Letters of Romeo and Juliet [On hold]

Chapter 12

Disclaimer: This chapter contains mature scenes. Not suitable for young readers.

Chapter 12

    "But mother, can we not find another maiden?" James asked.

    "Is there something wrong with her then? Some unpleasant features or perhaps, a disagreeing character?" Queen Elizabeth replied as she sat down on the chair in front of a dresser.

    "No mama, not of the sort. Can we not just - "

    She raised a hand to stop him. "Now my son, my time here is not getting any longer nor am I getting any younger. So, the marriage must continue," she said taking off her jewelries.

    James sighed. "Mama, there are other maidens."

    "And how long must I wait?" the queen replied then stood up. She placed a hand on the side of James' face and smiled. "I know that it seems rather fast my son. But also, do try to understand that we need a heir. You are, and will be very occupied, with your ruling over such a vast kingdom. She is a best choice my dear. Now, get some rest."

     James gave out another sigh and nodded. "Good night mother," he said and kissed the queen's forehead. He bowed lightly and went outside, closing the door behind him.

     He pinched the bridge of his nose. What a troubling night.

Gordon picked up a worn out leather satchel and headed out into the cold night. He lit up a spirit lamp and walked briskly through the garden. Carefully, he opened the wooden door and headed out towards a small clearing where the cottage was located.

     Carlyle was standing near the door. He rubbed his hands together as the cold wind blew past him.

     "Ah, here you are lad. Let's go inside, away from the cold," Gordon said as he unlocked the door and both went in.

     The cottage was small but quaint. A few hooks on the side of the walls, and a few small shelves on one side. There are two windows, one facing east and the other, right next to the door. In the middle was a small round table with four wooden stools. A few paces ahead the table, was a stack of fur and wool, that served as a bed. Left side to it, was a small stone fireplace, with a rod just above the coals to hang a pot.

     Gordon placed the satchel down the table and sat on one of the stools. Carlyle followed and sat opposite to him.

     "Here are some clothes, and a map," he said as he pushed lightly the satchel towards Carlyle.

     Carlyle took out the rolled paper and opened it.

     "This is in between Wellington and Wolderford, just near the Black Wing Mount. Aren't the Marlows settling there?" Carlyle asked with a raised eyebrow.

    "Nay lad, the place is deserted. They have moved to Tregaron Fjord . . ."

     "Nearer to Camembrahm, but hidden," Carlyle finished with a nod.

     Gordon cleared his throat. "You will find a small house, after crossing the Solva River by horse. You must cross before nightfall, for the the river is dangerous. Ye need not worry of future resources, for where ye are headed, it is very abundant. The location is hidden, keeping both of you safe."

     "And the clothes?"

    "A disguise and a distinguishing sign for Lady Cassandra to know it is ye, lad."

     Carlyle nodded and examined the map once again.

    Gordon heard a faint sound of a snap. He felt uneasy.

     "I will send you both off by the morrow. Meet us both at the castle's undercroft by nightfall. I will send thee a map, to guide ye where to go."

Lady Katherine walked down the bricked steps of the wine cellar. The sound of poured liquid filled the silent cove along with her echoing footsteps.

     "What have you learned?" Lady Katherine asked as she made her way towards a wooden dining table.

     A man with a strong build leaned against the arching wall near the table, his face was hidden by the casted shadow of the arc. He made a smirk as he swirlled his wine-filled goblet.

     Lady Katherine, in her night dress, stopped a few feet away from him. He set his goblet down and made a step towards her.

     The orange glow from the lamp illuminated his face. His green eyes looked directly at the duchess' face, like a hungry predator. He moved his mouth lightly and made a mischievous grin, making his jawbone more prominent. A scar ran across his right cheekbone towards his long nose.

     Lady Katherine extended her arm with a bag full of gold. "Your payment. Now, tell me their plan."

     He grabbed the bag and examined the contents. "Ah . . . this is not enough, my lady," he said with a grin looking at a piece of gold coin. He placed it back in the bag and tied it on his belt.

     "300 pieces of gold, for such a simple task is more than enough."

    "Yes indeed, but I know very well, that this task is just the beginning,my dear," he replied and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her towards him.

     Her heart thumped hard and fast against her chest. The desire burned up inside her. She wanted to break free, but her gaze was locked against his, making her unmoved.

     He slowly lowered his face towards hers and their lips met. Her face hit up as he deepened the kiss. He slowly removed her garments, leaving only a silk tunic on. He pulled away lightly and he looked straight into her eyes.

     "They are planning to escape on the morrow, and I know, my dear, that you want me to intervene. You and I, think alike. I know what you want," he said in a husky voice.

     "I know, and I trust ye Symond," she replied.

     He placed his lips against hers again. His fingers touched her skin making her shiver lightly, as he took off her tunic, leaving her completely naked. His fingers traced down her spine, as his slow kisses made its way down her neck. She slightly arched her neck back, his kisses tracing her collar bone, then stopped.

      "What seems to be the matter, my love?" Lady Katherine asked as she placed a hand on the side of his face.

     "Nothing at all," Symond replied and kissed her once again.