Friday, November 6, 2009

Chapter 12 - I see you...

Chapter 12 – I see you…

“Tell me what you see, sister!” Oswald yelled. Frieda sat stone-faced. There was a time when she had feared her brother, but she had learned that he needed her, and that there was no way he could rule without her.

“What do you want to know, brother.” She droned. There was no love there, only a need to survive. She was the daughter of the king, but had no real rights. The only thing keeping her safe was Oswald, and the only thing Oswald wanted from her was her gift.

“I want to know where Katharine is now. My men tell me she is in Charland, preparing to marry Dane, but you said that they would not be wed this week, you said that they did not want to wed! Now tell me, sister, what do you see?” He pounded his fist on the table, his face a bright red. Frieda gazed into the pool of water and concentrated. She could see faces, and suddenly she was lost in a swirl of liquid light, as if she were underwater looking up at the world. She concentrated harder, and the world became clear again.

“I see Katharine and Dane, together, but… They don’t know each other. They are on horseback, on a picnic? Alone. It is the countryside…” She trailed off. She looked around, but did not recognize the land. She had never seen it before. “There is a small village in the distance. It does not look familiar. They are laughing… “ She stopped. They looked like they were in love. Katharine touched Dane’s arm, like her mother used to touch the King. Frieda wanted someone to look at her the way that Dane looked at Katharine. Frieda did not want her brother to know that they were in love. He would hold off his plan if he thought that they were not going to be wed.

“Inconceivable!” Oswald hollered. “If they are not at Charland Castle than who is? And where are they?” His hollered and stomping about broke her concentration, and she was thrust back through the swirling liquid into her own sad reality. She blinked at the dimness of the room. “Where would a prince and a princess go to hide?” He asked no one. His eyebrows, once furrowed, now raised, and he looked almost excited. “Perhaps… Yes! That has to be it!” He dropped a bag on the table and left the room, without another word.

She wondered how much he had left her this time. She spilled the contents of the bag onto the table. She sighed. The gold and silver coins were scarcely more than what her cook made in a moon, but hardly enough for what she was planning. She needed to get away from Oswald, to somewhere safe. If he kept giving her a mere pittance, than she would never be able to save enough… She wondered if he knew she was planning to run away, to meet the handsome man in her visions. The one who helped King Edward. He was a strong beautiful man, with such kindness in his eyes…

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Chapter 11 – Dukes past may come back to haunt him

They made their way back to the gardens, Elizabeth’s hand holding tightly to Duke’s arm. She was a bit chilly, now that the glow of the pub was behind them. Duke felt her shiver, and he paused. He took off his cloak and put it around her. Now the smell of him enveloped her, and she was entranced.

“Tell me about you…Dane. What are you really like.” Elizabeth asked. “We have heard a great many rumor about you.” Duke looked down at her.

“Oh really, what do they say about me in Moscovia?” Duke asked, amused.

“They say that you are a womanizer, a different pub wench every night, That you are a loud, drunken fool. That’s what they say about the Prince of Charland.” She looked up at him.

“Do not worry, as a Prince, I would never act that way.” He said, dryly.

“Oh good, who would want to marry a man like that?” She said happily. She leaned into him a bit. He suddenly felt horribly sick inside. Perhaps it was better that she was intended for someone else…

When they arrived back, Duke escorted her to her room, where Sarah was waiting to help her get ready for bed.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 10– Katharine meets Dane

“Lady Anne!” Dane enthused, “You look lovelier than ever!” Anne hugged the young Prince. She had always adored the boy. She was sad to hear that he did not want to marry Katharine.

He looked around. Not much had changed since the last time that he had visited. The only thing that was really different this time was that there was not as much pomp and circumstance at his arrival. Not being the prince for a week or so could be fun.

“Duke! It is so nice to see you.” Lady Anne winked at him. “Please let me show you to your rooms!” She led him and his few servants to the rooms that had been prepared for them.

“Now,” She said, “Elizabeth will be here soon, and I really want you to meet her. She would be a good catch for a man like you. She’s sweet, kind, a little sheltered, though. Rarely gets out of the castle, but that’s to be expected y’know.” She smiled, “I think you will really like her.”

He wondered if this sweet, sheltered handmaiden was pretty…not that he was all that interested. After all this week he was Duke! Duke didn’t hang around just one woman, he wasn’t tied down. He was free! He could have any woman he wanted, and some that he didn’t want too… Yes, he would really enjoy this week.

He looked around and saw that the servants had already finished unpacking his things. He wondered if there was time to clean up before he met this Elizabeth.

