A Lady's Charade (Medieval Romance Novel) Read Online Free Page A

wasn’t warm attire when the chilly air hit it, cooling it to the touch. He shifted on Hero, and thanked God there had not been any snow yet.
    Alexander and his men traveled for nigh on two weeks to get to South Hearth. Once they’d crossed the pond from France, they’d ridden slowly and stealthily through the nights and slept most of the days, so they wouldn’t be seen. They didn’t want to take a chance the people of South Hearth would be warned of their impending arrival.
    He intended to overtake the village, the keep, the people, and to marry the daughter of Baron Fergusson without a fight. From the looks of the place, there may be only fifty knights inside. However, from what the king said, the baron was a tricky man. Perhaps he would be smart enough to keep his knights well hidden. Alexander didn’t let the idea of men just as stealthy as his own, surrounding him right then and there, flit too long in his mind.
    He kept a keen ear for any noise, and signaled to his best lookouts to search the area for any sign of another army. When the lookouts returned they informed Alexander they were alone. A satisfied smile crossed his lips.
    The Dragon was back.
    Alexander signaled to a few of his men to follow him out onto the field. They carried the Dragon’s crest on one flag as well as a white flag signaling to the archers, friends approached. Shouting could be heard from atop the battlements, but Alexander and his men continued to move forward.
    “Guard, open the gate,” Alexander shouted.
    “State your name and purpose.”
    “It is I, Lord Alexander of Hardwyck. I have come to have words with your master on behalf of his majesty, Henry V, King of England.”
    “My master knows no such name or of your arrival.”
    The king’s fears of Fergusson turning against the treaty were indeed true. “Surely he knows the name of the King of England, for he occupies an English castle. Go and tell him.”
    The guard looked confused. He opened his mouth to speak and then closed it again.
    Another guard came to speak to Alexander. “We have orders from our lord not to let you enter.”
    “I suggest you open your gates immediately or risk that I shall take both your heads.”
    The guards laughed, making Alexander’s blood boil.
    “Open the gates at once for your new master,” he bellowed.
    The guards stopped their laughter and looked down at Alexander.
    “Our new master? What say you I put an arrow through your heart?” the new guard said.
    “I say then you will have to deal with my army, and yet another new master who will not be as forgiving. Should you happen to live, which is doubtful, you will be tried for treason against the king, tortured and then die a horrendous death—your body scattered across the north, south, east and west.”
    They chewed on his words a minute and then disappeared.
    “Edward, signal the rest of the men to join us. These buffoons do not realize the seriousness of the situation. Perhaps our numbers can force them to open the gates.”
    As Alexander sat upon his horse on the grounds in front of the great wall, he assessed the impressive castle. Despite the land having fallen into his father’s hands, he had yet to venture this far north. The castle rose high into the sky beyond the walls. Tall turrets were placed on either end. The long structure in the middle was lit up by torches and candles. It was teaming with life.
    Movement caught his attention and Alexander looked up. As he stared at what would soon be his, a covering slid back from an upper window. Out stared what could only be described as a glorious vision.
    Dark long hair flowed around her. She was missing the traditional crispine and reticulated head-dress that many of the women at the English court wore. He’d seen some Scotswomen in passing and they’d worn a covering too, but not this maiden. Her hair cascaded in waves around her. A chill passed through him, and he had to suppress a shudder. She was a daring woman. What else