Acknowledgements: This story was written for Alice.

The very talented artist  Maria has honored The Black Knight and the Lady story by presenting me with a wonderful sketch depicting the story's characters.  I have posted the sketch and you can find it by clicking here.  Please take a look at her other work at http://www.dtlart.8m.com

They do say that legends are all fantasy!

Let me tell you reader that what is one person’s fantasy can quite easily be another’s reality and visa versa. If the simple expression ‘Once Upon A Time’ does not evoke a pleasant reaction out of every reader, then please by all means go elsewhere for this is a short story for the true romantic within us all!

~ ~ ~

Once upon a time…

Alicia Lascelles had watched King Arthur from the shore be lost among the mists of the river that beheld the great sword Excalibur. It’s timeless ethereal backdrop a fitting place to send the one true king of England upon his death.

What of the ladies in waiting to King Arthur’s Queen now?

The loss of the King and the apparent vows she had decided to take in the church bringing to a close an era of magic, mystery, chivalry and romance or had it?

Alicia, the proud daughter of a French nobleman, who had affiliated his sword to the King, and had sent his eldest daughter as a pledge of good faith to be a lady in waiting for the young queen. For the last four years, Alicia had been a faithful friend to the troubled young monarch. The queen's infatuation with the dashing knight Lancelot, had caused so much anguish to her lord King Arthur. Now, what would become of her? Having beautiful strawberry blonde hair that shone in the sunlight and brightened the darkest day, with a smile that filled her whole face with delight and the green eyes that sparkled with the sheer enjoyment of life, she had spurned the attentions of most of the knights that had tried in vain to court her.

Yet, there was one such Knight that had paid little or no attention to her at court. His name had been Sir Edwin D’Argent. There were many suitors, but she had declined them all, her eyes had been snared by the blue eyes of the knight that ignored her at every approach, who’s eyes matched the very skies on a wonderfully clear day. Where was the noble knight now that the battle had ended? Was he also a victim of the foreigners who had tried, but failed to conquer the lands of the proud King Arthur?

“Milady, it is time to ride back to Camelot. The skies grow dark with the cloud of death that has taken our good King.” Sir Arnold Debouis quietly spoke to the small woman who had captured his heart, but scorned it time and time again. She was not for him that was certain in this life.

Turning Alicia looked at the boyish features of the Knight who had remained constant in his affections for her. Yet, she had never returned any, but to scorn them politely.

“Camelot? Sir Knight will the castle not decay now that our Lord King has gone back to the place of the ancient legends?”

“Milady, Camelot will stand; as we the Knights of the Round Table will stand for all the values that our King taught us. We will let it stand for all time with the stories that are spoken; for the songs that are written of the adventures and the essence of the reign when Arthur came to us as a mere boy. Even then, as he showed the spirit of a great King within such a frail body! Camelot will stand for the justice of our land. The love of our people, Milady, that can never decay.”

“In thee, I trust Sir Knight. Please, lead on and take us back in safety to Camelot.” Alicia looked around at the prone bodies of those that had given their life as Arthur had done. The carnage made her stomach churn. What of her solitary knight of the sky blue eyes?

“Lady I will not betray your trust.” Sir Arnold Debouis walked ahead of the young woman and with instinct battle ready and the hilt of his sword glistening with the remnants of blood of the foreigners.

Alicia could not help herself and asked as she was helped with a steel gauntlet covered hand to mount the horse that had been readied for her. The other three ladies in waiting having gone before her, unable to watch their lord King disappears for the final time, into the mist of legend.

“Have we lost many knights in the battle Sir Debouis?” The French lilt of her voice was distinct, but pleasant to the smitten man at her side.

“We have lost several Knights of the Round Table, as well as many Knights of the provinces. Today was not a good day for anyone.” Sir Debouis spoke in his clipped Norman dialect.

Alicia nodded her head and looked across the battlefield as they left the area, for both of them never to return again.

~ ~ ~

Alicia had been waiting patiently for her father for over a year to send an escort to enable her to leave Camelot. The castle that was now besieged with doubt and petty bickering between not only the peasants, but the noblemen and women too! It had been a long wait and her need to leave the place had become overpowering as the days went on. Long had she felt that her heart had been broken when the solitary Knight with the sky blue eyes had not returned from the battlefield. Now, she wanted only to go home and see her family in Normandy.

“My lady there is a strange Knight at the gates who says he has a message from your father.” The coarse guttural voice of the head maid said and passed her a parchment with the seal of her father’s house.

Glancing at the first message she had received from home in over three years, she quickly broke the wax seal and as the pieces of wax fell at her feet she looked at the contents.

My daughter Alicia,

I am now no longer able to collect you myself as the last battle has severely wounded me and left me at the mercy of my friend’s generosity.

Please go with the noble knight that bares this parchment, for he has pledged his sword to your well being and was instrumental in saving my life on a dark night. This deed resulting in him being unable to be with the good King Arthur in the last battle of his life.

I trust him my daughter. Please do as he says, although, he says little and you will return home safely.

He will only refer to himself as the Black Knight, please respect that daughter as you give me your respect.

My love as always, dear daughter. Safe journey home.

Your loving father, Count Henri Lascelles.

Alicia clutched the parchment to her breast. She looked around the room and retrieved a lace shawl, draping it over her shoulders. Looking at the weather beaten face of the head maid, she then motioned her to lead the way to the Knight.

The night air was cool as winter approached. Although the shawl gave some protection from the coolness of the night, the dampness of the night air clung to her encroaching on the warmth of her own body heat.

The battlements, as always, were heavily guarded. The glimpse now and again with the flicker half light of a torch in the recesses of the castle caste more shadow than light. The whole appearance gave a dark evil intent as night fell. Walking quickly, she was annoyed at the slow gait of the maid that would show her the means to go home! As with everything in life patience cannot always be cultivated. Alicia sighed at the delay, but nonetheless slowed her own steps to match that of the servant.

“He be there.” The maid pointed to a dark figure in the deepest black armour she had ever seen. Although, the light, or lack of it, could be playing tricks with her eyes.

“Thank you.  I will not need you again. You may go!” Alicia said softly then looked at the Black Knight before her. The Knight had yet to turn his back so she could see the face of the man, who, had not only saved her father’s life it would seem. But, also had pledged his sword and in so doing, his life to her for the journey home.

“Sir Knight, you are here at the bequest of my father, Count Henrie Lascelles?” Alicia asked the Knight, who, she noticed stiffened at her voice.

“Yes,” a low voice hardly distinctive was barely heard by the anxious young woman.

“I thank you Sir Knight for saving his life.” Alicia watched the Knight. He did not turn. He stood erect in the dark armour that protected his body and would in the near future protect hers as well.

“Your father is a true knight of the realm of the late King Arthur. It would have been a sorry day indeed that I leave such a fine ally to die at the hands of cut throats who did not know his worth.” The Black Knight stated, his voice low, causing Alicia’s heart to pound at its timbre.

“My father believed in the King. He had many times laid his sword at the Kings side. So, tell me where did you meet my father?” Alicia saw the brief stiffening of the armour-clad figure before her. She wondered why? It was an innocuous question surely!

“I was on my way to seek permission to woe the hand of the one I love. I was on the same road that evening when tragedy struck your father. Providence saw that your father was not forsaken and that I could aid him and in so doing save his life.” The Knight spoke in a soft tone.

“So, after this event, you managed to finish your own deed; which is very important nonetheless, if it was the hand of the woman you loved?” Alicia, for some strange reason was hurt that the Knight had a sweetheart.

“No! No, I had to relinquish the deed for another time. Our good King Arthur needed all the knights he could muster. But, I came too late! For that, I will be eternally cursed and my line, I fear,” the Knight responded, his voice barely carrying to the pensive woman still unable to see the knight who had not turned to see her.

“Then, I hope one day you can continue your quest to seek the hand of the one you love.” Alicia stated sincerely.

“If that is my fate, I will welcome it.”

“And if it’s not?” Alicia questioned, her curiosity peeked at the reply.

“I will work towards the redemption Milady. I need to fulfil the life I have left to me.” It was a quiet admission of a guilt, which to Alicia had no bearing on the situation. Or, was that not the reason for the Knight’s being on the road to help her father.

“Redemption is only for those that have done wrong. Saving my father was not wrong!” Alicia replied earnestly.

The Black Knight stood a silent statue for several minutes. Alicia thought that he had finally decided not to answer. Stepping forward, she put a hand out to touch the gauntlet, the cold steel sending a shudder up her spine.

“The saving of your Father was perhaps a blessing in disguise for events yet actioned,” the enigmatic response for Alicia could have no reply in her mind.

“My father said to trust you Sir Knight. But please, do you have a name?” A plea that Alicia never realised came from the heart until the sounds echoed in her ears.

The Knight in question sighed heavily. The heavy gauge steel armour that he worn clanked in a tone that indicated careful movement of well kept possessions. Turning for the first time in the darkness and facing the woman that he was to escort to Normandy as the darkness preventing the observer from making any particular appreciation of the true personality of the knight in question, “My name Milady for our journey, is simply Black Knight.” The quiet tones of the Knight splite the air like the swift blow of a sword in a parry with an opponent.

Alicia was entranced with the mystery of the Knight before her; it sparked her attention for the first time since she had felt the terrible loss of the Knight with the sky blue eyes. And yet, she had never heard that he had died, or anything else about him for that matter! Perhaps there was hope? Yes, there was always hope in every situation.

“Sir Black Knight, when are we leaving?” Alicia asked quietly. She so wanted to see the Knight in the daylight and see…see what? She did not know, but she would find out come the morrow.

“At your leave Milady. The earlier, the better in my mind,” came the low voice her heart had reacted to at first hearing.

“I will need to take my leave from the Knights of the Round Table. Perhaps, you know some of them?”

The Black Knight turned once again to his observation of the inky blackness of night that had descended.

“None that would know of me!”

It was a cryptic remark Alicia wanted to understand, but the very stance of the Knight betrayed his annoyance at the question - another time perhaps.

“I will take leave of you Sir, and of the morrow we will journey to my home as my father wishes.” Alicia finally conceded that the conversation, which had shed little light on the dark figure before her, was ended.

“I will wait for you at the gates at your leisure Milady,” the Bblack Kknight turned once again to observe the young woman.

“As you wish Sir. Goodnight.” Alicia turned away, not waiting for a reply and walked back towards the main keep of the castle and her room. Tonight, not only did she have plans to make, but also her mind was awash with the differing feelings-of was it familiarity with the Black Knight? Tomorrow things would be different. The light of day often shed its rays in the most unexpected places.

~ ~ ~

The Black Knight stood on the hillock observing the heat of a fierce battle of the Knight he beheld, which had been surrounded by the marauding peasants, who had beset the older Knight. The Knight was obviously taken unawares on his way to the battlefield in King Arthur’s support. Several blows with the primitive pike of the peasants had knocked off the helmet of the older Knight. Then to the searching gaze of the Black Knight beheld a man known, or at least from a distance anyway, the Count Lascelles. His allegiance to King Arthur had been of great help with his well-trained forces from Normandy. He was helping to seek out traitors who landed on the French shores. Now, the old man needed help. What better way to train for the battle that was waiting then to despatch some of these peasants to their maker.

The Black Knight rode like the wind towards the small battle area. To his amazement, many of the peasants ran in fear as he chargeds the black stallion towards the fray. The older Knight saw his opportunity to make a few pathetic blows of his own with the short dagger he still possessed. As the Black Knight chargeds towards the half dozen offenders, they went scattering in every direction as the long staff he wielded with precision gave many a headache of gigantic proportions. As the peasants realised that the Black Knight, who looked fearsome was, also, as fearsome in battle, they gradually moved away from the prone figure. A couple tried, but failed to dismount the demonic horseman in his attempts to eliminate them.

As all the peasants who could run, walk or stagger made haste away from the two Knights that left only the dead.

“Kneel Raven!” the Black Knight commanded his stead. The magnificent beast obeyed immediately, dropping his forelegs and then the hindquarters to allow the Black Knight to dismount without the need for a Paige to assist him.

The Black Knight approached the older Knight and carefully scrutinised the injuries that could be seen. Moving slowly closer, not to cause further distress to the injured party, the Black Knight spoke softly, “Can you ride Sir Knight?”

Count Lascelles looked at the rather menacing figure before him. The height alone from his position on the ground made the Knight very intimidating. "I have to do so. Our King needs all the swords he can muster for the battle ahead.” The older Knight muttered in a heavy French accent.

“You are in no position to help the King, Sir. I will escort you to safety and help to attend your wounds. Then go on my way to offer my sword and apologise for your absence. The King will understand.” The Black Knight replied slowly and watched through his visor that shadowed his eyes, which also refused to allow enough light inside to give the onlooker any idea of his facial attributes.

Count Lascelles realised the folly in trying to go to King Arthur’s aid and accepted the generous, if unsolicited help from the unknown Knight. “Sir Knight what name does one call you?”

The Black Knight stood as if the words had turned him to stone. Hesitating for only a moment before he spoke  "Let it be known that I answer only to the Black Knight." Striding forward he held out his black gauntlet arm and watched as the older man grasped it. They managed eventually to bring the knight to his feet, the heavy armour being a major hindrance in the task.

“As you wish Black Knight. We must hurry for you need to be back for the battle. And what a battle it promises to be." Count Lascelles spoke with enthusiasm.

“Yes! I believe it will be a glorious battle. One to tell the grandchildren.” The Black Knight answered very seriously in a wistful voice as they moved towards the black stallion that waited patiently for his master’s command.

Yet, it had never been a glorious battle for either of them. The Count had a severe wound that bled continuously the entire journey to the inn that housed some of the servants of the older Knight. They had been unable to stop the flow. It was highly likely that the Ccount would die without proper help. The Black Knight did the only thing he could. He sought out help that would aid the injured man and the battle was over before he could return. King Arthur had died at the battle. Now all was lost, or appeared to be. There was no more, the trueborn King of England.

The Black Knight had travelled the country; along with others also in the crusade, to redeem himself from the inability to fight at the Kings side, bringing back the message that the King had entrusted to his name. He had only agreed to this one request by the ailing Count, because it was felt that he neared his end and he wanted to see his eldest daughter one last time!

Now, he was here. So was she. Together they would journey to her home. Then, he would leave to follow his own lonely path!

~ ~ ~

Chapter Two

Alicia watched the tall Black Knight gently stroke the muzzle on his black as night stallion. She was once again taken over by the feeling that she knew this particular Knight. And yet, she had never seen one such knight at the court of King Arthur. As she approached his position, the hand that was gently stroking the horse now stopped and the Knight turned.

Alicia had to stifle a feeling of disappointment as the visor on the black helmet, which the Knight wore, was closed. The face of her companion on the journey was once again indecipherable to the onlooker. This Knight certainly wanted to keep his identity a secret from everyone. Perhaps it was only here that the deed was necessary. Perhaps on the road together, she would at least know his face, if not his true name.

“I’m ready to leave Black Knight. I have my possessions on the cart and my horse is saddled and waiting.” Alicia duly informed her protector for the journey home.

The Black Knight turned from his task and looked through his visor to see the beautiful young woman standing erect and proud waiting for his instructions. “So I see Milady. I will be ready to leave shortly. If you have friends you wish to say a final farewell to, I will wait.”

