We Don't Do It for Love: Chapter 2

North Umbria

The outside of the castle bustled with guests arriving. A carriage went through the gate and stopped. The guests inside were there to discuss a possible alliance between the two kingdoms. Kingdoms that were smaller than a much larger neighboring kingdom. A kingdom that was vying for more power.

King Charles sat next to his wife, whom he adored. She was considerably younger than him. His first wife died a few years prior while giving birth to his son who was still a child.

He was average height; his belly was round and so was his face. His wife was a delicate beauty with skin the color of sweet milk, her long black hair was in a braided bun pulled back off her face showing off her rosy cheeks. She was nearly the same age as his youngest daughter Winfred whom he was considering marrying off to Prince Oswald if things went well that night.

Queen Godgifu looked at her husband, “It seems that we have arrived.”

He smiled, “Yes, my love. We have.” He looked at his daughter whose face was sour. She hated the idea of being used to gain political power but it was the way of things. It was what her mother expressed to her many times as she was coming of age. “Smile for God’s sake,” King Charles said with authority.

She sighed, “I’ll smile when there is something to smile about,” she rebutted.

He huffed. Queen Godgifu touched his thigh as she spoke to her stepdaughter, “I heard that Prince Oswald is quite handsome. You two should have the most beautiful children.”

Her cousin reached for her hand, “I’ll gladly go with you wherever life takes you.”

Princess Winfred smiled, “Thank you, dear cousin. You are my one true friend.”

The carriage door opened, and a young man stood by at the ready, he helped the King out of the carriage, then the queen. His hand reached for Lady Darleen. She smiled as he helped her out. Her eyes locked with his for a moment and then he looked away.

He looked inside. His eyes danced across her skin. No woman had ever made his blood warm like her. Her eyes met his and her face softened. She loved to go on carriage rides. Especially the ones with him as the guide. Her hand touched his, his heart raced, Princess Winfred,” he said as he helped her out of the carriage.

“Thank you, Arledge. You are always so kind.”

He blushed. Queen Godgifu noticed, “That will be all Arledge. We shall see you after we’re done.”

“Yes Queen Godgifu,” he bowed and went back to the top of the carriage. The sound of the horses trotting away could be heard as they walked toward the entrance to be received by their hosts.

****

The moment had finally arrived. He was happy it wasn’t him. There were some perks to being the second son of a King. Prince Liam looked dashing. His blue eyes sparkled. A young man who was only nineteen years old with insanely good looks. His hair was light brown like his mother’s. He wore it short and tapered on the sides with the front slightly longer.

He left his room. His mother was passing by. She stopped to admire him, “Don’t you look so handsome. Once we are done securing a bride for Oswald, we should start prospecting for yours.”

“Mother please.”

“Don’t you want to find happiness, children?”

Liam shrugged, “Marriage doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness and children,” he sighed, “I plan to be a commander like Aethelbald. I do not wish to subject a family to the harsh life of wondering if I will die every time I go to battle.”

She touched his face, “Still, I think it would be a good idea. But for now, I’ll leave you be. Go and find your brother. King Charles is here with his wife and the Princess.”

Liam nodded, “Yes, mother.” He watched as she walked away in her beautiful green gown that swept the floor as she walked. He turned and found his way to his brother’s bedroom door. He tapped gently before walking inside. He saw his brother dressed in his finest attire, “Your future wife and in-laws have arrived.”

Oswald turned and eyed Liam, “Is she at least easy on the eyes?”

Liam shrugged, “I cannot say for certain for my eyes have not rested on her. But I’m sure she’s beautiful as many princesses are quite fair.”

“Fair. Yes. Pleasant and easy to get along with?” he responded with slight despair.

Liam chuckled, “I suppose we should hurry and you can begin your assessment.”

******

Waiting seemed like . Even though she had heard that Prince Oswald was handsome, there was still the fear of not knowing his temperament. Her older sister was married off to a tyrant of a man. She didn’t want that to be her fate.

The conversation in the room came to a halt when the sons of the king entered. Lady Darleen nudged her cousin, “It’s him,” she said to her in a whisper.

“Which one?” she asked with curiosity.

“Does it matter? I’d take either.”

Princess Winfred maintained her composure as the men approached accompanied by a bishop. King Oswald smiled, “King Charles and Queen Godgifu, I present to you my sons, Prince Oswald and Prince Liam.”