He heard the announcement that someone had arrived, and ventured toward the main entryway. It was some old noble man from Moscovia, no one of great interest. He wandered out the back and into the garden, toward the stable, he loved to ride horses.

“I wonder if Elizabeth likes horses…” He asked aloud to no one in particular. “Well, I guess I’ll find out.” He decided. Then he wandered back inside, past the library, and the small reception area. He was surprised at the lack of young women about. He had remembered Anne’s retreat always having a number of young ladies, usually the daughters of nobility.

“Duke!” He heard one of his servants bellow. “Lady Anne has requested your presence at the Main Entrance.” He quickened his pace.

“Thank you George” Dane patted the man on the back. Good old George, he was a loyal servant, always willing to do a little extra.

“Duke, there you are. You just wandered off…” Anne shook her head at him. He smiled. “Elizabeth is arriving… Straighten your shirt.” He did as he was told. He looked down at his pants to make sure that there was no visible dirt, and as he looked up, she entered.

She was not at all what he had expected. This was a handmaiden? She was slim, pale, with long brown hair. She wore a blue riding gown, that brought out her sparkling blue eyes. Her skin was so milky, and looked quite soft, belying pampering – not hard work. She smiled at Anne, and he melted a little. Her voice was like a songbird…her voice…Oh! She was talking! Had she said something to him? No, he blinked, almost back to reality, she was embracing Anne, and the two women were chatting.

“Duke of Cardborough,” Anne said, holding Katharine’s hand, “This is Elizabeth, handmaiden to the Princess of Moscovia.” Katharine curtsied, and Dane bowed.

“I am quite pleased to meet you.” Dane said taking her hand. He gently kissed the back of her hand, and Katharine felt electricity run up her spine.

“And I you, m’Lord” She said, almost breathless. This Duke was young, and very handsome. His build was muscular, but not bulky. His hair was dark, and thick. He was dressed well. His eyes were so dark they were almost black. She felt she would get lost in them if he held her gaze much longer.

“Come Elizabeth.” Lady Anne interjected. “We need to get you to your rooms. You will need to get ready for dinner.” Yes, rooms, dinner, of course. Katharine collected herself.

“Thank you.” She desperately wanted to get away from this man before she forgot everything she had been taught about propriety. His very presence unnerved her so, that she just wanted to run and hide. His smell was still with her as they reached her rooms. Anne hugged her niece again, and left her with the servants. She had a few words for Dane.

“Young man!” She hissed at him. “How could you look at that young woman that way? Can I trust you with her this week?” She was not as sure as her sister was that this man should be left alone with Katharine. Prince or no, Anne had seen the look in his eyes, and she knew what men could be capable of.

“I am no monster madam!” Dane was hurt, and a little shocked that he was so transparent. He had been thinking of terribly inappropriate things. “She will be perfectly safe with me.” Anne looked at him. If it had been the real Duke standing there, she would have put an end to the nonsense then and there, but Dane was not the rogue his best friend was, no matter what the rumors said. She sighed.

“She is completely innocent, and I expect that she will leave the same way!” Anne stated. “See to it.” She said, leaving in a huff.

Perhaps being Duke was not so great…Especially when he was not in his own kingdom. He really wanted to see Elizabeth again. He wondered what she had thought of him.

Apologies. Life is getting in the way!!

So my real life is getting in the way of getting the story out to you. I have been trying to get too many things going at once. I should know better by now, but obviously I don't. Expect to see a chapter up tonight or tomorrow morning, and then an updated schedule for when the updates will come.

Thank you for reading!

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

its back!!!

ok - so I have patched the hole, and will be back on track this weekend, if not earlier.

Thanks for reading!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

I found a hole!!!

So as I post, I read ahead a few chapters, to make sure everythign still flows right... and found a tiny hole in the plot. Now, I could leave it alone... but I really can't, so I will probably not post again until Thursday or Friday.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 9 - Dinner and a Brew?

“Here we go my dear.” He said, offering Elizabeth his hand. “Let us make ourselves scarce.” She smiled sweetly at him, and his heart flipped about in his chest. She had looked so uncomfortable making small talk and nibbling at the massive amounts of food that were in front of them. He hoped a walk in the garden would help her relax. “I’ll show you the garden. Its lovely.” She took his arm, and he led her out of the dining hall.

She wasn’t sure she wanted to be alone with him, but she certainly was happy to get out of there. All the people staring at her, she felt so out of place. Could they tell that she didn’t belong? She hoped not. She did what she was told. Try a little of everything, and eat more of what she really liked, but there was so much. She wasn’t used to big dinners. She mostly went to parties where there was dancing, and only a little food. Katharine usually took her meals in the garden, or her chambers. When it was cold, they would take meals in the library, where she and Katharine would sit and knit around the fireplace. Sometimes she would bring the little bit of mending in, and work on it there too. She missed Katharine. She sighed.

