Rebecca's Choice

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Rebecca is 21, bright, strong willed, cousin to the king, and unwed. The king is waiting for the best match for his favorite cousin, though he has long had an eye for her himself.
He wants the make a match for her that would be beneficial to the crown, and the search for such a match has begun. Rebecca has other ideas.

Rebecca reined in her horse. It was a wonderful day for a ride and she had enjoyed every moment of it. Pulling two apples from a tree, she bit deep into one and threw one on the ground for Velvet. The white mare had earned a treat today. Taking a deep breath of the wonderful warm air, she turned Velvet for home and the luxury of a hot bubble bath.

 

[Dante45]

The young woman rides off on her white horse and begins to fade in the misty waters of the small pool upon the stone floor. A dark figure has been gazing into this pool watching the young girl in this magical aparatus, contemplating something.

The images fade as the girl rides away. The figure stands as if thinking for a moment longer, then turns abruptly, the large black cape swirling like tremendous bat wings about the figure, which then walks purposfully across the stone floor and up a set of rock stairs into more darkness.

At the top of these stairs the figure stops and turns back to the large room. It is a man. Dark and tall, well over six feet. Raven black hair with light touchs of grey, but it is the eyes that one would notice first. A brilliant green. He speaks into the darkness, into the direction of the pool, "Soon Rebecca, soon." Then turns and dissapears into the dark.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Returning the castle Rebecca to Velvet to the stables instructing the stable hands to make sure she got a good rub down, she had done well today. This did prove a little difficult, as she was the only one who could handle the mare, but she was sure they would manage.

Taking the stairs two at a time she almost ran into Lady Floe. The woman gave her a scolding stare. That was no way for a lady to climb the stairs, and dressed in mens clothing again.

Becky gave a small curtsy and promised to change at once. As soon as she was at Lady Floe’s back she turned and poked her tongue at the old woman. Silly old has no idea on how to enjoy life. With a huff she returned to mounting the stairs.

In her chambers there was a tub of water awaiting her arrival. What a treasure Amy was, always anticipating her needs like she did. The girl had only been in her service for six months, but she was more like a friend than a servant was. Shedding her clothing she stepped into the tub. Mmmmmmm, perfect. She lathered to wash cloth and began to run it smoothly over her shoulder, loving the smooth feel of it. She heard the door open and close in the main chamber followed by Amy’s high pitched giggle. She rushed into the room, dropping down beside the tub, her face aglow with a wicked smile. Becky shook her head, a smile brightening her own face.

“You’ve been teasing the guards again haven’t you?” Amy giggled sheepishly.

“Ummmmm. Yes. M’Lady, have you ever tasted a mans seed?” Becky looked a little shocked at the question.

“I have never tasted a man’s anything. What’s it taste like?” Jumping up Amy kisses Beckie hard on the mouth, pushing her tongue between her lips before she had a chance to protest. Amy’s tongue was still covered in cum and Becky could taste it. It was kind of salty, and strange, but not bad. She wanted more, grabbing Amy she pulled her into the tub with a squeal. Kissing her harder, she explored the servant girl’s mouth, tasting all that is to be found there.

Becky loved bath time.

 

[Dante45]

As Rebecca and Amy were reveling in the bath, the king sat with an emissary from a far off realm.

"Our king is anxious to wed, sire. He must have a queen to sit by his side and to, of course, produce an heir. As I have explained his lands stretch into the milli-hectares and his wealth is incalculable. He stands an army of well over 500,000 souls. The rumors of your young cousins beauty has come to his ears and he has sent me to barter for her hand. Your dowry is here."

The weasle like emissary motioned to a strange looking servant who had accompanied him. The servant brought a large strong box over to the table where the king and emissary sat discussing the young womans fate.

"Of course," Said the emissary, "this is simply the first part of the dowry, to show good faith."

The king opened the box and was stunned to see it was full unto the top with rare jewels and gold. His eyes opened wider then it would seem to be possible for a human face.

"Yes." Said the king, "I can see that your master is a generous man. From the desciptions that you have given me this day, and from his honest approach with this good faith dowry, I can also see he would make a fine husband for our Rebecca."

"And a very good friend to have in time of need." Whined the emissary.

"Yes." Said the king. "I agree to the terms. Send one of your servants to inform your master. In the morning I will tell Rebecca of her Betrothal."

"Even so, sire. My Master is, let us say, very close even now. I would think he could be here by tommorrow night to claim his bride, if this meets with your approval."

"Let it be so." Said the king, then departed for his chambers, with the strongbox held tightly in his grip.

The emissary left the banquet hall were he had met the king and stepped into his room. He immediately went to a large box and opened its lid, lifting out a cloth wrapping. Removing the cloth revealed a pitch black stone. He lifted it to eye level and seemed to waver toward blacking out. Then as if seeing something he said aloud, "It is done Master." a pause... "Yes, Master. In the morning she will be told." another pause... "I told him you were close and could be here tommorrow after sunset." another pause. "I will have servants to meet you at the appointed place when you arrive."