Prince Oswald shook King Charles’ hand, “It’s truly a pleasure,” he said before kissing the top of the Queen’s hand, “Queen Godgifu.”

Her heart fluttered. She smiled inside.

“It’s a pleasure to meet your sons. May I present to you Prince Oswald, my youngest daughter Princess Winfred?” said King Charles smiling as he showed off his beautiful daughter.

Prince Oswald took her hand, holding her in his gaze, “It’s indeed a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess Winfred,” slowly his lips pressed to the top of her hand.”

“I am also relieved to finally meet you. I hope to also speak with you at your convenience.”

“There will be plenty of time for conversations, let’s have Father Agyfen bless the meal and we can all nourish ourselves,” replied King Oswald.

They agreed that it was time to eat and drink. It was a long trip to the castle and they didn’t plan to leave until the next day. As everyone sat at the long rectangular table, Father Agyfen stood at the top of the room, “Christ our dear Lord and Savior, please bless this food. May it be nourishment to our bodies for the uplifting of your Holy kingdom. Amen”

“Amen,” everyone replied as they made the sign for the cross.

As dinner was being placed on the table, looks were made. Even though Princess Winfred was beautiful, there was something about the way Queen Godgifu looked at him which left him intrigued. The two Kings were deeply involved in matters of business.

King Charles said bluntly, “It’s no secret that my kingdom is smaller than yours but I’d like to think that we still have something important to offer.”

King Oswald nodded, “I see you as an important ally. Together our armies could defend our lands against a larger kingdom.”

“And, let’s not forget the impending threat of the Vikings that have raided a few lands not far from here. It’s only a matter of time before they set their sights elsewhere,” offered Bishop Agyfen.

“You are right, Father Agyfen. Those heathens kill without discrimination, our women, and desecrated our holy places with vile behavior,” said King Oswald.

“I heard from one of our slaves that has family near one of the first places that the Northmen raided, that they were the size of giants, that eyes were wild, and they could kill a man with their bare hands with very little effort,” said Darleen with amazement.

“Did she also say that these men could breathe fire, float on air, and withstand the sword's edge without spilling a drop of blood?” Prince Oswald joked.

Queen Godgifu chuckled, “Please excuse our niece—”

“But it’s true. I’m only stating what I've heard.”

“Maybe there is some truth to what Lady Darleen has said,” said Prince Liam, “I would like to know more about these men. I’m sure a day will come when we will all have to defend our lands against these tyrants.”

“You’re right brother,” Prince Oswald said, “please Lady Darleen tell us more.”

She was about to but Queen Godgifu eyed her. Darleen sighed, "Perhaps later," Darleen said to Liam.

"Prince Oswald, you and Princess Winfred should go for a walk and get to know each other better," said Queen Godgifu. She was happy to stop Darleen from finishing that insane story that only grew with more details every time she recounted it.

He nodded, “That is a great idea.” He stood, “Princess Winfred would you accompany me for a walk around the castle?”

She nodded and then they went for a walk. Two sets of footsteps sounded as they strolled down a corridor and ended up in a library, “Do you enjoy reading?” he asked her.

“Yes, of course. Although, lately, I haven’t had much time to indulge in any good books.”

“Who do you read...I mean, when you find the time?”

She smiled, “His name is Joaquin Andre Moreira Navarro.”

His head tilted, “That’s some name. Is he Spanish?”

“No, Portuguese.”

“You can read Portuguese?”

She chuckled, “You seem shocked.”

“More like intrigued.”

“My mother met him years ago in Rome. She became fascinated with his accounts of his many travels. He’s been to the lands in Africa, Spain, Ireland, and other places. I even heard that he married a woman from Africa.”

Prince Oswald smiled, “He sounds fascinating. I can only hope that a man such as myself with very little travel experience can hold your attention.”

She smiled and then chuckled, “Are you truly interested in holding my attention?”

“If you are to be my wife, I should want your attention.”

She nodded, “We don’t have to pretend Prince Oswald.”

His eyes focused on the seriousness of her expression as she spoke.

“Our fathers are doing what they think is best to maintain control over their lands which will one day become our lands. This alliance...you and I marrying is a way to strengthen their forces. We are being used to further our fathers’ interests.”