Alicia considered the offer and then shook her head. “No. I await your leave. There is nothing for me here now.”

The Black Knight moved away from the woman and was about to return towards the market in the town that was on the outskirts of Camelot castle when he stopped at the mention of his name. “YOU! Sir Black Knight wait!” Sir Debouis shouted as he came within yards of the Knight who was to return the lady he loved to her home.

Alicia frowned at the entrance of Arnold Debouis. What on earth did he want with the man before her?

The Black Knight stood silently. Waiting for the other Knight to approach and within his helmet, he smiled at the rather flushed cheeks of the slightly over weight Knight. A Knight he knew had wanted to escort the lady home on several occasions for the opportunity to ask her Father’s permission for her hand in marriage. Even though she herself had said no to the Knight frequently.

Count Lascelles had dismissed Debouis’s idea and selected the Black Knight to return his much missed oldest daughter to his side. He sorely wanted her home, as she was very good company, always happy, and he had sorely missed her during her absence to King Arthur’s court.

“Who are you Black Knight that has permission to take the Lady Lascelles to her home and family?” Debouis demanded arrogantly.

“I was given the task by her own father. The Lady has his letter, if she chooses for you to view it.” The Black Knight spoke clearly in an actuarial way, but with a cold menace to his words.

Sir Debouis looked at Alicia for confirmation. Her head moved in ascent as she reached inside her gown to retrieve the said letter. “As you see Sir, the Black Knight is correct in his entrusted charge from my Father.”

“Alicia, you do not know with whom you travel. Have you even seen the face of this so-called Knight? Has anyone? Even your father? How do we know he is honourable and the same person your Father thinks he is?”

“Sir, may I remind you, for that slur on my honour, you must allow me to fight you in combat, this day!” the Black Knight fairly seethed with anger at the other Knights arrogant attitude to his honourable intentions.

“It will be my pleasure Black Knight. Then, we will see who fits the true Knight of the realm to take this Lady home.”

Debouis knew he was at a disadvantage in height and therefore chose the poleaxe as a weapon on foot.

Within the hour, both Knights were in a circle arranged by various spectators; not least of which, was the Lady Lascelles, who watched the personal battle over honour commence.

As with all hand-to-hand combat, much of it was the parry and sidestepping that made it more of a dance than a dangerous pastime. Both Knights were equal in the ability to side step vicious attempts by the other to make the first strike.

However, the first strike did indeed come. It was the Black Knight whose attention had been momentarily lost as the sight of the Lady Lascelles came into view.  Her face held not fascination as most ladies did in this type of encounter but she looked fearful and anxious. Debouis had his opportunity and managed the engage his poleaxe in the visor of the black helmet tangling it there.

As the Black Knight eventually managed groggily to displace the weapon, blood appeared at it’s tip signifying that a blow had indeed made a mark. The Black Knight momentarily stunned managed to weave out of several more attempts to make more marks. As the bravado of the other Knight increased so came the opportunity to strike a blow in retaliation and he aimed the poleaxe spike directly at the shoulder of the Knight. The force cleaving open the armour and planting itself firmly in the shoulder blade, thus ensuring the Knight fell to the ground in agony.

The Black Knight watched the crowd rush forward and encompass one of their own, shielding him from further harm.

One person stood alone on the circle of the battlefield and the Black Knight looked with quizzical eyes at the Lady Lascelles and bowed gallantly towards her. She had several tears in her eyes and the traces of tears that had already been shed. The Black Knight moved towards her, “We are ready to leave now Lady. No better time than now, I feel.” The softly spoken words defied the Knights daunting prowess on the field of battle.

“Do you not wish to attend to your injuries?” Alicia asked hims equally softly and noticed the red stain that now marked the neck of the man; the white flesh stained with the red liquid of life.

“No!” The Black Knight went towards the stables and found their respective mounts. Within a short space of time, they were at the gates of Camelot being allowed to leave. Alicia took a backward glance at the place she had called home for the last five years. The cart laden with her possessions ambled along several yards behind them.

Alicia did not regret her taking leave. Her only sorrow was her inability to find out what had happened to Sir Edwin D’Argent. Now, she would never know. Sighing heavily she had not noticed that the Black Knight was alongside her and heard the sound.

“You are sorry to leave?” The man asked at her side.

Alicia was surprised at the question. Why would he care?

“No, no not really. My one regret is that I never found out about someone I cared for. They never returned from battle. It has always plagued me the loss of one so alone and yet!”

“And yet?” The Black Knight reined his black stallion closer to the chestnut mare that she rode proficiently.

“Yet, he did not care for me as I…never mind. It is long over.” Alicia glanced towards the green pastures that gave them a reasonable element of safety from the bandits on the road, but no protection. She smiled as she thought. For hadn’t she her own protection now? He was called the Black Knight!

As nightfall came the Knight saw fit to have a log fire positioned in the hollow between the forest and the open road. It was a suitable place to take care of the safety issues for the Lady. Settling her in the cart for the night, the Knight spoke quietly to the cart driver, and then left the area towards the stream that was hidden behind the staggered trees.

Several minutes had eroded. Alicia became worried about the Knight for if it was water only that he had foraged for, then that was in abundance close by. Perhaps, he was hurt rather more than he had at first allowed. Silently she reached for a warm cloak and quickly descended from the cart without the knowledge of the driver, who was busily eating pieces of the rabbit they had roasted earlier for their meal.

Alicia was to find the Knight and to this day she wasn’t sure who was the most surprised by the encounter. Her or the Knight! For before her she saw that the helmet had been taken off and long flowing ebony hair greeted her as the Knight with his back turned was bathing the injuries he had received.

“Please let me?” Alicia said gently and her next words were lost as she encountered the most beautiful eyes she would ever see in her life. Sky blue. The eyes of one, Sir Edwin D’Argent!

“Edwin?”

The Black Knight didn’t have time to replace the helmet. He was taken totally unawares as the beautiful woman came to stand at his left side. Without conscious thought the secret face of the Black Knight was revealed to the Lady. The sky blue eyes that ensnared the green eyes, which now looked at the Knight with recognition--puzzlement and finally, shock as the name passed her lips in question.

Standing to full height the Knight continued to look deep into green eyes and a small smiled played along the full lips wryly.

“No, Milady, as you see, I am not a man, therefore Edwin would not be appropriate. I am Edwina D’Argent Lion, eldest daughter of the first Knight of the round table, Sir David Lion, who was lost to the Crusades many years ago.”

The softly spoken words captured Alicia’s attention as her eyes roamed freely over the face that she had never seen. Yet, she had. Her heart had seen it and loved it. Yes, loved it from a distance. The only thing she could think to do was place her hand tenderly to the injured cheek that bore the mark of the earlier bout.

The Black Knight relished the touch of the Lady, who had been in her heart from the first day she had arrived at the court of King Arthur and swore her allegiance to the King. Who had been the only one to know that Sir Edwin D’Argent wasn’t a man, but the Lady Edwina D’Argent Lion; the only child of his great mentor and early friend, David Lion? The secret had been kept and taken to the grave with the King. Edwina had been despatched on an urgent recognisance task earlier that day prior to the battle, and been delayed with the details to Arthur because of the Father of the Lady before her. ‘Had he know, would he still be alive today? That was always the question? One never to be answered in this lifetime.’

“Why? Why did you want to live your life a man?” Alicia asked quietly and gently pulled the cloth that was being used to wipe away the blood on the woman’s cheek. Placing the cloth in the cool water, she returned it to it’s task and proceeded to wipe away the traces of blood, leaving only a jagged cut that might heal, but, probably would leave a scar.

“I was my father’s only child. We travelled the Crusades and he taught me his craft. I became more proficient than even the Knights of the Round Table that sought his guidance and experience. I swore my allegiance to the King long ago. He agreed to keep up my charade until I felt it was right for me to claim my Father’s title to land and his birthright that had been lost to him due to treachery when he fought for years abroad. I fight for his line and now I fight for the redemption my own foolhardy choices in life.” Placing a warm strong hand on the one that was administering to her injured cheek, she pulled it away and she looked for something in the green eyes that she herself did not know what. Then she shook her ebony hair and replaced the helmet.

“Are you still going to take me home?” Alicia asked in a tentative voice, the soft melodic sounds striking a slither of hope in the Black Knights solemn thoughts.

“I have given my word and my sword to see you home safely Milady. If that is not your wish, then please, I will take you back whence we came and you may chose your own escort?” The Knight waited patiently for a reply. Her heart beating so loudly in her chest, that she feared the other woman would hear it and know the reason.

Alicia looked at the sky blue eyes she had loved from the first moment she saw them sparkling in the sunlight. To her the same feeling was still there.  Even though now, she must think about the other issue, what she had thought a man was now a woman. How did one reconcile that change? For it was a physical change, not a change of the true heart. She knew deep within her soul that it did not matter. She would find a way to show her love for this lonely Knight. Who was indeed her Knight in shining armour be it Black and not White as the driven snow, for time would take care of the problems she was sure of it!

“No, Black Knight, we journey forth together as my father wanted. Let us rest. We have a long way still ahead of us, and we will do it together.”

Edwin looked at the younger woman. Gave her a small smile that sent the sparkles into her sky blue eyes as Alicia gasped at the change. She returned the smile; her own eyes glowed at the warmth she felt at such a small show of…affection.

“Then onward we will go Lady Alicia Lascelles. My sword is yours for as long as you need it.” The Knight turned away and pulled down the visor effectively blocking out any chance that another would see her face.

Alicia walked at the Knight’s side a happy smile of her own, ‘I would take your sword forever!’ was her thought as they re-entered the area where the cart driver was still munching happily on his roast rabbit, having no knowledge of her leaving the camp site.

Tomorrow they would set of on a journey together, the Black Knight and the Lady.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Three

The Black Knight had delivered his precious charge to the home from whence she originally came. The Normandy Castle was now alive with the sounds of the servants and their start of the day’s activities. Today was indeed going to be a special day. Count Lascelles was throwing a party in honour of the return of his eldest daughter.

Lady Alicia Lascelles watched the Black Knight stroke the mane of her tall, imposing steed, Raven with gentle care and attention. Her position at the window onto the courtyard below gave her a very good view of the happenings of both servants and… a very special Knight.

Their five-day journey to the home of her birth and the reunion with her ailing father had been uneventful. Well, if you call finding out that the brave Knight you had assumed a man was not only a woman, but also the person whose eyes had captured hers, as well as her heart so long ago in Camelot. That made her feel so much love for the person within. Then it was otherwise uneventful. Arriving the day before in the glorious mid afternoon sun to her father’s castle, had made Alicia wish something had delayed them. She felt in her heart that the Knight would stay no more than the required night to sleep and refresh her horse.

After a tearful reunion with her father, with even more tears from her younger sister, who was a little taller than Alicia and had chestnut hair the colouring of their father. Sophia had looked with appreciative eyes at the Black Knight who waited patiently holding the reigns of his steed a few paces behind them. Alicia had not cared for her sister’s maidenly glances towards her Knight. She was sure with a certainty that was as clear as the next breath she would take to keep her alive, that the Black Knight was hers - and hers' alone!

Her father had motioned for the Black Knight to stand forward and receive his thanks. He knew the young Knight would accept nothing for his journey. The honour of the Knight had convinced the old Count that he was a true Knight of King Arthur’s round table, even if he had not sat around it in fact!

“Sir Black Knight, I thank you for the safe return of my daughter. May I ask did you encounter any trouble along your journey to these shores?”

The Black Knight inclined her head and as always refused to remove the helmet that held her secret safe within, a fact that sorely aggravated the Count.

“It was with honour that I return your daughter to the safety of her fathers home. I’m sure she will now be happy, here among her family. We did not encounter trouble of any manner to speak of. Your daughter’s safety was never in jeopardy,” her voice a low tone that could have been described as neutral by many. But to Alicia, who watched in fascination the words being uttered, she could see Edwina’s beautiful face speaking them.

“Alicia, come! We must celebrate tomorrow with a party in your honour.  Sir Black Knight please, you must stay to celebrate along with us. What say you?” The Count had put a tender arm around Alicia’s waist and was laughing merrily as he spoke the words.

“I will by your leave, only stay until the morrow. Then I must move on to my next crusade.”

All eyes shifted to the black imposing figure. A heartfelt sigh could be heard from the younger sister Sophia at being deprived of the possibility of engaging the Knight in something other than watching him tend his horse.

The Count shook his head wearily. He too sighed, but with regret for his new friend who had become so much more to him - more like family and the son he had never had.

“I respect your wishes Black Knight. Will you venture this way again soon so we may honour you with a banquet fitting the Knight who not only saved my life, but who has now returned my daughter home safely?”

Alicia had disengaged from her father as he spoke quietly to the Knight. Her green eyes sparkled with anger at the affront that the Knight gave in not accepting the invitation to the party on the next evening.

“He will stay papa!” Alicia exploded arrogantly, and then turned the full effect of her angry stare to the shining black helmet that affected a steel screen between them.

The Count shifted in discomfort at his daughter’s rudeness and her audacity. Surely the Black Knight would not put up with such a show of possession from her. “Daughter, be quiet! This is for the men to decide. Go inside before you damage the friendship that is between our two houses!”

Alicia refused to be thwarted. Her eyes grew angrier still, if that was at all possible.

The Black Knight had made no move to counter anything said. Suddenly he raised his black gauntlet and the three sets of eyes rested on him again in total absorption. “You want me to attend your party Milady?”

The words caused Alicia to take in a sudden breath at the way the resonation made her feel from the top of her head down to her toes.

Now all eyes turned to Alicia and waited for her response. “Yes, Sir Knight, I wish it so,” her voice rasping. She was sure someone would mention that it came out somewhat breathless as well.

The Black Knight came closer to her, picked up her hand and raised it to the visor in a gesture of a kiss.  Alicia was sure of that, or was it just her fanciful imagination?

“I will do as you bid.  But, beware fair maiden, a price may be required,” the words spoken so low only she could hear them.

“What pray tell would that price be Sir Knight?” Alicia beseeched for the Knight’s ears only. Her face turning a delightful shade of pink at the possibilities it brought to mind.

“For that, you will need to wait for the festivity,” came an enigmatic response that had her heart fluttering wildly in her chest.

“Count Lascelles I will be happy to stay until the celebration is over. One can never tell if there are vagabonds still waiting in dark corners of the castle. We do have two fair maidens to protect do we not Sir?” Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked with total command and authority towards the stable. The steed called Raven ambled along proudly directly behind the powerful and stunning Knight.

“What did you say to change his mind Alicia?” her father inquired. Although surprised, he was very pleased at the outcome.

“I merely extended your offer once again to the Knight. Nothing more than that father.” Alicia was watching the retreating back of her…now what could she call the woman who was so clearly happy masquerading as a man? Her head shook at the thoughts, for there was no answer to them at this time.  However, there would be. Oh yes, there would be!

“Then daughter, you and he must have become friends perhaps, on your journey home?” Her father smiled at her with the same green eyes as hers as both twinkled in the sunlight.

Alicia considered her father’s words. Her smile filled her whole face with delight and brought a reciprocating one from her father.

“Yes! Yes, I do believe we may have become friends.” Her words expelled quietly as she put her hand through her father’s arm. They then walked happily towards the doorway to the main hall, following her younger sister.

