Estaldo's Story

by Arafel

Chapters links for this page: 1 2 3

Chapter 1

He woke to the morning light, the sheet tangled loosely around his legs, leaving most of him bare to the cool air. Still almost dreaming, his hand drifted to join the living warmth of the sun, that caressed him so softly. His hand slid along smooth, soft skin, and dozing pleasure subtly grew into arousal as his grip became firmer. The warmth of the sun became heat, joining his hand in touching him from desire to need. His rhythm quickened, until his hips rocked and the breath escaped his lips in a groan. His mind was drawn from formless dreams into focused sensation as the need broke through him, driving out in a crescendo of imagined passion, spent in the now sweaty sheets, alone again.

He sighed as the need left him, still not really satisfied. He had to admit he was awake, and it was time to rise and greet another stultifying day in the great court of Kahlzistan. He poured the tepid water into the basin, and wiped himself down with a linen cloth, enjoying the sensation of cool water washing away the night sweat. He donned clean clothes in his usual colors of deep purple and dark gray, and with another sigh and a shrug he opened the door and strode out to try to find some breakfast without too many courtiers interrupting the meal. He didn't hold out much hope of success.

Slipping down the back servant's stair, he passed a comely young maid, who smiled and turned after he passed to look admiringly after him. He was aware of the frequent glances cast his way, but knew that dalliance with the palace staff was not worth the displeasure it would bring from his father. The bottom of the stair opened into the back hall near the laundry. He would have to either cross the courtyard or enter the main salon to reach the precincts of the kitchen. Opting for the courtyard as likely to be the least inhabited at this time of day, he continued on his quest for food.

Rounding the north tower, he came up face to face with Renaldo, his father's seneschal. "I see you're finally up and about, Estaldo. Your father wants to see you. This morning." The man faced him expressionlessly, but his displeasure with the prince was well known to 'Taldo. He was well aware of what his father wanted of him, too. The anger began already, a heat in the pit of his stomach. So much for enjoying breakfast. Well, he didn't want to face his father on an empty stomach, either. "I'll come to his office as soon as I've eaten," he told Renaldo, and brushed past him to continue on his way to the kitchens.

He passed a few of the minor nobility as he stalked on across the courtyard, but they were familiar with the black look on his face and wisely left him alone. The breakfast cook, however, had no such reservations, having known him since he wore diapers. "After you again, is he young sir? Well, maybe you should just get it over with. Can't be all that bad, with them high bred folks that comes to visit. At least they most of 'em smells okay. Don't know what you're puttin' it off for, you know it'll have to happen sooner or later." The cook handed him a half loaf of bread piled with goat cheese and ham, and an apple from last year's crop, withered from storage but sweet still. Estaldo mumbled back at him without answering any of the supposedly worldly advice. He took some strong tea and went to find a sunny spot by the wall to eat his bounty, a couple of dogs following along in hopes of scraps. "You guys are lucky. When you want some, you get it over with and that's it until next time! Wanna trade?" The dogs smiled back at him, hopes of ham dancing in their eyes. He gave them each a last piece, and rose with yet another sigh.

The walk through the long halls to the King's private office allowed him to gather his thoughts before facing his father. The King looked up from his huge mahogany desk, setting the paper he was reading back on the pile in front of him. Being a king was more about paperwork and secretaries than Estaldo wanted to think about right now. He should get a chance at being a Prince before becoming drowned in paper and duty! "Father. It is good to see you this morning. Renaldo said that you wanted to see me."

"Yes. The Ambassador from Arbigahl is arriving tomorrow. You need to be current with our situation with them."

"I have already spoken with members of your staff and I am caught up," Estaldo smiled. "Also, I've prepared the banquet for the Ambassador. Patrick has agreed to sing and the normal guests shall be attending. The staff is preparing as we speak. I also thought that I would ride out on Alsvider and welcome them to our land and escort them to the castle in advance of the honor guard, which can greet us outside the city gates. Is there anything else?"

"No 'Taldo," King Ramone Kahl'Terres laughed, "you know how to throw a party. But there is another matter that I wish to speak to you about." The king leaned back in his wing chair, crossing his arms over his growing stomach.

"Tessia? The ambassador's daughter?" It came out flat in spite of Estaldo's best efforts.

"Yes. I wish you to stay close to her. Get to know her. Get married to her. And, if you wish, fall in love with her."

"Whoa. Slow it down please, father. I have not even seen her yet. She may not be fit to bed with our pigs let alone the very handsome Prince of Kahlzistan." He posed a little. Keeping this light would give him a much better chance to get through it more or less intact. "But I will do as you ask for the first part. Perhaps I will fall in love with her. But I prefer the loving of the city women. They are much less inhibited than the more noble ladies."

"Do not under estimate the sexual prowess of noble women. I remember this thing your mother used to do with..."

"FATHER PLEASE! I don't think I want to hear that. I have been thinking and I have a proposition for you. It seems to me that we could use some better relations with Marapal and Ozmaroc. I thought that I would take a small entourage and visit those places. Maybe meet the Princess Zabel. I hear she fancies herself a swordsman and rider. Our horse herd could use a few more fine animals for breeding also. And I thought that I might see what the deal was with the mines and the price of maresium."

"You are a treasure 'Taldo. You can take a personal adventure and make it sound like it is essential for the running of the kingdom. But it isn't . It's a very good try, but it is precisely because of Ozmaroc, among others, that you will not leave until you have fathered an heir. I did think of the daughter, as well." He looked up at Estaldo. "Why is it a good idea?"

Oh, oh. Test time. The old fart wasn't going to make this easy. "A child or children of Kahlzistan would likely some day sit on both thrones. It would, if not stop, at least encourage a serious decrease in border raids. Free trade might increase, and it would likely lower the price of lumber and a few other commodities on our end and have a similar affect on theirs. It would make access to the famous colleges more open to the young people of Kahlzistan. It might make obtaining up to date information on that court a little bit easier."

The far door opened and Renaldo carried in a stack of papers. "I have the information you requested sir."

"Thank you Renaldo. Take a seat and we'll begin in a moment." The King turned back to Estaldo. "Good, for a summary. Now, what are the bad points?"

Mentally rolling his eyes, Estaldo continued his recital, glad he had planned this conversation. The old fart always pulled these pop quizzes. Estaldo's record was erratic at best. If it had grabbed his interest that day, he knew it well. But all too often the detail of it just bored him. He knew he had to learn it, and had every intention of it. But did it have to be today? "It would allow Ozmaroc's spies, who are devious enough on their own, easier access to Kahlzistan. It would shift balances of power with Marapal and Arbigahl, both of which have problems of their own to deal with. It could put us in an untenable position should Ozmaroc go after Marapal. It would allow easier access to the famous colleges for the young people of Kahlzistan."

Ah, he earned a satisfied smile with that last. Perhaps he would get through this after all. He lifted his eyes to meet Renaldo look and found it neutral. That was good, for Renaldo. "Finish your party plans, Estaldo. I leave the greeting of the Ambassador to you. We will talk again later." Estaldo hastily bowed and made his escape while the opportunity offered.

He strolled through yet more hallways, barely noticing the ornate trappings of the national seat of power, arriving soon to check in at the kitchens. One thing he had learned, growing up in the Palace. If you wanted something done, the best way was to tell the right servant, and get out the way. This had never kept him from being pressed into duty along with everybody else when needed. His father had seen to that. But a banquet was Cook's department, and he knew better than to try to tell her how to do it. He poked his head into the steam and amazing aromas and gave her the chance to yell at him for a minute. It always seemed to make her feel better, and her assistants always seemed glad to see him, smiling at him from behind her while she extolled her list of grievances for proper penance by him and appreciation of the efforts she was being put to. He kept his eye on the spoon in her hand and let her run her course, then went on his way again. The banquet would be, as always, excellent.

Patrick would have taken care of entertainment, from among his minstrel friends as usual. He hiked back to his suite. Patrick sat in the room at the entrance to the west residential hall. Scattered chairs and divans, comfortable and positioned under lamps invited conversation or games of chess or cards. Patrick glanced up from his book at the approach of the Prince. "Hey ugly. We going riding, or what?"

"Yeah. Definitely. I'll meet you at the stables after we change."

Estaldo had one more stop to make, checking in with the housekeeper. She had things well in hand, running down a dizzying list of problems and their pending solutions to him to prove it. He praised her, promised to arrange plenty of strong backs for her tomorrow after the noon meal for putting out the banquet tables and benches. He ducked out a side door and passed the mews to the back of the stables. Breathing deeply of the warm smell of horses he headed straight through to the front door, where Cook had mentioned the apple barrel was. The summer was far enough along for other fresh fruit now, so the last of them went to the stables. With a couple in his hand, he headed down the side corridor to the stallion boxes. A dark man with long dirty hair pulled back and tied in a leather thong looked up from mending tack at a table toward the back. "I was hoping that you would be coming today. They're a bit edgy and could use a run." Estaldo grinned. "So are we!" He moved on down to a box stall and his own Alsvider, a magnificent black. Patrick was in the stall across the way with Nonnus, his bay. Estaldo tossed him an apple. "Sweeten that beast up! Raulle is complaining about him again!"

"Hah! Not quite what he told me! Aren't Princes supposed to tell no lies, or something like that?"

Estaldo stopped dead and turned to face him, a stunned expression plastered on his face. "You grew up with me, right? Around politics?" He broke into a grin as Patrick obligingly laughed at him. He greeted Alsvider with a kiss on the center of the black head then gave his apple to the eager animal. "Alsvider. You great greedy beast. Shall we go out?" The horse backed up to let Estaldo enter his stall. He checked the horse over and took a moment to appreciate his sheer beauty. A finer horse had not been seen in his country. And from the comments of travelers Estaldo thought it likely that no finer horse existed anywhere.

Alsvider was a full seventeen hands and his jet-black color made him seem even larger. He was the only horse that made Nonnus seem inferior. They had been gifts to the prince from a rare delegation from the nomads in the deserts beyond the mountains to the east. There was no easy trade route with them, which made the desert horses extremely rare. Both Alsvider and Nonnus spent portions of their time serving stud duty. They didn't seem to mind!

Estaldo and Patrick led them out the back gate of the keep, mounted up and rode to the city wall where it circled behind the palace, and out into the royal parklands. The horses were as impatient as they were, and after a short trot they gave the horses their heads and just held on. The two stallions, trained for war not racing paced each other, slowly increasing speed to the full charge, stride for stride together. The great hooves pounded and the wind whipped their manes and hair together as the men crouched over the great necks, moving with them. After a while they slowed again, gradually resuming a walk down the shore watching the fishermen in their boats.

They stopped to let the horses nibble at some grass when they heard a voice from behind them. "So the two beautiful ones have come out to see the common folk." Turning towards the voice the two men saw a woman sitting on a roan stallion. It was one of Nonnus' get. The woman was good-looking though people would not call her pretty. Brown hair curled down past her shoulders and her brown eyes seemed to stare through a person rather than at them.

Estaldo sweeps his hat off in a mock bow to the woman. "Joanne. It is always a pleasure to see you. And thank you for the compliment."

"I was talking to the horses."

"You wound me."

"Not deep enough apparently. You still breathe." Her voice was musical, her tone light while she insulted him.

Estaldo gives Patrick an unsuccessful look to try to silence the laughter. "My dear. I breathe because you exist. Without you I would have no reason for life."

"A better argument for my demise could not be stated." She smiled sweetly.

Patrick, still laughing, rides to the woman and gives a well-received kiss on the cheek. "How are you Joanne? Well I hope."

"I am Patrick. And you seem well. How about you Prince Estaldo? Are you well today also?" Joanne has a way of saying Prince so that it seems a degrading title. Not insulting but definitely not complimentary. Estaldo doesn't like it but knows she does it to irritate him. He just wishes it didn't irritate him.

"I am fine Joanne. Has your father heard anything new from Marapal about the maresium?" Joanne's father was the major importer of maresium. If anybody knew what was happening in the Marapal mines Reid Bruton would. "My father has been away for a few days but returns tonight. I hope he will have news then. I'm sure his majesty will be the first to know."

"With your father away I trust you received the invitation to the ball tomorrow. I hope you will be attending. I will save a dance for you."

"Yes I got your invitation. I hope Patrick here will be singing."

"Of course!"

"I am? I don't remember putting myself on the bill. And I wrote it!" He looked puzzled.

Joanne laughed and waved her hand at them. "I will be attending with my father. If you wish to dance with me Prince Estaldo I will wear my wooden clogs to protect my toes. Good day gentlemen."

As Joanne rides off Patrick turned to Estaldo. "I don't think I like how she says gentlemen. Kind of grates on the nerves."

"Yes. It's the same when she says Prince."

"Well that doesn't bother me as much."

"Why not?"

"Because it's directed towards you, not me."

"Very funny Patrick." Estaldo smiled "We should go. You need to practice your Arbigahl songs."

********************************

A knock on the door brought Estaldo out of his comfortable sleep. "Yeah, what?" he asked groggily. The door opened and Cerix and Mansel entered, one carrying a basin with heated water. The Cerix walked to the window and pulled open the drapes. "You wanted to be woken early Prince. Is this early enough for you?"

"Yes. You did fine thank you. But you could have made early not quite so early." Estaldo got out of bed and stretched his muscular body. He washed his face and dressed in preparation for a workout. He stared out the window at the beautiful morning. "We have a busy day today. The castle will be a mad house. I, need you to do something for me, Cerix. Ride out and look for the Ambassador. I need you to get back to me in time so that I can ride out and greet them. Take some food with you. I'm not sure when they are expected. Also take these coins to Adelaide. She lives in the second farm on the right as you leave the city. You can't miss it. It's the one with all the flowers. Tell her that I would like a bouquet of flowers for the Ambassadors daughter and a single flower cut so that Tessia can wear it. She can cut them when she sees you ride back to the city so that they are fresh. I'll trust her judgment on the flowers. Mansel I'll be riding Alsvider out to greet the Ambassador. I need him cleaned and my fancy saddle prepared. Four guards in dress uniform. And check on the official honor guard, be sure they are alerted when Cerix comes in."

Cerix takes the coin purse. "Anything else, my lord?"

"No. That should be all."

"Thank you my lord, I shall be glad to be out of the castle for the day. The kitchen is particularly uncomfortable today. Good day." Mansel grimaced at him. Estaldo grinned thinking of the escalation from yesterday's already voluble tirade. Oh, well. All in a good cause. He'd see Caitlin later for her periodic venting.

Estaldo went to the barracks courtyard and began his stretching and warmed up. He started his katas, and was well aware when an older man arrived and stood watching him. The man was in excellent shape and carried himself with dignity. His military training was obvious as he moved to watch the prince from different angles. Estaldo finished his first set of exercises and stopped to look at the man.

"Very good Estaldo. I would say there are few who could match you."

The prince smiled. "Do you wish to try me today Orrin? Or are you feeling your age this early in the morning?" Orrin laughed and pulled off his jerkin, revealing a still well muscled body underneath. Estaldo was always amazed at the shape the old warrior kept himself in and hoped he could manage the same. Orrin pulled two wooden practice swords off the wall and tossed one to Estaldo. The prince sheathed his blade and leaned it against the wall. He swung the practice sword a couple of times and looked at the other man.

"Ready Orrin?" For answer the old warrior leapt at the prince, who barely blocked and ducked away from the unexpected attack. "Guess so." The two men circled each other, blades probing. After 15 minutes both are tired. Estaldo has several welts and the old warrior even has a welt on his side. Estaldo moved and tried a swing that would take out the old warrior's leg if the swords were real. Orrin stepped forward and was hit by the princes arms instead as he pushed Estaldo back while sweeping his legs. As the prince hit the ground he felt a sharp pain as Orrin punched the practice sword into his exposed chest.

"As I was saying Prince. There are only 2 in this country that can match swords with you. Don't forget that I am one of them. Your father hires the best. And I, being the captain of his personal guard, am the best." Orrin stepped back and grinned. He offered his hand to Estaldo and pulled him up. "Good day Estaldo. I have security matters to see to for the arrival of the Ambassador. Thank you for the workout."

"Thank you, master sir, for deigning to instruct so lowly a student as myself, master sir!" Estaldo bowed low, and swept his hand near his feet. Since he now won as many of their matches as he lost, he had room to give the sword master back some of what he dished out! It was a good feeling when Orrin grinned and swatted him on the arm before stepping in the door of the barracks, headed for his rooms above.

Estaldo finished his workout then went to get cleaned up. He dressed in velvets, his personal gray with the royal purple accenting. Maybe if he was already in his finery Caitlin would be a little nicer to him? It proved a vain hope, as he stood in the kitchen doorway, kitchen assistants grinning at him over her shoulders while Caitlin told him of every culinary problem of the last two years, which were absolutely not going to happen to this feast solely because of her hard work and attention and in spite of his lack of understanding of the true size of such an endeavor and his failure to properly appreciate the enormity of his requests. "Sir, the Ambassador is coming. Mansel is readying Alsvider as we speak. The flowers will be ready when you arrive." Cerix's voice at his shoulder was a very welcome rescue, as Caitlin's tirade turned into a shriek and a dive back into the preparations.

"Thank you Cerix." Estaldo took a deep breath to recover his wits from the tirade and the shriek, then headed out the door. Alsvider was ready in the courtyard. He rode through the streets with his guards and many people waved to say hello. He waved back and wished good day to all. After leaving the city behind they approached Adelaide's farm. She came hurrying out with a bouquet of flowers, stems wrapped in a cloth. The elderly lady also handed him a short cut flower that was the most beautiful that Estaldo has ever seen. The prince doesn't recognize the type but realized that he didn't have the time for a discussion with the nice but long-winded Adelaide. He thanked her and continued down the road.

A few miles out of town he stopped and waited for the Ambassador. He turned Alsvider to the side so that the Ambassador would see his magnificence as she approached. Wearing his blue and gold and with his sword strapped on, Estaldo was looking his very best, gorgeous to most women. The guards grinned a bit at his preening, and he shrugged at them. It was part of the job, after all!

He didn't have long to wait before the entourage came into view. It was extensive, a long train of pack laden mules behind the ladies, with a screen of guards, mostly women as well. Numerous servants of both sexes rode nearby. The head of the parade made its way to Estaldo's position on the road, as was proper for the foreign party approaching the local ruling party. The foreign guards reined in and the Ambassador approached. She stopped in front of Estaldo. "Good day Ambassador. I hope your trip has gone well. In a few more miles there will be rest, food, and drink to take away the pains of travel. This must be your daughter Tessia?"

Estaldo guided Alsvider closer to the second woman before him and held out the bouquet. "These are for you lady. Though incomparable to you they are the most beautiful in our land."

Tessia's dark eyes viewed him critically. It reminded him of the early days with Orrin. She motioned to a woman near her side. The woman nimbly kneed her horse forward to take the flowers from Estaldo. He handed her the single one, also. "For your sister, Lady." He smiled in the direction of the one that had to be Lobella by dress and position, but she stared resolutely away from him.

"Who is this man that speaks to us before acknowledgment?" Without waiting for a reply, Tessia turned to the ambassador, "Mother, am I to believe this to be our greeting after the days and effort spent in travel? Is there not enough regard for our country and station that we are greeted with no more than a servant bearing trivialities? There's not even a proper entourage to escort us to the city. And I must lower myself to join with such an uncivilized and backward kingdom?"

Estaldo backed Alsvider by reflexive surprise at her reaction. The Ambassador's horse turned between them and pushed Alsvider yet further away. The stallion aimed a bite at the pushy gray's rump and Estaldo quickly backed him yet further. This was going oh so well.

"Tessia! Curb your tongue!" The ambassador hissed, glaring at her daughter. She lowered her voice to a harsh whisper, but Estaldo caught pieces of the short conversation between the two women. He puzzled it into something like, 'Their way is different than ours. Remember your history and take pity. We have discussed the...changes and the sacrifices needed. It is your duty to your station and country. Now employ the wits I know you possess and I shall see if I can rectify a possible catastrophe in relations. This man did not provide a title in greeting, perhaps some sort of test. You have no idea who it is, although had you studied the portfolio, you would realize that he resembles the prince.' In a lighter tone she added, 'and if all men in this country are such magnificent specimens...'

Turning back to the man on the horse, Ophelia Drievt turned on all of her considerable ambassadorial charm. "My dear Sir," she began, voice weighted with an odd syrupy kindness, "please excuse our fatigue. The rest, food, and drink you promise come none too soon." A warm smile that didn't quite reach her eyes appeared. "Considering the scenery we've been privileged with and the flowers you bring, your country is indeed one of beauty. We are honored to be the guests of the royal family." Her head dropped a fraction, a tiny bow.

