Royal Machinations

(closed)

Richard Larrimore watched his youngest child and his only daughter as she danced. The dressmaker had done her job well. All of the other ladies and maidens were dressed in hues of pinks, scarlets and deep purples. These were the favorites of the queen. They mirrored the foreign queen in her elaborately coiffed hair with adornments of gold and pearls. They were all careful not to outshine the Queen. But he had told the dressmaker to make sure that his Jane was dressed simply and in a gown of a bright hue that no one else would be wearing. He had learned long ago that dressmakers, carriagemen, maids and gardeners were just as important in Court life as his peers were. They were often more helpful.

His Jane was his pride and joy. And this was her first appearance at court. He had decided early on that he wanted her to arrive at court when she was eligible for marriage without any of the guile that young women learned in court. If she was guileless, if she knew nothing of intrigue, then he could be the master of any courtship she had. She was a beauty and beauty made for good marriages. Good marriages had kept the Larrimores close to power. They were not a part of any royal family, but each generation had stealthily managed to marry up atleast one or two rungs of the social ladder. Both of his sons were married to women from wealth and prestige. His oldest was married to a distant cousin of the king himself. And now Jane was a young woman, nineteen years old. He hoped to secure a Baron or a perhaps even a foreign prince for her.

She was dancing with a young widower, George Prior. Her emerald green skirts swirled around her. Jane was laughing, her head thrown back. Her chestnut veil of hair fell down her back freely, a simple braid with a green ribbon as her only adornment. She wore no jewels save a golden St. Cecilia medal. The St Cecilia medal was strategic on Richard’s part. Cecilia was the patron saint of virgins, a gentle reminder to any suitor that she had been raised to be a wife and not a mistress.

Lord George Prior had lost his wife in childbirth. He had three young sons that needed a mother and vast lands, not to mention a fleet of merchant vessels that travelled the world. He was a suitable match, but Larrimore was sure that he might be able to find better. But it was a good sign that he had taken a shine to Jane her very first night at court. Richard watched Prior. Jane’s dress was simple but the bodice clung to her body exquisitely. He had told the dressmaker to make sure the dress fit perfectly, but to keep the neckline modest and the design free from any embellishment. Larrimore watched Prior appraising her figure. Jane’s cheeks were flushed and she was looking up at Prior with her doe eyes.

The Queen was not in attendance this night, she had excused herself to retire early. So, instead of the prim and proper dances she had brought from her homeland, the court was lively. Prior was swinging Jane, she was so slight, he almost lifted her off her feet. But then another young nobleman in his overexertion barreled into Jane. She tumbled onto the floor in a heap of her skirts. The music kept going for a few moments but all of the dancing came to a sudden halt.

Richard was about to rush to his daughter’s side, but before he could , something extraordinary happened. The King had rushed from his throne and was on one knee. His hand was cupped under her elbow and he was assisting her up. He had the same look on his face as George Prior. Larrimore could barely believe his own luck. He watched as the King ordered a chair brought for Jane. This was the very first time that the King had seen his Jane and he looked smitten.

Jane was blushing madly and was meekly trying to assure everyone that she was fine. But a chair was fetched along with a small glass of wine. The nobleman that had plowed into her was red faced and quite afraid of the glower the King had given him. He stood beside the King with his head hung low and his skin flushed scarlet. Larrimore waited a few moments. Then he made his move.

“Your Majesty, this is my daughter Jane. This is her first night at court, please excuse her clumsiness.” Larrimore watched and waited. If the King patted her head and handed her over to her father, there wasn’t much of a chance. But if he blamed the clumsy fellow and attended to her a bit longer, then the games would begin.

King William d'Artus relaxed in the throne as he watched members of the court enjoy themselves a little more freely after the departure of Queen Marielle. The youngest sister of the King of Selucia did not approve of such 'raucous displays' and had been pressing her own ideas of proper and civilized forms of entertainment on the somewhat reluctant people of Lyonesse.

He smiled and snorted softly as he recalled the events that brought about their very political union. He ascended the throne after the death of his father, King Albert the fourth, on the field of battle against Selucia. Their larger and more aggressive neighbour decided that the two port cities of Lyonesse, Lindum and Gomeree would help in making their kingdom greater. The then young man, merely 18 years of age, was crowned on his birthday, and took to the field the following day. In a two year campaign full of youthful aggression, risk taking, good use of seasoned troops, a great deal of bluff and a healthy serve of luck, William managed to convince King Roberre that Selucia was in threat of being lost, or sizable pieces of it. In another showing of bluff and subterfuge, William allowed Roberre to believe that he outwitted William when the treaty was signed. In return for the loss of a small amount of territory, lands lost by Lyonesse in the previous war with Selucia, and the marriage of William to Marielle, the fighting would cease.

William had no desire for extra lands full of a people that would dislike him at best, with a number of troops he could barely defend his own Kingdom with. But the political marriage would nail Selucia's feet to the floor. William knew that Selucia never attacked those that were joined by wedlock. That was what he was aiming for. Close to his 21st birthday, he and Marielle were married.

Fourteen years later, she had still not given him the heir he required of her. Not through lack of trying. He knew that Marielle wanted to fall pregnant as well, just so she could stop her husband from taking her in the bedroom so frequently. The only thing that made their marriage tolerable was that she was a Queen.

He was entertained by Mistresses through his marriage, but all of those women were wives of other men, all who were willing to allow the infidelities to go on due to the favour they received by their sacrifices. But he would not sire any children through them, for there would be questions concerning the father of the child. Many of the unmarried women were not of his liking, or they were kept away from the King.

He brought himself back to the present, reaching for his goblet and taking a sip to ease his thirst. He started to scan the room, looking for someone to share a dance with. Not to surprisingly, his eye was caught by one young woman who almost shone amongst the field of women present. He continued to drink as he watched her. There was something fresh about her. Not just the fact that he hadn't seen her before, but there was something about how she acted that intrigued him.

It was the over enthusiasm of one of the sons of noble families that gave William the excuse he needed to meet the young woman in question. The bungling fool crashed into the much smaller woman, sending her to the floor in a most unflattering manner. William was out of the throne without registering the thoughts to move. He had the good sense to put the goblet down before he was fully at his feet, and he covered the distance quickly.

William knelt beside the stricken young woman, his hand politely at her elbow to assist her in regaining her feet. Her face was a fine collection of delicate features grandly arranged into a beauty that was greater than the sum of the parts. As he widened his gaze about her face and neck, he noted a distinct lack of jewelry. Far from being a drawback, the lack of personal ornamentation ensured that the eye was not drawn away from her natural charms.

"Bring a chair and something for the young lady to drink," William spoke quietly to one of his servants that hovered nearby. He turned his attention to the clumsy nobleman, letting him know of the King's displeasure with just the expression on his face. The man had the good grace to look embarrassed over what he had done. William ignored the protests of the young woman, and helped her to sit and made sure that she had a sip to drink, while everyone around watched in wonder and speculation.

“Your Majesty, this is my daughter Jane. This is her first night at court, please excuse her clumsiness.”

William looked over at Richard Larrimore, his expression quizzical. "Jane's clumsiness? It was far from her clumsiness, Lord Larrimore." William gave the true offender another hard look, and the young man chose to find somewhere else to stand that was not in the King's ability to see.

"Don't be so quick to cast this fine young woman in a bad light, particularly your own daughter, Lord Larrimore. She can't be held to blame for the ill advised actions of one who should know better. It may be Jane's first time in court, but others are more well versed in proper behaviour."

He turned to look at Jane once more. "My Lady, when you have the time, I would like the honour of a dance with you. I think it would be proper of me to welcome you to Court, particularly after this terrible mishap. Of course, I shall allow you and Lord Prior to finish your dance before I take up any of your time.

"Lord Larrimore, if you would be so kind as to escort Jane off the dance floor, and allow her to continue fer recovery, we will resume the festivities, and let this minor blemish to pass."

Jane had tried to let the king know that she was no worse for her tumble. But she collected herself in the chair for a few moments. The king was as handsome as everyone had said. But it was more than his good looks that had Jane wideeyed. He commanded the room with just a look or a simple gesture. And when he told her father that it had not been her clumsiness, she had been struck by the warmth in the smile he had offered her. As much as she enjoyed being in the light of his attention, she was relieved that the music was going to being again and the others in the room were going to stop watching her.

"Thank you, your Majesty. I look forward to our dance." She curtsied when she stood and looked up at King through her lashes. Her father escorted her from the dancefloor and the music started up once again. Her father found them seats at the same table as George Prior. Lord Prior asked after her but she assured everyone that she was indeed fine. Jane watched as men and women paired off for the next dance. Lord Prior asked her to dance, but her father told him to wait a little while and give Jane a little while to collect herself.

The table soon moved to other conversations, much to Jane's relief. She was able to steal a glance at the king and she felt her cheeks flush again. Prior was talking about his fleet of ships and his travels. One of the young women at the table threw him her best smile and asked after his sons. He spoke of buying his oldest his first horse. The young woman began chattering about how much she loved to ride and she hoped to get the chance to ride soon. Her ploy to get an invite was laughable to Larrimore. There was no subtlty. One of the more formal dances of the Queen started and Prior excused himself from the conversation and offered his hand to Jane.

