by Beth Mikell
****
Dawn was minutes away. Light streaked through the window of the small house. Floating without care, Darrius and Brenna were replete in each other. He cradled her in his arms, next to the rhythmic beat of his heart.
“Are you awake?” Brenna asked.
“Aye, little dove. I have been awake for hours.”
She rose up on an elbow and looked into his bearded face. “You seem so thoughtful. Will you go after Gunther?”
Darrius sighed, fitting his arm under his neck. He explained his next move. “Gunther made a cowardly escape and it is highly unlikely he would travel back to Dorling. That is too far. Since we are so close to Carthmore Keep and he is in league with your father, my instincts lead me to believe he ran there. I will take the Imperial Elite and track him, then finish it.” He smoothed his other hand down her cheek. “I want you to stay here with Simon.”
Brenna sat up, her anger flashing across her face. “Oh really, warrior? Is that a fact?”
He watched her quietly, almost as if he seemed unaffected by her sarcasm. “I spent too long searching for heaven. I am not about to lose it without complete care,” he said gently. “You will stay here with Simon and I will come back for you. I promise.”
She huffed a tight breath, her heart thundering. “We went through what it was like to be separated and I will not go through that again,” she began, sensing his objection as his jaw ticked. Still, she continued, “Except for my father, I know Carthmore lands better than anyone. I will come with you and wait with Simon beyond the keep. You cannot honestly expect me to sit here worrying about you?” She shook her head. “Nay, I refuse.”
Darrius sat up, grasping her by the shoulders, looking deeply into her eyes. “God granted me with a beautiful siren, but as rebellious as a storm.” He gave her a little shake. “You know exactly how to grab my attention and not make it easy to resist you.”
Brenna smiled, reaching up the wrap her hands around his neck, her naked breasts brushing his chest teasingly. “So, is that a yes?”
He gave a small nod, leaning forward to kiss the tip of her nose. “It is a yes with conditions.”
She lifted an eyebrow. “Such as?”
“Such as… stay out of sight, stay out of trouble, and stay with Simon.”
“I accept.”
Darrius looked skeptical, yet he chuckled. “Are you sure, little dove? You gave in so easily.”
“Surely you do not suppose I seduce trouble?”
He blew out a hard breath. “Honestly, I believe you project beauty which others tend to crave. It is not you that I fear, Brenna, it is the unknown dangers around you. I cannot risk losing you. I just cannot,” he explained with serious meaning, his face darkening.
Her heart softened at his words. “I promise, by my heart, Darrius. I will take care,” she said, hoping to reassure him.
Finally, he accepted. “We will leave within the hour. I will go find some food and water for you.” He made to move off the bed, but Brenna reached out a hand, caressing his arm.
Humor lit her green eyes. “You will be my handmaiden?” she asked saucily.
Darrius laughed. A true, deep, unguarded laugh. “Oh, you are definitely a cheeky wench to be sure!”
“Wench, eh?” she replied, reaching out to tickle his ribs, making him laugh even more.
“Please, no,” he said, trying to capture her wrists, but she was quicker.
“Take it back, warrior, otherwise I will show you my rebellious side.” She teased him, her fingers slipping easily into his ribs.
Darrius chuckled, grabbing her wrists and rolled her over. “You mean you have more rebellion? Please, please show me,” he whispered against her lips, his thick shaft rubbing against her leg. “Your rebellion, my lady… excites me.”
“Well, this is a first to be sure.” Brenna laughed softly, pulling her hands free, and she grabbed his arousal with a sweet caress. “How soon do we have to leave?” she asked with mock innocence, running her hand from base to tip. “I have plenty to show you.”
He hissed with pleasure and rocked against her touch. “Mmmm, no rush. I am at your service.”
Her eyes glittered with sensual suggestion and she ran her tongue over his bottom lip. “Then service me, warrior.”
And he did.