The ambassador motioned to a richly dressed servant behind her, just to the left. The servant's horse stepped forward precisely one step and the man formally intoned, "I present the gracious Lady Drievt and her daughters the Lady Tessia and the Lady Lobella." Estaldo's attention was invited to the Lady Tessia and then the finely dressed woman appearing on a gentle mare beside her. Was there a drop in tone when the Lady Lobella's name was given? Estaldo decided he had to have imagined it. After all, a servant in this society wouldn't dare offer a possible insult to a noble. The woman was mousy in appearance though it was hard to tell as her soft brown hair hung down around her face. She stared at her hands. The servant stepped back and the entourage waited expectantly.

"I apologize for my lack of etiquette. I am used to the people I meet knowing who I am," the prince says in a matter of fact way. "I am Estaldo Terra, Heir Prince of Kahlzistan. I recognize you and the ladies Tessia and Lobella from my briefings and my studies. You are welcome in my land, on behalf of myself and my father, King Ramone Kahl'Terres." He turns Alsvider and takes a place beside the ambassador. "If you are ready Ambassador Drievt, I will escort you to the city, where a more extensive greeting has been arranged." He glanced back at Tessia to meet a cold stare, with some element of surprise in it, as if there is something she just could not understand in his actions. He didn't know what it could be, he'd been perfectly polite. Anyway, she wouldn't be able to fault the welcome to come.

They politely engaged in idle chitchat as they ride. The ambassador asked questions here and there about such things as farmland and how it is managed, other goods and services of the country, and various wild creatures they had spotted along the way here. Estaldo found Lady Drievt aloof and slightly personally distant, yet commanding and knowledgeable, definitely worthy of respect. If only she wouldn't speak to him in that syrupy careful voice, as if she was trying to be nice to a child. Or a dog. He answered all the questions fairly well, finding himself actually grateful to his infuriating tutors. He ignored Tessia who was obviously unaccustomed to being ignored. She frequently interrupted them with comments designed to point up some imagined deficiency she observed. He explained each one to the Ambassador, enjoying turning her daughter's ignorance back on her while being perfectly polite. If she was stupid enough to criticize something she knew nothing about to somebody on his home turf, it wasn't his fault! Lady Ophelia looked increasingly angry, directing glances at her daughter that should have pierced the girl where she rode.

They approached Adelaide's farm and he finally turned to Tessia. "Lady Tessia. This is the farm from which your flowers came. The lady, Adelaide, will be pretending to work but I'm sure she will be watching us as we pass. She was most proud to supply your bouquet." Estaldo nodded toward Adelaide as they passed the farm and glanced back at Tessia. The woman rode as if at attention, the flowers were in her arms but not a glance was directed to the side. He fumed. This bitch was supposed to be his bride. Not if he could help it.

The Lady Lobella had been drifting farther back in the procession. She turned aside and approached Adelaide. Estaldo stopped Alsvider. The ambassador looked around, following his gaze and glared harshly at the young girl talking to Adelaide. "Lobella! Come away from there!" Mortified, Lobella caught up to the group. A hurt look flashed across her face before she resumed staring at her hands on the pommel of the saddle. Estaldo thought he saw a flick of the hand from the ambassador out of the corner of his eye. Two odd-looking male servants moved to ride by Lobella, one on each side. Lady Drievt turned her horse onward, "My apologies Prince Estaldo." The rest of the ride was silent, and blessedly short.

When they reached the city a more extensive greeting was indeed waiting. Knights lined the roadway to the city gates, and the street for a block inside. Sons and daughters of the nobility greeted them with flagons of cool drinks and damp cloths to refresh themselves with. The knights joined the column as they passed, the columns rolling back on themselves as they entered the city. Banners unfurled from the buildings along the route ahead of them. People waved and cheered from the side streets and buildings, and minstrels played in many balconies. Flower petals showered down on them. Estaldo smiled, pleased with himself. Tessia gazed around with her head held high, the image of her mother as the Ambassador took her due from the commoners. Only Lobella gazed around entranced, finally making her face visible. Estaldo decided she really wasn't bad looking, just so withdrawn she was hard to see. Anyway, at least somebody was enjoying his show besides himself and the people giving it! Then her eyes flashed across his and he saw her realize he was watching her. Her head dropped back down. He sighed.

Estaldo dismounts when they reached the palace and offered his hand to the ambassador. She looked slightly bemused and swung down on her own. He stepped back, kicking himself for forgetting the little things with their strange culture. He turned to the waiting servants. "Tell the King that Ambassador Drievt has arrived. Show the Ambassador and her people to their rooms." Let them get used to men giving commands! Estaldo smiled as he turned back to the ambassador. "Per your request, rooms have been made available to you for so long as it takes for you to arrange your embassy to your liking. When you are refreshed and ready to see the King there will be someone outside your door to take you to him." The ambassador gave Estaldo a polite forward nod, accompanied by a half smile and turned to the servant. He made himself accept the dismissal, not wanting to push it until conferring with his father. The King would accept no such slight and opportunity would come to put her in her place. Here in the bailey was not the place.

Returning to the horses Estaldo said, "Alsvider. Home." He watched as Alsvider walked around the building towarded the stables. He went looking for Patrick, heading for his friends rooms. He sent a servant to his rooms for his clothes, and for some water and towels. The door was unlocked so he walked in. Patrick looked up from the book he was reading. "Knock knock. Come in. Oh, good to see you Estaldo."

Estaldo flopped down into a chair opposite Patrick. "Sorry about my rudeness but I need your help. I am writing a poem for Tessia and I can't think of enough words that rhyme with BITCH." Patrick laughed. "Trouble in your marital bliss my friend?"

Estaldo sighed, "I foresee no bliss in my life if I am forced to marry this uppity little whore." A knock on the door interrupted them. Patrick glanced at him. "See how that knocking thing works? Come in." Mansel came in carrying clothes and bathing materials. Estaldo pushed himself out of his chair and let the body servant help him clean up and change clothes. Estaldo told Patrick of the meeting and the ride. Patrick listened attentively and chuckled. "One daughter likes to wander off by herself and the other is a stereotypical noble bitch. No offense meant."

"None taken Patrick. I was fortunate enough to have a friend take the uppityness out of me. Perhaps you could do the same for her. I'd pay you handsomely." Estaldo looked up hopefully.

"But your father would kill me. No thank you. I have an idea though. I'll have Seneea keep an eye on the other daughter to keep her out of trouble."

"Good idea! Any excuse to talk to Seneea is a good one! See you this evening." Estaldo, dressed in white with gold trim now, headed for the library. It was a good place to stay clean and easy to find when the time for the presentation came along.

Patrick went looking for Seneea. The maid was known through out the castle for her stubbornness and strong head. Hopefully she'll keep the daughter out of trouble or at least keep an eye on her. He found her checking inventories in one of the upstairs storerooms. Coming up to the doorway on the thick hall carpeting, he leaned against the frame to watch her appreciatively for a moment. He ran his eyes down the lovely mature figure that made even the staff uniform she wore seem becoming. It pulled snug across her breasts as she reached to an upper shelf to check the stock of clean linens, and he smiled.

"Master Patrick, did you wish something?" The voice made them both jump, Seneea whirling to catch his quick blush. Oh, well, might as well brazen it out. "Yes, Mistress Witherspoon. Please re-assign Seneea to the Ambassador's suite. The Prince wishes her specifically to tend to the younger daughter, Lobella." He paused for her expected response.

The old woman didn't disappoint him. "And since when does the Prince take to ordering my staff? What's wrong with the ones as have been assigned? Is it my department to run, or ain't it? We'll see about this!" She wandered on down the hall, grumbling to herself.

Patrick felt a bit of remorse for Estaldo and the fast talking he was going to have to do, but not a lot. "Ahem." Seneea laid a level stare on him, waiting for an explanation. The uniform stretched disconcertingly over her breasts when she stood with her hands on her hips, too. Tearing his gaze upward, he caught a glint of amusement in her eyes and suddenly felt much more at ease. "Seneea, Estaldo needs your help. The younger daughter of the Ambassador, Lobella, seems to have an interesting position among her mother's retinue, and has already shown a tendency to wander from them, if not very far. The Prince and I thought you might be able to keep an eye on her, keep her from any trouble. An incident with her now could have some major repercussions! The last thing Estaldo needs now is more repercussions!" He grinned at her hopefully.

"You boys are incorrigible, but it looks like maybe you're finally showing a little sense! I'll keep an eye on her." She put down the armload of linens she had set ready by the door while she worked and stepped up to him. "But I want payment." She moved a little closer, and Patrick swallowed hard. "Ah, what would that be, exactly?" Her hands came to rest on his arms, and she stepped closer yet. Her breasts were touching his chest and he could smell the honest clean working smell of her. She raised her face to his, reaching to whisper in his ear. Her hair smelled of cinnamon. "I want to ride on that beautiful horse of yours." She stepped back to look at his face.

"I think that can be arranged. Very soon!" He grinned at her, and she met his eyes and grinned right back. Yes, that ride would be very soon! Right after Trina left town again. Did her skirt sway just a little more than usual as she strolled down the corridor? No, it had to be all in his head. He shook it and made his own way down the hall. He headed eagerly for the rooms behind the ballroom.

The musicians and entertainers were assigned rooms near the public areas of the palace, for convenience and to keep them separated from the living quarters.. Here was the banquet hall, the grand ball room, the music room where guest performances were held, as well as sitting rooms for conversations and more private rooms for meetings and business. Amazing amounts of business took place at these affairs. Running them properly took space as well. Entertainment was assigned its own suite of rooms for props, costume, staging and practice. Patrick stepped around trees and shepherds' crooks, rocks and music racks, and piles of cases to make his way to the short hallway with private dressing rooms along it. Number 4 was locked and he rapped his knuckle on the smooth wood. "Who's there?" The voice is rich and smooth, and Patrick smiled. "The music director, come to collect his bribe!"

He heard the lock click and walked in locking the door behind him. She grinned and tossed her thick honey colored hair back, posing for him. Her short silk robe hiked up high on her hip. The belt was loose and the shadowed curve of her breast was visible as she raised her arms above her head, exaggerating the pose for his enjoyment. He reached out for the belt of her robe and pulled her to him, untying it as she stepped forward. She moved up to him, her curves seeming to bend to meet his hands as they moved under her robe. She inhaled, and he smiled at her habit of filling her lungs with his scent when they were together. He bent his head, lifting her hair out of the way to find her lips. They met his urgently, and he gave into the wild desire he always shares with Trina.

He helped her pull his clothes off, then he picked her up and sat her on the counter behind her. It's exactly the right height, as he knew well. He stepped up to her and placed the tip of his cock at her lips, then thrust himself into her in one smooth motion. She was already wet and ready for him, as he'd known she would be. She moaned and clutched him to her, legs going around his waist to pull him deeper, and mouth seeking his for a hungry kiss. He pushed even further into her, feeding on her tongue as he enjoyed the heat of her pussy. Then he drew back out and began a steady rhythm, in and out at the same speed, never pausing. She moaned and arched her neck and back, tipping her head out of his reach.

He dropped his mouth to her breasts, and one hand cups the right one, lifting it up to his mouth as his other arm supported her back. He drew her nipple and more into his mouth and savored the warm flavor, then he sucks on it, drawing hard. She groaned and he felt the walls of her pussy tighten on him. Her fingers wound through his hair, holding his head tight to her breast. He kept up the same steady rhythm and matched his suckling to it. Her hands suddenly pulled him off and over to the other her other breast, insisting he give it equal attention. He cooperated, thrusting into her steadily. He felt her begin to tighten down on him with every back stroke, trying to draw him in with each forward motion. Her legs added power to his own. He felt tension move through her as he pushed her closer to coming. Another stroke and then he stopped, pulled out of her and lifted her down.

He pulled loose from her arms and turned her against the counter. Then he guided himself into her from behind. She arched her back to raise her ass in the air, and tighten down hard on his cock as he moved in and out. He reached forward and grabbed a handful of her hair, pulling just enough to let her feel some tension. She began moaning with every thrust. She rocked her hips hard to put amazing pressure on the underside of his erection as he moved through her soft warm body. It tightened as he felt the bottom of her canal with the head of his cock, and milked him as he pulled out. She moved with him, moving her head from side to side to feel his grip on her hair. He reached forward with his right hand and eased his thumb into her mouth. She took it eagerly, laving it with her tongue, letting him feel what she'd do to his cock, if it wasn't already busy. He took it back from her well lubricated and straightened up, looking down at himself sliding steadily in and out of her.

He put his thumb on the small pink opening still visible and began massaging the ring of tight muscle he can felt there. She gasped and he felt her muscles pulse inside. She arched her ass even further, encouraging him, and after a moment he felt a loosening in that little ring. He worked the tip of his thumb into it, using a circular motion to encourage it to keep relaxing. His eyes follow her arm as she reached under herself to finger her clit. His thumb was into her now to the first knuckle, and she began to drive herself back on him. He smiled and obligingly picked it up the pace a little, his grip on her hair steady as he thrust hard into her pussy. His thumb moved in her ass at the same time. She cried out with each thrust, bucking harder and harder under him until she arched up, all her muscles spasming down on him. He waited the half beat until she relaxed then continued driving into her, making her thrash under him, seeking something to grip and pushing wildly to meet him. He held hard to his own response while she came, keeping her going with thrust after thrust. Finally he felt her motions become more controlled, and her cries decreased a bit.

His focus changed. He moved his hand from her ass to her hip and dropped her hair to grip her other hip. He steadied her as he drove into her for himself. She responded, meeting him squarely and angling to give him the best sensations as he entered and left her. "Yes, baby, come on now." Trina talked to him, encouraging him. "Oh yeah, I feel you swelling in me, getting even bigger. I like you deep inside me!" She arched her hips farther yet, allowing him another small bit of depth. She moaned with him, and kept talking. "Harder baby, I want to feel you explode in there. Yes, yes, oh, you're getting close! Give it to me!" Over the months he'd become convinced she really could feel his orgasm building, her words always mirrored his sensations. He held her hips hard now, pistoning into her again, again, again and it was there, swelling through him. She yelled with him and clamped down on him again, coming as he did and pushing back to him, making him move to drive forward once more, and again. Then his arms went around her and he leaned into the counter with her, his last couple movements gentler aftershocks. He felt tremors run through her and smiled as they brought answering shivers from him.

She wiggled under him and he stepped away, sliding out of her. She went to the wash stand and passed a wet towel to him while she grabbed another. "Patrick, it is always so good to see you!" Her blue eyes twinkled as she smiled at him. They'd been sharing music, among other things, for about a year and a half now, when she was in town and was available. Knowing she'd be here for the royal banquet, he'd arranged a private dressing room to surprise her. There were only a couple and they were quite a status symbol among her crowd. They talked music for a while, and planned to meet later that evening, when both their duties were done. She gave him some interesting snipet sof information from other places around the realm, too. Then Patrick continued about his business, arranging the rest of the entertainment, although the other arrangements were not nearly so enjoyable to make!

Estaldo stood with Patrick watching the dancers at the ball. It had been an interminable evening. Estaldo and Patrick's preparations had gone off without a hitch, despite the frequent lectures and tirades from those involved. Tessia had blossomed among the female society of Kahlzistan. It seemed to be only the males that she couldn't be civil to. They had danced the obligatory number of dances, prescribed by one of her mother's servants according to some book of protocol that seemed to be somewhat rigid and out of date. She seemed to treat it as much like a duty as he did, and seemed offended when he asked others to dance. He didn't think it was because he was dancing with others, but because he was inviting them! She's going to have a very hard time fitting into Kahlzistan life, Estaldo thought, as he watched another would be dance partner quail at her look when she saw him approach.

Finally he saw one of the noble women approaching, leading her nephew, a well built lad in training with his father in diplomacy. The boy bowed low, and the daughter of the ambassador nodded her consent to dance with the unfortunate lad. After that she was kept occupied, the women of the court finally putting their book learning into practice regarding Arbigahlan customs. Estaldo sighed. "I need some air, Patrick. I'll be in the garden for a few minutes." Patrick gave his friend a sympathetic look and stepped sideways to cover his retreat. "I'm the one that has to get up and sing to all of them!"

Estaldo wandered through the gardens, finding his way around patterned shrubs toward the back, where trees were allowed to grow a little more wildly and bushes grew up to hide a small grotto, with an even smaller waterfall and pool. It was one of his favorite retreats on the palace grounds. He turned the final corner and stopped, hearing somebody within. After a moment, he identified the sound of sobs, very feminine ones. He peaked around silently to ensure she was alone, and found a girl seated on the bench, her back to him, face and hands buried in her lap as she cried. He cleared his throat and stepped out onto the path. The figure jumped up and spun, and he was startled to realize he was looking at Lobella, the second daughter of the Ambassador.

She gazed at him with terrified eyes and looked quickly around. Her eyes widened even further as she realized she was trapped. He spread his hands instinctively in front of him, to show his peaceful intentions. What was this girl doing out here bawling in the bushes? "It's okay, I don't mean to scare you. I won't hurt you. What's wrong?" He moved carefully and slowly to one end of the long bench and seated himself, hands peacefully in his lap. She glanced once at the now open path, then seemed to collapse into herself.

"It wouldn't matter if you ravished me, Prince." Her eyes glinted briefly through her hair as if she checked quickly to see that he wasn't doing just that. He wondered what stories of Kahlzistan men she had heard. Judging from the stories he'd heard about Arbigahlan women, they were likely to be doozies. "You should return to your party Prince. I am not worthy for your presence. Even a male's presence. I apologize for disgracing us earlier today with the flower seller. I never meant to cause a problem, I just wanted to know if she'd planted them herself. Mother is furious with me for that. She will be furious that I'm not at the party, too. Oh, why couldn't I have just stayed home, where they were used to me?" She burst into tears again.

Estaldo stared at her in a quandary. He didn't dare touch her, as his instincts told him to do. "It was no disgrace, my lady. It was the only honest thing I saw done out there! I don't know why your mother is upset, but I certainly am not. Come, dry your tears. You are quite lovely in that dress, you should repair yourself and join us. I'm sure some music would help your spirits."

She slowly calmed as he continued to talk. "Your music is lovely. I do like listening. But the people are all so strange. I don't know who I may speak to and who not, or what to say. I tried to study what they gave me, but it just wouldn't seem to stay right in my head. All I ever wanted to do was have children and raise them, in some nice little estate where I should be left alone to be me."

"That sounds like a very nice goal, my lady." She gasped as she realized she spoke aloud. She was used to speaking more or less to herself around the male slaves, but they never answered. A brief smile flit across her face and she reached to take the handkerchief he offered her, half wet from the waterfall.

"My mother will never allow it. She expects me to grow up and begin learning to manage some portion of the family estates. I am the eldest daughter, and expected to inherit. I hate it though! And I'm not very good at it." Estaldo watched her face blush yet again as she realized how much she was telling him. He offered her his arm when she was done cooling her face with the cloth. He led her back toward the balconies, where he can see Patrick, still lurking in the shadows outside the door. Just as they approach, Joanne stepped up to his friend. Too late to back out now.

"Patrick, my dear! Where is, oh 'Taldo!" She caught sight of him, and of who was on his arm. She dropped a quick curtsey.

"Hello, Joanne." He turned to Lobella. "Lady Lobella, this is Joanne Bruton, daughter of one of our leading men. Lobella looked briefly confused, but gamely smiled at Joanne. "I am pleased to meet you."

Joanne's eyes passed over the withdrawn girl once and she drew her away, shooting dirty looks at Estaldo over her shoulder as they go. "What did I do now?" Estaldo gave Patrick a wounded look. Patrick smiled back at him and shrugged. "Does it matter?" Shaking his head with a grin, Estaldo caught sight of the King. His father signaled him to meet in the side room. "Oops, gotta go. I wonder what's up now?" Patrick shrugged and left to arrange for the next set of entertainment, a performance troop up the hall in the cleared banquet room, for those who enjoy such things. The orchestra continued to play in the ball room.