“Are our fathers’ interests not our own?”

“They are indeed entwined.”

He stepped closer to her and stared into her eyes, “Then we understand what we must do?”

She nodded, “I will marry you. I shall be a good and dutiful wife. I will bear your children...no more than three.”

He smiled, “That’s a good number.”

“I only ask that you respect me. Don’t embarrass me. I will protect what we have with my life.”

The idea of marriage was daunting at first but after speaking with Princess Winfred, things didn’t feel as heavy. Her eyes begged for a kiss. Just as he was about to lean in, he paused. His mind flashed to Abigale. “What is it?” The Princess asked.

He shook his head, “Nothing. I can’t wait to have you as my wife.” His lips touched hers. She smiled. It was her first kiss. There was a knock. The door opened. The two queens stood side-by-side, “It’s time for bed,” said Queen Godgifu to her stepdaughter.

Princess Winfred stepped away from her future husband, “Good night. I pray that God fills your mind with pleasant dreams.”

He smiled, “Good night, Princess.” He watched as she made her way to the door. His mother showed her the way. For a moment, Queen Godgifu stood in the doorway sizing him up. He didn’t know what to make of it.

“Good night, Prince Oswald.”

“Good night, Queen Godgifu.”

*****

Everyone was tucked away in their quarters ready for slumber. Queen Godgifu lay next to her husband. “Do you still think we should ride to Winchester?” he asked.

“I spoke with Winfred; she seems to like Prince Oswald.”

“Like? Who cares if she likes him? I’m trying to do what’s best for my people.”

She sighed, “I know. But why ride all the way there? I heard King Edwin’s son is not as interested in women as he should be.”

He scoffed, “Still.” He shook his head. Decisions have to be made.” King Edwin’s kingdom was larger than both his and King Oswald’s. An alliance with a larger kingdom might prove to be better for him in the long run.

She rubbed his chest and slid on top of him. She felt him grow. Her hands touched it. She fed it into her center and he groaned. Soon her hips were in motion. He panted and grunted as he filled her center. She leaned over to kiss his mouth.

She rolled off him and lay back. She knew in moments; he’d be snoring so loud the walls would rattle. “Zzzzzzzz,” sounded as his chest rose and fell. With each passing second the sound grew louder. She poked him and he didn’t move.

With a deep breath, she left the bed and found herself lurking in the halls in search of dessert. King Charles had his moments in the bedroom but a younger man would surely give her what she craved.

She found his door, pushed it open, and saw him lying in bed without his shirt. He sat up, “Queen Godgifu?”

“Are you surprised to see me?” she questioned seductively as she approached his bed.

“I am?”

She stood by his bedside. He stood too and looked down into her eyes. She studied his chest, “King Charles was considering offering his daughter to King Edwin’s son.”

“Winchester?”

“Yes. He plans to ride there tomorrow.”

“But why? I thought—”

Her finger caressed the muscles on his chest, “This is all about the leverage of power. How he can keep it and gain more of it.”

Prince Oswald nodded, “I see. So, all of this was for nothing?”

“I wouldn’t say that exactly.” Her hand caressed his chest, “My husband loves me a great deal. He’s that way. Rough on the exterior but his heart is mine. He’ll listen to me. I love my stepdaughter. I want her to have some semblance of happiness. I don’t think King Edwin’s son will give her that.”

“And you think I can?”

“I know you will. I just need a reason to convince my husband not to ride to Winchester.”

“We probably shouldn’t.”

Her hand eased down and found him stiff, “But you want to. Do it for your kingdom.”

“Yes,” he agreed as he spun her around and lifted her gown. He pressed his way inside and began a vigorous stroke. Her eyes rolled as she savored his might. Queen Godgifu would be a useful ally, he thought.

His strokes soften slightly. He felt her body shudder. He gasped and released. It was done.

*****

When morning arrived, it was customary for Prince Liam to wake early. He loved to go for a walk outside of the castle before eating. As he opened his door, his eyes widened when he saw Queen Godgifu leaving his brother’s room.

He huffed and waited until she was no longer in sight. Once she was no longer in sight, he stomped down to his brother’s room and swung open the door.

Price Oswald eyed him, “Well, good morning, brother.”

