Chapter 1

Miranda sits in her dimly lit room, the sun just beginning to shine through

the small window. She brushes out her long raven colored hair. She gazes at

the long white dress hanging on a hook near a small closet. She can smell

the smoke from the small fireplace mixed with the eggs and ham her mother is

cooking. She thinks about what her day will entale. her grand wedding, she

anticipates the event even though it was arranged so that her family could

keep their home. Imagine the king fancying her in such a way. King

Mark...how she thinks of his image. His deep green eyes full of expression,

his long red hair. Sitting atop his black percheron horse, he seems to gleem

in the sunlight as the light hits his silver armour. In just a few hours she

will go from a simple peasant girl to the queen of these lands. Her family

will share in wealth that they dare not dream of. As part of the agreement,

the king has granted her family more land and a grand house to be built.

Suddenly the door opens interupting her thoughts. She turns to see her

mother standing there smiling. "You look happy." She says as she walks into

the room and closes the door. "We must get you ready, the king will be

expecting us soon." She adds as she picks up a corset from the bed. "Well,

let's get me laced up then. We do not want to upset the king." Miranda

replies nervously. "Don't fear him, my daughter. He is a good man, and a

good king." "Mother, I am more afraid of being a disappointment to him. I am

afraid of tonight...I know he will expect me to be a dutiful wife." "You

have nothing to fear, now come over anf here and grab a hold of something."

She says.

Miranda walks over and holds the corset in place over her camisole. Her

mother tightens it, and then ties it securely. Miranda walks over and

carefull takes the white dress off the hanger and slips into it. Her mother

buttons all the tiny buttons in the back, "I knew this would look beautiful

on you." She says. "Was it yours?" "No, dear. The king had it made for you.

It is his gift." "I still don't know why King Mark would want a girl like

me. He could have picked from all the princesses in the realm...why me?"

Miranda asks. "I am not sure, but he did." She replies smiling.

Miranda walks back over to the small vanity and sits down. "I want to look

my best for him, let's do my hair up in curls." Miranda suggests. Her mother

begins as Miranda goes back into her deep thoughts of her future groom.

She is taken from her thoughts at the sounds of many hoof beats and the

sound of a heavy carriage. "He is here!" She squeals. She gets up from the

small chair and walks to the window, she smiles as she sees him get out of

the carriage and walk to the door. Her heart races as she peers on the best

looking man in all of Scotland.

She finds her shoes and slips them on quickly as she hears a loud knocking

on the door. She stands at her doorway as her father opens the front door.

He bows his head. "Welcome, your majesty." He says allowing him inside.

"Please we are to be family, just relax." King Mark says. "Is my bride

ready?" He asks.

"Yes, my lord. I will bring her down."

Miranda follows her mother down the narrow creaking staircase. He looks at

her and gasps. "You are more beautiful than I had imagined." He says taking

her hand and kissing it lightly. Miranda blushes at the attention given to

her by the ruler of their lands, leader of their armies. "Thank you, my

lord." She says. "Call me Mark." He says winking at her.

"I have brought a coach along for you and your mother and the rest of your

family. Your father will ride with me, I have some things to discuss with

him. I expect everyone is ready." He says.

"Yes, everything I am bringing has already been taken to the castle." She

replies.

"very well, the next time I see you, will be at the altar. I look forward to

making you my wife and queen of these lands." He says as he opens the door

for her.

Chapter 2

Miranda watches out the carriage window as they make the trip to the castle.

"Here we almost forgot this." Her mother says as she puts a white veil over

her head, and places a silver circlet over it. Miranda pulls the material

out of her face, and smiles. "I guess my life is about to change." "When we

get to the castle the veil must be covering your face, the people can't see

thier queen until the ceremony."

They start to see more people standing at the side of the road, Miranda

replaces her veil over her head. Her stomach turns in knots and her heart

races. "Is it possible to be in love with someone if you don't know them?"

She asks. Her mother looks at her and smiles, "Only your heart can answer

that for you."

The terrain changes into cobblestone and Miranda falls short of breathe. Her

two younger sisters look at her and smile. "Randa I know you will be happy."

Her younger sister Abigail says. "After all he is...the king of Scotland."

Her other sister Mary says. "Does that make him our brother?" Tristan her

younger brother asks. "In a way, he will be your brother-in-law. But before

anything else he is...your king." Mirnada says.

The carriage stops and a man stands and opens the door. Miranda is greeted

by a young girl, "My Lady Miranda I am Isabelle I am your lady in waiting. I

will show you and your family where to wait until the ceremony. King Mark is

very excited." She says waiting for Miranda to exit the carriage.

Miranda, her mother, and younger siblings follow Isabelle inside the castle

and into a huge room. As they get inside another young girl, greets them

and offers food and drink. She whispers something into Isabelle's ear. "Ok,

mother, sisters and brother follow Tamara." Isabelle says.

After her family leaves, Miranda loosk at Isabelle. "Who was that girl?"

"That is Tamara, she is your other lady in waiting. We are your servants and

travel companions. The wedding will begin soon, is there anything that you

wish?" She asks.

"I am not accustomed to having servants, I am very independant." She

replies.

"We are here in an assistant compacity really. We help you to dress, and

fetch anything you desire. Plus travel with you, a queen never travels

alone."

"This is gonna take some getting used to." Miranda says.

The door opens and Tamara is standing there, "Everyone is in place, King

Mark awaits."

"Come, Miranda your wedding is about to begin." Isabelle says waiting for

Miranda to stand. Miranda gets up and Isabelle and Tamara walk behind her.

She walks to a set of open doors, there sits the entire population of the

castle. Suddenly Isabelle and Tamara find a seat and organ music plays the

wedding march. Miranda's father rises and takes her arm. He walks her the

rest of the way to the altar. He sits back down as he releases his eldest

daughter to marriage.

The priest looks down at his bible, "Who gives this woman to this man?" he

asks. Miranda's father stands, "Her mother and I do." He says then sits back

down. "Do you Miranda take this man, King Mark Calaway to be your husband.

Do you promise to keep him in sickness and health, for richer or poorer? As

long as you both shall live?" Miranda looks up at her groom, "I do." She

replies. "Do you king Mark take Miranda to be your wife, in sickness and

health, for richer or poorer? For as long as you both shall live?" "I do."

He replies. "You may kiss your bride." King mark lift the veil and kisses

Miranda, his toungue slightly touches the tip of hers. He breaks the kiss,

leaving her almost breathless. He turns her around, "May I present my

bride...Queen Miranda." He says happily. "Come we have one more

presentation." He leads her to a balcony, they stand there and there is a

sea of people, they cheer and clap when they see the pair. "My dear people,

here is your Queen Miranda." They clap their hands as the pair leaves and

walk back into the chapel.

"Come now, there is a party waiting." He says as he escorts his new queen

into the great hall for a feast.

Chapter 3

As King Mark and Queen Miranda walk into the room, the music stops playing

everyone bows to them. King Mark escorts his bride to the end of the room

where there are two large thrones. he leads her there, they turn and look at

their family, friends, and noblemen.

"I thought this was a party? Please enjoy yourselves." King Mark says

grinning. King Mark and Queen Miranda sit down and the party resumes.

Miranda looks around the room, she sees her mother and father laughing and

smiling. She looks at her new husband, "Pardon me, my Lord. But who is that

large man over there by himself? He looks peculiar."

King Mark frowns a little. "Please call me Mark, I am your husband. That is

my brother, Kane."

"Oh, yes. Prince Kane. I have heard of him." She replies.

"He is leader of my armies."

"Why does he cover his face? I am sure he is as handsome as you, my

husband."

"When we were children, he was in an accident. We were riding our horses,

probably running them to hard and fast. Kane's horse stumbled on some rocks,

he flew over the horse's head and landed on the rocks below. The scars never

healed, and he has covered his face ever since." He replies.

They sit and listen to the music and watch the people dancing in silence for

a few moments. Miranda places her hand over his, "I wish to speak with my

mother, is that alright?"

Mark looks at her, "Of course, Enjoy yourself. I might want a dance with my

bride though." He replies lifting her hand to his lips and kisses it gently.

Miranda melts on the inside from his touch as she stands. Suddnely the music

stops, and the people all look to her her and bow. Her heart races, as she

looks around at these people that wouldn't have given her a second thought

yesterday. "Please continue." She says as she makes her way to where her

parents are sitting.

She grabs her mother by the arm, "Mother, I wish to speak with you...in

private." She says rather frantically. "Sure, Miranda. What on earth is

wrong?" She asks.

As they near the door, a guard opens it for them, Miranda shakes her head.

"Thank you." She says to the man. "Your very welcome, M' Lady." He says as

she walks through with her mother.

"That is what is wrong...I may never get used to that! Yesterday I was a

poor peasant girl, a nobleman wouldn't even lower himself to speak to

me...now they are bowing at my feet." She says.

"Miranda, you married the king of Scotland. What did you think? These are

your people now, you must always remember where you came from...you must

never forget about your people. Promise me something, that you will enjoy

yourself. You are gettign the life that your father and I always dreamed you

would. You won't have to raise your children in poverty. They won't have to

have the livestock in the house so they don't freeze. They will never wonder

where their next meal is coming from, and they will grow to run Scotland.

King Mark is a good man, he is good to his people."

"I guess I am just afraid, I have never been away from you and Papa for a

night and now...I am the Queen of Scotland." Miranda says panic taking over

her voice. The door opens suddenly. Out walks King Mark. Miranda's mother

bows to him, "I am missing my bride, is everything alright?" He asks. "Yes,

My Lord. She is just nervous is all."

King takes her hand and drops to one knee, "Miranda I promise to take care

of you, I wish to dance with my wife, now." He says so sweetly. The sound of

his voice, the way his crimson hair frames his face just melts her heart.

"Yes, husband." She replies as he gets to his feet. He leads her inside

along with her mother.

"King Mark, may I speak with you?" her mother says.

"Certianly, Katherine." He replies.

"Pardon my boldness, but Randa is overwhelmed by all of this. She loves

you...she has been smitten with you for a few years. Don't doubt that for a

second, but she is scared to death of all of the attention. She isn't sure

how to act, or what is proper and what isn't." Katherine says.



"I will do my best to make sure she feels at home." He replies, then walks

on to catch up with his wife. The rest of the people sit down, they eat and

drink, watching the King and Queen dance. Miranda looks around then loosk up

into his emerald eyes. "I promise to do my best to be a good wife to

you...and a good queen to Scotland." She says.

Mark smiles and leans down to kiss her. "I know you will."

The tone of the music changes and people get up and dance and resume

partying. Miranda sees a large man standing beside Mark. "Excuse me, may I

cut in?" The gruffy voice says. Mark turns and smiles, recognizing his

brother's voice. "Miranda please meet, Prince Kane." Mark says. "I am

honored to meet you Prince Kane." She says.

Mark moves aside and allows his brother to dance with his new sister-in-law.

"I hear you command our armies." Miranda says.

"Yes, My Lady. I am the first one there and the last to leave battle. I have

no wife or children to worry for me. I enjoy protecting our borders."

"Don't you want a family?" She asks.

"No woman would want me, it's better that way."

"Hmmm Prince Kane. I remember hearing stories about you. A few years ago I

was listening to the older girls talking about nobles they thought were

cute, and they were day dreaming. Your name came up many times, you are very

popular with the common people." She says.

"You are too kind, My Lady." He replies as the song ends.

He bows to her, "Thank you for the dance. Welcome to the family, may you and

my brother be blessed with many sons." He says and then walks away.

Chapter 4

With all the guests gone to their own homes, the castle seems quiet and

calm. Miranda walks down the halls, she finds her sitting room. Walking

inside she finds her ladies in wating Isabelle and Tamara. "Good evening My

Lady, can we get you anything before we go to bed?" Isablle says as her and

Tamara stand and curtsie. "Ok, I need to get this out. I am not used to

servants, I am accustomed to dressing myself and doing things for myself."

She says. "I apologize, My Lady I meant no disrespect." Miranda just looks

at her and shakes her head. "I am not angry with you. I just wish to get

ready for bed, you may retire for the night." She says dismissing the girls.

They leave her, as Miranda walks to a door and opens it. She gasps as she

looks inside and has never seen so many garments for just one person.

Dresses of every color and style. She finds a white, silky nightgown.

Shedding her wedding dress, her corset and other trappings of the day. She

slips the nightgown over head and pulls on a matching robe. Tying it shut

she walks across the floor and opens the door slowly leading to the bedroom

she is to share with King Mark.

She finds him laying on the bed, covered by a thick velvet quilt to the

waist. His Cest bare, only his long red hair draping past his broad

shoulders. His Kilt lays over a chair, his boots next to it. He looks up

from some papers and smiles. "I had hoped you would come to me tonight." He

says. She looks at him confused. "Is this not where I sleep? We are married

I just assumed we would share a bed." She says. "Yes, of course. Sometimes

with marriages such as ours, man and wife don't share the same room." He

replies. Miranda just looks at him and smiles, "I am your wife, and as such

I will sleep in here with my husband...King or not." She says confidently.

King Mark just looks at her and grins.

Miranda takes off the robe and lays it over the same chair where his kilt

lays. She notices a large sword laying on a stand connected the wall. "Is

this it? The sword that won our freedom from the english?" She asks suddnely

feeling proud to be married to the man who slayed the tyrant english lord.

"Yes, well it helped. it wasn't just me out there. Kane was there he fought

valiantly beside me. All of our armies were there. Scotland won it's

freedom. But that is the sword that peirced the heart of that tyrant." He

replies proudly that his wife was taking an interest in him.

"I was a child when that war ended, my uncle he was my mother's brother

fought in that war. Unfortunatly he didn't come back home to us. But I know

he fought bravely...he loved Scotland so much." She replies.

"What was his name?"

"Roderick McGladery."

"I remember him, he was a very proud man, he fought bravely." Mark replies

as Miranda pulls back the heavy quilt and climbs into bed with him.

First she lays prone, pulling the blanket to her neck while her stomach

turns flips. Suddenly she pushes them back down, and rolls over. She lay her

head on his chest, he lays his arm over her and twirls her hair around his

finger.



"I am afraid husband, I don't know what to do." She says.

"Don't worry."

"I don't wish to spoil your wedding night, I know this was arranged...but I

am your wife and will be dutiful." She says.

"I don't want you to make love to me, out of duty...I want you to desire

me." He says his voice dripping with pain.

"I am sorry, I didn't mean it that way, trust me I desire you. I have been

in love with you for years." She replies kissing his chest, and on down to

his rock hard muscled stomach. Mark groans with delight as he hasn't had a

woman's touch in so long.

Mark gently places Miranda on her back, he pulls the quilt back and lifts

her nightgown. Gently slipping it over her head, he just stares at her

beauty. He sheds his own clothes, she moves her legs apart for him and he

slides his body between them. He kises her neck, gently nibbling her, he

moves to her ample breast licking around her nipple, then to the other one.

She can feel his growing manhood pressing against her. He lifts his head and

claims her lips, lustfully. his toungue finds hers as they intertwine. He

positions himself at her entrance, and gently pushes himself into her slick

center.

Miranda holds her breath as she feels as though she might rip in half from

his size. As she gets used to him, her hips meet his with every movement. he

rocks his hips harder and harder, she soaks his tool as she moans loudly

with pleasure. He puts his arms behind her and rolls her over, so that she

is sitting on top of him. She bobs up and down on him as he rolls his thumb

and index finger around her firm nipples, as he expels his seed into her.

She slows down to catch her breath. She looks into his green eyes and

smiles, then rolls off of him. She falls asleep in his arms, him watching

her sleep.

Chapter 5

"My Lady, King Mark would like to see you." Isabelle says rushing into

Miranda's sitting room. Miranda looks away from the window. "Where is he?"

She asks. "He awaits you in the great hall." Isabelle replies. "Thank you."

She says leaving the room.

Miranda makes her way to the great hall, she walks in and sees her husband

sitting at a table with a few men wearing kilts and plate mail armour on

their chests, they wear metal guards over their legs covering their boots.

Swords at their waist. "And there she is, my beautiful wife." He says

standing to pull out a chair for her. The other men also stand, and bow

their heads. As soon as she sits down, they also do. "Miranda I want you to

meet some of my best men. Of course you have met my brother, Prince Kane.

