Dryden's bride

[Gothmaster]

Northern England, Autumn 1423

Hugh Dryden stared angrily up at Castle Clairmont with his only functioning eye and kept riding towards the huge stone castle as he cursed the day he was born. He raged against the powers of fate that have intervened in his life and refused to leave him alone.

His ability of judging distances had not improved since he lost his left eye so it was hard for him to see just how far away the casle really was, but his companion Nicholas Becker acclaimed it was not that far away as it seemed. They had spent a last night in the woods to be able to arrive at a decent time at day, meaning the morning. They had the time to bath and prepare their appearances. To approach Hugh's bride.

May the plague take her, he thought and muttered even some worse things to himself. He did not wan't to marry and did not care either for new land or getting a woman in his life. He did not understand why his friend Wolf Colston, Duke of Carlisle, thought that Hugh was the right man to accomplish the council's wishes. Wolf and his wife must be aware that Hugh rather would be alone.

It had taken many months to recover from the damages he sustained during his capture at Windermere and during all that time after wich he did or said nothing that could incline he had a need of or was interrested in a woman. He had did the opposite in fact. Showing that he was in no need of such a thing.

He was a single man now. The pain he had indured isolated in the dark dungeons beneath Windermere castle, helpless and defenceless against the pain of mutulation and fear of death threats. The unwelcome memory made him shiver. Nightmare images tormented him all day and plagued him at nights wich made him roll and turn in his sleep.

It was better to stay single now. He had no longer any good to offer the world. No strength or desire to fight for his country. And absolutely nothing left to offer a woman. Probably would Lady Sian Tudor run and hide when she saw his damaged face, just like everybody except his closest friends did.

Hugh corrected the patch covering what used to be his left eye and kept on riding. This whole marriage was pointless he told himself once more. Sian Tudor was the daughter of Baron Joseph Tudor and she had never been married. Hugh was concerned how she would react when she first lay eyes on him.

Hugh was 6 feet tall but weighed only 155 lbs. He had lost much of his musclemass during his captivity and had problem to gain it back. His only remaining eye was grey. His black hair was reaching his shoulders and he had a three day stubble covering his cheeks. He was simple clad in green hoses and a white cloak. He wore no armour. The only thing telling he was a warrior was the well used broadssword hanging down his left thigh. He was well versed in how to use the sword to perfection. In the months after his release he had trained up his skill in using it.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Sian Tudor

Sian stared sightlessly into the fire.
The food and drink brought to her room in an attempt to tempt her appetite lay unheeded upon the tiny table in her room.
Though the room was warmed by the flames, Sian shivered.
Never had she felt so alone, so helpless.

Blinking and drawing back from the flames that had painted her pale complexion with a heated glow, Sian glanced down at the tiny locket which contained two tiny portraits; those of her mother, of whom Sian had only fleeting memories and beside that the recent addition of her father’s image. She bit back a sob feeling that fresh ache of loss that filled her every time she took in the sight of that so familiar face.

Joseph Tudor had barely been dead for 2 months and yet it seemed she had been without her beloved father an eternity.

Before her father had taken ill Sian had only been acquainted with Wolf Colston, the Duke of Carlisle from a distance. She knew that her father had sent for him as his health had begun to deteriorate, yet had no idea that he had been appointed as her guardian.

In those first days after her father’s death Sian had been numb with shock and grief. She had then welcomed the presence of Wolf and his wife who arrived shortly afterwards and assisted her in making arrangements for her father’s interment.
At that time the Duke had assured Sian of his protection and that that he would take care of her …

Grief stricken, not much had concerned her throughout that first month.
All she could focus on was the loss of her dear parent. And so she was totally unprepared for the announcement but 5 weeks later that she was expected to marry!

A single woman of 19 could not be left alone to run Castle Clairmont the Duke had argued. Sian had responded that as she was motherless she had attended to the running of the castle since the age of 15Her father had never wanted for any comfort she insisted, even when he had succumbed to illness it had been she who had nursed him, who had tried to tempt his appetite, to raise his spirits ….

Yet her reasoning had fallen on deaf ears.
The Duke refused to respond or discuss his decision. Instead, he merely left Sian to get used to the idea of marriage without explaining that she would have ultimately have no choices in the matter …

Sian took a breath as panic began to fill her once more.
Raising a hand to her eyes, she rubbed them dispelling the tears that threatened to fall. She could no longer afford the luxury of grief.
Not now matters had been fully explained to her: Her husband had been chosen, she had finally been told. He was to arrive sometime this week to meet his new “bride”. She had been told his name was Hugh Dryden and that he was an accomplished fighter. Her images of a young gallant had been dashed by the cryptic words that he was .. “ ..a man of …. experiences …” and would be one who would appreciate “ … the sweet domesticity of a young wife now he was returned from battle ... “.
Sian could only guess at his age and temperament.
If no gallant, would she find him an aggressive, violent husband?
Though often left to her own devices throughout the day, she had never lacked the love of her father. He had always dealt with her kindly and she knew that after her mother’s death she had always been the apple of his eye.
Yet … what treatment could she expect from such a husband … ?

A knock on the door drew her from her reverie.

” … yes … ?”

She hid the locket within the pocket of her gown and turned to face the door, curious at the strange expression upon the maid’s face.

” … the .. gentleman … has arrived .. M’Lady.”

Sian was so tempted to ask the girl what she guessed his age to be, what he was like, but bit back the questions and merely nodded. The girl seemed uncomfortable as she continued;

” The Duke sends word that Mr Dryden is eager to meet his … bride …and that he awaits your presence M’Lady … “

Sian felt the panic fill her once more and felt her senses spinning.
With effort she forced a reply.

”Please inform the Duke I will attend to his guest presently… “

Thankfully the girl left promptly, eager to pass on her message. Sian exhaled, realising she had been holding her breath.