“What on earth are you doing Oswald?” he questioned with nostrils flared.

Oswald played innocent, “What?”

“Don’t play games. I saw Queen Godgifu leaving your room just moments ago.”

He sighed, “I can’t deny it. Yes. It was for the kingdom. King Charles was going to offer Winfred’s hand in marriage to the kingdom in Winchester. If they ally, where would that leave us?”

Prince Liam huffed. Oswald placed his hands on Liam’s shoulders, “As you can see, I did it for us. I am just as dedicated to defending our kingdom.”

Liam understood but he didn’t like it. “Still, how on earth will you manage three women? Lord knows one woman is difficult enough.”

Oswald sighed, “I’ll do what has to be done.”

“You need to break it off with Abigale. Release her. You’ll never be able to marry her.”

Oswald’s heart cracked. His brother was right, “I’ll go see her in a few days. I’ll end it.”

*******

Scandinavia

Spring had arrived. The air was crisp and everything was in bloom but she knew in time, her master would have to board his ships with a crew to visit an important Jarl in Kattegat. She had heard Jarl Sigurd speak with his men about the journey.

Her heart was heavy. She had to seek guidance from the Seer. Early that morning, she walked through the woods. She saw the hut where the Seer named Astrid lived. Outside of the hut were all sorts of symbols, bones, and other items that made the place look creepy and mystic.

Yana’s religion taught her not to dabble in such things but she was far from her homeland and far from the teachings of her faith. Even still, she knew of people who had such gifts. People who could foresee things. Dealing with those individuals was usually considered taboo, yet Yana had questions.

She stood outside of the hut contemplating. She almost turned away when the door opened and there was Astrid. Her body was slender, her hair almost white as a cloud in messy dread locs. Her eyes were icy blue, “I knew you’d come sooner or later, enter,” she said to Yana.

She was hesitant at first. Then her feet carried her over the threshold. She looked around. The room was dark with the glow of only a few candles. Astrid motioned with her hand for Yana to sit. Slowly her body lowered onto a stool.

Astrid smiled, “Why have you come?”

Yana shrugged, “I don’t know why I’m here,” she replied with embarrassment.

Astrid smiled, “I’ve had several dreams about you.”

“Have you?”

She nodded, “Ask your question.”

“You told Jarl Sigurd that he would marry a woman that sees him before he sees her. I want to know what that means.”

She chuckled for several seconds and paused, “Jarl Sigurd will marry a woman that sees him before he sees himself. A woman who sees his heart. She will understand him completely.”

Yana smiled. Astrid leaned forward, “You want to know if that woman, is you?”

Yana waited anxiously. Did she dare ask? She nodded. Astrid smiled devilishly. “You will marry Jarl Sigurd. You will do many foolish things. But you will never have his heart.”

Astrid held out her hand. Yana reached inside her coin purse and gave Astrid a few coins before leaving the hut. Part of her was happy as her mind replayed The Seer’s words. Then her heart sank when she realized that she wouldn’t have his heart...ever? That couldn’t be right, she thought. Surely if he married her, he’d eventually fall in love with her. Who else was there for him to love?

She pushed that miserable thought down into the deepest recess of her mind. She had the answer she wanted. Jarl Sigurd was hers. The man she loved would release her from service and marry her.

When she made it back to her quarters, Mary was up, “Where did you go?” she asked with curiosity.

“Oh, just for a walk.”

Mary eyed her suspiciously, “Why are you being obscure?” Mary asked.

Yana huffed, “I have no reason to be obscure.”

Mary continued to watch Yana until Yana left their room and went to her duties at the great hall of Jarl Sigurd.

*****

North Umbria

Just before the morning meal, Prince Oswald was met in the corridor just before the dining hall by King Charles, “I was just telling your father and mother that we look forward to the wedding here in two weeks. You will make a fine son-in-law.”

Prince Oswald smiled as he received the embrace from the King. He saw Queen Godgifu walking up with his mother. They shared a look of understanding.

After breakfast, after conversations were had, it was time for Prince Oswald to say farewell to his future bride. They were outside. He held her hand and smiled, “It has been a pleasure.”

She smiled, “It has. In two weeks, I’ll be your wife.”

He nodded. Arledge stood by the carriage door. He watched Winfred interact with Oswald. Darleen held out her hand, “Arledge?” she said as she waited for him to help her up.

