Young Writers Society

William Franco | Medieval Times | Sir William of Franco

It was a long day with Olivander. We were standing outside as the snow started to fall from the sky. Not another winter. I shook off the snow like a dog and stood straight again, looking over the dam.

"William, what do you believe would happen if a lady came and asked for your hand?" Olivander joked.

I gave him a raised eyebrow and stiffled a laugh. A woman came running out. She was a beauty. Olivander was new to this kingdom, so he hasn't had the chance to meet everyone. I haven't met this lady either. She was new as well. When you looked at her, all you thought was, what a beautiful maiden.

She spoke to Olivander for a moment, then they both left. I stood there. He shouldn't be going off alone, should he? I walked inside the castle and tried to find the way they went. All I got was lost. A young woman was walking my way, and then I recognized her.

Harley.

"What is it, Sir William?" Harley asked.

Her beautiful blue eyes met mine. Ever since I'd seen her that first day, I couldn't stop thinking about her. It was a sin to think of a woman that way. I heard she was younger than I.

"What is happening with the Queen?" I asked.

She took a moment before she replied. "Queen Avelyn is alright. She will deliver soon." her talking was short and stiff.

I wanted to hold her hand, but I could not.

"That is very well." I sighed. "Thank you for speaking with me."

Her eyes didn't met mine in the moment we spoke. Once the conversation faded, she started to walk around me. I took a hold of her hand out of instinct. Right then, my face started to heat up. I ran my fingers between hers and she didn't let go. I turned my head and saw her back, just standing there. A second later she walked up to me, letting out hands go.

"Do not do that Sir William. That is not allowed." her voice jumped as her eyes looked at everything but mine.

"Miss Harley, I respect you dearly. But I must tell you that I love you." I let my thoughts come out.

Her cheeks got red as she let her eyes meet mine. I licked my bottom lip and stared back, unable to handle my temptations.

"Sir William, I am to leave." she looked away and walked around me, leaving me frozen in my spot.

Oliver Dylan Hemingway | Medieval Times | Sir Olivander Hemingway

A beautiful woman, she is called Kristin. She asked me to help a young servant to a guest room. I did my duty. I wanted to impress this woman. She left me hopeful and made my heart race.

I did what I usually did, I went back to the servant room to go and eat. I expected Sir William to be there. As I walked down some stairs, I felt a hand touch my arm. I turned my head and saw Kristin. I caught my breath.

"Olivander... thank you." she said, her voice making my ears dance.

"There is no problem." I smiled.

She paused for a moment and then pulled me down the stairs, leading me down some corridors and into a room. It was a dark room and I am sure I have never seen it before. The first thing that I had to do once I became a knight was to look over the castle, and yet.

Her hands ran over my body which made me shake.

"Madame Kristin, what art thou doing?" I asked, I heard the tension in my voice.

I felt her hands freeze just on my ribs as I looked at her. The evil lust was in them, and I couldn't help resist it because I felt it as well.

"We should not engage in such profanity. For I am a knight, and you are a lady in Queen Avelyn's castle." I said.

"I want you, Olivander." that's all she had to say.

Our lips met and things escalated. It felt exciting and terrifying all at the same time. All I knew is that this was illegal, according to our kingdom. But feeling her against me felt perfect.

Before we could get far, I heard William. He was talking to some woman. It must have been Madame Harley. He was in love with her. I pulled away from Kristin.

"What is..." I cut her off by covering her mouth with my hand. I pointed at the door and she strained to listen. Then she nodded in understanding. That's when we realized, we couldn't do this. She pulled up her dress and fixed her hair as I straightened myself up. Once I knew the he had left, I opened the door and let us out.

"Thank you for this, Olivander." she smiled, her teeth a grand white.

I took her hand in mine and squeezed. Her cheeks got red and I motioned her to walk off first. She did.

***

"Olivander, who was that lady?" William asked me at the table.

He had a turkey leg in one hand and had the other one flat on the wooden table. I had one as well as we spoke.

"She is called Lady Kristin. She is for thou a guest of Queen Avelyn's." I explained.

He gave me a nod and started to chew on his turkey leg.

"How did the meeting with Madame Harley go?" I asked.

Something ran across his eyes that made them glossy and he put the turkey leg back on the plate. A sigh escaped from his mouth.

"I held her hand... I should not have done that." his voice broke.

"Oh, William. It will be well." I tried.

Jasmine Bradley Urbaniak | Medieval Times | Princess Jacqueline of Urbaniak



Her castle was mystical. It reminded me of mine back in Poland. I sighed just as I walked in, a knight leading me to Queen Avelyn. Her had amazing blue eyes and called himself Sir William. He knew of me right when I sprung in.

Once we got to her room, he left me. I walked into the room and saw Avelyn lying on her bed, eyes shut.

"Queen Avelyn," I said.

Her eyes fluttered open and she smiled once she saw me. I let myself sit on her bed and help her sit up.

"Oh, Princess. When did you cometh?" Her voice was breathless. "Thou art here to see the labor?"

"Yes, Avelyn. I will stay until the baby comes."

Her smile grew wider. I pulled her into a soft hug and we got rudely interrupted by doors opening with a slam. I jumped up and looked at the doors, seeing a dashing man stand just in front of us.

"Hello Queen Avelyn." his said with a confident voice which made me shake.

"Duke, it is a good day..." she sighed.