Estaldo made his way around through exterior corridors to the side room. It was nearby, as a room always was, but it isn't always good for a group of people to suddenly leave the party at once, headed the same direction. Let the gossips and spies work a little harder for their stories. He found his father seated, hot robes of office open and draped off his shoulders onto the chair. He was studying a rod. It was smooth, appeared to be a dark wood, about a foot long. The king looked up at Estaldo and pointed the rod at the fireplace, empty now. "Fire," the Kings says in a normal tone of voice. A ball of flame shot out of the slender rod and blasted into the fireplace, causing a backdraft that ruffled their clothes.

Estaldo opened his mouth, closed it again, opened it, and still found nothing to say. Magic! It had to be! But even in the bedtime stories magic hadn't been around in 500 years! But what else could it be? He stared at his father, seeing something in his eyes he'd never seen before. Uncertainty. It shook him like the fireball hadn't. "This changes everything and nothing. You are right, we must visit our neighbors, in person, and soon. But now more than ever it is imperative that the succession be secured. You will marry the ambassador's daughter, then you will ride for Ysalor to see what you can learn about this." The King's voice was final. Estaldo mouth opened to protest anyway, then he stops. A thought struck him and he took a second to ponder it, turning it this way and that in his mind. "Yes, father," he finally said slowly. The king's head came around in surprise, at the agreement and at the strange tone. Renaldo looked at him sharply. "I will marry the ambassador's daughter, but I will marry Lobella, not Tessia."

He watched his father's face darken, then hesitate. He held his breath as his father thought it over. "I can't blame you for that choice, in all truth. I haven't seen much of this Lobella, but Tessia would scare any man out of the wedding chamber. I'll talk to the Lady Drievt. It may be possible." Renaldo said nothing, and turned back to his interminable books. Estaldo left the room, sending in a page. A moment later he saw the boy running toward the ballroom. He returned via his previous circumspect route and found Patrick dancing with the lovely but snide young woman who chased him at every party.

Estaldo approached Joanne, who still had Lobella in tow. "Lady, might I request of you a favor? Would you be so good as to ask this lovely young woman if she would be so kind as to dance with me?" He indicated Lobella with his glance, and enjoyed the muted amusement in Joanne's look. Lobella, head down, consented and he led her out on the floor. It was a sedate melody, perfect for reassuring the woman. He guided her through the steps expertly. "My Lady, it is considered good form here to look at your dance partner."

Her head slowly rose and she actually had the ghost of a smile on her lips. "My Lady, this may shock you a bit, but I believe you should hear it first from me." Her eyes looked questioningly at him, and he took a moment to organize his thoughts. "You know that one of the reasons you are here is that I'm to marry your sister?" She nodded, her fine brow creasing slightly in puzzlement. They whirled a couple more turns to the music, and he tried again. "Lady, in our land, it is customary for those who are not princes and princesses, or high nobility, for a man to choose a girl he likes, and to court her. He will bring her flowers, take her for picnics, and escort her to parties. When they are sure they are good together, he asks her father for permission to marry her, then he asks her. She has the right to say no, but at this point they usually know their minds well enough that it doesn't happen very often. For us, that chance is rarely given. It has been a source of contention between me and my father for some time."

He realized he was wandering, and took a deep breath. She still watched him, curiosity on her face, something he doubted he would ever see on her sister's. That decided him and he turned her out one of the tall doors onto a porch. He stopped, but kept his arms on hers. "Lobella, my father is now asking your mother for permission for me to marry you. Not your sister, you. I want to ask you first. Live here and you can have as many babies as you want. I will do that for you, and do no more to you than you wish me to. You can live quietly as long as you wish, I can arrange your own estate for you and the children, or whatever you wish. Just save me from your sister!" He dropped to one knee. "Lobella, will you marry me?"

She stared at him. The color drained from her face. Then she did something he had heard of but never actually seen a woman do. She fainted. If he hadn't already been on one knee before her he never would have caught her. Of course, that's when Patrick stepped out. "Ah, I don't remember that being part of the plan, boss. What'd you do to her, smile?"

"No, I proposed, you idiot! Now help me get her up!" They lifted her to a nearby bench and arranged her. She was beginning to rouse as they hastily stepped back and took up properly concerned positions before her, footsteps sounding behind them. "My Lady, are you well? Should I summon somebody for you?" He gazed earnestly at her, willing her to pull herself together. She looked past him, and her eyes widened. Then she looked at him. She searched his eyes, looking for what he didn't know.

"What is this! Lady Lobella, what's wrong?" his father's voice, just behind him, then skirts swirled beside him where his eyes were still locked with Lobella's.

"Stand up, Lobella. There's nothing wrong with her, Your Highness. I will have her attended to. You can see my point, however. The Prince must have a strong woman beside him. Tessia is much more of the right kind."

"No. I will marry Lobella, if she'll have me, or nobody." Estaldo stood, the wide dark eyes still locked on his. He tore loose from them and turned to the Ambassador. "Lady, I am sorry to cause you this embarrassment, but I do believe that this is best for all. Tessia is much more the type to succeed you in your business. Lobella is exactly the type to bare and raise royal children. And I'm sure Tessia can find somebody much more to her taste back home." He glimpsed Tessia over her mother's shoulder, young face a mirror of the older. They were studies in frozen astonishment, unable to decide on indignation over one of them being refused by a man, anger at having their plans disrupted, or simple amazement that Lobella was at the center of it all. He realized Lobella still hadn't spoken and he turned back to her.

She looked again in his eyes, then took his offered hand and stood, albeit somewhat shakily. "I accept your proposal, my Lord. I will marry you."

Chapter 2

"They had better not harm her, that's all!" Estaldo scowled at his tankard. He'd been in a foul mood all day. Dragging him out to the tavern hadn't improved it, but showed promise of ending it. A couple more drinks ought to do it. He took a long swig of the dark bitter ale and let the tankard fall to the table with a little more emphasis than strictly necessary.

Patrick and Trina traded glances across the table. "They won't hurt her, 'Taldo. They'll probably brow beat her quite a bit, but my guess is she's grown up with that, and now there's an end in sight. She'll hold up." Trina tried to encourage him. She knew that Patrick was amused at the Prince's sudden and very obviously sincere concern over his betrothed. They both thought it was a good thing for him. It wasn't likely to be true love or anything, but they would be married. It was good to see his honest concern for the girl. "I think your lady has strengths she doesn't have any idea she has."

Estaldo raised his head and looked at her, reading her eyes. She meant it. He sighed, sat back in his chair, and decided to make an effort to be part of the world for what was left of the night. The wedding was two weeks off, and he could drink himself through all of it. It was actually amazing how quickly his father had been able to arrange it. He suspected the staff had had the plans firmly in place for several years now. The Arbigahlans were insulted, of course, but still how insulted could you publicly be when your daughter was going to be Queen one day? No, they wouldn't dare harm her.

"Have your people noticed the changes in the waterfront?" Trina asked them. Ah, time for the serious stuff. Trina brought them all sorts of interesting news, from time to time. "The businesses have cleaned up. They're still dives and whorehouses, but not so dangerous, at least for the locals, as they used to be. New faces buying out the old owners. Nothing obvious, until you look at it coming back from a tour."

She took a pull from her drink. "A strange thing, too. The new owners, they all have people working for them, of course. They hire local, but they brought in outsiders, too. Almost all of them. And these outsiders, they act funny. They're, I don't know, subdued. They don't talk much. They do what they're told without the usual lip you get from tavern wenches. They seem afraid, although they seem to be treated well. I don't know what's going on, but something's up."

Estaldo looked at Patrick. "Damn."

Patrick's teeth gleamed as he smirked at him. "I'll gather up some of the lads for a tavern crawl. Orrin might even enjoy a trip to the docks. You can stay here nice and clean for the in-laws! Don't worry, we'll get along fine without you. You can just go pick flowers or whatever you do to court a foreign lady and her two daughters!"

Estaldo growled at him. The blond who came over and sat on his lap was a welcome distraction, and he buried his face in her breasts. "Ah, my dear, make me forget it all, if only for an hour!" It was hard to be dramatic smothered in firm cloth covered tit, but he tried anyway. She laughed, which did interesting things against his cheeks. He gathered her up and stood, face only then coming out of her cleavage enough to spot the stairs and head for them, only a little unsteadily.

"Well, not in love. But at least he found somebody he cares about. The way the King's been pushing him, he could have had it a lot worse!" Patrick watched Estaldo fondly. Trina's hand traveled up his thigh and suggested that it was time for them to head upstairs as well. He agreed.

Estaldo woke the next morning, early it felt like. His mind trolled over the conversation of the night before as he watched the blond next to him, sleeping. The sheet had slid down barely covering her bottom where she lay half on her side, half on her stomach, facing away from him. Her curves were nice for eyes to slide along. He may not be able to go tavern crawling for information, but he could go records crawling. Not nearly as much fun.

He let his hand follow his eyes. It slid nicely along the curves, too. She turned a bit in her sleep, welcoming his touch. His hand slid around to cup her soft belly, just enough padding to feel plush and comfortable. That's how he always felt with this one. Comfortable. He let his mouth trail down her spine to the top of her ass. He bit her gently where her thigh met the smooth globe of her bottom. She gasped a bit, then slowly turned over, stretching a bit as she woke. He let his mouth trail over her hip as she turned, and into her fur.

She sighed and her hands wound through his hair. He shifted his position on the bed and began lapping at her, lazily enjoying the morning. He hoped Lobella would like this. The thought made him freeze for a second. Then he felt the girl's hand on his morning hard cock, and the thought went away again. What was her name, he wondered. Her clit grew rapidly under his tongue and he laved it, encouraging the perky little thing. Oh yes, Berna. He had no idea how a tavern wench kept her hands so soft, but ah whatever she did he was grateful for! They traveled over him and he forgot everything but her taste and feel.

She was panting now, and rolled a little toward him. He felt the warmth of her mouth descend over him, wet and slippery as she eagerly went down on him. Her hips rocked in his arms and he knew she was close. He moved back and plunged his tongue into her, moving it around the walls of her canal, around and around. She groaned and began sucking hard on him, guiding him along the roof of her mouth and to the back of her throat, deliberately and steadily in and out. It was incredible how she never broke her suction. Her tongue wrapped around him randomly as she moved, it never failed to drive him crazy. It was all he could do not to drive his hips into her, but he knew she did a better job on her own. He moved his tongue back to her clit and began working it hard.

She got a few more strokes in on him before she began losing her rhythm. A few more seconds and she was moaning around him, her attention lost to her coming orgasm. Her moans grew into cries and she was bucking against him, hands clawing into his skin wherever they landed as she thrashed. Berna wasn't subtle, but she was enthusiastic! She screamed and went rigid under him. He kept at her until she relaxed a bit, then pulled away from her. He turned around on the bed and climbed between her legs, lifting her knees to kneel before her. He didn't wait but pressed forward, her ankles coming up around his shoulders as he plunged into her heat.

A groan came from deep inside of him and he began fucking her, long hard strokes. He closed his eyes and listened to her breathing with his rhythm, a breathless moan with each stroke. He leaned forward on his arms and pressed in deeper letting his body set the rhythm. Her inner walls slid against him, the feeling stronger with each stroke. Her eager cries began escalating again, and he moved a bit faster, but only a bit. He kept it up, watching her slow climb towards her next eruption. He liked mornings, when he felt he could go on forever sometimes! Speaking of which, he wasn't ready to come yet, and this was getting close.

He stopped and turned over, lifting her over him to sit on top. She didn't waste any time but grabbed his erection and sat on it. She rocked forward coming almost off of him and using the motion to bend down him. Her blond hair draped over their faces as she gave him one deep and urgent kiss before rocking back down on him and beginning to ride him. She picked up close to the same rhythm and stroked him, her strong and well practiced inner muscles tightening and loosening as she moved.

He reached up to her melon shaped breasts and lightly massaged them, thumbs and index fingers caressing the nipples. She ducked her head and turned to kiss his wrist, tongue tracing toward his palm. He squeezed her nipples harder and she cried out, rocking her head back on her neck and riding him hard. He rose on one arm to take one breast in his lips. The nipple and aureole filled his mouth and he suckled on it, hard like she liked it. She groaned and wrapped one arm around his head, holding it tight to her. She drove herself down hard on him and he sucked on her at each thrust, then changed breasts. She was getting noisier again and he laid back to grab her hips. He began driving up into her from below, helping her own movement with his arms. Soon she was screaming again and her pussy clenched around him, and again, and again. He kept plunging into her, pushing her through another orgasm.

Now he thought he was about ready for his turn. He grabbed a couple big pillows and stacked them up. "On your knees, my dear. I want a clear shot at you!" She smiled and leaned over the pillows, shifting herself off of him. He rose behind her and spread her legs. Her furry blond quim glistened with her moisture, her shapely soft bottom framing it invitingly and he lifted his cock to accept. He grabbed her hips again and rocked forward, watching his smooth pole sliding deep inside of her. He began a steady beat, his thumbs massaging her cheeks as he fucked her. It was good, oh sweet Saint of Sluts it was good!

Berna was moaning again, the woman was truly insatiable, for a whore! He slid his right hand across the swell of her buttocks and began massaging the little pink ring in the center. She gasped and pushed back encouraging him. He reached between them and brought her moisture up, lubricating her between steady strokes. He worked his thumb in circles until he felt the ring relax, then slid it in to the first joint. She jerked her head up, blond waves spilling across her back. "Yes, aah, yes, fuck me, 'Taldo, harder!" She shoved herself back against him, crying out with each stroke and he obliged her, driving into her in fast hard strokes, thumb moving in her ass with each one. He felt her spasm, her sphincter locking and pussy clamping down on him and this time he let himself go with her. He pulled out of her ass to grab her hip again and slammed into her, her body pulling him into his own explosion. He yelled with her, and felt his come jet out, filling her with even more warmth from deep inside him. Another stroke, another and one more, then he leaned forward to support himself on his arms, still deep inside her. He kept moving for a few more softer strokes, Then relaxed, half over her, half on the pillows.

After a few seconds, he slipped out of her and rolled to the side to collapse on his back. "That's a workout worthy of Orrin! Woman, you may be the death of me at a young age."

"Oh, and will you be back to see me when you're safely married, my lord?" She smiled winsomely at him, butt still in the air over the pillows, head flat on the mattress. "Or will you be faithful to your timid little bride?"

"Timid is it? Rumor flies fast in this town! She will suit me well as Queen, I think. It is an arranged marriage, however, and I think we already have an understanding." He rolled toward her and planted a smack on her lips and sat up to plant another one on her left cheek. The one still propped up in the air. Then he slapped it.

She shrieked and rolled off the far side of the bed to her feet. He chased her into the bathing room.

Estaldo sneezed. "A pox on these records!" He sneezed again and gathered his notes. A lot of beach front property had changed hands lately, but it seemed that each place went to somebody different. All the names seemed to be local, as far as he could tell. They'd all paid reasonable prices for the taverns, inns and stores along the river docks. Where was all the money coming from he wondered. No way to tell that from these piles of record books. Enough, he thought as he sneezed again. He nodded to the clerk and kicked the stool leg of his guard to rouse the man from his nap by the door.

They strolled down the long corridor of the State Hall of Records and out into the afternoon sun. The plaza was busy, the market on the far side boisterous with barkers crying their wares and everybody else trying to get a word over them. He wandered that way, turning up the street of silversmiths before entering the market proper.

Watching the window displays as he walked, looking for a jeweler whose work he liked right. Finally he turned into the shop of a man whose work showed a skill in filigree with flower patterns worked into it. The Prince spoke to the man about a full set of matching pieces suitable for a princess. The silver would show nicely against her dark skin and hair, and the blue of the finest sapphires to rival her eyes. The man promised the work before the wedding, putting aside all current projects to created the Prince's wedding gift to his bride. Estaldo purchased a smaller token, the broach that had caught his eye to begin with, and slipped the small velvet pouch into his own belt pouch.

Back to the palace he wandered then, to find a summons waiting for him. He sighed and headed for the King's office, leaving the guard to his own devices once they entered the grounds. The palace had an air of excitement to it, the royal wedding permeating the very air. 'Taldo was ready for it to be over already. He entered the office after a knock on the door and found his father as always bent over a pile of paper. He looked up and set down the current sheet down with relief.

"'Taldo. Today I sympathize with your dread of royal duty, truly. Come, let's walk a bit. I need to move these old joints a bit." Estaldo laughed. His father was far from an old man. The Prince had had welts enough from him on rare exchanges with practice swords.

"You need a girlfriend, father!" The King aimed a mock blow at him and Estaldo ducked on his way through the door out to one of the palace gardens. This one was planted in formal beds, kept trimmed low. It allowed conversation with no chance of being overheard. They strolled down the gravel paths and Estaldo related to his father what Trina had told them, and what he himself had found with his afternoon in the dusty record books.

The King looked at him with mock amazement. "You did what? Where's my son, and what have you done with him, you impostor!" His father laughed, a sound he realized he heard entirely too rarely. "I'll have Renaldo see what he can dig up on any new money flowing into the city. It must be coming up river from Verrainda. I'll send a message to Endorin. See if he's noticed anything in his city. In the meantime, we have a spy in the palace."

"No. Really father? I never would have thought!" The King scowled at him, and he straightened his face. "What have you found, father?"

"A man was caught leaving the palace with a group of tourists. The guard saw him join the group at the last minute and pulled him aside for questioning. He was carrying notes on the intimate doings of yourself and Patrick. I'm afraid it wasn't very flattering. I was tempted to let him go, just to encourage the recipient to underestimate you." It was the King's turn to grin at his son, for a moment. "The man was unaware of who his contact is, or of where the information would go. He was told only to come to the palace on certain days, check a certain urn in a side hall for a message, and deliver it to another drop. We'll try to track it, but it's unlikely we'll get far."

The King stopped and aced his son. "Be careful, 'Taldo. We both know that you can't be caged in the palace, and this kind of thing is a fact of our position, but be careful!"

Estaldo saw the honest concern on his father's face and nodded. "The spy must be somebody close to me. But who? My personal staff has been with me for years! The palace guard are born and bred here. Who would spy on me and Patrick? And what for? I mean, do they have something specific in mind, or is this random information gathering?" The King nodded to each point. "I'll talk to Patrick when he's sober again tomorrow. He and Trina are going out for a good time tonight!" Estaldo didn't elaborate, knowing his father would probably forbid the plans if he knew what they intended. "They'll take along a few guards, I'll make sure of it." They would, and they would use care, too. He realized this bothered him quite a bit. Who could it be?

"Well, back to the desk for me. What are you up to now?" King Ramone turned them back toward the door, reluctantly.

"I have a small gift for Lobella. I'm a bit worried about her. They won't let her out of the Embassy Suite before the wedding. Seneea is keeping an eye on her, but it must be hard for her. The maid says they lecture her all day. I hope these small gifts keep her spirits up a bit, knowing that she will be leaving them soon. I wonder if we could plan a series of events that they would be required to attend, just to get her out of those rooms occasionally?"

"A generous thought, son. I'm pleased you managed to find somebody you can care for. I know I've pushed you hard, as King I have no choice. But I did sympathize underneath. I'm happy for you. Plan what you wish, I'll approve it. The Merchant's Annual Dinner is in two days. Perhaps an invitation to that, approached as an introduction to our leading citizens would be a start. The people must get to know their new Princess."

"I have a few ideas. I'll talk to Joanne, too. Perhaps the women can do something. They get farther easier with these Arbigahlans. I'll invite her to dine tonight and run it by her. Now I'm off for a work out. I have to clear all this thought from my head! It simply isn't accustomed to it!"

Estaldo pulled at his collar again. The problem with planning a series of affairs formal enough to force the Arbigahlans' attendance, was that he had to dress up and attend as well. He caught Lobella's eye behind her mother and winked. Lady Ophelia didn't see him, talking to Baroness Whithurst. But Tessia did and scowled. She turned in front of Lobella and seemed to be talking rapidly to her. He caught Lady Whithurst's sidelong glance at him as the Ambassador paused to check on her daughters, and suddenly he'd had enough.

He strolled through the dancers to the group. "Ambassador Ophelia, may I have the honor of a dance with your lovely daughter, my intended?" He bowed before her, all courtesy. Lady Whithurst dropped a dignified curtsey at his approach.

The proud Ambassador looked down at him before nodding her head to him stiffly. "My apologies Prince Estaldo, but it is not proper for a man to dance with his bride before the wedding." She began to turn away, but he was having none of it, not this time.

"Lady Whithurst. Would you excuse us for a moment, please? I find I need a word with our lovely Ambassador." She curtsied deeply to him, and he thought he saw a glint of amusement in her eyes as she and her silver hair drifted away. The matronly woman had been active in politics since long before he was born, and had seen more than one Arbigahlan Ambassador come and go in the male ruled Kahlzistan.