She took his hand but the dance was formal and intricate. She had to look at her feet and count the steps, she was only able to smile up at Prior a few times. The dance was comprised of small steps, pointed toes and a few instances of touching hands. Jane was glad to show everyone that she wasn't injured but she wished she hadn't agreed to such a formal dance.

Larrimore did his best to not watch the dance floor. He didn't want to be too obvious in his interest in who might be watching Jane. He engaged the table in conversation about the lovely young miss that had been fawning over Lord Prior. He complemented her gown and asked her about her love of riding and soon she was chattering away. Larrimore attempted to look enraptured by her words.

Jane was relieved when the tedious dance was over and she realized she had wrinkled her forehead in concentration. She laughed just a little and did her best to smile as Prior escorted her back to the table and her father. Her father was asking the chatty beauty about her father's stable of horses. Jane sat beside her father and was glad that she was no longer the center of attention.

William resumed his seat, casually taking up his goblet while he watched the court's reaction to his intervention. As he knew would happen, there was more than one quiet discussion about why he chose to do something about the mishap. He hid his smile behind the goblet. He had his reasons, but he was equally sure that no one present would be able to fathom out what they were.

Without giving too much away, he let his eyes follow Jane as she took to the floor once more. He easily saw her discomfort at the nature of the dance. He thought it might have been due to the partner, but the way she had been enjoying the previous dance ruled that out quickly. This caused some deep thought within the monarch. It was her first time at court, but then there were other ladies when they graced court for the first time, they were more at ease. Again, many came at a far younger age, allowing them to be better prepared for when they came of age.

'Did Larrimore keep her absented from court deliberately? If he has, what is that sly fox up to?'

The dance came to an end, and a much relieved Jane was escorted from the floor. William made up his mind that he would let the young woman sit for the next dance, before fulfilling his much looked forward to obligation. He watched the dancers, smiling and nodding to courtiers as they passed him. He paid little attention to Jane and her father while they sat. That would make people think that it was a mere passing gesture on his part to the young woman. Those that overheard him would know he was repaying his debt, as he declared.

As the music continued to play, William stood up and wandered around the edge of the dancefloor. He paused to speak with some of the more senior members of his court; the Duke of Lyon, his trusted advisor; the Duke of Markham, who rode at the King's side throughout the war, even going as far as letting a blow destined for his King wound him instead. Finally, he had some passing words with the Earl of Lankmast, reminding the old courtier of their meeting the following morning. When the music stopped, he had arrived at the table where the Larrimores were seated.

"My Lord Larrimore, with your permission, I would like to fulfill my earlier obligation to your daughter, and have a dance with her. Of course, if the young lady wishes."

William still maintained his health, though his was not as good as he was in his youth. But his tall body carried the slightly bulky frame well, some of the youthful muscle having been shed, and some natural padding around the middle was noticeable if one looked hard enough. His face was full, denoting the maturity that came with his middle years. His skin still had the healthy shine to it, his face clean shaven as it had been since his wedding. The thick, almost mane like brown hair rested at his shoulders, leaving his clear blue eyes to stand out.

He extended his arm towards Jane, a warm smile appearing, that added a new light to his eyes. "My Lady?"

Jane was talking to Lord Prior about archery when all fell silent at the table. Lord Prior had mentioned teaching his oldest son how to use the bow and arrow, and Jane had told him that her father had taught her along side her older brothers. She claimed to have excellent aim and Prior said that surely there would be games soon where Jane could show her skill. And then, there he was. The King was offering her his hand, and she took it. She felt delicate and small with his large hand wrapped around hers.

"I am honoured, your Majesty." Her voice trembled just a little but she did her best to smile and do as her elders had taught her. She did not want to appear awkward or afraid. The muscians were waiting for the king to take to the dancefloor and Jane silently prayed it would be one of dannces that she knew well as opposed to the refined dances of Queen Marielle. Much to Jane's delight after she took her place and curtseyed to the King, the music began in a lively reel that she had danced since childhood. She clasped one hand in his and his other hand rested at her waist, his strong hand seemed to almost encircle her.

"This is my favorite dance , your Majesty." Jane was already filled with joy as the music began to swell. In this dance, each man danced with his partner and then she was passed to the next man, round and round until she arrived back in his arms. When it came time for the women to change partners, Jane looked up at the King. "I will be back soon." There was laughter in her voice and soon, she was dancing from partner to partner. The women held their skirts up just enough to show a hint of petticoat and the tips of their satin slippers. Jane was a graceful and exuberant dancer, but she kept looking back at the King and smiling when she caught his eye. She made it around the circle and back to King William. And for the next part of the dance she got to stay in the confines of his strong arms.

Jane's cheeks were flushed and she was breathing deeply, making the bodice of her gown rise and fall, showing off her pert breasts.

"Your Majesty, I never imagined court could be so.... fun. My mother, before she died, she always told my father she wanted to keep me at home for as long as she could, so that I could keep my youth. But I am not sure that I have ever felt so young or so free as I have dancing tonight." She looked up at him and realized that she wasn't just talking to anyone, he was her king.

"Your Majesty, please forgive me if I am chattering away too much. I have forgotten myself."

Richard Larrimore looked up at the King, suppressing the smile at how well things seemed to be proceeding. He did, however, show his pleasure that his Majesty wished to dance with his daughter.

"I have no objections, Your Majesty."

William looked towards Jane, patiently waiting for the Lady to make up her mind. He would not be offended if the young woman decided not to dance, but he would get the dance eventually. Being her first time, he would allow her to reject his offer under the guise of lack of familiarity with the etiquette involved. To his pleasure, she accepted. Her hand felt tiny when she placed it within his.

"I am honoured, your Majesty."

"We are pleased you feel that way, but We are honoured that you have accepted Our token of apology."

He could tell the poor young woman was a trifle nervous, and it was not something that surprised him. With her hand in his, it reminded him how diminutive she was. It brought out a rather protective urge within him that he found odd. It was all soon pushed to one side as they reached their place on the dance floor. Her curtsey was graceful, and seemed to be in no way forced or practiced. He returned it with a bow of his own, showing her the respect that a noble woman of the court was due.

The music started, and William wanted to give the leader of the musicians a barony for his choice in music. The tone of the music was infectious on all of the dancers, and they almost literally jumped into the dance. For William, all other aspects of his dance partner faded as he just relaxed and enjoyed the dance.

"This is my favorite dance , your Majesty."

"Then We will make sure that you enjoy it." He saw how much she relaxed, which in turn made him happier. Again, that undefined something about her seemed to allow him to lower his guard a little and just be a man who wanted to have a dance.

"I will be back soon."

William easily and smoothly allowed Jane to move on to the next man, receiving the wife of one of the border baronies with Selucia. He treated her as he did Jane, letting the burdens of rule lift from his shoulders. His new partner seemed to pick up on the change, and made their time together pleasant as well. Each partner benefited from the rewards of Jane's presence on the King. He caught her looking at him a couple of times, and the smile she shared with him made him feel better.

There was a slight bit of prideful joy that the remainder of the dance would be with the original partner. William caught more than one jealous glance about their pairing. More than one woman wanted to dance with the King, and a few men wanted to have Jane within the circle of their arm. He noticed the rose tint to her face, coupled with the smile, made her entire face glow. He was practiced enough to keep his eyes on her face, fully aware of the effects of her dress while she breathed deeply.

"Your Majesty, I never imagined court could be so.... fun. My mother, before she died, she always told my father she wanted to keep me at home for as long as she could, so that I could keep my youth. But I am not sure that I have ever felt so young or so free as I have dancing tonight.

"Your Majesty, please forgive me if I am chattering away too much. I have forgotten myself."

"In some ways, My Lady, We can understand your mother's concerns. But it is more about the conduct of the person as to how fast they age. Some get far to caught up in matters that are none of their concern, and the burdens sap the life from them. But you? We feel that you will be a fresh breeze that carries the fragrances of the spring blooms to the awaiting noses of all within the Court." William chuckled softly, smiling to help ease Jane's concerns.

"If We may tell you a secret, We admit to liking hearing you chatter. Most times, when We are spoken to, it is with formal words, or about matters of grave concern. You have performed a great duty to the Crown this night by speaking to Us as if We were another man. Not your King."

The remainder of the dance passed, seemingly quickly to William. He liked holding Jane while they danced. Again, it was more protective than anything else. But the music ended, bringing the entire dancefloor to a stop. Partners bowed and curtsied to each other, and then paused in anticipation. William turned to the musicians, and applauded them. The rest of the dancers quickly followed his lead.

"Now We have discharged Our obligation to you, We shall leave you in the company of your father." William led Jane back to the table where her father was trying hard not to obviously try and read the situation. "But, please do not limit yourself to just these functions. It would bring Us great pleasure to have you attend court more frequently."

They arrived at the table. With a small nod to Jane, he handed her back to her father.