The Duke bowed to her then turned his head toward me, just noticing my existence. Chills went down my spine as his eyes looked me over.

"Who is this fair maiden?" His eyes were looking at me, making me feeling bare.

"I am Princess Jacqueline of Urbaniak." I said, my voice straight, unable to meet his amazing blue eyes. "I come from Poland."

A smirk lines his face as he bows. I feel flushed, but smile back at him when he stands back up straight. Looking at Avelyn, his gives her a small wave and begins to head back out the door. But before he leaves, he turns his head and looks directly at me. My breath caught in my throat.

"It's a pleasure to see you, Princess Jacqueline." and he's off.

I look at Avelyn and see the dreamy look in her eyes. Either she's still daydreaming about him or she's just that taken by his presence. I touch her shoulder and she's back.

Giggling, I said. "What is going through your mind, Avelyn?"

Her brows arch together as she looks at me for a moment. Did I say something wrong? Then a smile pushes at her cheeks.

"Oh, it is not a thing."

And yet, I know she is hiding something from me. We have been friends ever since we were born. I knew her like I knew my kingdom. There was something about her and that Duke that made me itch all over.

It shred jealousy through my heart. I could not admit this, but I had an eye for that handsome red head.

Ashton Von Baxter- Medieval Thing-  Duke Aschetel V

"Please just help me, no questions." I say as I lift yet another heavy case of either food, clothing, personal objects, or gold.

I would guess gold. For this trip I've collected a hefty amount of it. Peter looks down uncomfortably.

"Duke, I just feel that we sh-"

"Why do you feel such a strong need to tell the King that I will be leaving. It won't bother him in the slightest."

The knight nods to himself and then begins lifting the cases into the carriage.

"I just have a few things that I must check on, so you can continue that."

I walk away shaking my head in annoyance. I feel as if I couldn't get away any quicker. What no one knows is that the King is keeping the threat of several neighboring countries planning to attack, to himself. I've been gaining tidbits of information from other officials, and from Avelyn, but the threat is getting too close for my liking, and I now have to get her and my unborn child away.

"Oh! Duke! What a pleasant surprise! Merry meet." Duchess Kristin says, as she sees me.

I plaster on a smile.

"Why, hello. Yes, quite the pleasant surprise. How is Duke Madelyn?"

Duchess shrugs and looks down, the slightest bit of a blush painting her fair cheeks.

"I guess that you could say that it is...going well. I-i have to go and quickly check on my bed chamber. It was nice seeing you!" She says quickly curtsying and rushing off.

Why that was quite strange. But I can't let myself be distracted. I promised Avelyn, as we were leaving breakfast that I would check on her. I have yet to go back on a promise for her.

I know that at this time she will be free, because King Leo is off meeting with other palace officials to discuss the world affairs. He'll be there for a few hours, so i'll luckily have some time to spend with my queen.

I look back and forth, down the long brightly candle lit corridor, searching for palace guards but finding none. I sigh in relief and open the double door into my queens bed chambers.

"My-"

I cut off suddenly due to the young woman in the room beside Avelyn. Avelyn quickly sits up from her sitting position and her eyes widen, in both surprise and fear at having our covers blown. But I easily place a confident smile on my face and continue to the two.

"And who might this fair maiden be?" I ask formally, looking the beautiful woman in her eyes.

She quickly lowers her own green ones and smiles softly.

"I am Princess Jacqueline of Urbaniak." She looks back up at me. "I come from Poland."

I nod and bow, my smile now growing into a sarcastic one.

"I see. It has definitely been a pleasure to meet you, Princess Jacqueline. Queen Avelyn," I say, a bit more huskily than I meant for it to come out when I look into her dark green eyes. I clear my throat and try again. "Yes, I just wanted to say that...erm Kristin is here and was hoping that you could meet her soon. Down the corridor?"

She smiles at my save and nods.

"Make sure to tell Kristin that i'll be there soon, Duke. It was nice seeing you."

I nod and smile.

"Yes. It was nice seeing you too My Queen. And you, Princess." I nod once and exit.

------------------

"Oh my love it was nerve wracking! But what do I do now? She has said that she plans to stay until I labor. How can I leave under the watchful eye of her, the king, and the palace guard. It's too much." She trembles a bit, and pulls her her cape up to her mouth to stop the sob from escaping.

We are outside and the brisk cold has warranted the thick velvet cape that she is wearing. I take her into my arms and embrace her tightly.

"One more day my love. Do not worry. We shall leave at night, and they will never see us after that. All right?"

She trembles against me once more but softly nods her head. I smile down at her.

"Good. Now, have you collected all of your favorite garments?"

She smiles.

"Yes! I managed to have a more...unintelligent servant bring them down to the carriage area for me. They, and the rest of my important belongings, have been stored behind the hay area, where no one can see them. So we are all set, no?"

I nod with a smile and kiss her on her forehead.

"We definitely are. You did great. I'l take care of them now, and then everything will be prepared for us for tomorrow night. Does that sound good?"

She nods and kisses me gently before backing away.

"I am feeling unbelievably drowsy. I'm going back up to bed...I love you, Ash."

"I love you too, Ave."

---------------

As I heave the last case into the carriage I sigh. Finally all finished. Now I just have to-

"Who's there?" I hear someone call out from behind me.

I turn around quickly, my eyes wide in surprise.

Harley- Medieval Warp- Miss Harley Mae

"What is it, Sir William?" I asked, slightly nervous.