Now, watching with a hand to her lips and concentrating on what she could wear that would dazzle the Knight before her and not make him leave shortly thereafter. It was a perplexing thought. One she wasn’t sure she could answer in truth. But, why dazzle, for it was certain that the Black Knight could have no feelings for her other than as the elder daughter of the noble man he saved on a journey to the late King Arthur’s side. Sighing heavily the door to her room was opened in a dramatic fashion and her sibling Sophia stepped inside as her long gown in a russet brown sweeping along with her. She looked like the sail of the ship they had taken only a few days earlier to reach France.

“Sophia do you ever knock?” Alicia chastised her. It had little effect though, as Sophia bustled towards her sister and kissed her on the cheek saying good morning as she did so.

Sophia looked down from the window that Alicia had been intent upon. She smiled as her eyes alighted on the Black Knight. “He makes a handsome sight does he not Alicia? So, come tell me what he was like on the journey?” her sister questioned in an excited voice.

Alicia smiled at her sister’s enthusiasm and shook her head at the notion that any one could know what the very private Knight was. “He said little Sophia.”

Sophia gave her sister a wide-eyed look that spoke the words she was not telling all in this matter. “Please Alicia I like him. I was trying to get Papa to persuade him to stay longer, so I could have the chance to get to know him. But, I feel that it should be you that I need to convince.” Her sister, being four years her junior, was very impressionable and somewhat apt to live a life of fantasy.

Smiling and placing a hand to the arm of her sister, “Please sit Sophia. We will talk.” Alicia was disturbed by her sister’s admission. It was one thing to think that her way to the Black Knight heart was strewn with obstacles, quite another that one of them should be her own sister.

“I’d rather watch the Knight, Alicia. He does look so fine handling his horse, do you not think?” Sophia refused to be drawn along by her sister. So, Alicia herself watched the Knight, her own heart singing as she did so.

“He will not stay Sophia! He must continue on his crusade. It is something he must do for his father.” Alicia said softly knowing the facts, but only allowing her sister to hear a very edited version.

“Why must he do it for his father Alicia? Who is his father?”

“Sophia his father is dead and he…would not reveal his true identity to me as he also did not to our father. We must respect that. Perhaps, if we do, he will return and come see us from time to time.” Alicia was sure her own longing for the Knight to stay would be revealed in her voice, but her sister appeared to take the words at face value.

“There are so few eligible noble men Alicia. What will Papa do should we not marry soon and if he dies, what then?” Sophia uttered, her voice full of woe.

“I for one am happy at the moment Sophia. I do not want to marry a man that I do not love. Do you not think the same? Papa looked quite well yesterday Sophia. He looks strong, he is not an old man.” Alicia was distressed that her sister thought their father might die.

“Alicia you do not know, since the Black Knight brought him home he has been slow to recover and now he has started to cough up blood. He does not say much Alicia. He just smiles all the time, but it pains him. You can see it in the eyes sometimes when he cannot mask it. You know we cannot stay at the castle should he die. It goes to our cousin Count Johan Defries. He is married with three children already. He will not let us continue to live here.” Sophia had tears brimming and ready to cascade down her cheeks.

Alicia put a loving arm around her sister in comfort. If her sister was right about the health of her father and it was death that starred him in the face, they would indeed be at the mercy of their cousin’s benevolence. He had never been that, even as a child. “I will go see Papa immediately upon our finishing our breakfast together and I will see for myself. So, come Sophia. Let us go and have some bread and cheese and a little goats milk. It will do us both good.”

“Will you make it alright Alicia? Papa does look so much better now that you have come home, but it maybe too late.” Sophia looked down with a steady glare at the Knight below before she turned back.

As Alicia looked down also, the Knight in question turned his black helmeted head towards the direction of the window and both lady and Knight stood silent as something intangible passed between them.

“Are you coming Alicia, if you do not move soon the Knight will see you and think we are interested in him,” she laughed merrily as her other sad thoughts now banished as Alicia was taking over the troubles.

“I’m coming.” Alicia replied softly, though tempted to bring her hand up and acknowledge the Knight, but thought it far to brash to do so. She turned suddenly and went through the door that her sister held impatiently.

~ ~ ~

Count Lascelles had been amazed that his eldest daughter had managed to persuade the silent black armoured Knight to stay for the party. Although he had expressed a wish to leave as he saw fit.

Contemplating all the issues at stake and the lives of his daughters, he was loath to see the Knight depart. But, what could he offer to keep him here. Walking over to the rich tapestry that his long deceased wife had placed over the now glowing embers of the fireplace, it always made him smile as he thought of that first day he had entered this room and saw it hanging there. It depicted not the usual fighting scene that was evident in many of his friend’s homes, but a gentle scene of a flowing river and several maidens partaking in a leisurely stroll along the banks. Some arm in arm others throwing stones in the stream and of another using a pole to fish with. The sun was bright and high in the sky, but the lush green fields had been a little dimmed over the years, but still gave the tapestry that calm peaceful setting. He had chastised his wife for her sentimentality, but it had lasted for all of two minutes. She looked at him with the most distinctive blue eyes he had ever seen, and as from the first time he’d ever locked gazes with her, his heart reached out and it found a home. He had never argued with his wife.

Although their life together had been shortened by the plague, he had regretted none of it and loved every single moment they had spent in each other’s company. That was what he wished for his two children. He had never forced them into unsuitable marriages and had hoped fervently that Alicia might meet a proud Knight at Camelot and be happy thus herself. That was alas, not to be; she was now home and no suitors had been spoken of except Sir Arnold Dubois. She had not wanted him and he could not force her, it wasn’t his way. What would become of them if he should die soon and that was something he did not wish, but felt the draw of death coming closer each day?

Turning towards his view of the courtyard he saw the Black Knight performing the menial task of grooming his horse! For many knights it was a menial task, but for this Knight it was not.  Hadn’t he once explained on his last visit when asked?

“No! Thank you anyway Sir.  I prefer to take care of Raven myself.” The Knight stood tall and turned his shiny black helmeted head towards the man offering the service. The visor did not allow the man to see any features of the Knight, but the Knight could see out. It was a useful advantage at times.

“Why?” Lascelles asked earnestly, not wanting to upset the man before him.

“Raven is important to me in many ways, in battle, survival, and friend. Therefore, I would not be doing justice to him if I did not make sure he was well cared for. Who better Sir, than the person that needs him the most.” The Knight replied, the voice solemn but not sad.

The count laughed at the words. He placed a friendly hand on the broad armoured shoulder of the Knight, “So be it Sir Knight. I think your logic commendable.  I’m sure Raven does as well.”

The Count continued the view the scene of the Knight and the steed. He suddenly placed a hand to his forehead as if a brilliant thought had attacked him without a defence. “Of course! Of course, how could I have been so blind? That is the ideal solution!” Smiting a hand to his forehead, then having to reach for a piece of linen as a coughing fit ceased him and the red patches of blood appeared again, but more enhanced today.

“Levant, Levant get me the Black Knight immediately! Do not delay.” Lascelles shouted to his personal manservant, who had been watching with interest and then anxiety as the Count coughed hard.

“At your service Count I will do as you bid.” The man scurried off to undertake his errand.

The door was closed only for a few minutes before his daughter knocked on it gently and upon hearing her father, she went inside. “Good morning Papa, how are you this beautiful day?” Alicia smiled warmly at her farther and placed a small kiss on his cheek as she sat beside him on the horsehair seats in his room.

“My daughter good morning. It is a pleasure to see you. I wondered if I dreamed your return, but no, you are flesh and blood.” Her father smiled at her with an indulgent look.

“Papa, I hear things that disturb me.” Alicia said tentatively. She and her father had the same temperament. It was placid and caring and although she did not want to anger him, as once angered, her father had a fiery temper like her own.

“My daughter, please what is it?” Lascelles gazed upon his eldest daughter. His heart swelled up at how she had developed into a poised, beautiful and compassionate woman. He was sure his wife would have been proud. No! No, he was certain she would have been very pleased with the young woman beside him.

“Sophia is upset that you are really sick Papa. That you might die?” Alicia as ever, was not tactful, not when the answer mattered so much to her.

Lascelles thought of being evasive and then changed his mind. “Alicia there comes a time when we old war horses need our rest. Perhaps for me, as it did with King Arthur, my time is near. But, I will not go easily daughter, so please do not worry so.”

Alicia gave a half cry and flung her arms around his shoulders, she loved her father. He had always been there for them especially when their mother had died ten years hence. He had not let the suffering he felt at their mother’s loss affect the children. That had been a blessing to them and he had loved them dearly. “Papa is there anything I can do?” her voice filled with tears.

“No daughter, nothing more than your being here. That is enough, as I’m sure it will bring me strength by your presence. Please do not cry child. It will all work out daughter. One day we will all be happy.” Lascelles had always loved the first-born child the most. One should not he knew, but she was so open and honest. Yet, she gave so much love and understanding to everything and everyone, even the servants.

King Arthur had been very vocal that she had been a wonderful source of caring to the people in general, not just his court. She was simply, Lady Alicia, a light that shone when darkness appeared. She was the woman, who had captured so many of his Knights hearts, but had refused all the overtures. Not one had managed to scale the wall she had built.

The King had been praiseworthy of her with his queen, court and the general populace. For the Count, it had been a glory that surpassed the battles he had fought and won. It was a battle won by caring, warmth and love. He had been proud, so very proud.

“I love you Papa. We will be together for a long time. I’m sure of it.” Alicia loving responded her words muffled into the heavy brocade her father wore around his neck.

“Yes, daughter we will.” Her father smiled. For it may not be in life that she beheld him, but in her heart and wasn’t that enough? Whilst one lives in the hearts of people and they are talked about and remembered, they can never die. For memories are the things that are passed down in stories from generation to generation through which you could live forever!

The door to his private room was assailed by several heavy knocks and he told whomever to come inside.

As the door-opened Levant announced the Black Knight and he retired as the Knight moved forward into the room.

To Alicia’s eyes he dwarfed the room. It suddenly became stifling, for all the wrong reasons.

“Ah, Black Knight, thank you for answering my invitation,” Lascelles said grandly.

“My sword is at your service Count. What pray, do you require of me?”

The voice was so low Alicia was hard pressed to hear it. Yet her smile came unbidden and threatened her composure.

“Alicia would you please leave us. I need to speak to the Black Knight alone.” Her father requested quietly into the ear of his daughter, and then saw her look at first with irritation, and then it softened.

“Yes father. I will be in the rose garden if you care visit me?” Alicia wasn’t sure if she issued the invitation to the Knight, or her father.

“I understand daughter.”

Alicia pecked her father’s cheek and walked towards the door and stopped within inches of the Knight. “Good morning to you Black Knight.”

The Black Knight turned slightly so his visor could see the young woman before her. “Good morning to you Milady. Did you sleep well?”

Alicia could almost, but not quite picture the expression on the Knights face. Would it be enigmatic or happy or playful or…she did not know, and she cared not at this time.

“I slept well Sir Knight. Why would I not? You have promised your sword in my protection. I take it that it extends to the castle as well?”

“Yes.” A single word that would always make her heart feel light. It was just what was meant to be and she felt that she and the Black Knight were meant to be.

“Thank you Sir, on that I will leave you with my father and see you later.” Alicia moved towards the door and she thought she heard a reply.

“Oh! Yes, for you, I will be there.”

“So, Black Knight, I need you to consider a proposal.” Lascelles said distinctly as the door closed behind his daughter.

“I await the information with interest Count.” The Black Knight moved closer to the older man to hear his words with perfection.

~ ~ ~

The Black Knight did not know what to think!

Now he had a decision to make and it was one that had repercussions no matter what. It would not be right, whichever way he decided to go. His own redemption was far less clear. How in those circumstances could he possibly take on others?

Yet!

Wasn’t the redemption he sought part of taking care of King Arthur’s obligations. It would be so easy to say yes, and consider something so far removed from her sights achievable. But then, it would be a lie, for the Count did not know and would never approve; it was all pie in the sky, a dream never to be fulfilled. There was only one thing she could do in the circumstances. She could feign a relationship with a daughter and that would keep the old man happy and the vultures at bay. Well, for now at least. Yes! That was a viable proposition; a very viable proposition and he knew the daughter in which to make it happen, it was going to be so easy.

“I will court your daughter Sir. But, it must be with discretion and she must never know of this conversation between us?”

“Sir, I would not do so. If my daughter chooses you, then it will be without cohesion. I do not believe in forced marriages Black Knight. My daughters must marry for love. Even at this late time in my life, I know it must be so and I know deep down it will be so.” The old Count replied, his own memories of his love for his wife taking over.

“I hope that is the truth Count Lascelles. For I would not want to leave behind me…heartbreak in your family.” The Black Knight moved towards the door then rested a hand on the large handle in readiness to open it.

“My dear Sir, you have brought us only good. Your well-being is important to us and to my family, all of them! I hope you enjoy this evening’s entertainment. Please will you allow me to announce your betrothal tonight? It would be fitting.”

“Count, please, I need to ask the question of your daughter. Then we will do so, if she is agreeable.” The Knight took his leave.

Lascelles watched the virtually empty courtyard fill with people as he waited for the Black Knight to emerge. As he did so, paths as he approached opened up and he went on his way without trouble. ‘Yes, his daughter would be happy at the knight’s proposal. It was a solution in part, and one day Alicia would find someone that she would want to marry.’

~ ~ ~

Chapter Four

The Black Knight had asked directions to the rose garden from one of the scurrying servants, as he was preparing the castle hall, making ready for the evening’s festivities. It would be a low-key affair, but no less grand in its presentation.

Approaching the secluded courtyard area, she heard the low melodic tones of someone singing a happy melody. For a few moments the Knight stopped and listened. It was a melody that she had not heard before. It was so haunting; it captured the attention quite by chance and entered the heart without a care. A smile crossed the dark helmeted Knight and she walked towards the voice that was drawing her closer and closer as a victim to the web of a spider.

Alicia bent close to a beautiful blood red rose and smiled at the aroma that assailed her. It was so delicate a fragrance and matched the song she was singing. Her sharp hearing picked up the sound of armour. Although to many, the Knight would have appeared silent. To her trained ears after four years in Camelot, it was familiar and brought a gentle smile to her lips as good memories surfaced.

“Sir, have you lost your way to the stables?” Alicia laughed inwardly as she imagined what that comment would make on the Black Knight’s face. She did not need her eyes to know it was she. She knew instinctively it could be no other.

The Black Knight stopped in her tracks once again. A slow smile of pleasure crossed her face. “No! I wanted to see the rose garden that you mentioned. The flowers would need to be so beautiful to attract the attention of such a true rose.”

Alicia was so surprised at the comment, she quickly stood erect and over balanced, causing the Knight to move with surprising speed considering the weight of her armour to catch hold of Alicia’s arm before she sank to the ground without decorum.

“Thank you.” Alicia rasped haltingly and was relieved, but also disappointed when the Black Knight removed her hand as she was steadied quickly.

“At your service Milady.” The quietly spoken voice of the Knight brought Alicia’s senses to a pitch that she should surely not feel.

“So, Sir Knight, you have had a good rest and are ready for the evenings entertainment?” Alicia asked her voice breathless.