”…Gods… “

Her soft exclamation was one of defeat: There was no more putting off the unavoidable.
Sian stood and smoothed her skirts, eyeing them critically. If she were meeting a suitor then she would don one of her navy or green or even burgundy gowns, but as it was …

This match was not of her making and it seemed it was already decided, so her appearance would be of little consequence.
Besides, she was still in mourning for her father.
What manner of man would agree to take a bride so soon after such a bereavement?
And so Sian mustered all her courage.
If the inevitable happened and she became this man’s wife, then she would be dutiful, if only to avoid punishment, yet whilst she was still free of a formal contract, she would do nothing to encourage this stranger to become betrothed to her.


http://images.quizilla.com/M/MedievalLass/1125767470_eowynlarge.jpg

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh Dryden

Hugh shuddered in the cold air as he was led to the stable by the young stableboy. He had refused to leave his horse in other hands than his own. Hugh was not a wealthy man any more. It had all been taken away from him. He had really stopped caring for wealth and riches. All he really wanted was to be left alone. He took his time taking care of his horse before he felt ready to meet his bride to be.

Wolf had said that she was a beautiful young woman. Very innocent and not one bit like his former wife who left him while he was trapped in captivity. He did not feel the hurt that much anymore whenever he thought of Marie. She was in the past, happily married to a count. Hugh could only pity the man. If she showed him the same loyality she showed Hugh he would not be surprised.

Shaking of memories from the past Hugh followed a servant to where he was supposed to meet Sian. He knew she was young. Hugh himself was 32 years of age and thought it was a disgrace to have him marry a child. Could they not find a better suitor for her? He had enough bad experiences behind him to make him a bad choice for a youngling to marry. His appearance would probably make her run and hide. Something Hugh wanted to avoid. He was not the young good looking man he had been in his youth. Battle and torture had seen to that.

The servant openet the door to the meeting hall and let Hugh past him. The first face he recognised was that of Duke Wolf Colston who stood there with a hugh smile in his bearded face. Hugh returned the smile out of politeness. He liked Wolf but sometimes he was not so happy with his plans.

Hugh saw the young woman standing beside the duke and noticed her simple clothing. She could not be older than 20 he thought to himself. She almost matched Hughs own expression. She was not happy to be here. Wolf put an arm around Hughs shoulder and smiled down to the woman.

"This is my friend Captain Hugh Dryden." Wolf said with a grin. "And this is Lady Sian Tudor. Your bride to be, my dear friend."

Hugh nodded to Sian. "Milady, i have heard much about you." He smiled towards her. Damn Wolf, he cursed inwards. The lady did not seem to like this any better than him.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

”You sent for me … “

Sian’s courtesy was demure enough, though her voice held an edge and clearly showed the older man she did not appreciate being summoned by a stranger in her own home. She avoided the eyes the seemed to scan her slender frame. She felt rather than saw the tinge of disapproval at her appearance, yet when she lifted her eyes once more no hint of that expected criticism was evident, rather she saw … compassion … ? She dismissed the idea reminding herself that this man was forcing her into an unwanted marriage, doubtless to rid himself of his duty as guardian and to no doubt pass the role of protector to her new husband.

Any dialogue was rendered unnecessary as the guest arrived.

Seeing the Duke’s broad smile of welcome, Sian studied her feet.
She was in no haste to meet her groom and now the time had arrived, she found herself dreading the moment.

"This is my friend Captain Hugh Dryden."

The jovial introduction left her no alternative but to lift her head to meet the man who stood opposite her.

"And this is Lady Sian Tudor."

Sian’s eyes widened as they met the visage before her. She just managed not to flinch back in shock.

" ... Your bride to be, my dear friend.”

Whatever she had expected, she could never have imagined that a man such as the one who now faced her would ever have been offered as a suitor.

"Milady, i have heard much about you."

The smile softened his features, yet their strangeness accentuated by the the eye patch made the attempt at friendliness forced and somehow ... unnatural.

With effort she forced herself to respond.

”Then you will have heard of the recent death of my father Sir … “

The words had been an attempt at defiance, yet Sian found that her voice shook.

” … and ... "

She continued regardless.

" ... of my guardian’s … insistence … that I marry … “

There. She had said it. Made it clear to him that this match was not in any way of her making.
She held her breath as she watched the expressions play across that unfamiliar face before her, almost fearful now of his response.
In her nervousness she continued.

” … either way you have an advantage over me Sir … for I know only of name … and that you have been a fighter … “

Her eyes took in his form, noting that it was still intimidating despite whatever it was he had lived through.

” … which is very obvious … “

She concluded softly, aware belatedly that she had voiced her observation.

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh tilted his head towards the young lady. Thankfully she was not as young as he had imagined. Still he had preferred a more experienced wife. He did not have a choice though. He noticed her nervousness when she saw him and smiled ironically.

"I am a fighter Lady Tudor. Anything else you wan't to know you are free to ask."

He accepted a glass of wine from the servant with a nod. He did not tell her anything about his time in Windermere dungeon. It was best left in the past and he did not wan't to see her reaction when she understood why he had been inprisoned. Not even his closest friends or family knew anything about that, Except Wolf.

He held eye contact with Sian until Wolf started to speak. Then he turned his head towards his old friend.

"Now that you have met i am afraid we must make haste with the marriage." Wolf sent an apoligising look to Sian. "Your father had many enemies and they would stop for nothing to gain this land. That is one of the reasons i sent for Hugh here." He smiled sheepishly at both of them. "Hugh know how to keep what is his and when you marry him that includes you."

Hugh stared at his friend as he began to understand Wolf's agenda. He had wondered why just he had to marry Sian Tudor. Now it was clear to him. During his capture he had lost everything. Land, title and wife. Even if he did not wan't to do with politics he would die to protect all he had and Wolf knew that.

Wolf smiled to Hugh. "Here i have the documents that claims you are entitled to retrieve your old title as count. It only need your signature." Wolf handed the document to Hugh with a wide smile.

Hugh felt his heart beat fast in his chest as he held the pergament. He had been robbed of his title but now he was not sure he really wanted it.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"I am a fighter Lady Tudor. Anything else you wan't to know you are free to ask."

Sian eyed him over her glass of wine. A spirited reply, she calculated, yet not hostile. His eye met hers and she tried to gauge his expression. He wasn’t challenging, nor was he aggressive. For the first time, she wondered if this marriage was actually Hugh Dryden’s wish, after all he did not strike her as a man who would choose a woman such as her with whom to settle.