More miles away than anyone could travel in a months let alone a day, the dark figure opened his eyes. "Then tommorrow it is Rebecca." He said smiling.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

As Becky and Amy toweled each other dry, giggling and touching, there was a light rap on the door. Wrapping herself in a towel, Amy answered it. It was Terran, one of serving boys from the main hall. He was out of breath, like he’s been running.

“M’Lady, I bring you news.” He paused, gasping for another breath. “His Grace has chosen you a husband.”

“What?” She almost swore. She knew this day would come but she had hoped to at least to have some say in the choice. “Who is it to be?”

His breath calming a little, leaning back against the door, this boy had been worth every copper she paid him as her little spy.

“I know not M’Lady. Some King from the South I think, and from what I saw, a very rich king.” Rebecca ground her teeth. So that was it. Her pig of a cousin had sold her to the highest bidder like a prize cow. Well, he would not find her such a willing piece of property to be sold. She had to think, and fast. Putting her hand on Tarran’s shoulder she asked.

“How long do I have?”
The boy looked in the eyes, then looked away, barely whispering the answer.

“He’ll be here on the morrow M’Lady.” She flopped into a seat speechless. What was she to do? She gave the boy a gold coin. He had earned it.

“You had better be getting back before your missed Terran, I’ll work something out.”

“Yes M’Lady” he checked the hall, then left silently.

Any lifted Becky's chin and kissed her softly on the lips. They would make the most of this night fir it may well be their last together.

 

[Dante45]

In the darkness of early morning, Rebecca quietly moved through the halls of the castle. No candle, it would be to risky. She was moving along the long corridor, her hands feeling the wall searching for the hidden door. "Ah..." She whispered as her hands found the small indentation that when pressed and turned would open the secret escape path out to the forest. The door opened silently.

She stepped into the darkness and closed the doorway behind her. As she turned to start her journey of escape, a flash of light erupted before her. A candle within a box! Her eyes adjusted to the light and she saw the King, at his side with the candledbox stood the emissary.

"As I informed his majesty last night, it seems your cousin has other plans for the day, that is rather than meet her new husband." The wicked little man smiled a serpents smile.

"Rebecca!" Cried the King. "How dare you attempt such a thing! To make me the fool, girl!" He stepped forward and swung his huge hand toward her face before, in her stunned immobility, she was able to react. Just before the King's stunning blow could connect, the emissary, with a speed that seemed inhuman, caught his arm.

"Forgive me your majesty." He crooned quickly. "I don't mean to interfer, sire. But, remember she is my Master's betrothed and I would be severly punished, and the dowry itself may be lowered if this beauty is damaged, could it not be so?"

The King, still furious, threw open the secret door. "Guards! Guards!" A troop of guards quickly appeared from no where. "Take my cousin.." He spat out "to the great hall. There chain her to the floor in the middle of the hall itself, next to her lady and the boy. I want one hundred guards to stand about them, every other guard facing inward toward her. Cousin.." He said turning to speak to Rebecca, "your last day in my kingdom will be in the shame of your deed. And this night you shall meet your new husband! You and your entourage shall leave this very night!"

The guards quickly gathered her up. The slurking emissary smiled and began to tell the king how gracious and generous he had been with the little wench. As Rebecca was taken into the midst of the Great Hall she saw her maid, Amy, shackeled to the floor beside the boy, Terran. She had been roughly used, and the boy looked to have been beaten. As she was chained beside her friends she heard a whisper in her ear, as if someone stood beside her, "Tonight, Rebecca, it will be tonight...."

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Chained and seated in the middle of the hall like a comen slave was a little more than Rebecca’s pride could take. Deep inside she seethed with lothing for her Cousin. King or not, he was nothing more than greedy scum, and she had developed and instant hate for that slimey little emissary. If she could but free her self she would gain great amount of pleasure from driving a dagger into his pathetic twisted little heart.

How had they known her intentions? She had told no one. Not even Amy.

The entire day was spent like that. Sitting chained together under heavy guard. The king at sent servants to pack her belongings and as nigh fall grew ever closer the heavy chests were taken out and loaded on a wagon. This was happening to fast for Rebecca. How could her life go happy to hell in such a short space of time. Again the voice whispered in her ear, sending a shudder through her entire body.

 

[Dante45]

Rebecca and the other two captives could easily see that night had fallen. The guards had lit torches to better see their wards. The captain of the guard came storming into the Great Hall. Spoke urgently to two of the guardsmen who quickly came to the servant girl and the boy. Removing the locks which held the chains to the floor, but keeping them bound by their chains they were taken away.

As they left the Hall under guard, the remaining soldiers ushered out under their captains orders. Rebecca was alone in the vast Hall. The guards had left and the monsterous room became totally silent. Only her own breathing made any noise at all. Then the doors opened slowly.

