The Black Duke

Chapter 1

PROLOGUE

Prologue

Marcus was a striking figure from head to toe, even in the year 1702. His skin was a rich, dark brown that glowed with vitality and health. His almond-shaped eyes were deep brown, and his thick, full lips were always turned up in a subtle smile. His frame was broad and muscular, standing at an impressive 6'4" with strong thighs that hinted at his incredible physical strength.

Despite his physical prowess, Marcus was more than just a handsome face and chiseled physique. He possessed a regal bearing that was both intimidating and captivating, drawing the eye of everyone who saw him. His pride was evident in every step he took, and his air of superiority was palpable, even among the highest nobles of England. However, despite his haughty exterior, Marcus was a kind and generous man at heart, always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

The King's daughter, Elizabeth, did not initially take to Marcus. In public, she would often give him cool glances and dismissive remarks, but in her thoughts, she found herself drawn to him in a way that made her constantly flustered and clumsy when they were in close proximity. She couldn't deny the attraction she felt for him, even as she tried to keep up appearances and maintain her aloof facade.

Despite any initial animosity, Marcus quickly became a beloved figure among the nobility in 1702. His charming personality and affable nature won over even those who were initially put off by his pride. He was a man of many talents, equally skilled in music, art, and combat. Everyone wanted to be in his company, to bask in the glow of his presence and hear his stories of his homeland.

Eventually, in 1702, the King recognized Marcus's unique status as a member of the African royal bloodline, and granted him a Dukedom as his rightful inheritance. Marcus wasted no time in building a magnificent home on the land granted to him by the King, overlooking a grand lake in Warwick. The home was a sight to behold, with furnishings from the finest places in the world, and decorations that spoke to Marcus's impeccable taste and style.

The Queen and King doted on Marcus, eager to bask in his glory and claim him as their own. And yet, despite his status and success in 1702, Marcus never forgot his roots, always maintaining a connection to his African homeland and the family that he had left behind. As he settled into his new life in England, he knew that he would always carry a piece of his past with him, no matter how grand his present might become.

Chapter 1

The introduction

Marcus sat comfortably in the Earl of Shrewsbury's office, a glass of brandy in hand as he chatted amiably with his host. The Earl, Charles Abbot Chatterwynd, was a close friend of Marcus's, and the two often spent their afternoons in deep conversation, discussing everything from politics to literature.

On this particular day, the Earl's youngest brother, Kenneth, was also present in the office. He was a strong-willed, air-headed young man, who often found himself at odds with his older brother's more serious demeanor. Nonetheless, the three gentlemen sat in the Earl's grand office, surrounded by oak-paneled walls and plush furnishings, discussing the weighty matter of duty.

The topic at hand was the Duke's need to find a bride soon. The Earl was insistent that the Duke play his part and find a suitable wife, and he was in the process of planning a grand ball in honor of this mission. Kenneth listened to the conversation with interest, but he could sense the Duke's hesitation.

As the Duke leaned on the Earl's desk with one leg stretched out, Kenneth studied him carefully. He could see the worry etched on the Duke's face, and he could understand why. Marriage in England was a different affair than in Duke's homeland, and the thought of being paraded around like a prize bull was unsettling.