When we first met, I'd instantly craved his touch, which was not a way a lady should think.

He sent shivers down my body, made goose bumps rise, it was like he was trying drive me crazy.

"What is happening with the Queen?" He asked, as he stared at me, studied my face, my eyes.

I couldn't help but stare back at his magnificent face. "Queen Avelyn is alright..She will deliver soon."

He seemed tempted to do something, but just stood there."That is very well." He sighed. "Thank you for speaking with me."

I nodded, and went to walk around him. As I did so, I felt a hand slip into mine, his hand. He entwined his fingers with my fingers. I had no idea what to do. Or how to react.

A few seconds passed, which felt like minutes, and I turned to face him. His face was red. I pulled my hand out of his, and stared at him.

"Do not do that Sir William. That is not allowed." I managed to say, trying my best not to make eye contact.

"Miss Harley, I respect you dearly. But I must tell you that...I love you." He told me. I could feel his eyes on me, waiting for me to talk, to do anything.

Feeling my face heat up, I stopped avoiding his beautiful eyes, and stared up at him. I watched as he licked his bottom lip. It made my face slightly warmer.

"Sir William, I am to leave." I said to him, holding myself back from telling him that I loved him, as well.

It wouldn't do any good. Him and I? It would never be allowed.

I moved my eyes away from his, and walked around him.

As I walked into the room I was designing, along with a few of the servants, I sighed.

One of the younger ones, one slightly older than I, looked up from her work. "Miss Harley, might you be fine?"

Her fingers were laced in a baby blanket she was knitting. "I- yes, dear. I am in a fair mood."

She nodded, and looked back down at her lap. "Miss, why don't you go rest? You have worked the most out of all of us."

I smiled slightly, "That'd be a pleasure."

The servant's mouth curved into a sweet smile, and I turned around, and left the room.

It was then that I had realized how exhausted I was from staying up every night, working on that room.

I found my way to the room the Queen provided for me, and shut the door tightly behind me.

It was spacy. Beautiful.

I laid in the bed, and tried to sleep, but my stomach tingled. I hadn't eaten much today. The corset I wore hugged my torso tightly, which might've been another reason as to why it tingled.

Hurriedly, I slipped my shoes back on, and quickly walked out of the room.

******************

After getting a bit to eat, I walked slowly through the castle, trying to remember where my room was.

Everything was a bit blurry, as I felt my eyes trying to close. Tiredness was getting to me.

As I walked down the hall, I noticed Sir William. He didn't quite notice me, though.

At least I thought it was him.

I rubbed my eyes, and cleared my throat. "Sir William? ...Will?"

The person turned around. I was right. "Miss Harley. Why is thy out so late?"

"I...this corset is killing me." I said, tugging at my dress.

"Must you get it off?" He asked, tilting his head a bit.

The hall was dark. Empty. Except for us.

"William, Sir...I...I love you." I whispered, rubbing my eyes again.

There was silence, then, "H-Harley.."

"Could you escort me to my room?" I asked, trying to blink away the sleepiness.

He took my hand, and I shivered. I followed behind him, as he led me to my room.

Sir William of Franco

Harley had her fingers wrapped around mine, once again. It sent a shiver down my body. We got into her room and I wasn't sure of what to do. Her eyes were shutting from the lack of sleep.

"Are you tired, my fair lady?" I asked.

She shook her head, stepping a little closer toward me. It made my heart race. I was due to cover the Queen's room for the night because of some suspicion The King had. Of course, I believed it was nothing so I let Harley take me away. The King liked to make up stories in his own mind.

"Sir William," she sounded breathless as she licked her bottom lip.

I pulled her close, locking my lips around hers. It sent my mind flying. Her lips fit mine perfectly as we kissed. Pulling away, I saw something float in her eyes, maybe love? I ignored it, realizing what I was doing.

This should not be happening. I am not married to her. I do not even know her. But I want her, I love her. I have known her long enough to have a moment like this. I should just be sure.

"Are you happy to wed with me?" I asked.

Her eyes got wide as she thought for a moment. It was a very normal question to ask the person you love. She ran her hands through my hair, making me feel at ease.

"Oh Sir William, I do."

***

It was around dawn when I showed up at the Queen's room. I had slept in Harley's quarters until the right time. Everything was silent and when I looked inside her room, she was in there, asleep.

I heard a ruckus come from the floor below us. I know Olivander is down there on duty, so if anything is to happen, he will find it.

Sir Olivander of Hemingway

Something was going on just outside the castle. A carriage came up by the front. I walked out to see what was going on. A young man was lifting cases into the carriage. He looked familiar from the back.

"Who's there?" I asked.

The man froze, then turned his head. It was Duke Aschetel. His eyes got wide once he saw me. I stood tall and walked over to him, looking over the carriage. The horse at the front looked wide awake and ready to go.

"Where art thou going?" I asked.

"I am going back to my castle, if that is of no problem." he replied with a smirk.

There was something off with what he said. He was the Duke though, so I could not question him. Actually, I could, but I feel as though I should not. So, I just nod and walk up to him.

"Why art thou out so late? Shouldn't you get ready at dawn?" my voice was thick.

The Duke looked up at the dark sky than back at me, his red hair falling in his face. He should trim his fringe. Or whatever that top is called.

"I felt that I should go early today, my mother is ill." He explained.

"Oh?"

"Just a small cough."