"Lady Ophelia. You have been welcomed to our court as Ambassador, and as such I am sure you have been adequately briefed as to our relative stations." He waited, staring down at her without the slightest tilt to his chin. He would not give her even the hint of a bow again. Not for a long time. She met his eyes for a long moment, then her gaze swept the room. She seemed to weigh her options, then reluctantly bent her knees into an unaccustomed curtsey. He let his eyes move to Tessia, who watched with a startled look on her face. Her expression hardened, then her mother looked up at her, and she too attempted a curtsey, her face a frozen mask.

Lobella, exposed to his view once more, dropped a much more graceful dip and he stepped around her sister to offer her his hand. He guided her around them once more before speaking. "You may rise. In this land, where you have chosen to come, it is not improper for a man to dance with his affianced. It is expected. Lady Lobella will be Queen here. She must be respected by her people. I expect her to be loved by them as well. Therefor, she must be seen to be worthy of respect and affection, from the beginning. You will no longer closet her in your rooms. She will begin learning the Palace and how her new home functions. If you have not taught her what she must know from you already, then you are simply too late. A servant will call for her in the morning. She will be ready to begin learning her new place at that time."

He walked her away from the group and turned her into his arms to begin the next dance. "Whew! Do you think I impressed them at all?" He smiled down at her, and heard a nervous giggle escape her lips. "Do you remember our last dance Lady? I told you it was customary to look at one's dance partner, did I not?" He spoke gently to her and gave her a soft smile when she looked up at him.

"I feel as if I've been rescued from the jaws of death, your Highness. I hope I will be worthy of your trust in the duties you assign me." She looked truly concerned, and he hastened to reassure her.

"You won't be asked to do anything terrible! The palace pretty much runs itself. I will come up with things to get you out of those rooms, though. You must learn your way around the palace, and begin arranging your rooms to your satisfaction. We shall have a large suite in the royal wing, and you shall do as you wish with the garden outside, and raise babies to your heart's content. You will be Princess, and then one day Queen, Lobella, and may do as you wish! You need fear nobody, and obey only my father the King once we are wed. Only another week, my Lady, and you will be my Lady in truth! Does that please you?"

"Truly it does, my Lord. It is more than I ever dreamed." She ducked her head, shy again. "Do I truly please you, my Lord? It is so strange to think of pleasing a man. It is simply never a consideration in my land. Have patience with Mother. She means only the best for us and Arbigahl. You have no idea how strange it is, coming here."

"You do please me, Lobella. I too, am getting more than I thought possible in you. I expected my father to wear me down and arrange a wedding with some harridan with a title that I would have to bed somehow for long enough to get an heir. You are no harridan, my Lady." She didn't answer him, but the dance was over. He walked her to the open windows of the small ballroom they were in. The Brutons had kindly thrown this ball, another in the suddenly crowded season. Joanne winked at him as Patrick swung her around in the first steps of the next more spirited number.

"I fear you will be disappointed in my bed, Your Highness." Strangely, she showed no embarrassment at this subject. "I had no interest in the bed slaves that should have taught me of such things, and my sister despairs of me. She tries to tell me what to expect and what to do, but it just sounds so, so, coarse! I'm afraid I'm still virgin, my Lord. I thought that you should know, and I will not protest if you wish to change your mind about wedding me."

He stared at her, stunned. "Lobella. I, we, I mean..." He cleared his throat and wished the rush of heat to his face would go away. He must be red as a beet. "First, I'm Estaldo. We are to be wed, and you should begin to relax around me! Second, such a thing in this land is regarded as a gift, something to be treasured. You offer me your virginity on our wedding night, and you honor me beyond words. You need not fear, I will not be changing my mind."

She smiled up at him, meeting his eyes squarely for the first time since he proposed. He found himself lost in their blue depths as she let herself trust him once more. "Estaldo," she whispered, then stepped away from him to return to her mother. His heart stopped for an infinite second.

The Ambassador sent one more glare his direction, then she and her entourage headed for the door, stopping to pay their respects to Joanne and her father on the way out. The volume suddenly rose as people began discussing the evening. His actions would surely be all over the city by morning. He thought that might actually be a good thing. It was time he began asserting himself a bit.

Patrick stepped up beside him. They had learned little on their drunken night on the river docks. The name Teldrine came up frequently in stories, and everything Trina had told them was true, but the pattern wouldn't seem to come together. Patrick thought perhaps the servants were ex slaves, and Trina agreed, but they learned nothing definite.

Word had come from Marapal, though. The Crown Prince Byock was missing, possible taken by this same pirate, Teldrine. Problems in the mines continued, too. The price of maresium continued to climb, making marsteel a valuable commodity indeed. He wondered who had invested heavily in the metal recently. The magic rod weighed on his mind, too. He began to understand why his father looked so tired recently. Things were slipping all over. He wondered what was going on in Ozmaroc, just to complete the picture.

"Well, well. The Prince cometh. 'Bout time. I thought you were going to burst with the being nice to the mother-in-law bit." Patrick brought his thoughts back to the ballroom, now empty of any desire of his to be there. He made a face at Patrick and the two headed for their hosts to make their departure.

"Feeling your crown tonight, Your Most Gracious Highness and Mightiness?" Joanne dropped a deep and extravagant curtsey to him. Patrick snickered.

"Joanne!" Reid Bruton stared at his daughter, aghast. "Your Highness, I'm sorry, I don't know why she would act so! Joanne, stand up immediately!"

"It's all right, Ser Bruton. Joanne has a way of keeping my head from swelling, except occasionally in pain." He swept her an equally dramatic bow. "Lady, if I may stretch the term. Your public display is shadowed only by my own, and is approximately as useful. Good night!"

He winked at her father and strode out, picking up his augmented guards at the door.

"Just how useful do you think that was?" Patrick asked.

"I have no idea. But I feel better." He grinned and mounted Alsvider for the ride back to the palace. Only one week to go, and he had gotten her out of the rooms for part of each day. He hoped.

The expected summons was waiting for him when he got back to the palace, and he went straight to his father's office. He found the King and Renaldo, along with the Admiral of the Kahlzistani fleet and General Antillin. They were poring over maps of the Archipelago. The Pirate Isles. "My Lord, Admiral, General, Renaldo. Good evening to you. You wished to see me, Sir?"

"Marapal has requested assistance in sweeping the Pirate Isle to recover Byock." Marapal was landlocked. They had no way to do anything about the situation. Kahlzistan and Arbigahl were the only countries with any sizable fleet, mostly because of each other, and the pirates. They would have to ask Kahlzistan for help. They had no choice. But in truth, even Estaldo recognized that there was little to be done.

"We cannot search all the islands. There be hundreds of them out there, all along the southern coast. If we could rid ourselves of the pirates, it be done long ago."

"I know, Admiral Nerilon. But we must do what we can. Plan a sweep. I'll have the Ambassador send a courier to Arbigahl. Perhaps we can actually cooperate on something. I understand the Empress has personal issues with these pirates, too. Perhaps it is time for a major sweep, for several reasons. Gentlemen, put your heads together and give me a report tomorrow afternoon." The King nodded them out the door and turned to Estaldo.

"Your trip to Ysalor becomes even more urgent, and makes this pirate issue imperative. If this magic from Khalnowai portends what I fear it does, we must resolve these other issues, and quickly. However, this does present an opportunity. Estaldo, what else should be done?"

Damn, another test. OK, think. "We are sending invitations to Arbigahl to join us in a campaign against piracy. For that we will need ships, both to augment the existing Navy and to replace inevitable casualties. You fear something coming out of Khalnowai. Again, for that we would need ships, but normally a push for ship building would upset both Arbigahl and possibly provide an excuse for complaint from Ozmaroc. Since we dare not tell them the real reasons, things could get very shaky. The pirates provide an answer for their questions, especially if we encourage them to build their forces as well." Estaldo sighed. "We'll have to send such a message to Ozmaroc as well. I wonder what they're up to?"

"I wonder too. It's been much too quiet up there lately. Well done regarding the ships, boy, but what else?"

"We need to man them and supply them, of course. We need to expand the general military, as well, although the reasoning for that my be difficult to convey to our neighbors without offending them. The bandits on the northern borders may provide some excuse, although we all know who they actually work for."

"Father, nobody can know of my trip to Ysalor." Estaldo looked at the King. He had circles under his eyes, and seemed to have lost weight. "I'm sure Lobella will not object to going into seclusion after our wedding for a while. That should cover me for a bit, but not for long. Perhaps the two of us should be seen to travel to Tallagate. I believe she would like it there, and it would cover our absence from court nicely." Estaldo rose from his chair and brought his father some mulled wine staying warm near the small fire. "You should go to bed, sir. You are looking tired, and you must appear at your best to the people soon. Give some of the review work to your staff. They can handle it."

The King sighed. "How I wish I could. But when you start delegating too much, soon you don't know who's stealing from whom anymore. But you're right. It's time to slow the paper river down a bit. I'll go to doing random spot checks until things get back to normal, if they ever do. You go on to bed, 'Taldo. I'll go soon. I just need to stare at a fire for a bit." He set the wine aside. "Pour me a brandy before you go, will you son?"

Estaldo left his father sitting before the grate, the amber brandy throwing mellow lights across his hand. He suddenly hoped he would be seeing the old man there for a long time to come. And feared he wouldn't. With a shiver, he headed for his own bed.

The cursed music was too loud. It was always too loud at these state affairs. He couldn't hear himself think. And his feet were killing him. He imagined Lobella's were even worse, as unaccustomed to this as she was. Now it seemed every priest of every known power in existence was waiting to bless their union. An open invitation must be sent to them for such a momentous event, and of course they all accepted. The representatives of Arbigahl's goddess had pride of place in front, of course. They had fought tooth and nail for some sort of special recognition for their religion, and this was what they were allowed, as well of course as the private blessing given to Lobella earlier.

She stood beside him so swathed in fine fabrics he couldn't see a glimpse of her. It had better be Lobella under there! Ah, yes, there was Tessia, standing by her mother. That was a relief. It was always a relief to know where that minx was. Finally, he thought they were winding down. Now the procession back to the palace. At least they could sit in the carriage for that. He offered a supportive arm to his new bride as they were shepherded out the doors of the Grand Cathedral. It was truly an impressive place. He liked to come here when it was quiet. It was built long ago after the freedom of religion treaty. Almost a thousand years. He could still not believe they got all of the beliefs to come together long enough to build such a wondrous thing.

They reached the verandah at the top of the stairs. The crowd had a good view from there, even with the carriages waiting at the bottom. King Ramone Kahl'Terres awaited them there. He stepped forward to greet them and ceremonially removed the veils from his new daughter. She was beautiful with her hair up, ringlets around her sweet face. The King smiled at her and whispered, "Welcome child. You are most welcome with us." Then he turned to the people, waiting outside the cathedral for a glimpse of their Queen to be. "People of Kahlzistan, before you stands the bride of your Prince. Do you accept her as your Princess, to be Queen to his King one day?"

The crowd roared, and he felt Lobella's hand tremble a bit on his arm. Then she took a deep breath, stepped forward with him and smiled, head held high for once. The crowd went wild and she waved to them. He followed her lead, amused. She would do. Oh, yes, she would do. He caught sight of her mother, off to the side. Could that be a glimmer of pride in her stern face? The woman wasn't actually an ogre, just an Arbigahlan noblewoman. A fine distinction, granted, but he would do his best to treat her as well as possible, he vowed to himself.

Finally they were ushered to the waiting carriages. They were in the lead carriage, even the King following them for this one occasion. They sat up on the parade bench so the people could see them. He heard Lobella sigh as she finally was allowed to sit, and shared a small smile with her. "Kick off your shoes, if you wish, my dear. This will thankfully be a long slow ride to display us to everybody. May as well be as comfortable as we can manage. Would you like a drink?" He offered her a flask of well watered wine from a small chest of ice he had arranged to have placed in the carriage for them.

He smiled and waved at the crowd all the while, long practiced at being on display in a carriage. He kicked off his own shoes and rubbed his feet together. No boots for these affairs, he had determined long ago.

"Oh, my poor feet! And we are expected to dance soon! You people do like to torture yourselves! Who was it that designed all this pomp, back in the shades of time? She must have been one of those strange people that enjoy pain. Like my sister." Estaldo started a bit at that revelation, spoken as nonchalantly as a comment on the weather. And she had actually spoken several sentences in a row, one suspiciously resembling a complaint! He smiled at her, abandoning the crowd for a moment. He let his feet drift over to hers, and captured one of the dainty things between his, rubbing it.

"I begin to believe this is happening, Estaldo. I didn't really before. But nothing this painful could be a dream!" She actually laughed, and then looked a bit startled. He couldn't resist any more, and bent down quickly to steal a kiss from her. A brief taste of her lips, and the crowd went wild. It was a bit of an overwhelming response to such a quick peck, and she grabbed his arm, eyes wide. Then she smiled, and actual, open smile that shown from her eyes, and they went back to waving. At that moment, the population of Kahlzistan fell in love with her, their Princess. And so did he.

The rest of the evening passed in a blur. They did all of the appropriate things, made all the appropriate noises, and remembered none of it. They couldn't be parted and the room was full of amusement around them.

It was rare for state marriages to involve any kind of feeling, and if there was, it was rarely anything like this sudden fascination between their Prince and Princess. Everyone likes a fairy tale, and now they had their very own. Complete with wicked stepmother, although she didn't look all that wicked, now that a daughter of hers was safely married to the Prince. The wicked stepsister, now, that was a different story. She looked to have plans of her own for the night as well, although which man they would involve was as yet unclear.

Estaldo and Lobella wouldn't have cared even if they'd noticed. King Kahl'Terres, though, didn't want his in-laws to be frowned on the very night of his son's wedding. He sent a page to Ophelia. She approached him with a smile and dropped a passable curtsey. It was obviously something new for her. "My Lady. I'm afraid I must ask you a delicate favor. As you have been learning, things are done a bit differently here than in your far home. I do not consider it, at this time, to be any of my concern whom you or your daughter choose to take to your beds. But I must insist on a modicum of decorum at my son's wedding reception. Kahlzistani decorum." He nodded toward Tessia, a young nobleman in her arms looking red but game as she pressed herself against him. Two other young men looked on angrily.

"That young man on the left, the one with the thatch of blond hair, is the eldest son of Lord Theronold. His father is hoping that I'll appoint him to the land apportions committee. It controls public grazing rights for much of the livestock of Kahlzistan. A very profitable position. The dark boy in the flashy jacket? His father is heavily invested in beef. He had an arrangement with the previous occupant of the office in question. Lord Theronold is not inclined to continue that arrangement." He paused to take a drink of his wine, looking at her over the rim of his fine crystal goblet. Yes, she saw it. Good. "The redhead dancing with her is heir to a real estate empire, and his family would like to see the privatization of much of that land. They have a great deal of influence among the other nobility."

Lady Ophelia was even paler than usual. "I will speak with her immediately, your Highness. My apologies. It is very difficult for her at this age to understand the differences in our cultures. It is difficult for me, even at my age. We will learn, your Highness. I will see to it." She stepped away with another curtsey and sent one of her women for her daughter. The two stepped into one of the small side rooms. They soon emerged, both looking angry. Tessia returned to her dancing, but was much more restrained and showed no favoritism to any of the young men. He saw a few smirks among the noblewomen, and unfortunately so did the young woman. Her face was a mask.

Estaldo and Lobella danced only as much as was required of them. They sat in ornate chairs on the royal dais to one side of the throne and accepted best wishes and gifts from the multitudes of people that packed the palace ballroom. Soon after the ball started, Patrick had approached Estaldo formally with a large flat case in his arms. The orchestra had paused at the end of that piece and the Prince presented his bride with his bride gift. The wonderfully delicate silver and sapphire creations dripped from her ears and down her throat to her breast. Tiny silver bells chimed from her wrists. Her eyes shone to match the splendor of the gems Estaldo draped her with. Even now she occasionally turned her wrist a bit to watch the sparkle.

Finally, it was time. Prince Estaldo led Princess Lobella to the floor for the final dance. They stepped through the traditional piece carefully, having practiced with their coaches several times in the last week. The dance was used for nothing else, and so was a traditional point of trouble at many weddings as the bride and groom tripped each other up. They made it through without misstep, and were escorted to their rooms, a long trek down palace hallways from the ballroom. At last Estaldo pushed the last well-wisher out the door and bolted it to the sound of laughter from the other side.

Lobella was already collapsed in a chair, though as he watched she slid out of it onto the floor, making no effort to catch herself, the slippery layers of fabric surrounding her acting like a sled. She looked up at him, hand in her lap, feet straight out before her, head laid back in the seat of the chair. "I'm truly not sure if I can move again, my Lord."

"My Lady, you are utterly beautiful." He stood there staring at her for a while longer before his own aching feet made themselves heard. "A bath, and some food, I believe, are the first things for us. Let me see what we have." He kicked off his shoes and loosened the stiff collar of his formal jacket, making his way through the suite toward the bathing chamber. He passed a tray of fruits and cheeses, cold meats and small slices of bread under a glass dome and took it with him. The bath was drawn, steaming hot, as he'd requested. He placed the tray on a side table within reach of the huge marble pool, and saw the iced drinks already there. He dropped his jacket on a chair as he returned to the front room and his bride.

He heard muffled laughter as he approached, and peered through the doorway. The pile of fabric on the floor moved in puzzling directions and giggling came from inside. "Do you require assistance, Lobella? Or is it even you in there somewhere? It appears that a great satin beast has gobbled you up!"

"In truth, it has, Estaldo! Do please rescue me?" More giggles from inside the heap of delicate and voluminous fabric. He waded in, and after much laughter managed to uncover her head once again. "I tried to stand, and couldn't get my feet on bare floor! These horrible gowns you force your women into! I tried to take the top one off over my head, and got lost! So many layers! How will I ever get free of them?"

"I believe I might assist you, my love." Estaldo stepped carefully clear of the fabric and lifted her to her feet, letting the loose layers of colored fabric drift down to their accustomed order, then he began unbuttoning. He unlaced, unbuttoned, and at one point resorted to cutting and finally the last heavy robe fell away to reveal a simple silk shift under all. He stepped back to look at her, and she smiled and spun in place, letting him look his fill. He still found her complete lack of shyness regarding sex and the body a fascinating contrast to her normal reticence.

"I feel fifty stone lighter! Ow, but my feet still hurt." She stopped, and looked at him watching her, suddenly worried again. "I do hope I don't disappoint you Estaldo. I do want to please you, and I wish now I had learned the things they wished me to. That's why my mother tried to sequester me as she did. She feared you would find my lack of skill and discard me, as she would a slave that couldn't perform to her standards. They expected you to treat us as we do our men. I think your way is so much better. I haven't seen you treat anybody as less than equal. Except my mother that day. That was terrible, seeing her bent that way, and wonderful too. You are wonderful, my Lord." She stopped suddenly, and he realized she was chattering to cover nervousness.

He shook his head, realizing he had been standing there like a dolt just staring at her. No wonder the poor girl was nervous. Girl she was, he could see now. He hadn't realized how very young she was, until then. Her figure was just matured, not completely filled out yet. She was soft, all curves and shadows, her rich brown southern skin glowed with mystery against the thin white silk. Small nipples poked against the fabric, erect. Willowy, that was the word. He'd heard it used but not really thought of anybody as being so until now.

He was still standing there like a dolt, and her head began to drop to its old position. "You're beautiful," he blurted and was rewarded with a hopeful glance up. She searched his face, and he smiled at her and stepped forward. The step reminded him of his feet and he lifter her off of hers, gathering her to him. She melted against his chest and looked up into his eyes. He was standing like a dolt again and made himself look up and move, carrying her through the suite to the bath. He set her carefully on the edge of the marble pool and slowly reached to lift the shift over her head, watching for any sign of protest. There was none as she raised her arms for him. She turned and slipped her legs into the pool and eased herself into the warmth with a sigh. He sighed too as her lovely breasts slid out of sight. They looked just the right size to lift in his hands, and he longed to be sure.

She turned to look at him over the edge of the tub. "Are you joining me, Estaldo?" Dolt. What was wrong with him tonight? Was it something about being married, or just being married to this surprising woman of his?