“Yes, I’m well rested Milady. And you, are you rested after the journey we endured to bring you home?” the voice warm or so Alicia thought.

“I am very happy to be home. I slept well in my own room and bed.” Alicia smiled, looking directly at the Knight.

“You are smiling about what?” the tall figure asked intrigued.

Alicia wasn’t sure if she knew the answer. She walked away from her position and sat down at the wooden seat that looked upon the rose garden in a position encompassing the whole garden area. It was so beautiful it was breathtaking.

“It is a very beautiful day and I’m happy to see you enjoying it also.”

The Black Knight came closer to Alicia. It was a strange feeling to consider that what her heart desired was what the father of this woman desired also, but for different reasons. Edwina was in love with the glowing green eyes and the beautifully smooth and flawless face of the woman before her. She had been so from the first day that she had set eyes on Lady Alicia Lascelles over four years ago. It had only grown stronger. The feeling had not diminished as some unrequited love often does. How could her love have diminished when as each passing season brought forward further reason for Edwina to love the young woman? Alicia had compassion, warmth and love for people that went beyond the court of King Arthur. It travelled to his people and they all loved the smiling and gentle French woman, who braved the elements and the severity of the conditions the people lived in to show that side of her nature. Now she had been given permission to woe a daughter of the Count. Although had the Count been aware of the subterfuge of the situation and that the Black Knight was a woman instead of a man, it would be so different, so very different.

“Yes, it is a very beautiful sight.” Edwina said softly, her eyes turned to the woman before her rather than the garden itself.

Alicia looked up at the shining black helmet that was turned in her direction and she held her breath at the comment. Was it for the garden or…her? “Then Sir would you sit beside me and contemplate the beauty for a few moments together.”

Edwina had not missed the intake of the breath of the woman. She was loath to take advantage of the woman in the circumstances, but what could she do?

“Milady, I will stand and observe the view from this vantage point. We are, as you know un-chaperoned!”

Alicia blushed at the comment. Did the Knight consider her forward in manner and speech? She hoped not. It would be a hard burden to bear.

“As you wish Sir Knight.”

Several minutes passed as they both looked at the garden, but all they really wanted to do was gaze at each other. Alicia thought the silence would never end and she finally took the courage and tried to start another conversation with the Knight.

“Sir, will you still be leaving at the end of the festivities tonight?”

Edwina wanted to shout out that she would never leave the woman at her side. But, she knew deep down, this maiden would never consider a life with her. It was a dream that would not be fulfilled. All that she could hope was that the Lady would consider the charade of a betrothal to be in the best interests of her fathers failing health.

“That my dear Lady depends on the answer to a question.” Enigmatically spoken the Black Knight turned to face the young woman and as she did so, she raised the visor, which obscured her face to all eyes.

Alicia looked up and was rewarded with the sight of those startling blue eyes that made her heart race. They held so much strength of character and when the Knight desired warmth that seared into her soul.

“Pray Black Knight, what would that question be?”

Sapphire blue eyes entreated emerald green ones to understand and a small smile played on the edges of the Knight’s lips as she considered her answer carefully. “I have been asked by your father to consider asking one of his daughters to marry me!” Before the Knight could say more Alicia was on her feet and standing inches away from the Knight her stance aggressive.

“My father would do no such thing. He wants us to marry for love!” Alicia responded with alacrity.

A shadow passed briefly in the Knights eyes, as the truth was laid bare for her to see. It would be impossible for the lady to love her. Why ever did she think that it could or would happen? Only fairy stories ever had a happy ending. Reality did not!

“I know Milady, and I think your sister Sophia is in love with me. So, I will do my duty and ask the question.” Edwina’s voice low and held a tinge of sorrow. Had she been given the slightest indication that Alicia was interested, and then she would have gone down on her bended knee and begged for the young woman to accept her offer. But alas, she did not see that.

“YOU CANNOT DO THAT! IT WOULD BE CRUEL TO SOPHIA AND MY FAMILY!” Alicia shouted at the woman before her. What was she thinking? If it was anyone she should ask, it should be her, not her sister!

“I had an obligation to your father Milady, I will see it through.” The Black Knight responded quietly, but the strength behind it was not lost on Alicia.

“No!” Alicia stated vehemently.

“No?” Edwina shot her an exasperated look from the blue eyes.

“You are a woman. My sister is innocent of that information. It would be dishonourable to ask her.” Alicia seethed, her mind stumbling over the events happening before her.

“Yes, I am a woman. It would mean that your sister would say no. I will be denounced and sent packing. True justice for my deception, do you not think Milady?” Edwina turned away from the flashing green eyes. It troubled her to see the hurt she was inflicting.

“Then why ask her? Why not ask me?” Alicia’s voice held a plea that Edwina could not understand. She turned back to the woman and saw…what did she see? Was it love? Was it compassion? Was it purely needed to protect her sister from an embarrassing situation?

“You already know the facts Milady. How much more disrespectful would that be to ask you to marry me?” the voice so low that Alicia had difficulty hearing it.

Alicia was taken aback by the comment. Would she have considered it disrespectful or would she have felt it an honour? Her heart told her one thing her mind rejected it.

“I think Black Knight that to save my sister and my fathers face this day, you will need to ask me the question. We will deal with the details at a later date.”

Edwina was surprised, somewhat annoyed, but exceptionally pleased at the offer. “Milady, it would be wrong of me to ask you to do this. Perhaps, I should just leave as I intended to do yesterday?”

“NO!” the emphatic reply was so loud Edwina looked about her to make sure no one else heard, then came looking for the reason behind the disturbance.

“No? Why is that Milady? Surely it would not be a hardship for your family. You could say that not only had I duped your family with my deceit, but the late King Arthur. No one would hold that against you, no one with honour that is.” Edwina spoke the words solemnly. It was time to move on. Her redemption was in another place.

“I will not allow you to be less than honourable Edwina D’Argent Lion. You have saved my fathers life and brought me home without any hope of gain when others wanted so much more!” Alicia had listened to the messages of her mind, but her heart had overridden it with a force that she was sure would send her down to the ground with its impact.

Edwina gave a wry smile and contemplated the words uttered by those tempting lips. “For now I will do as you ask, but take my warning Lady, being betrothed to me will link our lives in such a way, that it may become impossible at a later time to wash away the stigma of our association, when the facts are generally known.”

Alicia watched the sadness creep into the blue eyes that beheld hers. She smiled gently, her warmth and confidence mirrored in her green eyes. “I will be the judge of how you will affect my life Edwina. Please accept that as the truth.” Her eyes strayed to the wounded cheek and it looked angry and red in stark contrast to the alabaster skin.

“Does the injury pain you Edwina?” Alicia’s voice soft with concern. Her hand timidly went up to touch the edges of the wound.

Edwina flinched away and saw the pain that inflicted on the green eyes facing her. Her own emotions in turmoil, she did not expect the woman to touch her? Her fear of physical contact with Alicia should her resolve to not show her true feelings be breached had made the situation worse. “The injury will heal, as all do.  It will leave a scar. Though one I will happily carry to the end of my days.” Edwina announced.

The very words lit a spark in Alicia’s heart. The pain she had felt at the flinch was replaced with a feeling of delight at the words.

“You will want to remember me in such a way, how very….” Alicia trailed off her eyes captured by the blue ones and a tendril of what could only be versed as understanding passed between them.

“Your father will want to have the full details, I am sure from you, of how the Black Knight succumbed to the beauty of his eldest daughter and that she accepted his proposal of marriage. If you say your father is a romantic and wants his daughters to marry for love, he will expect no less.” Edwina said her voice low and to Alicia she couldn’t wish for anything more, than to listen to the melody of it the rest of her life. That was a dream that perhaps could not be, for it would be inevitable that people would find out about the Black Knight. Edwina would have to flee the area. Who could approve such a union?

Edwina saw a look of consternation cross the younger woman’s face, and then a defeated look replaced it. What had she thought that caused her to have such melancholy thoughts? “You appear distressed Milady? Please, have I voiced something that pains you?”

Alicia stated at the question turned a bright smile to the Knight. “Of course not Edwina. It was a fleeting memory that was all. Nothing you have done, I assure you. To answer your question earlier, yes my father is a romantic. He and my mother were very happy together. Had it not been for my sister and I, it would have been probable that he would have joined her shortly thereafter. I am eternally grateful he did not, for he has shown us much love.  I hope one day, I too, can feel that same emotion he and my mother shared.” Alicia stated wistfully.

“Milady, I will hope in my heart that you find that one true love and it is returned with equal measure. For now, I’m afraid you will have to make me your dream of love.  I will endeavour to make it my place to ensure that no harm befalls you as you seek your true love Alicia Lascelles.” The Black Knight bowed as low as her armour would allow.

Alicia watched in quiet fascination as the Black Knight knelt on one armoured knee and placed a black gauntlet hand to the chest piece of her armour and striking the point close to the heart held out the hand towards her gallantly. “Will you Alicia Lascelles, elder daughter of the Count Lascelles, of the Castle Lascelles in the province of Normandy, accept my hand, Edwina D’Argent Lion, better known as the Black Knight in marriage?” Blue eyes gazed into green with a determination and warmth that Alicia had not expected. The words had the ring of truth about them, as if Edwina was acting in sincerity and not as a whim of her father.

Momentarily stunned into silence Alicia could not help but gaze with a secret passion into the blue eyes and she noticed that the eyes looked confused at her actions. “Edwina D’Argent Lion, I Alicia Lascelles will be honoured to accept your hand in marriage and I accept all that being your betrothed brings.”

Edwina was indeed confused; this was a false declaration surely! Yet, it had appeared to have the ring of truth about it, making her heart race at the possibilities those simple words could bring. “Thank you Milady for doing me the honour. I will take your leave and be by your side this evening so that we may announce the happy news.” Edwina was about to turn and leave the rose garden, but the small hand of Alicia placed itself on her arm and stopped her in motion.

“Do you think we should not seal the acceptance with more than a simple thank you Sir Knight? Do you have no heart?” Alicia said playfully, but her blood felt as if it was boiling up inside. Her emotions so chaotic at the very notion of those full lips kissing her.

Edwina turned her face up in shock at the words. Whatever did Alicia mean? Surely she did not expect a kiss? Looking deep into the eyes of liquid green pools she saw that indeed there was mischief but something more. Well, she had never been one to back down and her very honour had been doubted here, so be it. “My apologies Milady.” Bending closer to the upturned face of the younger woman, she placed a chaste kiss on the cheek of the woman who had closed her eyes in anticipation.

Alicia felt the softness of the lips caress her cheek gently, and then the feeling was gone as gossamer flies in the wind. A soft moan emitted from the young woman. She did not know why, but it hadn’t been enough!

“You call that a betrothal kiss Edwina? I call it a kiss shared between sisters, not as one lover to another! We do have to look as if that is truly what we are.”

Edwina again gave a start at the audacity of the small woman before her. Was she playing with her? Probably! Did she care? No! What was there to gain? Everything! Edwina’s heart called to her.

“I am at your command Milady Alicia. If that is your wish, I will gallantly proceed.”

 A smile came over both faces as they starred at each other as if for the first time. As the full lips of Edwina D’Argent Lion settled on the soft lips of Alicia Lascelles, both women closed their eyes and sank into the wonderful feelings that this one kiss produced in them both. It was a contact that was to leave them breathless and wanting more. However, as the Knight pulled away, she sped on her heels out of the garden and back towards the stable and the retrieval of her equilibrium.

Alicia could not call back the Black Knight. She had no voice in which to do so. Her whole body had turned to jelly at the surging emotions this one kiss had evoked in her. Is this what love was all about? Was this feeling of euphoria only ever to be experienced in the kisses of the Black Knight? Could she continue her life without feeling this again? Her mind was so full of questions. Many of which could not be answered until the evening when she would have the pleasure of the company of the Black Knight once again. It made her giddy to think of it. Now it was time to tell her father the good news. For Alicia did feel that now, it was good news. She had fallen in love. It was now up to her to convince her father that her love was as pure as his had been with her mother, it was that simple.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Five

The Black Knight had taken Raven for a long gallop over the hills and green fields of the lands belonging to the Castle Lascelles. When it was over, not only was Raven exhausted, but the Black Knight as well.

Edwina’s feelings were open now there could be no going back. What she had experienced in that one kiss with Alicia would be stored in her heart forever. The love she now knew was as old as the earth itself and could never be fulfilled. At least for the moment, she could be in the company of the young woman. She could drink in the beauty of her and keep her safe, until such time as the Lady herself chose to take another betrothed. The mere thought of such a thing brought a pain into Edwina’s chest that threatened to fell her from her horse at its intensity. How could she feign not telling the woman she loved of her loving? It would be so hard not to fall on her knees and beg for another kiss, or a touch from those small gentle hands and see warmth and love gaze out at her from those vivid green eyes.

Now she must control her actions and make sure that Alicia did not get hurt or see the hurt that she could with a few words inflict on Edwina’s tender feelings. For it may not be a mace, crossbow or even a sword that caused her death, but thoughtless words from the small strawberry blonde woman who had captured her heart and could crush it under foot without a care.

Pausing briefly to scan the fields ahead that lead to the gates of the castle, Edwina saw several horses grazing in a nearby field but could not make out who was with the steeds. It was getting near to when the festivities would start. She did not want to be late especially now, but she had a feeling that the owners of the horses might not be friendly. Fanciful thoughts and unfounded, Edwina scrutinised the area once more and then rode off towards the castle and her betrothed.

~ ~ ~

Alicia had wanted to talk to her father and inform him of the Black Knights proposal and her acceptance, but he was sleeping and his valet Levant, had not wanted to disturb him. He had looked so very tired. Alicia had accepted the man's concern for her father.  She smiled her understanding and said she would see him later at the party.

Sophia, whom she had also wanted to inform, had been with the dress maker and was in such a dizzy mood with the woman, Alicia felt it best to go back to her own room and consider what gown she would wear that evening.

Looking over her clothes she felt that nothing justified the way she was feeling at the moment, it was to be a wondrous announcement. Perhaps she could convince, over a period of time, the Black Knight to stay at the castle. Perhaps one day, who knew, Alicia might make Edwina love her as she loved Edwina. It was a chance and a single thread of hope she knew she held. A chance that could be dashed by the Knight with a few words having one meaning - she was leaving the Castle and leaving Alicia behind. Such a slender chance it was to envisage, but she could see the road that the chance would offer her. She willingly would go down it, if Edwina were at her side. So tiny a word was love, but so much could be achieved once it was in your grasp and acknowledged within the heart.

Pulling out a silk forest green dress with cobalt blue sleeves, it was a beautiful creation and she had never worn the garment. It had been made for a feast of victory in Camelot. But alas, that victory although achieved, had taken away the most precious life of the King and it was more a wake than a party. Now the dress would be worn in all its colourful splendour at a party in her honour and on her betrothal also. It was fitting it should be so.

~ ~ ~

The lute player was weaving a happy tune along with the flute player and the shimmering of the torches that produced the light within the castle burned brightly. Laughter was the noise that enticed anyone to the castle hall where a large banqueting table was filled to overflowing with everything imaginable. Large pheasants fully trussed and presented in a beautiful fashion adorned the table along with a large roasted pig, fresh bread, gallons of wine and numerous other delicacies that could possibly be found in the area.