"Now that you have met i am afraid we must make haste with the marriage."

As one they turned to their matchmaker, both wearing a similar askance expression.

"Your father had many enemies and they would stop for nothing to gain this land. That is one of the reasons i sent for Hugh here."

Sian stared at her fiancé and began to speak.

”My father had enemies? … But how … ?”

Her shocked words went unnoted as the Duke continued.

"Hugh knows how to keep what is his and when you marry him that includes you."

Though Sian saw the sense of the comment, she flinched at being called any man’s property, though she knew that would indeed be true.

"Here I have the documents that claims you are entitled to retrieve your old title as count. It only need your signature."

Sian frowned … so that was it … Hugh Dryden would act as husband and protector in return for lands and title! She forced herself to drain the cup of wine hastily and without looking at the two men, she murmured.

”As all that is needed is a signature … “

Her look of accusation rested firmly on Wolf Colston.

” … my presence is hardly necessary … “

With the merest glance at Hugh, she bobbed a perfunctory courtesy and turned to make her way to the door.

If the Duke were to buy her protection there was nothing she could do, but she didn’t have to like it and certainly didn’t need to watch whilst the “deal” was sealed.

Surely her father could not have had anything like this in mind when he appointed the Duke as her guardian she thought as the all too familiar knot of loss tightened in her breast

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh barely noticed Sian's withdrawal. He was only focused on the document in his hands. If he just signed it he would be a noble once again and lord of Castle Clairmont. If he said no he would leave just as he arrived. With nothing gained or lost. It was a long time since he had been with a woman, even longer since he was married to one. Hugh was not sure he would be the best husband for a young girl like Sian. Being husband and wife meant he had to bed her to bring heirs to the world and Hugh was not a gentle lover. He had never been gentle in anything he did and he was not sure how to learn now.

He looks up at Wolf. "If i say no. What will happen to Clairmont or Sian then?"

"There are two lords that have claimed her allready. They both say they only offer protection but i know they have plans for the castle." Wolf suddenly looks very seriously at his friend. "This was my only choice. I promised Sian's father to care for and protect her. If i was not married i would take her as wife myself." Wolf sighs deeply. "I know you will do your best to keep her safe if not happy."

Hugh smiles slightly ironic. "I don't seem to do women happy. At least not those i am married to."

"Don't compare Sian with Marie please. They are totally different. Marie is a spoiled and selfish woman." Wolf sound so irritated that Hugh have to smile.

"I believe you, but to the important matter. Who are the two lords that have claimed Sian." If Hugh was to accept his fate he needed to know his rivals.

"Both have castles not far from here. It is Baron Rothe Manderville. He are of French lineage but have sworn his loyality to King Henry. Or rather the kings council." The king was only two years old and therefore the rule of England was in the hands of an appointed council.

"The other one is Count Darien Cliffard. He is not much older than Sian and i suspect it is his brother Harold that is behind the claim. Mostly because rumors say that Darien is more interrested in those of the same gender." Wolf grins suddenly before he get serious again.

"The biggest threat is Baron Manderville. He are looking for his third wife. The first one died in childbirth but there are sayings that he killed his second. Not a very likeable man. He is in your own age and a very skilled swordsman."

Hugh nods and look down at the document again. If he denies this marriage he would leave Sian in the hands of either Manderville or Cliffard. If something happens to her after he left he would feel guilty for the rest of his life. He made his decision and quickly scribbled his signature in the bottom corner of the document before handing it to Wolf.

"Good choice my friend." Wolf said with a smile. "Sian don't know anything about the interrest from any lords. I have tried to keep her safe but unknowing. I am afraid that is about to end. You need to get to know her. We will have the marriage as soon as possible. Talk with her."

Hugh and Wolf shake hands and Hugh walks of to find his unwilling bride.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Sian made her exit unheeded. With a heavy heart she crossed the vast hallway and made her way slowly up the stone steps intending to return to her chambers.
It was obvious to her that her intended husband had been “bought” for her, but though that had irked her pride initially she found herself wondering how her father could have made enemies and just what it was she had to be protected from.

She paused at her doorway then turned and headed down the corridor towards the grander rooms that looked out over the approach to the castle, the rooms that had belonged to her father. Slowly she walked through his dressing room, her hands lovingly grazing the heavy wooden furniture as she did so. Hesitating she entered the vast bedchamber and crossed to stare sightlessly out of the window.

Sian had always been kept ignorant of the conflicts within the region; indeed she had more limited political awareness than most young girls of her age. Not only had she been sheltered, but isolated for much of her life. She had seldom had the company of those her own age so perhaps the choice of an elder bridegroom was fitting. At least that is what she tried to tell herself as her thoughts went back to the battle-scarred appearance of Hugh Dryden.

Sian’s eyes moved to the bed and shivered at the thought of what “wifely duties” she might be obliged to perform with him there. Though she had received some “ambiguous” instruction as she had entered her mid-teens, she still had but a vague notion of what it would mean to “lay” with a man.
Panic began to fill her and tears welled and threatened to fall.

It was all too much.
She wasn’t ready to be a bride, wife and mother.
It seemed only yesterday that her father lay dying in that very bed.
How could she survive married to a man who cared nothing for her, whose only interest was wealth and status?
True, Captain Dryden had seemed indifferent to her, yet once married, how would he treat her then?
Would he be patient, kindly, loving? Or would he be demanding and aggressive?

So lost in thought was she that she did not hear the approach of her “fiancé” until he moved to cross the room towards her.
Involuntarily she stepped back finding her back against the cold ledge of the window behind her.
Of all the times for him to approach her, she did not want to see him now and neither did she want him in her father’s room.

”Did … did … you lose your way …?”

Sian managed to murmur, her eyes lowering to avoid his and seemingly intent upon studying the fine matting upon the floor as she attempted to regain her composure and await Hugh’s reply.

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh hesitated at her words. All her movement and her tone of voice told him that she did not wan't him there. He could not really blame her. He was intruding her personal sphere. He stood silent for a moment before he opened his mouth.