"Yes, my love, I most assuredly am. Would you pour us some fruit juice, please? My mouth is suddenly dry." He unbuttoned his own shirt, quickly stripping it off as she poured two glasses for them. She turned back to him as he began removing his trousers, and he suddenly found himself shy. Now this is ridiculous, he thought. The poor shy, withdrawn virginal bride strips without a qualm, and the worldly and experienced Prince turns bashful. He forced himself to keep going under her gaze, without rushing too much, and joined her in the tub.

He gulped the glass of juice down and poured another before seating himself on one of the benches and letting the heat sink in for a moment. She was seated across from him, their feet and ankles crossed on the bottom of the tub. She laid her head back and relaxed, her breasts floating gently just below the surface. The rest of her was a distorted vision of fractured curves through the surface of the water. He caressed her calf with his foot, as he'd been doing in the carriage. She smiled, but didn't move.

After another few minutes of soaking, he drifted over toward her, aiming for the food tray. She turned to face him beside her now, eyes soft and a little wary. "We should eat a bit. I do plan to burn a bit more energy yet tonight." He smiled at her and dried his hands on a towel. He offered her some cheese on a bit of bread. She moved forward and ate it from his fingers, kissing them lightly, shy again as she glanced at him from under her long lashes.

Suddenly he was hard under the water. He made himself feed her some more, and himself. Meat, cheese, bread, then fruit, he counted items to keep from just taking her. Finally, he offered her a slice of lightly tart fruit, and made her reach for it. He lured her towards himself, finally letting her bite it and meeting her lips with his own as he took the other half. He slipped his arm around her and moved to face her, swallowing bite of fruit. He met her eyes a moment, then kissed her.

His lips met hers softly, just brushing them gently. Hers moved under them and he met them more firmly, gathering the lower one into his own, teasing it with the tip of his tongue. Her mouth opened slightly and he licked her lips softly, exploring. Her arms came around his neck and he deepened the kiss. She met him slowly, pressing herself to him carefully, not sure what to expect. He ran a hand slowly down her back making currents in the warm water. He moved it around her thigh and encouraged her to open her legs. She did so slowly, and he felt her kiss turn hesitant again. He moved between them, floating slightly in the water and lifted her off the bench to float with him, legs loosely around his waist, his arms around hers. She relaxed again when he didn't immediately try anything strange.

He drifted back until his shoulders were braced on the far side and let his hands wander over her, finally bringing one around to cup her breast, as he'd been wanting to do since his first sight of them. Perfect. She was watching him, her hands still on his shoulders as she sat straddling his thighs. He brushed his thumb over her nipple gently, and she caught her breath. His other hand traveled slowly over her back and side, smoothing her skin and learning her feel. She licked her lips and bent forward to kiss him again. He could feel her breath coming a little faster, and this time she met his tongue with her own, hesitant caresses that slowly became bolder as he welcomed them. Her hand began to move, her light touch traveling down his side until suddenly he was giggling and twitching away from her hand.

"I'm sorry, Bel, that tickles!" He smiled at her and captured her hand in his, bringing it up and pressing it firmly against his chest.

She smiled into his eyes. "Bel. I like that, Estaldo." She leaned back a little, and looked down between them. She began moving her hand under his, a firm touch this time, deliberately exploring his chest and arms. He relaxed, his hands on her thighs, and let her explore. Her hands wandered slowly lower. He watched her as her lips parted and the tip of her delicate tongue touched her lips. Her hands reached his hips and she moved back on his thighs, giving her full access to him with her hands and eyes. She just looked down for a moment, and he waited to see what she would do. Finally her hand wrapped deliberately around him and lifted slightly, weighing him in her palm. Her fingers moved, exploring his shaft, tracing the veins and the head. He stifled a moan, not wanting to interrupt her.

Hesitantly, her small hand closed around him and moved a little up and down. She glanced up at his face and he smiled. He moved his hand to cover hers and guided it, stroking his cock with smooth long motions, base to end. He captured her other hand and added it, encouraging her to grip slightly tighter. He returned his hands to her hips, steadying her in the water. This time he let the moan out. She began twisting her hands a bit, the added sensation wringing another groan from him. She smiled, pleased at his reaction. He reached up and pulled her down for another kiss, interrupting her work. She responded eagerly, her tongue joining his caress of her mouth.

He sat up and lifted her to the edge of the pool, wrapping her in a towel from the pile nearby. The bath was no place to do the things he wanted to do to her for the first time. He quickly dried himself and helped her to the sound of giggles and gasps, then swept her up again to take her to the huge bed in the next room. He tossed her shrieking onto the satin cover and dove after her, landing with his mouth on her soft belly and softly biting her. She shrieked again, curling her body around his head and he playfully pushed her back and down, trailing kissed up her chest and neck until he kissed her soundly. He let it go on until all trace of laughter was gone from their minds again. He slowly broke the kiss, lightly brushing her lips and leaving them reluctantly to trail down her throat. He found her breast and wrapped his lips around her small aureole. She gasped, arching her back to press up against him. "Estaldo! Oh, that feels so good!" Her breath was coming faster, and her fingers wound through his hair. He trailed one hand down her side, following the curve of her hip and thigh, then he drew it back up along the top of her leg, just allowing the tips of his fingers to brush her fine hair. He stroked her soft stomach and moved his lips to the other breast.

She moaned as he allowed his mouth to follow his hand back down the center of her body, tickling her belly button with tongue and then his breath as he moved slowly over her. He moved his head down and gently breathed warm air over her cleft, making her shiver. He sat up, and stroked her thighs with his hands, encouraging her to open them. She watched him from the pillow as she spread her legs and he knelt between them. "You'll like this, my love. I'll do nothing to hurt you."

"I like it already. It was never so interesting before. Does it all feel this good?" She watched him carefully, but he saw no fear in her eyes, just a kind of wary curiosity. "What about you, Estaldo? How can I make it feel good for you, too?"

Estaldo slowly looked down at his rock hard penis. Her eyes followed his and he heard a small gasp. Her eyes widened a little. "My beautiful bride, I am enjoying this very much, and it will only get better for both of us. For tonight, just let me worry about what to do. You'll learn quickly, I have no doubt." He gave her a leer and got a small smile in return. His hands traveled over her legs softly, and he lifted her knees, running his hands down the backs of her thighs and around her hips as he bent down to her soft mound. She laid her head back and waited, shivering slightly.

He blew lightly on her, then ran just the tip of his tongue down her fold, barely touching her. She twitched a little, and he licked her again, just a little more firmly, parting her lips slightly. Her breath caught and her hands moved over the sheets beside her. Another stroke with his tongue, this time parting her and tasting her moisture, but still not touching her center. He repeated this few times, and she breathed with him, not moving except her hands. Then he allowed his tongue to move deeper at the bottom, circling the opening to her tight canal. He felt her quiver a little, tightening her thighs against his shoulders, just a bit. He kept it up, firm enough for her to feel and become accustomed to and deep enough to taste her sweet fluids.

She was soaked, beginning to move her hips with him, just a little suggestion of rocking. He moved his tongue a little deeper and longer this time, finally reaching her clit. She gasped out loud this time, hands finally clenching in the sheet. "Estaldo, I, I...aah!" as his tongue stroked her again. He began long slow strokes from low to high, gently working her towards her first orgasm. Her moans grew louder. She tried to talk a couple times, but couldn't keep the words coherent. Her hips were bucking now, out of control, and he held her tight. His tongue moved in circles on her swollen little knob, driving her higher and higher toward her peak. She actually began trying to pull away, new to the strong sensations he was giving her. "Estaldo, enough, no, oh goddess, Estaldo..." her voice wound up to a scream as she finally went over the edge, bucking against his face, thighs clamping around his head until he almost smothered. He licked at her gently until she relaxed again, then wiped his face on the sheet and crawled up beside her.

Her eyes were closed, her breathing still rapid, and he gently loosened her fists from the sheets. She blinked, and slowly her eyes focused on his and she smiled. "Oh my." She slowly curled into his chest, burying her face against his shoulder. "Oh, my. Um, we haven't even done it yet, have we?"

He laughed, a rumbling in his chest, and kissed the top of her head. "Soon, Bel. Very soon, I hope." He jumped when her hands suddenly closed on his erection. He kept forgetting she wasn't at all shy about this, of all things. Just inexperienced. She reminded him, exploring him with her touch.

"I want to look at you." She pushed him over on his back, taking a minute to kiss him first. He rolled all the way on over, bringing a laugh of protest from her, but he managed to grab a wine glass before she pulled him back. He took a drink and offered it to her. She smiled her thanks and took a quick drink before handing it back. A second later he almost spilled the remainder as she continued her explorations, playing with his testicles.

"Easy there, Bel! They're attached inside!" She smiled mischievously at him, and kissed them in apology. Then she licked his shaft like a lollipop.

"Oh, yeah, do some more of that! Use your hands, like this." He reached down and demonstrated for her. After a few seconds he realized she wasn't joining him and looked over to find that she was fascinated by the sight. He grinned and stroked himself a few more times for her, then reached for her hand and wrapped it under his. She licked her lips and brought her other hand to join in. "Yeah, that's it. You're wonderful, Bel. That's good." He let go and she kept going, soft hands moving all over him as she adjusted, figuring out how to grip him comfortably. She found a rhythm for a few strokes, then she moved around on the bed a bit and tried again.

This time, after a few strokes he felt her lips at the tip of his erection. She licked at the opening, tasting his sweet precome. "Mmm, yes. I like it when you do that." He stroked her back, softly encouraging her. She licked him again, circling the hood, then just under it. She pulled back and stopped to look at it again, then continued, and this time she licked at the notch under his helmet, making sure to stimulate him there with fingers and tongue with each stroke. She had learned something from whatever they had tried to teach her! Now she had the head of his cock in her warm mouth, and she began working at it, sucking and licking, keeping one hand massaging below her mouth.

She was gaining skill and bringing him up rapidly. "Bella, lovely wife, if you keep that up, I'm going to come." He was breathing quickly. Gods but the woman learned fast! "Some women don't like to have it in their mouths, although some women truly like it." She showed no sign of stopping, and he felt his balls draw up. She found a slightly different angle and the suction grew, and he felt it drawing up from deep inside. "Now, love, now," he groaned as he shot into her mouth. She pulled back, but refused to relinquish her grip until the second pulse, then she watched the rest drip over her hand while she swallowed and giggled at his spurting rod, her hand still pumping until he reached to stop her.

She grinned up at him, a drip of white on her chin, still laughing. "Men are fun! Strange, but fun!" He lost it and suddenly they were both laughing. He found some warm damp towels in a clay warming chest near the bed, and cleaned them both off, trading drinks of fruit juice with her this time. He finished with a fresh towel, using the warm wet cloth to wipe her thighs, and then smoothed the wet hair back to silk over her pussy. She moaned. "Oh yes, 'Taldo, I want more. Show me more!" She reached down and took the towel and glass from him, setting them aside and looking at him expectantly.

"My turn again!" He grabbed her knees and lifted suddenly, flipping her back onto her back, legs in the air. He dropped them over his shoulders and dove tongue first back into her. She shrieked, laughed, and moaned in one breath, wiggling under him. She settled down a bit after he got a few licks in, but kept rocking her hips, working with him this time. He brought his right arm back under him and began wetting his finger, pulling on her lips and playing with them lightly until his hand was wet with her juices.

She was panting now, and he slowed down, beginning to press his finger into her tight hole. She slowed with him, then mostly stilled, waiting to see what this was going to do. He gently worked the tip of his finger around her opening, working gently on her clit the whole time. She moaned, and again. He worked his finger inside her until he felt her hymen, then stayed there, massaging the walls, getting her accustomed to the feel. She grew even wetter, and he picked up pace a little again. Soon she was rocking her hips, pressing herself on his finger and tongue.

He stopped, and she moaned, "No, 'Taldo, please don't stop, no," until he rose over her and he saw her eyes track his face again. "Ah, now I get to have you?" she asked.

"Yes, now I get to have you." He smiled down at her, leaning on his arms. She reached for him and he lowered himself to one elbow, reaching down to rub his cock in her juices, up and down her cleft over her clit. She gasped and her eyes closed again. He eased the head between her lips and pressed forward just a little. He brought his hand back up beside her and gripped her hip, steadying her as he pressed forward a little more and began rocking oh so slightly shifting the pressure back and forth inside her without really moving.

She shifted herself a little, playing with the feeling. He felt her relax a little and pressed a little harder, moving just a bit in and out. He kissed her, pulling some of her attention to her lips and tongue. He moved a bit more, distracting her with his tongue, penetrating her mouth as he was her pussy. He pressed further and felt himself slip a little inside her, resting against her barrier. His hips kept rocking in the same slow, small movements and she moaned in his mouth. Her hips moved just a little with his.

He pulled back from her soft swollen lips and looked at her. "Lobella. Bel." He waited until she looked up at him, still moving that little bit. "It's time, my love. This will hurt you just a little, but only for a moment, and then it will be better than before."

She smiled at him, bruised lips reaching for his again. "Do it," she whispered to his mouth. He rocked a few more times, then didn't stop the next motion, going right through her before she had a chance to tense. He slid half into her, so tight, so hot. She gasped and jerked and he stopped, kissing her face, stroking her hair back. He nibbled her lips for a few seconds and she relaxed under him. "It's all over, love. The rest is pleasure! All right?" She murmured something and captured his lips with hers. There was nothing hesitant in her kiss, and he responded in relief.

She began moving her hips against his, and he moved within her, slowly, gently. He pushed in further, her tightness slowly giving before him. She met him, pressing up against him until finally he felt his groin meet hers. He pushed one more time, seating himself firmly against her, pressing on her clit. "Aah, oh great Goddess, thank you!" Her breath came fast and her arms wrapped tight around Estaldo's ribs, gripping the tops of his shoulders and pulling herself tight to him. He kissed her hard and began moving in earnest, strokes lengthening as her moisture spread and her walls stretched to accommodate him. She moaned with each breath now, crying his name and clinging to him. He kept up his long smooth strokes, but moved faster, his own breath coming in eager gasps now.

She began crying out, nails digging into his back. He felt her knees drawing up beside him and he went even deeper. He felt the pressure on the head of his drum tight cock and knew he'd filled her. She cried out, then with his next deep stroke she screamed and her virgin pussy clamped down on him. He lifted up and caught her knees, supporting them and bending them up further. He drove into her now, seeking his own release as she bucked, rhythmic waves of pressure greeting his strokes as she came, and he was coming too. He let go her knees and she reached for him, dragging him down to her as he spent himself inside her. He had to remember to support his weight as she gasped under him, refusing to let him go even an inch.

He waited to recover his breath, feeling her aftershocks roll through her, waking answering twitches in him. Finally she relaxed, loosed her hold on him and he rolled to the side, pulling her tight along with him and she put her head on his chest, still gasping. When her breath slowed enough for talk, she said, "I think we need another bath."

It was awhile yet before either of them moved much, but finally she dragged him by the hand back to the bathing room where they quickly rinsed each other amid much giggling. When they went back to the bedroom, she poured some more wine while he stripped off the top layer of sheet on the great down mattress. The maids had layered the bed, thoughtful creatures that they were, and put an extra pad under the top layer, so that they might sleep in a dry bed without much effort.

She joined him back on the bed, snuggling under the comforter, warm against his side. He sat against the headboard, arm around her. The wine was nice, fine white, not too sharp. He savored it, and her in his arms. A month ago he would never have believed this possible, and here he was not only wed, but happy! He kissed the top of her head, snuggled against his chest. She rested her wine glass on his stomach. "Estaldo, what will be expected of me now? Are there duties I should know of?"

"Of course! You must wake me every morning with fresh brewed tea, and bring my slippers for my feet. You will cook me breakfast, then run down to the stables and brush and feed my horse and clean out his stall. Then you will clean my rooms and have lunch ready by noon. After lunch you will do the laundry, trim the garden, feed the dogs, and study advanced mathematics. I expect sex promptly after dinner, which is to be served exactly at the sixth hour."

She looked at him for a moment, then kicked him under the covers.

"Ow! You don't like that idea? I suppose I could do without the sex...Ow! Okay, okay!" He captured her foot between his ankles and held her tight. "My love, you are a princess. You're duties will include public appearances, and the ladies of the palace will attend you every day. You must listen to them, and learn the mood of the country from them, and perhaps direct it a little. Young noble women will come to be your ladies in waiting, and you will act as guardian for some of them, monitoring their schooling and entrance to society." She had begun to look worried. "You'll have help, of course," he said gently. "You must find a few close friends to help support you. Joanne would be a good start. She knows everybody!" That won a small smile.

"Other responsibilities will come to you only if you look for them. You may take an interest in anything you like, and be as active or inactive as you like. The garden outside these rooms is our personal garden, and is waiting for your touch. Just ask and gardeners will be sent to work under your direction. These rooms are yours to do with as you will. If you wish to become involved in politics, I will begin teaching you and you will sit at my side. If you do not, you can raise babies in the garden. It is entirely up to you, my love."

"But don't worry about that yet. I have a surprise for you!"

"Another one?" she looked up at him coyly, and her hand began tickling his still soft cock. He felt it stir.

"Mmm, many more. But that isn't what I was talking about. I thought we should get some time to ourselves, to get to know each other a bit. Father has given us Tallagate. It is an estate to the north, where we often went when I was a child. It is a wonderful place to avoid the city and the nobility. I do believe you'll love it, my dear. We can leave in a couple of days."

"It sounds wonderful. Is it very big?" Her big eyes stared up at him, and her hand was distracting him mightily from any thoughts of houses.

"It's a great rambling house, with gardens, and stables, and mews..." He turned toward her and kissed her, cupping her breast in his hand and forgetting all about traveling anywhere but inside her.

She turned into his arms, but murmured in his ear. "Tell me about Tallagate. Is there a stream?"

His mouth trailed down her neck, hand running along her side. He murmured to her, "Clear running water, to wash over you..."

King Ramone Kahl'Terres handed the sealed package to his son, Prince Estaldo Kahl'Terres. "The realm entrusts this errand to you under highest security. You will proceed to Ysalor at safe speed without betraying your destination. You will obtain what information is available, and you will return that information here as soon as possible. You may use any means necessary to accomplish this goal." It was a formal assignment, and the King performed it very solemnly. He had always made the division between family and duty very clear for Estaldo, and the young prince answered as formally.

"I accept this charge of the Realm of Kahlzistan, and will discharge it faithfully." He accepted the package from his fathers hands, and bowed formally. The King nodded stiffly. Then he smiled tiredly. "Not what I would have wished for a honeymoon for you, son. At least you seem happy in your marriage. I am truly grateful for that."

"Actually, father, the trip has already contributed significantly to our honeymoon." Estaldo plopped himself down in a chair across form his father's favorite seat. "The last week she's done nothing but talk about it. You have no idea how excited the prospect makes my lovely, excitable little wife!" His eyes went a little distracted.

"Ahem, some wine, son?" the King offered him a glass, an amused glint in his eye. "Are they almost ready?"

"They final trunks are being loaded, and Lobella is saying good bye to her family. I suspect she's enjoying it thoroughly, as she's doing it in the public gardens where they can't be rude to her. She's not the meek little thing we thought her to be. It's just that, beside them, she never had the interest in trying to be strong. She didn't want the things it would lead her to. Suddenly she finds herself in a wonderful new world, and for some strange and lucky reason, she decided to make me the center of it. Is that how it was for you and Mother?" His eyes, suddenly intent, met his fathers.

"No, not at first. Our relationship grew slowly, over the course of years. We started out as more like business partners, working for the good of the realm. We found we respected each other's opinions and complemented each other's strengths and weaknesses, after a few rather stormy clashes. I do miss fighting with your Mother. That woman could get riled over the damnedest things, usually just when I really needed to blow off steam over some political boarcrap. Or she did. We were good partners. The love grew over time." He looked past Estaldo at the fire in the grate, drifting in memories. Estaldo sat quietly with him, considering things himself. He felt suddenly adult, as if the last two seeks had drawn some kind of line in his life. He didn't think it was supposed to be quite that sudden. Didn't feel all that bad, though. Just petrifying.

The door opened and the guard announced Patrick. He stepped in, his blond hair and brown traveling leathers framed in the polished wood of the doorway. "Patrick, you rogue, you're more handsome every day. I'll have to get you married, next!" the King threatened. "Else every wench in the Kingdom will be ruined!"

Patrick ducked, "No, please, I beg of your majesty! Don't rescue me from my fate, if it be my destiny to die by my," he glanced downward quickly, "sword, well, what a destiny it is!" He grinned at the laughing King and continued, "If it please my Lords, the wagons are ready and the riders assembled. A page has gone for the ladies."