****
“Within the hour” turned into three hours between kisses, breakfast, and washing. Brenna came out of the small house, more revived, and more alive than she ever could have imagined. Her eyes landed on Darrius, standing with his knights by the horses. He met her gaze with a hint of a smile before turning back to his task.
Simon stood off from the group at the edge of the village. Frowning, Brenna walked to him and came to stand an arm’s length away. He was in full Imperial Elite armor, and his insignia glinted in the sunlight with his rank on his left arm. His blond hair fell to his shoulders. The knight boasted height much like his lord, though not in muscle. His youthful age was still evident in his withdrawn face.
He straightened at her approach. “My lady,” he said rather somberly.
She took note of his melancholy. “It seems Darrius will allow me to go with you today, but perhaps you will miss some of the action—to hide me.”
Simon inclined head, his eyes bleak. “There is no higher honor, my lady.”
Brenna turned away and looked out across the expanse of lush green land. The sunlight blazed through the trees, and the sky blue and perfect. “There is a change in you, Simon. May I ask what is troubling you?”
“I am very well, my lady. No need to worry yourself.” He looked over at Darrius the rest of the men.
She smiled, following his eyes. “Have a care, Simon the Clever. They cannot hear us. Please tell your lady what has taken your amiable spirit.”
After a few moments, Simon said, “Colin.”
She nodded her head with understanding. Though Darrius did not speak of Colin again, Brenna knew he was deeply affected by the loss of his friend, brother, and knight. It was a grievous hole left within the Imperial Elite to lose both Ian and Colin in the same day. The retinue of knights lived and breathed danger, battle, and intrigue like water. To lose a part of their brotherhood was like cutting off a limb. Irreplaceable.
Before Brenna could ask more, Simon rushed his next words, “He was my teacher. No…” he said with a slight pause. “He was more than that. He was my friend.” He shied away.
“Simon, it is all right to miss him.”
The knight inclined his head. “Colin found me when I was fourteen, stealing bread in a market. I had no family and thievery was the way I survived. Instead of treating me as a criminal, he put me to work. He made me his squire.” He offered a sad smile, his hazel eyes lost in memory.
“I had someone that believed in me for the first time. Colin saw me beyond a common thief. He taught me fighting skills, and how to ride a horse. When I was old enough, he asked Darrius to consider me as a knight,” he told her, a real smile touching his lips, though it faded as easily. “I do not fault Darrius’s decision to exile Colin, I just…” he trailed off.
“You miss him,” Brenna finished for him.
Simon nodded. “It is not like I can discuss this with His Majesty’s Elite over there.” He threw a brief glance at his fellow knights.
She gave him a genuine smile. “Ah, but you have something they do not have.” She threaded her arm through his, walking back toward the horses at a gentle pace. Her long gown trailed over the uneven ground.
“What is that, my lady?”
“My devoted friendship—and do not even think of objecting. We all need friends, Simon.”
They stopped a few feet away from Darrius, the Imperial Elite, and the horses.
“Thank you, my lady. It is your kindness,” Simon whispered, dropping Brenna’s hand with a slight bow, and he turned away.
Darrius held out his hand to her, drawing her close, kissing her forehead affectionately. “How is he, little dove?”
Brenna gave him
a look of wide-eyed astonishment. “How did you know?”
Darrius shrugged. “Colin practically raised Simon into a man and I know it is hard for him the most, though he will not speak of it. I am happy he found comfort in your words, little dove. He seemed… happier.”
She smiled, not saying more on the topic. “Are we going, warrior?”
Darrius led her over to her horse. “After you, my lady.” He helped her mount up before vaulting onto his own horse. “Let’s go!”
Chapter 14
Carthmore Keep lie one hour east of the small village and Darrius, Brenna, and the Imperial Elite left with a mission and purpose. Lush, thick forest surrounded the vast, well defended keep with many vassal homes nearby, working the land for Sir William. His character and demeanor kept him in constant contempt with his people as the cruel overlord.