I nodded, "Well,"

He slid his hands in his pockets and turned away from me, headed back inside the castle. I followed him, watching his go off somewhere. Something was off about him. Most definitely. As he disappeared into a corridor, I found myself go up the stairs and toward the King's suite. His door was slightly open, a light poured out of the door.

I pushed the door ajar and saw The King putting his clothes into a case, and his items in another. A drop of sweat was on his forehead as he kept on a stern face. I swallowed hard.

"King," I said.

He jumped, looking up at me. A small smile came across his face as he nodded at me.

"Do not frighten me! Come in, Olivander!" he said.

I walked into the room, feeling as if I belonged some way.

"What is it that you want?" he asked.

"Well, there is a problem with Duke Aschetel..." I started but he cut me off.

"What is this problem?" all of a sudden, he was very interested in what I had to say. He pulled away from the case and stood straight, giving me his full attention.

"He seems to be wandering off in the middle of the night."

The King thought for a moment, his eyebrows arching together. Then, he went back to putting his stuff into these cases. I stood still, waiting for a demand or and answer or... something.

"That does not bother me, Olivander. But thank you for speaking with me about it. I am going to the country at dawn, so tell Queen Avelyn I will be back at night."

Next time we do this we might have to try not to fall back into the same romantic patterns. I'd like to interact with some characters I usually don't interact with. I'll admit, I was missing Emmett/Jane, but let's shake things up a little more.

Lacey- medieval warp- Lisabeth


I knew the Queen had a lover.

Queen Avelyn is many things, but clever isn't really one of them. My Father was a glass blower in the town below, and he had taught us that every detail was important: it make Elyeam marvelous at his job, and me terrible at mine.

I'd noticed months ago, by the creases in the sheets when the King was not around. I could tell when the Queen's mood would hop from gloomy to happy for no reason, though she blamed it on the pregnancy mood swings. I could, when I tried, smell the scent of another man in the room. I did not know who it was. It seemed relatively harmlessly to me that I let it slip for weeks; until I heard Miss Harley rehearsing her story-telling abilities by reciting the tale of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. Ever since than, that duty to my King ate away at my mind, swallowed me into indecisiveness.

The Queen was entertaining that Princess when I left, but they have both disappeared by the time I bring her the tray of chocolate requested and the prenatal medicine Meric had chased me down to give to me.

I take it upon myself, out of nosiness more than anything, to sweep the floors of her chambers, picking things up and putting them away. The chocolates and medicine sit, warming on the table my her bedside. The room, however, feels empty. There is a dress, one of the most beautiful, on the bed, probably to show the other Princess. I go to her dresser to put it away, my eyes widening when I realize that there are garments missing; they are not all the prettiest, but her favorites that are missing.

"Lacy!" The Queen walks in behind me, using the name she gave to me due to the covers of my dresses. I shut her dresser quickly. "What are you doing here?"

"I delivered Meric's medicine and some chocolate, my Queen. I figured I should tidy up a tad whilst I was here." I am eager to change the subject. "Shall I help you out of that?"

The Queen sighs, nodding. "Yes."

I go over to her and begin the intricate process of getting off her gown. Usually the Queen is kind and we speak, but she is unusually quiet today.

Nervously, I play with the ends of her strings as I take them off. "Did you send your dresses to get cleaned, your majesty? I shall pick them up if needed. I noticed that your favorites our missing, and you shall need them with the cadre of guests pouring in as of late."

Her body stiffens under my hands. She does not speak, and my worry for my ruler flies through a wall breathing hot flames. "It is not your business, Lisabeth! If I ask you for them, that's when I need them." She pouts. "I can finish the rest by myself.

She goes behind her dressing shield and does the rest of the job herself. I wait, patiently. While I was undressing her, I could see once again the complete roundness of her stomach; and, not for the first time, I wonder whose child she is carrying.

"Is there anything else I can do for you, my Queen? I know it must be strenuous, all the things that are happening. If there's anything I can do to aid the upcoming travel..."

She comes out in only her night gown, and it is not her favorite one. My heart begins to beat fast, and I wish I could just come out and say it.

"Travel? What makes you think I'm traveling?" Her anger seethes through me.

"A whisper in the castle. A last chance to see your people before the birth has you bedridden. They believe you are a good Queen, but they also have to know you'll make a good mother. Were they wrong to believe in so?"

My answer does not convince myself, and I suddenly feel in under my head.

@Desticakes.

Emmett - Medieval Times- Elyeam of Lopez

Sometimes, I really wish I were a knight.

Those guys can get away with whatever they want. I'm under constant supervision and knights are all like 'I'm going to take this serving girl to a guest room' or 'hey, I'm going to go against the rules and take this woman into a closet to do whatever I wish'. Sometimes, I really hate them, which means I'm really rather jealous.

It took me awhile to find the girl's new room after delivering my rounds of medications, but I finally do. She is awake, looking less sickly than before, sewing something in her lap.

Embarrassed, I go to replace her medicine bottle with my new, full one. I don't have anything to say to her. She is familiar to me, and I don't know why, which has caused her to linger on in my mind.

"Hello." She has seen me! I lower my eyes when I look at her, as though she is royalty and not a simple serving girl. "I'm Elizabeth. You are Elyeam, the physician's helper, right?"

"Yes. I will be physician myself, someday, when Meric decides to leave." It seems as though my eloquence is lacking. "Are you feeling better?"