"Well then, it is time." Estaldo drained his wine and set aside the glass. Gathering the precious package, boxed to disguise the shape, he rose and bowed to his father. "I will return as soon as may be. Take care of him, Renaldo. I know you always do."

The King waved him away. "Just go already. It's all been said. You'll be back soon."

Estaldo smiled and left, walking through the palace halls to the side courtyard where the wagons and guards had assembled. The household of the Prince and Princess of Kahlzistan did not move lightly. Six carriages and ten wagons, with drivers, outriders, and guards made a considerable caravan. He met the women at the door, Princess Lobella, her new personal maid, Seneea, and several ladies in waiting from among the daughters of the nobility from the area around Tallagate. Joanne had assisted in choosing those to invite, ensuring a sensible group for the Princess so new to their ways. Of course, they each had maids, as well. And there were Patrick and his own Mansel and Cerix. Extra household staff to man the estate came as well. A small staff was on hand year around, but not enough to support so sudden a population of nobility.

The guard was 100 men. They would be garrisoned at the Estate while the royalty were in residence, and they brought supplies as well. The trip they used to make in three days on horseback was going to take seven or eight, instead. There were inns along the way, for the most part, but one wagon was a pavilion and furnishings, and another tents for the troops. Estaldo sure hoped the women Joanne had set up really were sensible.

Lobella was glowing. Her hair was pulled back in an attractive twist, and her face was lit with excitement. All her dreams were literally coming true. A place of her very own in the country, with gardens and lots of room for babies. He grinned down at her. "Come on, my Lady. Float on into the carriage, so we can get this menagerie on the road!" She stuck her tongue out at him and climbed into the carriage. It was a monstrous affair, with huge springs and seating for eight, if they were close friends. Fold down tables allowed some activity during the ride, games and such. The windows had screens that could be raised or lowered for air and weather. Still, he was glad he could ride! He climbed on Alsvider, and the head of the caravan started out the gate.

They collected an escort of townsfolk as they wound through the city, an ever changing crowd looking for a glimpse of the new Princess. She sat in the window and eagerly looked back at them, waving and stealing their hearts. She pointed at things and asked questions, eager as a child to see her new home. Without her families' influence, and assured of Estaldo and the other women's approval, she blossomed. Alsvider pranced along side, feeling the crowds mood and playing to it like the ham he was.

Patrick grinned on an equally prancing Nonnus. "Nothing like starting the day with a parade your honor, huh, princeling? We'll be sleeping in the mud soon enough, I've no doubt!"

"Oh, you're a font of cheer! Might as well grin and enjoy it while it's here, right! Take a lesson from your horse!" Estaldo straightened a bit in the saddle and waved to the crowd, setting off a wave of cheers. Patrick shook his head in mock disgust, stopping to smile at a pretty girl on a balcony. She tossed him something and he snatched it from the air and blew her a kiss before tucking it away.

"Somebody you know?" Estaldo asked, one eyebrow raised at Patrick.

He got a grin in reply. "Oh, yeah!" and that's all he would say.

They finally cleared the city gates and left behind the straggling followers, mostly young boys with too much energy. The guard arranged itself around the nobility and supply wagons, outriders scouting ahead. The land was well fenced in this area, and cultivated. They moved along at what was probably the best pace they would make, a smooth walk. The day was fine, the roads good, and everybody enjoyed the ride.

Two days later, Lobella was staring at him, pleading in her eyes. "Please, 'Taldo, get me a horse! I can't sit still in there another hour! I've ridden all my life, and this thing with women being cooped up in carriages is silly! I can use a sword, as well! In Arbigahl, it is required of women as it is of men here! I am far from the best, but I won't cut off my own toes! You have given me so much, but don't make me give up the things from my past that were good!"

She sent a murderous glance toward the carriage. "And if those lovely ladies don't slow down with the 'lady-like behavior' stuff, I may use a sword on them!"

Estaldo was a bit stunned at her sudden vehemence. This wife of his kept on surprising him, at a surprising rate. "Of course, Bel. Our culture isn't really as oppressive to women as all that! The nobility get a little stiff minded and old fashioned, but Joanne would never stand for it, and I can't believe her friends would be that closed minded. I'll bet that their families lectured them to within an inch of their lives about guiding you to proper behavior, and they're terrified of screwing up royally, so to speak."

"Oh, I hadn't thought of that. You're probably right. I should have caught it, it's not as if I know nothing on the subject of parental coercion." She thought for a moment. "Well, if it's royal anger they fear, then royal leadership in the subject should dispel it. If not, they'll just have to get over it, because I'm not spending the rest of my life in these uncomfortable skirts and trapped in a carriage!" She looked reflective for a moment. "I was always glad, in Arbigahl, that I was not royalty, because they were trapped in carriages and protective walls for security." A giggle escaped her lovely lips. "Now I am royalty, and I have more freedom than ever! You are my savior, my Lord! Now, please get me a horse! I shall go change into riding clothes. The Ladies can make what they will of it!"

A moment later she disappeared into the inn they had stopped to lunch at, a page with a large trunk accompanying her, and two young women fluttering after her. Estaldo's amused glance followed her. How she had bloomed since she didn't have to compete with that sister of hers! "Patrick! Where are you, you ugly son of a misbegotten whore?"

"I'll have you know my mother was an extremely high priced whore, who wouldn't have given a mush-faced cad like yourself a glance!" Patrick stepped around the corner of the building, adjusting his belt. "What do you want now, Oh Great and Mighty Future Ruler of all this," he swept a gesture around the inn yard, all that was visible of Kahlzistan at the moment. "All this grandeur and glory! It is my greatest pleasure to serve you!"

Estaldo stared at him in disgust. "Well, if you're the best I can do, you are allowed to find my Lady a horse. She chooses to ride. I wouldn't make the mistake of assuming she's new to the activity, either." He turned as more women and maids flounced into the inn. "I think we may be short of remounts soon!"

"For the Princess Lobella's sake, I shall overlook your boorish speech and not roll you in the dust a few times." Patrick scuffed it with a booted toe, a mournful expression on his face. "This should make for a much more interesting ride!" He strolled off whistling, headed for the corrals and the guard.

Cerix offered him a drink while they waited. The dry dust of the yard floated in the air, stirred up by the boots and hooves of more men than the inn expected to handle. Mansel held Alsvider and Nonnus, as well as his and Cerix's mounts.

Eventually a page came out of the ramshackle structure with a note for Estaldo. You were right, Joanne chose well! We will need 8 horses, three of them gentle beasts for girls that are willing but new to riding. Thank you, my Prince! He smiled and passed the number on to Patrick. Soon they came out, a flock of bright birds in split skirts and riding habits. Most of the maids and a few of the young ladies returned to the carriages, but Lobella and four of the young women of her new court as well as Seneea and two other maids were dressed for riding.

He led the liver colored gelding up to her. The beast had a bit of spirit and was among the best of the available remounts. "Lobella, this is Paté, for obvious reasons. Some soldier's idea of a joke. When we reach Tallagate, you may have your pick of the stables, as they are yours as well as mine!"

She smiled at him and stroked Paté's soft nose. He tossed his head and looked at her warily as her silks whispered in the breeze. "We shall get along fine, Paté and I. And I do look forward to exploring the stables with you!" She surprised him, reaching to kiss him quickly on the lips. A scattering of amused laughs ran around the yard as grooms and squires assisted the women into their saddles. Estaldo caught a glimpse of Patrick lifting Seneea by the hips although the way she sat when she landed, he doubted she needed the help. Lobella certainly didn't, swinging into the saddle with practiced ease. The sword she wore on her hip was expertly controlled, and it took him a second to realize what he'd failed to notice when she walked out of the inn. She wore it so naturally!

He turned to find Alsvider and noticed a few of the men glancing askance at it, but nobody said anything. He found that one a difficult thing to adjust his thinking to, as well. He had no idea how good she actually was with it, but she was obviously no stranger to wearing it. He hadn't given it to her, and he had not heard of her asking for such a thing, so it must be her own. He mounted up, deciding to keep silent until he could test her skills and talk with her about it. "Are we ready, my Lady?" The gelding stood solidly under her, an experienced army mount, not using excess energy any more than the soldier who normally rode him.

"Oh, yes! After the past two days, I am more than ready for a ride! Let's go, my love!" She looked bright and happy, no longer ducking her head and hiding in her hair. She turned to him as they waited for the outriders to clear the gates and move ahead. "I thought it would be hard to talk to those women, but you were right! They were already complaining about being kept in the carriages. All I had to do was ask them why, and tell them about riding at home. It didn't take long for them to come around. They were a bit shocked at the sword, though. I don't understand why it should be wrong for a woman to defend herself!"

"It could be taken by some as meaning that the woman doesn't trust the men of her family to defend her." Estaldo carefully did not meet her eyes, waiting for her reaction. He was still a bit unsure how he felt. In principle, he had nothing against women who wanted to learning to use a sword, or even being soldiers. Somehow it was different for his wife, though. He was honest enough to know he couldn't defend that position, but it still felt strange.

"Oh! Oh, my dear. But I do trust you! And that's so silly! Even the best guards can fail or be killed! I don't wish to dishonor you, my Prince. Do you wish me to remove my blade?" She asked formally, eyes downcast, waiting meekly for his decision. He hated it, that meekness back in her, and he wouldn't be the cause of it. To the pit with what people think!

"Of course not, my love. I would be a fool indeed to not make use of all of your talents, and knowing you can take care of yourself is a very good thing." He turned to her, meeting her eyes at last. They shone with pride and something inside him gave. "Please, though, my love. Be careful! You are my Princess and not a soldier or guard. Fight only in last necessity, please!"

She smiled. "Of course. I am not a fool either. I told you before, I am not as good as all that. I won't stab myself, but my sister would have me bleeding in seconds." Her face was serious and her eyes far away, suddenly.

"Your sister makes a lot of people bleed, if only with her tongue! Come, it's time to ride." He was rewarded with another smile, and they rode out the gate into the sunny afternoon. The road was much more cheerful with the women riding among them. The three new riders seemed to take things with good cheer, at least to begin with. Two of them seemed to be in love with their horses. What was it about horses that young women seemed to be so attracted to? Estaldo had seen it before, many times. It seemed that these two had simply never been allowed to be around them. The third, one of the maids, held on in stoic silence. It seemed she was riding out of determination to stay with her charge, the young Lady Melisard, rather than any actual enjoyment of the experience.

They stopped early that evening, much to the guard captain's disgust. It was to be a night in the open, so they needed time to erect the huge pavilion, and several of the women were looking at the carriages with a much more fond expression than previously. One of the maids had given up some time ago and returned to her cushioned if stuffy place inside.

Lobella sat with him while the camp went up around them. The cooks were making something smell better than army rations in the mess area. The pavilion rose in silken splendor. Estaldo thought traveling with a Princess might not be that bad a way to go, if excruciatingly slow. Patrick returned from inspecting the horse lines and joined them. The ladies lounged nearby on folding chairs unpacked first from the wagons. The efficient servants had already distributed wine and wet warm clothes for wiping away the sweat and dust of the day's journey. Mansel attended to him, Cerix nowhere to be seen. He must be attending to things in the pavilion. Definitely better than traveling with just the guard!

The next morning they were short another maid and one of the ladies for the riding club, but the others mounted up with only a little assistance once the elaborate camp was finally broken down and stowed in the wagons. They moved off onto the road as the sun cleared the trees in the east. They had traveled no more than half an hour when a shout came from the left.

One of the scouts rode hard for the column, his mount throwing foam and hurling himself over a low rock fence. The man was shouting, then jerked in the saddle and fell, an arrow sprouted form his back! Suddenly the air was full of shouts, the guards turning to protect them, the ladies screaming in fear and horses thundering toward them seemingly from nowhere! Arrows arched toward them, centered on the nobility in the center of the column. Most fell harmlessly, but one struck the horse of a young lady, and it threw her against the side of the carriage near her. She slid down and didn't move. The wagons pulled up along side the carriages, forming protective walls of a sort, then the riders struck them and Estaldo had no time for more that brief glimpses between fighting for his life. Lobella sat Pate, restless with battle urge, but well trained to stand until ordered forward. He saw a glint of silver in her hand, and found he was glad she was armed as he swung at the man before him. A sword came from his left and was blocked as he ran through his adversary, the man's sword wide before a back swing. Another took his place as his horse carried its empty saddle toward quieter pastures. The men seemed to be brigands, no uniforms, but they fought with discipline, in lines. He heard shouting increase behind him but had no chance to look as a spear thrust at him. Alsvider turned into it giving him the angle he needed to chop at the haft of the weapon. He turned his back stroke into a thrust at the spearman, off balance with his weapon slammed down. There was a scream from behind him and he nearly took a cut as he spun Alsvider unheeding of the men attacking him. The war horse's hooves flashed out behind them and a man's full throated roar of pain echoed the crack of bone as he connected. Estaldo's eyes were all for Lobella, sword flashing as she maneuvered Paté to stay between the carriage and the man attacking her! A wagon driver trailed form his seat, dripping beside her, and another man lay under the stamping hooves of the horses. He could not get to her through the wagons. They must have broken through back down the caravan and rode up between the rows! Lobella's sword flashed as she parried, then another flash came from behind the attacker, and Seneea buried a knife in his back. Alsvider spun under him and he lost sight of the women as another sword filled his vision. He blocked it with his dagger, in his off hand without his memory, then he killed the man and suddenly the attackers were fleeing. His eyes locked on a familiar form among them. A moment later his brain registered "Cerix! Cerix was the traitor!"

Slowly sounds filtered through the comparative silence that seemed to drop when the battle stopped. Moans and cries from the length of the column. Lobella! Estaldo spun Alsvider again to see Paté's empty saddle on the far side of the wagon. He threw himself from Alsvider's back to the wagon, climbing over the dead wagoneer to find Lobella on the ground between the two vehicles. She was covered in blood and he snatched her up, only to almost drop her when she struggled in his arms. "Put me down! I'm fine, but he will bleed out if I don't stop it! Put me down!" He obeyed, realizing dimly that the blood must not be hers. She fell to her knees beside a guard laying on the ground and tightened the tourniquet she had just gotten in place around his spurting arm. The bleeding slowed to a trickle and she moved efficiently to the next man.

Estaldo shook his head and left her to it, climbing back over to Alsvider. Patrick was nowhere in sight, so he rode for the head of the column. He spotted Mansel digging in a wagon. "Place that man under guard!" He watched as Mansel was grabbed and restrained, a stunned expression on his face as he looked at the Prince. "I hope I will apologize to you soon, Mansel, but for now I can't risk it. Treat him with care, but keep him guarded until I can deal with him."

He continued toward the front, finding Patrick already in conversation with the guard captain. "Your Highness, is the Princess harmed?" The men greeted him with salutes, bowing briefly from the saddle.

"She is fine, binding wounds. The attack was aimed for her, did you note that? It would have been successful, too, if they had figured on her Arbigahlan upbringing. Cerix was in on it." His anger turned his voice hard and cold.

"Yes your Highness, I noted that. The rest of the column was kept occupied while the main attack hit the center. I am not so sure they won't come again. My apologies, but I was unable to see, how was the Princess saved?"

"The Princess saved herself. She and her maid struck down her attacker, and at least one other. The bastards knew exactly how the caravan was arranged and what the defense plans were. They broke through the lines behind the Princess's location and traveled up between the wagons on the outside and the carriages on the inside. Such a plan would only have worked if they knew the Princess was mounted. Cerix!"

"We are still several days out of Tallagate at the rate we are traveling." The captain rubbed his stubbled chin, drying blood making it itch. "I don't like you and the Ladies exposed to another attack. My Lord, do you think the Princess could be taken ahead to the Estate? It would be a hard ride, but could be done by morning if we rode without stopping."

"Yes. I think my Lady can stand up to a surprising amount of trouble." A vision of her covered in blood, kneeling in the viscous mud created by bodily fluids flashed across his mind. "The danger should be off of the caravan if we leave it. There can be no conceivable goal other than a personal attack on us. Search the dead thoroughly. Send a pair of messengers back to the palace, and another pair ahead to Tallagate, now. We will ride with all speed as soon as we can be ready."

Estaldo didn't wait but left Patrick and the Captain to make the arrangements while he rode back to the women. He found Lobella working with the army medic, Seneea assisting her. Most of the injuries were surprisingly light. The brigands had been fighting to keep the soldiers occupied for the course of the raid, not to overwhelm them. Such an action would have failed. The raid almost hadn't. Most of the other women were cowering in the carriages, but he saw a few moving among the wounded, offering a drink or a soothing touch.

He dismounted, looping Alsvider's reins over a convenient wagon rail. "Lobella. You must get ready to ride again. We will ride hard ahead for the estate. If we don't stop more than a few minutes at a time, we can reach Tallagate by morning." He stopped himself from asking if she thought she could hold up.

She surprised him again. "We can't abandon all these people! They'll be massacred!" The soldier's eyes glowed, fixed on her face as she washed the gaping cut across his ribs.

"No, my Lady, you must go! Please, Lady, you must be safe!" The man forgot himself, speaking before his Prince, ordering his Princess. Estaldo forgave him when he saw Lobella pause, looking into the sincere face.

"Lobella," he said gently. "The attack was aimed at you. If you and I are gone, these people will be safe. We will take a change of horses each and half of the guard and ride fast. If the bastards wish to try again, they will have to keep up!"

He saw realization dawn in her eyes, and she nodded once. "Find which women might be able to keep up with us. The others will be safe with the wagons and carriages, but if any can stand the trip, you should have them with you."

"I'll ride." Seneea had come up behind her mistress.

"As will I." Another of the women, the young Lady Sendinal, stepped up. Her father's estate neighbored Tallagate, and she had grown up riding. Her clothes, too were covered with filth, her hands bloody to the elbow as she tried to smear some of it off with a rag. "I suggest we put on men's clothing and boots. These costumes of ours will never hold up to such a ride, and make targets of us as well."

Lobella looked at the two gratefully. "I don't think the others are ready for such a thing, but you are right. You are both right." She stepped back as a medic took over the young soldier's wound. "We'll change in one of the carriages. I have my riding clothes from home in..." she peered at the top of the carriage, "that trunk. There should be some things to fit you, as well." She sent Seneea to arrange retrieving the trunk and turned to Estaldo's arms. He held her tight, finding he needed the comfort as much as she. "Who would do such a thing? Estaldo, who would wish me dead?"

"I don't know, though I have suspicions. Cerix is a traitor. He has been with me since boyhood, I can't believe... But I saw him myself. They must be trying to cause problems with Arbigahl. My first guess would be Ozmaroc, but there are many things happening these days, and I fear we don't even know all the players, yet." He held her away from him, to look in her eyes. "You will be safe at Tallagate. They cannot field a large enough force to attack the estate, not this deep into our territory, no matter who they are. This was a chance raid, an opportunity, they thought, to hurt Kahlzistan and Arbigahl in one strike. Thanks to you, they failed." He let his pride in her shine, then turned her to the care of Seneea and Ardrel Sendinal. Another woman joined them, swearing she could keep up, and they retired to a carriage to clean up as best they could and change.

He grabbed a passing soldier and had Paté rubbed down and watered. The horses were still mostly fresh, if a bit wound up. They had barely gotten started this morning when the raid hit, and the battle had been brief. Alsvider was hardly sweated, but Estaldo made sure he was cared for as well. Patrick soon came riding up with a string of mounts. Each rider would lead his own remount. The soldiers split, the new contingent forming up on the far side of the road from the source of the attack. The women slipped from the far door of the carriage, in trousers with their hair bound up under caps. The four of them swung up on horses without aid and sat their saddles determinedly. The men, warned, showed no special attention to them, although they took central places in the column.

The Prince's banners moved to the front, and they set off. It must be obvious that the royalty were with the riders, but not so apparent which ones they were. They began at a walk, until they cleared the head of the caravan, then began the pattern that would grind into their bones for the next twenty four hours. Walk, trot, canter, trot, walk, five minutes for water every two cycles, and on again. Change horses every four cycles. The day went on forever, and the night forever more.

The women made no complaint, although they needed help to gain their saddles by the middle of the night. Once there, they held on defiantly. The ride went on, and finally dawn began to lighten the eastern sky. There had been no sign of the raiders. The land began to look familiar to Estaldo's weary eyes. A shout came from the head of the column, and he urged Alsvider forward. A dust cloud moved up the road toward them. He peered at it blearily, realizing that an attack wouldn't be out in the open like that. They continued moving forward, and the dust resolved into men and horses, then clarified into the Tallagate brown and gold colors. The messengers had gotten through and sent greeting party to reach them.

