Bethothed.....

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen appeared as stunned as everyone else at Victors announcement her brother helped her rise and went with the guards to escort her to safety as the room erupted into chaos. He was not however allowed to go past a cretin point he stopped when told to do so and turned to help remain on guard there should any have left the dinning hall to come after them, he knew his fellow guards would watch over his sister.

Adewen waited nervously and with amazement she had never imagined he had any feeling aside from friendship and perhaps saw her as a possible mistress... she was feeling overwhelmed happy he was not giving her to a stranger or someone she did not care for, but afraid for all she knew must be happening below at this very moment, all he must be facing because of his decision.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor elite guards responded to the outbreak quickly keeping a few thrown items from hitting Victor in the back of the head. He turned quickly and shouted to everyone in the room. "ENOUGH!" his anger filled his tone completely. His body shook with anger. "I want to know how many of you Bastards in this room have someone else chose the women you decided to bed!" he looked at all the barons, "I bet not a single one of you, so I ask why do I have to allow you all to choice which woman I want to bed!" his wording was distasteful to him but it was the way his Baron's addressed the roles of women.

The room slowed upon the Victor's shout and reasoning behind his words, thinking that he declared her as a bitch and not his Queen, that was acceptable to the Barons. He had to move carefully here not to tip the balance that he was getting. The announcement of her becoming the Queen would have to wait till the kingdom was stable.

He hated the thought of telling Adewen that she had to play the part of his bitch till the stableness came. It hurt him, but if he was to keep her safe and his kingdom away from civil war that is what he had to do.

"I want to be with my Bitch, as I bet most of you men want the same." He gestured out with a laugh. "Go, be with your bitches for I have one that I'm going to show her what a King is made of!?" he bellowed out again, getting the cheers of the once angered crowed of men. He looked over at Trina, "You will be with me as well." He pulled on her arm. Knowing she had to be the witness to him treating Adewen as a bitch.

He entered the room where the guards took Adewen. He released Trina's arm and looked over at Adewen."Strip!" He yelled at her with a cold tone...

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen's brother saw Victor going down the hall with Trina and wondered what was going on. Then heard from the hall and other guards who had been there what had been said and all that was happening. He paled and grew angry but he could do nothing to help his sister now. After words he could help her after.. damn.

Adewen turned facing the door way as he entered the chamber she wanted to ask what was going on, but halted surprised to see Trina with him. She was one of the most viscous among the women at court. Her nervousness and confusion gave way to anger as his shouted words registered.

So she thought this was how it was to be.. she did not fully understand what was happening, she would not disobey an order from her king. She defied them both in showing her anger, and pride by not looking away from ether of them as she brought her hands up to slowly undo the lacing of her gown.

She said not a word as layer by layer she removed all she wore until she got to her shift.. only then did she hesitate looking down briefly her hands shaking before clenching them and then swiftly removing that as well not having stopped looking at ether of them until that moment. Her hair was still pinned up so they would have a clear view as they walked around her if they chose to do so.

She could not look up at them now, she was still angry yes, but soon they would both see. The marks she bore from the attack on the monastery. She had not been sexually assaulted but it had been a near thing she had been one of the few rescued before it had gotten that far but she had indured some torture while being held along with the nuns, and prioress.

She waited knowing Trina's cruelty would begin any moment, as would Victor's she had expected better of him than this.. but then.. she had always been foolish.. that foolishness in trusting seemed to constantly be landing her in one bad situation or another. Swallowing her pride somewhat she waited for them to approach " I would ask his Majesty remember that in spite of being wife to another i am as yet untried to please take this into consideration."

She could almost see Trina smiling gloating in her minds eye but did not look up she was not sure what she would do if she did and striking her would only end in Adewen becoming imprisoned or worse.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor almost lost all control when Adewen began to undress. He wanted to stop her, to tell her that this wasn’t the man that wanted her as his Queen. This was a role he had to play to save her life and the lives of many innocent people. Time, all he needed was time to show the people how happy he would be with Adewen at his side. How much she would mean to this kingdom with her charm and things that she has endured to become so strong, but politics had to be played for now until the people of all the baronies came to understand his choice of Adewen to be their Queen.