“Are you alright my sweet?” He said, warmly. He looked down at her. She seemed melancholy. He wondered if she missed her intended…

“I miss…. Elizabeth.” She hoped he caught her meaning, which was two fold. He nodded. “She and I were always together, and… it’s hard to be away from her for so long.” She would miss both Katharine, and herself. She knew she had to do her best to be Katharine for now.

Duke understood. It must be hard to be away from home, away from the person you have served for so long. It must also be hard to have to be someone else… He knew it was hard for him.

“Tell me about your real life. We are alone… and I would like to know.” He wanted to know how much she had said before was really her and how much was Katharine.

“Well, its mostly the same, we go everywhere together, she is the best friend I have. I guess the only real difference is I have freedom. I can walk through town, or get an ale at the local pub if I would like.” He raised his eyebrows.

“You like ale?” She looked up at him. He seemed amused.

“I know its not proper, but I do enjoy a pint.” She giggled. “Actually I could go for one right now.” His eyes lit up. A pint? Now?

“Let’s see if we can get to the pub. I know one just a short walk from here.” He looked around, he saw Michael standing in the entryway to the Main hall. He motioned to him.

Michael walked over, unsure of what the Duke could want. “Yes, Dane?” He looked from Duke to Elizabeth. They were obviously smitten, which was dangerous, and interesting at the same time. He had never seen Duke smitten before.

“Elizabeth would like to go to the pub… and I would like permission to take her.” Duke asked, more timidly than he intended.

“Are you crazy?” Michael whispered, “This delicate woman at a Pub?” Elizabeth looked from Duke to Michael. She wasn’t used to be considered delicate.

“Please Michael?” She batted her eyelashes at him. “I would love to have a nice ale.” Michael couldn’t deny her. She was such a sweet young girl. He looked around.

“If Edward and Christine find out we are all dead. Take 2 guards. Do not be long.” He warned harshly. Michael waved over some guards.

“Thank you!” Elizabeth gushed, tempted to hug the gruff man. Instead she just touched his arm.

Duke led their little party to the Pub. It was just inside the main wall of the keep. Elizabeth knew that during the daytime the whole area would be bustling with vendors, selling animals, dried meats, mead, ale, vegetables, clothes, and household goods.

They walked into the smoky pub, and immediately were greeted with a resounding “Huzzah!” The two guards placed them at a table where everyone was visible. A wench came over and took their order. Elizabeth had an ale, and Duke got his usual. The wench looked at him funny. For a moment she thought that Dane was looking a bit odd, but decided that it was just the light.

“Are you here enough to have a usual?” Elizabeth asked. She wasn’t sure how often a Prince or a Duke should go to a pub, or how many times it took to have a “usual”. She knew that she did not have a “usual” at the pub in the Moscovia Castle keep. Duke laughed.

“Dear, I come here with… the Duke about once a week. And I am the Prince, a little more memorable than the average patron.” He winked at her. She laughed. She supposed that was true, a Duke or Prince would be a bit easier to remember than some regular citizen.

Their drinks arrived, and Elizabeth sipped her ale. It was warm, smooth, and a little tangy. Perfect. Duke had gotten a mead, he had forgotten that it was what Dane usually got. He sipped it, and watched Elizabeth enjoy her ale.

She was so beautiful. He put his hand on hers. She smiled. Maybe this week wouldn’t be so bad.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 8 - Duke and Elizabeth meet

“You play nice.” Christine hissed at Duke. “I don’t want any of your funny business.” Duke rolled his eyes. Why would he want some fat handmaiden? She was probably some horse faced, bucktoothed….goddess?

“Duke” King Edward bellowed. “I would like to present – Elizabeth.” They stared at each other. Duke just couldn’t bring himself to say anything. She was radiant, curvy, pale, luscious… Not like any servant girl he had ever seen. She had huge brown eyes, and a sweet smile.

Elizabeth didn’t know what to say, or do. Should she curtsy? Or what for him to speak? Perhaps he would kiss her hand? She had seen dukes do that in the Moscovia castle.

“Ahem.” Edward interrupted the awkward silence. “It is of utmost importance that outside of this room, you two are Dane and Katharine. You are in love. You are getting married in one week. Oswald’s spies are out there. I have no doubt that our servants are loyal, however I need everone to be cautious. Everyone understand?” He looked around. “Excellent. Well, it is almost time for supper. Dane m’boy, you need to get ready! Katharine, Sarah will attend to your dress, and hair. Off you go!”