They changed horses once more, and rode into Tallagate as the sun cleared the estate walls. Estaldo slid down from the horse he rode, grateful to the beast for not moving as he did. He wasn't sure he would keep his feet if it did. Then he gathered his reserves and found his way to Lobella. She still sat in the saddle, looking dazed. The other three women sat, eyes fixed on their saddles. He looked around, spotted Emmet headed for them. "My Lord, welcome. Rooms and baths are prepared. Don't worry, my Lord, you'll be safe here. Oh, my gracious!" The man had caught sight of the women. "Ordilen, get somebody over here now to carry these poor girls inside! My Lady, you will be better soon, I swear!" Estaldo gave the man as much of a nod as he could manage, then reached for Lobella's hand. She looked down at him, then tried to dismount and ended up sliding into his arms. He staggered and had to set her feet to the ground or drop her. To his surprise, she stood, if leaning on him heavily. He saw the others lifted down by strong arms and carried into the huge manor house, and he and his bride staggered forward after them.

An hour later his last thought was to be sure his saddle bags with their precious package were secure in their rooms before he joined a freshly if quickly bathed Lobella in the depths of slumber.

Chapter 3

"How much growth do we expect in the flocks this year?" Estaldo asked Emmet over his mug, staring at the estate books open all over the table.

"We expect a good year, Sir, but the figures will depend on the new grazing lands west of here. We replanted some scrub land in a new hardy grass that's supposed to survive the more arid conditions there. If it works, we will be able to keep a larger percentage of the lambs to increase the herds. It will mean a smaller income in meat stock sales for a couple years, but a larger future stock." Emmet flipped through a faded ledger and showed Estaldo the relevant figures.

"Yes, I see. Very good. Will the drop in cash flow affect the horse breeding plans?" Estaldo reached for yet another book. He had already been at this for three hours, but he was determined to do it right, and needed to get a good foundation in his mind before leaving for Ysador. He took another drink of the strong bitter infusion the cook had made him, saying it would ease stiff muscles. He wasn't sure it was helping, but hunching over this table sure wasn't. It wasn't helping his head either. It was pounding. He had a feeling he should have slept longer than he had.

There was just too much going on. He felt like he was spinning between pending disasters. The only good thing was the way Lobella had bloomed! His thoughts drifted to a memory of her with a sword in her hand, and covered in gore fighting to get free of him to help a wounded man. What a woman she was!

Her voice roused him just as his head bobbed over the dull books and he caught Emmet's disappearing smile as he turned to greet her. "Good morning, Bella! How are you..." He stopped as he saw her, startled by the contrast from the memories he had been almost asleep in.

She stood in her full gown, a lovely spring green that stood out from her dark skin. Her shoulders drooped, her head drooped, her hair again disguised her features. "Good morning, my Lord," she murmured, or at least that's what he thought he heard.

"Lobella, what's wrong with you? What are you doing?" he blurted, confused.

"Nothing, my Lord. Do I displease you?" She glanced up quickly at him from behind her hair, just as she had when they had first met.

"What? No, I mean yes!" He saw her head drop again and suddenly he was angry through the pain in his head. "Why are you acting this way?"

Her eyes blinked through drooping locks. "I must behave as a proper lady, to be your princess. Acting as I did the other day was inexcusable. Whatever I may wish is unimportant. I beg my Lord's forgiveness." Her voice was husky, as if she dare not speak up. She hadn't worried about making noise on their wedding night!

He didn't understand, and couldn't focus well enough to figure it out now. "Whatever you want, my Lady," he said, frustration tingeing his voice more than he had intended. "Have some breakfast and look around your new home. I have work to do."

He sat back down and stared at the numbers drifting across the page before him, expecting her to join him at the table. Instead, he heard her footsteps receding and turned to see her running up the stairs, hands to her face. What had happened to her? He looked up at Emmet, who was doing his best to look in some other direction. "Emmet, do you understand women?"

"No, my Lord. I understand sheep, and wolves, and horses, and crops. No man understands women! I know a little about Martha, though, and you better drink that brew she gave you before she comes to check, my Lord!" Emmet tried a smile as he looked down at the prince.

The last thing he needed was two women mad at him this morning. Estaldo picked up the bitter concoction and choked it down. "I think that's enough for now, Emmet. I'm going back to my room for a bit. I'll check on the wounded men a little later, then I'd like to do a walk around with you."

"Yes, Your Highness." Emmet gave him a short bow and began gathering up the books.

Estaldo slowly climbed the stairs to his room. He suspected there was something in the brew to make him sleepy, although he didn't need much encouragement. He entered the bedroom, unsure if he was hoping Lobella would be there, or not. She wasn't. He flopped face down on the bed and was asleep.

A clattering from outside the window woke him some time later. The rest of the caravan was arriving and he roused himself to go meet them. Patrick was already at the door as he came down the stairs a few minutes later. "Any trouble?"

"Of course not. You weren't there to start it." Patrick looked tired, but a relieved smile showed through the banter at the sight of the Prince safe and sound. "How is the Princess?"

"Oh, she's just peachy, I'm sure." Estaldo growled, reminded of their performance this morning. Just then the rest of the ladies fluttered up the stairs, looking like a bunch of slightly faded flowers. "Ladies. I hope your trip wasn't too exhausting. I'm sure refreshments will be sent up right away, and you will soon be settled in and refreshed." They all curtseyed tiredly and let the servants guide them up the stairs.

Estaldo could hear the Captain barking orders to the men in the courtyard and sent a boy to request his presence in the library once he had things settled to his satisfaction. Looking around, he spotted Emmet in the midst of a storm of servants coming and going with new direction. "Emmet, some ale and food in the library when it can be arranged, if you please? For, ah, make it four please."

Estaldo and Patrick headed there to wait for the guard captain. "Did you have a chance to talk to Mansel on the trip, Patrick?" Estaldo asked. He was not looking forward to the coming interview, and in truth had no idea how to establish the loyalty of somebody given the events with Cerix.

"I talked to him. He maintains his loyalty. What else can he do?" Patrick shook his head and collapsed into an overstuffed arm chair with his back to the huge window open to the early summer garden. "So what's up with your lovely wife? Trouble in paradise already? What did you do to her?"

Estaldo cast a glance at him that shut him up immediately. Then he smiled a little in apology. "To be honest, I don't know, exactly. She was so strong on the trip, the way she rode and fought, and she was still walking when we got here! I could barely stand, but she walked to the rooms herself. Then this morning, she was suddenly back to the mousy little thing, and I'm afraid I didn't handle it well. I don't understand how she can be so different! Like she's two different women!"

Patrick laughed. "No, she's just a woman. They're all like that, to one degree or another. Just get her to talk, and listen. Don't try to understand, you won't, but if you listen she'll think you do anyway. Sometimes. Then again, she's a woman, you just never know!" Another laugh. "Given that it's you we're talking about, you're doomed."

"Oh, you're a big help." There was knock on the door and Captain Garlin walked in, followed by a couple of servants with trays of food and tankards of light ale. Estaldo rose and greeted the man with a firm hand clasp. "Captain, you have my sincere thanks. You have been invaluable on this journey. It shall not be forgotten. Nor will your men's bravery."

"Thank you, your Highness, it was naught but our duty, and our honor." He let a smile flit across his face. "If I may speak freely, my Lord?"

"Of course, Captain. I would be disappointed otherwise. Formality has it uses, but it gets in the way just as often." Estaldo handed him a well earned ale and motioned him to a seat.

"The men are deeply smitten with the Princess, my Lord, every one of them. Those who stayed with me, wounded or no, have all requested permanent assignment to your personal guard."

"It would seem to me that would be a quick way to get killed, the way things are going, Captain!" Estaldo shook his head ruefully. "Besides, I don't have a personal guard."

"I think it would be a wise idea, my Prince. You are a grown man with a wife and possibly little princes and princesses to think of soon. It is time to have your own men. Transferring them back and forth from the Royal Guard, or pulling them from the Palace Guard is no longer practical, and you should know and command your own men." He ducked his head a bit, then met the Prince's eyes. "I have taken the liberty of sending this suggestion back to Khultarra." Suddenly he rose from his chair and knelt before Estaldo, head bowed. "I have also requested the assignment as your permanent Captain, if my Lord will allow."

Estaldo stared at him, dumbfounded. Patrick grinned but remained silent. His first impulse was to tell the man to just get up, but he stopped himself. Captain Garlin was in deadly earnest, and he could not treat the gesture with any less respect. He stood and placed his hand on the man's head. "Subject to my father's approval, I accept you as Captain of my Personal Guard, and charge you with the security of myself, my family, and my household. I entrust to you our safety, and am well satisfied. Rise."

Estaldo stepped back and the Captain rose. They stood looking at each other for a moment, both unsure what was next. Patrick cleared his throat. "If you to are done being all formal, would you mind passing the bread?"

Estaldo laughed and shook his head. Trust Patrick. "Take a chair, Captain. Have a drink and some food. I have been considering what to do about Mansel. Cerix was a traitor, and they have both been with me since I was a child. I have no idea where or how they were hired, nor can I find out now. How do I trust him?"

"You can't, my Lord. I hope that it is a disservice to him, but it is not a risk you can take. Have him sent back to the Castle for inquiry, and find yourself a knew man, somebody local and random. I'm sorry, I understand it must be difficult, but nothing else would be safe."

"I feel that nothing is safe, anymore, nor will be for a long time." Estaldo sighed and took a drink. The ale was excellent, a light brew for a warm afternoon. Suddenly he was hungry and he set it down and reached to put meat and cheese on some bread, fighting with Patrick over the crock of the cook's wonderful spread.

"How are the men? How many lost?"

"Only one dead. Six badly injured, but likely to recover with a few scars. One swears he owes his arm to the Princess! Many small cuts, one broken leg. The man had the bad luck to fall from his horse through a wagon wheel. He'll recover, the leg set straight." The captain smiled grimly. "They are good men, and blooded now. They will be the core of your guard. A visit from you and the princess would be very welcome."

"I certainly intend to visit them, and I'm sure the Princess will as well. Please coordinate with Emmet and the guard master here for our local defense." Estaldo paused, glancing at Patrick. He nodded. "Captain, please say nothing to anybody just yet, but I will be making another trip shortly. I must needs visit Ysalor on a matter of some import, and secrecy. Please consider the best way to make such a trip with a small guard and no notice."

Captain Garlin opened his mouth to question, then paused and said simply, "Yes, my Lord."

"Would you send for Mansel please, Captain. I at least owe him a personal explanation." Estaldo took another drink of the ale. He was not looking forward to this interview.

The three men ate and drank in silence until another knock on the door heralded the arrival of his life long manservant, under guard. At his call, Mansel was led in with two guards. The Captain sent them to take up guard in the hall. Mansel sank to his knees, looking down at the floor.

"Sit, Mansel. I am profoundly sorry about this. Damn it, man, I truly don't think any wrong of you. But I didn't of Cerix, either. I have no choice in this matter, but to send you back to the Palace for investigation. I have no doubt you will be cleared, and return to my service soon. But the way things are, this must be done. I do hope you understand. But if you don't, it must be done anyway." He looked down at a man who had done nearly as much to raise him as his father. "Damn it, man, get off the floor."

Mansel finally nodded, stood, and took the tankard Patrick offered him, even taking a small drink. "My Lord, I would never betray you. I would never have thought Cerix would, either. I don't like this. I know you can trust me, and I want to say you should know it, too. But you can't. I know that." He looked up and Estaldo almost flinched at the anger in his eyes. "All I wish, my Lord, is to see Cerix again. Perhaps, one day..."

"Have no doubt that Cerix will meet an end appropriate to him. You will return to the palace as soon as a return trip can be arranged. In the meantime, you will be housed in the barracks under house arrest. Orders will be given to treat you with respect, but I'm afraid the guards will be required. I swear this will be handled as swiftly as possible, Mansel. You have given me long years of service, and believe me, it has been greatly missed already. I think I may be wearing miss-matched hose under my boots."

Mansel managed a small smile. "Probably, your Highness. You will need somebody to help you until I can return. May I assist in choosing and training... No, I suppose not. Then I shall hope you can find somebody who at least is not color blind."

Patrick laughed. "I, for one, shall miss you! It is a difficult job we do, keeping his lord's head from swelling out of his hats. I shall endeavor to carry the load alone until your return! I must say, however, it is growing much more difficult lately!"

Mansel grinned at him, and the four of them traded small conversation until the platters were depleted, and the ale gone. Then Estaldo rose to attend the wounded and Mansel was returned to the barracks. The Prince listened to the orders issued for his guard, satisfied that he would be well treated.

The wounded had been set up in one of the barracks dormitories. Estaldo was half surprised not to see Lobella there, but not at all surprised to find she had already been. He moved through the men, shaking a hand there, offering some water here, thanking these men for protecting him and his with their bodies. It affected him profoundly, seeing the loyalty in the eyes of men with their flesh ripped open. He vowed they would have his loyalty as he had theirs.

He visited Alsvider in the stable on the way back, and was amused to hear that Lobella had been there earlier, to visit Paté. The stable master reported that she had come with only Seneea, and seemed a bit nervous. "Like a filly straying too far from it's dam, milord." The old man grinned, displaying teeth yellowed and remarkably similar to his charges'. He just didn't understand the woman. She owned all of this, yet she felt she must sneak to visit a horse. He was beginning to think that the vision of her on her army horse with a sword in her hand had been a dream.

Returning to the house, he resolved to find her. Patrick went to bathe and rest a bit before dinner, and Estaldo found from one of the maids that the ladies were in the solar on the second floor. He found his way there and took a deep breath before knocking briefly and entering. Lobella was seated in a huge wing back chair before a window catching her in sunlight. An embroidery rack stood before her, though her hands rested idly in her lap. She wore a dress with many layers of frothy lace in a pale yellow that faded her hair into colorlessness. Seneea sat on a cushion near her feet, while the other women scattered around the room working on various handiwork projects. The ladies Melisard and Sendinal were wearing much simpler outfits, but they were in the minority among the other women here. A few he recognized from the caravan, but others must be local gentry here to greet their new princess. Their lords would be presenting themselves tomorrow. Another thing he wasn't looking forward to, particularly.

The room had gone silent with his entrance, and he felt like a specimen on display before all those feminine eyes. He bowed to the room and nearly lost control to a giggle when he caught Seneea rolling her eyes at him. He managed to swallow and rose to address his wife. "My Lady, I thought you might care for a stroll around the garden. Some mild activity would be of use to both of us, I believe, after our recent trials."

She looked up at him, finally, and after staring searchingly at him for a moment, nodded. "Yes, my Lord, that does sound pleasant." Her silk shoes peeked from under her skirts as she rose and he wondered how she would fare on the garden paths, but decided to leave it to her discretion. He did resolve to consider their route carefully.

He offered her his arm and they made their silent way downstairs and out to the flower beds behind the manse. Tallagate had long been known for its gardens, and they were extensive. They were open for public tour on holidays and certain other occasions, but not with the Prince and family in residence. Several other women fluttered behind them, including Ardrel Sendinal and Tellra Melisard looking relieved. He had a feeling things were not going to be easy for many of them for a very long time. He sighed.

Lobella looked up at him as they reached the door, then down at her feet again. "I'm sorry to so disappoint you, my Lord." She didn't even look at the magnificent array of vining ferrablossoms that covered the archway leading into the gardens.

"Lobella, Bella, you don't disappoint me. You surprise me, continuously, but you do not disappoint me. It is I who must apologize for my reaction this morning." He sighed again. "You have me thinking that I have married different women. One who is withdrawn and out of place, quiet and unsure. One who rides and fights with the best of my soldiers. One who is a wanton in my arms at night."

She pulled away, still looking down at the bark that covered the path. "I don't know who you want me to be. I don't know how to be the person anybody wants me to be, it seems. I do try. I will try not to shame you my lord." She turned suddenly onto a new path away from him and he had to stop to keep from walking away from her.

Estaldo turned after her, not knowing what to try next. What could he say to this woman that she wouldn't take wrong? "Lobella, wait! Lobella, don't walk away! Please, Lobella!" His exasperation must have come through, for when he reached for her arm she pulled away and ran back toward the house. "Lobella!"

He saw Ardrel Sendinal give him a dirty look and go after her, and Seneea move to meet her at the door. Then they were hidden in the flutter of pastel skirts. "We'll never get her straightened out if you keep this up, my Lord." The voice coming up beside him came from Tellra Melisard, and was rather acerbic. "What did you say to her?"

"Nothing! I tried to tell her that I wasn't disappointed, but that I didn't know what to make of her! She changes all the time! I don't know what to expect or what to say from one meeting to the next!" Estaldo turned to the black-haired young woman, hoping for something, anything, to help.

"That's because she doesn't know what to be. She wants desperately to please. She never has, you know. Pleased anyone." Estaldo nodded, he knew that, after meeting her mother and sister. "But everybody wants something different from her."

"When we arrived here, the women fussed and pampered her, and when she woke, they did the same and they seemed so pleased that she let them. Of course, they deplored the clothes she rode in wearing, and the need for her to wear them, so she let them dress her 'as befits a Lady' again. Then you yelled at her so she retreated to the only ones that seemed pleased with her, even though she hates their primping." Tellra gazed after the Princess, at the walls of the manse. "She must find a way to her own self confidence, figure out who she wants to be. I don't know how to help her."

"Neither do I, obviously. I had hoped that you and Ardrel and Seneea could help, but I see you are outnumbered. And it isn't going to improve anytime soon. The Lords arrive to meet us tomorrow, then we will have to have a banquet. There will be no dearth of proper women folk for her to try to please." He sighed. He seemed to be doing a lot of that lately. "The fact is, she must be accepted by them, at least to some degree. She is their Princess, and will someday be their Queen. Alienating them all with outrageous dress and behavior would not be a good start. Maybe we should let it be for now."

Tellra looked at him. "You are awfully young for this," she said to herself, just loud enough for him to hear. "No, Taldo, you should not let it be, or you may not ever get her back. Go, send the women away, and let her talk to you. Don't try to solve everything for her, just let her talk. Give her some information if she asks, but don't fix it for her. Let her talk."

Estaldo looked at her. "That's what Patrick said."

"He would." She smiled a bit, eyes somewhere else. Patrick, and Tellra? No surely not. She was a nobleman's daughter! He wouldn't, would he?

"Go, Estaldo!" Her voice brought him back and sent him stepping toward the house and his wife. His wife. Yes, she was right, they had to figure this thing out, it couldn't wait. Lobella didn't have the time or luxury of finding her way slowly, she had to pull herself together, and she had to do it quickly. Surely she could see that. Actually, she probably could. That would explain part of why she was trying so hard to be a 'proper lady.' He sighed again. He had no idea how to help her. Listen, they said. If only she would talk! She just seemed to get him going long enough to say the wrong things!

He trudged up the stairs, trying to think of, well anything. He'd never had to work this hard to get along with a woman before. Except Joanne, and she didn't really count. Come to think of it, there really weren't any other women in his life on any kind of serious level. He knew how to keep the castle staff women happy with him, but somehow he didn't think the same kind of flattery and boyishness would work with Lobella. He looked up and was in front of the door to the women's solar. He stared at it for a while. He shuffled his feet.

Somebody cleared their throat behind him and he started violently, whipping his head around to see an elderly maid with a tray. She kept an admirably bland face but he could see her eyes twinkle. "Excuse me, my Lord. The ladies wanted some refreshment, they did." Her lips twitched but didn't quite reach a smile.

He sighed as the heat flamed in his cheeks and he smiled at her anyway, giving free rein to her own amusement. Estaldo opened the door and gestured her in ahead of him with a flourish and let the smile stay on his face as his eyes rose to find those of his wife. He saw confusion there, and a little hurt, and a game little smile in return quivered on her soft lips.

"My lady, might we speak in private?" He held out his hand to her from the door. There was a soft rustle around the room as several of the women shifted in their seats. He could almost feel the disapproval from the older women, and he could see the frowns on their faces. Damn them, he was their prince, and she was their princess, not some provincial maid to be taught manners! He drew himself up and let his eyes drift around the room as he'd seen his father do a hundred times. He almost smiled when the rustling drifted after his gaze, female eyes dropping to laps. He looked back to Lobella, hand still outstretched for her. He smiled encouragement and she rose and came to him.