These other men are knights, in charge of keeping the castle safe."

"My Lady, My sword shall protect you and Scotland. My name is Kronus." A

tall dark haired man says and then sits down.

"I am Shawn, and my sword protects you as well as Scotland, My Lady." Says a

shorter man with dark blonde hair.

"I am honored to meet you all." Miranda says.

"The honor is ours, Queen Miranda." Shawn says.

"Was that what you wanted, husband?" She asks.

"Yes, I will see you in awhile." Mark says dismissing his wife.

She walks over and kisses him, "I have a surprise for you tonight...in our

bed." She whispers in his ear. "Kilts don't hide things well...ya know." He

replies lustfully.

Miranda leaves the room and heads for the main door. She walks out into a

courtyard, Isabelle spots her and goes outside also. As Miranda walks about

she finds common people doing work around the castle. She finds a

blacksmith, who is fashioning horse shoes. he sees her, and bows his head.

She walks over to him, "Excuse me, but could you tell me where the stables

are?" She asks. The man smiles, "Just over there, that big building by the

fence, your majesty." he replies. "Thank you, you don't have to be so

formal...I am not different than you." She replies. "But, you are. You are

the queen, King Mark would be disappointed if I didn't show his Queen the

same respect I would show him." He says. "Please, kind sir. What is your

name?" The blacksmith looks at her, "Shane, My Lady." he replies. "Thank you

, Shane." Miranda says and then walks towards the stables.

"My Lady where are you going?" Isabelle asks.

"I wish to go for a ride."

"On a horse?" Isabelle asks.

"Yes, is that a problem?"

"Begging your pardon, but the Queen of Scotland doesn't just ride a horse."

"Well, she does now. I rode horses everyday of my life and I am not about to

stop now...Queen of Scotland or not."

"My Lady they are all war horses in there."

"Good, that is what I am used to. Since I was a little girl my father was

teaching me about horses, I am very good with them." Miranda says.

They walk inside the stable, Miranda spots a solid black percheron stallion.

"I want that one." She says. "My Lady...That is the King's horse...nobody

rides him." Miranda keeps walking she spots another horse almost the same

but this one has white legs and a white star on its head. "That one is the

Prince's horse."

A young man walks inside, "Queen Miranda, the King has chosen this horse for

you." He says pointing to a solid black percheron mare. The only other color

is a white blaze down her face. "The king learned that you love horses, so

he bought this horse for you. Shall I get her ready for ya?" He asks. "Yes,

Please. And none of that side saddle stuff either...I ride in an english

saddle." She says. Miranda turns to Isabelle, "Fetch me my black cloak

please." "Yes, My Lady." She replies and turns. "Are you coming with me?"

She asks.

"Yes,"

"Good, now hurry back." Miranda says.

The stable boy grins as he brushes dwon the animal. "What is your name?" She

asks. "I am samuel. My Lady. I have seen you before, but that was before you

were queen." He replies. "Samuel, you know my brother Tristan don't you?"

She asks. "Yes, my younger brother is friends with him." "Well I am happy to

have met you, Samuel." She replies.

Isabelle returns with miranda's cloak and finds a horse of her own to ride.

She saddles it, and bridles it. By the time she is finished Miranda has

mounted her horse. "Samuel, what is the horse's name?" He smiles, "Thunder,

she was named that because when she runs it sounds like thunder. Enjoy, My

lady." He says as they turn and leave.

Chapter 6

Miranda directs her horse into an open field. She urges her on, the horse

starts to gallop. She smiles, and urges the animal to move faster. The horse

takes off running Miranda feels as though she is floating. Is what she

doesn't know is that the king watches her from the castle. He smiles to

himself as she enjoys her gift. His smile fades as she leaves the borders of

the castle property and heads towards the road. "Damn it!" He exclaims. He

stalks to the hallway and finds his brother. Kane you must go and see to the

queen. She has left our property." He says. "I will follow her, I will bring

you back your bride safe and sound." he says leaving.

Prince Kane lumbers to the stable and gets his horse ready. He mounts his

giant steed, and digs his heels into him. The animal carries him at an

infernal speed. He slows down as he sees the Queen and Isabelle.

"My Lady, we are coming into town. You should put up your hood. The people

will be shocked to see you in town riding on a horse." She says.

Miranda puts the hood up, "I am not about to hide away in that castle." She

grumbles under her breath.

They ride to a modest house, Miranda stops the horse and she dismounts and

ties her to a post. "Come Isabelle, this is my father's house." She says.

Isabelle obeys her and ties her horse to the same post and follows the queen

inside.

"Mother, Papa!" She greets walking around.

Her mother walks around a corner, carrying a basket of laundry. "Randa!" She

says excitedly. "What on earth are you doing here?" She asks.

"I missed everyone." She replies.

She follows her mother outside, "Can I help you with that?" She asks.

"Sure, if you like. I don't think hanging laundry on the line is befitting a

queen." She says.

"Mother, you know I am not like that."

They hear the door shut, "Katherine...who does that huge black horse belong

to?" Her father says as he walks through the house.

Miranda looks at her mother and smiles, she runs into the house, "Papa!" She

says as she throws her arms around her father. "She is mine, her name is

Thunder. A gift from the King." She says. "Well he can sure pick a horse

can't he. That is a beautiful animal." He replies.

Miranda walks back outside to find the laundry hung out, "I am sorry,

Mother." She says.

"That's alright, Isabelle here helped me." She replies.

"You girls care for a bit of lunch?" Katherine asks.

"Sure, I am famished."

Her father grins and smacks her in the arm, "Don't they feed you in that

castle? If that King isn't treating my baby girl right, I might have to have

a talk with him." He says smirking. "Papa, he treats me fine."

"Randa?"

Miranda turns to see her younger sister Abigail. She smiles and hugs the

girl that is only 2 years younger than she.

"Did you bring the prince with you?" She asks.

"No, Prince Kane has better things to do than follow me around."

"I remember him from the party...he is very handsome." Abigail says.

"Yeah Abby won't stop talking about...Prince Kane." Mary says.

"Would you like to meet him?" Miranda asks.

"Yes, but I am not worthy of a prince."

"Abby, you are worthy of the world. Look at me...I am married to King Mark.

I went from simple peasant girl to Queen of Scotland all in one day. Don't

ever doubt yourself."

"What is he like?"

"He is nice, very tall. A very quiet man, and he commands Scotland's

armies...he keeps us safe and ensures our freedom." Miranda replies.

"My Lady, we should go. it will get dark soon. It simply isn't safe for us

then." Isabelle says.

Miranda nods her head, "Please come to see me at the castle." She says as

she hugs her parents. "Abby, I will say hello to Prince Kane for you." She

says as she walks from the room.

They go outside to to mount their horses, Miranda looks out onto the

hillside and sees the afternoon sun shine on something, the silver glints on

Kane's armour. "I think we were followed." She says. "We must hurry back,

The King will have my head if anything happens to you." Isablle says. "I

don't think it would be anything that drastic."

They gallop their horses through town, Miranda forgets to put her hood up

and people in town spot her, they bow and she waves to them. They round a

corner and spot a big black horse with a large man sitting on it. Miranda

grins as she sees Prince Kane. They stop their horses in front of him, "My

husband send you after me?" She asks. "Just keeping you safe, My lady." He

replies. "May I ask, who lives there?" "My family." "I thought my brother

gave your family land." "Yes, he did, my father is building a new house on

it. So they still live on the small farm I grew up on." She replies.

They ride a ways in silence, then Miranda smirks at Kane, "My sister is

sweet on you." She says.

"Which one?"

"Abigail, she thinks you are handsome. She saw you at the wedding, and

watched you at the party."

"I remember her, she is cute, and very young." He replies.

Miranda urges her animal to run, Prince Kane grunts to as he must now keep

up with her. Finally they reach the castle property, Miranda slows Thunder

to walk and hands her over to Samuel. "The King is looking for you, My

Lady." he says. "Thank you, Samuel."

Miranda walks into the castle and is greeted by King Mark. "You had me

worried." He says hugging her.

"I don't know why, you had Kane follow us. We were safe at my parent's

house. Don't worry so much, my king."

Chapter 7

Miranda walks through the castle, mostly just exploring. She hears voices,

and stops to listen as she hears her husband's voice.

"I hear the english are coming, they have been pilaging a few towns. Nobody

has been killed, but several families are without homes. Houses were burned

livestock have been destroyed. our people are farmers, they can't eat if the

english are destroying everything."

"Forgive me, My Lord but these are only rumors, have any of these peopel

came forward and asked for help?" Prince Kane asks.

"Yes, I had a family come to me just yesterday. They told me of the

devesation of their crops, their home was burned to the ground and the

cattle that was next years food was destroyed. They will starve...I am not

about to let one of my fellow scots starve. We fought the english...defeated

them and drove them from our land I will not see our freinds and countrymen

die in vain. I have given this family one of the small cottages near the

forest to stay in until I investigate farther on this matter. Kane I want

you and some of your men to go and see what is going on."

"Where did this happen?"

"Glascow."

"I will return when we have discovered what is going on."

Miranda quickly moves around a corner out of sight, as Kane walks through

the door. He walks past her and out of the castle. He finds Kronus, and

Shawn his two best men. They ride off in a thunderous gallop over the hills.



Miranda almost runs to her rooms, she bursts through the doors. Isabelle

loosk up from some sewing. "My Lady, what is wrong?" "How do I get a letter

to my father?" She frantically asks looking for parchment on her writing

desk. Finding some she dips her quill in an ink well. "I want this letter to

get to my father right away. I don't think I should leave the castle

grounds." She says. "What on earth for? You are completely safe." "No, you

can't vbreath a word of this to anyone. I heard the King and Prince Kane

talking...the english are back." She says. "I will deliver it myself."

Isabelle says.

Miranda writes as fast as she can,

Dear Papa,

Please come to the castle and bring everyone with you. I miss you and Mother

very much. Come and stay as long as you like.

Love,

Miranda

She folds it and removes her ring. Pouring candle wax onto the folded

parchment she places her ring into it, forming her seal.

"Isabelle go and have Samuel drive you there with the carriage. Do not bring

any attention to yourself. I am trusting you with my family." Miranda says.

"Yes, my Lady." She replies tucking the letter into a pocket in her cloak.

"Make sure the king knows nothing of this."

"Yes, My lady. King Mark is wise he will know something is going on."

"Go, hurry. Bring my family with you. If he asks just tell him I sent you."

"Yes, My Lady." She says as she hurries out of the room.

Isabelle runs into King Mark on her way down the stairs. "Whoa, slow down.

Where are you going in such a hurry?"

"An errand for My Lady, Sire." She replies nervously.

"Be careful and come straight back, it isn't safe outside of the castle

walls right now."

"Yes, My Lord." She says as she runs out of the doors.

Isabelle gets to the stables, "Samuel...Samuel! We need a carriage and you

are to escort me to town." Isabelle says.

"I must look after the horses."

"Her Majesty's orders." She says.

"Ok, let me get the horse hitched up and we will go." He replies.

King Mark walks into Miranda's sitting room. He sits down next to her as she

peers out of the window. "So where is Isabelle going in such a hurry. She

said you sent her on an errand." He asks. "I sent her after my family. I

didn't mean to but I overheard you and the Prince talking about Glascow, I

want to ensure my family's safety. You aren't angry are you?"

"No, I am not angry. Who else did you tell?"

"Just Isabelle, I swore her to secrecy."

"I was gonna go myself, but I knew that would worry you. If the english are

coming I want to be here."

"I don't want you to worry, I had Kane and his men check things out."

"If anything happens to him, my sister will be heart broken."

"Why?"

"She likes him."

"I hope him and his men are safe."

Isabelle arrives to the house, she knocks on the door, and then walks in.

She quickly finds Katherine in the kitchen.

"Please excuse my rudeness, but Queen Miranda sent me to give you this."

Isabelle says handing the woman the folded parchment.

Katherine reads the note, "Is there something she isn't saying?"

"I can't say. But you should come to the castle...your whole family."

"If the Queen of Scotland is summoning us then I suppose we better go." She

says.



Walking to the hallway, "Abigail, Mary and Tristan come down here." The

three reamining children ce as they are called, "Yes, Mother?"

"Abby, get your brother and sister into the carriage outside, I am gonna get

your father. We are going to the castle for a visit." She says running out

the back door.

"Liam...come on the Queen has summoned us."

"Look at you...the queen is your daughter."

"Never the less, Randa is the Queen of Scotland too, she must have a

reason." She says pulling on his arm.

He follows her to the waiting carriage. Suddenly the carriage takes off very

quickly. They soon make it to the castle. One of the castle guards meets

them and shows them inside the castle.

Once inside they are met by Tamara, "Come I will show you to Queen Miranda."

They follow her up the stone staircase and into Miranda's sitting room.



"What is going on?"

"I am sorry for the evasiveness but it was neccesary. I overheard that the

english might be destroying farms and towns. I wanted you here where you are

safe."

Liam walks over and hugs his daughter, "You may be our Queen but you are

still my angel."

"I only want to protect Scotland...and my family. If my husband would allow

it...I would put on armour and swing a sword just as he and Prince Kane."

Liam puts his arm around Miranda as Mark walks into the room. Mark extends

his hand, to his father-in-law. "Welcome, please saty as long as you like."

He says.

"Thank you, Sire."

"Please, Liam. Just call me Mark. We are family after all." He says walking

out of the room.

Chapter 8

Miranda paces the hallway waiting for the Prince to return with Kronus and

Shawn. She hears horses and armour clanking. She runs up a stairwell and

peers out over the castle walls, and sees Prince Kane and his men racing

home. She puts her hand to her chest and exhales. She rushes down the stairs

and finds her husband.

"They have returned, husband." She says.

King Mark looks up at her smiles. "Good, Now we will know for sure what is

going on."

As Prince Kane, Kronus, and Shawn walk into the room Miranda hurries outside

into the hallway. "It wasn't the english at all." Kane says.

"Who was it then?"

"Sire, it was the French. King Hunter himself." Kronus says.

"The French! Kane get some patrols together. I want to make sure my country

is safe."

"Yes, right away." He says turning to leave the room. He opens the door and

turns walking down the stone corridor. He hears giggling in a room, walking

towards the sound he hears Miranda talking with her sisters.

"No, Abby I saw him first." Mary says.

"Sisters...stop fighting over the Prince.." Miranda says.

Kane kinda smiles to himself, then he pokes his head in the room. "Ok, I am

going to protect Scotland now...wish me luck." He says as then walks away.

Abby and Mary both run out of the room, "Good Luck Prince Kane we shall miss

you." They shout after him.

Miranda gets up and gets after them, "Now stop it...leave the Prince alone.

He has better things to do than worry about two lusting girls." Miranda

chastises.

"Oh, Randa leave us alone...He so handsome." Mary says.

Just then kane turns around and tilts his head, and then leaves out of the

castle with his men following close behind.

"What was that about?" Kronus asks.

"The queen's sisters are just fawning over the Prince of Scotland." Kane

replies proudly.

"The Queen didn't seem that happy about it." Shawn says.

"Yes, I noticed that." Kronus replies.

Kane turns, "Leave Miranda alone. She was just bickering with her sisters."

The trio ride off to patrol Endinburgh.

Chapter 9

Miranda turns to her sisters, "I won't have you both acting like the town

harlot. You are both noblenow, since I married the King. Show your King soem

resepct by not acting like love sick school girls everytime his brother is

near. The Prince has a job to do...you owe your freedom to him." She says

coldly.

"But Miranda, we are school girls." Mary says.

"You are both 15, as we both now Mother and Papa were married younger than

you are now. You are Ladies of Scotland...act like it." She shouts.

"We are sorry, but he is just so delicious."

Miranda snaps her head around, "Abigail! No, he is not delicious! He is

protector of our country! Just leave the Prince alone...I won't have you

prancing around this palace like Rena Lesnar does in town!"

"Miranda!" Abigail says her eyes welling up with tears.

Miranda turns and looks at her sister. Her expression still filled with

anger.

"I am not a whore! How can you even compare me to her?" She asks sobbing.