"I came here looking for you Lady Tudor." He tries to sound calm and comforting. A feat he was not used to. This young woman would become his wife and he did not know her, or she him. He watches her as her eyes are averted from his. He sighs deeply.

"I wan't you to know that i will not do anything to hurt you." Try to avoid hurting her he corrected himself in his thoughts. "This marriage is something you do not desire, i know that. I myself did not look for a wife as well but i hope we can do our best to make it as good as we can."

Hugh eyes her as he continues. "I may not be what you wan't but i can be what you need. Your father had enemies and now they are yours. In marriage they will be mine." He smiles lightly at her. "Wolf only had your best in mind when he contacted me. He know me and i hope you will judge me as who i am and not who you think i am." Hugh turns to leave the room. "I am sorry that i invaded your privacy."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"I came here looking for you Lady Tudor."

Sian nodded an acknowledgement, her only response as she continued to fix her gaze downwards.

"I wan't you to know that i will not do anything to hurt you."

His unexpected comment drew her eyes to his instantly.
How could he know her fears? More importantly that one statement had been an effort to at least try to allay her fears.

"This marriage is something you do not desire, i know that.

She had the grace to blush at his observation, after all she had made that very clear to him.

”I myself did not look for a wife as well but i hope we can do our best to make it as good as we can."

Again it was what she had guessed, but his honesty and generosity took her by surprise.

"I may not be what you wan't but i can be what you need.
Your father had enemies and now they are yours. In marriage they will be mine."

Sian knew that his words made sense and noted they were more … diplomatically … phrased than the Duke’s had been.

As if sensing her resentment of her guardian, Dryden continued.

"Wolf only had your best in mind when he contacted me.
He know me and i hope you will judge me as who i am and not who you think i am."

The soft censure made Sian reflect for the first time that perhaps he too had pressures she could hardly guess at.

"I am sorry that i invaded your privacy."

She watched as he drew away from her driven by a sense of fairness to respond to the reassurance he had offered her.

” … Captain … “

Her voice halted him. She took a step towards him as he turned back to face her.

” … thank you … “

Her smile was shy and uncertain.
She did not know just what to say to him, but found the words spilling out.

”This has all been so much … so fast … my father had never spoken to me of my marriage … so when he … died … “

She halted and took a steadying breath, her eyes drawn to the bed as if seeing him once more.

”This was his room … “

She stated hoping he would understand why it was that she had not welcomed his appearance at first.

”Perhaps you might … like to visit the stables … ? My father loved horses, as I do … and we could … talk … “

She offered.

” … or if you prefer … I could organise some refreshments … show you around the castle … ?”

She eyed him hopefully awaiting his answer, though aware that he might just as easily choose to return to the Duke.
Perhaps now he had done his duty and reassured her the next time she would see him would be at their wedding….?

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh Dryden was not a well spoken man and he was surprised that she showed him such a welcome. He had been prepared to just tell her what was on his mind and turn on his heels to leave her alone. Now he stood in the doorway, hesitating. He suddenly wished that his friend Nicholas was there with him. Nicholas always knew how to talk with the ladies at court. Even before Hugh's injuries Nicholas was more popular among the fairer sex. Now even more so. Most women had to force themself to look at Hugh's face. Nicholas on the other hand was a handsome man with blonde hair and striking blue eyes.

Both Hugh and Nicholas had served as Sir Wolf Colston's squires in their early years. They had fought together in many campaigns and there was none that Hugh trusted more than Nicholas Becker, both in fights and otherwise. None that he rather had at his side now.

"It would be a honor to follow you to the stables and talk. I like horses as well." He said with a tentative smile. Hugh offered his arm to her and marbled by how well her small hand fitted there. She was so small compared to his own size. He was pleased that she didn't show the fear some ladies had shown him. He carefully led her out to the castle yard and headed towards the stables.

He was careful not to walk to fast and was fully aware of her arm in his. She felt so delicate to him that he was afraid that a wrong move on his part would crush her. Hugh was not used to feel this uncertainity when dealing with anyone. He felt a strange need to protect Sian and that made him feel uneasy. They stopped outside the stable but Hugh did not withdraw his arm from her. He saw Nicholas in the distance and his friend grinned at him, which made Hugh clench his teeths just for a moment. He turned his head towards Sian.

"I am sorry that your father died and i hope i can be of some help to you." Hugh felt a little embaressed. He was not the kind of man anymore that was useful enough to help anyone. During his captivity he had lost more than an eye. He had lost his will to live. At Windermere he had broken something no knight should have to. He had given in to despair.

Neither Hugh Dryden or Sian Tudor was aware of the malicious eyes that was on them from the castle wall. The tall man looked at them with hatred and greed before he turned and walked away.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Sian watched Hugh Dryden’s face as he hesitated. Her eyes held his one. She was becoming familiar with his unconventional appearance and could only guess what he had been through to alter his visage so dramatically.

"It would be a honor to follow you to the stables and talk. I like horses as well."

The smile warmed her and drew an answering one from Sian. She had not expected him to offer her his arm and was touched by the simple and undemanding first contact with the man it seemed she would marry. Stepping forward, her hand made light contact with his body and then rested there as she moved forward towards the stables. At such close quarters, Sian became increasingly aware of the man’s strength. In stature he dwarfed her and although she guessed he had seen fitter days, she found nothing wanting in the muscles she felt beneath her hand. Rather than be intimidated by such masculinity having naively accepted Hugh’s assurances that he would not hurt her, she found his presence strangely comforting.

"I am sorry that your father died and i hope i can be of some help to you."

Her eyes lifted to his, suppressed tears were never far from the surface when her father was mentioned, but she smiled once more and smiled more easily with him.

”Thank you … I never knew my mother and Father … was perhaps over protective .. “

She smiled fondly remembering the attention he had lavished on her.

” … and perhaps I have become more isolated than is usual … “

She confessed seeing for the first time that this made her all the more vulnerable as long as she remained unprotected.

” … he has been my only true companion … and I miss him … so much … “

Her voice was husky with emotion as she spoke for the first time of the depth of her sense of loss, but she blinked and held back the tears and chose to gaze instead at the horses that they had halted before.