He saw the snippy face that Trina held when he moved behind Adewen, he wanted so much to walk over to her and bitch slap her, but that would be the end of Adewen’s safety. It angered him that he was so weak at this time, but a King without an heir would be easy target to take out, but once married to Adewen, and her becoming his Queen with the approval of the people, then his power would return and he could take control over the complete kingdom. His heart faltered, the pain of seeing the wounds almost made him retch up the dinner he had just eaten. He swallowed hard the emotions that were raging through him. He wanted so much as to grab Adewen and comfort her, apologize for the cruelty of mankind. But he couldn’t, instead, he had to be one of those bastards that mistreat woman of lower status.

He stood behind Adewen, using her as a shield to hide the facial disgust from Trina’s glare. He took a deep breath and wondered what the hell he was suppose to do next. He never treated a women like this before and already in what he just made her do made him sick. He allowed his mind travel back over the past when he visited the taverns, how the women were treated there, but still that was different than this, this was more of a barbaric, cold, sexual tyrant sort of thing that didn’t sit well with him. He had to remind himself that this was to protect Adewen from the possible threat of assassins being sent to take her out if they find out that she was going to be more than his bitch in real.

“MMM, a fine piece of flesh!” he almost puked spitting those words out to her. Trina’s face lit up with a sheer delight. “Go ahead Mi’lord, take your advantage of this …. Meat.” she spit out with glee. Victor fought back the urge once more. “No I want you to strip too bitch.” he shouted to her. The face of Trina fell to a what expression. “What?…. Umm What mi’lord?” She looked at Adewen with a disbelief look. “But I’m your…” “Your what” Victor shouted out, “Do you really think I was going to choose you as my Queen, no, all you are to me is a Bitch as well. I believe your father would understand this since I would be asking Shea to be my Queen for they are slightly more powerful than your family. So honor your family and strip bitch.” He has found a way around abusing Adewen, but abusing the one that needed to be abused.

Trina shook with anger and fear, slowly she reached up and untied the strands that bounded her dress. She allowed it to fall to the floor, her head lowered so she would not have to look upon them. “All of it!” Victor shouted. Trina’s hand lowered and removed the remaining article of clothing that shielding her womanhood from the gaze of Victor. “Mi’lord.” Trina’s voice faltered, her body trembling.

“Trina, get over to where Adewen is and the both of you get on your knees.” He hissed in that same cold tone. His mind ran rampant on how to get out of this situation. Then it occurred to him in what he could do once they are on their knees. The ground outside would be blocked from their gaze by the balcony flooring, which would give him the opportunity to make up a story of someone being out there in a suspicious way, that would draw his attention to a intruder situation over him trying to be a bastard to these two women, although one deserved it, but he could not go that low in life to accomplish the task.

He did take a few moments to enjoy the finer quality of Adewen, shamed that he took this opportunity to see her this way, but damn she was gorgeous and she made this coldness fade away. He felt honored to just be in the same room with her and able to gaze upon her with admiration.

“What the hell is that!” he shouted as he ran to the window, He acted to be scanning over the grounds, “GUARDS WE HAVE AN INTRUDER IN THE PORT COUTYARD!” he yelled at the guards as he opened the door and was going to join the men, but was pushed back into the room by the guards, “Sire, we will look for the intruder. Stay here where you are safe.” The commander of the watch spoke up. “Get out the both of you.” The commander shouted at the two naked women.

Victor nodded to the commander and backed back into the room. His heart was heavy with what he had done, but at least he got out of really hurting Adewen.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen had kept her head down not rising her eyes even when he called for the guards because of an intruder, she did her best to ignore the embarrassment and hoped in the guards seriousness of the situation did not notice anything.

Swiftly she gathered her shift slipping that much on in the very least before gathering the rest of her clothing in her arms, she did not bother with her slippers but ran from the chamber as swiftly as possible. Her brother waited for her to emerge and seeing her state of undress took off his own small cloak to place round her shoulders as he escorted her swiftly to her room.

He noted the other Trina leaving as well but another guard assisted her, he said nothing simply lead his sister away. Once in her chambers she asked her brother to take the pile of clothing and give it to someone else after it was washed she honestly did not want to ever see it again.

He reached out to hug her but she pushed him away shaking her head no. " dont.."

"Did he hurt you? " he asked..