Several of the castle dogs were eyeing up the table in the hope that they would be thrown a morsel to two. Although they looked thin to the general sight, the dogs were generously fed in the castle.

The selected guests that the Count had asked to the party commemorating his elder daughters return home, were busily talking and eating with the obligatory goblet of red wine to wash down the food.

At the centre of the table the Count was laughing merrily with his daughters on either side of him with several noble men and woman flanking them. One person missing at the start of the celebration was the Black Knight. Not only was Alicia hurt and annoyed at the lateness, but the Count was a little disturbed by it as well! Had he gone too far in his earlier suggestion to the Knight? Perhaps! They would have to wait and see. He hoped that the Black Knight would not take his time to court his younger daughter. But, young men these days had other priorities other than love on their minds and for certain, the Black Knight had other things he wished to do with his life.

As if the Knight had heard the thoughts of the Count and the annoyance of her betrothed, the Knight made an unobtrusive entrance to many. However, to Alicia and her father, it was as if he commanded attention and dwarfed everyone inside with his stature and elegant ambience. The Knight had changed from his normal black suit of armour to a glimmering silver suit, which shimmered in the glow of the torches. Comprising of a breastplate, covering a chain mail vest, gauntlets that only covered the wrist to elbow and silver armoured lower leg braces. Royal blue brocade leggings completed the outfit and it was with a surprise that no helmet was in evidence.

All eyes starred at the mysterious Black Knight, who was now open to the eye of everyone. Long ebony hair was tied back and hung neatly in the back and the alabaster skin that was now marked with a rugged looking scar looked around with a bored expression. If someone should look to closely the Knight would give him or her a piecing glare that frightened the most inquisitive of onlookers. The Knight made his way towards the long table that held the family she had sworn her allegiance to for a short period of time.

“As you requested Milady Alicia, I have taken up your kind offer to attend your party.” Edwina looked into the green eyes before her and gave a slow curious smile, which made the blue eyes sparkle.

“Thank you Sir Knight. For what should I have done had you not taken up such an offer, tonight of all nights?” Alicia said huskily, her eyes trapped in the snare of the blue ones before her - the woman was stunning. She did not have the natural gentle beauty that often was portrayed in women, but she was incredibly attractive and it made Alicia’s heart beat faster at her need to have the Knight kiss her again.

“So, Sir you deemed it important enough that you have forsaken your mystery and we at last see your face?” The Count had watched the interchange between his elder daughter and this very soft faced Knight. It had been very interesting, very interesting indeed.

“In truth Sir, I have reason to want to be free of my helmet this night,” the words enigmatic.

Had her father looked over at Alicia he would have seen the start of a pink tinge appear on her cheeks at the possible reason for that remark.

“Then I welcome you Sir Knight. It is with great honour that you have blessed this evening with your presence. Now daughters, it is time to show everyone how well, you dance.” He clapped his hands and the flutist began a melody for the dancers in the rooms of which there were many.

Alicia rose gracefully as did her sister and she was about to move closer to the Knight when her father called him over to speak. Frustrated, she smiled a false smile as the elder son of the Count Devries asked for the dance. She reluctantly gave him her hand and went on to the centre of the great hall.

It was some time before the dancing stopped and the revellers were allowed to wine and dine. Alicia had been watching Edwina move about the room with her father, introducing the various noblemen and their houses. In most other circumstances that would have been fitting for the person she was to marry, but alas, in this circumstance, it was ironic and made her sad that it wasn’t real.

As she walked towards her seat a gentle large hand placed itself on her arm startling her, stopping her at the edge of the room. Looking up she was captured by those marvellous blue eyes and her own green ones reflected back a warmth that caused the rather dour expression on the Knights face to dissolve into a small smile.

“You are enjoying the party Sir Knight?” Alicia asked breathlessly.

“I want to be polite and say yes. But alas, I am not the social nobleman that your father appears to think I am. Although, if the scenery changed a little, I may be persuaded to reconsider.” Edwina spoke so quietly Alicia had to move closer to hear the words and she realised then that they had a mere inch between them.

Green eyes locked with blue and a longing passed between the two souls that now touched spiritually, but not physically. “What scenery would that be Sir Knight? Alicia asked, her voice barely audible to her ears, never mind to the one before her.

“Why, the view of having the woman who agreed to marry me on my arm as now, and the chance to gaze into her eyes at any moment and see those enchanting green eyes sparkle.” Edwina retorted in a husky voice and never once let the green eyes move away from hers.

Alicia was struck by such a profound feeling of love for the woman at her side she could barely stand, never mind acknowledge the sentiment. “I think then we must announce our intentions or people will talk, will they not?” People had indeed turned to observe the tall imposing Knight standing very close to the smaller figure of the elder daughter of the house of Lascelles.

“Does your father know?” Edwina moved a little distance away for the sake of decorum.

“No. No, I had no time to apprise him of our discussion. We should inform him now, and then allow him to make the announcement. It will make him happy.” Alicia affirmed, and with the Knight barely touching her arm she guiding her forward towards her father.

He was having an animated discussion with the man that had invited Alicia to dance initially. She smiled at him and proceeded to her seat next to her father. Where the nobleman had been sitting, he reluctantly stood up and bowed briefly to her and eyed the Black Knight with unconcealed dislike and walked away. “Father, I need to tell you something important.” Smiling at her father with a look of love that made her father pat her hand and smile back.

“Of course daughter, please, I’m all ears. Do tell me what is so important that you interrupt my conversation with that young man?” Her father chuckled at the cross look that passed over her features at the remark. “Daughter, come now, I was only teasing you, please what is so important?” Leaning forward so that she could whisper in his ear, she was unprepared for the sudden movement the news caused in her father; he scraped back the heavy chair and looked at first Alicia and then at the Black Knight.

“NO! That, I will not allow.” Her father shouted and all the room suddenly became silent.

“Father, why not?” Alicia was so surprised at his reaction. Had he not wanted one of his daughters to be married to the Black Knight? Had he not asked the Knight himself to ask one of them? What was so wrong?

“He does not love you Alicia. He does not love you!” This time her father turned towards the silently watching Edwina, who had been somewhat surprised at his reaction. Yet, she had known that the father had a soft spot for his elder daughter. He would have been agreeable had it been his younger daughter in this position.

Alicia was about to answer the question and was forestalled by the silver gauntlet of the Black Knight. “I will answer your fathers questions Milady. Please remain calm. All will be well.” Blue eyes with a gentle look pierced her green ones. The tears that threatened to fall did so without heed of her struggle to keep them at bay. A finger tenderly traced the path of one such tear and a smile of understanding shone from the Knight’s face.

Alicia knew in her heart that questions she had asked herself might now be answered. She felt that it would be a revelation that would make her very happy.

“Count, I have not been entirely honest with you. For that, I apologise. However, it was with good intent that I asked your daughter to marry me, for Sir, I do indeed love her. I will protect her until the day I die. You have always known me only as the Black Knight, but I am in fact, known to others as Edwin D’Argent Lion. My father was Sir David Lion, early friend of King Arthur and a true Knight of the round table. It is with that honour that I ask you to grant this betrothal. I do believe that you will not have cause to worry about my love for the Lady Alicia.” Edwina had wanted to confess that she was Edwina instead of Edwin, but had decided in light of the mood around her, it was not prudent to do so. Nevertheless everything else she said had a ring of truth to it.

The old Count looked at the Knight with a look of sorrow. He had just had his precious daughter return; to be taken again by the Black Knight was something that would break his heart. He had hoped that the Knight would choose the younger daughter. For as much as he loved Sophia, he knew that she had feeling for the Knight, which could develop to love. Now, what to make of this? What did Alicia want? Did she love the Knight that had now confessed his heart to the entire room?

“Sir Knight I thank you for your words, but it is not so easy for me.  I wish to know what my daughter feels in her heart. Please allow us a few minutes to converse in private over this matter.” Holding out his arm for Alicia to take, they left the room as the other guests stood, intently watching the proceedings with aroused curiosity.

As the flute player broke the silence, many of the other guests began to talk. It was with a great deal of relief they did so or Edwina was tempted to leave the Castle immediately. Her eyes scanned the room and saw a small circle of noblemen talking to the man who had taken Alicia to dance that first dance. The stance of the circle of five men looked none to happy and Edwina kept her eyes discreetly on their actions. Just then a small hand was placed on her steel gauntlet.

“Black Knight that was a surprise?” Sophia spoke quietly. Her eyes making the Knight turn away from his previous observations.

“Milady, it was a revelation to me also.” Edwina sighed slightly, watching the reaction from the sister of the woman she loved.

“My sister is very fortunate you love her Sir Knight and have taken it upon yourself to break the news this evening.” Sophia remarked, her voice getting lower at every word.

“Is there a significance about tonight?” Edwina inquired, her interest now piqued.

“Oh, yes! Tonight Count Devries son asked my father for Alicia’s hand in marriage. He is a cruel man and certainly holds no feelings for her other than as noblewoman of high rank to give birth to his children.” Sophia smiled winningly at Edwina and chuckled.

“You find it funny?” Edwina was seething with an inner jealousy that the man had approached Alicia’s father and that he did not love her. What was she? Some brood mare!

“No, not funny exactly, but you have thwarted the man and he will not be happy. Then again you have upset father also.  It will take all of Alicia’s power over him to make him see you in a better light. For father believes no one is good enough for her. Whilst I, on the other hand, he does not mind so much.” Sophia pointed out the facts, mot seemingly distressed by them in any way.

“Milady, I hope in the future you find a person to love you dearly.” Edwina replied sincerely. The young woman had always come over as silly lightweight girl, but she now believed that it was a front that she used to get her own way.

“Oh, I will Sir Knight. Have no fear of that. I get to chose from all of the suitors and especially now.” Smiling, she removed her hand from the silver gauntlet and moved away to talk to one of her friends.

Turning back to see what the circle of people with the Count Devries son in the centre was up to, she was perplexed to find that the group had gone and were no longer in the room at all. Walking over to one of the Castle soldiers on guard duty, she asked the whereabouts of the noblemen and was told they left the castle some minutes before.

Edwina mulled over that snippet of information and decided they were up to no good; with that thought in her mind, she too, retreated from the hall towards the stable and her battle armour.

Alicia was conversing with her father and trying to convince him that she did, indeed, love the Knight and that she knew of her father’s request of the honourable Knight. The Count was shamefaced at his deception as they now silently faced each other.

“My dear daughter, do you love the Knight truly?” Count Lascelles had never known his daughter lie to him at any stage in her life.

“Father, the Knight is the one true love of my life. Should I lose him now, I will be lost and alone for the rest of my life.” Alicia spoke the works from her heart and looked beseechingly at her father for his understanding.

Alicia walked over to the open window and saw a tall figure that was etched into her soul striding towards the stables. Her heart dropped! Had Edwina decided that it wasn’t worth the effort to continue the betrothal and had decided to leave?

“Father look, Father please look! She’s leaving me, you scared the Knight away!” Alicia did not realise that she spoke the one truth that her father had been troubled with at the sight of the bareheaded Knight. He did not look the manly type at all. Now Alicia had confirmed the truth as only one in love who forgets totally everything, but the terrible burden of watching someone they love apparently leave.

“Alicia you do fret so. Leave it to me. The Black Knight will not leave you. I give you my word.” With that comment between them, the Count went out of the room and from the castle window, she watched her father follow much the same path that the Knight had taken.

All Alicia could do was watch, wait and hope!

~ ~ ~

Chapter Six

The old Count had not expected the Black Knight to flee the castle like a thief in the night. At all times, the Knight had always served himself and others with a honourable stance. Albeit it the Knight was in love. What he had expected to go well did not! For that, the Count chastised his folly. But to have to find the errant Knight before he, or in this case she depart the castle, possibly never to set foot within it’s walls again and break the heart of his beloved daughter. No, no that wasn’t the way it would be!

Stepping into the darkened stable lit by only two torches, which flickered and glowed with the small breeze going through the open doors.

“Black Knight please show yourself.” The count demanded and waited in the glow of one of the torches so that the Knight would not consider him a threat.

The demand was not answered. All the Count heard was the clank of armour and shuffling in the recesses of the stable area that he knew the Knight had taken residence in, for the short time he had perceived he would be in the Castle.

“Sir Knight, is this the way a gallant Knight who served King Arthur well and who has sworn to protect my daughter up to death itself, acts when a simple question is asked?” The Count heard the indrawn breath and knew that the words had wounded the honour of one such as the child of the very worthy Knight Sir David D’Argent Lion.

“I would stay Sir, but I fear that we may have trouble approaching. I plan to see it vanquished before it reaches the Castle walls and the very lives of the women we love.” The words softly spoken and as soon as they were uttered the Black Knight appeared into the light donning the full black armour that she was associated with.

The Count looked perplexed at the words. Then he gazed directly into the sapphire blues eyes that were as yet uncovered by the visor of the helmet she wore.

“Who would do such a thing? We are not at war. Nor have I knowledge of an enemy that wants to take over Lascelles?”

The Black Knight considered the question carefully, then looked down at her gauntlets and then back into the green eyes that Alicia shared with her father. “I have reason to think it maybe the son of your friend the Count Devries!” the answer solemn.

As the Count shook his head at the possibility, the Knight went over to Raven and began the process of saddling the steed in battle readiness.

“Why would he do such a thing?” Count Lascelles quizzed softly, not particularly expecting an answer. As he spoke, he walked over to the Knight and helped her saddle up the large black steed.

“Sophia said that the man wanted to marry Alicia and perhaps our announcement tonight made another decision more practical in his eyes. Did the man ask for Alicia’s hand tonight?” Edwina waited for the response. Her face did not mirror the turmoil that she was feeling inside. She looked disinterested, almost.

“John did ask the question and I was attempting to find out how much he cared for her, when you made your announcement.” The Count watched the stoic expression on the face now turned towards him and a wry smile passed the lips of the Knight.

“I would warrant, he does not love her?” Edwina spoke softly, her eyes cold imagining the audacity of the nobleman who would want to marry for less than love.

“You, of course do?”

“I said so earlier in front of all your guests and made it known my intentions.” Edwina looked affronted at the suggestion that her words held less than the truth.

Count Lascelles held up a hand to halt any further angry words that might spill from the Knight. “Tonight you must do what you feel is just, for tomorrow Black Knight otherwise known as Edwin…a D’Argent Lion you will be allowed to proclaim your betrothal to Alicia Lascelles with my blessing.” With that the Count turned and headed out of the stable doors.

Edwin stared at the departing back of her  love’s father and swallowed several times. “Sir, you know?” the voice whispered in awe.

Lascelles turned and smiled warmly at the Knight. “I suspected earlier this evening, but my daughter in her panic not to loose you mentioned it in passing. Alicia loves you Edwina. I cannot intervene. I do hope that you will honour all that she is, and what she may yet become in the future. I will tell her that you will be back?”

Edwina smiled warmly at the old Count and he returned the smile. “Only death will prevent that Sir. And death is not on my agenda tonight.”

“Excellent. When you are through with the rascals, please feel free to come tell me the outcome.” The Count turned away and again walked towards the main Castle, followed by the Black Knight and the powerful steed Raven.

“I suggest you fortify the walls tonight Sir, as a precaution only.” The Black Knight retorted sternly, as he mounted the steed that had knelt to allow his armoured mistress to do so easily.