”But … I will do my best to … adjust … to my future Captain Dryden … “

The formality of her words seemed mismatched as her eyes raised shyly to his.

”… and suppose I must trust my father’s and in turn the Duke’s judgement as to what path that will take … “

She conceded.

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh patted her hand gently. "I trust Wolf Colston with my life and i truly believe he have your best interrest in mind." He smiles down at her. "No need to call me Captain. My name is Hugh. If you keep saying Captain it might get awkward." He leads her inside the stable where four horses is located, including his own.

"I knew both my mother and father. None of them was that caring as your father seemed to be. You must cherish the time you had with him. You are lucky that he cared enough to see to it that your future is secured."

Just then they heard the sound of men running outside. Hugh turned his head and saw Nicholas standing in the door. "Get armed, we are under attack!"

"Who are attacking us." Hugh asked as he drew Sian with him to the door opening.

"From the colors i must say it is Baron Manderville." Came Nicholas responce. With a curse Hugh turn to Sian.

"Go to Wolf and stay hidden. We will deal with this." Hugh gives her a quick hug and nods to Nicholas. "Let's go." Both knights turn and run towards the barracks. "How much troops we have?" Hugh asks his friend as they enter the armour room.

"Not much. 22 archers and almost 40 footsoldiers." With the help of servants both knights is soon dressed in their heavy armours. Hugh gives the order to the archers to man the castle walls and the footsoldiers to gather at the castle yard.

He eyes his troops with critical eyes until he finally nods. Hugh draws his broadsword and smiles lightly at Nicholas who are at his side.

"We are facing a foe that outnumber us two to one. They are well armed and well trained. That is what we have against us troops!" Hughs voice echoes over the yard for his archers and footsoldiers to hear.

"What we have for us is that this is our homeland and that we will not let any invaders take that away from us. We have more to loose than them and we will crush anyone that tries to take it away from us!"

Hugh smiles and raises his sword to the skies. Now he had a purpose and he felt how his spirits rise in the prospect of the heat of battle once again.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"I trust Wolf Colston with my life and i truly believe he have your best interrest in mind."

Sian was amazed at the intensity of his words and nodded in agreement.

"No need to call me Captain. My name is Hugh. If you keep saying Captain it might get awkward."

Sian blushed and grinned at the truth of the comment.

” … and I’m Sian … as you say … more suitable than “Lady Tudor” given the circumstances … “

She dimpled him a teasing smile, realising that she had now relaxed in his presence.

"I knew both my mother and father. None of them was that caring as your father seemed to be.”

She glanced at him wordlessly curious about his background, his history as she reached out and stroked the nose of one of the horses.

”You must cherish the time you had with him. You are lucky that he cared enough to see to it that your future is secured."

She opened her mouth to respond and halted at an unfamiliar cry beyond the stable.

"Get armed, we are under attack!"

A good looking fair haired man had entered the stable and directed his words to her fiancé.

"Who are attacking us."

Sian’s mind spun as the words sank in.

” … attack … “

She repeated incredulously. She had never known her home to be under siege before. She trembled as she found herself drawn securely against Hugh Dryden, his eyes already scanning the horizon as the conversation continued.

"From the colors i must say it is Baron Manderville."

Sian had heard the name, but it meant little to her. In contrast it drew a curse from Hugh. Her anxiety rose as she saw his dark expression.

"Go to Wolf and stay hidden. We will deal with this."

Strangely reluctant to leave the safety of Hugh’s side, Sian nodded none-the-less and was rewarded by being drawn against him in a reassuring embrace. With a brief glance at the unknown blonde companion, Sian turned on her heel and ran towards the house in search of the Duke.

Her cries drew the older man quickly into the hallway.

” … a Baron … Man… Manderville … “

She responded when asked just who they were under attack from.

” … but why..? and why now …? “

Her questions halted as she heard the sound of shouts beyond the Castle.

” … will Hugh be safe…?”

She asked with concern her eyes flying to the door as if it might be flung open any minute.

”… surely the threat is not … serious …?”

She questioned, the grave expression upon the Duke’s face scaring her as she stood helplessly unaware of what was occurring outside.

 

[Gothmaster]

The battle was long and bloody with much losses on each side. Hugh and Nicholas looked at the battlefield and then eachother. Nicholas had a bad wound in his shoulder but Hugh had only minor scratches from the fight. It was the archers that won the battle in favor for Castle Clairmont. Manderville's men had no rest from the death from above and they had retreated after three hours of bloody fighting.

Now the tired but happy defenders returned inside the castle walls. Hugh and Nicholas was the first to meet the praises from the citizens. "Better check that shoulder of yours." Hugh patted Nicholas on the back with a tired smile.

Hugh then walked to the chapel to send praises to god that they fought of the attackers. After a simple prayer he returns outside to look to the men that fought so bravely. They all deserved all the praise they could get.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"This is all about ... me ...!?!"

Sian's voice rose incredulously.

"This fighting ... the injuries ... the killing ... !?"

Opposite her, the Duke sighed, regretting that after hours of questioning, of insisting she had a right to know what was happening outside her own home, he had finally relented fractionally and informed her of the Baron’s motives and his ambitions regarding her, or rather her father’s lands and possessions.

”Not you Sian … his aspirations are purely mercenary. Marriage is but a necessary legality.”

He did not tell her further about the Baron’s known and suspected past history, nor that her consent or lack of it would be irrelevant to Baron Manderville …

”… which is why a quick marriage to Hugh … “

He was interrupted by the sound of voices in the hall followed by the door being pushed rapidly opened.

”Sir … a shoulder wound … if you could .. assist … “

She watched as a few quiet words were exchanged at the doorway.

”Bring him in here … we must see him tended to at once… “

Sian sprung up with a gasp. It could only be Hugh if the man were to be brought in here. She ran to open the door wider as she heard heavy boots approach then froze as her eyes met those of the fair-haired man she had met briefly in the stables.

”Over here, Nicholas my boy, how go things? The matter is … sorted no doubt … “

The Duke questioned as he seated the injured man.