Someone entered. It was a man. Tall, perhaps 6 feet and more. He wore black, some material that seemed to draw even the light into itself, no armour but a sword on his belt, a gigantic cape that seemed to move of its own will about him. He didn't storm in, nor did her slither in as she might have imagined from the example of the emissary. He walked in slowly, purposefully. Totally at mastery with his surrondings. "Total power under total control." She thought. As he moved toward her the light from the torches seemed to dim. All to soon he stood before her and she could at last see him.

His median length hair was as black as coal with touches of grey picking up the reflected light that still exsisted in the Great Hall. His eyebrows dark, his face strong and unyielding. But his eyes, a dark living green, they seemed to give off thier own faint light.

"At last Rebecca," he spoke, a soothing voice, a deep voice to be sure but not to deep. "you are mine." He reach down to the floor and lifted the restraining bolt from the stone which held it. He did not strain, nor jerk, nor did he use a key. He simply pulled the four foot long iron stake that had been driven into solid stone from its foundation. He turned and pulled her behind him. Within moments she found herself in a carriage, still bound, with her maid and the boy, both of them cowering in the floor of the carriage. And then she felt the carriage jerk. They were on there way, where?

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Huddling together in the carriage as much for warmth as comfort, the trio had no idea what to expect next. They tried for hours to free each other, but their attempts proved useless. It was like this man had anticipated her every move, her every thought. It was frightening. After what seemed an eternity, the carriage came to a stop. Dawn was breaking slowly over the horizon. Becky didn’t know at what point they fell asleep, but it seemed as thought they were whispering to each other one moment and asleep the next. It didn’t seem like enough time had passed for a full night to be over and done.

The door to the carriage swung open ant that little weasel of an emissary looked inside. He seemed to be gloating. Becky wanted to kick that look right off his pathetic little head, but she reasoned doing such a thing might only serve to bring herself, and her friends, to more grief.

They were bundled out of the wagon into the cool morning air. Becky noted that it was much cooler than it should have been for this time of the year, even with the distance they traveled. As they were led around the wagon they were given their first look at this seemingly nameless king’s castle. Becky had never seen a building so enormous, or so dark. A cold chill ran down her spine as she looked upon what was to be her new home.

A man approached handing out orders and sending people scuttling in all directions. Two huge guards grabbed Amy and Terran, leading them away from Becky. She had expected this and warned them that it might happen. The man approached her and she looked upon him carefully. This was not the same man who had come for her last night. Without a word he unlocked her chains.

“Milady, you will follow me.”

She was so relieved to be free of her bonds she was not going to argue. Not yet anyway.

 

[Dante45]

The man led her down a stone pathway heading to the castles walls. As they approached she noticed soldiers and peasants going about their business. Carts moved to and in the path and children bustled about mothers who seemed not to care worn. All in all it seemed like a rather normal group of inhabitants for any kingdom. In fact they looked better fed than most.

Without warning, everyone around her fell to their knees, their faces turned down to the ground. She gazed around and no one was standing for as far as she could see. She began to look for the nobleman or whoever must be passing but could find no one, until she looked up. On the castle wall was the figure of the man who had 'collected' her. The cape billowing in the slight breeze. He turned and left the wall. And everyone began to stand and dust the dirt from their clothing. No grumbling under the breath just returning to their work or play. Even the children had dropped to the ground.

A few moments later and they had entered the castle, the young man who was leading her acted somewhat as a tour guide telling her the name of each of the great rooms or the hallways with the brazen torches sticking from every wall. At last they came to a large wooden doorway.

"This milady, is your room, for the present. That is until the wedding." He pushed the large door way insward and it swung open. The room was immense! Even by the standards of the royalty that she was. Two fireplaces burned brightly warming the interior to a toasty condition. Amy stood quickly as did Terran. There was a giant bed, whose posts seemed to have been made of giant trees, that was covered in lavish furs and quilts of various color and two smaller beds to each side, presumably for her two servants, her only friends now. "I will leave you to explore your new rooms, yes, there are two more to either end of this room, a bath and a room for you clothing. The Master has given orders that you may freely roam the castle, but YOU ARE NOT TO LEAVE THE CASTLE GROUNDS." This last he said slowly and with an extremely serious look on his face. "Mylady, I warn you, as one who knows, and though you may not believe it, cares. The Master will allow no one to disobey him with consequence. In this case, to disobey and leave the grounds may even forfiet the life of your girl or boy servant. I.. " he stammered. " I am sorry." He bowed and left.

"At last Rebecca..." The voice spoke in her mind, clear as the mans voice had in the hall at hom. "You are mine."