“Yes, my apologies Lady Darleen,” he replied as he assisted her onto the carriage. Finally, Winfred left Oswald where he stood. As she stepped to the carriage, Arledge’s eyes followed her. He held out his hand, “Princess Winfred.”

She smiled with her eyes, “Thank you, Arledge.”

The door was closed. Arledge nodded to the prince and went to his station to navigate his passengers back safely to their destinations.

*****

The Kingdom of Mercia

After the long journey home and things were settled, Princess Winfred found herself alone with her cousin Darleen and her stepmother, Queen Godgifu. The queen’s hair was down, and even though she was nearly the same age as the other ladies, she carried herself as if she had lived decades before they were even a thought.

“So, Winfred, tell me, what do you think of your future husband?” Queen Godgifu asked as she sipped on a goblet of wine.

She sighed, “Surely, he seemed nice enough. But I do not love him.”

Queen Godgifu nodded, “Women like us don’t marry for love. That is for common people. We marry to form alliances.”

“But why does it have to be that way?”

“It just is.”

“I wouldn’t mind marrying to ally. Anything to help our kingdom, I’d do it without question,” said Darleen proudly.

They both looked at her for a moment. Princess Winfred spoke, “You don’t mean anything.”

Darleen sat with the idea in her head and then she confirmed, “Anything.”

“I love the both of you as if you were my sisters. I promise to always look out for your interests. Trust me Winfred, you may not love Oswald now but you are making the right choice.”

“I’d love to marry Prince Liam,” said Darleen, “I know my father was not a King but I am from a royal family. That should count for something.”

The queen nodded, “In time, we will see.”

Lady Darleen smiled inside. She knew if anyone could get something done, it was Queen Godgifu. She couldn’t stop thinking about Prince Liam since her eyes rested on him. After the dinner, they spoke for an extensive amount of time as he asked her questions about the Northmen and all that she had heard.

******

The castle was quiet. She had laid in bed long enough thinking about the many ways she wanted a man to please her. She would be married in two weeks. But she couldn’t evict thoughts of Arledge. His smile was everything.

She left her bed and crept outside of the castle. It was dark. The ground was slightly damp from the rain that poured earlier. Yet, there she was near the stables. The place where a little house was not far from the horses. She tapped on the door. Arledge stood looking at her wearing a dark hooded cloak when it opened. He hesitated, “Princess—”

She placed her finger on his lips, “Call me Winfred. It’s just us.”

“Come inside.” He stepped back and closed the door. She studied his strong muscular body. He was in shape from all the work he did for her family around the castle.

She peeled off the hood. he saw her pretty face. It was so youthful and fair. Her lips were peach. He watched as she untried the cloak and watched it fall to the wooden floor. Her breasts were so plump under her white gown. He could see her hardened nipples. This caused his nature to rise. So many thoughts paraded through his mind.

“I am leaving in two weeks. I’ll be married. I won’t see you as much or hardly ever.”

The reminder instantly stung his heart, “I know.”

“I do not love him.”

Arledge stepped closer to her. His fingers slipped through her long soft hair, “Whom do you love?”

A soft smile appeared on her face, “I’ve always loved you.”

His lips met hers. She tasted his tongue. Her skin was on fire. She wanted everything he had. She felt his grip on her soft ass. He squeezed as they kissed passionately. She undid his pants; they fell to his ankles and he stepped out of them as he lifted her and lay her on the bed. Slowly, his tip was at her entrance. He looked into her eyes and pressed his way into her paradise.

She grunted at first. Her eyes watered, and she couldn’t help but moan after several more strokes. This was it. This is what her cousin had described. The feeling of floating and falling all at once. Her temples throbbed. Her body shook with delight. She could have died and everything would have been perfect.

His semen spilled into her as they kissed. They were lost in the moment making confessions of their love when they heard a sound outside. He stopped. Her eyes widened, “What was that?” she asked with great concern.

“I do not know,” he responded as he left the bed. He slid into a pair of pants and went to the door. He looked around. He didn’t see anything. When he turned around, he saw Winfred putting on her cloak, “I should get back to my room before morning.”

He walked over to her, and their mouths touched, “When can I see you again?”

She smiled, “I’ll come to see you every night until I leave.”

He smiled.