The Promises We Make- Uhtred of Bebbanburg

Chapter Two

Night had fallen fairly early over Normandy. The harsh winter air still lingered through the castle, no matter how many fires were lit to keep us warm. But I didn't care. Winter had been my favourite season since I could remember. Loving how freshly laid ice made pattens on the window glass and how the winter sun reflected on a blanket of snow.

It was beautiful.

But such memories were taken over by the leaving feast my father had organised for my last night in Normandy. It was just another way to show off his 'beloved daughter' was going to Wessex to be the next queen. Something lords had wished for their daughters future.

"Ouch!" I hissed from the stabbing pain coming from my head.

"I'm sorry my lady." Celine quickly apologised, soothing her hand over the injury. She was currently styling my hair into a low bun, leaving some of my long, black curls at the front to shape my round face.

"Time for the dress my lady." Then, Celine pulled out a dark, blue silk dress from behind my chamber door. It had long sleeves and small golden embroidered lions around the neck line that somewhat shimmered in candle light. It was a dress made to represent Normandy.

It didn't take long before I was dressed and ready to attend the feast.
"You look beautiful my lady." Celine cheered. "Just a few finishing touches." She began to brush down the creases that made themselves known in the fabric. After, she picked up a small perfume bottle from the dressing table and gently tapped some around my neck.

"Done!"

"Thank you Celine." I brought her in for a hug. "You are dismissed for the rest of the night." Celine deserved it, and much more for all the things she had done for me. "Though, I do require a little help when I retire for the night" I smiled guiltily. "But do enjoy your time with your family."

"Thank you my lady. Oh and a maid came by early, saying your mother wanted to see you"

"I will go to her now."

**

My mother was currently in confinement, awaiting the birth of her son. Many feared, especially father, that she could no longer produce any more children. But once again, god had blessed them with a child. Being older this time, she was constantly cared for. The duke did everything in his power to make this child strong and healthy. Money did not matter to him. He was desperate for another son. A spare.

Turning a corner, my thoughts were interrupted by voices echoing through the hollow castle halls.

"Why are you here?" Leon requested.

"As I have said to this idiot, I'm here on behalf of King Alfred." A deep, yet soft voice replied.

Why would King Alfred send men? I thought I was to travel with my brother and fathers guards?

Becoming intrigued, I moved closer, leaning flat against the stone wall, just around the corner of where the conversation was being held.

"And he sent you?"

"Yes. Is it that hard to believe my lord?" The man's accent was becoming clear. A dane.

The dane spoke once more to break the silence.

"My men and I have been sent by King Alfred to escort Edward's bride to Wessex. It's all in the letter." He huffed, getting annoyed from repeating himself.

"King Alfred wouldn't do this without a reason." Leon's voice showed concern. "Give me the letter." Leon ordered the castle guard in our mother tongue. The same guard who had brought in the mysterious dane to Leon. The sound of ripped paper was the only thing I could hear until Leon spoke once more.