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Rebecca was so relieved to see Amy and Tarren safe in the room with her. She rushed to them, hugging them and wiping a tear from her cheek. Tarren told her it was forbidden for servants to use the main entrance and they were taken through a side door. He and Amy had been warned, under threat of death, never to use the main entry. What kind of lord was this she was to wed? She knew nothing about him. Nothing. Sighing heavily she looked around the room, the bathing room catching her eye. As she entered she was taken aback. She had never seen anything like it. A large tub looked to be carved from solid stone and set into the wall. It was filled with steamy water fed continually from a spout in the wall. Testing it with her fingers, it was the perfect temperature, as if it had been heated just for her. She smiled a little to herself at the thought of Amy and Tarren not having to cart water for bathing. This was a much better idea. The man had said the other room was for her clothing and she was desperately in need of a change of clothing. She had expected to find her clothing from home in the other room, but what she found was a little staggering. The must have been close on one hundred gowns, and not one them was hers. Shelves and chests held shoes, boots, accessories, undergarments, nothing had been overlooked and everything was in her size. Amy and Tarn had found their belongings in a chest beside their beds. They stood behind Rebecca now aghast at what was before them. The entire household at home would not have shared this many gowns between them. Eyeing the gowns, Becky selected one, a voice in her head whispering “no.” She selected another; pale pink satin gown and held it up against her. The voice whispered its approval. It was then she realized he was watching her. She wasn’t sure how, but he was watching her. Anger began to build within her and in her mind she spoke.

“Very well Milord, watch if you will.” She intended giving him something worth watching. She selected the lacy undergarments, and put the pink satin gown back, picking up the first gown she has chosen and handed them to Amy. She could feel his disapproval but ignored it, heading back to the tub. NO man would tell her how she would dress. Not now, not ever.

 

[Dante45]

The day seemed to pass quickly for them all. During her bath the same man who had brought her to her rooms called. Amy met him at the door after his knock. Upon the door opening he stepped in, followed by an entourage of servants carrying trays of food. "Would you please tell the Lady that I am Doroarck, I am to be her man servant. The Master will have the Lady dine with him this evening. I will call for her at dusk." He then abruptly left. Amy went into the bath and told Becky of the visit and gave her the message.

After her bath Tarren had built the fires up high to keep the rooms warm. They sat and talked of their new surrondings. None of them mentioning escape, but each thinking of it just the same. The day grew late, and dusk approached. Rebecca began to dress her self in the gown she had selected, but no further protestations had come to her mind.

At last Doroarck had knocked upon the door. He bowed to Becky and asked her to follow. In short order they entered what seemed a magnificent hall. Ornate in its tapestries, rugs and wall hangings. Torches burned brightly upon the walls and a roaring fire in a tremendous fireplace, with what seemed entire trees in the stead of firelogs. In the center of this hall there was a short table with two places set in what appeared to be golden settings. Candles, 100's or 1000's of candles surronded and sat upon this table. If not on the table then in fine, tall candle sticks all about the table itself.

He stood at the head of the table. Still in Black, cape flowing toward the fire as if drawn by it. Doroarck pulled the chair from the table, and offered the seat to Rebecca. She sat, and as she was seated the man sat as well.

"Doroarck," came that voice she had heard in mind and soul, "have them begin serving immediately." The man servant bowed and left quickly. "And so, at last Rebecca, we sit face to face. I have waited longer than you will ever believe and I have been very patient for who I am. You have a thousand questions, ask, I shall answer what I will." He reach forward and grasped a wine glass, she noticed his hands, dark and very toned, hands with muscle tone? She thought. He sipped his wine and looked at her and she could swear that his eyes still held that light of there own, those green hypnotic eyes.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Rebecca eyed the man who was to be her husband carefully. He was exceptionally handsome, well-built, and obviously well bread; yet it was his eyes that held her captive. Yes, she had a million questions, and to many of these she would find her own answers, for they were the only ones she could trust. He reached for her hand, lifting it to his lips and kissing it gently, his eyes never leaving hers for a moment. For some reason she had expected his touch to be cold and dark as his robes, but hie was surprisingly warm.

“Have you nothing to ask me Rebecca?”

She raised an eyebrow at him, taking her hand back and reaching fir her own wineglass. She sipped it slowly, considering her questions carefully.

“Milord, I would have you tell me everything without my asking, beginning with how you knew of me, how you seem to know my every thought, and who you are. If we are to be wed then should I not be privy to name?”

“My name is Lord Mentoras, King of Dalemere.”

He lifted his glass and drank again offering her no more information. This could not possibly be Dalemere though, it was more than a moon’s ride from her home and they could not have covered that much in a night without the aid of……..MAGIC. She went cold all over at the thought, and at the realization that she had just answered many of her own questions. He seemed to be smiling at her through his glass. He seemed almost impressed. Sipping from her own glass she asked,

“Milord Mentaros, I would hope that you will tell me more of your self then your name.”

“You will learn the all you need to know once we are wed.”

“Forgive me milord, but unless I know more of you, we will NOT be wed.You could hardly expect me to wed a man I know nothing about.”

His face remained calm; a hint of a smile still played on his lips.

 

[Dante45]

"Then more answers you shall have." He said, still smiling. "Though I must warn you, you might not like what you hear."

The servants began to enter carrying the food trays. He stood then slowly. "No. Take the food away, we will eat later." The servants bowed and left.

He came over to Rebecca and took her hand, beckoning her to stand. "Walk with me." She nodded her agreement and they started out of the hall along the rampart wall of the castle.