"Lord Larrimore, Our compliments to you and your late wife on how you have raised your daughter. She is an honour to her family. Plus, she is a perfect dance partner." William nodded to the others at the table, before walking around the edge of the dance floor and sitting in his throne. He took up his goblet, and resumed watching the ebb and flow of the court, remarkably more relaxed that when he initially stood up.

Jane had thouroughly enjoyed her dance with the King. And now sitting beside her father, she too was soaking up the merriment of the evening. Lord Prior asked her to dance, as did Philip Price, the young man who had knocked her over. He was full of apology and his effusiveness was making Jane wish that he would let her forget the matter entirely.

After her dance with Price, her father excused them from the table to retire for the evening. Her father escorted her to their family apartment in the palace. Her father had had a small bedroom readied for her. Jane was excited to embark on life at court as much as she loved her home. Larrimore patted her head once they got inside.

“You did remarkably well, my Janie. Perhaps you will be chosen to attend the Queen. You were a well sought after dance partner.” She nodded, slipping her shoes off of her tired feet as he talked to her. Larrimore was careful not ask her about the King, nor to shift her interest towards any of her possible suitors. He wanted her above all else, to be able to be portrayed as innocent, in any scheme he might be able to manage. Prior was a good prospect, but he knew he could do better. And then there was the King. Well, it was a fine idea to dally with, but the Queen could announce that she was with child at any moment, and any attempt on his part would be foiled.


Jane bid her father goodnight and made her way to her bedchamber. A maid helped her out of her gown and wearing her shift she slipped into bed. The linens felt cold, but Jane did her best to snuggle in and get warm. She closed her eyes and she could still feel the spins and swells and falls of the dancing, she could imagine the crisp, bright notes of the music. With a smile on her face, Jane drifted to sleep and dreampt of dancing.


The following day many of the young women at court were gathering to sew clothing for the poor. Larrimore sent Jane to join them. She was gifted with a needle and she looked forward to getting to know the other young women. The girls were seated in a large circle chatting as they mended, hemmed and sewed. Jane had her sewing basket in hand and found an empty chair. The chatterbox from the night before was seated a few seats away from her.
“Aren’t you Jane Larrimore?” She asked with a little sneer. Jane nodded and picked up on of the garments to begin work on. “I am Temperance Gilden. I was at your table last night. Were you hurt when you tripped and fell?” Her voice was sticky sweet but it was punctuated with laughter. A few of the other girls were giggling as well.

Jane blinked a few times but did her best to answer sweetly.
“I am no worse for the fall. Thank you for inquiring.” Jane kept her head down and listened to the conversations around her. These young women were at court to curry favor for their families and find a husband. And in truth, she knew that that was her purpose as well. However, she wanted to enjoy the experience and her father had made it clear to her that she did not have a say in such matters. She was to allow him and her family to secure for her an honorable and secure husband.

“Lord Prior may invite me to go riding. I was telling him last night just how much I love horses and he just bought a hunter for his son.” Jane smirked at how Temperance was telling the tale, but she felt no need to correct her. Lord Prior did not look at all anxious to invite her anywhere.
The morning passed quickly for Jane as she mended the discarded clothing that was going to be given to the poor. She was adding a row of decorative stiches when she felt someone watching her. She looked up to see some of the ladies in waiting checking in. Her sister in law Abigail was among them. Abigail smiled at her but said nothing.


When the last of the clothing was finished, it was packed into baskets. It would be taken to the poor of the city, a gift from the Queen. Queen Marielle came into the room and all of the girls rose and curtsied. Jane looked up through her eyelashes in awe. Marielle was tall and regal. Her dress was a deep purple color and was trimmed with golden ribbons and crystals. Her hair was hidded under a golden hood.

“These clothes will go to clothe the most needy of our Kingdom. The King and I offer our thanks to you for your charity.”Her clipped and formal words rang throughout the greatroom. And then with a rustle of her sweeping skirts, she exited with her ladies in waiting in line behind her.

William remained seated for the rest of the dances. His eyes strayed to Jane from time to time, but nothing to attract attention to them, not even from the sharpest royal gazers in the court. When the last strains of the the last song faded, William stood up.

"Nobles, Lords, Ladies and Gentles all. We thank you all for coming this eve to enjoy the splendors of our court. It is our hope that you all sleep well. Good night everyone."

A chorus of well wishes reverberated through the room as they court bade good night to the King, as well as other revelers. He left via a different door, making his way back to the royal chambers. To his surprise, he found Marielle lying in the main bed.

"You missed a fine night, my wife. The court was saddened at your departure."

"There is no need to speak of things unlike how they were. I am sure that the court enjoyed themselves more without my presence stifling their desire for less courtly activities."

"Yes, we are not as formal as your homelands, but my people do what they do from their hearts."

William slowly undressed, keeping in mind his wife's delicate notions of what was acceptable to be shown to another person, even their own spouse. He was still surprised that she was so uncomfortable with nakedness, even with her husband. William did not care whether she saw him naked, or the other way around. Even still, Marielle was easy on the eyes, and he wouldn't say no to seeing her as God created her.

"I have been speaking with the Midwife, as well as consulting with the Court Astrologer, my husband. Both, unknown to the other, believe that no is a time where I may fulfill my one outstanding obligation to the Crown." Even as she spoke, her face took on a look of a discomfort.

"Very well then. Let us not interfere with your obligations." William stripped completely, already aroused at the prospect of having sex. He wasted little time climbing into bed, laying beside her. Marielle widened her legs, allowing his hand to come to rest above her sex. With practiced ease, he got her aroused, then climbed over her. They shared a look of understanding, before William eased himself into her.

Well into the night, William filled her womb with his seed many times, until he was not longer capable of giving her any more. They shared one kiss as he withdrew, the same look of understanding being shared between them. Limp and spent, William rolled to one side, and slipped into a deep sleep.


The next day was taken up with the function of Court. William heard petitions all day, as well as meeting with a few nobles over matters of state. Marielle had remained in their bed for most of the morning, and attended to other matters on behalf of the royal couple. By the day's end, William felt worn out. Again, that night, Marielle shared the bed, once more trying to grant William an heir. He was certain that once a healthy child was born, she would cease her duty. The thought of having sex with someone from Lyonesse was almost disgusting to her. She only tolerated it because he was a King, and it was her royal duty.


William called his seneschel to him as he broke fast the next morning. "I will be hosting a picnic in the palace grounds tomorrow. Invite the usual people, as well as Lady Jane Larrimore and her father. And put it on the invitation that way too."

The morning was taken with reading messages, and planning on how to deal with some of the more trickier matters of state that seemed to be hard to rid himself of. There were some bandit activities near the border with Selucia that William was getting rather suspicious about. The main problem with that was proving, or disproving, their involvement. Plus there were the developments with Umbria, Galatia and Cappadocia. His efforts with both of the other kingdoms were showing promise. If he was able to sway Cappadocia into some form of alliance, he could step less lightly around Selucia. But there was still much work to be done to firm up the relationship between the two nations.

William called in his advisors, and spent the rest of the day discussing options about how to bring the two kingdoms together. The discussions were fruitful, including some trade opportunities that would benefit both nations.


William was looking forward to the next social gathering when he awoke that same morning. The last two days had been full of heavy weighty matters, and he needed the time to unwind a little. When the hour finally arrived, William made his way to the grounds that had been readied for the Royal Picnic.

As he had guessed, a number of the Court had already arrived, and were already socializing and scheming merrily amongst themselves. He allowed himself to wander freely, greeting his guests and taking a little time to speak to each of them. All the while, he was looking out for one specific guest, hoping that she had accepted his invitation, and came along to once more bedazzle him with her charms and personality.

On a blanket sprawled under and oak tree, Jane watched the festivites around her. The sunlight filtered down on her through the leaves overhead. Her hair was braided back off of her face and tied with pale green and pink ribbons. Her gown was pale green linen and roses embroidered with her own needle decorated the hem of her skirts.

Her father stood near by talking to Duke Fowler. The Duke was a widower. He was a long time friend of her father and atleast ten years his senior. She knew that her father was considering him as a prospective husband for her. Gregory Fowler had a reputation for being a bit of a rake. It was known that he kept several mistresses and he had already had two young wives that had died in childbirth. Fowler kept smiling over at her and Jane felt his eyes on her even when she looked away. It wasn’t at all what Jane wanted for herself, but her father had very sternly reminded her that she had no say in the matter with just a scowl and a glance.

Jane opted not to focus on her father and Fowler. She surveyed the crowd. Temperance Gilden was flocked by several young men. She was laughing and prattling on senselessly.Temperance had her hand resting on Lord Prior’s arm. Jane found herself rolling her eyes. She stood up and brushed off her skirts. Jane wandered through the gathering. She was relieved that she hadn’t had to join into any conversations. For a moment she wished she was at home.

Jane strolled between the rows of hydrangeas and roses. The fragrance in the breeze reminded her of the gardens of her country home. She smelled the blooms and watched the bees and the butterflies. She watched the bees collect pollen on each of the blossoms and then fly away. She stood so very still not wanting them to fly away.