"Yes!" Her eyes brighten so much I feel as though I am looking into the sun. "Whatever you gave me has been very helpful. I have gone from my death bed to simply a resting one!"

I smile at her brightness, her enthusiasm. "I am glad. Is there anything else I can do?"

She gestures to a plate of food, piled high, more food than a servant would usually see. "The Duchess Kristin has been kind to me, but I cannot eat it all. Share in my gratitude, as thanks?"

She is very forward for a servant, and I almost decline of good manners until I see a piece steak, something I have not indulged in for ages.

"Perhaps. For a little while."

I pull up a chair and let her smile soak into me.

Lacey/Lisabeth is walking around with an odd King Leo scene. Maybe after Avelyn's reply?

Elizabeth Wills

Elyeam was so kind. He sat down and spent a few moments with me. I could not finish my dinner, so he gladly enjoyed himself by finishing it for me. He was a pleasant physician. Always at my side, making sure I was alright...

"Elyeam," Olivander walked through the door. He had a serious look to his face. He said his name fairly softly. Elyeam jumped and looked over, something hovering in his face, an emotion I couldn't detect.

"Yes, Sir Olivander?" Elyeam replied.

"How is Elizabeth?"

The concern he had for me was unbelievable. I was just a sorry servant and he was a knight. Why would he care?

"Oh, she is getting better. You can cometh in and see her."

Olivander took the chance and stepped into the room, going to the other side of my bed, opposite of Elyeam. I saw something sparkle in his hand as a sun ray jumped to the object. Holding my breath for a moment, I watched him sit down on the bed and look at me, his grey eyes glistening.

"Hello, Liz." Olivander said, very quietly I barely caught his words. "Are you feeling better?"

Elyeam stood up and walked out of the room, leaving me feeling empty. He shut the door behind him. I guess he felt safe that a knight was here. He wouldn't do anything to me, right? Of course not, I knew him.

"Well, well." I smiled.

"Good," he sighed, looking at my lips for a moment, making my heart race. "I brought you something special."

He unwrapped his hand, revealing a small rock. It was clear and sharp, the color pink, like the roses I just helped plant just outside the castle, by the dam. I stuck my hand out and he let the rock fall onto it, barely making and imprint in my hand. It was the size of a button on a jumper.

"My... oh... my..." I breathed out, lifting my hand so I could look at it closer. It was a perfect carrot.

"How did you... where..." I couldn't even ask a straight question.

"My father, he is a miner. He found it somewhere and gave it to me. He said that I should give it to a special maiden." his voice was thick with emotion.

I looked up from the rock and saw what I wasn't sure if I wanted to see. He had love in his eyes. Love so strong, it struck me. Deep. I clasped my hand over the rock and took a deep breath, unsure of what to say.

"You are a special maiden, Elizabeth." he added.

"Olivander..." I managed. "I... I am flattered."

He blinked, his confidence falling.

"Are you sure?" I added.

All he did is give me a small nod and clasp his hand around mine, the one with the rock in it. My hand tingled at his touch and I could not believe what I was feeling. It was a hot flame eating at the bottom of my stomach.

"Are thou going to kiss me?" I asked, my voice shaking.

"Yes,"

Princess Jacqueline of Urbaniak

I had my heart torn to pieces. Why would I love all these wonderful men and not get any love in return? I should not have even tried. My prince in waiting was the only one for me, so I shall not far fetch myself.

Queen Avelyn was missing the next morning. I awoke to soft whispers and worried faces, it made my heart jump. She was my greatest friend, she couldn't have gone missing. She's giving labor soon!

I walked all over the castle in a hurry, looking for Avelyn. But she couldn't be found. She had not left a trace of herself. Her room was lost of her presence, all her items vanished. King Leo seemed horribly surprised and could not stop yelling at every person, asking for where she could have gone.

Where I landed was in a bedroom with King Leo. He was sitting on the bed, freshly made. His head was in his hands as he softly shook, strange noises came out of him. I took each step carefully as I walked in, worried.

"King Leo," I said softly.

He lifted his head. His eyes were red and tears were drowning his cheeks. I took a step closer and stood in front of him, just a foot away.

"What can I do to help?" I tried.

"Can you findeth Avelyn?" his voice was frantic. "Please? Why would she leave?"

I decided to sit down next to him and take his hand in mine. Squeezing it for a second, I tried my best to comfort him. There was nothing anybody can do. He has all his knights searching for her. The castle was deserted of security, but that was for the best.

"Did you know?" he asked, desperation shaping his voice.

"No, if I did, I would have told."

His eyes found mine. "Yes, of course."

I swallowed hard and looked at the floor, taking in the stone. Whoever built this castle was magnificent. They knew how to make something beautiful with minimal colors. This was one of my favorite castles, other than my own.

"Jacqueline, was there anything wrong with her?" he asked.

"I believe not, she seemed fair." I replied, still looking at the ground.

It was him who squeezed my hand this time and I looked back at him, feeling sorrow all over me. This man was in horrible pain caused by my friend. My greatest friend did this. She would not have! I cannot believe it! Was she kidnapped? Was she killed? She could not have escaped, left.

"She must have gotten taken. She would not leave, King Leo." I suggested.

"No, that is not possible. No one would take her... I knew something was wrong. Our relations were falling... she left." King Leo rambled on.

"I know Avelyn, she just would not." I was pleading for a different look at this. But he was not taking it.

