thank you very much, Misty. They are lovely," Kelsey said as she lifted the bunch to her nose to smell them. "Well, I better go and get married now, or else His Royal Highness will be out here looking for me!" She pulled a funny face, making the little girl giggle. As she stood up, Misty's mother laid a hand on her arm, snatching it back just as quickly.
"Uhm...thank you for your kindness," she said in a low tone, bowing her head slightly.
"I am just one of the people," Kelsey said gently. "I shall not change just because I am marrying the prince." She chewed on her bottom lip as a thought came to her. "If you should ever need anything, come to the castle and ask for me. I shall do all that is in my power to help you in any way."
The woman's eyes widened."Th...thank you, Miss."
Kelsey smiled at those nearby as they called out their best wishes, and as she headed for the steps, she wondered if being the future Queen would be so bad after all. I can do so much good! she thought happily.
* * * * *
Ripley looked towards the open doors as the music announcing the bride finally began. The prince felt her breath catch in her chest as she laid eyes on Kelsey. Her young bride looked truly divine; like an angel, floating gracefully towards her. The beautiful strawberry-blonde was dressed in white silk, the dress made from the finest material the seamstress could get her hands on. White slippers on her feet, a halo of flowers pinned into her hair, and a freshly cut bunch held in her hands completed her outfit.
Ripley found her eyes glued to Kelsey as the young woman made her way towards the front of the church. The church itself was packed full, as Ripley had suspected it would be. None of the people seated mattered at that moment, Ripley only aware of the beauty coming towards her.
Kelsey couldn't help but stare at the waiting prince. He looked dashing in his fine wedding clothes, tall and monumental, giving off an air of importance. She couldn't decipher the look on his face, but thought that he was pleased with how she herself looked. Kelsey couldn't believe the fine material she wore and had almost fainted when the seamstress the King had sent to her, had pulled out the small cut of soft material to show her. Reaching Ripley's side, Kelsey came to a stop and swallowed nervously. Ripley shot her a nervous smile, which set her at ease. He is just as nervous as I am. The bride smiled at her father as he released her arm, and then turned her attention to the Father who stood in front of her and Ripley, waiting to begin.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud," the Father began.
As the ceremony started, Ripley found her eyes drawn to the petite woman at her side. Kelsey was young and innocent, intelligent and kind. Ripley felt strangely protective of her. The world could be a cruel place; the Royal court could especially be a cruel place. What with everyone looking to better their positions and back-stabbing anyone who got in their way, often people were two-faced, nice one minute, speaking behind your back the next. Ripley wanted to shelter Kelsey from all of that.
"It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails," the Father was saying.
I don't have a choice in this marriage, but I can do my best to make Kelsey happy. She has no idea what she is stepping into, and I can attempt to shield her from the worst of it. Ripley smiled as Kelsey turned to look at her. I swear on my honour, Lord, that I will be the best...husband, I can be and make Kelsey's life as happy as I can.
The Father cleared his throat. "Your...Royal Highness?"
Ripley turned to look at Father Dixon, blinking in surprise. "Yes, Father?"
"Are you ready to say your vows?"
Ripley blushed crimson as she turned her attention back the wedding ceremony. "Sorry, Father," she apologised. "Please continue."
The ceremony was long and tiresome; the young couple on their feet for a lot of the time. Finally, though, they took their communion, each taking in their share of the Holy Spirit, and then said their vows of eternal devotion and faithfulness. Both sporting beaming smiles, Ripley led her new bride back down the aisle towards the doors, to the waiting crowds and the carriage that would take them home.
* * * * *
As night fell, Ripley and her young bride were escorted from the celebrations towards Kelsey's new chambers. The castle chaplain and his minions led the ceremonial procession through the castle corridors, up the stone steps and to the corridor where the chambers Kelsey was to call her own were. He had the young couple lay down on the bed, still clothed, and blessed them, praying that their union be fertile and prosperous, paying no mind to their embarrassed blushes.
As the chaplain left the room, along with his minions, Ripley quickly stood up from the bed, still blushing, and turned to face her nervous bride. "I'll leave you now to change, milady," she said softly.
Her stomach flip-flopping, Kelsey bowed her head. "Thank you, My Lord." She watched the blonde leave and let out a long tremulous breath. She looked fearfully around the large room. A fire had been lit in the nearby stone fireplace to warm the chilled room. Even in the warmer months, the castle still needed heating. The bed she sat upon was a beautifully carved mahogany four-poster king-sized bed, with canopies and curtains. The mattress was soft, Kelsey thinking perhaps it was filled with feathers. The colourful quilts that lay on top were a fine silk, and she tenderly stroked the silkiness with her fingertips, marvelling that this was now how she was to live. The life of luxury. A life without struggle or worry about where her next meal was to come from.
Sitting on the end of the bed, Kelsey nibbled on her bottom lip, trying not to think about the fact that she was soon to be a real woman. Despite liking Ripley and being undeniably drawn to him, she couldn't help but wish they didn't have to consummate their marriage so early in their relationship. Why can't we marry and be friends first? she wondered. At least get comfortable around each other before we...blue eyes flicked behind her. She looked to the door as it opened, her heart jumping into her throat as she thought Ripley had returned.