"No, no he did not..just my pride.." Her brother looked some what re-leaved. " I know that you will not wish to hear this but i think he did the only thing he could.." She glared at him. " Get out.." it was two words and spoken quietly but it sent shivers up his spine.

"i will leave you be for the night.. but i shall return in the morning.. you should prepare your self .." he paused not sure how to tell her she would be considered the kings whore.. tho none would be so bold as to directly call her such in front of his highness.. in privet alcoves and when they thought no others would be paying attention.. Some would think they could take advantage.. others would simply be cruel or both..

" i am sorry .. maybe father can take you on one of his ships to our aunts .."

He saw her shaking her head as she moved to look out the window stairing up at the moon light as she whispered. " To late for that... the damage is done. Even if i left this night.. no one would ever beleive me anything but his toy.."

To that he her brother had nothing to say.. so quietly left her alone with her thoughts. She took her brothers cloak off of her shoulders and layed it on one of the near by chairs, then returned to gazing out at the moon.

How long she stood there she did not know, eventually she sat down on the ledge curling her knees up it was just wide enough she could fit, the coolness of the stone felt good against her forehead before she knew it she was asleep.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor ended the search for the intruder after several patrols reported in that nothing was found. He himself even made rounds with the kings guard. The only things that were out on this night were the crickets and the very annoying mosquitoes. Stopping at the gardens, he ordered all patrols to stop their searching and turn in for the evening. He asked the captain of the guard to post extra guards on patrol, even though the intruder alert was false there was still resentment from the some of the noble families.

His mind drifted to Adewen and what he had done, but he didn’t have a choice. It was that or watch his kingdom tear itself apart with civil strife. The only good thing that came out of this was getting rid of Trina and her family quest for her to become Queen. He sighed heavily with the stress of the whole situation. Times like this he wished he was nothing more than some squire boy and the only worry he had would be if the Knights armor and sword gleamed good enough to please the Knight.

He made his way through the gardens, the crickets were chirping, the moonlight was reflecting off the fountain pool giving it an eerie reflection. He took a seat on one of the many garden benches, his chin falling into his opened hands. He closed his eyes and tried to think of changing what he has done this night, but there was nothing he could do to change things now, Adewen would always be known as the King’s whore. He shook his head with regret and anger. The thoughts of sending her away would be the best thing to do, for if she wasn’t seen around people would eventually forget about her. A pain struck in his gut at the thought of her being gone for many a year to come.

He stood, looked about the garden for a moment than decided it was time to talk with Adewen. He knew she was hurt, angry and she had all the right to be. He made things worse by appointing her to him, he should have just given her away to one of the Baron’s and been done with it all. He chuckled as he remembered his father always stating that if only he had hindsight. Victor nodded in his agreement to that statement.

Reaching the hallway, he noticed Adewen brother standing at the door, the expression on his face told all. Victor could only met the man’s strong gaze as yes I know. He moved up to the door and knocked, there was no reply, he knocked again and still nothing came. Victor nodded his understanding and decided to give Adewen the space she needed.

“Please let her know I was here this evening to speak with her. If she wishes she can come and see me in the morning. If not I fully understand, and I can have a carriage ready to take her anywhere she wishes to go.” Victor turned and headed back to his bedroom. It was going to be a long night…

 

[LittleSprite2]

" m'lord " Richard called out to him before he left and bowed politely it was hard keeping his tone in check and he made sure his eyes were down showing anger or disapproval of the king was not a wise way to keep ones head.

"Sire as my sister so eloquently put it awhile ago when i made the offer to assist her in leaving.. it would not matter as the damage is done, and would only follow her where er she went. " he paused unsure what else to say and debating his next actions as well as words very carefully.


There had to be more here than what they understood why betroth her to him then turn around and make her his.. Richard was a simple knight he was loyal to his family and to his king. There were times like this it was not easy to know what was right.

"i was about to check on her sire. I do not think she would do herself harm. but if you wish to join me that we may attempt to discuss this situation privetly together the three of us, none will think it amiss as you already stated your claim. "

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor turned to the calling out for his attention. His gaze fell upon Adewen’s brother. “Yes?” he moved forward to meet the guard. His hand instantly waving off the need to bow. His feelings at the moment didn’t deserve anyone giving him any respect. What he deserved was a flogging of unmerciful measures, but that of course would not happen for everyone feared his title, The King, Many things has happened that has changed his views, thoughts and even the way he treated his people. It was all going to change. Yes it would take time but at least he was going to make show the people that he was trying.