“What are you up to, Little Jane?” A deep male voice startled her from her observations. It was Lord Prior. He had somehow managed to extract himself from Temperance Gilden. Jane did her best to smile at Lord Prior.

“I was just watching the bees. They were all out collecting for their Queen. Royal subjects.” She offered with a laugh.
He looked at her oddly and then offered her his arm.

“You should join the party. You look wistful and lonely wandering by yourself.” Jane tried to explain that she was not at all sad, that she was just enjoying the sights and smells of the gardens. But she could tell that he wasn’t really listening. She took his arm and he escorted her back to the party.

She watched the crowd, wondering if the King would arrive. Lord Prior introduced her around and more than once she winced when he called her Little Jane Larrimore as if she were a child.

Jane spotted swans floating on a small pond. She found bread on the table before her and managed to slip away to feed them. She broke the bread into small pieces and then she tossed them to the pair of swans. She peeked over her shoulder to make sure that no one was looking and she slid off her shoe and dipped just her toes in the cool water.

William wandered without any real course laid out in his mind. He mostly wanted to allow those that wanted to see him to see him, speak their minds and leave him in peace. Most merely wanted to be seen with him, or to have their names and faces lodged in his memory, either for some past request, or in preparation for something to come.

He did bump into Richard Grayhelm, the Duke of Markham. If he weren't in finely tailored garments, he would easily be mistaken for some peasant drunkard brawler that lived in the taverns in the country. A large man, heavy bones and even heavier muscles, his face bore testimony to many a close call with the enemy. His nose was broken at least once in the past, and a blade opened his left cheek nearly from ear to chin. Still a man in his late twenties, he was a jovial man who had a firm love of life.

"Sire," Richard said with a polite bow, "this was a grand idea. It gives the court a chance to spread out a little, and not be looking over one's shoulder all the time for fear of stepping on some courtier or lady of substance."

"Richard, it is good to see you here. Yes, I wanted to look at the people under normal sunlight for a change as well." He looked around, nodding to a passing member of court. "Plus, it does give one the chance to bend the elbows rather safely."

"Did you invite the young lady that fool Price knocked over?"

William gave his friend a sly look. "Yes, I have indeed. Though I will counsel strongly against chasing her, unless you are looking to make it a permanent arrangement."

Richard's mangled face twisted as his eyebrows rose closer to his wheat coloured hair. "Well... since you seem to have taken a shine to the young lady, I -"

"Not like that, Richard. I will admit to liking her, but I have no desire to bed the woman. She is different. Fresh and alive. She speaks freely, not trying to honey her words like others do. I can speak to her like I can with you. You talk to me as a friend, not as a subject. She has a similar potential. That said, I'd not like anything like that to happen to her."

"As you wish, Sire. I will not chase the lady's skirt as I have others."

"Thank you, Richard. Now, go. Feast for your stomach, and your heart as well. I have others to speak with, and to find." William reached out and shook Richard's hand before slapping his friend on the back as they parted.

William wandered some more, continuing his search for Jane. He had decided to wander somewhere quiet, so he could avoid the ever present series of disruptions that occurred. He walked around some of the larger plants, hedges and trees, using them to obscure himself from the remainder of the Court. He had all but given up trying to find Jane when he saw her. There was little doubt it was her. The simplicity of her dress, again favouring green, made it easy for William to confirm it was her.

He paused and watched as she fed some bread to the swans, who cautious approached the offerings. Again, her actions were free of selfishness and her thoughts deemed to focus on the birds themselves. But then, he witnessed the first act of selfishness from her. With great care and caution, she looked around to see if she was being watched, before slipping a bare foot into the water. William was amused that such an act was one that required such care and attention from her.

"There are penalties for such brazen acts, my Lady," William spoke as walked up to her. "In this specific case, it is the Crown's decision that you shall spent time with the King, speaking to him in polite conversation until such time as He releases you."

William's smile was warm and genuine. When he finally closed on the young woman, he picked up her hand, gently kissing her knuckles before releasing it.

"Again, We must compliment you on your attire. We find it to be very flattering, as well as a pleasant change from the excessive finery worn by some of the ladies in Court. Do you not think that a dress should compliment the wearer, drawing out her natural beauty, rather than pulling the eye away from it?"

Jane startled just a little bit when she heard the warm voice of the King. She almost stumbled, which made her smile spread all the way to her eyes when she realized how silly, she must look. She curtseyed and before she knew it, his lips were brushing against her hand.

"Your Majesty, I am afraid that these slippers are pinching my feet and your pond was just too tempting." Jane's doe eyes looked up at William. She blushed when he complemented her dress.

"I love things that are clean and simple. Just look at this garden. All the flowers need are their lovely colors, they don't need anything else. I was watching the bees earlier as the went out collecting for their Queen. Sometimes there is such peace and loveliness in unexpected places. But then Lord Prior came to rescue me , 'Little Jane', from my boredom. But I wasn't bored at all. I was just enjoying the beauty of the garden and enjoying the absence of prattling."

Jane found herself playing with her skirts, swishing them as she talked. The king spoke to her as if she were the only guest at the picnic and she felt as if that were insight into his character. It was generous and warm for him to be so kindly to her.

Jane saw her father noticing her conversation with the king. He was still talking to the Duke and Jane could not help the shiver that travelled up her spine.

"Your Majesty, my father seems anxious to marry me off. I wish that he would allow me to get my feet stable underneath me here at court." She sighed deeply and then found herself wondering if she had overstepped her bounds. She bit her lip, reminding herself that she was talking to the king.

Out of the corner of her eye, Jane watched as her father disengaged himself for the Duke. He began to stride across the grounds. Jane felt some of her confidence and spirit escape as her father approached.

Even caught completely off guard, to William's eye she maintained an honest quality about herself that he found quite endearing. He started to realize that there was an openness to her as well. Everyone else veiled themselves before him, presenting a facade that he had to work to penetrate. Here was one member of court that either hadn't the time to create one, or just didn't see a need. He hoped that it was the later.

"Your Majesty, I am afraid that these slippers are pinching my feet and your pond was just too tempting."

"Well, We are pleased to see that as far as temptations go, it was worthy. Though We might suggest that you speak to the maker of your slippers and have them made properly. But never let that stop you from easing your feet in the waters about the palace."

He was surprised at the slow creep of colour to her cheeks as he complimented her choice of dress. His assessment of her was correct. She was open and honest, even if she were not aware of it. He wondered if she would retain those qualities, or if the court would compel her to be more like those that lurked there before her. But rather than letting unpleasant thoughts ruin his time with Jane, he focused on her voice, letting the clarity of it cleanse his mind.

"I love things that are clean and simple. Just look at this garden. All the flowers need are their lovely colors, they don't need anything else. I was watching the bees earlier as the went out collecting for their Queen. Sometimes there is such peace and loveliness in unexpected places. But then Lord Prior came to rescue me , 'Little Jane', from my boredom. But I wasn't bored at all. I was just enjoying the beauty of the garden and enjoying the absence of prattling."

"Little Jane? How impolite of him. And when it comes to prattling, you are not the only one that would like to spend time away from it. Some members of court seem to believe that We are interested in the most minute of details concerning matters that are of no interest. Just having the chance to speak to someone who is not trying to gain favour directly or not, is almost a Godsend."

William only started to notice that with Jane's relaxed state, he too was relaxing. He had forgotten the last time he was able to let his guard down, even a little, and be himself. Within the presence of this young woman, he found himself starting to not feel the need to be so guarded. It was truly relaxing just to talk to someone, and not worry about hidden meanings.

"Your Majesty, my father seems anxious to marry me off. I wish that he would allow me to get my feet stable underneath me here at court."

"If We may be so bold, it would have to do with a certain air of freshness that you bring with you. You lack the hard edges and jadedness that many longer term members of the court seem to have. These are of course of high appeal to many. We will confess, that it is those same qualities that made Us seek you out, just to have some delightful talk with someone."

William caught the change in the direction Jane was looking, and saw Lord Larrimore heading their way. He had seen Jane's father speaking with Duke Fowler. If the man was thinking of marrying Jane to Fowler, he would have words with her father. Even politically, it would be a wasted union.

"Your Majesty," Larrimore spoke with a bow, "I hope that my daughter has been a worthwhile talking companion?"

"Indeed she has, my Lord. Our compliments again to you and your late wife on her upbringing."

"If I may, Your Majesty, I have need to speak with Jane and -"

"You may speak with her later, My Lord. You have more time available to speak with her than I do. I will not allow you to squander it with irrelevant details. You have Our permission to withdraw, Lord Larrimore."

Richard Larrimore bowed, his shock and confusion clearly evident on his face. he gave his daughter a meaningful glance before walking off.

"Don't let your father's displeasure be directed at you, Jane. If he feels any rancour toward you, inform Us immediately, and We will clarify matters with him.

"Please, with all honesty, tell me of your thoughts of Our Court thus far? It is Our hope that it will not bore you, or displease you too greatly. What are you looking forward to the most about your time here?"