”It is … though … “

He glanced at Sian and decided to withhold the details until such a time as he could be alone with Wolf.

”They are in retreat. The Castle is defended.”

Wolf nodded and made no further inquiry. The sparse reply in itself told him that the battle had not been easy and no doubt losses had been sustained.

”But what of Hugh…?”

Sian enquired worriedly.

”He is safe…?”

 

[Gothmaster]

Hugh felt the adrenalin fade away as he cleaned up in the bathtub a greatful servant had prepared for him. The water was cold and refreshing and he scrubbed his face with determination to rub of the filth of battle. Hugh knew there would not be much time before Manderville would send an emissary to discuss the future of Sian. From what Hugh had heard Manderville commanded a small army. He had been sure to capture Clairmont in one attack. And by doing so getting Sian Tudor under his control. She would have no choice to marry the man.

Hugh was determined to not let that happen. Maybe Hugh was not the right man for Sian but he was at least not dangerous to her health. He almost dreaded the decision he had been forced to make but it was made in Sian's best interrest. If he married her and was killed it would not be wise for Manderville to try and take her at this time. It would not show him at his best to try and marry the grieving widow. It would give Wolf at least a year to find a solution to her dilemma.

Hugh take on the clean outfit he find on the bed. The servant had been smart enough to prepare everything. With a pleased smile he walks out to find Wolf and his bride to be. He find them and Nicholas where he left them a couple of hours earlier. Sian spots him immediately and rushes to meet him just to stop a armlength from him. He read the question in her eyes.

"I am fine. It was Nicholas who was wounded and we lost many good men out there." He looks up at Wolf who approaches them slowly.

"The marriage need to be performed as fast as we can make it happen. Forget the festivities. We can have a feast later on when this threat is taken care of." He looks at Sian with a sad smile. "It need to be done. I had hoped we would have more time to get to know eachother."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

It was a while before she was reassured that Hugh was fit and well. Finally he came striding into the room, his face set with an expression that was difficult to read. He did however take time to reassure her:

"I am fine. It was Nicholas who was wounded and we lost many good men out there."

Again there were no details, but she could only guess at the injury and deaths that had been caused, though she still did not fully understand how the Baron could hope to gain her father’s lands if she did not wish to marry him …

"The marriage need to be performed as fast as we can make it happen.”

The words were more to her guardian than to Sian.

”Forget the festivities. We can have a feast later on when this threat is taken care of."

Just as Sian was about to protest, after all he was talking over her about a marriage that concerned HER and surely was ultimately her decision, the smile and soft words stopped her in her tracks.

"It need to be done. I had hoped we would have more time to get to know each other."

Touched by the genuine regret in his manner, Sian nevertheless felt out-maneuvered.

” … the situation cannot be so grave … “

She questioned helplessly though she in reality she realised that she had few options.
It was the Duke who spoke.

”Unless you marry Hugh, this castle and everyone in it are at risk of further attack.
The Baron cares nothing for your consent … or lack of it Sian…”

He hesitated and exchanged a glance.

”Marriage offers the only form of protection … marriage to Hugh … doubly so … “

Solemnly Sian nodded acknowledging the truth of her situation.
Shyly she glanced across at Hugh. She was not ready for marriage.
He was still a stranger to her. She needed time to get used to the idea of becoming a wife, his wife.

”But … when? … Surely not …?”

Just how quickly were they suggesting they wed?
She’d always imagined festivities, celebrations … a groom of her choice.
Now it just seemed to be a legality to get over with…
But what else could she do …?

 

[Gothmaster]

”But … when? … Surely not …?” Sian's words let the both men know of her uncertainity. Hugh sighed deeply. He shared her concern. Sian did not know him and he did not know her. One thing he knew though was his need to protect her. She was so young and naive when it came to the intentions of men.

"We need to marry as soon as it can be arranged." Hugh say to Sian before he turn to Wolf.

"How fast can it be arranged?" Wolf smiles slightly at Hughs words.

"We do it today, before it get to late. We have a priest here. He can do it whenever we wish him to. Give me one hour and you will be husband and wife." Wolf look toward Sian. "It will all work out to the best, i promise you that."

"Need a word in private Hugh." Wolf say before he walk away.

Hugh take Sian's small hand in his and he gently places his lips on the back of her hand. "It will be fine." He say with a smile before he turn and follow his friend.

"You know you have to be quick to consumate the marriage?" Wolf asks with slight concern in his voice. "Manderville have very good connections. Would not surprise me if he come with a dokument stating that the marriage is illegal. Probably have witnesses to some crime you have been guilty of."

Hugh listens intently and know that Wolf have a point in what he is saying. His time in Windermere might be what Manderville will use against him. He nods.

"Let me worry about that." He say and walk over to Sian.

"Wolf will arrange our marriage with the priest. I am very sorry about the haste but we see no other choice."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"We need to marry as soon as it can be arranged."

Sian’s eyes widened as the reality of her rapidly approaching marriage became clear.

"How fast can it be arranged?"

Again the two men were discussing her future as she stood helplessly.

"We do it today, before it get to late.”

Sian was speechless with shock as the discussion continued.

”We have a priest here. He can do it whenever we wish him to. Give me one hour and you will be husband and wife."

Sian could not believe the haste. One hour!? She could not … would not marry with such haste.

"It will all work out to the best, i promise you that."

She was not reassured by the Duke’s words, nor by his insistence that he take Hugh aside and exchange the hushed words she could not hear. Shivering she drew near to the open fire. This couldn’t be happening to her! In such a short time her groom had been chosen, her home and lands attacked and now she was being married off with indecent haste.

She turned as the somewhat imposing figure of her groom approached her. She let him take her hand in his, her eyes widening in surprise at the lightest of kisses that he pressed on the back of her hand.

"It will be fine."

His eyes seemed to search hers as if willing her to believe him. The statement was simple and aimed to reassure, yet Sian could not suppress the anxiety and fear at becoming betrothed to a man who though he appeared to be kind was still a total stranger to her.

"Wolf will arrange our marriage with the priest.”