“There is no damage done to her if she doesn’t care about low moralized Barons whom would be called whores too if public displayed their way of life. Something that all their female servants knew was a fact after being abused by them.” He whispered to his guard. “Things are going to change, but even I need to change and I wish Adewen to be the one that guides be through this change. I believe that a man can not stand alone without a strong woman standing beside him.” He truly believed this for he has seen it many times in the smaller farming communities.

“I do wish to see her, so yes I will go with you. She must know why I did what I did, and how the talk about her will change. This I have a firm believe, for when the people see the change in me, I will ensure them that this change in me was made possible by the Queen.” The look upon his face was a stern look, the one he always held when passing Kingdom law.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Richard turned and entered his sisters chamber followed by the king. He could see from what little light remained of the fire that had been going previously in the chamber a vauge silhouette of the room one could just make out where the peaces of furniture were situated but that was about all.

Richard closed the door quietly behind Victor before moving to the night stand. " Ade.." he whispered as he approached the bed but seeing the covers undisturbed had him frowning and lighting the candle on the bedside table. Searching the room.. it took him a moment but he spotted her about the same time Victor did.

He looked relieved to see she was alright.." she'll get sick if we let her stay where she is. " he whispered to Victor, be for starting to move to where his sister slept on the ledge of the window sill.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor let out a sigh for not only has he infuriated one of the richest Baron’s of his Kingdom, but he also ruined the reputation of Adewen, which wasn’t his plan, but he also didn’t really give it a whole lot of thought before claiming her as his bitch. Only if he could change the past, he would have done it and just stood up to his convictions of wanting Adewen as his wife. He was such a coward and now she has to pay the price.

He wanted to just turn away and leave the room, but he stilled wish to be with her. He has never felt so relaxed around anyone else. He looked over to Richard and nodded. “Yes she will.” he moved over to where she was and was going to pick her up but stopped and looked aback at Richard. “Maybe it best you move her to the bed. It would not be a good situation if she woke while I was carrying her toward the bed.” Victor aback up and gave him room to pick her up.

“I shall leave, let her rest and I will mend things with her in the morning.” Victor turned and walked out. The issue still heavy upon hi mind.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Richard watched Victor go not saying a word his thoughts however going in a thousand directions at least he knew that the king actually cared about his sister that was something, would he really make her queen and stand up to the barons or.. Richard did not want to think about it.

He turned down the covers of her bed then moved to where his sister was once more. None could undo the past only make the best of the future..

carefully he lifted his sister in his arms she jerked awake at first swinging wildly but then when her eyes focused and she realized it was her brother that she was safe she relaxed and let him carrie her over to place her in the bed.

He pulled the blankets up around her telling her he would stand guard tonight, and that one of his fellow guards he felt he could trust would be with her on the morrow. She fell back to sleep feeling some what reassured.

Richard hoped for both there sake's Victor would not have to humiliate her further and that the one display was all that was needed. However he was afraid it might not be for many of the family's wanted there daughters to be chosen.

Trina had been one of the most viscous but she was not the only one.. Victor had not given the order for Ade to have protection but as her brother he would see that at least one guard until the order was given be with her at all times.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor walked down the orange-reddish lighted corridor, the shadows seemed to dance from the braziers flicking with the draft of the wind being funneled down the hallway. This was one of his favorite times for it always seemed to relax him. Many nights he has traveled down these corridors with many thoughts that weighted heavy upon him and this was one of those nights.

He really didn’t know how to make this up to Ade, he just knew that he had too. He couldn’t allow his Kingdom to fall into social chaos and risk the threat of civil war. He had to find away of smoothing this out before someone realizes what is going on and acts on it causing what he is trying so hard to stop. His gaze is brought up when a familiar voice reaches him. “Why? did you do this to me!” shouted Trina, her body shaking with the anger that was built up inside of her.

Victor shook his head for he was just thinking of what viper would do this and long and behold it she was. “You assume way too much Trina, thinking that I would choose you just cause your family has money. I rule this kingdom and your lucky that I even allowed your family to have land to hold. Now, I do not have to defend myself to you. So if you do not wish to end up in the Gatehouse cage naked, I suggest you get as far away from me as possible.” Victor anger causing his voice to be load and booming. “NOW!” he yelled anger now threatening to choke him.