Jane had visibly stiffened when she saw her father approach and she was sure that her refuge with the King was about to be destroyed. But when the King dismissed her father, even though her father gave her a scathing look, she felt at ease once again. She watched as Fowler scowled when her father shrugged his shoulders at him.


King William asked her to give her honest assessment of the court. She was surprised that he had to ask people to be honest. She could imagine the false flattery and pretense he encountered at every turn. She took a deep breath and tucked her hair back over her shoulders before she spoke.


“Your Majesty, your court is lovely. Yesterday, I spent the day with the Queen’s maids in waiting. We sewed for the poor. My mother was…” She tried to weigh her words, not to protect the King, but to guard the memory of her mother. It took her a moment to find the right words.

Her mother had been too gentle and too fragile for the political life her father had led. He was at court currying favor and her mother had faded from one illness into another. “My mother was delicate. She spent much of the time in sickbed. But she taught me to sew and embroider. So, I truly enjoyed the sewing. It is peaceful to me to watch the thread transform the fabric into something new. However, it seems though that all of the young women know each other and I only know Lady Gilden. I am hoping to get to know some of the other maids in waiting.”


They began to stroll through the gardens. Jane kept talking since the King looked at her expectantly.

“My brother, Josiah and his wife Abigail are here at court. When my mother died, my father was at a loss. For some time he raised me very much like my brothers. I learned to ride and he taught me archery and I had the same tutors as my brothers. But when Josiah came of age and married Abigail, Abigail began making sure that I was learning the things a Lady needs to learn. We embroidered the roses on this dress, together. It is good to get to see her again. She has always been kind to me.” Jane swished the skirts of her dress, showing the King the stitchery at the hem. Her face was alight as she spoke of her childhood and her friend and sister Abigail.


Jane was oblivious to the eyes on them as they walked. She was sure that the eyes of the court were just on the King, because he was the King. She didn’t notice the whispers and the sideways glances. Nor did she notice he father trailing behind them as he talked to Abigail in hushed tones. Larrimore made sure to be several lengths behind the strolling pair.


Jane cleared her throat gently. “Your Majesty, may I ask a question?” She waited for him to nod his head. “What is your assessment of your court?”

William listened to Jane talk, responding to his questions and filling him in on some of the background. He found himself fascinated over things that he would normally dismiss from his mind. Again, it was the way she spoke to him about things, being open and honest about what she spoke of. Even the pause to gather her thoughts about her mother was not one in preparation to colour her words to please his ears, she was wanting to preserve the memory of her late mother. It was something that garnered much respect from the Royal.

She paused, then in a way he thought was rather nervous, Jane cleared her throat gently.

“Your Majesty, may I ask a question?” He was about to tell her that she could, but merely nodded instead rather than potentially embarrassing her. “What is your assessment of your court?”

He stopped and gave her a hard look for a second. He was completely taken by surprise at the question she put to him. The very question he put to her. She proved herself in that one question to be a most remarkable woman. His stony expression faded into a broad, warm smile that in turn vanished as he laughed loudly. It was an eruption of pure joy that echoed through the lawns of the palace. As the laughter died down, he resumed his walking, ignoring the influx of courtiers who had rushed to see the source of the King's merriment.

"Our assessment would be that it is a viper's nest loaded with sycophants to add something extra to the mix. Oh, don't get Us wrong, Lady Larrimore, there are a few good men and women amongst them, ones worthy of their titles, but they are few and far between. Most are here to further their own goals, and if they match with Ours, then more the better for them.

"I do remember your mother. She was very delicate, and her arrival at Court seemed to make her wilt and fade. It was a pity, for she was a most pleasant soul, and always found time to be social with a young hellion prince. Don't mistake anything I say about her, I was fond of her, but she was a loyal and dutiful wife who did nothing that would cause scandal for her families."

He came to a stop again, and turned to look at Lord Larrimore and Lady Abigail. His expression turned to one of mild displeasure, and was joined by a slight turn of his head back to the main part of the picnic. Lord Larrimore looked confused, until William raised his hand enough to flick off to one side. Richard blanched. Lady Abigail moved quickly but discreetly taking Lord Larrimore back to the main part of the gathering.

"It seems that your Sister in Law is quicker on the uptake than your father is. We understand his desire to ensure your safety, but you are in Our presence, so your safety is beyond reproach. Also, this is hardly the right place to take advantage of a young lady such as yourself. If We were so inclined. But We would not insult you by being so rash and vulgar. Also, I would not do such things to a friend. It wouldn't endear me well, would it?"

They walked further into the gardens, but not far enough to shelter them from the background noise of the Court in full gossip.

"Now that we are well beyond the reach of other ears, I can now be William again for a little while at least. Your father is looking for a husband for you. He has been rather cunning with his preparations, I might add. He is a clever man. If it were possible, I would grant him a greater title and put him to better use. Anyway, what kind of husband appeals to you Jane?" He motioned her to a seat, waiting until she had her place before he joined her. "I am sure that you have some thoughts concerning the kind of man you would like to spend your life with. There are a few at Court that are not suitable for you, regardless of the political benefits there may be. Fowler for one. He will not marry you, I can ensure that.

"Please... forgive me for overstepping my bounds. Let's turn our attention to other more enjoyable matters. Would you care to become more known about the Court? Gain some more friends? Maybe even some real ones?"

Jane hung her head when she saw the King have to shoo her father and Abigail back to the crowd of courtiers. He said nothing to her of the intrusion but she knew that she would be questioned by her father when he got her alone. She dreaded her father's displeasure and his questions. But Jane also knew that her father's control was unavoidable and so she tried to focus on the moment.

The King offered her a seat and then sat beside her. When he asked her about her desires for marriage, she was taken aback. Her father had always made it clear that marriages were made to accomplish goals for a family. She had not been raised on stories of fairy tale with romance and grand love. She knew her parents were not a love match. Her father had chosen her mother because she had been an heiress with a title and expansive lands. He had also chosen her because she was radiant and well mannered, she had all of the prospects of being an elegant and accomplished hostess. However, her delicate nature had caused her to fade away. When the King mentioned Fowler, she visibly flinched.

"Your Majesty, I know that a young woman of station does not necessarily get to fall in love and marry the man of her choice. But Fowler frightens me. He looks at me like he is.... hungry." She shivered as she spoke. "If I were to dream about choosing a husband. I would want a husband that wanted a family and a home, a man that was loyal to the crown. "

She paused for a moment and bit her lip. She had a few thoughts about a husband, but she had never shared them. She looked into the King's eyes for a few moments and then decided to tell him.

"We had a tutor, when I was a child. He fell madly in love with the daughter of a groundskeeper. I saw him kiss her once. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her as if her touch made his heart stop. If I got to choose my husband, I would choose a man that wanted me as his wife. A man that touched my face and looked at me as if I was all that he had ever wanted." She smiled and shook her head.

Her cheeks were flushed deeply and she found herself blinking back emotion. She found her smile again when the King asked her if she wanted to get to know some of the members of his court.

"Your Majesty, I would like to know some people. I was at a bit of a loss the other day with maids in waiting. I would be very honored if you would introduce me. I would very much like to have friends here. Abigail is often with the Queen and she is my only friend here, other than you, Your Majesty."

William listened to Jane explain her answer to his question. He was so relaxed about this woman. He felt that he could speak to her plainly, not guarding his words. Still he had to be careful, as she could speak of matters to others. But something in his gut told him he could trust her. He hoped that she felt the same in return.

"Don't be too upset about what I did to your father and his conversation companion. It is not your fault, and I will ensure that your father is aware that you were not pleased with my actions. But I did not want courtiers following me while I am trying to relax for one of the few moments that I can do so."

But the most telling thing for him was the blush at the end of her reply. Even he had to admire the desire to have a woman who felt that way. When younger, William felt the pull of attraction to a young noblewoman, but she was pledged to another within the court. She smiled at him in a way that melted his heart, every time she smiled. Even then, he knew that there would be another woman for him, one that would strengthen the ties between the Royal family and another power bloodline. He had overheard talk of other princesses that would be suitable matches. His own marriage was one of politics, pure and simple. There was barely any respect between them and everything they did was merely their duty.

"Your Majesty, I would like to know some people. I was at a bit of a loss the other day with maids in waiting. I would be very honored if you would introduce me. I would very much like to have friends here. Abigail is often with the Queen and she is my only friend here, other than you, Your Majesty."

William sat back, staring at the clouds that waddled through the sky. He worked through a list of women he knew that might be good candidates for Jane to be with. A slow smile crossed his face as one name came to mind.

"Well, let Us see if we can find the Duchess of Gomeree. She is a most wonderful of women, and she will make a fine companion for yourself. More properly, you will make a fine companion for her. She is a few years older than you, but she is often in court without her husband. She is loyal to him, and the Crown, but she is often alone while here." William stood up, offer his hand to Jane to help her stand. "Please accept this offer of help from your friend, rather than your King."