"I am sorry. Just please leave the Prince alone and let him do his job." She

says storming from the room.

Miranda walks through the castle, and out the doors. She walks to a grassy

hill, and sits down to think. Hearing the clanking of armour she turns. One

of the royal guards is standing behind her. "I am fine. You can go back

inside the castle." She says.

"I am sorry, your highness but I can not. I am here on the King's orders."

He says.

"I am I not your queen?"

"Yes, your highness you are."

"Do you not follow my command also?"

"My Lady, I would happily die protecting you, I would willingly die

protecting Scotland. But you do not command our armies...the king does." He

replies carefully watching the landscape.

"Fine, I will go inside, since I am not capable of being alone for a

moment." She replies getting up.

She sneers at the young knight as she walks past him and back towards the

castle. She throws open the doors and storms to her suite of rooms. Throwing

herself onto the bed she cries in frustration.

"Are you not happy being my wife?"

Miranda looks up startled, "I love being your wife, when I actually see

you."

He walks over and sits next to her on the bed, Miranda sits up and leans

against his chest. "I heard you and your sisters arguing. And then you strom

outside."

"They were talking of the Prince as if he were some common boy they found

handsome. They showed no respect to him what so ever."

"If anything, they gave him yet another reason to protect us. Kane doesn't

get attention like that often, and think about it. There were two pretty

young girls going on about him. He knows when he returns after securing our

country that he will be a hero to them."

"I know, husband. But you should have heard them." She replies.

"I did hear them, just give them a break."

"Do you have any idea how difficult this is for me? Just a few short months

ago I was common...then I become the Queen of Scotland. I am expected to act

a certian way, carry myself a certian way. If that isn't enough...I am

expected to have servants, I am expected to live a life I know nothing

about. I can't even go outside and gaze upon our beautiful land by myself."

"Miranda it simply is not safe right now." He warns.

Miranda looks up at him, "I can't breathe here. I need to get out of the

castle for awhile."

King Mark looks at her wounded, "I am sorry you are so unhappy."

"No, that isn't what I mean. I wish to travel, maybe go to the sea."

"After Kane returns, and he has determined it safe enough. The french would

relish the idea of capturing our Queen. Your safety is all I am thinking

of."

"Fine, I will stay until he returns." She says feeling defeated.

Chapter 10

The sound of thundering hooves and steel clanking wakes Miranda several

weeks later. She throws open her window to see that Prince Kane has

returned. She throws her robe on and walks into her rooms. She sits walks

over to her closet and picks out a dress to wear, a matching corset and her

stockings.

Isabelle and Tamara enter her room, they curtsie at the sight of her. "My

Lady, the Prince has returned." Tamara says.

"Yes, I know. I am going on a trip if all is safe." She replies happily.

"Yes, King Mark got word yesterday that all is safe. He is sending us with

you...before you get upset. The Queen of Scotland can not travel alone."

Isabelle says.

"I know, and I welcome your company." She replies.

The ladies in waiting smile at Miranda's approval.

Suddenly her doors burst open, she is greeted by her younger sister Mary.

"The Prince is home...I can't wait to see him." She wails.

Miranda smiles, "Well go see to your Prince then."

"But, you said to leave him alone."

"It is fine, now go before he is meeting with the King." Miranda says.

Mary runs out of the room, and walks down the hall. Just as she gets to the

door, Prince Kane walks through with Kronus and Shawn. "My Prince, welcome

home." She says bowing to him.

"There will be a grand party tonight, and I was wondering if you would

accompany me?" He asks.

"Yes, I would love that." She replies almost swooning at the sound of his

voice.

He lowers his head and softly kisses her cheek, and then walks on to meet

with his brother.





"Randa...I need to borrow a dress." Mary comes shouting into the room.

"Why? You have plenty of dresses of your own." She replies grinning.

Mary looks at her sister and can see the michevousness in her eyes. She

smiles, "Come on Randa...I don't have anything nice enough to be on a

prince's arm." She whines. "A Prince huh? Well then you must look your

best." Miranda says smiling and opening her closet. She turns to look at

Isabelle. "Come now, we have to get her all fixed up." She says. Isabelle

slightly bows her head, "Yes, My Lady. She is accompying a prince...let's

make into a princess." She replies smirking catching on to what Miranda is

doing. "Randa...you don't understand. He kissed me!" She says almost

stuttering. "He kissed you? Where?" She asks looking a little concerned. "By

the front doors, I met him there before he had to meet with King Mark.""

Miranda laughs while Mary looks at her annoyed. "Why are you laughing at

me?" She pouts. Miranda exhales, "Had you ever been kissed before? Mary

looks at her and blushes, "No, that was the first." "I meant, where on your

body did he kiss you." "My cheek, it was perfectly honorable." She says.

"I think this one is good. What do you think, My Lady?" Isabelle says.

Miranda looks up and looks at the pink and white dress. "Now, let us see the

red one, rumor has it the Prince is fond of red." Miranda replies.

Isabelle holds up the red dress, trimmed with white. The arms of the dress

are long and go into a bell shape at the ends. "Yes, that one is perfect.

"Have you been to one of these parties?"

Mary shakes her head, "No."

"Well, Kane will escort you into the room. As you walk inside, You will be

introduced. Everyone will bow to the Prince. You just smile and looks pretty

on his arm. Trust me everyone will be whispering don't worry about it. Mark

and I will be last to arrive. Then the party will begin." Miranda says. "Now

remember you are gonna be with Prince Kane. You will have to carry yourself

like a princess." She adds.

Mary smiles, "I won't disappoint you, Randa. I promise." She says then

throws her arms around her sister.

Some hours later, Isabelle is done with Mary. She is dressed, her hair piled

on head, and the length dangles in dainty ringlets. She wears a black velvet

choker around her neck. "She is beautiful, I think the Prince will be

impressed." Miranda says. "You very pretty, Randa." Mary says looking at her

sister. Her dress the king's favorite color of purple and trimmed in black.

Her hair the same as her sisters. She wears a small silver crown a top her

head.

There is a knock on the door, Isabelle walks over and opens it. "Your

Highness." She says bowing. "Is my Mary ready?" He asks. "Yes, Prince she

is." She says motioning for Mary to come. Isabelle turns and makes her way

back through the room. Prince Kane smiles as he sees Mary. He offers his

arm, she takes it and they walk down the hall.

Miranda turns to to Tamara and Isabelle. "Aren't you going to the party?"

She asks of them.

"Oh, My Lady the party is to celebrate our champions."

"Get ready because you are going. This party is to celebrate that our land

is still free. And you are Scottish just like King Mark, just like Prince

Kane. You live in this castle and serve the King well. So you are going."

Miranda says.

Isabelle and Tamara smile, "Yes, My Lady. We will go and get ready then.

Thank you for inviting us."

"Oh Isabelle come here a moment. I have soemthing to tell you." Miranda

says.

Isabelle comes back into the room, she looks at Miranda curiously. "Do you

have an interest in anyone?"

"No, not that I can think of. I usually keep out of the way when men are

aound."

"Well, I overheard Prince Kane and Kronus talkign one day. Kronus is sweet

on you."

Isabelle smiles, "He is Prince Kane's best friend. He is second in command

of our armies." She replies.

"I thought I would let you know, now remember have fun. You are attending as

citizens of Edinburgh."

"Yes, My Lady." She says and then walk to the door. She opens it and finds

King Mark about to knock. Isabelle bows, "Good evening, Sire." She says.

"My feeligns are hurt, Isabelle."

"Sire?" She says confused.

"I am having a grand party and you are not even ready. Have I wronged you,

so that you wouldn't attend this party?"

"No, Sire. I am simply on my way to get ready. Your parties are usually not

the sort of thing a person like me would be welcomed at."

"Everyone is welcome to all of our celebrations." He replies.

"Excuse me, Sire." She says quickly as she scurries down to her own room and

changes. King Mark smiles and then walks into his wife's rooms.

He sucks in his breath as he catches first site of her. "Wife, you are truly

breathtaking." He says hugging her.

"And you my husband, as handsome as ever." She replies eyeing him,

remembering her day dreams of the day she and he were married. She smiles at

her fantasy image of him. "Miranda are you ok?" He aks. "Yes, husband I am

just fine." She replies standing on her toes and kissing him on the cheek.

"I have missed you lately." She says. "You have?" He says leaning down and

capturing her lips. Miranda feels as though she will melt as his toungue

slowly finds it way to her mouth. He breaks the kiss, and smiles at her, "I

will have to make up for that later then." He replies softly. Miranda smiles

as they walk out of the room arm in arm.

Mary and Kane come to the open doors to the great hall. They walk through

and are announced.

"Prince Kane of Scotland, and Mary." A herald announces. They walk in and

Mary looks around and smiles as people release their bows for the prince and

they begins whispering. "She hears one woman say, "I bet the Queen made the

prince escort one of her sisters." Mary just walks on and smiles. Most

people return the gesture and then they sit.

"Thank you for asking me to come with you, I know am I too young for you."

Mary announces.

Kane looks at her, "I did a lot of so called favors for the queen to be able

to ask you."

"What does that mean?"

"I asked her permission to court you several months ago. She kept saying no.

You know all the times my brother is looking for her and nobody can find

her?"

"Yes, well that is because she has been sneakign out of the safety of the

castle walls. I follow at a distance so that no harm comes to her. I am her

personal guard. If anything should happen to her it's me who answers to the

King."

"So you wanted to see me?"

"Yes, My Lady. After Miranda realized that you liked me and that you weren't

a child any longer she granted her permission." He says.

"You don't have to call me that, I am not a lady."

"If I have my way...you will become much more than that." He replies. Mary

snaps her head to look at him, "Excuse me? What did you say?" She asks

smiling. Kane smiles and looks away. "Nothing." He replies. Mary smiles at

herself, she laughs quietly at her thought of making the Prince blush.

Suddenly a herald blows into a long gold horn, everyone is quiet and they

stand.

"Announcing King Mark Calaway and Queen Miranda of Scotland."

Everyone in the room bows as the King and Queen make their entrance. They

get to the front of the room and look out at the room.

"Everyone please continue. Have a good time." King Mark says.

Chapter 11

"Excuse me, Prince Kane but I must speak with my sister." Mary says getting

up. "Please don't tell her what I said." He replies.

"Not to worry, I just need to speak with her. Nothign that important." She

replies and then walks off.

Kane watches her as she walks to Miranda. "Excuse me, My Lord. I must speak

with Miranda."

He smiles at her, "By all means, don't keep her too long." He says.

Miranda gets up and she walks with Mary. "Is anything wrong?" Miranda asks

of her terrified looking sister. "No nothign is wrong, I really like him...I

have never felt this way about anyone. He looks at me and I feel like my

skin will melt off." She says excitedly.

"Mary please don't get ahead of yourself, you don't know how he feels."

"I understand what you are saying, but when he is around my heart races and

when he is gone it aches for him. When he was gone, I was sure my eyes would

never look upon him again." She says.

"Have you liked him for long?"

"Ever since I saw him first. Your wedding...I saw him and thought my heart

would jump from my chest."

"Take it easy and let him make the first move. I wont stand in his way, if

that is what you are getting around to."

"So if he asks, you will approve?"

"Yes, I can't imagine a better man to marry one of my sisters." Miranda says

poking her head inside the door. "You better go back to him, he is looking a

little stressed." Mary hugs her sister, "Thank you." She says and then walks

inside and finds Kane. "feel better?" He asks. Mary smiles at him, "Yes, I

got the answer I was looking for." She replies as kane take sher hand, "Care

to dance?" He asks.

Mary smiles, "Of course, your highness." She says.

Kane holds her small frame near his, he dances with her so gracefully. Mary

glances to her sister who is smiling with approval, as the king looks on.

"Mary, I wish that you would just call me Kane." He says.

"Sure, Kane."She says smiling.

"What is going on with your sister and my brother?"

"Mary is smitten with him, and he is crazy for her."

"Has he asked you if you approve? Mary is kinda young." King Mark says as he

watches his brother enjoy happiness he so rarely has.

"Yes, he has." She replies.

"I suppose next he will be wanting to speak with your father."

"Probably."

Several hours later people begin to say their goodbyes. Kane escorts Mary

out of the room and to her own room. "I must say goodnight, Mary. I hope

you had a good time." Kane says and then claims her lips, his toungue darts

into her mouth, she moans as she feels the ground slipping away beneath her

feet. "Yes, I had a wonderful time." She replies breathlessly.

Kane opens her door, "Good night, my sweet prince." She says smiling at him

before she walks inside.

Miranda and Mark make their way to their own room, "I need to check on my

sister. Wait for me in our bed." She says.

"Don't take too long." He replies.

Miranda walk to her sister's room and walks inside. Mary is sitting on a

chair, just smiling to herself. "You ok?" Miranda asks. Mary looks at her

and smiles. "Yes, everything is perfect. He kissed me again...this time on

the mouth." She says still smiling. "Mary, how do you feel about him?"

Mary looks up at her sister, "I really like him...I want to be with him

always." She says.

"Well if he goes any farther he needs to speak to father." Miranda says.

"He was a perfect gentleman."

"I would hope so." Miranda says walking to the door.

"Good night, Randa."

"Good night, sweet dreams." She says leaving the room.

Chapter 12

"I know how much you want to go somewhere...get out of the castle. I have a

special quest for you."

"I am listening, my husband." Miranda says as she leans on her elbows

watching her husband dress.

"As you know, I like to help the poor, I feel that I have not done enough to

help them. So I wish you to visit a few different towns. Meet with clan

leaders, talk with the women."

"Will the clans even speak with me?"

"Yes, simply show them your ring. They will know who you are." He replies.

"Thank you, you have no idea how much I have been wanting to do soemthing to

help the people too. Scotland has many poor familes, and they won't take

charity...even if it comes from their generous king."

"They think I am generous?"

Miranda grins, "Your people love you, I have always been told how generous

you are."

"You won't be traveling alone either. Your ladies in waiting will go and

your sisters."

"Mary will lost without the Prince."

"They are quite funny to watch. I have been meaning to ask, why hasn't the

prince ever been married and I don't see a gaggle of young girls swooning

over him."

"My brother has always been quiet, and he is quite large he intimidates

people."

"Have you spoken to him of Mary? What are his intentions?"

King Mark sighs, "He is in love with her, he has been for sometime. His

intentions are completly proper and noble."

"I noticed it in her too, she fancies him so. If he asks my father, he will

give consent, I will make sure. I would like to see Kane happy."

King Mark walks over to the bed, he bends down and kisses Miranda. "I

haven't seen that in a while." He says and then leaves the room.

He opens the door to find Isabelle and mary standing there. He smiles, "Good

Morning, girls." "Good Morning, Sire." They say giggling and then walk into

the room.

"Would you guys quit giggling at him everytime he speaks." Miranda says

sitting up.

"But he is so handsome." Isabelle says.

"Isabelle!"

"Sorry, My Lady but he is."

"You should show more respect to your king." Mary says placing her hands on

her hips and wagging her finger at Isabelle, making Miranda laugh.

"Wow, I really need to relax huh?" She says.

"We can't help if our king is so handsome. You are envied, My Lady. There

was a long line of potential brides before you. he picked you to be his

queen out of all the land."

"Well, I am happy that he did." Miranda says.

Chapter 13

Mary walks with her sister, Abigail. "You weren't at the party, why?"

"I was not feeling good, I heard you had a good time with the prince. How

does Randa feel about that?

"Oh, she approves it took awhile but she finally gave her consent."

They walk along and then back inside the castle. "I will talk to you later,

Mary." Abigail says as they enter the castle.

"See you later." Mary says as she aimlessly wanders. Suddenly a hand grabs

her by the wrist and pulls her into a room. Before she screams out in terror

she looks up and smiles. "My sweet prince." She exclaims throwing her arms

around him. "I know you are leaving tomarrow with your sisters, I wanted to

see you before you left. Would you come with me on a horse ride." He asks,

before kissing her. "I would love to, but I must warn you if you plan on

going any farther you need to have a talk with my father." She says catching

her breath.

"I have already spoken with him, just this morning." He replies.

"Now when are we taking that ride?" She asks.

"Right now if you like, I have them ready."

They walk out of the room, and outside to the stable.

They ride together through the gate and out into a grass covered hillside.