Her newly appointed handmaiden walked in and smiled. "Don't look so worried, milady," the robust, older woman said. "The prince seems the gentle sort to me."
Seems the gentle sort. That must be why the relationship has to be consummated. Once you have been busted, no other decent man will want you, so you are stuck with your husband even if he is a brute! Look at Mildred and Lindsey. I am sure that both would leave their husbands if they could.
"Would you like some help, milady. Getting out of your wedding gown?"
Kelsey blinked at the stranger standing in her room, a trembling hand lifting to stroke the fine dress she wore, her stomach tied up in knots. Slowly, she nodded and got up off the bed. She turned and offered the woman her back, standing still as the pearl buttons were undone for her. Why does it all come down to an emotionless joining, strictly for reproductive purposes? She stepped out of her dress and watched the older woman pick it up carefully and take it over to the sandalwood armoire. I suppose because that is all men want, she thought glumly, slipping into her nightgown. Producing an heir, she thought as she sat down on a stool, her handmaiden standing behind her, a silver-handled comb in hand, waiting to brush the new princess' hair. 'Tis all they care about. What do they care about feelings and love?
The handmaiden wished her a good night and left once Kelsey was ready for bed, leaving the nervous young woman alone to silently contemplate what was about to come. Kelsey slipped beneath her covers, amazed at just how soft her new bed was. Her childhood bed had been stuffed with straw and she often had to toss and turn until she found a comfortable spot. Smiling in delight at just how comfortable she felt, her breath caught suddenly in her chest when she heard the soft tap on her closed door. Her heart began to thump furiously as the door slowly opened and her husband walked in. He was still dressed, though now his shirt was untucked and his jacket was missing.
Ripley swallowed nervously as she approached the large bed. She couldn't look the young woman in the eye. She was so scared about what she was about to do, scared of doing something wrong, scared of hurting Kelsey, but knowing her young bride was surely just as nervous as she, eased some of her anxiety. Ripley slipped into bed next to Kelsey, knowing she had to take the lead. "I am sorry we have to do this," she said quietly. "I know we barely know each other, and personally, I would like to wait, but you know how the church is."
Kelsey blinked in surprise, her husband saying words she never expected to hear. A soft smile danced across her lips. "I understand, really, My Lord." She licked her lips, watching as Ripley mirrored the action, and wondered if she should say what she was thinking. She didn't want to displease her husband though, especially when they were about to consummate their marriage. If I tell him he is like no man I have ever heard of, he may...get rough.
Ripley thought over all that Alden had told her and slowly lifted Kelsey's gown to her hips.
Feeling the prince's callused fingers upon her, Kelsey flinched and gasped in surprise. Ripley paused, looking down into Kelsey's blue eyes for any sign that she had caused her wife pain. Seeing nothing but fear, she slowly continued.
Kelsey clenched her jaw tightly shut, silently cursing herself for making a sound, as she gripped the bedding beneath her, willing herself to remain still and silent. What is he doing? she wondered as Ripley slowly stroked her womanhood with a feather-light touch, his single finger trailing up and down, up and down. Both her mother and sister had warned her of the act, neither mentioning what Ripley was doing. She had to admit, she was finding it quite pleasurable. Her breathing changed in pattern, her body heating up, as the digit explored. Her toes wanted to curl, her hips wanting to rise from the mattress to meet each stroke, perhaps deepen the contact. Kelsey found herself biting her tongue or lower lip as she fought not to make a sound, even as she lost control of her hips and thrust herself up as she sought more of Ripley's touch.
Sensing it was time, Ripley moved to lay on top of Kelsey, pulling the phallus free of her loosened trousers. Positioning herself between Kelsey's parted legs, holding herself up on one arm, Ripley guided the phallus to Kelsey's opening.
Kelsey gasped aloud and clutched the bedding tighter as she felt her husband nudge against her, a motion that made her lower regions throb in anticipation, a tingle of desire shooting through her. She found she wasn't so afraid now. Ripley was proving to be gentle and loving and had her waiting on the edge, waiting for...something she didn't yet know.
Ripley paused as the strawberry-blonde gasped loudly and looked down at closed blue eyes. "Milady?" she softly murmured. "Are you well? Did I hurt you?"
Blue eyes slowly fluttered opened. "No, husband. You...didn't hurt me."
Nodding, Ripley made Kelsey gasp again as she softly kissed the woman's neck, easing the phallus inside as she did so.
Kelsey held tightly to her bedding as her husband spread her inexperienced walls with his slow thrusts in and out, in and out, until he paused and looked down into her eyes.
"I...have to break through, milady," Ripley said softly, her body craving satisfaction, her hips begging to thrust again.