The top of the keep could be seen in the distance. All the riders in their small group drew up behind Darrius as he reined in his horse. Then, he dismounted. He took off his metal gauntlets, storing them in a side pouch on his saddle before assisting Brenna off her horse. A smile touched his lips as she slid over his body, reminding him of how she felt over his skin hours earlier. A familiar ache settled in his heart.
Darrius led Brenna some distance away from his men under a large tree. He turned her to face him, taking both her hands in his. He felt a tremor ripple through her.
He looked deep into her eyes, sensing her trepidation. He wanted to give her comfort. “Little dove,” he said, watching her intently. “I will come back for you, I promise. Simon will be here and I trust him implicitly. He has an amazing ability to hide.” He gave an easy smile, yet it did not cover his own apprehension he felt at leaving her behind.
She tried to laugh but failed miserably. Tears stung her eyes, slipping down. “What is wrong with me?” She wiped the wetness away with the back of her hand. “I am not usually this weak.”
Darrius cupped her face, brushing away the remaining silver drops. “Shh, that is not true. You are the strongest woman I know. I am proud of you, Brenna,” he rasped. “I cannot allow you to go to Carthmore, especially if Gunther is present. He is stupid enough to be highly dangerous. But, I will finish it today.” He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her body up against his. “Then you and I will marry and begin our life. You have my word. Truly, you are my wife in all ways that matter.” He took her hand and placed it over his heart. “Especially here.”
Despite another tear escaping down her cheek, Brenna smiled. “I love you, Darrius.”
He lowered his mouth to hers, brushing his lips with aching tenderness. Warm love swept through them, mingling with goodbye. Forever would never be enough to satisfy their thirsty souls.
Darrius breathed in Brenna’s lavender scented skin, branding his senses with her taste and essence. The warmth of his tongue slipped easily over hers, returning sweetness for sweetness.
He pulled back from her, hating the thought of leaving, memorizing her beautiful face. She would be his beacon home on the dark path he was about to face. He was captivated by the passionate glow of her cheeks, and the swollen delight of her lips. His emptiness was exchanged for her sweet fire. She invited life forever. He felt his impatience to return to her, so deeply it was an effort to control.
Brenna opened her eyes. “I am waiting for you,” she breathed.
Darrius smiled. “I know, little dove. That is what makes me anxious to return.” He stepped back, lifting her hand to his lips, placing a tender kiss upon her skin. “Remember how much I love you,” he said gently.
She could only nod, tears trailing.
Simon appeared at his lord’s side “My lord, my lady.”
Darrius turned away from her, giving Simon’s shoulder a firm pat. He looked into the eyes of his young knight with a nod, and then he walked away. He made his way back to his horse. Replacing his gauntlets, Darrius mounted up easily, and he gave Brenna one last glance before he rode away with his Imperial Elite.
****
Wiping her eyes, Brenna watched Darrius’s departure, praying earnestly for her love’s safe return. Loneliness and the fear of the unknown became her worst enemy.
After Simon secured their horses, Brenna walked through the woods and sat down on a fallen log. He followed, leaning up against a nearby tree. His eyes searched the area.
Finally, he said, “Are you cold, my lady? Shall I make a fire?”
She shook her head, looking away. “Nay, perhaps later.”
He persisted. “The Elite are happy you will marry.”
Her eyes widened as she looked at him. She smiled warmly. “Is there a reason?”
Simon shrugged with a laugh. “Your presence has a calming effect on him, my lady. We will all benefit from a happier lord.”
Brenna returned his laugh softly. “Ah, so it is your own benefit that speaks so highly of our union?” she asked with a taunting flair.
He paled and straightened from the tree. “My apologies, my lady. I meant no offense.”
“Relax, Simon. I am relieved Darrius’s men are in agreement with our match. It would be hard for everyone if he married a shrew—myself included,” she teased, though she was happy as he visibly relaxed at her words.
Simon bent down, resting his back against the tree. “Indeed, my lady. You are the best choice for our lord.”
Brenna glanced around the woods, thoughtful. “Perhaps it is not only Darrius that will benefit or his Elite. But I as well. It is amazing how life can be filled with hardships one day, only to bring… an amazing change never imagined the next. I know I am thankful.”