They ride for awhile, and then they stop near a huge oak tree. Kane helps

Mary off her horse, and he spreads a blanket out on the ground. He smiles at

Mary, then he motions for her to sit down.

"I am happy that you came with me. This is my favorite place. So quiet and

peaceful."

"I would be happy anywhere with you." She replies.

Kane looks at her and then exhales, he claims her lips his toungue sliding

in her mouth. His hand reaches for her breast but her corset blocks him any

access. Mary breaks the kiss, and looks at him and then straddles him. She

brings her face down to his and kisses him deeply. She can feel his manhood

rising through his kilt. He breaks the kiss, and moves her so she is sitting

next to him. He reaches into the pouch on his belt, and pulls out a gold

bracelet that has diamonds and rubies on it. He places it around her wrist

and connects the clasp.

"Thank you, Kane." She says gazing at the first peice of jewelry she has

ever worn.

"Do you like it?" He asks.

"Yes, I love it.I hope we are not gone long. My heart will long for you."

She replies.



"Well, I better get you back before it gets dark." He says helping her to

her feet. Mary walks over and mounts her horse and waits for Kane. He joins

her shortly and they head for home.

Chapter 14

Once back at the castle Mary kisses her prince, and walks up the stone

staircase. She finds Miranda's room, and walks in.

"Randa...Randa you in here?" She calls.

"Yes, I am here." She says as she walks in from her dressing rooms.

Mary smiles at her, and holds out her arm showing her new gift. Miranda's

eyes go wide, "Where did you get that? It's beautiful." She asks. Mary just

smiles, "Kane, gave it to me. He said that he talked to Papa." She says

excitedly. "Did he say what he talked to him about?" "No, he didn't. But we

were kissing and I told him if he planned to go any farther he needed to

talk to Papa and he said that he already had just this morning."

Miranda just looks at her little sister, she smiles and then hugs her. "Yes,

I know Papa came and talked to me today. I know he is gonna ask you, I just

don't know when." She says.

"Randa, I am a little nervous about when he does. I mean he is a prince...He

is the king's brother."

"After awhile you will get used to it. Now come we must pack. We will be

gone for a week."

"I will miss him while we are gone." Mary says.

"Don't worry, he will be around. After all he is my personal guard I never

leave the palace without him."

"But you have left plenty of times without his escort."

"Yes, that is what he thinks I think. He follows from a distance, He thinks,

I can't see the giant man on the giant black horse wearing armour. Most

Scotts don't wear armour all the time." She replies.

The sisters separate to their own rooms and pack for the trip. "My Lady, if

it pleases you, you should take this one. It is beautiful." Isabelle says

holding out a dress. "Isabelle, this is a trip to see a few towns and help

the poor. I do not want to make them feel like they are pitied. I wish to

look a little plain." She replies. "But, My Lady you are the queen of

Scotland and meeting with some of the clan members you must look the part."

"Who is the queen and who is the lady in waiting? Please Isabelle don't

argue with me."

"As you wish, your highness." She says.

"Isabelle, are you already packed?"

"Yes, so is Tamara and your sister Abigail."

"I can do this myself, would you please tell the king I wish to have dinner

with him."

"Yes, My Lady." She says curtsying as she walks towards the door.

Miranda turns toward her, "Thank you." She says.

Isabelle nods her head politely and walks out of the room. Walking down the

hall, she finds the king sitting and talking with a few men. "Excuse me,

your majesty. Queen Miranda wishes to dine with you tonight." She says

lowering her head.

"Tell her I would be honored."

"Yes, Sire." She says backing up and then turns to leave.

Chapter 15

Miranda walks into the great hall and in the center of the long table, sits

two red taper candles glowing. she loosk around and hte torches on the wall

are lit giving the room a soft light. Once she enters the room, King Mark

stands watching her, he smiles as he tries to stifle his urge growing in his

loins.

Miranda walks closer to him and smiles trying to calm the beating of her

heart. She looks at h im standing there in just a plain white shirt, his

kilt and boots. Over his shoulder lays his tartan proudly showing his clan's

emblom on the pin holding it in place.

Miranda gets closer and he holds out a chair for her. After she sits he

walks around the table to take his seat across from her. She watches him as

he moves about. Finally he sits down and gazes at his wife taking in her

beauty.

"I shall miss you, my husband." She says breaking the silence between them.

"I shall long for your return my queen." He replies.

They eat their dinner, tender mutton chops, and potatoes. After they finish

he escorts her upstairs and into their room.

Once inside she stands before him, she twirls a lock of his deep red hair

around her finger looking into his green eyes. She unpins his tartan,

folding it carefully, she places it on a chair. Unbuttoning his shirt she

exposes his chest, running her fingers gently down his muscles. She undoes

his kilt letting it fall to the floor. She pushes him down onto the bed.

Unlacing his boots, she pulls them from his feet setting them down next to

the chair. As he lay on the bed, she takes his manhood into her mouth.

Suddenly he pulls her head up. Guiding her to her feet, he unties her

corset, he tosses it to the chair. Reaching for her dress, he unbuttons it.

Miranda slides her arms through the sleeves and lets the dress fall to the

floor. He picks her up and tosses her on the bed. After removing her shoes

and stockings, he spreads her legs apart. Going down on her, she gasps in

surprise. He licks and sucks her clit, she reaches her climax as he peirces

her center with his toungue, lapping up her juices. She opens her legs

farther invitig him.

He lets out a small growl only excitig her more. He pulls her arms over her

head and holds them there. He loosk over and grabs his tartan. He binds her

by the wrists with the sash. He rubs her slit, he slowly enters her with his

finger. Causing her greet him with a wet fury, finally he climbs between her

legs and roughly enters her. He pounds into her, as if his life depended on

her hot wetness. He expells his seed into her as she soaks him again. He

looks into her eyes as he stays inside of her.

"I am sorry if I hurt you." He says stroking her face.

She smiles, as she catches her breathe. "I am not hurt, I loved it my

husband. I am your wife, never feels bad for taking what you need." She says

as he unties her. He pulls himself out of her and places the tartan back on

the chair. Miranda sits up, she nibbles on his ear and whispers, "I like it

that way, maybe when I return you can take me roughly...maybe we can go on a

ride when I return." She says seductivly.

He smiles at her, "I am sure I can think of something." He says with a

slight growl in his voice.

Chapter 16

Miranda, Abigail, Mary, Isabelle and Tamara all climb inside a waiting

carriage. Miaranda loosk out of the window and sees Mark and the Prince

walking towards them. "Mary, your man is coming this way." Miranda says,

grabbing her little sister's hand and pulling her outside. The king looks at

her and then picks her up and hugs her. "Did you think you would leave

without saying goodbye?" He asks as he sets her down. "I will be back in

only 5 days." She says kissing him. "It shall be an eternity for me, my

heart will ache in your absense." He says sweetly.

Miranda looks over at her sister who is firmly attatched to the Prince's

mouth. She smiles and them looks back at her husband. "I don't know why they

are actign like they will never see each other again...after all he will be

following from a distance he thinks we can't see."

"They are in love, don't tease them." He chastises her playfully.

"Come Mary, let's go." She says as she kisses her husband goodbye. before

she gets back into the carriage, he puts his folded up tartan into her

hand. She smiles at his after she looks at the gift. "When you get to towns,

wear this so that the clans will know from which clan you come from." He

says.

"I shall wear it proudly." She says, then gets inside the carriage, Mary

reluctantly follows her.

"I love you my King."

"Aigh, I love you too, my Queen." He says as he nods to the driver and they

leave the castle grounds.

"When are you gonna ask that girl to be your wife?" Mark asks.

"When they return, I guess I better get ready to follow them."

"You have time, come let's talk."

Kane follows him inside the castle, "Have you had her ring made yet?" Mark

asks.

"Yes, here look at it." He replies pulling a delicate gold band, encrusted

with a moderate sized diamond. "I hope she likes it."

"I am sure that she will, what did her father say to you?"

"He was not very pleased at first, Mary is only 14. I assured him that she

would always be cared for, she would always be loved and protected. He did

approve, thankfully."

"It does my heart good to see you happy. Mary is a good girl, I think she

will make you a great wife."

"Thank you brother." Kane says as he makes his leave heading for the

stables.

Mark watches him mount his horse, then putting his extra sword into its

sheath on Kane's back.

Kane races off through the hillside to find the carriage. He gets sight of

Shawn and Kronus ride infront of the carriage. Kane quickly finds the small

road and rides behind the carriage.

Miranda hears the new heavy hoofbeats and peeks out of the small window in

the back of the carriage. She smiles, and pokes her sister in the arm. Mary

looks outside to see her prince in all his armour following behind them.

"Why does he follow so close?" Isabelle asks.

"King's orders. It was the only way that he woulod allow this trip. Plus we

have a trunk full of gold, to give to the poor." Miranda replies.

"Well, he is just doing his job, afterall he is your personal guard." Mary

says.

"I just wish I didn't have to spend this time away from Mark."

"With the potential threat from the French it wouldn't surprise me if we did

see the king also."

Suddenly the carriage stops, the driver gets down and opens the door. "My

Lady, we have arrived to Glascow. Shall I make your camp?"

"Yes, can we get out yet?"

"As soon as the Prince has secured the area." The driver replies.

Chapter 17

"Everything is secure, My Lady." Prince Kane says opening the carriage door.

Miranda takes his hand as he helps her from the carriage. Mary smiles at him

as he helps her out next. She stands on her tip toes, "Meet me later in my

tent, my prince." She whispers in his ear. He replies with a soft growl,

setting her heart racing.

"Mary, come now. Let the prince do his job." Miranda says leading her

younger sister along. Abigail follows along as well as Tamara and Isabelle.

They find a grassy spot and sit down to wait for the men to finish setting

up the camp. Miranda gets up as she does so does Isabelle and Tamara. "It's

alright, sit down and relax. I am only goign over there to speak with Shawn

and Kronus." She says and then turning to walk off.

She stands near Shawn, he looks at her and bows his head. "Now tell me about

these clans I will be meetign with. The Mc Cloed's and the Shaunnesy's. What

are they like? Will they speak with a woman?" She asks.

"They are both proud clan's. The leader's can seem a bit rough at first. If

you wish to unite them, it is their respect you must first gain. They favor

King Mark and you bear the Calaway tartan so they will listen to you."

"Thank you, Shawn. And please don't make it look like I am anything fancy. I

was born of meager means, I am not better than anyone else. Any title or who

my husband is will change that."

Shawn looks at her and smiles, "Yes, My Lady. I will do my best." He replies

and then turns back to his work. Miranda walks around a bit, she spots Kane

and walks over to him. As she approaches from behind him, he draws his

massive great sword, and swings it around. Stopping just at Miranda's neck.

She freezes, her heart racing. He quickly withdraws hsi sword realizing it

was Miranda.

"Forgive me, My Queen."

"Worry not, you did not harm me. You were only doing your job, protecting

your brother's wife and your love, my sister." She says smiling.

"My Lady, may I ask you something?"

"Sure, Kane. And stop with the titles...I am your sister-in-law. And I am

also your friend."

"If I asked Mary to marry me, do you think she would agree?"

"Of course she would, she loves you. The look on her face when you walk into

a room is amazing. She lights up." She replies.

"Good, I am just a little nervous."

"When did you wish to ask her?"

"When we return. I want to ask her at home." He says sighing.

"Kane don't ever wonder about her feelings she truly loves you." Miranda

says trying to reassure him.

"But will she still love me if she knew my face?" He growls as he pulls off

his mask and looks at Miranda.

She shoots Kane a dirty look, "She doesn't care what you look like.

Honestly, nobody knows why you even wear that thing. There is nothign wrong

with your face." She growls back. He loosk away.

Miranda pulls his sword from it's sheath and pulsl Kane's head down..."Now

look at your reflection, I see nothing but the Prince of Scotland...My

persobnal guard and the man that my sister loves more than her own life.

Quite pissin' around and be the man I know you are." She yells as she walks

off to sit with her sisters.

Kane just looks at her shocked, then puts his mask back on and continues

guarding the camp.

Finally camp is made, Miranda walks into her tent and opens a trunk, pulling

out a simple dress she lays it on the bed. Getting out of her traveling

clothes she puts on the dress. She lays the King's tartan over her shoulder

she pins it together and walks outs of the tent. Kronus walks over to her,

"Ready, My Lady?" She smiles at him, "Yes, please let my escort know. By the

way who will be watching out for my sisters and ladies?" She replies. "Aye,

me and Shawn, your highness." He replies. "Very good, then." She turns to

walk towards a saddled horse. "I know that you will take care of them." She

says then continues walking.

She walks over and mounts a solid black percheron. Grabbing the reigns she

directs the horse towards the Prince's direction.

"Let's go." She says.

"I wish my brother could see you know. Scotland is lucky to have you in it's

support." He says.

"I love Scotland and will do anything to keep it free from anyone who thinks

they can take it from us. I never want my children to tell the stories I

grew up hearing from my grandfather and father. If I could take up a sword

and fight along side my country men I would." She replies.

"I bet you would do great, but queens do not fight in wars."

"I know...I know. I am to sit in the castle wringing my hands wondering if

my husband, and brother-in-law and the rest of my friends and relatives will

come home. I feel helpless, I want to do more." She says as they ride off

down the countryside.

"We are almost here. We will be meeting the clans in that pub over there."

"Do you think we have such a big state of emergency from France?"

"Not yet, but we don't want to have to go through what our forefathers have.

It is better to unite the clans now than to wait."

"I am all for it, I know that there are some problem between a few of them.

But I am hoping that we can all come together for Scotland." She says.

"I am sure you will do just fine, or else we would have never sent you. It

was me who was supposed to do this. But Mark has faith in you...and so does

everyone else."

Miranda just grins at him, part of herself feeling proud, but another part

of her feels very overwhelmed. They stop there horses and tie them to a post

outside of the pub.

"I will go in first, you follow me inside. Now I warn you this is a rowdy

group."

"They don't frighten me." She replies following him inside.

As they walk in the door, several men wearing swords look at them. They sit

talking with their friends, drinking ale.

"Who is the this?" One man yells.

"I am Prince Kane Calaway. From the Clan Calaway, this is Queen Miranda wife

to King Mark."

"Aye, look we got royalty here." Another man says.

"I am Connor, I am the leader of the McCloed Clan." He says dropping his

head in resepct.

"I am Hammish, leader of the Shaunessy Clan. What do we owe this visit too?"

Miranda looks around rather nervously. Then walks to the front of the packed

pub, she turns and stands there looking at this group of men.

"Many of you know that the French has entered our land. The King has sent me

in his stead to let all of Scotland know of this. My earnest hope is to

unite the Clans. We all need to work together to keep Scotland free."

"What do you know of freedom?" A voice yells from the back of the room.

"Please good sir. Show yourself."

He does, she peers at an older man, riddled with scars and various battle

wounds, wearing an eye patch. "I know plenty about freedom. I was just a

girl when the war finally ended. My uncles, both of my granfathers, cousins

and my own father fought in the war to end english tyranny. I grew up in a

poor family in Edinburgh, my father is a farmer and my mother often worked

every now and then in the local pub, she even once worked for King Mark's

father as a maid to help feed us. I do not coem to you as the Queen of

Scotland...but as scot. I am here to ask my countrymen in the help of

keeping our freedom." She says.

"Aye, then how did you become Queen?"

"The king was looking for a wife, he saw me one day and asked my father for

my hand. Needless to say my father agreed."

"What did the king give your family? Chests of gold? Titles? Land?"

"He granted my family more land, and the promise of a new house to be built.

But he promised no special favor, he promised no title or money. The King

only wishes for unity of Scotland."

"What of the french?" A young man asks.

"The French have came here, the Prince rann them off...but I fear they will

return. King Hunter sent them, I know not why...but I am not willing to have

the french occupy our country like england did. I am not willing to have

anyone lose anything. I am not willing to let them take anything from

Scotland and her guardians." She replies.

The rachous crowd cheers. Hammish and Connor both shake her hand, "The king

has our alliegance. If he commands we will follow him into war."

"Thank you, thank you all so much." She says smiling.

"Now if it pleases your majesty, stay and have a drink with us...have some

dinner." Hammish says.