He glared at her before moving past her and continued down the corridor toward the Eastwind tower. His thoughts now on how are the other Barons reacting to all of this. He stopped one of the Brazier keepers, “I wish to see Richard, Bring him to the tower.” He calmly informed the young lady.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Richard upon getting the kings massive from the female servant thanked her, and sent for one of the other guards to take his place guarding the door to his sisters chamber. " no one goes in this room with out the Kings permission save myself, and she dose not go anywhere escorted understood? "

" yes sir.." the guard stated taking up his post he watched Richard go before relaxing and leaning against the door frame. Richard was not captain of the guard by any means and if the captain came by and ordered him else where well the captains orders would come first.

" You wished to see me sire? " Richard asked as he approached Victor. He had seen a very pissed off Trina flounce past him giving him a very nasty glare as she went even going so far as to spit at him. Richard knew he would have to keep an eye on her and her friends they had made Adewen's life hell before it would be doubly so now.

He bowed politely in case anyone was watching them, after all his highness's personal guard might be discrete but they were well trained. However there was know knowing who might be a spy and so on and so forth it was the normal way of things.

Rising from the bow he awaited his lordships response.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor, with a heavy, tired face turned to face Richard. “ I need someone to go to the outer rim and gather all the men you can muster.” Victor brought his hands up to his face, exhaling heavily into them, his glare seemed to be focused upon nothing but the mental images of things he wanted to get done. “These men you gather from the rim communities. I want you to make sure they are not bound to any baron.” His voice even was riddled with fatigue.

He paced back and forth in thought completely forgetting for a few moments that Richard was still standing there. He shot a glance over to him once he remembered that he was there. “You wait for the fall of night before bring those men here, once you get them here, immediately get them to the lower garrisons. I don’t want anyone to know that they are here. I also want you to ensure that they are equipped with the best weapons and armor we have.” He took a few more steps and came to a stop. His head rising up toward the ceiling, his face still showing signs that he was in deep thought.

“I want you to bring your Ade to my chambers once you insure all the men are equipped. Once you bring her I will have more orders for you. Also, ensure the men are fed well when you arrive with them. Now waste no more time. Try to get back within a weeks time. I will assign guards to watch your sister in your absence.” He turned to face Richard, “Thank you for all you have done, and are going to attempt to do for me. Trust me when I say that your sister will be safe.” He gave Richard and nodding dismissal …

 

[LittleSprite2]

Richard said nothing as he listened to his kings orders a flair of hope sparking in his chest as he had a notion to what his king had in mind or at least hoped he had in mind which would set things to rights. It would take time, but yes it could come out alright.

As soon as he was dismissed he took his leave of his king gathering what he would need to complete the task as well as the journey. He regretted he could not take the time to inform his sister of his leaving for the sooner he left the better.

However the king had promised she would be safe, so Richard turned his mount twords the gates and around midnight road out. He would not be seen again until his return.

Adewen woke the following morning stretching lazily, she lay there a moment wishing last nights events tho some of them had been pleasant before dinner were a nightmare. However she knew better and so rising she asked her maid who had entered with breakfast to have a bath brought up.

Getting up she slipped a dark blue robe on over her chemise she ate while the bath was being set up thanked them all for there assistance once those who had filled the tub had left she tended her morning needs and washed for the day.

" did you enjoy the ball Joan? i hope you were able to have some fun and that it was not all work for you" Joan smiled " i did " was all she said she would not meet Ade's eyes. She realized Joan as well as everyone else knew what had happened last night, and what her new status was.

Adewen sighed she would have to get used to the difference. Once fully dressed for the day in a dark blue velvet with white lace for the trim as well as neck line, her thick wavy chestnut colored brown hair braided, held in place by a matching white lace ribbon at the base, and vail.

The jewelry she wore was a silver circlet, upon her for head, a long silver ornate necklace, and one ring her family ring. She thanked the maid once more dismissing her for the time being.

