Bound by Honor (Book 1 in the Legacy of Love Series)

Chapter 2: Across the Narrow Sea

Sir Lucien mounted his horse beside Isolde's carriage, a steadfast figure who would see her safely to her new life across the channel. She leaned out the window as the carriage began to move, watching her family grow smaller in the distance. She waved until they became only faint silhouettes on the castle's edge, her heart heavy with the finality of her departure.

As they traveled, the landscape unfolded around them in quiet majesty, the fields and villages of her homeland slipping past with every mile. Though Isolde kept her composure, her mind churned with questions of what lay ahead. Each mile was a step further into her new life, and though she was ready to fulfill her duty, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was shedding a part of herself with each passing landmark.

Sir Lucien rode alongside her window, his presence both reassuring and bittersweet. They spoke quietly, discussing the customs of the English court, the expectations she would face as Lady Marborough, and the figures of influence she might encounter. He shared the subtle details of etiquette and the ways in which court alliances could shape lives-valuable insights that Isolde committed to memory.

"The English court is a place of grandeur, but also one of calculation," Lucien explained as they neared the coast. "Be vigilant, but also remember your dignity. It will be your strength."

Isolde nodded, grateful for his guidance. He had always been her confidant, and even now, as their roles shifted, he seemed determined to help her face the unknown with strength. "Thank you, Lucien," she replied, her voice soft. "I will keep your words close."

By late afternoon, they reached Dover, and the sight of the white cliffs rising above the sea took Isolde's breath away. The English Channel stretched before them, its waters restless under a slate-colored sky. Lucien pointed to the horizon. "There it is, my lady-the Narrow Sea. Beyond it lies the life you are about to claim."

Isolde felt a chill as she gazed at the churning waves, realizing the magnitude of the distance she was about to cross. The sea was narrow, yet it separated her from everything familiar, from the home that had shaped her and the people she held dear. And though she knew this path was her duty, she could not help but feel the weight of each choice that had brought her to this moment.

The sun dipped low as they boarded the ship, casting a golden glow over the cliffs. The sturdy vessel, prepared for the journey across the channel, rocked gently as it left the harbor. Isolde stood at the rail, watching the cliffs recede, each moment pulling her further into the unknown.

"Quite the sight, isn't it?" Lucien remarked, joining her as the ship began to gather speed. "The English have always seen these cliffs as a mark of resilience. It's said those who conquer Dover conquer England."

Isolde nodded, her gaze fixed on the shoreline. "It feels like a world unto itself," she murmured. "One I must soon make my own."

Lucien's gaze softened, his tone gentle. "England is more than the land and the sea. It's a place filled with stories and ambitions. You will add yours to its history."

Their conversation was interrupted by the captain, who approached with a respectful bow. "My lady, Sir Lucien, we expect to reach Calais by nightfall, weather permitting. The waters are likely to grow rough soon; you may want to rest in your cabin."

Isolde thanked him and retreated to her quarters, a modest but comfortable room with a small window overlooking the vast expanse of water. She lay on the narrow cot, listening to the creaking of the wood and the distant hum of the sailors' voices above deck. In the solitude, she gathered her thoughts, letting go of the last remnants of Valcourt and bracing herself for the days to come.

As dawn broke over Calais, a soft golden light seeped through the curtains of Isolde's room, gently nudging her awake. Today, they would journey to London, a prospect that filled her with a blend of excitement and nervousness. After a swift breakfast, Isolde and Sir Lucian set off once more, their carriage rolling steadily towards the heart of her new homeland.