"My name is Eric Alantros Mentaros, Rebecca. Actually I've had many names. My history is a long one, much longer than you could ever imagine, and in this time, since I can not remember when, I have waited for you." She stopped walking and looked at him, about to speak. "No. For now just listen."

"My Lord, I have a mind of my own!" She blurted out.

"Yes. You do. But for now you will listen." She started to speak again, but found she could not! "You see Rebecca, you are a part of my destiny, as I am yours. I must, tame, that is the word, tame you. You are like a wild doe, but I must be the buck that makes you mine. For instance, the insistance to wear this gown, when you knew my preference." He said stopping again to motion at her gown. It simply changed to the pink gown that she had felt he wanted her to wear. "Yes. Magic. But I will not, I cannot use magic to make you mine. I can also see that to attempt to 'woo' you would be pointless. You need a strong hand young one, for you are almost as strong will'ed as I."

They continued walking along the top of the wall, the stars shining brightly above them. "You can speak now. But know one thing more. Tommorrow we wed, with or without your consent, it matters not here. You will, after tommorrow morning, be my wife, you will be mine. Then, we will begin your tame-ing. I cannot use my power or control of the physical world to make you mine, but I can use all the other powers of any man that are at my disposal. The first is the life of your friends. Remember this. Till the morrow, my queen."

Then, Rebecca, in an instant found herself back in her rooms, with Amy and Terran standing open mouthed at the Lady who appeared from nothing. His voiced echoing in her mind.."Till the morrow, my queen...." The morrow.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca


Rebecca was more furious than frightened. How dare he? What made her all the more furious was that there was nothing she could do about the situation. She began to pace the room like a caged animal. Both Amy and Terran knew not to say a word, not if they didn’t want to torn to shreds by her rage. There was only on thing to do when she was like this and that was to get out and walk it off so she could think.

She opened the door slamming it behind her, storming up the hall. She knew she was being watched and she didn’t care, she just needed out. At the end of the hall was heavy timber door that opened onto a staircase leading upwards. She didn’t care where it went, she just climbed. Up and up it went until it ended with another heavy door. She pushed it open with ease, almost as if it wasn’t her pushing at all. She frowned, suspecting she had help with the door. She was beginning to wonder if she could trust her own thoughts. Stepping through the door she found herself on a large open platform that served as the roof of the castle, and a vantagepoint for defense.

Stepping into the cool night air was like lifting a heavy weight off her chest. She felt like she could breath again after days of choking. It was such a relief. She let go a heavy sigh and walked to the edge, looking over the wall.

The night sky was ablaze with stars and the new moon shone brilliantly. They were a welcoming sight, a familiar thing in an unfamiliar place. She could see the lights shining in the windows of farmers and villagers the lived there about and she envied them their simple lives. So absorbed was she in watching the night, she didn’t here him approach, but then she probably still would not have heard him if she had been watching for him.

“Are you alright milady?”

Doroarok sounded genuinely concerned as he came to stand beside her. She took a deep breath and let it go. She had to trust someone in the place, and it might as well be him.

 

[Dante45]

"My Lady," he said, "You will catch your death up here without a coat!" He pulled his heavy leather coat off and draped it over Rebecca's shoulders.

"I saw you leave your rooms, and followed. If I had seen you were not dressed fro this excursion, I would have stopped you and reminded you of the cold." With this he began to step back into the shadows, "I will be here if you need me, My Lady."

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Rebecca looked to where Doroarok had vanished into the shadows and pulled the coat tightly about herself. She looked out up on the world below and wondered how diferant it would be to the life she had known. As her thoughts drifted, she found her mind on another subject, the subject of her husband to be. No one could deny he was a handsome man, probably the most handsome of any she had ever met, and he surely was a man of means. His people were well fed, and his lands well tended to, his house was in good order and his men showed him the proper respect, so why did she have this nagging feeling that all was not well? She though of his hands. He had splendid hands and she wondered what it would feel like to have those hands caressing her body, touching and discovering her most secret places. The thought gave her a warm feeling between her thighs and she longed to be touched. If she was to be wed on the morrow then she still had this night that was hers. If she was quick to return to her chambers she could still have a night of pleasure with Amy. Amy had always pleasured her so well. In the back of her mind she heard him whisper ‘NO’

“Doroarok.”

She removed the coat and handed it back to him.

“Thank you for your kindness, I will be returning to my chambers now. I am sure I will find ample warmth there.”

She turned from him and headed for the door that would lead her back to her chambers. She didn’t have to hear his foot fall to know he was but a few paces behind her.

 

[Dante45]

Rebecca stretched luxuriously upon the gigantic bed. Amy stirred beside her. Feeling her servants movement next to her she smiled to herself, remembering the night. She had enjoyed the young girl last night for two reasons, firstly, Amy was a very attentive lover, and she had rebelled, in her own novel way, against his intrusions into her thoughts.