“Oh Sir, I intend to and please make this a quick battle should there be one.  I have a rather upset daughter, who is very strong willed and will no doubt want to be with you on the battle field should I allow it.” Chuckling the old Count made his way towards the Castle entrance calling the master of the guard in his wake.

The Black Knight turned her eyes towards the Castle, as she was certain that her soul could see Alicia. Without thought to anyone observing the action she placed her black gauntlet hand to her heart and then placed it towards the Castle window that she was sure Alicia was behind. The darkness of the night making it impossible to see anything distinctly. ‘Worry not my love. I will be back for you. There is not a knight in this realm or any other that could possibly prevent it.’ Edwina thought as she nudged Raven forward and they galloped out of the sturdy gates towards the foes of the dark.

~ ~ ~

Alicia had watched with a frantically beating heart as her father followed the Black Knight. She waited at her vantage point at the south window hoping to see them stride forward together back towards the castle. Alas, that was not to be. Her father had exited the stables first walking alone towards the Castle. Edwina walked out of the stables with her steed Raven. She had changed into her Black armour and Raven was kneeling for her to mount and ride to god knows where! Alicia watched further as her father and Edwina exchanged further words and her father started back towards the main castle shouting for the master of the guards. ‘Oh god! Was her father going to send soldiers after the Knight?’ Her mind was in total disarray.

The Black Knight mounted Raven and Alicia was certain Edwina could see her as a black gauntlet was held to her chest and then outwards towards the window where she was standing behind in the shadows. A similar action to the one that Edwina had used in the rose garden earlier that day, “Edwina I love you too!” the words escaped the quivering mouth as she watched her ride out through the gates.

Turning towards the door as it opened and her father walked inside his face a withdrawn mask. “Father?” Alicia asked with a worried frown.

Lascelles looked at his elder daughter, his eyes looked worried, but they cleared at the pain he could see in hers. “Daughter, your love will return. She has vowed so. I would wager that it would be so."

Alicia ran over to her father and placed her arms around him a bear hug that had him chuckling at the gesture. “Thank you father, thank you. But where is the Black Knight going?”

Lascelles looked at the worried frown that appeared on the forehead of the young woman in his arms.

“Our gallant Knight believes that the young Count John Devries will cause trouble this night. She goes to extinguish the threat as anyone would do in light that there maybe any possibility that the woman they love is in mortal danger.”

“Father, have you sent anyone to help her?” Alicia was aghast at the news. What if there were many? The Knight could not vanquish them alone?

“I can not do so Alicia. The Knight would not allow such a thing. But, I have more men on the walls as a precaution as instructed by our gallant Knight. It is what the Black Knight requested my daughter. However, I had men ready and able to go to aid her should she not return within the next three hours.” Lascelles spoke softly and smiled his confidence at the abilities of the Knight.

“Did she say anything before she left Father?” Alicia wanted desperately to know what Edwina was thinking prior to the battle.

Lascelles chuckled at the words. It was so like a young person in love to want to know what the other lover was thinking. It reminded him of his love for her mother, what a love that had been. Oh to feel that love reach out for him again. More and more these days, he felt her presence around him, but shrugged it of as fanciful thinking.

“She stated only death would prevent her coming back to you and death was not on her agenda this night.”

Alicia savoured the words and a smile deep within her heart shone out of her face. Her eyes brightened to shimmering green pools. “She will be back then father, for she has promised it so.”

“Yes, my daughter, I do believe you are right. Now we must put on a brave face and go back to the celebrations. It is after all your party and tomorrow you and the Black Knight can fulfil your betrothal in whatever manner you see fit.” Lascelles saw her look at him with a wide-eyed look.

“I would want to marry the Black Knight Father.” Alicia declare, her voice unwavering.

Lascelles laughed loudly at the comment. “Pray tell when could I stop you doing anything Alicia. However, I would talk with your gallant Knight before making that statement outside these four walls. Come Alicia it is time to drink a toast to the Black Knight and her safety this night. What say you?”

Alicia put her hand on the arm of her father. She nodded her head. Her mind was full of happy thoughts. Yet, the young woman was troubled by the thought that the Knight was alone. She could have been by her side, as she felt that was where she should be.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Seven

Edwina was floating on the back of Raven. Her heart was so light. For the first time in many years, she felt as if everything that she had struggled with over the years now had a purpose. It was revealed to her at last, what a joyous apparition that was, the Lady Alicia Lascelles.

The horse was galloping at speed towards the forest encampment where Edwina had earlier seen the many horses tethered. She was sure that would be the meeting point, especially if more men would be required to take the Castle.

Within a short space of time, Edwina slowed the horse to a gentle canter as she spied what she had thought all along. There was definitely going to be trouble! With watchful eyes scanning the area, she noticed there were at least twenty horsemen and at least the same again on foot. All in full battle armour, ready for a cowardly attack on an ill defended Castle, which had no idea of the oncoming battle.

Edwina stopped her steed. Pushing the visor of her helmet to her forehead so that she could better view the scene, her eyes alighted on several riders who did not have the battle armour and without a doubt one was the young Count Devries. He appeared to be giving the orders. ‘Now what should I do? It was easy to die for a cause and my heart knows that the cause of love for Alicia would be enough to do so. However, it would be harder to live for that cause with the numbers I see in my midst.’ Her eyes continued their unceasing evaluation of the scene. She was abruptly on her guard as the armoured horsemen moved forward with the foot soldiers forming rank close behind. The progress would be slow, but even so, they would reach the Castle before daylight and would most certainly cause destruction and death in their wake.

Moving out of the saddle she spied that the young Count, did not follow the armed force. He was in deep discussion with three other men, presumably from the party earlier. ‘Was this her chance? It maybe her only opportunity of challenging the instigator of the deed and perhaps bringing the perpetrator to justice prior to the larger force arriving at the Castle gates.’ Her mind set, Edwina closed the visor and whispered something soft and gentle to Raven. The steed whined, brought his head up and flew like the wind toward the group, taking the Black Knight along for the ride.

Within moments, the magnificent, but deathly sight of the Black Knight astride an equally black horse came into the full view of the four men, who stood amiably laughing. That laugh was to die in their throats as they saw the very devil himself appear.

“JOHN WHAT IS THAT?” one man shouted in panic as the horse and rider surged ever forward to their quarry.

“I do not know yet…IT IS THE BLACK KNIGHT!” John Devries was astonished at the sight before him. It simply could not be.

“The Black Knight? But how did he know?” another man exclaimed in annoyance. His hand shook as he thought of fighting the formidable Knight, whose reputation had preceded him.

“I don’t know, but come there are four of us to his one. What better odds could be in our favour? We rid ourselves of the biggest threat to our plans immediately. The rest of the Castle will fall easily once he is no longer there.” John Devries grinned evilly at the ease in which is prey had come to him. He would see to it that Alicia had a lock of the ebony hair to hang round her neck in remembrance of the dead!

“Yes! Come Pierre, we will make it our goal to take him from the horse.” Jacques jeered with his friend. They proceeded to watch and wait for the Black Knight to ride by.

Edwina was focused. She had nothing on her mind except the defence of the Castle Lascelles and the residents within - all the residents. As Raven galloped around the rise, the sudden movement from either side of her startled her as a large jousting pole was aimed in her direction. She avoided the first attack, but the second came from a third position. She was unable to defend herself. She felt, rather than saw the pole smash into her left shoulder, making a direct hit between the hinges of breastplate and arm coverings. Having the momentum jolted and the pain she felt as the pole struck her in a tender spot, Edwina felt herself fly out of the saddle and fall with a heavy thud on the hard ground.

Winded and unable to focus on her defence for a few seconds, she was surprised as a broadsword cleaved through the air and only by the grace of god did she move her heavy armoured body out of the way of a man inexperienced with the weapon. Kneeling, she whistled for Raven who obediently came to her aid and knelt by her side so she was able to take her own sword out of the scabbard. Her only hope was that the men had been equally surprised at her rapid fall from grace. They had but now all four came towards her. She was forced to admit, this time she might have miscalculated a little.

“Leave our gallant Black Knight to me my friends. It is fitting I behead him and take the woman he’s asked to marry him for my own.” John Devries had the look of an evil man about him, no compassion in his soul at all.

“John, why don’t we all help? He might be too much for you?” Pierre his friend suggested then was suddenly moving quickly to one side as the young Count gave him a silencing look and wished he’d never said a word. There was no doubt the Count’s reputation as cruel was well served, even towards his friends.

“Black Knight, I’m surprised that you have fallen so quickly. I had hoped for a much more satisfying fight. But, alas it was not to be.” John Devries gave him a mirthless smile and brought his solid bulk towards the fallen knight. He had not noticed that the knight was now armed and waiting for the man to get closer.

“I too, would relish such a challenge from an honourable man. But, I fear you are not one Count Devries. I hope when you meet your maker you rot in hell, for that is surely only what you are fit for.” Edwina spat out.

A surprised cruel gaze festered from the astonished Count at her comment.  He continued to stare at her in obvious contempt.

“Then I will surely meet you there Black Knight. For you are one who moves within the circles of our decent noblemen and takes advantage of their hospitality by intentions beyond his station with the eldest daughter of the Castle. That doubtful sir would be fit for only Satan himself.” John Devries answered and wielded his sword towards the head of the Knight.

The Black Knight with agility unknown in the region of one so laden with armour moved swiftly away to avoid the threatened blow. She was able to parry one of her own and the Count fell to his knees as the blow struck him a glancing blow only on his legs. With that, a full-blown fight was ensued.  However, every time the Black Knight managed to raise her sword to give the final blow and defeat the ever-tiring nobleman, one of his friends interfered, used a poleaxe to thwart the blow. Both Knight and nobleman were tiring after a lengthy fight. Each had struck the other several blows, but not the crushing on that would cause death.

Just as the Black Knight was about to make another such blow, she had to defend herself from a very powerful blow from a quarterstaff? Her head reeled at the strength of the parry. John Devries saw his chance and with a final sweep of his arm leaving himself defenceless with the action, his sword struck the Knight, not were he intended on the head to cleave it clean off the shoulders. But, by some miracle the knight moved a fraction as she heard the swish of the blade towards her head and it struck not only against her neck, but towards the collarbone as well. The blood spurted openly over the Knight and her aggressor. Edwina was aware as her lifeblood flowed that she had but one remaining chance to kill the man. She with aching arms and the pain in her shoulder making her feel sick she used one last thrust towards the open body of the nobleman and sank her blade into his chest.

No friend was able to stop the blow. It had been far too swift. They immediately went towards their fading companion, who had no life left in his body, other than the final sigh that escaped his lips indicating he had finally gone onto another realm. All three had only been along for the ride with their friend. Now, he was dead. They silently looked from the Knight, who was covered in her very own blood and the still form of their friend, lying in a pool of his precious life force seeping deeper at their feet.

Edwina whistled for Raven, who immediately knelt at her side. She slowly and painfully crawled onto her faithful steeds back, which then stood tall and without a word galloped out of the forest clearing with his injured mistress.

~ ~ ~

Alicia and her father had gone back to the party with as little disturbance as possible and made merry with their friends.

The Master of the Guard had been given explicit instructions that the walls be defended at all costs. If there should be a disturbance of any kind out of the ordinary, then he was to signal the alarm with haste. The Master of the Guard had been astounded at the instruction, but he had been impressed with the quiet and reserve of the Black Knight. Who had taken time on his previous visit, to teach the younger soldiers some very useful battle tactics? He himself had welcomed the sparring from such a true knight as the Black Knight had proven to be.

Her sister stopped Alicia as she returned from a dance with one of her father’s friends. “Sister, what can I do for you?”

Sophia looked with compassion at her sister and gave her arm a squeeze of comfort.

“Alicia it is no secret that everyone here in the room believes that the Black Knight has left the Castle. That he has now rescinded his plans to marry you, as our father disavowed it.”

Alicia gave her a slow careful glance. “Then they would be wrong Sophia, the Knight is welcome here and will by the morning be my betrothed, and father approves.”

“Alicia I’m happy for you. I truly am, for I do believe that the Knight does love you.” Sophia expressed sincerely and watched as her sister gave her a tear-filled look.

“Yet, you have a reservation Sophia. I hear it in your voice?” Alicia asked her quietly and waited with a bated breath for the answer.

Sophia smiled weakly at the elder sibling. Her sister for all her travels and the worldly ways she appeared to have mastered was in some things innocent, to the ways of the noblemen of the area. That was no surprise. She had lived in the realms of King Arthur far too long it appeared.

“People here Alicia expect better of you than to marry a Knight that up until tonight was unknown to us in name and that may as yet be unworthy of you.”

“I care not what the people here think Sophia. I care only that I love this Knight and that is enough for me and for he…the knight too!” Alicia was surprised that it mattered to anyone but herself, her close family and the Knight as well.

“Then you should care Alicia. It could bring trouble to our door. We are not capable of a large defence of the Castle and with papa’s health!” Sophia alleged quietly, but her eyes flashed her anger that her sister appeared not to care.

“It is too late for that Sophia. For we are already in trouble and the Black Knight has gone to extinguish the threat or die in the attempt to do so. I think the question of how right the Black Knight is for the people in the area and the defence of the Castle has already been proven. But alas, if it his life they want also, then perhaps tonight they might have their wish.” Alicia spoke angrily, the tears she had held now flowed down her cheeks at the very thought.

“Sister, I did not know. I do not doubt the Knight as some. I believe that you and he are well matched and that you both love enough to make everything right. Please Alicia, do not cry. He will come back. He knows you are waiting for him; that is enough for any man to move every obstacle in his path.” Sophia sought to bring the smile back to her sister’s face. She was given a weak smile in return for her efforts.

“Let us sit by father as a united family as we have always been Sophia. In my heart I want nothing more than to see the Black Knight walk through the door and all the ills of the day be behind us.” Alicia pulled her younger sister along and they smiled at their father. As they seated themselves at his side, he gently patted both daughters arm in warmth and understanding.

~ ~ ~

The Black Knight knew only that the world around her was swimming. Her armour was now covered with the crimson blood that flowed freely from her heavy cut on her shoulder and neck. If the blood was not stemmed soon she knew she would die. Her eyes swam with the tears of pain and frustration as she continued to hold precariously on the horse, that to her was flying through the air at great speed.

‘What if she didn’t make it and stop the small force that was attempting to take the Castle? What if Alicia should be hurt or worse die at the hands of these men? What if she died herself without protecting the most important person in her life one last time? What if….’ Her mind refused to contemplate any more of that. It was too melancholy and she had a task to complete and complete it she would regardless of the consequences. There could only be one result - that Alicia live.

Edwina cursed the very night that stopped her from seeing her goal. She felt rather than saw the Castle appear, as Raven slowed slightly and he cantered towards the gates.

“Who goes there?” a gruff voice solider asked from his position on the top wall with a bow aimed at the Knight.

“The Black Knight,” her voice was hardly a whisper as her mouth had become dry and words proved difficult to voice.

“Speak up rider, it is dark we cannot see you, so state your purpose here at Castle Lascelles?” the soldier said again and was joined by another.

“The Black Knight, defender of the honour of Castle Lascelles.” Edwina shouted with what little strength she still possessed.