He shook his head and stood up, leaving my hand cold. He started to walk back and forth in front of me, running his hand over his face.

"I know her as well, Princess. She would go." he was hopeless.

"Why?" I said.

Suddenly, he stopped walking and stood in front of me, looking above my head at the wall behind me. An emotion shifted on his face as he breathed. Then, he laid his eyes on me. It made my skin tingle.

"She must have lost her love for me."

"No, no. That is not true!" I tried.

Sir William of Franco

"Have you seen Queen Avelyn at late night or dawn?" I asked a country man.

He shivered, the wind collapsing around us. There was a look he had on his face which made me want to inch away, but I had to do my duty.

"Queen Avelyn? I haventh seen that fair maiden." his voice was hoarse.

I nodded, giving him a smile. He walked past me and I felt hopeless. That was the last man of the village. There was no one else to ask. Children couldn't be asked, they had short memory. But maybe.

A small girl was just ahead of me, holding a straw basket in her hands. I walked over to her, bending down to her level. She stopped abruptly and struck her wide eyes at me. I may have look intimidating with my black clothes.

"Hello, I am Sir William." I started with a sweet and gentle voice. "You areth?"

"Um..." she murmured, probably look for a way to escape. But then she cracked. "I am Helena."

"Oh, Helena. Do you want help with that basket?"

She nodded, handing me the basket. I took it and stood up, following Helena to her home. The sun was blazing in the sky as we walked, but it wasn't giving off any heat.

"Helena, have you seen Queen Avelyn?" I asked.

She turned her head for a second to look at me and then faced straight again.

"Yes, I saweth Queen Avelyn last night."

A hope sprung inside of me as we walked. She took a turn on the corner and there we were. It was a grand house with beautiful woodwork, one I would build myself.

"Where did she go, do you believe? Was she with someone?" I asked.

Helena stood in front of me, giving me a curious look. Then she breathed out, rolling her eyes. "Areth you her lover?"

I shivered at the thought and smiled. "No... no."

"Why would you care?" she had a confident voice.

"She is our Queen and I am her knight. It is my duty to find her. She went missing last night, dear Helena." I explained.

Her eyes got wide again and she looked at the ground, as if thinking to herself.

"She was with a man."

Sir Olivander of Hemingway

I have not said this before, but I have loved Elizabeth for a long time. The reason I made love to Kristin was that I was taken away by her. She was a stunning woman and it was a pleasure to be with her at least for one night. She took my breath away. But Elizabeth stole my heart. That was the difference.

There was a gift I had given Elizabeth that made her smile. I had told her that I loved her, and she did not fret. Kissing her was just like kissing the snow that was falling from the sky. Soft and breathless.

Now, I was searching for Queen Avelyn. Sir William already did his rounds, so it was me who had to go over the rest of them. He was in the kitchen with a little girl and her father, talking to the King.

I stepped out into the village and searched around for missing traces to Sir William could have missed. The ground was cluttered with mud and items people left behind as they walked. The only thing I could find was a scarf that I knew was Queen Avelyn's. She wore it when I first came into the castle. It was a dark red, almost blood red and made of stain. I took it in my hand and walked along the stone path, talking to people as I went by.

"Sir! Sir!" a man called from behind me. I spun on my heel and met face-to-face with a man. He was around my age, looked smart, and had a frantic look to his face.

"Yes?" I said, calmly.

"I saw Queen Avelyn."

"Everyone has," I smirked.

He shook his head, his full head of hair running into his eyes. I believed he was a pauper. All his clothes were raggedy and his hands look worked out.

"No, I saweth her last nightfall. She left in a carriage with The Duke." his voice was weak.

"The Duke? Areth you sure?"

"Yes,"

I stood for a moment, taking in the information. This was a man of my age, he could not lie. He knew better. So, that means The Duke kidnapped her.

"What are you called?" I asked.

"Chandler, Chandler Frodo Samuels."

"Chandler Samuels, I am Sir Oliver of Hemingway. I will take you to the castle to explain what you saw to The King." I said.

And we were off.

Avelyn

"They are probably looking for me now." I say quietly to myself.

Aschetel is leading the carriage through a particularly dangerous forest, one that most knights have been warned not to go through. For safety reasons of course.

I look out through the small window and notice the sun beginning to lower. I knock on the small door between myself and the duke and the carriage begins to slow down. When it is at a complete stop I open the door on the side and hop out, just as Duke was about to open the heavy latch. I end up falling into his arms, but he catches me easily and I sigh into his collar.

"We've finally gotten out my love." I say quietly looking up at him.

"Yes, but we are not totally out of danger yet, Avelyn. We have covered much distance, yes, but we are not completely safe until we have gotten to our destination. Not only that, but this is a particularly dangerous forest."

I sigh.

"Than can I sit up front with you Ash? It gets lonely back there. And my books are doing nothing for my boredom."

Aschetel laughs and hugs me to him tighter.

"You have always been a hard one to please Avelyn. Yes, you can sit up front with me. But just be sure to sit close to me. I wouldn't want you to fall off."

I nod excitedly, and accept his hand to help me up. After maybe an hour of us sitting in a comfortable silence, i lay my head down on his broad shoulder.

"I am glad that you are letting your hair grow out. It's quite attractive."

He chuckles and shakes his head.

"Anything to please you Avelyn."

I sigh heavily and place a hand on my large stomach.