She knew she could stay in her room if she wished but she felt that would be cowardly, better to face things head on, and deal with it as it came than to bury herself. Stepping from her room she saw a guard come to attention and nodded to him as he spoke. " m'lady.. your brother asked you not go unescorted so i'll be accompanying you for the time being. "

"Thank you." she knew he could not be with her all the time, but it was reassuring to know that if Richard was not there. Someone would be unless called away on other duties. She had no notion her brother was gone as of yet. Ade simply thought he had gone to get some rest from having been up all night.

The day outside was over cast and unsutable really for walking, summer was beginning to give way to fall the weather would be getting colder soon. She decided on the library it was a place she went often, and would feel comfortable in.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor watched as the sun peeked over the horizon spreading its rays over the treetops and across the land. His sleepless night offered no answers to his situation. Every idea he comes up with there were risks to either the Kingdom or to Adewen, either was acceptable.

He turned toward the door when a knock came about, “Yes,” Victor responded in a very fatigued voice. He slowly rose and squared up to whomever would enter the door. There wasn’t many whom would brave knocking so early upon his chambered room so it narrowed it down to a few individuals.

His eyes befell upon his servant as she walked in with his breakfast. She looked at him with almost a rage in her eyes. Victor knew instantly what that look was for and when she bowed and asked if there was anything else she could do for him he nodded, “Yes there is..” He gestured for her to take a seat. Trembling she took a seat and looked up to him.

He walked across the room, his back to her for a few moments, then turning toward her. His gaze found her orbs in which still held the rage. “I wish for you to speak with Adewen, let her know that I wish to speak with her in the Garden as soon as she can find the time to join me. “ He lowered his gaze from her so she could ease up a little. The servant nodded her understanding she was dismissed with a wave of her hand.

Victor made his way down to the Garden. He had to make things right to her, no matter what the cost.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen sat in the library a book on the table in front of her as she gazed out the window. She had tried to read but had been unable to focus on the words as her thoughts wondered hither and yonder.

She watched the rain ebb and the sun come out from the clouds, the sound of birds began filling the morning's air with there melody. Standing she closed the book she had been attempting to read and placed it back upon the shelf she had gotten it from.

She browsed the titles wondering the room a bit hoping one of them would catch her interest. She had often found solice in the pages of a scroll or book in past. " Thought we would find you here.. where else would you be, plain thing that you are."

Adewen stiffened and turned slowly she knew that voice, she turned slowly to face her as calm and dignified in her manor as she could be. " I do not know what he sees in you.. what could you possibly have to offer i do not? "

" you mean we do not".. Trina smiled to her fiends " of coarse We.. you are all far better than this merchants daughter.. " Adewen said not a word tho her eyes flashed. A movement out of the corner of her eye caught her attention as a female servant entered.

The servant cleared her throat to gain all of there attention. Trina looked at her and rolled her eyes then demanded "Well what is it.."

" Pardon me but His Highness wishes to speak with Mistress Adewen if you will come with me miss i will escort you."

"Yes of coarse thank you " Adewen bowed to the other women still not having spoken to them and excused herself with out a word to them. Trina's face grew red with fury. " We are not done" She reached out to grab Ade by the arm, but Ade caught her hand, and held it for just a moment long enough to meet Trina's eyes then let her go with out harming her in the least.

Adewen left the women alone she knew there would be further trouble, but she would do her best not to cause any or make it worse. " Please lead the way " she asked the servant once they were alone in the hall. " the guard outside the library door followed behind them.

" How dare she touch me.." Trina fumed.. her friends supporting her.

" He is awaiting you in the gardens miss i will go ahead and inform him you are coming" Adewen smiled and nodded acceptance of the servants words, letting her go on ahead.

The woman fairly ran away, so that she could go to the king before Ade arrived and inform him of what had taken place in the library. For she knew Mistress Adewen would likely say nothing and attempt to fend for herself not wishing to cause further harm.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor’s hands coming to a grasp behind his back, his eyes stared into the horizon as the servant’s words echoed within his mind. This Trina has already tested his patients and now gathering a group of supports so she can muster enough courage to bother the woman that Victor has chosen to be his. Victor was getting tired of using power to handle things that should be, could be handled as if he was just a normal man.