Several minutes lapsed without another word and then the gates opened to allow the injured rider to move inside. Raven responded without prompting to the gates and cantered his mistress inside the enclosure. As they shut the Master of the Guard came forward with a burning torch and saw the profusion of blood.

“Black Knight you are hurt? Please, we will tend you.” The man spoke compassionately.

“No!” The Black Knight responded as her eyes focused on the burning torch and the light it brought back into her life. She would see Alicia one last time if that was what god willed.

“Paul, I need to be cleaned up quickly and tell you of the force that threatens the Castle.” Edwina replied and slid from her steed, tried to walk, but needed the large thickly set man to help her towards the stables.

“You might die if you do not see a healer.”

“We will all die if I do not say my piece Paul. When it is over, I will see the healer.” The Knight responded quietly.

~ ~ ~

Everyone in the hall heard a trumpet sound and Alicia looked at her father that could only mean that the Black Knight had failed in her endeavours that night. Alicia did not want to break down in the sight of the guests. With her sister following her closely behind her, she exited the hall and ran to her room. Her sobs echoing in the corridor as she did so.

Lascelles looked at his guests and explained that it was possible that an attack on the Castle was imminent. Anyone willing to defend the Castle would be welcome, but he would understand if some left.

Several minutes later he was amazed at the response. All had rallied to the defence of the Castle, even his friend Count Devries. It had warmed his heart when he had clasped the shoulder of his friend. If that were to be fate, then they would fall together.

As they all prepared for the defence of the Castle, the large hall doors swung open and in walked the Black Knight with the Master of the Guards. Count Lascelles was struck dumb at the sight. He was sure, as his daughter had been, that the knight must be dead.

“Count Lascelles, I have extinguished the person who had the most to gain from the attack on the Castle. But the army he sent before him does not know this. We will have to defend the Castle and find a way to communicate those facts to them.” The Black Knight said slowly and distinctly. She did not feel totally well. It was a struggle just to say the words. Paul had stayed behind her and discreetly held a hand on the small of her back to keep her from swaying.

“Sir Knight, I thank you for your efforts. How soon will we see the foes?” Lascelles asked politely, but in his heart he was happy that the Knight had survived and he knew his daughter would be also.

“I think in the next hour, the hour before daylight returns. Count, I wish to talk to the army before we cross swords.” The Black Knight said and watched the frown appear on his forehead.

“Why?”

“Because we are out numbered and it is a chance that needs to be taken.” Edwina spoke and felt her body weaken and also experienced the comforting and supportive hand that held her in position.

Lascelles considered this and smiled, “I cannot deny you anything. For not only have you saved my life, you have defended my Castle and proved worthy of the love my daughter has for you Black Knight. Go do what you must, but please talk to my daughter first,” the last a pleading with the Knight, who looked so intimidating to everyone in the room but him.

The Black Knight hesitated only a moment and nodded her head. Turning towards Paul, she lifted her visor and he saw a pained smile. “Alicia will expect no less, thank you Paul.”

The Master of the Guards looked at the warm blue eyes and smiled. “At your service Sir Knight. But please, allow me to escort you to the Chambers of the Lady and I will wait.”

The firm tone of the man made Edwina smile and she inclined her head accordingly.

“Thank you.” As people moved to let them thread through the room, she swayed slightly and Paul made sure he supported her accordingly.

As the Knight moved forward towards the passage to the family quarters, Lascelles saw the slip from the Knight and his heart sunk at the situation. He hoped that Alicia might have at least one night of love with her Knight, but perhaps that was not to be.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Eight

The master at arms knocked heavily on the large ornate oak door. Within seconds the door was whisked open and Sophia looked at the bulky man standing there.  She stared at him intently, wondering why he would be at her sister’s door.

“Milady sorry to disturb you, but I have a visitor who seeks an audience with Lady Alicia.” Paul stated politely, his bulky frame moved slightly to reveal the tall presence of the Black Knight from his obscurity to the eye of the young woman.

Sophia gasped as she saw the one person who could bring the light back into her sisters eyes. “Black Knight?” the words whispered in awe.

The Black Knight moved her painfully aching body into full view. Paul moved away so she would fill the doorway without moving too much, wasting any essential strength. “Yes, Milady. Is Alicia in her chamber?” the measured voice of the Knight asked quietly.

“Of course. Of course, please Sir, come inside.” Sophia waved an agitated arm gesturing the Knight forward.

“Thank you. Paul, I will need to know immediately if the arrival of the army should enter the area earlier than I anticipate.” The Knight turned and addressed the bulky man, who in turn nodded his head, then went back to lean easily on the wall opposite the door smiling as he did so.

Sophia had by this time left the doorway and rushed to her sister who was starring unseeingly into the dark recesses of the courtyard.

“Alicia! He is here, the Black Knight is here!” Sophia expounded excitedly at the prospect of the reunion of two people, obviously in love. It warmed her tender heart.

Alicia stiffened at the words and slowly turned to look first at her sister whose eyes shone with the truth of the words. Then she glanced towards the doorway and saw for herself the tall black as night form of her lover to be!

“It’s you? It really is you?” her voice whispered unable to bear it should the picture before her suddenly disappear as Edwina had earlier in the evening.

Edwina was light-headed through her injury, but the light-headedness she felt now had nothing to do with that. The beautiful sight before her simply took her breath away.

“At your service Milady.”

Edwina moved gingerly forward and released a grateful breath that she was able to do so unaided.

Alicia rushed forward and without a concern for the open doorway, or the master at arms, who was merely whistling merrily to himself, or her sister who was trying to leave the room discreetly.

The Black Knight lifted her visor and blue eyes met green, each relaying a message of love.

The full lips of the Knight creased into a smile that warmed Alicia from her head to her toes. “I love you!” Simple words said with so much feeling that Edwina wanted to throw caution to the winds and make love to the young woman here and now!

Edwina smiled an even bigger smile if that were possible and reached out a gauntlet hand to gently caress the pale silky skin of Alicia’s face; which now had the pearl drops of tears seeping slowly down to remind Edwina of a waterfall.

“Milady, we need to talk.”

Alicia wanted to take her Knight into her arms not talk and to the devil with convention. But the expression and the serious tone of the woman before her caused her to hold back brimming emotions for the moment anyway. A click was heard as the door was closed behind the retreating figure of Sophia.

“My sister obviously agrees. So please dear Knight, pray tell me what it is that makes your eyes troubled with such a burden.”

Alicia walked over to the window. The breeze moved the heavily brocaded curtains in a gentle motion. The moonlight shedding light into the darkened recess of the balcony. The Black Knight inhaled a deep breath and walked with concealed difficulty towards the woman she loved.

“Milady this night, I have vanquished the nobleman who saw fit to bring a war to your household.” Edwina stated matter of factly.

Alicia turned a bright smile to Edwina and soon displaced it with a frown as she saw the silent mask of worry on her beloved’s face.

“That is not all Edwina?” Alicia wasn’t about to keep up the formality of courteous names, as they were now alone.

“No! No, it is not my…Alicia,” Edwina smiled briefly as she saw a lightening of the frown on her loves face. “The army had been despatched prior to my battle with the man. It will arrive in little over an hour.”

Alicia turned to face the Knight. They were inches away, but the heavy gauge helmet obscured her vision.

“I see. What will that mean to us?”

Her hand reached up and stroked a finger over the lips that quivered at her touch and captured them and caressed them with a kiss that set Alicia’s heart racing at the sensual reaction.

Releasing her hold on the delicious finger at her lips she answered. “I want to try and talk to them before they begin the battle and both sides lose lives needlessly.” Blue eyes wandered to the slowly approaching dawn and the hills that would herald their opponents in battle.

Alicia pondered the serious profile she could barely see. The pallor of the skin that she placed at the door of the strain of the night and Edwina’s previous encounter in battle. “Will you do me the honour of taking off your helmet so that I may look upon your face prior to your leaving me once more?”

The softly spoken words cut into the Black Knights heart. For without a doubt, if she removed her helmet, then her love would see the injury she was loath to show.

“I cannot Alicia, what if I should be called and forget my helmet in the haste of the moment?” Edwina tried to prevaricate and saw the disappointment flood the expressive face before her. That was her undoing and if this were her final moments with the woman she loved, so be it. They must have no secrets. Removing the helmet carefully and sucking in a swift breath as the metal chaffed against the cloth that was clearly blood soaked and resting on her injured shoulder.

Alicia looked at the slow removal of the helmet and heard the intake of breath that spoke of pain and then spied the nature of the difficulty. A crimson coloured cloth that had once been as white as the driven snow resting as a bandage on Edwina’s shoulder.

“Edwina you are hurt!” Alicia cried out. Her anguish evident on her face, this was no superficial injury. She had nursed many a fine Knight in her days at Camelot. Hands tender and with a featherlight touch removed the offending cloth to enable her to see the damaged shoulder and her gasp was one of both pain for the Knight and distress at the possible consequences this could have on their future together.

“That is a truth Alicia, but it will have to wait until the battle is either aborted or it is finished. I cannot and will not abandon my responsibility as the protector of this house until we know the final outcome.” Words spoken defiantly to the flashing green eyes, for as her blue ones fell into those pools of emerald, she could so easily abandon her will and take the woman away on Raven to a safe haven.

Alicia vied with her love, for Edwina and her well-being, her responsibility to her father and the people who lived in the castle, as well as the outlying areas. Replacing the cloth gently to hide the wound and hopefully ease the blood loss, she looked earnestly into the beloved face before her. “I will accept your wish Edwina. But know this, I too have a wish and that is you come back to me and marry me as you promised!”

Edwina felt the heaviness of her responsibilities for a brief time flow away into the tempestuous waters of a raging river, to be replaced by the calmness of a gently trickling stream on a warm summer’s day. “I too want that more than anything in this world or the next Alicia. I will endeavour to keep my promise to you. For you are my world.” Edwina had tears of her own shimmering close to the surface and dare not cry for if she did, she could not see the tears ever leaving her until she held the woman in her arms by that trickling stream.

“Then I will pray for you Edwina. Let us hope that god be merciful and allow you to come home to me!” this time Alicia’s hands went up to draw the tall head down, careful not to hurt the wound of her love. There was suddenly a need that craved sustenance and that was the capture of her Knight’s lips in passion and love. As she approached the lips, blue eyes locked with green and a message passed that said simply ‘I’m yours’ and nothing would ever come between them.

A thunderous knock on the door stopped the final fulfilment of the promise. Both eyes glared at the door as it swung open wildly and the Master at Arms rushed forward, refusing to look at them said. “Sir Black Knight the enemy approaches over the ridge. We have but a little time to stop them before they reach the castle.”

“Paul, round up the small force we agreed upon. I will be there in a moment. Please have Raven at the gates also.” Edwina remained close to Alicia. But, she had replaced the lover persona, for that of a true Knight, ready to approach battle and her death, if that was to be her fate this day.

The door was left partly ajar and the Black Knight looked at it first and then made a swift decision. Turning and looking into the embanked passion filled eyes of her love, she smiled gently and bent her head and stole a chaste kiss before Alicia could do more than stare in surprise.

“I love you Alicia Lascelles. If god wills it this day, I will return and you and I will experience all that love has to offer. That is a pledge from an honourable Knight.” Turning away from the Lady before the look Alicia gave her broke her heart and sent all her resolve shattering to the floor in pieces.

Alicia watched the slowly retreating back stagger slightly with her injury. It was a major measure of her own resolve not to run over to Edwina and help her and if at all possible stop her. That would have not helped the proud Knight. If that was their destiny not to fulfil their love in this world, she knew in her heart that it would be in the next, for the fates could not be so cruel to let their love part a second time!

“I love you Edwina D’Argent Lion. Let love be your saviour this day.” Words spoken halted the step of the Black Knight who glanced back one more time and placed a gauntlet hand to her heart and then towards Alicia in recognition and acceptance of the pledge.

Echoing footsteps in the stone corridor made Alicia shed tears as she walked back to her position at the window. This time knowing in her heart, if there were any miracles in this world, she hoped it would be for Edwina this day.

The proud Black Knight walked towards the gates. Her normally speedy gait wavered slightly, but only slightly. There would be no man tonight to see the Black Knight fail at ‘his’ given task.

Raven saw the approach of his mistress and knelt without summons. It was a remarkable sight for everyone, the sombre Black Knight on the equally magnificent dark horse called Raven.

The house of Lascelles was proud this day, for if all fell at the hands of the enemy they would know that it had been a battle for love. And who better to lead them than the Knight who loved the Lady of the house. Who better indeed!

~ ~ ~

Chapter Nine

Sir Louis Destant had ridden over the ridge and saw the luminous Castle lit to effect by a full moon glorious in splendour and quietly waiting the dawn of a new day. He turned slowing in his heavy armour to take in the small force he had control over. They would take the Castle unexpectedly, and swiftly he surmised.

Only he knew that there was another reason other than the claiming of the house for Count John Devries, that being the demise of Devries father. John had said that his father would be staying the night and would fight to defend the home of his friend Count Lascelles. What fitting way for a nobleman to die, fighting for what he thought was a just cause. He himself had been offered the guardianship of the Lascelles Castle and the hand of the younger daughter Sophia. If she refused, he would take her anyway. Who would there be to stop him? That so-called gallant Black Knight would be no match for the numbers here. The paltry guards in this Castle were laughable, if his memory of a visit several seasons ago were anything to judge by.

Destant smiled with an evil glint in his eyes once more towards the Castle that looked peaceful and serene. Then waived his arm to indicate they proceed and with greater speed. What better time than now to take the Castle, especially after a party, no one would be expecting this surprise assault.

All the men looked at their commander, as several changed the way they wore their weapons, the entourage shifted up a level and moved ever more swiftly to their target!

~ ~ ~

Edwina was waiting patiently with three men from the Castle that she had personally hand picked to accompany her. They had been the best in each of their fields of combat when she trained them recently.

They had taken their stance at the lower level of the ridge. Edwina was alone with Raven waiting for the approaching foe to see her, which they would do that in a very short time. Her mind was now focused on the only thing that was important, the saving of the Castle Lascelles from the enemy. If she forfeit her life to that end, she would die happy. Her only regret was, she had not had any more time with her lady, for Alicia was the driving force in her determination to succeed.

Glancing towards the outcropping of rock, which David was crouched with his crossbow protecting her back, her eyes moved to the trees to her left where, Daniel with his sword and Francis and his long staff were awaiting the outcome of the next few minutes... If it went terribly wrong, then Francis had been given the task to leave the battlefield immediately and raise the alarm at the Castle, so Paul would be ready for the onslaught.

The silence around the small area the men and the Knight had taken, as their final stand was strange and eerie.  Yet, it had a feeling about it that brought hope to each of the people at that point in time. It was as if this was a preordained destiny here, and that the world would remember them, even if they failed.

The three men’s horses were snorting quietly, tethered in a secure spot behind a thicket and hidden by large oaks. It was as if they knew that something was about to happen and the quiet was essential; their collective snorts slowly blowing in the early morning cool breeze, making it visible to the naked eye.

Raven was waiting just as quietly.  He looked splendid in the early morning light. His dark flanks gleamed with the brushing that Edwina usually did herself. But this day a young stable hand had meticulously taken care of the war-horse.  He was as resplendent in his armour as he would have been, had she herself carried out the task. Maybe next time….