Elizabeth had her doubts about the plan, some about herself, but most were about the Duke. He was attractive, no doubts there, but the way he looked at her, it made her stomach uneasy. She felt flushed, and off kilter. No one had ever looked at her like that before, she wasn’t sure that it was proper… but she liked it.

Up in Dane’s quarters, Duke transformed himself into his best friend. Michael cut Duke’s hair, and trimmed his beard. With Dane’s clothes on there was little difference between the men. Duke was a touch shorter, and more tanned, and slightly more muscular than Dane, but it would be difficult to tell without Dane around.

He hurried to get down to the hall before Elizabeth did. She took his breath away earlier, and he did not want a repeat performance at dinner. If he was there early he could prepare himself for when she was announced.

There was something about the girl that told him she was something special. She made him feel like no other woman had. He had laid eyes on everyone from nobility to bar wench, and none looked like that. None had eyes that seemed to touch his soul. None made him feel like baring his deepest thoughts. He wanted to touch her ivory skin, but was afraid she would break. He ached to run his fingers through her hair…

Christine would kill him if she knew he was thinking this way about Elizabeth. He was afraid of himself, at this point too, because he would have to touch her… court her… woo her as if she were to be his.

But she would never be his, he knew that. He would never have Elizabeth, not the way he had had other women. Christine had made that perfectly clear. He could face horrible repercussions if he cross Christine. He feared he would have to, as he was not sure he could control himself. Perhaps if she were terribly boring… that would certainly make it easier. Well, he comforted himself, how exciting could being a reclusive princess’s handmaiden be?

“Dane, m’boy?” Bellowed King Edward, giving Duke a bit of a start. “Come, sit. As usual the women are taking their time.”

Duke sat in Dane’s chair. He looked at the four head chairs. They were ornate, and padded. All the other tables had benches, the first two rows had padding, but after that were just hard wood.

Duke looked across the table at the chair that Elizabeth would be sitting in, next to the Queens chair. It was a perfect reflection of the chair he sat in now. The Queen chair was a reflection of the Kings. Before Duke could put more thought into why this may be, he heard an annoyed cough from the back of the room. Edward and Duke looked up and saw Christine at the back of the room.

“Ah, yes, propriety m’boy, Christine will be most strict about this tonight. Come, let’s not upset her.” Duke rose and followed the King out of the main dining hall. There was a reception room off to the side, where they would wait until everyone else was seated.

“Then you and Dane will go in, followed by Edward and I”, Christine was explaining to Elizabeth. Duke paused at the doorway, staring at Elizabeth in her deep green dress. Her hair was braided, and a crown sat on her head. She wore it well. There was a ring on her finger, and he knew it was meant for Katharine, as a gift from Dane.

“Dane!” Christine snapped. “Are you listening?” She crossed her arms. He stared at her blankly. “Oh, never mind. Now, when you are announced escort Katharine down the aisle, we will try to keep people away from the crowd. Just be sure to use the correct names.” She practically whispered. Then she took Duke by the arm. “ You stop looking at her like that. She is not intended for you.” The words were barely audible, but he could hear the venom in her voice.

“Then who is she intended for? Does he know where she is? What she is doing?” He shot back.

Christine was puzzled by Duke’s apparent concern, as was Duke. Why did he care who she was intended for? All he had to do was get through this week, and he would be rid of her. Duke decided that it would be a good time to quench his curiosity and talk to Elizabeth, see how boring she was.

“So, Katharine, what do you do all day in the castle. Anything interesting? Or is all quite boring?” King Edward rolled his eyes and Christine looked at them both quizzically.

“Well” She said at last, her voice was like honey. “There really isn’t all that much to do, with all the servants around.” She swallowed. Elizabeth was so nervous, and he was looking at her strangely again. “I enjoy horseback riding when father will allow it. I love to stroll through the gardens as often as I can, the gardener loves to tell me all about the flowers. Occasionally Father lets Elizabeth and I sit in on his meetings. He believes it will make me a better wife, a better helper for him.” Elizabeth found it easier to talk about Katharine’s life, because it was her life too. Katharine had always insisted that Elizabeth go with her everywhere. Elizabeth knew it was not solely for Katharine’s sake, but also for Elizabeth’s. It was not every servant that got to go out in the middle of the day, go horseback riding, or attend parties.