Once they were both standing, William lead Jane back to where the remainder of the court were milling about. He knew that they would both be scrutinized closely by the sharp eyed members of the Court, looking for the tell tale signs of some dalliance between the King and the young woman. He inwardly laughed, as they would find no such evidence. He saw Larrimore rise from where he was sitting, but the slightest motion of William's hand paused Larrimore in his tracks.

William saw the person he was after. and walked over towards Claudia. She was slightly taller than most women, and her dress spoke of her shapely body. Even the bodice declared much about her without being obscene. When she turned to face the approaching King and Lady, her deep blue eyes widened slightly, bringing a splash of colour to her naturally pale face.

"Your Majesty," Claudia curtsied gracefully. William returned it with a respectful bow.

"Your Grace, We would like to introduce to you Lady Jane Larrimore, who has recently decided to join Our Court. Lady, this is Lady Claudia, Duchess of Gomeree. We were telling Lady Jane that you frequently come to Court while your husband is busy with affairs of his Court, and that you do not have many companions to spend time with. We thought that Lady Jane would make an excellent companion for you during those times. You know the various courtiers well, and could hopefully ease Lady Jane into the Court."

"I would be honoured, Your Majesty. Also, having a Lady companion would be nice for me as well. But, are you sure that I am the best one for Lady Jane?"

"Indeed, you are, for the very reasons that cause you doubt." The look she gave William was questioning. William grinned softly, and shook his head. Claudia seemed to relax slightly, before turning to give Jane a friendly smile.

"Now, my Ladies, We must excuse ourselves and go and speak with another member of the Court." William bowed to the Duchess, then to Jane. He made his way directly to Richard Larrimore. William knew that his actions would set the Court alight with rumours. He also was looking forward to hearing what was gong to be said.

"Lord Larrimore, We will have a word with you." Everyone else near by departed quickly, but trying to remain close enough to hear or see anything interesting. "We will speak plainly concerning your daughter, My Lord. We are very interested in her future, as she is quite a special woman. It is Our decision that before any announcement of marriage involving Lady Jane, We shall give Our consent to the union. If she is wed without it, you My Lord, will suffer for it. With that in mind, Lady Jane will not wed Fowler. His Grace has taken two fine women from us, and We will not accept his removing a third."

Richard looked stunned, then angry, which he quickly hid. "Your Majesty, I am honoured that you have decided to take an interest in my daughter's future. It raises my spirits that your wisdom will help guide me in finding a good match for her." Inside, he seethed at the thought of the King's direct interference with his plans regarding his daughter. Not even the thought that this might be the King's way of protecting his next paramour did little to calm his emotions. He was her father, and it was his decision and his alone concerning who his daughter would marry.

"Also, I have arranged for Lady Jane to be the companion of Duchess Claudia whenever Her Grace attends Court. Her Grace was very pleased to have Jane as a companion."

It took every last drop of self control for Richard not to react to that news. Duchess Claudia was one of the King's mistresses, and his favourite if the rumours were to be believed. Richard was busy trying to work out the reasons and motivations for that move that he almost missed William speaking again.

"Her Grace will help Jane get to know others within the Court, and gather new friends. We must thank you for finally bringing her to Court, My Lord. She is a fine addition, a young woman of rare quality."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. With your Majesty's permission, I would seek to withdraw."

"Of course, My Lord. Go forth and enjoy the food and grounds." William started to wander off towards one of the tables loaded with food. He walking and talking had made him hungry.

Jane surveyed the Duchess through her eyelashes. She was atleast a head taller than Jane and her strawberry blond hair was artfully arranged in perfect curls. Her perfectly tailored gown was the same startling blue as her eyes. The dress showed off her statuesque figure. Jane suddenly felt very dowdy in her pale linen gown. Jane found herself biting her lip as she watched the King walk away.

“It is gracious of you to agree to take me under your wing.” Jane’s voice trembled as she spoke and Lady Claudia could not help but smile at her.

“Of course, Lady Jane.” Claudia rested her arm on Jane’s. “So you are Richard’s daughter?” Claudia’s voice was light as she asked but she looked over to where the King was instructing Lord Larrimore. Larrimore looked as if he was biting his tongue. His face was reddened. Claudia looked at Jane and saw her worry. “Don’t fret. Whatever it is, the King will have him pacified in no time.”

Claudia led them through the sea of courtiers. Jane did her best to remember all of the names and titles as Claudia effortlessly conversed with one person after another. Claudia brought Jane to a silken tent where several ladies were shielding themselves from the gentle light of dusk. Jane almost froze in her tracks when she saw that it was the Queen and her attendants.

“Have you met the Queen?” Claudia asked as if the Queen were just some other woman. Jane shook her head and Claudia ushered her into the tent. The Duchess and Jane dropped their heads and curtseyed.

“Your grace, whom have you brought with you this evening.” Jane looked up at the Queen. She was truly beautiful. She looked perfect as if painted. Her golden hair was swept up and twisted off of her face with hundreds of pearl headed pins. The Queen’s green eyes narrowed as she surveyed the Duchess.
“Your Majesty, this is Lady Jane Larrimore. The King asked me to help her get to know the court, it seems Lady Jane is new at court.” There was something playful in her voice, Jane found herself looking between the Queen and the Duchess tryingg to figure out the dynamic between them. But before Jane could come to a conclusion her sister in law Abigail was speaking.

“My Queen, this is my little sister, well, Josiah’s little sister. But I feel as if she is my own.” Abigail smiled brightly but her eyes were hard as she looked at the Duchess. The Queen’s face relaxed.

“Abigail, any sister of yours is my dear friend. Welcome to court, Lady Jane. Perhaps on some occasion you can join my maids in waiting.”
Jane struggled to find her voice. “Thank you, your Majesty.” She and the Duchess curtseyed again and backed out of the tent. Claudia groaned as soon as her back was turned and they were on their way towards the banquet tables.

Before Jane could fix her plate, her father was at her elbow.

“Your grace, pardon my interruption but I need a word with Jane.” He did not wait for an answer. His fingers curled around Jane’s elbow and bit into her skin through her sleeve. “Smile.” He hissed at her. He did not let go, even after they arrived in their appartment.

“What did you tell the King? What sort of schemes are you planning in that pretty little head of yours?” His voice was filled with venom and he shook her as he spoke. Jane was wideeyed. In all of her life she had never seen her father so angry, atleast not at her. He had never raised a hand to her or had a cross word to her, even when she broke a dish or run through the house like a harridan. “What did you tell him?”

Jane stammered. “I told him that I knew a woman of my station does not get to choose her husband.” She blinked back tears and watched as her father collected herself.

“You don’t feel well, you got too much sun. You need to go to bed.” Jane nodded and rushed off to her room.

Larrimore cursed himself, but he headed back to the picnic to check in with Abigail.

William stood at one of the tables, partaking of the various morsels of food that decorated the table. He was enjoying a rare peace while he dealt with his hunger. While he ate, he wondered what he was doing that was keeping the courtiers at bay. He wasn't sure if his time with Jane was keeping them busy with their gossiping, or if it was the way he was holding himself while he ate.

But he did manage to see Lord Larrimore escorting his daughter from the picnic. William was observant enough to see that Jane's father was not happy with her. His entire stance was one of anger. William's curiousity was piqued, so he grabbed himself some more food and a goblet of wine, and headed for Duchess Claudia.

To her credit, the Duchess looked completely unflustered by the lose of her newly acquired companion. He approached her as he would any other member of court, easing to a stop beside her.

The Duchess remained calm as she turned to see William next to her. She curtsied as she normally did, giving him a sly look as she returned to selecting some food to eat. "Your Majesty, to what do I owe this pleasure? It is a little too soon for me to tell you much about Lady Jane."

William stiffled the laugh quickly. "She has not been sent to you to be tutored or mentored to fill that kind of role." He paused while she gave him surprised look. "Of all those within the court, We felt that you were the best to help her gain her confidence at court. The only other woman she knows at Court is her sister-in-law, who is one of the Queen's Ladies in waiting. You know as well as We do, those are the most well versed in the nastier elements of the Court."

"And I am not?"

"Of course you are, Your Grace. You have far more grace and honour than to let your claws out until they are needed. Those others keep them out at all times, even if they are kept in gloves to hide them. You are far more subtle, and you take the time to ensure that you don't need to weather the normal storms."

"You are aware, Your Majesty, that my association with the young woman will cast Jane in a poor light, due to how we were once. They will gossip that I am going to teach her how to better please you when you finally decide to take her as your next paramour."

William raised an eyebrow. "As if that is going to happen. I found someone who will talk to me as a person, not as a King. Well, not all the time. It is quite a pleasant feeling. I would not want to ruin that by taking things further."

"Like what happened with us?" Claudia looked at him intently.

William gently smiled to Claudia. "What happened between us was a mistake, but one I am very happy that occurred. I k now that we will never be the friends we once were, Claudia, but I think that we shared something very important." He put a small morsel of food into his mouth while he watched Claudia softly blush t his compliment. "You, Your Grace, have special place in my heart, and I will forever be your dearest friend. Don't let the words of others harden your heart."