Miranda looks at Kane, he just looks at her and smiles. "As long as someone

plays pipes for me." She replies taking a seat.

Chapter 17

Miranda takes a seat at a long table. "Sorry, My Lady but we only have

Haggis and ale. Nothing fit for you."

"Haggis and ale will be just fine." She replies with a smile. The woman nods

her head and walks back to the small kitchen. She returns soon with a

steaming bowl of haggis and a pint of ale. She sets it down in front of

Miranda and curtsies as she leaves.

"It will be dark soon." Kane says.

"Are you afraid of the dark?"

"No, I am only concerned with your safety." He replies.

"I am fine Prince. I wish my sisters and everyone else to join me...go and

fetch them would you." She says coldly.

Kane walks over to Hammish, "Could you watch over the queen? She wishes her

companions to join her." He asks.

"Aye, she will be safe here." He replies.

Kane heads for the door, he turns and looks at his sister-in-law before

leaving. He rides just outside of the village and collects Miranda's sisters

and ladies-in-waiting.

"Come ladies, the queen has summoned you." He commands showing them to the

carriage.

Miranda enjoys her dinner, as a few of the men begin playing their bagpipes.

She smiles as the melody takes her to a long forgotten memory. She takes a

big drink from her ale and enjoys herself, truly having a good time since

she was married. Not having to behave as the Queen of Scotland, but a young

girl enjoying the entertainment of her countrymen.

"Excuse me your majesty, are you alright?" A young girl no older than 14

asks.

"Aye, yes lassie. What is your name?"

"Heather, My lady." She replies.

"What brings one so young as you to be here?"

"My Da, is Hammish."

"Aye, Hammish is a good man. Does your Ma know you are hanging out in the

pub?"

"My ma, died as I was born. Da is all I have, do you really mean to call him

to war?"

"I am not here to call anyone to battle. I am only here to secure Scotland.

To unite the clans...there is nothing to worry about. Your Da is safe." She

reassures the girl.

"Good. It was nice to meet you Queen Miranda of the Clan Calaway." She says

curtsying.

"Thank you, and it was nice to meet you Heather. Now could you do me a

favor?"

"Anything."

"Ask your Da, and Mr. McCleod come here." She replies.

"Yes, My Lady." She says and then turns to Hammish's direction.

Hammish and Connor walk over. "Please take a seat." She says. They sit and

Miranda hands them each a leather pouch. "This is full of the King's gold

and silver, please use it for your clan, your village." She says.

They both look at her, then shake their heads. "We have not earned

compensation."

"This is not compensation, this is a gift. My goal is to have no more poor

in Scotland. I don't want to ride through villages and see starving

children, women walking around in rags, because they can't buy material for

a dress. I don't want Scotland's bravest wearing tattered kilts." She says.

The men take the gift and take their leave of her as Kane and her companions

walk in.

Mary and Abigail light up at the sound of pipes playing. She see Miranda and

walk over to her and sit down.

"Why is nobody dancing?" Abigail asks.

"I don't know, but you seem to have gotten the attention of someone." She

says looking at tall dark haired man.

Abigail looks over in the direction, "Oh he is cute. But he is strange

looking. He seems like he isn't from around here. I wonder who he is."

"Well, I can't help but to stare at the hottest guy here...my Prince."

"Come Mary, let's dance. All that pipe playing going to waste."

Abigail and Mary get up and begin step dancing. As they go along the pipes

get faster as they do.

Miranda sits and smiles as she watches her sisters dancing and laughing. "Go

on and have a good time." She says. Isabelle and Tamara grin and get up and

join Mary and Abigail dancing. Kane stiffens his back as he realizes these

men are watching his intended and he has not proposed yet. Miranda sees this

and walks over to him as he puts his hand over the hilt of his sword.

Miranda gently touches his arm. "She is safe and nobody has harmed her. Calm

down." She says quietly. He loosens the grip on his sword, "Aye, I can see

that. But I have yet to propose to her." He says. Miranda laughs. "Then

claim her. Go over there and claim your betrothed. Besides I wanna see the

Prince of Scotland step dancing."

Kane spins his head around. He glares at Miranda, "I am sorry, my Lady. But

no way."

"What you don't want to marry my sister? And I thought you loved her. Well,

it's good to know now."

"begging your pardon, but what is with the mood changes? Of course I love

her, but these men are starign at her, the loosk on soem of their faces is

sickening. I hate what I know they are thinking about my future wife. I

don't want anyone looking at her like that...or having that thought cross

thier minds."

"Then go claim her." She replies again.

He walks nervously the center of the room and holds out his hand. Mary

smiles and takes it. They begin dancing together, him matching every step

with her without effort.

Everyone watching them, Miranda smiles. She motions for Abigail, Isabelle,

and Tamara to come and sit. Leaving Kane and Mary by themselves. Every woman

comes from the kitchen to watch a rare sight. The Prince of Scotland

dancing.

"Aye, that is one lucky girl. I wonder who she is."

"That is the queen's younger sister. I hear they are quite the item. My

cousin was at the castle and saw them sharing a quite intimate moment."

"She is lucky, that is one delicious hunk of Scot."

"Oh Shannon." She says smacking her with a towel. "Me, I saw you looking

too, Bridget." She laughs.

"Aye, no harm in the looking." Shannon says as they walk back into the

kitchen.

Suddenly the room is quiet. Kane is on one knee, he takes Mary's hand. He

pulls out a gold ring, sparkling with a large princess cut diamond out of

his Sporran. "Mary, I love you. I promise to protect you forever. Would you

agree to be my wife?" He says.

Mary smiles at him, she looks at her sister a single tear escaping from her

eye. Miranda nods her head. Mary turns back to Kane. "Yes, of course my

sweet Prince." She replies. He places the ring on her finger, she looks at

it then lifts her head. Kane claims her lips sliding his toungue over hers,

they intertwine and finally he breaks the kiss.

They walk over to the table and sit down. Miranda takes Mary's hand and

looks at her ring. "It's beautiful. Congatulations, both of you." She says.

Chapter 18

"I am ready to head back to our camp." Miranda says.

"Very well, My Lady." He says.

Miranda walks over to the clan leaders, "Thank you for your hospitality, if

you are ever in Endigburgh the same shall be shown for you." She says.

"Hammish and Connor both nod their heads. "Aye, we were happy to meet with

you, My Queen." Connor says. "Have a safe trip, My Lady." Hammish says.

"Thank you, I only hope that the other clans show me the same amount of

kindness as you have shown here." She says and then turns to walk out of the

pub.

The women all join her in the carriage with Kane riding behind them.

Mary gazes at her ring through the moonlight. "Are you truly happy for me?"

She asks. Miranda smiles, "Yes, I am very happy for you. Kane is a good man,

and he is my friend I couldn't ask for a better brother-in-law." She replies

making Mary proud.

They arrive at the camp and settle in for the night. Miranda sharing a tent

with her ladies in waiting. Mary and Abigail sharing another. The men take

shifts guarding the camp.

Mary lays in her bed, waiting for her sister to fall asleep. Once she hears

her softly snoring, she sneaks outside. She stops near Miranda's tent and

listens closely. Hearing nothing she assumes that her sister is sleeping.

She walks over to where Kane is standing. He hears footsteps behind him and

reaches for his sword. "Easy my Prince it is only me." She says calmly. He

turns to see Mary standing there. "I am working." He says as she slides her

arms around him. He looks down at her and smiles, claiming her lips. "Now

back to bed before your sister wakes." He says. "But, don't you want me?"

She asks. "Of course I do, but we must wait till we are married. That was

your request not mine." He replies. "I know, but I can't sleep while you are

out here watching over us, wearing that armour, your appearance gives me

thoughts...lustful thoughts." She says alluringly. Kane growls trying to

stifle his erection. Mary grins as she can see the material of his kilt look

strange. She pulls Kane behind a tree, getting on her knees she takes his

manhood into her mouth. She licks nad sucks his shaft until he is breathing

hard. He reaches down and strokes her hair. She stops just before he

climaxes. Letting his kilt fall to it's normal position she gets to her

feet. He looks at her like she is insane. "After our wedding I will finish

the job." She says walking off to her tent. He watches her his need for her

growing.

Mary gets back into her bed, and smiles to herself. "I hope he doesn't make

me wait to long to finish that." She mutters to herself before falling

asleep.

Miranda wakes before the sun, she walks outside to find that a fire is

burning and Isabelle is cooking something. She walks over and pours herself

a cup of tea that is brewing. "Did you hear Mary sneak out last night?"

Isabelle asks. "Aye, I did. But. let's not let her know that we know." "Yes,

My Lady. She is about to be a princess and her life will be even closer

guarded. I wonder what they did."

"If I know my boy crazy little sister she teased him then went to sleep."

Miranda replies giggling a little. "Something I have done to the King a few

times. How do you think he agreed to this trip?"

Isabelle looks at Miranda surprised, "I would have never expected that from

you, your highness." Miranda just smiles.

Chapter 19

Mary looks out through a small window on the back of their carriage, she

gazes at Kane as he rides behind them watching for danger.

"Mary, stop staring at him and let him do his job." Miranda says pulling on

her little sister's arm. She sits, looks at her sister almost pouting. "I

can look at him all I want. Afterall he will be my husband, then you can't

order me about any longer." She whines.

"Aye, but that day hasn't come yet has it?" Miranda replies with a snicker.

"Stop teasing her." Abigail says.

"You are just jealous...you have no man." Mary says sarcastically.

Abigail turns away from her sisters and thinks of the image of that tall

dark haired man she saw at the pub. His dark brown eyes seemed to have

paralyzed her heart.

"I am a strong scot woman...I need no man." She barks at them Sending both

Miranda and Mary laughing.

Suddenly the carriage stops, the door opens. Kane is standing there still

atop his horse. "We have arrived to Stirling, stay put until I have assured

your safety." He says.



"We will be waiting, my sweet prince." Mary replies.

He tilts his head at her, smiling and trying to hide the shallowness of his

breathing at her sight.

Mary exhales as he turns the giant steed around and rides in a perimeter of

the area they are to camp. He hears a rustling in the trees, he follows the

sound. He finds a man wearing armour walking around. Kane draws his sword,

"Turn slowly and tell me who you are." He demands his voice low and

menacing. The man turns and Kane recognizes him from the pub in Glascow.

"I am Batista. I mean the Queen and her ontourage no harm. Her sister caught

my eye."

"Well your eye can go elsewhere. Her sister is off limits." He replies

roughly.

"Forgive me, Prince. But my eye has not fallen on your betrothed...the other

sister."

"The Queen will be meeting with the clan leaders this evening. You may prove

your honor then. By the way...the girl's name is Abigail." He says then

turns his horse and rides back to the carriage.

"All is safe, My Lady." He says.

"Good, we need to stretch our legs." Miranda replies stepping from the

carriage. "My Lady, may have a word with you?" He asks. "Certianly." She

says following him. She turns to see Isabelle and Tamara following her.

"Alone, ladies." She says dismissing her maids.

"There was a man, calling himself Batista in the woods. He says he saw

Abigail in Glascow. I sense no harm from him, but he is not Scottish."

"How do you know?"

"He had an accent...sounded italian. I told him if he wanted to meet her,

that he could be in town when you meet with the Clans."

"That way I can check him out." She replies.

Suddenly Kane flips his head around, hearing the sounds of metal clanking.

He draws his sword and runs back to the camp, all he can think of is his

dear Mary in danger.

He is disgusted by the site of French soldiers fighting with his men.

Miranda comes running back to the carriage. She leads her sisters and her

maids inside. Sticking her head from the window, "Take us to town." She

orders.

"The Prince has ordered me to stay here."

"Your Queen is in danger! If anything happens to me...you will face King

Mark!" She says.

Mary shreiks in horror as she sees a sword coming at Kanes throat. "Mary

calm down, he will be fine."

Kane ducks just before the blade hits him. He hits the in the head with the

hilt of his great sword. Knocking the man out. They hear the sound of a

horse coming in at a full run. The man riding it slashes through what french

soldiers ar still standing. Kane grabs what seems to be their leader by the

throat and lifts him off the ground. "You go back and tell King Hunter that

Scotland will defend herself." He grolws before throwing the trembling man

to the ground. He scrambles to his feet and runs from the scene as well as

the rest of his people.

Mary jumps from the carriage and runs to her Prince. She jumps into his

arms, "I was so scared, I thought that I might lose you." She says into his

chest.

Kane puts her down, he looks into her bright green eyes and sees the worry

there. "Go and stay with your sisters. It is safer there." He orders, then

kisses her on the cheek.

Kane stands face to face with the man who helped him. The man removes his

helmet and reveals himself to be Batista. "You have proven your honor. I

thank you for the help...but my men could have handled it."

"I couldn't wait any longer to see Abigail. I was riding near and heard

fighting."

"Abigail, come out here please." Kane says.

She obeys and stands near the Prince. He turns and smiles, his hazel eyes

shinning through his auburn curls. "This is your champion, Batista. He has

followed us all the way from Glascow to meet you."

Abigail, holds out her hand. Batista takes it and kisses it lightly. "Thank

you, good Sir." She replies smiling.

"Would it be to much to ask if I can take you on a walk?" He asks.

Abigail turns to look at her sister, just as Miranda leaves the carriage.

Batista bows his head at her presence. She just smiles at her sister.

"I would love to." She replies.

"Alright, let's get this camp made fit for a queen and a future princess."

He orders. His men scurry around and set up their tents. Kane takes Mary's

hand and leads her to a grove of trees. He turns her so that her back is

against a tree, he claims her lips passionatly. His toungue snakes inside

her mouth. She runs her fingers through his long curls as his kiss causes

her to nearly melt. He breaks the kiss and looks into her eyes. "I love you

with everything I have." He says. "I love you too, my Prince. "I was so

worried that those soldiers hurt you or your sisters. My heart would have

broken into a thousand peices if they so much as harmed one hair on your

head." He says. "Nothign will happen to me, with your protection." She

replies pulling hishead down and claiming his lips, she reaches under his

kilt and strokes his already engorged tool. Breaking the kiss she gets on

her knees and finishes the job she started in Glascow. He groans as his load

explodes in her mouth. She swallows his fluid, and licks every drop from

him. She replaces his kilt and gets to her feet and smiles at him.

"The day we get back to Edingburgh I want to be married. I can't wait

another moment until you are inside of me." She says and then walks away.

Leaving him to stare at her in shock.

Chapter 20

Miranda walks through the camp, she finds Kane. "Mary informs me that you

will be wed when we return home."

"Yes, My Lady." He replies.

"Kane I have told you a million times...call me Miranda. Afterall I am your

sister-in-law and you are my friend."

"I am only showing you the resepct that you deserve. Most noblewomen would

never travel all over Scotland and live in a tent."

"Well I am not a noblewoman...I am as common as everyone else in this

country. I can't fight in your army, and sitting at fancy parties is just

not me, and I can't help Scotland that way either."

"Aye, you are right. My brother couldn't have picked anyone better to be his

wife."

"Now where my sister Mary is concerned. You treat her right. If I ever hear

of you hurting her in any way...you will be very sorry." She warns.

"I love Mary. I know she is young...I know there is 20 years between

us...but I love her and can't see myself without her." He replies.

"I have a job for you. Abby really likes this man...Batista. I want him

watched, and report back to me. I don't want her hurt and I don't want

Scotland in jeopardy."

"Yes, Miranda. I understand. Abby is like a sister to me I will make sure

she isn't in any danger."

"You protect my family like they are your own, I do appriciate that."

"But they are my family." He replies.

"I wish to go into town soon, this time everyone comes at the same time."

She says.

"Whenever you are ready." He replies before going to tend to his horse.

Miranda walks over to her tent and chooses a dress a little more plain

looking. A pale green long sleeved one, she pins up her long black hair and

places a small tiara on her head. Lookign into a small mirror she drapes

King Mark's tartan over her shoulder nad pins it in place. Opening a wooden

chest she plucks out a few small leather pouches filled with gold and

silver. She places them in a small sporran around her waist. She emerges

from the tent and awaits her driver. She waves over to Mary and abigail.

They come over with her maids in tow.

"Mary go and tell Kane we are ready to go." She instructs.