She rose up on an elbow and looked about the room, the sun shone brightly for the first time since she had arrived. The boy was asleep in his bed. She started, someone was standing by the door! As the sleep rolled away from her she recognized the man, Doroarok.

"What are doing in here!" She demanded, pulling her blanket closer around her.

"My Lady, dress quickly, awaken your lady and boy servants, it is almost time." He seemed nervous, or was it frightened. No. He was actually worried, and he was worried for her.

"How much time do we have." She asked.

"Not much My Lady, the hosts have arrived and all are waiting in the Great Hall. The Master requested I come and bring you now."

She turned to Amy and woke her. "Quickly girl, we must get prepared, wake Terran." Amy awoke with a smile and then understanding came to her, she jumped from the bed, her nudity forgotten as she woke the boy and they began to hustle about the room. Doroarok, turned and stepped out of the door. Rebecca slipped from the bed, angry that she had slept so long into the morning and allowed that man to send for her, and she unprepared. As she started for the bath room she felt a small touch all over her body, looked down and found she was dressed a flowing gown, she hurried to the mirror against the wall. Her hair was up and dressed as if a whole day had been spent upon it. She heard the boy make a sound and turned to see he was dressed as a rich young man on his way to a royal party, and Amy was dressed in richer clothing than she herself had ever worn at her cousins court.

Doroarok stepped back into the room. "We must go. We must go now My Lady. Patience is not one of our Masters virtues, though He has many."

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Rebecca found herself being hurried along in front of Doroarok with Amy and Terran close behind. The reached the archway that led into the great and came to a halt, all a little short of breath. Rebecca gave Doroarok an uneasy look and he smile reassuringly at her.

Terren went first, walking at a slow and steady pace, Amy followed, keeping time with Tarren. Then it was Rebecca’s turn. She hesitated almost to the point of panic, but Doroarok’s look warned here there was no turning back. She took one step, and then another, finding herself standing beneath the great archway in full view of hundreds of this man’s most loyal followers. Her stomach threatened to betray her, her pride the only thing holding her wits together. She took the final step that brought her to her new husband’s side but she could not bring herself to look at him. He took her hand in his and the ceremony began.

The priest tied their hands with a silk cord, and pronounced them man and wife. King Mentaros lifted her veil and looked into her eyes before drawing her to him and hissing her softly on the lips. For some reason she had expected his lips to be hard, cold, unyielding, but she found them to be quite the opposite. They were soft, and warm, tender and wanting. She could smell his cologne, his scent, his breath, and her heart began to beat a little faster.

Standing before the onlookers the priest announced.

“I present to you the King and Queen of Dalemere.”

 

[Dante45]

The newly wed couple turned to face the gathered crowd. No applause or cheering, as one expected at the wedding of a king. In fact the gathered (dignitaries?) had all fallen to their knees and bowed low to the ground.

They moved down the long Hall, on the thick carpet that had been laid out for them. He had not said a word. They continued out of the Hall and into the main chamber of the castle, then proceeded out the main doors. At the foot of the tremendous stone steps stood A large black horse, at its side stood Velvet! Rebecca's beautiful white quilding. Her heart lept at this familiar friend. They moved down the steps and at the foot, he paused.

"I hope you like this singularly small gift from home." He said, motioning to Velvet. At that moment she felt that now familiar tingle over her body, she looked down and she was dressed for riding. When she turned to him he was once again in his black, cape swirling about him. "I thought you should see some of your kingdom. Let us mount."

He stepped with her to Velvet, but she jumped into the small saddle, avoiding his hand that had been offered to help. He stepped to his horse, who amazingly pushed one foreleg before it and tucked the other behind, bowing to allow his rider easier access. He literally stepped to the horses saddle. The horse rose up and the started for the castle gate.

She noticed that behind them rode Doroarok, Amy and young Terran. And beyond them, a small group of soldiers. All silent and vigil.

As they road along the road from the castle, people would stop whatever they were doing and bow down to the ground. Soon they had left the castle behind and were riding in some of the most beautiful country Rebecca had ever seen, and still not a word further had been uttered.

The forest surronding them was breathtaking. Giant trees, some more than 60 feet about the trunk and rising, no towering into the sky! The smell of freshness, of open air surronded them. The sounds of a thosands small birds and a myriad of animals enclosed them. After about an hour of riding through the prestine forest, they came upon a small clearing with a few small homes scattered about. They were made of wood and thatch, quaint, sturdy and very well kept. They stopped and the Master of the land stepped from his horse. "A rest stop." He spoke to Rebecca. As she climbed from Velvet, a young child of no more than five or six years came running from one of the houses, he was running to them as if in greeting. One could tell he was intriqued by the horses. From the house followed a young woman and man, both with fear written across their faces, but determined to catch and/or protect the child. The child ran directly toward Rebecca.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

Scooping the child up into her arms, she spun him around in the air, his little face lit up with a brilliant smile and he squeeled with delight. Setting him on her hip she took around to Velvet’s head and patted the hourse’s nose.