"They will be looking for us. They've probably already began. They might even be in this forest now."

Aschetel shrugs and smiles softly.

"They might be. But remember, they have no idea where we are going. Only I. I'm sorry that I have not described the place to you yet, but that is just to surprise you my love."

I smile widely.

"Oh you know how much I love surprises. Now the thought of it is slowly killing me." Suddenly we pass a particularly large tree. A tree so large that it partially covers the sun from my view point just a bit. "Oh my! That really is quite a large tree!"

Suddenly Ashtons eyes widen when taking notice of it. And then he breaks out into a particularly wide and joyous smile.

"That isn't just any tree my love. That is the tree that took the brigade and I a fortnight to see. Do you know what that means?"

I gasp and clap my hands in delight.

"Does that mean that we are already near our new home? After only a night? I thought that it would take a fortnight!"

He shakes his head.

"On the safe path. We took the dangerous forest path that the King has forbidden anybody to go through, no matter what. So not only will the knights not be able to find us because the place I found for our home is particularly hidden, but even if the knights decide to disobey orders, this forests path can not be traced. And...we are home."

Suddenly the trees begin getting more and more sparse as we continue on, and then we are led to a wide cave opening. My eyes widen as we enter and Aschetel lights a lantern as we go into its dark depths. Its wide enough for the horses and the carriage to fit comfortably so we're able to continue on. Suddenly the cave splits off into several different openings. I silently count eighteen and I watch as Aschetel slowly leads the horses into the sixth to the left. I quickly look back and realize that we are now entirely encased in rock. No tracks are being made by the horses or the wheels, and I sigh in relief.

"How did you find this place Ash?" I whisper, not wanting to disturb the quiet of the cave.

He just smiles and remains quiet.

After about an hour of going through what seemed like a never ending journey through the cave, I finally began to make out a small orange light that was beginning to get bigger. Soon I could no longer here the horses hooves on the ground because we were now on soft and moist looking dirt. And as the caves walls began falling away were are once again led into the thick of a deep forest.

"So you found us a place in the forest?" I ask curiously.

Aschetel shakes his head and continues riding at a fast and steady pace. Soon the trees begin to get sparse again, yet now we're in tall grasses. As I look down I notice flower after flower, all are colorful and exotic looking. I look around in a broader expanse and notice small trees holding exotic looking fruit, and suddenly I see a lake as we begin going down hill. A large, blue, clear and fresh lake. And right by it is a nice sized cottage.

My eyes begin to tear up and I quickly look at Ash. He has began to slow down and he looks over at me with a soft smile.

"This...this is our home?" I ask quietly, my eyes wide and the happy tears falling freely from my lids.

He nods, and as we come to the front of it, he quickly hops off and crosses to my side and extends a hand to me. I accept his hand and allow him to help me gently down.

"How...?"

He shrugs.

"I found the place a fortnight after the brigade and I took off for our voyage. Everyone had been sleeping, and I decided to explore for the night. It was autumn at the time, so I would have been able to hear if anyone decided to follow me. I decided to delve into the dangerous forest, and got lost on it. After about an hour of aimless wondering, I came across a large tree. I decided to continue, and found the cave. I don't know why I decided to turn down that entrance, it was honestly quite random. After wondering through the forest I found this meadow, and with its lake and flowers and strange fruit, I knew that it was for you. I came upon it just as the sun began to come up. And again...I just knew."

I suddenly hug him tightly and laugh. I laugh because...well...I'm finally free.

"You built this cottage all on your own?" I ask in between light giggles.

He nods.

"You already know that uncle Theodore wanted to become a castle architect. I just made sure to tag along with him as a child, and came to learn how to build on my own. The same day I found it I told the knights that I would be breaking off to visit a few villages near over east. None of them asked any questions, although I knew that they wanted to, they didn't have the right, because I am in a higher social caliber than they. For once I was thankful to be royalty. I stayed here, for those eight months, to build this place. I traveled to nearby villages to get things like a wood burning stove, and special rock for a fire place. And a bed and dresser. Would you like to come in and see?"

I nod with a small smile on my face and he take my hand and leads me to the front wooden door. When he opens it I almost gasp. It is fully furnished, with a floor and table and sitting area. Everything. It is large inside. The living area is large, as is the kitchen area. As I walk through the home, I take in the bathing area, and when I walk into one of the large bedrooms I cry out when I see the cradle.

"This...this is amazing." I say breathlessly.

He nods.

"All for you. And our child."

I turn to him and smash my lips upon his. He hugs me to him tightly, and suddenly picks me up. He kicks open a bedroom door, his mouth still on mine , and then slowly lowers me down into a bed. When we are both on, our kissing is not hurried and passionate, but long and sweet. He hugs me closely to him as we lay cuddled in the comfortable bed.

"I feel as if this is a dream." I say quietly.

He nods.

"As do I. You are what I have been dreaming for. And now that I have you..." He shakes his head and smiles sleepily. "I almost have no idea what to do with you."

I smile and kiss his lips softly.

"You can go to sleep. Because I will be here tomorrow. And they day after. And forever on after that."

He nods and slowly his eye close. I cuddle up to his chest and soon I am beginning to fall asleep. Just as I am beginning to fall under the netherlands of unconsciousness, I feel a warm liquid escape me from between my thighs. My eyes suddenly shoot open and I look down to find that my maidens water has just broke.

"Ash..."