“Really?” Duke finally managed. “You like horses?” her eyes lit up, and Duke was floating on air. They talked about horses up until they were announced.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 7 - Elizabeth's Arrival

The very next day Elizabeth arrived at Charland Castle. She was greeted like royalty. Even though she knew it was all a ruse, it still felt so real! She has always wondered what it would be like to be Katharine, and now she would get to find out.

She knew she looked enough like Katharine to fool the people of Charland, and Oswald’s spies, but having never met the Duke or the Prince, she could only hope that they were similar enough to fool Oswald’s men.

There was a lot resting on this meeting, and the next few days. If Oswald’s spies suspected that Dane and Katharine were not in Charland, or knew of Edward and Douglas’ plan…there would be trouble, lots of trouble.

Edward could see so much of Katharine in Elizabeth, the way she walked, and held herself. He was impressed. She had the same chestnut hair, pale skin, slim figure. It was only up close that the illusion began to fail. Elizabeth had a slightly curvier figure, was about 3 inches taller. Katharine’s eyes were blue, while Elizabeth’s were a warm brown. The biggest difference Edward could see was that Elizabeth had a loud, kind, happy voice. Katharine had always had a more mellow, gentle quality to her voice, and rarely spoke. Elizabeth hadn’t stopped talking and asking questions of Christine since she had arrived. Edward smiled, and Christine patted the young woman’s shoulder.

“Child, child, please slow down… All will be answered shortly.” Christine soothed. “All your bags are already being taken to your quarters.” She motioned for one of her ladies to come forward. “This is Sarah, she will attend to you while you are here. She will arrange for anything you need.”

Elizabeth was speechless, looking back and forth between Sarah and the Queen. She got a servant? But…how would that work? She didn’t know how to order anyone around…

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” She finally got out. “I would like to go freshen up before I meet…”

“Dane?” Edward interrupted. “Oh yes Katharine, of course you would!” Oh, yes, Dane, she thought to herself.

“Your highness?” Sarah asked meekly, “May I show you to your bath? I had one drawn for you, it should be ready now. Please, follow me.” Elizabeth nodded, and followed. This would certainly be interesting. She rarely got a real bath, though Katharine had insisted that Elizabeth get a nice bath as often as she could get away with it. Elizabeth realized just how much like sisters the two girls had become, and yet how different they still were. Elizabeth remembered sharing a bath with Katharine when they were little, splashing each other, and getting in trouble for making everything in the bathroom wet. She smiled…

“Here are your quarters, m’lady.” Sarah gestured, “Shall I assist you with your dress?” Elizabeth paused. Then nodded. She felt odd being helped. Not having to do so much for herself. She had always had some help, but not like this. The young servant girl undid the stays on the back of the dress, and Elizabeth stepped out of the simple green riding dress. She felt so naked in just her chemise, but she knew that it was normal to see Katharine in hers… and that the girl helping her would not feel at all awkward. “ The bath is this way m’lady.” There was a beautiful screen, and behind it a tub, much like the one in Katharine’s room. “Can I assist you further?” The young woman asked cautiously. Sarah was not sure how to handle the Princess. She had been told that Katharine was cranky, and could fly off the handle at any moment, yell and scream over the smallest misstep. She had seen no indication of this so far, but didn’t want to chance it.

“No, thank you Sarah. I’d like a little privacy.” Elizabeth said, gently. She smiled gratefully at the young servant girl. Sarah excused herself, and left very, very confused.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 6 – Douglas and Rebecca's deception

“Douglas, do you think it’s right?” Lamented Queen Rebecca, “Lying to our only child?” Poor sweet innocent Katharine, she thought to herself.

“It would seem we have no choice. Besides, maybe she will learn to love him this way. Just like I learned to love you.” He loved to watch Rebecca blush.

“Alright, alright. So what are we supposed to tell her?” A smile played on Douglas’ lips.


“Father” She said slowly, “What are you saying? Elizabeth marries the Prince? And I go to Aunt Anne’s? I must say I am a little confused.” Katharine sat on her bed.

“Well, my child, Dane needs a bride, and we promised Edward and Christine… Since you wouldn’t marry him, Elizabeth agreed to go in your stead.” Douglas felt a little bad lying to her, but he was hopeful it would all turn out for the best. “It wouldn’t be appropriate for you to be there, and we cant have you here so close to the marriage deadline. Besides the Duke of Cardborough will be at Aunt Anne’s house, and he should be excellent company. He could be a good match…”

“I don’t know Father. Isn’t he one of Dane’s friends?” Katharine eyed her parents warily.

“Give the man a sporting chance, and it’s only for a week.” Rebecca interjected. Katharine shrugged.