"Is David welcome to come too?" Abigail asks.

"Yes, that should be fine, but he has to ride with Kane. Hurry go and tell

him." She replies dismissing her sister.

Mary and Abigail both return to the carriage and step inside. They take

there seats. Kane rides in front of the carriage and Kronus follows behind

on his sorrel collored percheron, riding alongside of him is David Batista

riding along on his bay percheron. They both scan the sides of the road for

danger. "You know, Abby is like sister to all of us. You do best to treat

her like a lady." Kronus announces breaking the awkward silence between

them. "She is quite a girl, and deserves the best. I am honorable." He

replies.

"You sound strange, where are you from?"

Batista exhales, "Italy, I was a knight protecting the vatican. I was blamed

for a crime that I didn't commit. I was banished, never to be allowed to

return to my homeland."

"So you are a knight?"

"Yes, I am...well I was. I fought many valiant battles protecting the pope."

"I will have to speak of this to the Prince. He is our general...he leads us

into battle. The Prince is the most dominate fighter I have ever seen, as

well as my best friend."

"That would nice of you."

"So where do you stay?"

"I am just roaming. I sleep under the stars."

"This a rainy island to be doing that." Kronus says with a snort.

"Well you are gonna need a job and a home if you are gonna court our fair

Abigail. Just a word of advice. Scotsmen are abrasive in protecting our

women. The english and all, we fought against 400 years of war with them.

They would rape our wives on their wedding night. We are particular with who

our daughters see in that type of manner."

"I have heard of your great battles with the english. I respect the wishes

of her family."

"Looks like we are coming to town." Mary says. She looks to see if anyone is

listening to her. She grins as she sees Abigail looking out of the back

window watching Batista.

"He is attractive." Mary says.

"The Prince would be upset by hearing that." Miranda says.

"When did you turn into our mother?" Mary asks.

"More like, when did she turn into an old crone? I remeber when Randa was

nice...and oh yes I remeber now. She used to be fun too."

"I hope I don't turn into an old crone after I marry Kane. Oh that won't

happen...my marriage wasn't arranged." Mary says.

"Why are you all picking on me? I have been nothing but good to the both of

you. Mary, you are only 14 and I have consented for your marriage to the

Prince who is 20 years older than you. And you...Abigail. There is a strange

man following us...why? I will tell you why...because you caight his eye.

And he probably realizes that the King of Scotland is your brother-in-law. I

don't have the luxary of being nice and or fun anymore. I must help run a

country and ensure your safety. So what if my marriage is arranged...doesn't

mean I am any less loved than you, Mary." Randa almost shouts.

"Atleast Da didn't sell me to the highest bidder." Mary shouts.

Miranda's eyes squint, as she feels her hot temper consume her. She pulls

her hand back and slaps her sister loudly. She whimpers from the blow. Mary

just glares at her sister in shock.

"Don't ever say that to me again. Trust me...I have ways to make you pay."

Miranda says coldly.

The carriage stops, Miranda doesn't wait for Kane to check things out. She

stands there waiting for her sisters and maids to come out before shutting

the door. She pulls Mary to the side. "You act right here, this is for

Scotland and not about you. Afterwards why don't you go suck off your

betrothed like a commom whore in the woods." She says with venom dripping

from her toungue. Mary stiffens up, wipes her face and puts on her best

smile as the prince rides to them. He tilts his knowing something is wrong

with Mary. He leads the women into the pub, and finds the clan leaders

sitting at a long table on the side of the room. They are drinking ale and

having a rather loud conversation. They look up to see Prince Kane.

"Aye, he is ready for war."

"Must not be from around here, that is nice armour."

Kane grows annoyed with their behavior. "I am Prince Kane, I am from the

Clan Callaway. This is Queen Miranda, she is here at King Mark's request."

The men both bow their heads. "Begging a thousand pardons, My Lady."

"I am not offended. What are your names?" she asks.

"I am Rory, of the Clan Mc Doughal a red haired man with a medium build.

This here is Robert, he is my cousin. How may we be of service to King and

country?"

"Mind if I have a seat?" She asks.

"Forgive me manners, Your highness." Rory says getting up and offering her a

chair.



Chapter 21

"What can we do for our Queen today?" Robert asks.

Miranda sits there watching the men for a few moments, "As you may know

Scxotalnd has had a few unwelcome guests. It seems that the french seem to

think that they can have their way with Scotland. Now I won't stand for

it...and neither will the King. I have come to speak to you personally to

unite your clan with the other clans and protect Scotland." She says.

Rory smiles at her, at forst not knowing if she is serious. Robert looks at

her wondering what her story is.

"How do we really know that you are the Queen?" Robert asks.

"My husband knew that people would question me." She says unpinning the

tartan form her shoulder. She hands it to Robert. He looks it over and finds

the Callaway crest on the front. He shows it to his cousin and then hands it

back to the Queen.

"Our grandfather was killed by an english lord. We wish for no more tyranny,

whether it be the french or the english. Scotland is our home and we will

protect her from all enemies." Rory announces.

"The King sends you these gifts." She says handing them the leather pouches.

The open them and find it's filled with gold and silver.

"It has been my honor to speak with you. Please take this gift and use it to

help your families." Miranda says rising from her chair. The foul mood her

sisters have put her in has made her in a hurry to leave.

"I shall take my leave of you. Thank you for your loyalty to Scotland."

"We are honored to have you as our guest, vist again anytime." Rory says as

he and his cousin rise to their feet. Miranda follows Kane with Kronus

following behind her. Mary, abigail and Isabelle and Tamara follow behind.

They get to the carriage and get inside. The ride to the camp is quiet and

tense.

"Randa, I didn't mean what I said. You are my sister and I love you." Mary

says.

Miranda snaps her head around, her almost shooting daggers from them. "What

exactly did you not mean? The part that Da sold me to the king...or that I

am an old crone?"

"Everything."

"I am sorry too, please forgive us?" Abigail says.

Miranda half grins as her heart softens. Never been able to stay mad at her

sisters for long. "I am sorry to. I didn't mean what I said. Especially

about Kane."

Mary sits there mortified as she recalls her sister's venomous remarks. Her

face turns red, wondering if they were seen.

They sit the rest of the ride in silence. Neither sister ready to completly

forgive each other yet.

"Randa, why did you speak to me as if I was a common whore?"

"I was angry. That is all...I am sorry."

"I am hurt, I can't forgive you yet. All I know is that I want to go home."

"Good, because that is where we are headed in the morning." She replies.

They arrive at the camp and get out of the carriage. "I wish to be alone for

awhile, Isabelle make sure that I am not disturbed." Miranda orders.

"Yes, My Lady."

Miranda walks into her tent to find her husband laying on the bed. He seems

to be sleeping. Miranda smiles at him and then gets down and lays next to

him and puts her head on his chest, just listening to his heartbeat. He puts

his arm around her and holds her to him.

"I have missed you my wife."

"Aye, husband you are a sight for sore eyes." She replies laying light

kisses on his chest.

Chapter 22

The trip home was long, but Miranda seemed a bit happier having her husband

near again.

"I was wrong, Your husband does love you." Mary says.

"Aye, he does. And I him. He says Da has finished the new house."

"I bet it's grand. So does that mean that I will moving moving out of the

castle?" Abigail asks.

"Yes, I am sure Da would want you at home with Ma and Tristan."

"I have had so much fun these past months living in the castle." Abigail

replies.

"I have loved having all of you there with me. But when we get home we have

a wedding to prepare for. And I think Mary will need us to help her."

"I am nervous. Not nervous of being his wife...but I will be a princess and

with that comes new responsibility. I love Kane with everything I have but I

am afraid I will disappoint him."

"You will do fine, He loves you and he will take care of you with his life."

Finally they arrive in Edinburgh. They are greeted with people standing on

the sides of the road.

"Ok ladies, this is our part." Miranda says opening a chest brimming with

gold. Miranda opens the curtian of the window on the carriage door. They

each grab handfuls of gold and toss them out of the carriage. They smile as

the people pick up peices of gold and seem happy.

"Thank you, your highness." An old woman says. Miranda smiles and waves as

she feels good giving back to the people she grew up with.

She reaches in a gets another handful of gold, and drops it on the ground, a

teen girl picks it up and waves.

They arrive in the center of the town and stop. Kane dismounts his horse and

opens the door to the carriage letting the women out. They are surrounded by

people cheering and waving. King Mark dismounts his massive black percheron.

He holds out his hand and Miranda comes to him and stands next to him.

"I present your Queen, she has just returned securing Scotland for us." He

says.

The crowd that has formed cheers.

"Tonight at the castle there will be a grand party. I expect to see everyone

there to witness the marriage between my sister Mary and Prince Kane."

Miranda announces.

King Mark escorts Miranda back to the carriage and she gets inside followed

by her sisters. King Mark mounts his horse and they ride off to the castle.

"Once we get home, I have a surprise for you Mary. It is a wedding gift."

Miranda says.

"I can't wait to marry him."

"You just want to see what the wedding night is about." Miranda says joking.

Mary's mouth drops open, "Miranda Rose Callaway!" She exclaims partly out of

embarassment and knowing that she has longed to be in his bed for a while

now.

"Randa is Mr. Batista coming to the castle with us?"

"Yes, I have made arrangements for him. I spoke to the King about him. He

will be made a member of the army."

"How did you manage that?"

"I told the King that we were attack from french soldiers and that Batista

fought along side our own men and protected us. That he risked his own life

to ensure ours." She replies.

"I have noticed Kronus doesn't like him much. I wonder why?"

"Abby, have you not noticed the way Kronus looks at you?" Miranda asks

surprised at her sister's lack of observance.

"Kronus and I are just friends."

"That is what you may think...but Kronus is in love with you. He thinks

Batista is a threat."

"You mean he is jealous?"

"Aye, jealous is right. He was gonna ask permission from Da to court you

after we returned home."

"I am so confused. Do I choose Batista or do I choose Kronus?"

"Has either one said anything of that sort yet?"

"No."

"Then don't worry about it. If I had my choice for you it would be Kronus. I

trust him. I know nothing about this italian knight. I sense that he has a

dark past and I really don't wish to bring that to Scotland."

"Do you wish me to choose Kronus?"

"If it were to come down to that, yes. But after you move home with Da it

will be his choice and not mine."

"But I want your opinion, and you are still my big sister." Abigail says

hugging her sister.

The carriage stops, they look out the window and see the castle. In the

distance they see a large house on a hill. Miranda's eyes water as King Mark

comes to her and puts his arm around her. "That is your Da's house. What is

wrong?" He asks wiping a stray tear from her cheek.

She smiles, "Nothing is wrong. I am just so happy for my family. My parents

dared never even dream of a home so grand. Maybe Mary was right." She says

walking into the castle. She storms up the stairs and goes inside her

private room and sits in a chair and cries.



Chapter 23

Mary stands watching her big sister run off. She loosk up at Kane who just

tilts his head remaining silent. "I must go see what is wrong...I think I

know and it's my fault." She says before leaving. Kane just watches her,

curious about what she means.

Mark walks over to his brother, "Have any idea what that is about?" He asks.

"Not a clue. Mary seems to know." He replies.

"Well, I am off to attend to my wife. I hate when she is upset." He says

walking into the castle. Ascending the stairs he finds her room, the door is

just slightly open. He puts his hand on the heavy oak door, but stops when

he hears voices.

"Randa I didn't mean it. I am so sorry...how can I make amends?" Mary sobs.

"Even if you didn't mean it...doesn't make it any less true. Da sold me for

a house and land. I don't even deserve to be here."

"The king loves you...you have to know he does."

"Sometimes marriage just isn't about love."

"So he gave Da some land, so he paid for the house to be built. What did he

have to gain from that? Da didn't have anything of value to the

King...accept for you. Randa he has loved you for a long time."

"How do you know?" Miranda says wiping her eyes.

"Kane told me. Kane says that King Mark wanted to be sure that Da would

allow you to marry him. So he offered him land and a big house to live in

for the rest of his life." Mary says pulling her usually strong sister into

an embrace.

"So he really does love me?"

"Yes, he does."

"Good, because I love him more than anything. Now come on let's get you

ready to marry your sweet prince." Miranda says getting up and walking to

her changing room. She pulls out a long white dress. It is made of silk and

lace. Tiny buttons go up the back. Mary's eyes brim with tears. "Randa it's

beautiful." She says. "And I have these." She says handing her a box. Mary

opens it and finds a tiara crusted with diamonds, and a necklace that has

diamonds all around it, with a large ruby at the center.

"Randa this is too much, I couldn't possibly. I would never forgive myself

if it was damaged and I couldn't return it to you."

"Mary this is my gift to you, they are yours to keep. Now come on let's get

you dressed."

Mark sighs as he feels his heart breaking at the thought that his wife feels

unloved. He slowly backs away rtying to be unheard. He makes his way to

Kane's wing of the castle. He knocks on his door. "Enter." Kane says. Mark

walks inside and sits down. He finds the prince already dressed. "How do I

look?" He asks.

Mark grins, "Mary will be short of breath." He replies as kane stands

lookign in a mirror, gazing at himself. He adjusts his sporran that lays

smoothly over his kilt. His boots shine, a glossy black that he can almost

see his own image in. His white shirt flawless, under his green and red

tartan. "I still can't believe I am about to be married to the prettiest

girl in Scotland." He says running a comb through his long curls. "You

ready?" Mark finally asks. "Yes, I am." he replies as they leave the room.

They make it to the chapel, people have already been arriving awaiting the

second royal wedding of the year. Soon the room fills up, the preist

arrives. Suddenly bag pipes begin to play as Miranda walks in, she is

wearing a dark blue dress, with a red rose in her hair just tucked at her

ear. Abigail follows behind her wearing the same thing. The pipes stop as

mary walks in on her Da's arm. Kane feels his heart race at the sight of

her. Liam escorts his youngest daughter to her betrothed. He lifts her veil

and softly kisses her cheek and finds his seat next to his wife.

"Who gives this woman to this man?" The priest asks.

"Her mother and I do." Liam replies.

"We are gathered here today to witness the joining of this man and woman.

Prince Kane do you promise to love, Mary forsaking all others? Do you

promise to care for her, sick or poor? Do you promise to protect her for all

of your days?"

Kane feels tears burn his eyes, "I do." He replies smiling her.

"Do you Mary take Prince Kane to be your husband? Do you promise to love and

honor him for all of your days? Do you promise to keep him in sickness and

health forsaking him above all others?"

Mary smiles sweetly at Kane, "I do." She says her voice shaky from emotion.

"By the power vested in by the pope, and Scotland I pronounce you man and

wife." He says as he looks up he notices that Kane has already claimed

Mary's lips.

The Priest smiles, "You may continue kissing the bride."

Mary breaks the kiss and throws her arms around her new husband.

"May I present for the first time Prince Kane and Princess Mary of the clan

Callaway." He says proudly.

The couple walk out of the chapel and stand around a dark corner. Mary pulls

his head and claims his lips passionatly sliding her toungue into his mouth

while feeling his semi hard manhood. He breaks the kiss, "Later, dear wife.

Plenty of time for that later." He groans.



Chapter 24

Kane leads his new bride to the great hall where the reception is. They walk

through the door, and a herald announces them.

"Prince Kane and Princess Mary." He says proudly.

They walk into the room everyone stands and bows there heads. They find

their seats at a big table and sit down. Kane holds out the chair for Mary

then he seats himself.

"Let the party begin. I want to congratulate my brother and his new wife on

their marriage. May they be as happy as queen Miranda and I am." He says

holding up a silver goblet. Everyoen in the room toast, and they all say in

unison, "To Prince Kane and Princess Mary."

They enjoy their feast of wild turkey and watch as their guests seem to be

enjoying themselves.

"Randa may I speak to you alone?" Mary quietly asks her sister.

"Sure, come on."

Mary follows Miranda out of the room and into a secluded area down the hall.

"I am scared. I am afraid of what will happen. Will it hurt?"

"Don't be afraid, I am sure Kane will do nothing to hurt you." She replies.

"I am just so nervous."

"That is normal to feel that way. My suggestion...drink lots of wine it will

make your body relax."



"Come lets get back before my husband misses me." Mary says.