Leo Westings- Medieval Times- King Leonidas of Westings (King Leo for short)

I look around the busy room, full of guards and knights and palace officials and sigh deeply. I still have no idea how I have gotten to this point. Having been born into a poor family, I never imagined that this could happen. I had always admired the knights when I was younger. In their checkered, royally sewed garments, atop majestic horses. So I trained. Until one day our late King was on a voyage out and saw my vicious, yet lacking true teaching, training.

He raised me since than, beginning at 13. He taught me how to be a man, how to anger than ease. How to be a king. And then when I finally turned 17 he introduced me to his daughter. There had been a rumor among the villages that the princes was the fairest maiden to ever walk, but I had never believed it. Until I met her.

Her dark brown curls cascaded down her back, until it reached the back of her knee. Another rumor was that the princess only cut her hair once a year. Yet another rumor proved true. Her face held an ethereal beauty that no human that I had ever seen held, and her dark green eyes had watched me with kindness and sweetness that day. Her caramel skin looked exotic compared to all of the pale or tanned workers and bakers in the Piest village. But what will always stay with me since that day of meeting her was her laugh.

After several years of training under the king, he had finally allowed me to eat breakfast with his family. The late queen, probably the second fairest maiden, even with her age, had treated me kindly as if I was a visiting family member. Yet it was princess Avelyn whom really made me feel connected to them as a unit. With her abrasive, dirty jokes, nosiness into what was happening around the world, and all around...well realness. She acted this way with everyone, and never chose to shy away, no matter who she was speaking to. She didn't act like she owned the world, actually quite the opposite, she saw her petite physique, and frail humanity and life as a weapon. She wanted to take on the world. She took what she wanted without asking questions, not because she was a princess, but because she was Avelyn Piest, and she wanted it.

I saw all of this throughout the breakfast, while I stayed quiet and listened attentively to the Queens and Avelyns way of conversating, and the Kings happy silent yet loud personality. They all just mixed and fit like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

"Yes, the palace guard truly does know how to drink, in a greater regard than the russians and irish know how to make ale." I said it quietly enough, but suddenly the whole table was silent.

I had always made sure to keep a regal and respectful tone with the King, so now he was probably regretting ever bringing me to his family. His Queen and daughter were both probably looking down at me in the way that they would look at a particularly crude peas-

"Ahaha! You are so very right! I've seen the guards as they've staggered their way back into their quarters! One of the most laughable sights I've ever seen! Why isn't that right Peter?"

Princess Avelyn laughs heartily after making Peter blush and look down. And then she turns to me laughing even harder, so hard in fact that tears start forming in her eyes. And that laugh! It rings throughout the elegant, high-ceiling dining hall like a clear bell, or a wind chime. Its beautiful...and real. And when I meet the Kings' eyes, he doesn't look at me in disdain for my crudeness, but with a large smile.

After breakfast has finished and the king tells me that its all right to retire for the rest of the day, I begin walking out of the palace to be chased down by Avelyn.

"You have nothing to do for the rest of the day Leo?" She asks curiously falling into step beside me.

I shake my head and smile down at her. She smiles brightly up at me.

"Good. Then lets go do something!"

For the rest of that day, I got to know the real Avelyn. Not the stuck up facade she put up in front of people she didn't know, but the silly, goofy, sweet girl. The girl who managed to catch the attention of anyone in her vicinity. Her personality sparkled even more than her beauty, which is definitely saying something, seeing as to how she looks like an angel. And as I walked her up to her sleeping quarters...and she hugged me close to her curvaceous soft body and looked up at me with those wide dark green eyes of hers, I fell in love with her right there.

She never opened up to me about everything in her past, but that was alright as long as I knew what I had to. But something always kept her distant. I was never quite sure. Suddenly I realize that I lied to the Princess earlier. I never truly had all of Avelyns heart. Ever.

--------------------

"And then through the small window of the carriage I was able to see a huddled figure with long, long hair, and a beautiful face. And then I just knew that it was our princess. Although I had never seen her, I remembered the rumors. The hair. The face. So...that is it. I didn't really see where they went from there, but I know that it was our Queen. And the Duke."

I keep my face expressionless. Blank and expressionless.

"You may stay in a royal guest room. Thank you...Chandler." I turn to Olivander. "I'm going to retire now. Show Chandler to a room."

I get up and walk out. The walk feels strained and difficult. When I get to my bedroom, I see a figure in the bed, and for a second I believe that Avelyn is back. But when I light the lantern hanging on my wall, I can see that it is Kristin gently shaking in my bed.

"Duchess...?" I ask quietly.

"Oh...I am sorry Leo. But...but...why didn't she tell me? I-I miss her..." she dissolves into sobs once again and I lay on the bed next to her.

"I feel her absence like a stone in my stomach and a fiery spear in my heart. I know your sorrow. Would you like to stay here for the night, Kristin?"

She nods and gets under the beds duvet. I remain on top of it, unable to move. I know that it is indecent to sleep next to a woman that is not your wife, but I can understand Kristins pain and fear right now. And the need to sleep next to someone else.

"I hate the Duke of Madelyn ,Leo."

I nod. I can understand why. So I shrug.

"Than stay here Duchess. I don't mind. I'll have a court divorce you two if you need me to. I don't mind."

"Really?" she asks, her voice thick with tears, but hopeful.

I turn to her and nod.

"Yes. Avelyn will be happy to see you here when my knights get her back. And they will get her back."