“What could it hurt. I suppose I will pack for the trip.” She felt some relief, a little bit of triumph. Though there was a twang of guilt. Her reluctance to marry had forced her best friend into a marriage. Now she was being sent away, essentially to hide out from Oswald.

She hated this, all of it. The having to grow up, be an adult, but still not able to make her own decisions. She had to marry someone, but she didn’t really like men, they were rude and mean. Men killed other men over stupid things… They lied, and cheated. There were some men like her father who were kind and just, but she had never met anyone else like that, though Kind Edward was a nice enough man, the few times that she had met him.

She packed, while she thought about her future husband. She just wanted someone kind, gentle, and fair. Who didn’t want to rule the world, just wanted the best for his subjects.

She would see of this Duke fellow was worth her time… what precious little time she had left…

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Character Intro - Michael

Michael is King Edwards highest ranking manservant. He is the most loyal, trustworthy and sincere man in the castle. He is honest, and very thorough in his work. He often takes notes during the kings meetings. Edward is known to hold his opinions in high regard.

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 5 – Duke and King

Around dinnertime, the Duke entered the Castle. The King’s right hand man, Michael, greeted him.

“Michael, I seek counsel with his majesty. Dane has sent me here to speak with him on a very important matter.” Michael rolled his eyes, as the Duke was prone to eloquent speech, without much substance.

“Your Highness. Reginald, Duke of Cardborough is here to see you.” Michael knew how much the Duke disliked his first name, and used it as often as was permissible.

“Ah Duke, So good to see you. No doubt you are here at Dane’s request.” Edward clapped the young man on the back. Christine at him from her seat in front of the fire.

“Don’t you think we should be alone?” The Duke replied, haughtily. Edward snorted, Christine furrowed her brow, and Michael rolled his eyes again.

“Son, sit. We need to talk. Michael, take notes.” Edward sat in his huge chair behind his huge desk. “Dane has filled her head with ideas, I’m sure. He’s got you thinking that you are going to marry Katharine, and be King.” Duke squirmed uncomfortably. “That is not going to happen.” Relief swept over the Duke. “Instead, you are going to lie to Dane, and tell him you will, and then you will help host Elizabeth, Katharine’s handmaiden, while she is here. You will encourage Dane to go to Lady Anne’s house to relax.” Some of Duke’s ego seemed to have deflated.

“Sire, I do not understand what good any of this will do.” Duke replied, while wondering what Elizabeth looked like, probably fat…

“that is not for you to know at this time. Michael will arrange for you and Elizabeth to stay here at the Castle, and you will have plenty of time to spend with her. You will find her a bright girl with a great personality. I believe you will enjoy her company.” Wonderful, Duke thought, Smart, fat, and friendly, not exactly his idea of a great date.

“If you even think, about trying any of your usual antics with her… “Christine interjected, “there will be hell to pay.” The look on her face told him he she was very serious.

“You’ll be wise to stay in our good graces.” Edward said, cordially, but there was a threat lying beneath it. “Dane will be no worse for wear when he returns from Anne’s. Don’t worry about him.” Duke had almost forgotten about him.

“I wont,” Duke finally spat out. Edward excused him, and Michael showed him out Edward smiled at his wife, and she smiled back, not letting on the unease that she felt.

If Dane uncovered their deception before the time was right, all would be lost. She also worried about handing Elizabeth over to the over sexed Duke. Elizabeth was no angel, but she was still a naïve virgin. Christine wanted to see her leave still a virgin, tho maybe not so naïve.

Edward watched his wife, lost in thought. He knew she was worried, it showed on her face. He also knew that she trusted him completely.

“I love you.” He said, kissing her worried forehead. “Everything will turn out alright in the end. Trust me.”

Friday, March 27, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 4 – Dane and King

Chapter 4 – Dane and King

“You want I should tell Douglas and Rebecca that instead of you marrying their one and only child, that your sleazy, self absorbed best friend will the be the lucky man… Right.” Edward said. “and what says the Duke of all this?” Dane grinned.

“He said wonderful things, wonderful things.” Dane answered, happy to no have to lie.

“Alright then. Send me the Duke. I’ll chat with him on the subject. You are not out of all this yet m’boy. And I hold you responsible for any wrongs that come from this.” Edward warned.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Christine murmured. As her son exited the room.

“Don’t worry my dear, don’t worry.” Edward whispered into his dear wife’s ear. He was grateful for the beautiful woman he had married. She was such a blessing, like Katharine would be for Dane. “This calls for drastic measures. If only our fathers were still around. They tricked you into marrying me…” He said, kissing her nose.