They walk back into the room and Mary smiles as she walks upto Kane and

takes him by the hand. "Let's dance a few dances and then retire to our

room." She whispers in his ear.

Kane looks at her and then smiles. "We have to stay until a few few people

start to leave." He replies. "Ok, but I have a surprise for you later." She

replies smirking. "Aye, I can't wait."

They dance to pipes playing, before they know the hour is late and the great

hall is nearly empty. Mary having drank many glasses of wine is feeling

pretty tipsy. "I feel strange." She says. "That's the wine." Kane replies.

"I am ready to go." She says playing with the end of his kilt. "I must know

what is under this." Kane tilts his head, "You know what is under there." He

says with a smile. "I would like to get to know better."

Mary walks over to Miranda and King Mark. "Thank you both for such a special

day." She says.

"You are welcome." King Mark replies.

"Anything for your happiness, dear sister." Miranda says smiling at her

sister.

Kane walks with her out of the room they ascend up the stairs and to Kane's

rooms. He opens the door, and scoops the girl up in his arms and carries her

inside. He gently lays her on the bed and sits next to her. he strokes her

long hair. She sits up, "Help me out of this dress." She says.

Getting to her feet she takes off her tiara and her jewelry and sets them on

a small table. Kane works his fingers unbuttoning the many tiny buttons

holding Mary's dress together. The dress slides off of her small frame to

the floor. She stands before him wearing nothing but her corset and her

panties. She unbuckles his sporran lettign it fall to the floor, she

unbuckles the leather strap holding his kilt closed. It falls to the floor

in a heap, lifting his shirt over his head he stands there wearing nothing

but his boots. Reaching behind her back Mary unties her corset, she pulls it

from his body leaving kane to look at her heaving chest. She gets on her

knees and unlaces his boots, leading him to the bed she pulls off the heavy

things from his feet. She moves to her back laying back on the massive

wooden canopy bed. She spreads her legs apart inviting her husband inside

of her. He grins and pulls her panties from her. He gently rubs her already

swollen clit, she jumps at his touch. "I know you are nervous, I would never

hurt you." He says soothingly.

"Come here." She moans out pulling his head down to heres. He crushes her

lips sending shivers down her spine. "I am your wife, now take me. Show me I

am yours." She says after breaking the kiss.

"Yes, My Lady." He says with his head tilted.

He presses his finger at her entrance, feeling her wetness her groans. He

climbs between her legs and finds a stiff pink nipple and licks it, he takes

it into his mouth and gently sucks on it, then the other one causing Mary to

writhe beneath him. His stiff tool now placed at her entrance he pushes

gently, breaking her barrier she gasps in pain. He stops, "No keep going."

She urges him. He begins moving slowly at first then he picks up the pace.

He feels her walls close in on him. She opens her legs farther so that her

feet are flat on the bed. He feels her go over the edge of climax. He rams

into her harder and harder, finally expelling himself into her. He stays

inside of her catching his breath, he looks into her green eyes. "I do love

you." He says. "And I you, my sweet prince." She says smiling. He pulls

himself out of her and lays next to her. Mary lays her head on his shoulder

as they fall asleep.



Chapter 25

Miranda and Mary watch from one of the towers in the castle as Kane and Mark

ride along a green hillside. "Are you happy baby sister?" Miranda asks.

Mary smiles as she watches her husband ride his enormous horse, his armour

glinting in the sunlight.

"Yes, I am. I never knew I could be this happy. It is wonderful to know love

from a great man."

"I wish I knew what that was like." Miranda says as she wipes a stray tear

from her cheek.

Mary turns and takes her sister by the shoulders. Miranda stiffens up, and

takes a breathe to say something, but Mary puts up her hand. "No, I am not

gonna listen to your Queen of Scotland speech. I am your sister, and I fel

like smacking you. Mark loves you...he loves you more than anything. I don't

know why you think he doesn't."

Miranda wiggles from her sister's grip, "How can he love me? He doesn't know

me. Our marriage was arranged...you were right." She says not able to hold

back her tears.

"Randa...he loves you just as much as he loves Scotland and he will protect

you just as Scotland."

"He doesn't act as though he does. Kane courted you...Kane wanted you from

the start...and he didn't have to give Da anything to marry you."

"I remember about 5 years ago, Mark came to the house. He spoke to Da about

you. Da told him no. Mark kept coming back until Da agreed. You remember

that bad winter we had no food...hardly anyone in town had food to put on

their tables. You remember Mother was in the kitchen and she was cooking

like crazy?"

"Yeah, what about it. I just assumed Da went hunting."

"No, Mark came to town and he gave every family chickens, a pig, and 2 sheep

to get us through the winter. Our roof that needed fixed...Mark had soem of

his men come and help Da replace it. When Tristan was sick Mark got him

medicine that Da couldn't afford. He did all of that because he loved you."

Mary says tears streaming down her face.

"Well, we are gonna see how happy he is with me soon enough. He is about to

be a father and you an aunt."

Mary throws her arms around her sister. "How long have you known?"

"I figured it out while we were in Stirling." She replies smiling.

The girls look sout of the window horrified at the scene before them. they

see french soldiers surround Kane and Mark. In seconds they hear the thunder

of war horses running mixed with the clanking of armour and swords as

Kronus, Shawn, and Batista ride into battle.

Isabelle comes running up the stone steps, "My Lady we are under attack."

She says.

"Yes, I can see that."

"Come with me, we must get where it is safe." Her hand maiden says.

"No...I am the queen of this castle and I will not go anywhere until I know

the safety of my husband."

"Or my sweet prince." Mary says.

Miranda looks out the window and sees the King, Kane and his men ride back

as the french run through the woods as fast as they can.

"See, They are completly safe. You should have more faith in your King."

Miranda chastises.

"Aye, My Lady. You should take your own advice where his heart is

concerned." Isabelle says as she curtsies and walks away.

Miranda just stares after her, she places a hand on her stomach. "Aye, she

is right."

Chapter 26

The men storm into the castle entering the King's meeting room. He takes

his seat at the front of a long table Prince Kane to his right and Kronus

and Batista to his left. he slams his fists on the table causing a loud

thud, startling the men.

"Brother calm down. We will get to the bottom of this." Kane says.

The King rises, his head turning red, his usual lively green eyes turn a

fierce dark color. He grips the heavy oak table and flips it over with ease.

"Calm down! You Prince of Scotland...General of my army...say calm down!" he

growls as he begins pacing the room. In a fit of anger he pulls his

Flamberge out of its sheath and holds the tip at Kane's throat. Kane sits

there, not moving a muscle not even breathing, he knows his brother's temper

well.

"King Mark I beg of you...don't do this. It isn't his fault."

The King looks in the diection of the voice, he walks over to Batista. He

puts the sword to his throat. "How do I know it wasn't you!"

"I have not wronged you in anyway." He replies calmly trying not to anger

him farther.

He removes his sword and sheaths it. "I want to know how they were allowed

to enter my country let alone get so close to the castle." He grunts pacing

the room.

********

"Shhh, they will hear you. Don't make me regret showing you how I know what

goes on in that room." Miranda commands of her sister.

"He sounds so angry."

"Aye he is. Can you blame him?"

"No." Mary replies fear evident in her voice.



Suddenly they hear footsteps and the door creaks open. "I suggest whoever is

out hear listening you leave before my sword finds your heart." Growls the

King's voice.

Miranda grabs her sister by the hand and rags her down the hall and up a set

of stairs. They get into her sitting room and shut the door quickly.

King Mark stands outside the door and watches them scurry away. He smiles as

he knows there was no threat of treason from his wife and sister-in-law. He

walks back into the room and loosk at his men.

"Kane I suggest you speak to your wife about what she hears in this room.

Her and Miranda were listening."

"She means no harm to you." He replies.

King Mark sits in his chair as the table is reset by Kronus. "Now let's

discuss how we can remedy this situation." he says as he is interupted by a

paige. He bows, "Excuse my lord, I have this message from King Hunter." He

says moving to the table and hands the envelope to Mark. He inspects it and

finds Hunter's seal in wax on the back of it sealing it's contents. The

paige backs away slowly, and then turns and exits the room.

After opening the envelope he reads aloud, "Check."

"What in the world is that supposed to mean?" Kronus mumbles aloud.

"It's like in chess, he is challenging me. Assemble the army...and patrol.

Report back to me in a week of what you find. Get your mercenaries out there

if you must...put an end to this before it is a war." King Mark orders.

"When do we leave?" Kane asks.

"At first light, I am sure that we are safe for the night. Kronus you will

lead, I need kane here to help protect the castle."

"yes, sire. I will not disappoint you." He says as he leaves the room to to

assemble the rest of the men with Batista following.

Chapter 27





King Mark stalks up the stairs and flings Miranda's door open so hard it

hits the stone wall on the other side. He stands there staring at his wife

and Mary. They both shrink on the setee they are sharing. Mary begins

trembling and feels tears burning her eyes. Miranda just lowers her head.

"How long were you there?" He demands.

Mary now crying hysterically. Miranda looks up at him, giving him a look as

if daggers were shooting from her eyes.

"How much did you hear?" He demands.

"Everything! We heard everything." Miranda says with anger dripping from her

voice.

"You know that what goes on in there is only between me and my men." he

replies sternly.

"Yes, I know that."

"Then why were you listening there like a common spy?"

"How else are we to know what is going on? We have a right to know. We also

have a stake in Scotland! Freedom is not only yours...and being a proud

scot is not only for you!" Miranda replies.

"We love Scotland too...and if we are to be at war we deserve the right to

know. I would proudly defend her to anyone." Mary sobs.

Mark looks at Mary just realizing he's scared the crap out of her. Looking

to his wife he sees not anger but genuine concern in her eyes.

"Is my husband to leave me so soon?"

"No, he is staying here to help me protect the castle. I do not wish to send

him away so soon after your wedding. Now I am sorry for frightening the both

of you, it was not my intention. Mirnada I love you just as I love this

country, and Mary you have felt like a baby sister to me ever since I have

known you. Please don't be frightened of me...it would break my heart."

"I have an idea, why don't you allow mary and I to sit in on your meetings?

Afterall I am your queen and she is now a princess, we do have a stake in

Scotland and we do love her as much as you or anyone else invested in her

safety." Miranda suggests.

"I can not see why not. Atleast we won't have you listening at the door and

sneaking about the castle. before I give my final word, is there anythign

else you want to tell me...dear wife?" he asks full knowing what she has

been doing in secret.

Miranda shrinks in her seat as she knows if he knew what hse was doing

behind his back he very well could be furious...but is she to just sit by

and expect the men to protect her fair country.

"What ever do you mean?"

"Randa you know full well what you are leaving our bed in wee hours of the

night to do." He says causing mary to look at her strangely.

Chapter 28

After Mark tries to get the truth out of her and fails. He gives up and

leaves the room. Mary turns to her sister, "And what may I ask are you doing

in secret." She asks curiously.

Miranda smiles and then gets up and opens the door and peers down the long

hallway and then closes the door. She then walks to the door leading to her

and the King's bedroom and makes sure he isn't on the other side and then

shuts and bolts the door. She returns to her sister's side and grins.

"I have to make sure nobody over hears us, if this got out the King may not

be that happy." She says looking at her sister for some sign of support.

"Randa...the baby is his right, please tell me that your carrying his heir."

She asks mortified.

"Yes, you silly tart! Of course he is...have you lost your wits since

marrying that big oaf of a man?"

"You can be mean to me...but don't put my husband in this...he's done

nothing to you. No spill it!" Mary demands showing her temper.

"I have been training. Thats where I go...at night. I wonder how much he

knows." She says .

"You mean for battle? Like a knight?" She asks her mouth gaping open.

"Mary, you are a princess now...don't stare at me like that it's rude. Not

very dignified for royalty." She says teasing her.

"You mean with swords and stuff?"

"Yes...with swords, axes, bows...everything. I am even learning a little

jousting for fun."

"I am shocked, no wonder the King wanted to know so bad. You can't do that

anymore...what if something happens, afterall you are carrying the next heir

to our country. Right now you the most revered woman in Scotland. You are

carrying the next generation of our land...he will lead their children. You

have a huge responsibility."

"Aye, I know. But we can't always depend on them...we have to be the strong

daughters of Scotland that they love. Yes they will protect us with their

lives...they can't always be here. The king will not let his men go to war

whilst he sits here at the castle having to protect his defensless wife...I

refuse to be defenseless...our grandmothers were defenceless as were their

grandmothers before them. I refuse to let it happen now!" Miranda replies

tears forming in her eyes.

"You better tell him what you are doing. And you better tell him he's to be

a father. Before he marches to war to farther ensure our freedom from

another tyrant." Mary commands.

"I will in the morning."

"If you don't I will...he deserves to know. Well it's been an eventful day I

will go find my husband...I suggest you go find yours."

"Aye, when did you become so strong?"

"I learned it from you. Now go tell him."

"Go find Kane, entertain your husband whilst you can." She say sdismissing

her little sister feeling quite proud she rubbed off on her.

Some hours later Miranda sneaks out of bed, and slipping through her sitting

room door. She puts on her boots, and a long black hooded cloak, she takes

out a key from her pocket and slides it into the lock and pulls out some

clothes bundled. She quickly puts on a kilt, laces her boots, and wiggles

out of her sleeping gown and puts on a white button down man's shirt, and

heavy pad over her shirt. putting her arms through the sleeves of the cloak

she slips out the other door. She quietly walks down the stairs and grabs a

lit torch off a silver holder and walks to the side entrance for the

servants. Leaving the torch just inside the castle. She scurries down the

training area just in back of the sables. Walking she quickly lights a oil

lamp and finds her armour made just special for her. She puts it on and then

opens a door and picks out a silver long sword covered in celtic knots. The

sword that Shane had made just special for her as a gift.

King Mark having gotten up and followed her from a distance. Becoming

puzzled why she would be going down here this late at night.

He sneaks inside the area and watches Miranda sword fighting with his

brother quite well. He watches her in secret, smiling at how proud he feels

about her...but can't understand why she kept it secret.

With Miranda winning and forcing the Prince to submit his blade, Mark walks

into view and claps his hands. becoming startled Miranda pulls her sword in

his direction. He jumps back in surprise, the cold look in her eye, "What if

I was a french soldier?" He asks holding his hands up to his chest. "I would

have sliced you to ribbons already." She replies moving her sword's point

off of his throat. "I am sorry you found out this way, I wanted to tell

you." She says. "Don't be sorry I am very impressed. It's not everyday a

woman can defeat the Prince of Scotland."

"he is a good teacher."

"Aye, he is. Are you done for the night? You know you can practice in the

day time now...I don't like waking in the night to find my wife gone...you

know I love you and always want you near."

Miranda smiles, "And I love you too, husband. I was fearful that you would

not approve."

He puts his arm around her, from the time I first set eyes on you I knew you

were special...I knew you would be the next queen of this great land...and I

knew that you would protect her at my side proudly. I fought with your

uncles...they were great men."

"Thank you, And you my husband are a great man too. Come let's go to bed. I

have some news to give you that I hope will make you happy."

he walks with her, his heart races wondering what else she could have hidden

from him. "You can tell me anything."

"I am carrying your next heir...I am with child." She replies nervously.

"You mean I am to be a father?" he asks excitedly.

"Yes, husband. You are to be a Da, and a great one you will be." She says as

they get to their room. He opens the door and then he takes a look at her.

Lookign at her armour, and her kilt, "You look beautiful right now...I have

never been more proud than at this moment looking at you."

"I am glad of that." She replies as he picks her up and carries her into the

room and deposits her on the bed. "So what it under that kilt of yours?" He

asks reaching up it, his hands gliding up her legs. "The same as

you...nothing." She replies as he realizes the answer. He strokes her

throbbing clit, "Good, now if we are in battle together I have easy access."

He says slowly fucking her with his finger, bringing her to climax. "How

bout you take me now, you say you love me so...prove it." She says

challenging him.

He grins at her his green eyes sparkling from the candle light. He spreads

her legs apart, and dives down on her lickign and sucking on her swollen

clit. She oozes with fluid as he licks every drop of her.