They strolled toward their private sitting room in silence, neither wanting to disturb the almost accord they felt for the moment. Why couldn't things be like this all the time? Entering their chambers, he let her go, suddenly unsure again. "Lobella..." He paced around the room, totally unable to come up with anything. She sat on the edge of an upholstered chair, hands in her lap and head down, saying nothing. Suddenly frustrated again, he stopped and faced her. "Patrick and Tellra say I should just listen to you, but how can I do that if you never talk?" he finally burst out at her, then turned to pacing again.

"What am I supposed to say, my Lord? I seem unable to fit into this strange life of yours. I was unable to fit into life at home. I don't fit anywhere." She buried her face in her hands and shook with sobs. She was still talking, but he couldn't make out more than a word here and there, and he found himself on his knees next to her. He hesitantly put an arm around her and tried to comfort her.

"No, Lobella, you will fit in, you just have to find a way to do it your way! Not all at once, but you'll find a way! Don't cry, please don't cry!" He held her awkwardly and cursed. He'd never felt awkward with her before. "Bella, don't cry, it will be alright, I promise. It will get better. You just have to be yourself!"

She wrenched herself away from him, whirling to yell at him. "Be myself! Goddess, who is that? Who am I? Do you know who I am? Because I don't! So tell me, Prince!" She made it an epithet. "Who am I? Who am I supposed to be? The prim and proper Kahlzistani princess, wrapped in lace and simpering to every man that walks by?" She made man sound equivalent to rat. "Or the exotic Arbigahlan warrior woman? I failed at that before I ever came here! You married a failure, Prince Estaldo! I only hope it doesn't bring us to war!" The last works faded to barely a whisper as the bloom of angry color faded from her face, and he realized just how frightened she was.

She stared at him staring at her, then turned and fled to her own rooms, slamming the door behind her. Well, that had worked well. He supposed his great counselors would advise him to go after her, but he just couldn't do it again. He had no idea what to do for her, and he just seemed to make it worse. Damn it, she would just have to figure it out for herself, at least for today. He left, headed for the stables. He needed some clean air and space for awhile.

*******************************

Patrick turned away from the window, shaking his head. "Well, they'll have to figure it out for themselves. What do you think of the Princess?" He looked over at the lovely form draped over the divan in his room.

"She's a difficult one to understand. She has been bullied all her life for being weak, but she is from a land where even a weak woman is expected to command respect. She has been told she must serve her husband, although she spent her young life being served by men. She has been told that war could come of her incompetence. The poor dear is totally bewildered." She reached up and pulled two jeweled pins from her gold streaked brunette hair, and it cascaded down over her lap. "She shows flashes of strength, though. Tellra and I will stay close and try to keep the matrons of propriety under control and give her room to figure it out." Her lips curved in an openly sultry smile. "Now, my dear, enough about another woman. Tellra can only cover my absence for so long. I'm sure you don't wish to spend it on the Prince's romantic problems."

Patrick smiled back, letting his eyes trail over Ardrel's figure, lush even laced tightly into the fashionable gown she wore. "No, indeed my Lady. I have other ideas entirely." He went and drew her smoothly to her feet. He bent close, his lips not quite brushing hers before moving to the side. His breath caressed her cheek as he drifted down to her neck before finally tasting her fine skin, lightly, so lightly. He enjoyed the catch he felt in her breath through his grip on her arms. Straightening again, he let his lips touch one fine brow before releasing her to reach around and pull the soft weight of her hair over one shoulder.

He moved slowly behind her, his hand drifting chastely across her upper chest, barely brushing the fabric. He could see the tight laces stretch with each quickening breath, and he pulled the first knot loose.

"Patrick..." She started, and stopped. His fingers lightly tugged and the dress loosened until she filled her lungs with a deep breath. His fingers slipped through and stroked her sides lightly over the fine linen shift she wore beneath. Then he reached down and gathered up her skirt, finally lifting the dress while she obligingly raised her arms. He paused, the dress still trapping her arms and face, and leaned in to let his lips and tongue slip along the top of her spine. She gasped and wiggled down, trying to pull free of the weight of fabric imprisoning her. "Patrick!" Her voice was gaining a bit of insistence, and he smiled as he pulled the gown free of her.

"Yes, my Lady? Did you want something?" He smiled wickedly at her as she turned. The smile widened as he watched her trying to decide whether to growl at him or kiss him. Cupping one hand behind her head, he pulled her to him and helped her make up her mind. No soft caress this, their hunger opened their mouths to give free rein to their tongues, exploring each other, tasting and twining. He pulled her hard to him, enjoying the feel of her body through the layers of cloth that yet separated them. She was enjoying the feel of his, too, pressing against the hardness between them.

He reached down and scooped her up, and carried her to the bed, placing her tenderly in the center before breaking their kiss to stand before her. The soft linen outlined her breasts. His eyes drifted over the tiny tents where her nipples stood waiting for him. Looking up he caught her eyes on his own hands as he pulled his shirt loose. He lifted it slowly over his head, giving her the chance to look her fill. He sat beside her, and let one hand drift along her smooth calf, stroking the tender skin behind her knee, pushing the shift just enough to bare the glimpse of a smooth thigh before bending to remove his boots.

He saw the twinkle in her eye as she decided to pay him back for his slow tease. Her own hand drifted slowly up her flat stomach, slowly moving to cup her breast. Her palm flattened and moved over it, rolling the hard nipple. He could see her breath deepen again as she moved her hand down to pinch it between her thumb and forefinger. He realized his own breath had deepened and he was staring at her. He glanced up and caught her almost hidden grin and choked back a laugh. "Beautiful, my Lady. Any man would be entranced by such as you!" He pulled loose his boots and stood again. His hands went to his pants and it was his turn to smile as her eyes followed them and she licked her lips. He slid them down, baring the hard length of his phallus. He bent to remove them entire and as he straightened he found her on her knees before him, her eyes on the object of her desire. He saw no reason to object.

Her lips closed over him and he tilted his head back, eyes closed, a silent groan locked in his throat at the feeling. She had no great skill as yet, but he had never found a woman with more enthusiasm, not even Trina. Her tongue lapped at him, and she sucked the precum that released at her urging. The groan escaped finally as he had to breathe out in order to gasp as his body demanded he do. Her hand wrapped around the base of his cock and began moving as she sucked more of him into her mouth. He felt his knees try to bend and braced them on the side of the bed. She was devouring him, her head bobbing, already at a rapid pace. He scooped up her heavy hair and held it back to watch her face.

Her sweet lips slid over him, his cock disappearing into her mouth. It was a fascinating sight, and he lost a few minutes just watching. He reached back and let his fingers walk her shift up an inch at a time. Slowly the curves of her ass appeared, and the line of her spine traced up her back. He gathered the cloth into his hands and lifted it, easing back from her until she finally, reluctantly released him. He wasn't ready to spend yet, in spite of her eager attentions, and the sight of her lower end took his mind to other pleasures.

He lifted her chin with one hand and pulled her shift over her head, dropping it off her hands as he pulled her to her knees. He kissed her softly, urging her back on the bed, crawling up to follow as she laid back. He let the kiss trail down, tracing her jaw, the pillar of her neck, the delightful notch of her sternum. He followed the slope of her breast and curved his path around it, one hand coming up to softly cover the other soft mound before his lips gently drew her hard nipple into the reach of his tongue. He fit the notch at the base of his thumb around one as he sucked and played with the other one. She shifted under him, her hands in his hair, her hips lifting from the bed and dropping again when she failed to reach him.

Patrick wanted little more than to oblige her, but he held off just a bit longer. Giving her breast one last hard suck, he moved down, biting softly at the side of her luscious belly, enjoying her movements under him. A little lower and he teased the edges of her folds open with his tongue. He held her hips still and opened her slowly until the bright bud of her center lay exposed. He let his breath ghost across it and watched it swell. "Patrick, don't tease! Oh, Patrick," Her voice was hoarse with the eagerness of her young body, so quickly on fire. He let his tongue graze her lightly and laughed at her moan. He gave up subtlety and licked her, tasting her tangy flavor. She bucked under him and he reached down to ease his tongue into her opening, making sure she was wet and ready for him. He needn't have worried.

He slid into her tight passage with a smooth, slow stretching of her walls. She moaned and pulled him in, her legs rising around him. Her warm flesh wrapped him inside and out and he moved in her, skin sliding on skin. Their mouths, their tongues echoed the rest of their bodies, twining and moving on each other. Her nails scratched him and she bit, lost in the feeling that were still new to her. She had lost any inhibitions she may have had without regret, and now was wild under his thrusts. He felt his own body tightening, legs straining tight as he pulled back against her hold on him. His hips moved in short hard motions, deep inside her. She cried out and arched back under him. Her pussy tightened around him in waves and his own orgasm swept through him, shooting into her. He drove himself as deep as he could for that last push, his arms locked around her, a groan coming from deep in his chest.

**********************************

The women were hopeless. Lobella sighed as she reined back again. Even the mild little palfrey the stableman had given her instead of Paté wanted to move more quickly than these women could handle. She sighed and readjusted her skirts, again. It was probably a good thing, surely she'd sail right off the horse's back if she tried to gallop in this ridiculous outfit. She let the mare move ahead a bit, climbing a rise while being careful not to worry the ever present guards. They seemed puzzled as they looked at her. She blushed slightly as she remembered the last time they'd seen her ride. Her heart yearned to go back to that brief period of happiness before the attack.

Tellra rode up beside her. Lobella envied her the simple riding dress she wore. It wasn't quite pants, but it was much more comfortable appearing than the yards of fabric she was encased in. She sighed. She knew the other noblewomen were scandalized by it, and so she couldn't wear anything so practical, in spite of Tellra's urging. "My Lady. At least the air is wonderfully fresh out here. We must do something about airing out the sitting rooms!"

"Yes, those windows have to open! Surely this wonderful country air cannot be as bad as Lady Hawthorne implies! Oh, Tellra, how can I survive making them approve of me?"

Movement caught her eye, and she focused on a rider down the valley some little way. He came out of the woods angled back toward the estate, and from that angle probably had no idea of his audience. The horse picked up his pace and fairly flew across the tall grass. A pair of guards trailed with no hope of matching the pace of Estaldo, for that is who it must be.

Tellra cleared her throat. "Your Highness, have you considered, you are the Princess. You will be our Queen. Why should you be worrying about them approving of you? It is up to you to approve of them!" She looked sideways at Lobella, and saw the naked longing in her eyes, knowing it was for both the man and the picture of freedom before her. "I know what your family told you, but the fact is that you have married the prince. It is done. You must keep the respect of the country, yes, but that doesn't mean following the outmoded prejudices of every country noblewoman! You are a young woman, and your country will love you for being their spirited, lovely, young princess! Do what you like!"

Estaldo slowed and let his guards catch up just as they rode from sight behind another patch of trees, and Lobella looked at Tellra. "I don't know. They all seem so important, and I know that the way a woman acts in Arbigahl would send them screaming for home. Not that I ever was a proper Arbigahlan woman, either. But I see you and Ardrel at least a bit more comfortable! I will think about it. Something has to change or I will never make a decent wife, or princess or anything else. And I do so wish to do right at something!" Suddenly her face was crumpled in tears and she bowed over her horse's neck, sobbing.

Tellra glanced over her shoulder, gauging the chances of letting the Princess finish her much needed cry without becoming the centerpiece of a fluttering flock of females. She kneed her horse and herded Lobella's over the crest of the hill, shooting a glance at Seneea. She wasn't sure what the maid could do, but the woman had an amazing gift for improvisation. "Lobella, you will be fine. I think you are closer than you think to taking the first steps on the right path. Just have courage a little longer. You're doing fine. Everybody loves you, including Estaldo! You'll find the way, we'll help you." She kept murmuring every positive thing that popped into her head, reaching to stroke the woman's back up and down.

Seneea caught the look and managed to urge her horse into Lady Thinstimple's, and the poor old animal did its best to shy. That put all of them into a quite satisfying tither, causing more horses to startle. Eventually poor Miss Runderlock slid right off onto a bush! The guards cursed under their breath as they dismounted and calmed horses and women and caught the confused bay that seemed mostly unsure of where her rider had gone. Seneea had a coughing fit to cover her laughter.

Tellra caught a good part of it over the top of the rise, and ended in a spate of giggles in spite of her attempts to resist. Lobella looked up from her tears in hurt amazement, and Tellra tried to stop, then saw Lady Heithengorse with her reins tangled and the poor horse going in circles, around and around, and she was lost. She just waved Lobella to look back. Lobella listlessly looked toward her escort and her eyes widened a bit. A funny little snort escaped her, then what must have been a suppressed giggle, then she gave up and laughed outright, tears forgotten.

"Oh Goddess, Tellra. I was afraid of not being able to impress them. I've never impressed anybody in my life, until a couple of days ago, and it scared me. But, you know, I think maybe, if that is what I'm worried about, I don't have a problem."

Tellra eyed her. "My Lady, I think that's a good start, but don't judge all of our women by these. The most proper high lady may be hopeless on a horse, and wicked when it comes to politics. Many of our women are very, very good at playing behind the scenes. But I do think you can loosen up a little out here in the country. I think you have to."

Lobella turned away again and pulled out a cloth to dry her face and try to repair the damage. "Thank you, Tellra. I think I needed this. I don't think I'll do anything too outrageous until after the banquet, but you're right, I can't live this way. Estaldo was trying to tell me that, too. I'm just not used to, to, I don't know. To doing what I think. To making up my own mind. I was always so bad at it."

Tellra laughed lightly. "My Lady, if I may be so bold, I doubt you were as bad at it as they made you think. I truly believe you may grow into your own here, if you let yourself. I know I'm genuinely pleased to have you here, as is Ardrel." She paused for a moment. "When I was a bit younger, I was the despair of my governesses. My older brothers spoiled me terribly. Dorel and I snuck out behind the barn, and he taught me archery. One day my governess came looking for me and I nearly skewered the poor thing."

Lobella surprised herself with a giggle. "My arms instructor was always searching for me in the archives, finding me covered in dust and buried in old volumes of who knows what."

Tellra smiled warmly at her. "It is strange to suddenly be valued for the very things we were disparaged for once. It must be stranger still to find yourself counted skilled at those things you thought yourself hopeless at once." She dimpled as their horses slowly made their way back to the others, ready to head back to the manor house. "I think you will find a place for all your skills and for yourself, and I think the women of Kahlzistan will be very happy for it." She eyed Lady Runderlock clinging desperately to her saddle. "Eventually."

Lobella giggled. "I'm afraid that may be a time in coming. But I do hope you're right."

***********************

Estaldo found himself nervous as he approached Lobella's dressing room door. He was totally unsure how this evening was going to go. He had barely seen Lobella the past two days. She had joined him in their bed as eagerly as ever last night, but she had seemed distracted after, not interested in talking as they had in the past. What little past they had in this new marriage, anyway. He was afraid tonight would be too much for her, although Tellra and Ardrel, and even Seneea had told him not to worry. That was enough to make him worry more.

Well, it was time, come what may. He sighed, straightened his tunic, and knocked on the door. It was only a moment before Seneea opened it, framing Lobella before him. She was a vision.

It was obvious what had occupied her time recently. The gown she wore was like nothing seen in Kahlzistan before. It was perfectly proper, covering her from neck to wrists to ankles. The bodice was fitted to her slender form, but not so tightly as to be uncomfortable or unseemly. The skirts were layered, and cleverly slit to show the various fabrics, all subtle variations of soft greens and blues. The sleeves flared above the wrists and echoed the layers of the skirts. An elegant train swept behind her as she stepped out to take his arm. Her blue eyes glowed picking up light from the silks she wore. Her hair was curled and pulled up in back, draping down her shoulders and dripping with lapis beads on silver strands. She was exquisite. She was exotic. The dressmakers would be busy for the next few months.

He smiled at his wife, and she smiled back. Something about her spoke a confidence he had only seen from her once, a glimpse in the midst of battle. He supposed she was going to do battle of sorts. "My Lady, Bella, you are beautiful. Shall we go make me the envy of every man in the kingdom?"

Her cheeks colored, but she answered gamely. "Yes, my Prince, let us do so." For a wonder, her head stayed high, and she strode proudly with him down the main stairs and into the ballroom. Emmet announced them formally at the door, and every person in the room turned to look. The crowd parted to form an aisle and he led her past her people. She seemed unsurprised as the people dropped to one knee at their passage. He wasn't sure how she felt about all this, but he hated it. Still, he supposed it was necessary to establish position, if he expected them to obey him later, and later was like to come sooner than he would wish.

They reached the chairs set for them on a small dais, and he guided her to turn and face their guests. She spoke before he could. "Please, ladies and gentlemen, rise and dance. I hear the chef has outdone himself, and the music was lovely as we entered. I look forward to meeting each of you tonight!" She smiled radiantly, and took his hand to seat herself. Bemusedly, he joined her as the music started and the crowd returned to their amusements. The buzz of conversation was a different key than before, and heads turned constantly in their direction. The rumors in the capital over the next couple weeks would be interesting.

The thought brought a grin to his lips just as the first of the forming reception line approached him. The man hesitated uncertainly as Emmet cued Estaldo with his name. "Lord Runderlock. Welcome, and to your wife as well. May I present Princess Lobella."

They bowed and curtseyed deeply, and Lobella greeted them. "Lord Runderlock, I have so enjoyed your wife's company this past few days. I do hope the new wheat crop is living up to your hopes?"

The elderly gentleman was only slightly less startled than Estaldo, and obviously gratified by her interest. Emmet successfully moved him on before he could delve into the further mysteries of wheat farming. The line moved on, and Lobella showed that she had indeed been trained as an ambassador's daughter, however inadequate her family may have felt her to be. Tonight, she shone. She seemed to have some personal snippet of interest about each and every one of them. Estaldo found himself jealous of the ease with which she did it. For all his studies, she far surpassed him.

Finally the line dwindled, and they had a moment to sip wine and speak together. "How did you do it?"

Her eyes twinkled as she glanced at him. "Do what, my Prince?" She nibbled a piece of cheese.

"How did you learn so much about so many people so quickly?" He found himself fascinated with her lips as she finished and answered him.

"You'd be amazed what women find to gossip about, my Prince. One need only listen. One would almost think they were men!" She caught his expression and laughed. "The slaves and courtesans at home gossip terribly, of course. They have little else to do. An ambassador's daughter is trained to refine her memory. It took only some good friends to rouse me from myself enough to pay a bit of attention." Her eyes went to Tellra, dancing with the handsome nephew of the Melderwilts.

"Estaldo, I don't know exactly how things are going to go, but I am determined, from here on, to take an active part in my life." She looked him straight on for a moment. "I want to thank you for the chance to do so. I don't promise anything, but I do want to try. I hope I don't get us dethroned in the process."

Estaldo coughed. "I doubt that, my love. But I don't think the occasional mild scandal will be such a bad thing for these people. You do understand what you've done for your country's silk markets tonight, don't you?"

She looked puzzled, then glanced down at her dress. "You really think so?"

"My Princess, you have started a fashion craze that will sweep the country. It's about time. It is much more attractive than anything in the last couple of decades. I do hope you and your ladies have more such ideas!"

She blushed with pleasure and he took her hand and kissed her knuckles, teasing them gently with his tongue before leading her out to dance with her people.

They danced and greeted people less formally, watching Patrick charm the young women and Ardrel dance with what must have been every male in the place between 14 and 40. The evening slowly aged and those who lived nearby entered their carriages to roll home, the older guests found their rooms, and the younger danced slower and strolled through the gardens.

Estaldo and Lobella found their way out to the terrace enjoying the cool air. Lobella told him of her plans for the gardens, and he watched her. The musicians started a new piece and he gathered her for another dance. He found another thing he liked about this new dress style. He pulled her close, and the sheer silks did little to hold them apart. Her arms went around him and her body pressed against his softly as they swayed in easy circles together. He breathed deep of the scent in her hair and felt her breasts against his chest. His heart beat a little faster and he ducked his head to taste her neck.

Patrick's tap on his shoulder startled him back to the very public terrace as he pulled away from Bella and let his friend swing her laughing around and around. Ardrel took his arm and grinned up at him. "Happy to see you two happy again! But I think there's been enough scandal for one night, oh Prince! Time to bid your guests goodnight." The song ended and he reclaimed his wife, flushed bright with delight. They signaled the musicians to pack up, and saw the end of the party out of the ballroom and up the stairs to their rooms.