“And I have never forgiven him for it,” Christine teased. Edward laughed.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Character Intro - Duke of Cardborugh

Reginald, Duke of Cardborough - The Duke dislikes his given name, and goes simply by "Duke". He has inherited the title when his father passed away when Duke was only 8 years old. His mother was less than affectionate towards the boy after her husband passed away. The young Duke grew up along side Prince Dane, as their families had always been quite close, and they were paired together for sword fighting, and horse riding lessons. The Duke is a known ladies man, who has no plans for marriage. His mother passed away 2 years previous to the beginning of this story.

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 3 - Dane and the Duke

“Look, Dane, I don’t know what you want to hear, but I say marry the shrew.” Duke paused to check out the barmaid. “She’s beautiful, she’s virginal, and she’s a princess. You get the added bonus of uniting two kingdoms. More troops, more land, more money, more power. Where do you lose?” Dane knew that there would be no getting Duke to be on his side. Unless…

“Then you marry her.” Duke almost choked on his beer. “You’ll get to be King, and a hero. Everyone wins.” Dane knew that he had Duke, if he denied the idea, then he would have to take back what he said.

“But you are promised to her, not me. There is no way her parents would agree to this – I have a reputation.” Well earned Dane surmised, as Duke winked at a pretty lass. It may be harder than he thought.

“We shall see.” Dane said, standing. “I’ll talk to my father.”

And so he did.

Character Intro - Katharine and Elizabeth

Katharine - Second born to Queen Rebecca and King Douglas. Almost 16 years of age when the story begins. Her older Brother Brendon died when she was very young, it has affected every part of her life.

Elizabeth - handmaiden, and best friend of Princess Katharine. She is fiercely loyal, fond of boys, and very impressionable. She thinks she knows a lot about men, but doesn't.

Katharine and Dane - Chpater 2 - Katharine's Rant

“Why did God give me this burden?” She lamented. “To choose between two men I despise… If I do not marry Dane, I shall almost certainly be forced to marry Oswald.” She shuddered at the mere thought of marrying that old man. Ugly…brutish…and those were his good qualities. “Oh Elizabeth, what do I do?” Her handmaiden, and best friend, what would she do with her?

“Kay..There’s only one choice. Marry Dane.” She said… Katharine pouted, well of course Elizabeth would side with her parents. “I hear he’s handsome, strong, lean…easy on the eyes.” Katharine laughed. Elizabeth loved to look at men, and they seemed to love to look at her too.

“But dear Elizabeth, what of the rumors? His many ladies. The bars, the wenches…these are not the things that make a good King, or a good husband.” Elizabeth frowned, Katharine had a good point. What good is a good looking man if everyone else has already had a good look?

“I do not envy you this decision, but remember not to let your pride get in the way of what’s best for the kingdom.” Elizabeth warned, then left her with her thoughts. She didn’t want to marry Oswald, that for certain, but what of Dane? If the rumors were proved true, she would be stuck with an immoral, sex crazed maniac. She certainly didn’t want that either! There must be another way, she thought to herself, Someone else, ANYONE else. But who? She’d talk to Elizabeth about it some more later. She knew that she would give her good advice.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Characters Intro - Dane and Edward

King Edward is the Father of Prince Dane. He is a kind older gentleman. He was the older of two brothers who are featured in the "Christine and Rebecca" Prequel that I will give you next. he rules the kingdom of Charland, since his Fathers death almost 15 years previous.

Prince Dane is the only child of King Edward and his lovely wife Christine, He was born almost exactly 9 months after they were married. While normally a happy, thoughtful son, the impending marriage to Princess Katharine of Moscovia is making him moody.

Update

So there was chapter one. I have a few more chapters ready, and I think I will update you Saturday, Tuesday, Thursday. We will see how that goes. I'll give you notes on the Characters as I introduce them.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Katharine and Dane - Chapter 1 - Dane's Rant

Chapter 1 – Dane’s Rant

“And why again?” He began for the 5th time that week. “Why should I marry this shrew?” Dane continued his rant, as his father rolled his eyes. “Because if I don’t,” he answered himself, “She will have to marry King ‘Old Balls’.” He threw his hands up in the air, “So what!!! So what if she has to marry that old man? I. Don’t. Care. I see no problem with this.”

“Look, son. As I have said before, your Mother and I made a deal with King Douglas and Queen Rebecca, many, many years ago.” Dane flopped on the couch in his father’s office. “Don’t you think it would be unwise, and unfair, to ask us to break that promise? Especially with such dear friends.” It was Dane’s turn to roll his eyes. “Second, she is no shrew. Katharine is a kind, generous, and very beautiful young woman.”