Kelsey nodded and braced herself as she felt Ripley begin his gentle thrusts again. His hips moved, pulling himself out of her, only to slowly push back in, getting her use to the feel of him inside her. He eased deeper and deeper, until with a deep thrust, he broke through her maidenhead. Kelsey sucked in a startled breath, her eyes scrunching shut at the initial pain. Ripley stopped moving and finally, when she opened her eyes to find Ripley's concerned sky-blue watching her, a shaky smile seemed to reassure him and he continued with his gentle lovemaking.
After the first initial pain had faded, Kelsey found that she quite liked being filled by Ripley. Having him deep inside her, his hips thrusting slowly as he sought his pleasure. She wanted to match his movements, but her mother's words of advice echoed through her head. Lie still, daughter. It will hurt, but will quickly be over. And Lindsey's sad words, Ackerley was so rough, it was very painful and I bled heavily. Kelsey lay still, even as Ripley's slow thrusts suddenly became frantic, his breathing heavy as he thrust deep and stiffened. Kelsey bit back a moan as she trembled, her soft inner walls contracting around him, even as he started to retreat from her.
Rolling off her bride, Ripley moved to sit on the edge of the bed, feeling strangely shaky. She hadn't expected to enjoy the act quite so much. Upon kissing Kelsey's soft neck, she had wanted to kiss elsewhere, but wasn't sure if it was allowed. And then the actual act itself! The phallus had not only pleasured Kelsey, but herself as well and now all she wanted was to try again. She wanted to hear her wife gasp and hold her, wanted to hear her name spill from pink lips, wanted to touch Kelsey in that slick, warm, inviting place again. She wasn't sure if any of that was allowed and vowed to find someone to ask. "Are you all right, my wife?" she asked quietly, glancing back over her shoulder at Kelsey, who still lay where she had been.
Kelsey couldn't explain why her body trembled, couldn't understand why their joining hadn't been as terrible as she had feared, couldn't say why she wanted to do it again. "I am fine, My Lord. 'Twas not as bad as I had feared," she softly admitted.
Ripley stood and tucked the phallus away before turning to face Kelsey, offering a small, shy smile. "I shall leave you to rest, milady. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, husband."
Ripley walked over to the door, then paused, turning back to meet watching blue eyes. "You looked very beautiful today, Kelsey. A true vision in your dress."
"Thank you, My Lord," Kelsey replied, blushing.
"If I may make a request?"
Kelsey blinked in surprise. "Anything, My Lord."
Ripley smiled. "Please stop calling me My Lord. Ripley will do, or husband, or...hey you," her smile widened as Kelsey laughed, a delightful sound that she wanted to hear again. "Anything that isn't so formal. We are married now after all."
Kelsey nodded. "I understand, My L-...husband." Left alone in her chambers, the new princess rearranged her gown and settled down into the comfort of her bed. Perhaps this marriage won't be so bad, she thought wearily. Ripley really does seem gentle and kind. We shall see with time, I suppose. When Lindsey got her courses, that was when Ackerley showed her his true colours. I pray that everyone is right about Ripley. A hand drifted to her abdomen. And that I am with child. Though...if I had to go through the act again, I certainly wouldn't complain! With a soft smile on her lips, she drifted into a peaceful slumber.
* * * * *
Ripley stepped into her room; her body was trembling and tingling, her legs shaking. She had been surprised she made it to her chambers without falling. With the tight constriction of her leather trousers, her own wetness was making her uncomfortable. As she walked through her receiving room to her bedchamber, Ripley began unlacing her trousers, wanting to free herself. Stopping at the end of her bed, she peeled them down her legs and looked down at the 'manhood' that hung between her legs, seeing it glistening from Kelsey's desire.
A hand drifted to the phallus, fingers coating themselves in Kelsey's slick desire. I have done my duty now, she thought, lifting her fingers to her nose and inhaling the musky aroma of her wife. I have married, I have made Kelsey a woman, now I should stay away from her and let her have her own life, for I am no man and cannot give her what other men could. Her hand dropped as a great sadness rushed through her.
With a groan, she quickly unbuckled the harness that held the phallus in place and tossed it onto the bed. Her light curls were wet and sticky from her passion. Undressing completely and slipping into a nightshirt, Ripley knew she wouldn't be able to sleep. She carefully tucked away the phallus and harness in a drawer for safekeeping, and then walked back through to the receiving room.
She poured herself a large mug of wine, hoping to stop her shaking, and settled on the longue that sat in front of her stone fireplace. She watched the flickering flames, reflecting back on her lovemaking with Kelsey. The strawberry-blonde had felt so soft, and when she had lain upon the smaller woman, feeling her lithe body beneath her...Ripley lifted her mug and sipped at her wine. She lifted her fingers and studied them, remembering the soft silkiness of Kelsey's womanhood as she had caressed her wife. I have never known something so divine. Lowering her hand, Ripley sighed heavily and finished her drink. Sleep. I need to be rested for my duties tomorrow. Now that the wedding is over, everything should return to normal.
Lying in bed alone, the prince's last thoughts were of how wonderful it had been making love to Kelsey.