"Thank you, your Majesty. You are too kind to me."

"Only because you are worthy of such kindness." He turned himself to face Claudia fully. "Please take care of Lady Jane, and show her the intricacies of the Court. I would appreciate it greatly. Plus, I think that you will find her to be a most worthwhile companion for you. She is a kind and gentle soul, and I would like to see that she remains so."

"I shall gladly take Lady Jane into my care, and also enjoy her companionship. With Your Majesty's permission?"

William nodded, and Claudia moved away, once more leaving William alone in the midst of his own Court.

Marielle was still fuming from Claudia’s visit to her haven from the sun. Abigail suggested a walk near the roses.

“How dare she? How dare she flaunt herself at me and act as if she didn’t throw herself at my husband? She acts as if she still belongs at court. She is a discarded mistress. She should stay home with her husband.” Marielle’s cheeks were red and her delicate hands were clenched into fists at her side.

Abigail patted her arm. “Your majesty, Jane is an innocent and my father in law is working hard to secure her a good marriage, a marriage that will give him more influence or wealth. The King for whatever reason has taken an interest in Jane. And, I think it is a paternal one. She got knocked over during a dance and she looked like a little girl in her pile of skirts.”

Marielle listened to Abigail and watched her face intently. She had lived a royal life long enough to know that even her most loyal friends had underlying motives.

“Paternal?” Marielle arched an eyebrow. “And you say she is an innocent? His taste does not usually lean towards the unschooled.” Abigail nodded and then continued.

“Your Majesty, your influence on Jane might help her secure a good marriage. And, the King, would appreciate you taking a maternal interest in Jane. Her mother died when she was young and her mother was a friend to the crown.” Abigail held her breath. She hoped the Queen would turn her focus to Jane rather than the Duchess. Marielle said nothing for the longest time. She sipped in slow breaths and relaxed her hands. She closed her eyes and straightened her shoulders.

“Abigail, your counsel is wise. I do not need to create another rival. And she seems sweet and It will be a service to the crown to counter the influence of the Duchess. Bring her to my chamber tomorrow. I am planning a Masque for the King’s birthday. She can learn about court life with us.” Marielle took Abigail’s arm. “Thank you, my friend. I am sure that I will care for your little sister as much as I care for you.”

Larrimore watched Abigail and the Queen as they whispered arm in arm. Abigail had been an asset to the family. He had chosen her for Josiah. Josiah was loyal and hardworking and he loved his country and his family. But he had no ambition, no scheme. So, Larrimore had chosen Abigail for him.

Larrimore did his best to look calm for the remainder of the picnic. He regretted losing his temper with Jane. He knew that she hadn’t lured the King into meddling with her marriage prospects. His worry had gotten the best of him. He would have to make it up to her in the morning.

Philip Price was supping at the banquet table. He motioned to Larrimore.
“My Lord, I am so sorry for my ‘introduction’ to your lovely daughter. She is quite lovely and so very gracious.” Price’s flush gave him away. His hands were fidgeting with his tunic as he spoke. Larrimore did a mental calculation of Price’s wealth and connections. He was a feasible match but not the one that Larrimore wanted as his first choice.

“Lord Price, all is forgiven. I am sure that you will have many opportunities to get to know my Jane all the better.”

Jane sat on her bed. She hadn’t had the chance to eat and her mind was on her rumbling stomach. She laid back on her bed and tried to remember the names and faces of the people she had been introduced to. But no matter what she tried to think about, her thoughts lingered on the face of the King. He had rescued her from Fowler and for that she would always be grateful. She hoped that she would be able to be as good of a friend to him that he had been to her.

The remainder of the picnic passed without much interest. William spoke with several members of the Court that had the courage to approach him, and what they spoke of was of little interest or consequence to him.

He spent the following day in seclusion, mainly refreshing his knowledge of certain political changes within the kingdom and within the neighbouring kingdoms. His brow furrowed deeply as he read one of the reports that had come from Selucia. "Someone is try to sow discord between our two nations? How very interesting. I wonder who is actually behind it?"

He paused during the day to make sure that he ate, but all the other time was spent reading and contemplating the meanings of the various reports and missives he had received. The following day, it was back to the normal routines of Court.


Count Jason Armitage of Balantine waited at the back of the throne room as was proper. While he had no cause to petition the King with, custom and good manners dictated that he present himself as soon as he arrived in Court. He had traveled to Artelle on other matters, but since he was in the capital, his sense of honour ensured that he paid his respects to the King.

He was a young man, not yet 30. Slightly taller than most men, he had the broad shoulders of a fighting man, along with the lean body and graceful movements. His sable hair was cut short, not long enough for one to grab, and his face was cleanly shaven. Deep brown eyes glimmered in the light of the torches as he looked about the room for the second time in his life.

"His Majesty calls the Count of Balantine."

Jason snapped his head up, marching briskly to the runner that covered the length of the hall's central aisle. He fixed his gaze upon his monarch, continuing to march to the appointed place. He dropped to one knee, bowing fluidly. "Your Majesty, I am honoured to present myself to You this day."

"Arise, Count of Balantine." The King waited as Jason rose as commanded, looking straight at his Monarch. "For what do We owe this pleasure, Lord Balantine?"

"I was in the city to pursue matters pertaining to my County. Honour, and good manners brought me here to present myself to my King. To do otherwise would be viewed by myself as insulting to Your Royal self."

Jason felt the tension ease as King William smiled and nodded his head with the briefest of movements.

"We are please with your courtesy, Lord Balantine. We shall not withhold you from your duties any longer than is absolutely necessary. Please go with Our thanks for your fulfillment of good manners and customs."

Jason bowed deeply, the wave of relief almost sending him to the floor. He straightened, took three steps backward while looking to his King, then turned and marched to the end of the runner. He turned back to his King, and gave a short bow. Jason moved off to one side, letting his breath out in a ner explosive manner.

"The king calls..."

"That, young man, is what gets you remembered by the King."

Jason turned to face a large man who's face was marred by battle. His finery was a match for Jason's, but it was the man's unique countenance that reminded Jason of who was speaking to him.

"Your Grace. I hope it will be in a good manner that His Majesty will remember me."

Markham chuckled with a low volume. "Fear not, Armitage. You have made a good impression with the King, and we will see many others following your lead now. Not a single hawk in the room missed anything. Including who did it."

Jason turned his head to look up at the taller man. "In what way do you mean?"

"You are going to be watched, young man. You made a good impression. If the King summons you again, people will notice, and then you will be sought out by others as a means of getting closer to the King."

"Why would they? They have people such as you."

Markham's smile was full of teeth. "But in the eyes of the Court, I am merely a Duke because I put my body between the King and a sword. Little more than a peasant in pretty clothing. You, on the other hand, are of noble stock with all the right education. The nobles of the court will happily deal with someone like you. Keep your wits, and you'll go far."

Jason's eyebrows twitched as he watched Richard Markham walk away.

Jane was awakened by Abigail early in the morning with the news that she had been invited by the Queen herself to help plan the King's birthday. Abigail had already laid out a proper dress and instructed the maid to pin up Jane's hair with some jeweled pins that she had brought from her own jewelery box.

"I will speak to your father about getting you some of the glimmer and shine that you need for court." Abigail fussed over Jane as she got ready. She had input on every aspect of her dress, and Jane was beginning to feel a bit over managed. However, she kept her thoughts to herself. She knew it was an honor to be invited to the Queen's chambers and she hoped her father would be pleased with her.

Jane silently managed a few bites of breakfast as Abigail and her maid fussed over her. She winced as the maid twisted and toyed with her hair. Abigail pinched her cheeks. Jane looked at herself in the glass. In her pink satin dress and with her hair pinned off of her face, she looked very much like the other young women at court. She hoped the Queen would approve and she hoped that she would say the right things.

Abigail took her hand and lead her out of her bedchamber. "Now, Jane. Do not mention the Duchess, listen more than you speak, and please, please... watch and listen to the Queen. She will make it clear to you what she wants from you. She expects her ladies and maidens to be circumspect. I know that is how your father raised you." Jane nodded. She knew how to be well behaved and she was beginning to tire of being reminded of how to act.

Her father was pouring over papers at the table. He barely looked up when they passed. "Do well my darlings, as I know you will." was all he offered.

Abigail led Jane through the corridors of the palace. She spent much of her time with the Queen and the Queen's guard knew her by sight. The guard's opened the door for Abigail without question. Marielle was seated at her desk, even in a simple rose damask gown, Marielle was stunning. Jane found herself staring for a moment before Abigail pinched her and she dropped into a curtsey.

Marielle smiled at them both. "I am so excited that you brought your little sister, Abigail. I have decided on a garden theme and since my husband enjoyed the picnic the other night, this Masque will be in the garden. All of the ladies will come dressed as flowers. I thought we might assign each lady invited a flower to dress as, so they don't all arrive wearing the same thing. I can see our Jane here as a shy violet. And that prattling Gilden girl, perhaps she could be a buttercup or a daffodil."