“This is Velvet. He’s a very special friend of mine. I have had since he was borne. I think he likes you.” The child goggled as he petted the horse’s warm nose. Looking to the child’s mother, who was obviously heavy with child, she gave her a reassuring smile. She could tell these people were not comfortable in the presence of their king, so she did what she could to calm their fears. Handing the boy back to his father, he wiggled free and ran off towards the trees, plucking a wild flower and returning it to Rebecca. She accepted the little gift, kissing her finger and placing it on the end of his little button nose.

“Well thank you kind sir. I would have to say this is by far the most precious gift I have ever been given.” She tucked the flower into her hair and the child ran off laughing, happy with the smile he had brought to Rebecca’s face. Looking at the child’s mother, she wished she had something she could offer them as a gift for the new babe. Feeling something in her hand, she opened it to find a gold coin. Her eyes met King Mentaros’s for a moment as she mentally thanked him.

Taking the woman’s hand, she pressed the coin into her palm and closed her fingers around it.

“You should rest dear Lady.” And with that she turned back to her horse and her new husband.

 

[Dante45]

"You have a big heart, My Lady." The King said. Doroarok came forward and took their horses, leading them to a trough where water was retrieved from a quaint well. As the horses were being tended too, her new husband offered his arm to her. She took it, he anger somewhat subsided with the beauty around her and the encounter with child. He led her a short distance into the forrest.

"They are afraid of me, the people here. As with most of our people." She noted that he had encluded the 'our' when he spoke of the people of the land now. "I need to tell you a few things, to explain. We are no longer in the land of your cousin, in fact we are no longer within reach of anyone you have ever known."

"We are no more than a days hard ride from my home, sir." She replied.

"Oh, we are much more than that My Lady. Without me you could never return to anything remotely like you remember. This place is my place of rest. You can ride for years in any direction, and you will never leave our lands. I know Lady that you still harbor a desire to escape. There is no escape." He said these things without looking at her. She did not reply. They walked the perimeter of the small settlement, smelling the cooking smells of small houses. He seemed to be enjoying the sounds and smells as much as she.

Without warning he turned her back to the horses. "You must return to the castle now." He led her back to her horse, and this time she turned to him, allowing him to help her upon Velvet, though she needed no help. He didn't offer his hand, instead he placed his hands on her small midrif and lifted your gently into the saddle. "I will return to you tonight. Your girl and boy will be moved to the rooms next to ours." Her eyes opened wider thinking, our room.... "I will see you at dusk. Until tonight My Wife." Immediately Velvet turned without urging from her, something the obedient horse had never done, and started back toward the roads they had entered by, followed by the full entorage. Soldiers and all. My Wife, she thought. She turned to see if he was leaving, but he was standing watching them go, and for some reason for the first time she saw, or felt, a deep painful lonliness and new it was coming from this man, her husband.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

She wondered what business her would have that would leave him alone in the small village without so much as a guard. Though some how she doubted his need for a guard, it still seemed odd. Feeling the need for some fun, she dug her heels into Velvet’s flanks and took off at a gallop, leaving the rest of her startled escort to catch up. She entered the castle grounds laughing at the fun and excitement of the race she had just easily won, Doroarok pulling his mount up beside her, giving her an angry look.

“Milady, what has come over you, that you would do such a reckless and dangerous thing. If you had fallen and been hurt the rest of us would have forfeited our lives for your carelessness. For you I would gladly give my last breath, but I would prefer it to be for something a little more becoming then a race.”

She looked at him a little stunned, and ashamed. She hadn’t thought that her actions of fun would cause them so much grief. All of a sudden he dropped to the ground, prostrate in front of her horse, begging her forgiveness for speaking to her in that manner. She stepped down out of her saddle and kneeled down beside him.

“Doroarok, get up and look at me, I’ll not talk to the back of your head.” His eyes were filled with tears as he did as she asked.
“Doroarok, look me in the eyes, I would ask that you always look me in the eye, and never fall before me again. You are not beneath me and I’ll not have you acting as though you were. It is I who owe you and apology. I gave no thought to you and the others members of my escort. I was behaving like a spoiled child, not like a queen.” She sighed heavily, looking at him with kindness and understanding.
“Be patient with me dear Doroarok, this is all so new, and happing so fast. Be not my servant but my friend, take my hand when I trip in my duty and guide my on the right path, teach me what I need to know to be a good queen to your people and I will be forever beholding to you”

She got to her feet and reached for his hand, he hesitated, then accepted. They would be friends, and he would take pleasure in helping her where he could.

 

[Dante45]

As she turned she noticed for the first time that all the people about her, including Amy and Terran, were down upon the ground. This was not much to her liking, she hurried up the steps and into the castle, followed quickly by Doroarok and the a few of soldier, she presumed guards. As she stepped into the castles tremendous doorway a small group of people, who had been coming out, fell down before her. She started to hurry pass but a voice from an older gentleman in front of the goup stopped her.

"My Lady" The man said quietly, "I must speak with you."

"Yes." She answered, "What is it?"