He exhaled deeply, the answer to this dilemma was going to have to come from Adewen, she had to show everyone that she could handle herself, and even go beyond that to where she could handle the reins of a kingdom. His head lowered, his emerald orbs scanning over the intrusion of the flower bed by oak vines. He chucked to himself as he pictured the poison oak as this Trina invading his highly sought flower. She was proving to be just that, a sought after flower that he if not already has destroyed by his cowardliness to face the barons and tell them how it was going to be. “What a two face dog!” Victor growled to himself when he compared Adewen needing to show everyone that she could handle the reins of a Kingdom and here he cant even control the reins as the King!

He turned sharply anger still on his face about himself when his mind froze for his eyes landed upon the very flower he was speaking about. Her beauty radiated from her while standing in the morning light, her face holding that look of fading annoyance. Her very presence seemed to take his breath away for this is the first time they have looked at each other since he humiliated her.

“Adewen… I ..” He stopped, swallowed hard, he wasn’t going to give her excuses. “I am truly sorry for the cowardice way I handed the situation.” he shook his head in anger for that isn’t what he was trying to say to her. “I…I’m hiding under this cowardice skin from ruling this Kingdom the way it should be. I’m allowing barony power to control my life for fear that they will start a civil war.” He walked toward her, his face losing the anger look. “I was wrong in what I did and now you are suffering from that, I will correct this by making a public statement that I lied to the people. I shall tell them the truth that I have chosen you to be my Queen.” The sincerity wasn’t only in his tone of voice, but filled his orbs as well.

Victor moved up and took a kneel, He extended his hands up, palms upward toward Adewen, “I Victor Cromwell, Ask thee to be my Queen.” He looked into her eyes with a determination.

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen stood there stunned for a moment unsure she had heard Victor the king correctly. From his expression and tone she knew his apologies were truly ment, she did not know how to react. Part of her was angry feeling like she might be being made a fool of but as she continued to look at him she knew that was not the truth.

She took a shaky breath and let it out slowly. " Victor.. i wish to accept .. i believe your words true.. however what happens if i accept. Will it not cause that which you tried to avoid"

she tried to keep the anger and humiliation out of her tone and keep only the understanding of why he had done so upper most in her mind. " before i accept.. there is something else you must know, about me.."

She knew if he were to accept her fully she had to tell him about Ian and be as honest with him as he was her. She was afraid however he would see her as accomplice but better he condemn her now for telling him the truth then another finding out and accusing her of being a traitor.

" may we go someplace to speak privet rather than here in the open ? "

 

[Elvenoff1]

Adewen’s words were like a sharp, hot knife cutting through a wedge of cheese for they were words that was an echo from his own mouth. Victor’s gaze lowered along with his head in disappointment at his own stupidity. How could he have made such a mess out of this his mind wondered? He wanted to answer his own mind but what answer did he have, besides stupidity.

He slowly rose up from his Kneel, his hands extended to take hers. His gaze moving up and focusing upon her emerald orbs. His thumb slowly gliding over her knuckles while he tried to lose himself in her mesmerizing eyes. “I let that ruin your reputation and show my cowardice to you. I have found my courage and have taken actions just incase the Barons wish to revolt my decision to make you Queen. Please fear not.” he whispered as his hand gestures toward an exit path that leads back into the castle.

Upon entering a guest bedroom, he turned to face her. “I know I have made a lot of mistakes this evening, but I hope you do know that my intentions were to allow us time to see if we should walk the same path together arm in arm. I know we have just met, but I just have this feeling that you are the one, you are my Queen.” He backed off slightly, “I do not wish to force this upon you. All you have to say is no…”

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen took his hands in hers walking with him, listening to him his honesty she decided to place her trust and faith in him. He was speaking to her as himself being open and honest with her. She could be no less.

She entered the bedroom to which he had lead them. Looking up at him as they entered she reluctantly let go of his hand walking across the room. She turned to face him as he shut the door.

" I forgive you, Your mistake Victor.. my king, and would very much like to walk the path you have offered to see where it may lead, i understand why you did what you did. I may not like it but i understand and forgive."

" Before i can accept there are things you must know. For i fear it will be you who says Nay.. not i.."

She looked down nervous as she wondered where to start and decided to start at the beginning. She began with coming to court the first time with her father. Telling him about getting lost, about how she met Ian.. and all that had occurred. His tricking her into thinking them wed... and finding out the truth of the matter.