Dane sat up. “Then why have I not seen her since we were children? Why is it that every time that we visit these ‘friends’ of yours that she is no where to be seen?”

“You now the answer to that question my boy.” King Edward shot back. He now sat down behind his most royal desk, handed down to him when his father King Brutus passed away. Edward was sure the desk had been in the family a least 4 generations. He had hoped to let his son sit behind the desk someday soon.

“Yeah, yeah, dead brother, blah, blah, blah.” He smart mouthed. “Whatever.” He stared out the window, there had to be someone out there for him, that complemented him, made him feel alive!

“Third,” Edward continued, more that a little peeved, “If she married King OSWALD, you will have to deal with the consequences.”

“Consequences?” His attention snapped back to his current predicament, “What consequences? I don’t have to marry some shrewish princess, and ‘Oswald’ gets what he wants. Everyone’s happy!”

“HA! Let me fill you in on a little something my dear child, If she marries Oswald, when her parents diie, those 2 kingdoms unite.” He pointed to the map on the wall. “Oswald hates us, as you well know, and Katharine won’t exactly be your biggest fan if you break the engagement and force her to marry him. See how large their two kingdoms will be? The army would be insurmountable. Any attack on us would be a sure victory for Oswald.” The fog began to lift in Dane’s brain.

“So, if I don’t marry her, I’ll lose my kingdom, maybe even my life?” Edward nodded sadly. “But if I DO…I’ll be miserable either way! That’s hardly fair!”

“You will be happy if you choose to be happy, my son. Either way, it is in the end, your decision. I will not force you to marry Katharine.” Edward sighed. “In the end, you can choose as to whether you will both be happy, together, or if Oswald will be happy.” Edward walked to the door, and looked back at his son. “Choose wisely, my son.” And with that left Dane to ponder his future.

Dane stared at the large desk, then at the map on the wall. He sat behind his father’s desk. He felt so small behind it. He was 18, a MAN! Yet he felt like such a child still.

It had been 7 years since he met his bride-to-be. Her brother had been alive then. They had sat together at dinner that night, talking of swords and horses and other manly pursuits. It was only after dinner that he was introduced to Katharine. She had been a little brat, sticking her tongue out at him and telling him that he smelled like a dog. As they were on their way home, his parents told him that he would have to marry her. It was only a few months later that her brother had died. Some tragic sword fighting accident. No one outside the Moscovia castle had seen Katharine since.

He had heard the stories tho. It was said that she was spoiled, demanding. If she didn’t get what she wanted she would throw fits. Yelling, screaming, throwing things, just awful stuff. Just the other day he had heard that Katharine had a baker put to death because he boiled her potatoes instead of frying them… or was it the other way around… he couldn’t remember.

How could his parents ask him to marry a girl like that? If only there were some other woman, someone suitable for marriage. He could claim love for her, appear noble, maybe even righteous, or at least not like the selfish oaf he felt like he was being perceived as. Dane knew he was being a teeny bit selfish, but weren’t his parents being all the more unreasonable? They expected him to marry some girl he had only met once, who didn’t like him then, and certainly wouldn’t like him now. Add to that her Royal Bitch-y-ness’s attitude, and, well… He’d pass. Perhaps the Duke would be able to help.

A few Stories

So - I should be posting the first part of one of my stories tonight. I'm thinking of giving you "Katharine and Dane" - Ch 1 - Dane's Rant. This is one I started about 5 years ago, and have still never finished. I had written about 1/2 the story, then scrapped it and started over. So here is the third try. I actually know how it will end, and have that in my head, but getting through the last third ( y'know where all the "action" is ) will be difficult.

In a few days I will get going on "At Yarns End" a story about a young widow who owns a yarn shop. I have a few stories about widows, mostly because thats one of my biggest fears. i may give you a few yarn patterns to go with it. The main character crochets a lot in the story.

After that, perhaps we will get going with one of the others... the prequel to "Katharine and Dane" or "A Bond Renewed" ( another widow story), or maybe something else. I have a few that don't really have an ending yet, so I am reluctant to put them out there.

Well, I'll take the words off the pages, and stick them into the computer tonight, and see if I cant get this thing going!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

How is this going to work

So there are tons of stories in my head, just begging to get out. I write all the time, just to make them leave my brain.

So I figured, I dont plan on publishing them, so why not post them on the internet so no one will read them here either?

There will probably be a few stories going on at once, when I get this all going. I'm sorry if the stuff in my head is awkward or weird, but thats the way I am.

Thanks for reading.

Tergniw Yoj