The man stood, it took Rebecca a moment to place him, he looked so different. It was the emissary who had brought her from her home. He looked positively joyful compared to the evil little wretch she remembered. His hair was now full and vibrant, rather than stuck to his old head, he was dressed well, but with taste.

"The change is upon us tonight, and now that you are the Lady of Castle we wanted to know if their were any special preperations you wished...." He broke off with a question in his face, looking over her shoulder. She turned quickly, and caught Doroarok shaking his head at the old one.

"She hasn't been told yet. The Master says he will speak with her tonight." He cast his eyes down.

"Forgive me." The old man said somewhat sadly she thought. "I will bother you no more My Lady." He bowed and started to turn away.

"Wait." Rebecca said, "What are you two hiding? And who are you anyway?" This last to the old emissary.

"I am Grimbly, my Queen. I serve as your Castle Man. I take care of all things for you and the Master when dealing with the Castle or grounds or servants."

She turned to Doroarok, "What are you hiding?"

"I am sorry, it is the Master's orders My Lady. You must wait until such a time as He will tell you." Her new friend despised saying this, she could see it in his face, but he was loyal to his King.

Evidently something was going to happen overnight, the 'change' he had said and they wanted the Queen to decide if anything special should be done with Castle or the grounds.... She would have to either wait and see or be told. She left them standing without another word, turned and beckoned to Amy and Terran, and started up the stairs toward her old rooms.

Doroarok, following closely behind, stopped her as she started to turn at the to of the stairs to her left, to her rooms. "To the right now My Lady, your room... The Masters rooms are to the right." She turned, nothing but discoveries for two days! Every step something new, every action a mystery.

In the forrest they had left almost an hour before the figure of the King was still motionless, watching the road she had used to return to their castle. Their castle. He had not moved. The people of the little town had been watching him discreetly from their windows. Suddenly his cape began to flow and twirl in the stillness of the forrest blown by an unseen wind. A shadow seemed to pass over him and as if grains of sand had been held in the shape of his form he simply dissapeared in the wind. The large black horse, reins upon the saddle, turned alone and started back to the castle.

 

[Moonlight_33]

Rebecca

If Rebecca had begun to relax before this moment, it was gone now. Something was happening, and it involved her. She hated not knowing things once she became curious, but she could feel the danger in her curious mind.

Doroarok opened the door to the chambers she was to share with her new husband Eric. It seemed funny thinking of him as that name, a personal name, but some how it made him feel more simplified, more real, more like just a man and not so much of a king. She found it a nice thought, to think of him as being just a man, not this dark cloaked figure that walked in shadows and kept even more shadowy secrets.

The room was immense. Almost double the size of the previous rooms she occupied, and ten times more elegant. She thought for a moment that perhaps this room would hold some clues of what was to come. The canopy bed was enormous, clad completely in while silk and gold cord. The bathroom was far more ornate than the other one, with I bigger tub and the water flowing from the open mouth of a golden fish. The robe was filled to capacity with all the gowns that had been in the other room, and more. There was a third chamber, and this was the one that attracted her attention the most. It was a study. Filled with books and charts, scrolls and papers. In the center was a large desk, carved from what looked to be a single piece of timber. It was a breath taking work of art in it’s self, but for now, she was more interested that what the small draws contained. She went through every one, finding only blank parchment, and inks, writing utensils, and wax. Nothing that had been used. She began to wonder if he had ever used this room or if her had established it just for her. She suspected the latter was more the case.

With a heavy sigh of disappointment, she headed back to the bathroom, stripping and easing her weary body into the heated spring water. A gold tray laden with an assortment of fragrant oils sat on one side of the tub. She reached for one and uncorked it. Breathing in was like taking a deep breath of home; the lavender oil was the very thing she needed to help her relax. Adding a few drops to the water, she sank back and closed her eyes, letting her mind and body rest for just a while.

Running her hands down over her body, she massaged the muscles in the thighs that ached a little from the ride, her fingers brushing lightly over the delicate fur that covered her still intact womanhood. She spread her legs a little, slipping her hand between them, parting her tender folds and seeking the hard little pearl that gave her so much pleasure. Slowly she stroked it, feeling that worm glow that came with her arousal.

She sighed heavily again, taking her hand away from her pleasure point. She was married now and her pleasure should be his. At least on the wedding day. She would wait. Climbing from the tub, she reached for a towel, delighting in finding it thick, soft and lavender scented. He seemed to have anticipated her every need, her every desire. And yet there was something missing, something very important. She still had no idea what was going on, but she intended to find out.

At home the best place to find anything out was by listening to the servants, and the best gossip of the lot was to be found in the kitchens. Slipping into a gown, and soft slippers, she opened the door to find Doroarak standing there waiting for her. Once again her actions had been anticipated.

“Milday, would you like to see the gardens?”

Frowning, she said she would. Perhaps he would tell her a little more while they walked, if not, she would seek out Grimley and make the little weasel talk somehow. She had to know. She just had to.