How she had left him and stayed at the convent until it had been attacked.. " The rest you already know... i was afraid i would be seen as an accomplice if i spoke.. you and my brother are the only ones who know the truth. "

she clasped her hands together to keep them from shaking. She would not blame him if he walked away from her things had been complected enough before but this made it all the more difficult did he still wish to make her his.

 

[Elvenoff1]

Victor’s head followed his gaze to the stone flooring. The forgiveness that Adewen bestowed upon him lifted the weight that was crushing his chest, the pain that stabbed him in the gut every time his mind would bring up what he had done to her reputation. He sighed heavily, his hands clasping in front of him while he allowed his gaze to wonder back up toward Adewen’s face. His gaze entering into her orbs searching for any sign of discomfort, it did not take very long to find.

Her body language, her tone of voice brought warning to Victor’s ears. He straightened up and mentally prepared himself for whatever she had to say. He doubt if what she has done in the past wasn’t even close to what he just did to her the day before. If she could forgive him for what he did to her, there was nothing that she could say about her past that could effect him.

When she finished he wanted to chuckle to show her that it didn’t matter to him at all, but he respected her worry and was thankful that she was willing to share her past, but her past with someone else was not really something he had to forgive her for, he just had to give her the understanding and support to help her move on from the past.

“Milady, I thank you for sharing your past, however, the past can only affect the future if you allow it. I believe that you have punished yourself enough without any voice from me. I shall help you move on from that past if you allow me.” He wanted to take her hands into his but refrained from doing so. He had to allow them time to get to know each other. He has to stop looking at her physically with the wanting desire to the mentally desire of wanting her with him.

“I have to say this to be honest with each other. What draws me to you is not only your soul, but your body attracts me as well. I hope you can forgive me on that fact as well, but you are a very desirable woman. I have seen your markings and that is only proof of your inner strength that draws me too you as well. Please do not think your past has any chance of ruining what we may have in store for us. I shall help you however I can.” He reached up and lightly brushed Adewen’s cheek with the back of his hand. “I shall be your support and I hope that I will be your husband.” he smiled at her with a flame slowly getting brighter as he gazed into her eyes.

 

[LittleSprite2]

His words were like music to her ears a soothing blame to her heart and soul, did she dare beleive. She had been a fool in past and nearly so once more. She closed her eyes as he caressed her cheek, reopening them she brought her hands up to gently take his in hers rasing it she turned his hand over and lightly placed a kiss in the center of his palm.

Lowering his hand back down but keeping it in her own she looked into his eyes. " in accepting the truth of your words Victor and trusting in you.. i gladly accept you not only as my king but husband as well. "

Her hands shook she was nervous but not afraid. This was a very large step and would be extreamly dangerous. Many things would happen from this point forward some good some bad, but she was willing to take the risk. She was beginning to care for Victor.

She saw him as a man when few others had only seen a king, but had not allowed any further feeling beyond friendship to take hold. In time that would change for them both and of that much more would follow. " you've a good soul as well Victor i have seen it before now. Ive heard the talks i .. dont know what is to come but i will stand with you."

 

[Elvenoff1]

The words she spoke lifted his spirits for only moments ago this lovely woman was going to walk out of his life for what he thought he had to do, but now that she has agreed to become the Queen and his wife a brighter future is now one of many paths that their fate can take.

He had to be ready for the families whom may try to rebel against this for they wanted their daughters to be the queen for the rich always get what they want, but Victor had to go with his heart not what others wanted. He did have a feeling about Trina and her family. They might not be able to cause a rebellion but they had gold that can buy assassins or mercenaries to come after Adewen.

He looked at her the way he always has and always will, that loving, lustful look when you find that special someone that evokes these feelings whenever they are just nearby. "I do wish for you to stay with me this night but I want to honor you by waiting till I place a ring on that finger. So before I take all your sleeping hours away, May I kiss you good night?"

 

[LittleSprite2]

Adewen was not sure what he would say she waited quietly for his response a blush stole over her cheeks when he finally did so. She was glad he would wait until they were wed. " yes Victor you may.. "

She had forgotten that it was morning and they had not yet had the noon meal, with him looking at her as he was. Her heart began to race in anticipation. Any thoughts of her brother, and worries of what may come had disapated for the time being.

She could not move only continue to gaze up at him waiting, her thoughts now wholly centered on Victor himself and this time they had together.