"I love you, my husband." She says pulling his face to hers and claiming his

lips.

chapter 29

King Mark lays his wife down, he lifts her kilt to her slender hips. He

drives himself into her rocking his hips against her a she meets his every

thrust. She leans into his neck, moving his long flowign red hair aside and

lightly kisses his neck letting her toungue glide down his neck to his

throat. She runs her hand down his cheek, then lustfully sucks on his neck,

he drives into her one last time expelling his seed deep inside of her. He

looks into her eyes, as she does the same to him, losing herself in his

green pools. He claims her lips slidign his toungue into her mouth exploring

every inch of it before pulling out of her. He lays beside her stroking her

long raven hair, as they both catch their breath.

Mark rolls onto his side and looks into Miranda's eyes, "So my beautiful

Queen is a warrior?" he asks. "Aye, she is." She replies runnign a hand down

his well chiseled chest. "I don't want you in battle. You are carrying the

next son or daughter to lead Scotland." He commands. "very well, My lord."

He runs a hand down her pale cheek, "Promise me that when you practice, with

the Prince that you will use wooden weapons."

"I had planned on taking a break while I am with child." She says

disappointed knowing they are a breath away from war and she would have to

sit in the castle under guardwhile she wonders if her husband, and the great

protectors of Scotland come back alive.

"There will be plenty to do here, I was thinking of appointing royal guards.

I was thinking of offering that task to you...you could be the leader. That

way you could be here under protection of the castle, and still doing your

part for Scotland...and the best part you wouldn't be in danger." He says.

Miranda looks at him and smiles. "I like that idea. Could I choose anyone I

pleased?"

"Of course, think of it as a different part of the army."

"I want Kane to council me. By the way since we adiscussing things, my

sister Mary needs a few maids."

"Alright, is there anyoen you have in mind?"

"yes, while we were in Glascow, I met the Clans McCloed and McGladery.

McGladery had a lovely daughter by the name of bridget. Her mother died in

childbirth."

"Send word to Glascow, have McGaldery come here with his daughter. These are

some things that you could start doing. This is your home too. I had hoped

you would have made yourself at home by now." He says pain evident in his

voice.

"I just assumed because our marriage was arranged that you would not have

approved of such things."

"Randa when will you see that I truly love you? I always have." he says his

accent as broagish as ever.

"I know, Mary had to make me see. And after what we just did. I know you

love me. I only hope that I might live up to your expectations. And thank

you, for everythign you did for my family to win my father's favor. I

remember that winter, if it wasn't for you we would have starved."

"You are welcome. never doubt how I feel about you."

"Never again, husband." She says as she leans and claims his lips.

Chapter 30

Kane leans over his new bride, he wipes a single tear from her eye. "Don't

cry...please I beg of you. My heart can't take it."

"But, we've only been married a few days. I don't want you to go...I forbid

you, my husband...you may not go to war...I will not allow you to make me a

widow already!" She says sniffling.

"I am not going to war. That is one thing that you can't control. The King

say's I must. Wouldn't you want me to brave enough to make sure Scotland

remains free? Don't make me a coward." He replies his temper starting to

flare.

"I am not trying to make you a coward...I don't want you to die! I am

selfish...I want you to myself in one peice...is that so wrong?" She growls

her voice full of fear and anger.

Kane kisses her lightly on the forehead, "No that isn't too much to ask. But

you know that Scotland comes before anything else. I will only be gone a

week. Can we make the most of the time I have left? I promise to come back

alive...I want nothing more than to come back to you. He says softly running

his finger down her face. She looks into his eyes and smiles. She pulls him

down and claims his lips.

He breaks the kiss and looks into her eyes. "You better make the most of it.

I am yours...I want to give you a proper send off." She says lustfully.

He bends down and claims her lips, snaking his tongue into her mouth. He

explores every inch of her mouth. She puts her arms around his neck

inviting to taste her farther. She grabs him by the hair slightly pulling on

his auburn curls. He growls in her mouth before he breaks the kiss. He

relieves her of her dress pulling it up her bedy then over her head, after

discarding the garmet on the floor. He looks down at her corset clad chest.

He watches as her chest heaves up and down from her eratic breathing. He

rips it from her body. She looks at him almost startled. She sees the desire

in his eyes, she relaxes and allows him his every whim.

She reaches to his chest and runs er hands down him unti she reaches the

waist of his kilt. She untucks his shirt and pulls it from his body

revealing his well muscled chest. She bites her bottom lip as she loosk at

him. Unpinning his kilt she watches as it falls from his hips. his erection

very evident, she smiles she pushes him to a sittign position. She gets on

her knees and take shis entire length in her mouth. Biting and licking his

member he groans holding her hair slightly bobbing her head on his cock.

He pulls her by her hair so that she is laying down again. He parts her

legs, inviting him. He starts with her neck softly nibbling her, moving down

to her chest. He take sone stiff nipple in his mouth and sucks it, he

reaches and strokes her throbbing clit. as he assaults her other breast with

his mouth. He enters her sticky center with his finger as he moves down her

belly, finnaly reaching his destination he dives into lickign up every drop

of her juices. His nibbles on her swollen clit until she climaxes again,

licking her fluid he savors her taste.

"Take me...my prince." She whispers through her heavy breathing.

"Yes, My Lady." He replies positioning his throbbing cock at her wet center.

He claims her lips passionatly before entering her. She moans loudly as his

size fills her. He slowly pushes himself inside trying not to rip her narrow

passage. He rocks his hips gently and slowly at first, getting faster and

faster until she is writhing under him. He claims a spot of her neck, biting

and sucking her, her walls tighten on him. He slows down before loses

himself. Methodicly he rams into her fater and faster...harder and harder

he empties himself into her as she screams out her climax. He kisses her as

he finishes, and then looks into her eyes. he sees nothing but love and

desire there he smiles.

Pulling himself out of her, he lays next to her catching his breath.

"I do love you." He says.

"Aye, I love you." She replies breathlessly.

"I still don't want you to go. I shall miss you."

"I will only be gone a week, and it's not war...only patrol." he replies

stroking her hair.

Chapter 31

Kane meets with his men, gathering weapons in the armory. "Batista you are

with me, Kronus I want you to stay here and protect the queen and her

sisters. Shawn you are coming with me as well as the king. We leave in an

hour." He says sheathing both his great swords down his back. He picks up a

set of throwing axes and carries them as he walks to the stables and readies

his horse. Once his horse is ready he leaves it in the stall. Leaving the

stable he enters the castle finding his brother already to go.

"My horse is ready, I hope your men are as well."

"They are doing so as we speak. I instructed Kronus to stay here with the

girls. I do not trust batista...there is something about him that doesn't

feel right." Kane says.

"I trust Kronus with my life. And I agree with you, that Batista is hiding

something. I found out he is descendant of Templar knights. Could be a

reason for the french coming here."

"What did you want to do about the message you recieved from Hunter?"

"Sent word to him before first light. Miranda is sending word to the Clans

McCloed and McGladery they will be here to help her with a new installment

of our military that she is head of."

Kane tilts his head, "Have I not done my duty?"

"No, nothing like that. She is in charge of appointing royal guards." King

Mark replies.

"I know that will make her feel less helpless."

"I will meet you in the stable soon, I must say goodbye to my wife." Kane

says taking his leave.

King Mark leaves the castle and walks to the stable and finds his horse and

mounts the solid black percheron. Adjusting his weapons, he is ready and

rides to the small courtyard. He is met by Batista and Shawn.

"Batista ride with me, a minute." He commands.

Batista follows him atop his own horse. "Yes, sire. I feel somethign is

weighing on your mind."

"Yes, there is. I have recieved word that you are descendant of Knights

Templar is this so?"

"Yes, My Lord. My great grand father was a Templar. Since then my family

has protected the pope."

The king just looks at him, "You stick close to me, I do not trust you." He

demands.

"I mean you no harm, Sire." He replies a sinking feelign in his heart. He

sits there wondering if the french found out he was here. He is one of the

last of his kind and it would please King Hunter to finish the job that his

grandfathers started.

King Mark and Batista ride back over to Shawn just as Kane rides out of the

stable on his horse. They ride off the castle grounds and out into the

wilderness.

***Paris***

"My Lord, a scot paige has arrived with a message."

King Hunter looks up and grins. "Well show him in." He replies.

The paige walks into the room and bows, he hands King Hunter a piece of

parchment, sealed with King Mark's crest in wax. Hunter takes it and laughs

as he opens it. His brown eyes become the size of saucers. "Check Mate! That

ignorant scot has some guts don't he?" He stammers.

"You give your king this message from me, tell him I know that he has a

Templar and I want him. Release the man to me and I will leave his

insignificant country alone. Scotland has nothing I want." He states.

"Yes, sire." The paige replies before leaving.

***Scotland***

"Shane I have a special job for you."

"Yes, My Lady."

"I wish you to go to Glascow, and give this letter to McGladery and

McCloed."

"Yes, My Lady. I will leave right away."

After a few days riding and seeing nobody, King Mark and Kane run into

french soldiers, they are grossly outnumbered. Fighting a bloody battle

Batista falls with a sword in his chest and an axe in his back. King Mark

and Kane seem almost unscathed as the battle commences. Kane looks at his

brother. "We better get him to the castle for a proper burial." He says as a

french general dismounts his horse. "He was all we wanted. I need to take

him back to my king."

"You mean this was all over a Templar? Your king was willing to start a war

over this man?"

"He must not have told you why he was ousted from the vatican. He was there

when the pope was slain. He failed to protect him."

"Tell your king to not step foot in Scotland ever again." Mark says.

"Scotland has nothing but uneducated farmers, we want nothing with your...so

called country." He says as few of his men left the fallen italian on his

horse.

"Uneducated farmers." Mark says in disgust.

"Why did you take that?" Kane asks.

"He can say whatever he wants, but we know the truth. We are a land of

warriors. If he wants to think we are uneducated farmers, let him." King

Mark says as they ride home.

"How are we gonna tell Abby, about Batista?" Shawn asks.



"There was a reason that Kronus stayed. He has been courting Abby. I wanted

to seal that in her mind."

"That italian was not getting near her." King Mark replies.



Chapter 32

The men ride towards the castle, as Miranda watches with a telescope. They

come into view as she counts the riders. Now close enough to see their

faces. She exhales her held breath. Her slowing it's pace stiffling that

fear in her heart that her husband would not return. She hears footsteps,

turning she smiles as she is greeted by Kronus. He bows his head, "My Lady,

riders approach." He says.

Miranda smiles, "Aye, they do...your king has returned." She replies handing

him the telescope. He looks through and smiles at the sight of his best

friend.

"We should go and greet them, "Care to join me on a ride?" He asks extending

his hand. Miranda smiles, amuzed at his mock formalities she accepts his

hand and allows him to lead her to the stables. They arm themselves incase

of hidden enemies. Sliding her long sword into it's sheath, she mounts her

horse. Waiting for Kronus as he sheaths his claymore. They ride off into

the hillside.

"I hear horses." Kane says pullign his great sword out as if he were

anticipating a battle.

King Mark looks on thehorizon and he sees to peopelk approaching fast, "Calm

yourself brother. They are our own." He says calmly having an idea exactly

who it is.

They ride closer to each other and King Mark can see her flowing black hair

blowing in the wind as her horse carries her to him. He grins and looks

over at Kane who rides beside him, and then urges his horse to run faster.

Miranda does the same as she runs towards him. finally they pass one another

pullign their horses to a stop. Miranda's black and white percheron breathes

heavily and paws the ground as she turns him and rides up to her husband.

She stops her horse along side of him.

"Welcome, home husband." She says catching her breathe.

"Aye, thank you, wife." He says jumping off his horse, he helps Miranda down

from hers. He stands her and looks her over. Her white shirt and silver

breast plate, his eyes going down and looks at her kilt, with his Tartan

tied into her sporran. Her Long sword sheathed at her side.

"I trust you kept our home safe?" He says.

"Aye, husband...we have." She says looking into his green eyes, that are

leaking desire. He bends down and kisses her deeply. He picks her up by her

waist and hugs her tightly.

"Let's go home." She says.

He nods to her, "Maybe we ought to take our own ride." She says looking at

him lustfully. He grins, and leads her into the nearby woods. They ride

single file through a small trail. Finally at a clearing under a huge oak

tree. He dismounts his horse and helps her from hers. He kisses her, and

then brings her under the tree. He lays her down and claims her lips again,

exploring her mouth. His hands roam down her waist, finding the end of her

kilt, he raises it up her thighs. He reaches inside her panties and strokes

her swollen clit. She moans in his mouth as he begins moving faster over the

now wet and swollen nub. She can feel his cock rising next to her. She

breaks the kiss, needing the air. "Take me." She pleads. Mark looks into her

eyes, and lays her head gently down and moves between her legs, spreading

them apart. Miranda lays her head back expectign his cock to enter her, her

body shivers with anticipation. To her surprise she feels his wet toungue

lighting her on fire with every flick againt her slit. She pushes her hips

to him, giving him more of her. His toungue darts in and out of her center,

her walls close in everytime he does that. Finally he puts his tool at her

entrance, slowly he pushes himself into her. She gasps as she hasn't felt

his size in a few weeks. She opens her legs even farther to allow him better

access. Her hips begin meeting his as he slamming into her, her climax

squeezes him so hard he can't hold it anylonger and explodes into her as she

lets out a climactic scream.

King Mark props himself onto his elbows and loosk into her eyes. "I love

you, my wife." He says.

"I know, and I love you aswell." She replies pulling his face down to hers,

and claims his lips.

"We best be getting back. Kronus will worry." Miranda says.

"You are right, besides I want to get home, and do more of that." he says

helping Miranda to stand.

The mount their horses and ride back into the open country side leading them

to the castle. They find Kronus, Kane and Shawn looking for them. Miranda

flashes her husband a wicked smile, "You boys lost or soemthing?" She asks.

Kane looks up, Well do you think it would be ok, if I reunited with my wife

too?" he growls, not happy at what he suspects they were doing.

Chapter 33

Mary comes running from the castle with Abigail following close behind her.

Abby upset that Kronus left without so much as a goodbye. Mary jumps into

Prince Kane's arms as she throws her arms around his neck. She looks into

his mismatched eyes and claims his lips. Her toungue coaxing his mouth open,

almost immediatly allowing her access to him. He breaks the kiss and looks

into her brown eyes. "I have missed you, my wife." He says. "I thought you

would never come back.

Abigail finds Kronus and watches him put his horse away and then walk to

her. "I am sorry, if I worried you. The Queen wished to meet her husband and

I had to come with her." He says kissing her hand lightly. She smiles at

the sensation, and then loosk around. "Mr. Batista isn't with you." She

states. "Aye, he fell in battle." King Mark says. "Is he dead?" She asks not

understanding why the good king would leave a fallen soldier on the ground

to suffer. "Yes, miss Abby, we brought him back with us so he can have a

proper burial." he replies. Abby just looks at Kronus, "I already made up my

mind anyway." She says and then walks off.

Both Kane and Mark looks at her strangely. "What is that about?" Kane asks.

"Batista was getting a little too froward with her, and she didn't like it."

Miranda answers. Kronus spins his head around, "He was what? With my

Abigail?" He growls his scot temper flaring. Miranda touches him on his

forearm, "Not to worry, he didn't get far with her. He tried to kiss her and

she made sure he wouldn't be thinking of that for awhile. it is you she

wants...it has been you that she has always wanted."

Kronus looks at her hopeful, "Does that mean you have an answer for me?" He

asks shyly. Mirand asmiles, "You have my blessing. But you must speak to my

father. He already knows that I approve." She says smirking at him.

Abigail smiles as she over hears the whole conversation. She walks away from

the stables and back into the castle.

Miranda smiles as she knows there is yet another party and another wedding

to plan. Of course not having it any other way. Her life has changed so

drastically over the last 6 months. Her father went from a poor farmer to a

wealthy nobleman. Her mother no longer has to work her fingers to the bone

to help put food on the table. Her sisters are both in love with wonderful

men. Putting her hand over her growing stomach, she knows that her life

isn't a fairy tale...or is it. She knows in her heart that she will be happy

and taken care of her whole life as will the people she loves most in the

world...her family. No longer is she that poor common girl...but the most

powerful woman in Scotland and she is carrying their next king.

The End.