A marriage within the hour is not what she wanted. Even if it was a union she had sought, she would have no time to prepare herself. There would be no festivities in fact she would be struggling to even find herself an appropriate gown to wear. And yet she had no other option. She had to marry as directed to prevent further injury and death to the men who had served her father for so many years.
Yet the sacrifice was almost too great ….

”.. I am very sorry about the haste but we see no other choice."

The words were sympathetic, yet perhaps it was that kindness that drew her from her numbed shock.

”If there is no other choice … “

Her voice faltered as she gave her reluctant assent.
Too aware of the tears that were threatening Sian averted her eyes and tried to compose herself.

”I’ll go and … “

Again she halted. She had to go prepare herself, but how? And in so short a time.

”I’ll return within the hour … “

She murmured, her eyes raising finally to meet Hugh’s, her fear and distress clearly evident as she took a hasty leave of the gentlemen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

Once free of the room, Sian fled to her quarters, throwing herself upon the bed and curling up as she stared sightlessly at the fire feeling the panic rising in her to an almost uncontrollable height.
The light knock went unnoticed.
It was only the presence of the Duchess of Carlisle that drew her from her horrified reverie.

One look at the young girl showed her that words were useless. Instead she merely crossed to sit beside Sian on the bed and drew the terrified girl into her arms. For precious minutes, she allowed Sian to indulge in the soft sobs that now broke from her. Soothing her wordlessly until Sian calmed, the Duchess finally drew back and smiled softly as a hand reached out to smooth the riot of hair that had become tangled.

”These are terrible times Sian … “

She began sadly, remembering the way her father had doted on his daughter and kept her all too sheltered in her upbringing.

” … but none of this is of Wolf or Hugh’s doing … “

She watched as the girl nodded, her expression still tragic.

” … there are worse matches … as you would find Sian should this marriage not take place … “

Though the words were filled with sympathy, they were direct.

Seeing that Sian had calmed, the elder lady gave instructions for the servants to attend her.
Resignedly Sian rose to remove her mourning garments, her slender frame clad merely in her undergarments as she awaited the water to be scented and warmed and brought to her room.

”This ... isn’t how I ever imagined my wedding day to be … “

The soft words drew the Duchess to Sian’s side.

”I knew my mother would never be able to see my married, yet I always imagined that my father would … “

Resolutely Sian blinked back the tears that threatened to fall.
She was determined to go through with the union that had become necessary.

” … I don’t even have a wedding gown … “

The elder woman admired Sian’s brave compliance and smiled at her words.

” … let me take care of that … “

She murmured cryptically moving aside as the servants entered.

”Make ready … I’ll be back shortly … "

Intrigued by her words, Sian placidly went through the preparations and allowed her hair to be brushed and dressed until finally dismissing her attendants.
Checking the clock Sian noted that time had flown by.
There were a mere 20 minutes left.

”… God … “

She exclaimed as her stomach seemed to somersault with a knot of nerves as she thought once more of the bride groom awaiting her.

”… Sian … “

The Duchess's voice drew Sian's gaze upwards, yet it halted incredulously as it fixed upon the most beautiful Wedding Gown she had ever seen.
She stood and gasped as the ornate fabric was laid across the bed.

” … the gown was your mother’s … your father could never part with it … "

Sian drew close and lovingly touched the garment.

" ... when he spoke to Wolf of your marriage, he had always intended for you to be wed in your mother’s bridal gown …”

For the first time Sian smiled.
If only in this way, she could be close to her dead parents, she could know that this at least was what they had wanted for her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

It was a mere 15 minutes later, just before the hour had expired that Sian presented herself in the room she had fled 55 minutes earlier.
She had no idea if her bride groom would have changed for the ceremony. With all the fighting and danger, she was prepared for the possibility that he might arrive still battle worn.
Yet despite the forced haste of the ceremony and her timidity at being joined with such a man as Hugh Dryden, Sian could not deny that she hoped he would be pleased by her appearance and at the very least not regret that he had felt obligated to take her as his bride …

Sian in Bridal Gown

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Seems Sian has lost her Bride Groom.

Despite PMs my writing partner seems to have been AWOL without contact for over a month.

If anyone would like to take over the role of Hugh Dryden then please PM interest.

Perhaps to keep the story and make the thread a bit different, it might be interesting to introduce the character of Baron Manderville as rival for possession of Sian ...

Alternatively, we could use this story and build up a thread with more players.
Possible characters could be:
Wolf Duke of Carlisle - Sian's guardian,
His wife the Duchess of Carlisle,
Nicholas, Hugh's best friend.

In addition of course to Hugh Dryden and Baron Manderville as above.

Please PM any offers or suggestions.

It would be a shame to let this story die.

Btw: Though Sian is dressed and ready for a wedding, that doesn't necessarily mean that something or someone won't prevent the ceremony from taking place ... or the consummation of the union ...

As this story has only just started, all twists are possible...

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

I have a possible Baron ... anyone interested in playing Hugh Dryden?

Please pm offers ....

 

[chris2c4u]

Thanks to Delicious Maiden for letting me join as the Baron...

Baron Rothe Manderville sat on his horse atop the knoll and looked at the walls of the castle. A few small fires burned, bodies were strewn on the field, mostly his men.

"Well, I think that went rather well," he said to Captain Jacquard who turned his own horse around and looked at his commander.

"My Lord?" the question could not be kept out of his voice; the men had been forced back with heavier losses than the enemy and they had not even got anyone into the castle.

"The attack."

Jacquard did not reply but feared for his master's judgement.

"Now, we attack again," the Baron said simply.

"Sir, the men - they need time to recover - we need to re-supply..."

The Baron turned his thin face towards his captain.

"There is no need of that. This time we are going to ride in. Across the drawbridge."

"My Lord - I don't.." Jacquard looked at the drawbridge, resolutely closed to them.

"The attack was a feint," the Baron said as if talking to a child. "Now, my men inside the castle will be slaughtering the gatekeepers and preparing to open the gates of the castle for us. Gather the men."

A feint! Jacquard could hardly believe the cruelty of the Baron, to have so many men die when they could have just opened the gates before. As if reading his mind, Manderville continued his explanation.