“It is a refreshing—” Simon began only to stop, cocking his head to the side. Shooting to his feet, he drew his sword in one swift motion, looking toward another direction.
Alarmed, Brenna stood, drawing her mantle about herself protectively. “What is it?”
“Horses.”
“Can Darrius have returned so soon?” she asked anxiously. Perhaps her father was not home.
Simon shook his head. “No, the horses are coming from the other direction. My lady, please stay here. I will investigate.”
Simon sprinted through the trees quickly, disappearing from Brenna’s sight. Nervousness settled hard over her as she waited for his return. A measure of fear made her a prisoner of her thoughts instead of her normal strength. With Darrius in the other direction, her sanity was stretched beyond comprehension.
In the distance, Simon ran through the forest toward her, stopping a few feet away. “It is a royal sentry, my lady. That can only mean one of two things: a messenger or…” he announced, not the least bit winded by his short burst through the trees.
Disbelief rounded Brenna’s green eyes. “The king.”
“Aye, possibly.”
Her eyebrows furrowed. “Isn’t that too coincidental?”
Simon remained thoughtful as he watched her, shaking his head. “I really have no idea. It is quite shocking to say the least.”
Brenna bit her lip for a moment, her mind racing. “Simon, can you stop them?”
The young knight blanched. “I am sure I can, my lady, but why would I want to?”
Her lips curved into a slow smile. “Because I have an idea. We have an opportunity to change everything.”
A worried expression replaced his pallor. “I don’t know, my lady,” he said, hesitating. “Lord Darrius was clear about what my orders were to be. He will have my head if I do anything that may cause you harm.”
She looked at him with confidence, lifting her chin with determination. “Do not worry, Simon. If the king is headed this way, we will speak with him. What harm is there in that?”
He looked green. “Only my head on a stick if I louse up. But no matter, right?” he asked with a wry twist of his mouth.
Brenna’s eyes flashed serenely. “Have faith in your lady, Simon.”
Tilting his head to the side, he blew out his breath. “I may regret this later, but all right. Follow me.” He s
tepped ahead of her to lead the way.
She stopped and he paused to face her with a curious look. “How will you stop them?”
Confidence radiated from his smile, his boyish good looks softening all the worry from his face. “I wear the insignia of the Imperial Elite.” He pointed to the emblem on his left arm. “My rank should be good for something,” he explained with a tinge of hopeful arrogance.
****
Two riders approached, reducing their speed as Simon stood in their path with Brenna a little behind him.
The sentries halted a few feet away.
“Why have you stopped us?” said one of the men.
“I am Simon the Clever, in service to His Majesty, King Henry. This is Lady Brenna of Carthmore,” he announced, turning to respectfully introduce her. “Carthmore Keep lies behind me as you may see. Is the king behind you?”
The man hesitated, looking at his companion and the other man nodded with permission. “Yes, he directly comes. The king is returning from the north. We were just scouting the route for possible threats, as you may be aware of protocol.”
Simon nodded. “Lady Brenna would like to have an audience with His Majesty. I would respectfully request that you ride back and give notice.”
The man stiffened. “As you may also be aware Simon the Clever, the king is not in the habit of stopping to speak with his subjects for reasons of security. He—” he began, but his companion interrupted him.
“Go inform His Majesty, Matthew,” commanded the other sentry.
Matthew inclined his head and turned his horse back in the direction he came. The other sentry dismounted and stood before Simon and Brenna.
“I am Sir Douglas,” he informed them, turning to Brenna with a slight bow. “My lady.”
Brenna gave a small curtsy with an incline of her head. “Sir Douglas, we were very surprised to see you so close to Carthmore.”
He smiled. “Yes, the king is overseeing the reconstruction of one of his border keeps and we are just returning,” he replied, turning his head at the sound of thundering horses approaching. He stepped back from them as the king’s entourage drew upon them, halting.