Jane listened to them weave plans, they talked about the menu and the music. Jane did her best to nod in the right places. She had a hard time focusing on the planning, her thoughts were lingering on her dress and mask for the party.

"I think I shall dress as the lily." Marielle offered. "White becomes me."
Without thinking, Jane spoke up.

"Your majesty, you should dress as the rose of Lyoness." Even Jane knew the Lily was the symbol of Selucia. Marielle looked at Jane in surprise.

"It is sweet of you to think that my choice in dress could gain me favor with the court, but child, I will always be a foriegner to this court."

Jane apoligized for interjecting and Abigail gave her a hard look. Jane was just not sure she was cut out for a life at court.

William sat through the seemingly endless stream of petitions from parties ranging from his Dukes down to a fortunate few burghers who sought Royal permission, as in one case backing, to engage in some trade ventures. For him, it was tedious work but had to be done to maintain the normal flow of the Kingdom.

William rose and left when his day was complete, his seneschel walking beside him. "Thank God that is over." The slightly older man smiled, but offered no comment. The two men walked in companionable silence until they reached the royal chambers.

"Friedrick, have you any questions about the decisions made today?"

"None, Your Majesty. All of the petitions were simple enough for me to see the reasons behind each decision. Also, I have noting to say about any of them."

"Friedrick," William placed the crown on the cushion set aside for it, "if anyone else heard you say that, they would think that you were fawning. I do like it when you speak your mind about my decisions."

"Sire, in your youth, I did question them because I saw flaws with them. Now, you are wiser, and the decisions you have been making are good ones, so I have no need to speak of them."

William turned to look straight at the Seneschel. "Even continuing with Marielle?"

"Sire, that is not an easy course to plot, and I do not envy you in making those decisions as they arise. Again, it is a balance against what may be gained against what can be gained. But, yes, Sire, there will come a time when a final decision needs to be made, one that is for the best of the Kingdom."

William eased himself in a chair, relaxing in the soft padding. "It's all a matter of timing. If we can get an alliance with Cappadocia, then I may be able to do something about Marielle. No, nothing like that, Friedrick. I want to be able to move without having Selucia running over the borders an hour after hearing the news. No, we will be divorced, and she will be sent home with honour. But not without some form of firmer friendship with one of the closer kingdoms."

"Sire, many of the nobility have been questioning your fidelity with the Queen, since she has borne you no heirs. They feel that you may be bewitched by Her Majesty."

"Hardly," William snorted. "Politics brought us together, and it is politics that is keeping us together. Nothing more, nothing less."

"Has Your Majesty been trying to gain an heir?"

William ignored the healthy blush of his oldest assistant. "Yes, at every oppourtunity. It is the one duty Her Majesty has been most eagerly performing, if only to ensure that she doesn't have to do it any more. Plus, it is a matter of pride for her to produce an heir. It is one of her most important wifely duty."

"My apologies, Sire. I shall let the cooks know that you are ready to sup. Shall I have someone inform the Queen that you are free?"

"Yes, let her know that I am no longer in audience, but that I am not requesting that she attend me. I know she is planning the celebrations of my birthday, and I don't want to disturb her." William smiled. "She does plan some good parties and social events. I have yet to have one that I didn't enjoy."

"With Your leave?"

William nodded and Friedrick left him in peace. He relaxed, thinking about how he truly felt about his wife. By the time his supper arrived, he was slightly surprised at the result of his pondering.

Jane finished writing out the guest list as the Queen ticked off names. Then each woman was assigned a flower to base to her dress and mask off of. Jane was pleased with her assignment of the violet. She could already envision what she was going to wear. Abigail had asked to be allowed to dress as the daffodil. Abigail had written out the menu and she walked it down to the kitchen.

Marielle smiled at Jane. "I have enjoyed your company. I will invite you on another occasion. But today, I have a gift for you."

Jane wasn't sure what to say but managed a thank you. Marielle opened a drawer and pulled out a green jeweled brooch in the shape of a spring leaf.

"I have noticed that you do not have many jewels, Jane and I thought I might begin your collection." Marielle handed the brooch to her and closed Jane's hand around it. "Welcome to court, Jane. Now, take this list to the King's Seneschel. The attendant will tell you where to go."

Jane curtseyed and took the invitation list as she was asked. Jane followed the attendant. She wondered where the King might be and hoped that he would enjoy the party that the Queen had planned. She delivered the list and made her way back to her father's apartment.

Her father and Abigail were already sitting at the table with their heads together. Her father beamed at her.

"Abigail says that you have performed well today, my darling." Jane nodded. It was disheartening to see Abigail as just her father's eyes and ears instead of her friend and sister.

She wished that she had someone to confide in. She wished she was back in the garden with the King.

William was in his chambers when Marielle arrived at the end of their days.

"My husband, I hope you are well after your day?"

"Indeed, Marielle, I am very well." He walked over to her, pausing for a moment to let her caution pass. He placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.

"Thank you." Marielle blushed lightly, her hand touching her cheek just as softly as his lips had. "What do I owe that gift for?"

"For helping a new lady ease into the Court. The young woman is someone I am interested in. As a person, my wife." He caught her slight intake of breath. "I do not seek to bed every woman that crosses my path, Marielle. I know you do not take kindly to the presence of the Duchess Claudia."

"And why should I, when she shared herself with you."

William turned to face Marielle. "I have had paramours before, I don't hide it. I may even have others. We were married for political reasons, and we both know it. I found warmth in the arms of others, and you are welcome to do the same. But not once did I parade my mistress before you, or even make a show of going off to be with her. Neither have I used these women to imperil your position in Court, or in the Kingdom."

"You see how the people look at me? You know how they think of me? I am a Selucid, and I shall always be one."

"Because you refuse to embrace anything to do with Lyonesse. Everything of ours is lesser than what Selucia has. You hold yourself aloof from Our people. I'm sure that no one would care if I openly bedded someone from Lyonesse, because the only person it would effect is you." William took a couple of steps forward. "But you are my wife, regardless of where you come from. When I have needs that are to be met elsewhere, then I get them met. Quietly."

He took another couple of steps, clasping Marielle's hands in his. She gasped, and tried to pull her hands free. William held them fast. "I like you, Marielle. As I would like a friend. Love has not blossomed between us, and it was something I was prepared for. But you are my wife, and I respect you enough not to hurt you deliberately.

"Now, Lady Jane is someone I like as well. She is different, and sees me as a person rather than a King. I like that, and I want to cherish it. I have no plans of bedding the woman. I do, however, have plans of bedding my wife. We still have a duty to perform. And as far as duties go, that one is one I find to be one of the less onerous ones."

"Thank you, my husband. You are right about us, as well as our duties. I shall retire and ready myself to fulfill our most important... duty."

He knew that he would enjoy the execution of their duty, while Marielle would go through with it to get the baby she needed to have. Then, she would be able to politely refuse her husband until after the baby's birth due to her 'delicate condition'. But until then, when he wanted her, he would have her. He did wish that she was a little more involved. It would make it more fun.

William headed off to join Marielle in their bed.


William sat on one of the benches in the garden, overlooking one of the larger ponds. He was enjoying the peace and quiet, along with a few other members of the nobility who were trusted enough not to annoy his Majesty during such times. He found it good to be able to enjoy the warmth of the sun, along with the sight and scents of the garden without all the political carrying on that went along with Court.

"Hmmm. It would be much nicer if We had someone to talk to." The closest swan turned to look at the King, not pausing as it paddled along.

Jane spent the morning listening to Abigail and her father compare the men that her father hoped would court her.She did her best not to hear them, her father told Abigail that Philip Price was asking after Jane, but that he had higher hopes for her.

"Jane is a beauty and I think that she will garner the attention of better men than Price."

Abigail patted him on the arm. "You needn't worry. Her majesty was quite taken with Jane and she will do her best to make sure that Jane is wed to an excellent match."

Jane wanted to escape. It made her uncomfortable to hear Abigail and her father so openly strategize.

Abigail smiled at Jane, "I need you to fetch your green satin gown... the dressmaker is going to remake it into your violet costume. I asked to be assigned the daffodil because I have a gold dress that can be redone. I need to get them to our seamstress before the other women in court get their invitations and the dressmakers get more work than they can handle."

Jane did as she was bid and then took the opportunity to slip out of the apartment. She stopped by the kitchen and asked for some bread. One of the servants handed it to her. Jane held the bread tightly and made her way to the gardens. She was surprised when she saw the King's guard standing at the gates. But they waved her through.

Jane noticed there were a few nobles about but she didn't pay them any mind. She wasn't thereto socialize with members of the court. She had come to feed the swans. She tore a hunk of bread from the loaf and tossed it to one of the swans. She looked for his mate, but for now the swan appeared to be alone.

"Handsome, here is some dinner for you and your lovely lady." She tossed another piece of bread and then she saw the King seated on the other side of the pond. He was sitting alone and seemed to be watching the water. She stood still for a few minutes and watched the King.

She walked around the pond and curtseyed before the king. She offered him the bread.

"Your majesty, would you care to help me feed the swans?" Her voice was warm with laughter.