"Now, they will be weakened - and they only had a small force to begin with. They will also be jubilant and off their guard thinking we are defeated. Gather the men and tell them that the castle is about to be opened to us. Make sure they know there will be plunder - and women. Though first - they must help me find the woman I want."

The Baron smiled to himself as his captain rode off to rally the troops.

"Yes, Lady Tudor," he said, "you think you're safe in your mighty Castle Clairmont. Soon to me my Castle Clairmont. Soon to be my Lady Tudor." He laughed to himself, frightening a crow out of the tree overhead. If flew away with a lazy flap of its wings, cawing.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

With thanks to Chris for being my Baron ... do your worst! *ggls*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

”Lady Tudor …. Your father would have been so proud …”

Sian started as she heard Wolf’s voice the first indication that he had entered the room in which she waited.
Swiftly he made his way towards her and took her hand pressing it reassuringly.

”And you look just like your mother … “

Again his words surprised her.

”You knew her? You knew her when …?”

The smile upon the face she had come to regard almost as an enemy seemed amused.

” … on her wedding day, aye … Hugh’s a lucky man … “

Sian’s expression was unconvinced even as she took the arm he offered her.

”Despite the … circumstances … this union could well be the making … of both of you … “

He encouraged.

”Hugh’s a good man, though fighting many demons … that’s where you come in … “

Sian stared at Wolf, but no further explanation was forthcoming.

”See … the priest and your bride groom await.
Though short, there will be nothing amiss with the legality of the ceremony, nor the sincerity of the vows Sian … “

As if in a daze, Sian allowed Wolf to lead her through the hall, up to the small dias around which stood Hugh, his friend Nicholas and the Duchess.

As her guardian retreated to stand by his wife, Sian felt her hand taken by the man, the stranger who was to become her husband.
Though obviously battle worn, the clean clothes of deep navy and pristine boots showed Sian that he had indeed made an effort for her.
She blushed shyly as his eyes took in the appearance of his bride, his hand squeezing hers reassuringly as they turned to face the priest.

Sian listened rapt as the words of the marriage service were intoned, unsure of when her response would be necessary.
She glanced across at her intended, his face equally solemn until his eyes moved to meet hers with a reassuring smile.
Surely despite circumstances this would turn out for the best?
It would be alright, she told herself … it had to be …

And then the almighty crash beyond the hall brought the priest to a halt.
As one eyes swung round to the heavy doors as the sounds of a foray became clearly audible.

”What in heaven’s name …?”

Wolf exclamation was cut short by Hugh’s heated expletive.

”Continue…!”

Wolf’s command urged the priest who searched for his place, a wary eye on the door as he attempted to continue.
Unaware of what was happening, Sian could only stand before the priest, Hugh at her right and Wolf at her left watching the rapid movement of the priest’s lips as he recited a nonsense of words finally pausing as if for her to reply.
Madly her mind raced searching for the correct response even as the doors finally gave way ….

 

[chris2c4u]

"Here sir! Here, M'Lord!" Through the broken door stumbled two small men clad in breastplate armour and carrying swords though otherwise hardly recognisable as soldiers. They pushed a squire of the castle ahead of them and he fell to his knees onto the stone flagged floor.

The Baron walked in after the soldiers and held a dagger to the throat of the squire.

"Please excuse our clumsy entry. I had hoped for an invitation but instead we had to coax this young man to tell where his mistress was." The squire trembled with fear as the wedding party looked around; Hugh drew a dagger, the only weapon he had allowed himself and took a stride forward.

"My dear Hugh," the Baron said, pricking the squire's neck until blood trickled, "enough poor men have died today - your own forces are now defeated, many have died - would you want another innocent to die?" He again jabbed at the squire whose eyes begged Hugh and Sian silently.

Hugh came to a halt. "What do you mean by this?"

More soldiers joined them in the small room; the smell of their sweat, their breath, filling the air.

"I mean to put a halt to this pathetic ceremony and to claim Castle Clairmont as part of my demesne. It has, always been rightfully mine.." he waited for a clamour of protest to fall silent.

"My Lady," the baron gave a lupine grin towards Sian. "A pleasure to make your acquiantance."

He turned his gaze to the priest. "Now, how far had this travesty progressed? Have you joined these two?"

"It is over," Hugh blurted out. "We are married. The lands of the Lady and my own are joined."

"Sir, for your sake I hope your words are bravado for if it is so then the Lady Tudor - or Mistress Dryden - is to become widowed rather soon. Now, priest, the truth - are you finished?"

The priest looked at Dryden and back to the Baron. He shook his head slightly. Hugh growled.

"Splendid! I see we're not too late. Take Dryden," he commanded his soldiers. "Find the dungeon." Being heavily outnumbered, Hugh let the dagger fall from his hands and once again in his life he was a prisoner.

"I will decide what to do with you later - but hear me well, Hugh Dryden. If you try to organise some plot against me from your cell, or should you escape - which, by the way, if he does there will be hangings and torture for the curs that let him -" he spoke this to his own men, "then the Lady Sian will, unfortunately, meet a sad end and her lands will be plundered until every last stone will not stand on another. Do you understand?"

Hugh spat at the Baron whose face darkened even as his nostrils dilated. "Take him - and his cronies - away."

"Now, my Lady," the Baron said walking around the young woman. "Perhaps I should be at your side and let the good Churchman join us in matrimony, eh?"

He laughed at her response and put his gloved hand on her shoulder. "No, fear not. I'm not a monster," he said, making his voice pleading and sweet, his mouth close to her ear. "I won't force you to be my bride." He stroked her hair thinking of what he might force her to do. She smelt perfumed and her body was...He drew a breath.

"Shall we adjourn to the great chamber? See what my new servants are like at making food fit for a Baron and his guests?" He began to walk towards the broken door.

"I especially asked my men to ensure the domestic servants were spared. I try not to damage that which is useful to me." He looked at the squire, still on his knees and gestured for him to go. "Back to the stables. Start repairing the damage." The young man scrambled to his feet and ran sobbing from the chamber.

From outside, at a distance, a woman's screams could be heard and the ribald laughter of men.