The Black Knight saw the small army move toward her direction. She was certain that her presence had been seen. It was now or never for the plea to the leader to stop the battle before it had begun. After all, the true perpetrator was dead, there was no need, no need at all for any more carnage this day!

“They have passed the ridge. Are you all ready?” Edwina questioned gently, but audible so that her comrades in arms could clearly hear.

“Yes.” They all responded and watched as the Black Knight gently pressed his magnificent steed forward and headed for the point that would be the talk of the day. Either end the battle, or the inevitable death of the proud heroic Knight, who stood between them and the Castle that held his love. What better reason to die, than for the love of your life!

A pain so acute seized Edwina it nearly tumbled her from the horse. It was only because her beloved Raven knew her body’s posture, she was able to remain in the seat. She remained as ever stoically of bearing. Her thoughts as she faced the oncoming foe head on, was of Alicia’s sweet face. That certainly was the most important thing now, the safety of the woman she loved.

“For the house of Lascelles, for honour and in the face of adversity of numbers, in god, I beseech you to look upon us with favour. For my love, I will honour your request, until I have given my last breath.” Words given to the new day so quietly any living thing would not have heard it, unless close to the lips of the Knight themselves.

~ ~ ~

Count Lascelles had waited long enough to seek out his elder daughter. The Black Knight had gone to the front of the battle some time previously.  Sophia had been unable to gain access to her sister’s chambers, as Alicia had locked the door.

Henri had decided enough was enough. He had with the aid of his great friend, the Count Devries had all the able noblemen fitted with an appropriate weapon. They would defend the Castle of Lascelles and the women and children therein, at all cost, even with the last breath of their lives.

Now, for his headstrong daughter, did the Black Knight really know exactly what she was taking on becoming betrothed to Alicia? Now, if it had been Sophia - what a difference in temperament? Walking with a purposeful stride towards his elder daughters chambers, he smiled to himself as he remembered when he had taken this stance once before. It had been long ago.

“You will not marry my daughter Henri Lascelles. She is wanted elsewhere!” the voice harsh and refusing to see the love of the young man before him.

“No! I will contest anyone for the hand of your daughter.  She is mine!” Henri said with much passion, even the man before him looked astonished at the fervour of the words.

“You! You think you could take on the heroic Knight Claude Fessilur? Please, Henri go home to your small Castle in Normandy. Find a local woman to give you children!” the exasperated Count said, thinking the nobleman dis-illusionary.

“I will not be denied. If I defeat the Knight, will you honour my request to marry your daughter?” Henri inquired, his intentions most definitely clear to the older man.

“Henri if you defeat the Knight, you may take my lands also.  I will change the will accordingly and all my lands pass to your offspring. But, remember this, what if Antoinette is not of the same mind? My daughter is very headstrong. She could say no!” The older man retorted, confidant that the opponent would win. This man was far too meek. He was a lover of music and stories; admittedly he could spin a good tale, but for a son-in-law, doubtful.

“I will ask the question.” Henri replied and left the room. Walking purposefully towards the corridor that lead to the chambers of woman he loved, it would be, as he wanted, he just knew it.

The chambermaid reluctantly allowed him entrance to Antoinette’s chambers, and then moved skittishly to the side of the door. Her headstrong mistress was always restless and she would not tolerate this interruption by a young nobleman. “Sir, please, I will announce you.”

“So be it.” Henri replied, and waited, shuffling nervously from one foot to the other. He might love the woman from a far, but what pray, did she think of him?

Henri turned as he heard someone enter the room. He was pacing in agitation. Then his green eyes beheld the most magnificent blue ones he had ever seen. He had fallen under the spell of the eyes and the young noblewoman months ago when he had seen her at a party.

“Sir you wish to speak to me?” the voice harsh and irritated at his being in her chambers.

“I…I…I!”

“Enough! Sir, if you have something to say, please say it. I have no time to spare.”  The words harsh once more, Henri wondered if the woman before him had any softness in her at all.

Henri collected his thoughts and proceeded to tell her a story of how he had fallen in love with her from a distance and that he was prepared to die to marry her.

“You would sacrifice your life for me? Why?”

“You are my destiny Antoinette. It is written long before we were born that you would marry me. In time, our children will have a destiny that shapes other peoples lives for good! I will die this day for you, in turn, in time you will want to die for me,” words spoken solemnly.

The young women with the blue eyes that at most times would freeze a stream to an iceberg, looked at him with speculation. As green met blue, it was the passing of souls long dead, but alive in memory! Both had a heavy breathing session as it was revealed to each, their destinies were intertwined.

“I will take the sword to win you Antoinette. If I do not win, at least I went into battle with love in my heart. For that I will die for, and defend you for.” Henri said in quiet conviction and saw the startled expression in the cobalt blue eyes.

“You love me? But, we have never met.”

“I saw you from afar. From that day you have been mine. I will defend your honour to the end. If I win and you do not want me, I will depart because I love you.”

“Henri Lascelles have you ever put your life forward in this way before?”

“No! I have never been in love before,” simple words conveyed the depth of the true emotion, that is, if you were prepared to listen.

“If you win this battle Sir, I will honour your love to the end of my days.” Antoinette responded, her words softly spoken, but emotively.

“Then, I will be blessed with your love and savour it, forever.”

“Go, Sir. But, first, do you want any pledge from me?” Blue eyes locked with sea green, a message that was as old as time pasted between them again, making each of them catch a breath at the contact.

“Would you do me the honour of placing your arm on mine this once. And we see your father together, as one?”  Henri requested solemnly, not sure if he had asked the right question.

Antoinette smiled as she placed her delicate hand on the extended arm of the pleading nobleman. It was with great fortitude that she did not take her arm away in haste as she felt a surge of energy pass swiftly between them.

The Count Lascelles smiled at the remembrances of his past. For no matter what happened now, he would be reunited with his love should he die today? If not, he had wonderful memories to impart to his grandchildren. Now to convince his daughter of such!

~ ~ ~

Sir Louis Destant looked with relish at the Black Knight, who with his dark stallion proudly guarded the road towards the Castle. It would be quite the spectacle taking down the lone Knight. Some people never knew when it was wise to leave, rather than defend to the death. Today it would be his death. Who could stop their force? It was far superior to the band of peasants that were so called castle guards?

“Sir, do you want us to take on the Black Knight?” One of his horsemen enquired as he brought his horse to the left side of Sir Destant.

“Ah, that would be so easy to do Claude. But, alas, this is one opponent, I must vanquish on my own. Whatever would our merry band think if I, myself did not take this opportunity”? Destant smiled a devilish grin that glinted in his eyes.

“As you wish Sir. But what if he should take the advantage?” Claude questioned serenely, not wanting to feel the wrath of the Knight who was as cruel, if not worse, than the young Count Devries.

“I will not loose the challenge Claude. All the stories we have heard of the Black Knight are only fiction. They are not based on fact. Had they been factual, he would have been a Knight of the Round table in Camelot. I know through my cousin, he was not!” Destant snarled at the man to his left as they gradually came closer and closer to the Black Knight blocking the road.

“Was your cousin a Knight of King Arthur’s court?” Claude enquires cautiously.

“Of course, he was Claude. My cousin even beat the Black Knight in a small personal dispute, and then the Knight fled the country in disgrace. Arnold was very clear about that. I can defeat my cousin Sir Debouis with ease. Therefore, with those facts, this Knight has no meaning to me, just a fly to be swatted.” Destant curled his lip in a gesture of distaste as he came within ten yards of the Black Knight.

“I will await your orders Sir.” Claude responded, pulling the reins of his horse in the direction of the advancing army as he raised his arm to halt their forward movement.

Destant moved closer, with complete confidence and went within striking distance of a jousting lance; should the Black Knight have one, which he did not!

“So the coward of Camelot wants to try to regain his honour this day? Pity you are not of any competition for me.” Destant spoke with derision and saw nothing to tell him that the Knight even heard his words.

Edwina looked through the slits that gave her a limited, but sufficient view of the golden armoured Knight seated boldly atop a broad chestnut mare. The amour gleamed as the sun rose in the sky behind her. If the words were meant to anger her, she refused to play the game. She sat proudly and remained stoically silent, watching the very confident Knight speak the words, which could hurt no one, for they were untrue.

“WHAT! The coward of Camelot has no tongue? Sir, you are little more than a peasant. For that, I will kill you and feed you to the pigs as swill for that is all you are worth in my eyes.” Destant spit out and moved forward in a menacing way.

Edwina had winced inwardly at the verbiage, but decided her need was to use her strength to either speak sense to this man or defeat him in combat. Lifting a black gauntlet towards the golden form on horseback, she stopped his advance as he looked at her and waited.

“Sir, I do not know you, or of you. But the reason you are here is finished. Your leader is dead!” simply stated, but factual.

“What do you know of who is leader here today? That is I, you pretentious nave. I assure you, it is not a phantom on this horse. So the coward is delusional as well?” Destant snorted and moved slightly closer.

“So, you do not ride on behalf of the young Count Devries?” Edwina inquired with a forceful tone and saw the golden Knight stare in surprise.

“Count Devries is dead?” The question was hesitant, the first indication that the man had a slight puncture in his confidence.

“Yes.”

“How?”

“I killed him. He no longer needs the Castle. So, Sir Knight, before we shed unnecessary blood, please depart whence you came.” Edwina had a suspicion that it was not going to be that easy and kept her mind attuned to any change from the golden figure before her.

“You?” The derisive tone sounded disbelievingly.

“Yes, I! Please turn your army round. There is no need for more bloodshed this day.” Edwina pleaded, but she knew it was a fruitless plea. The Knight was committed. He had much to gain from his expression.

Slamming down his visor, the Knight in golden armour withdrew his sword from its sheath and swiftly began an assault.

Edwina gave one last pray to the gods for her saviour that day and removed her own sword from the scabbard on Raven’s back. Her final thoughts, ‘for you Alicia and love!’

~ ~ ~

Alicia was at her vigilant position at the window when her father walked in and dismissed the maid who was attending her mistress.

Walking over to her position at the window, her father placed a tentative hand on her shoulder and was relieved when Alicia turned to him and buried her head in his chest in comfort. She had always been the more sensitive child of the two. His heart bled for her at this time.

“I don’t want her to die father.” The anguished words flooded out of the tearful woman.

“I know. I know, but daughter, who’s to …I have yet to meet anyone that could match her in battle.” Lascelles said to his daughter, stroking her hair soothingly.

“Papa, she’s hurt!”

Lascelles flinched at the words. What did Alicia mean by that remark.

“Hurt? Hurt Alicia, what do you mean?” Lascelles asked anxiously.

“When she battled the Count Devries, she suffers an injury. I do not think she is able to encounter a fray with a strong knight Father. I think she will be too weak to defend herself properly.” Alicia spoke through her tears, watching the look of despair pass over her father’s eyes.

“I did not know this! Or, I would never have agreed to let her go. I must send more men to help!” Lascelles was beside himself. This was not part of the plan at all!

“She would still have gone Papa. She will defend the Castle and our family to the bitter end.” Alicia spoke solemnly.

“No! How can this be? I allow a Knight so injured to defend the honour of my name and a woman as well!” Lascelles did not realise what he had said and was rounded on by his daughter.

“You will not allow because the Black Knight is a woman? Papa she saved your life! She brought me home. She had to fight one of the Knights of the Round Table to do so, and you say that?” Alicia was distraught with the statement.

“Daughter please, please! I meant only that with her injuries, she should not go into battle alone. I know of her valour and her expertise. She is still the only hope we have of safety and saving our lives. Although daughter, I want her to be saved as well.” Lascelles responded softly, but truthfully into the strawberry blonde hair of his daughter as he kissed the top of her head in comfort.

Looking up into the green eyes that mirrored her own she sighed heavily. “Papa, I will die inside also, if she does.”

Lascelles knew that in his heart and smiled wryly. “Daughter how could there be any other? For you have found the soul mate everyone craves in life. Should you lose it now, at least know this daughter, you felt it for a brief passage in time and many do not.”

“Papa, you are such the romantic.” Alicia smiled slowly. Her tears ceased and green eyes turned towards the early dawn.

“I want to tell you a story Alicia. One that I have never told before. It is a tale of a man so in love with a woman that he will battle any foes for her hand, even though he’s not sure if the woman loves him.”

Green eyes locked with green and he continued. “He battles the foes and lies injured awaiting the final blow when an unexpected hand of fate crosses his path. The woman he loves finally decides she loves him as well!” Lascelles chuckled as the old memory came. It was as if it was yesterday, how he wished his beautiful Antoinette were here to laugh along side him.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Ten

Destant was annoyed with this so-called Knight. It was time to rid his sight of the offending black image on the road. Taking his sword he lunged at the Knight.

Raven had many times reacted without prompting and once again, he did so. The parry that the golden Knight tried was but a swish in the air and displaced nothing, but the swirling new day.

Edwina was suffering great pain as the horse moved, but knew that at least she could save her rather depleted energy for one tangible attack on the Knight. She hoped Raven would know this and react accordingly.

Destant snorted in rage as the horse not the rider evaded his thrust. Now he knew that it was the horse that was the Knights strong point. It was just a parry to the centre of the horse to pierce it’s heart and rid him of the horse and leave the Black Knight open to his mercy, and he had none.

Edwina saw a movement that did not make sense, if the Knight chose to take her on. ‘He was put off position and could only cause injury to the horse…yes of course the horse!’ Her brain did several somersaults as she placed her hand on the flank of the horse and as the parry came close. Tapping Raven, who moved with a swiftness that was unheard of in a large warhorse, they rushed by the Knight who was thrown from his position and left to wonder at his ineptitude.

“Now I know my cousin was right. You are a coward. The horse is your strength and I will kill it, never fear.” Destant expounded in a tone of sheer malice, it was hard not to flinch from the words.

“Your cousin was wrong and I will show you that error.”

Edwina was annoyed at the arrogance of the man, but her love of the stallion was a better testament of her worth than anything else she could possibly think at this moment.

Destant moved forward and brought his sword towards the injured shoulder. Edwina tried but was unable to parry this direct hit. She groaned in acute pain, as the blow in normal circumstances would have just annoyed her. Now knocked her off the stallion and she thudded to the ground. The crash of her armour was to the watching army a victory, and they cheered heartily.

“Prepare to die Black Knight! I will be happy to tell my cousin Sir Arnold Dubois that my sword defeated you. A fitting end, I would think.” Destant motioned over one of the horse tender’s and was helped off the horse and strode with long steps towards the unwilling victim.

~ ~ ~

Alicia had taken the story her father told her to heart and it made her decision that more palatable. Walking over to the dressing area, she quickly selected a suitable costume to the replace the one she currently wore. This dress would not be worn again until her Knight was held safe and tight to her breast.

Within a short time Alicia was ready and had called the maid to fetch her sister to her chambers.

Sophia was annoyed at her sleep being broken. Although, she had to admit that she was only dozing. How could she do any other with the activity now evident in the courtyard below? Stifling another yawn she meandered into her sister’s chambers and sleepily called out to Alicia. “Alicia what do you require at this hour, are you sick?”

Alicia walked into the main area of the chamber and gave a satisfied smirk as she saw the look of surprise appear on her sister’s face.

“No I am not sick, or at least not the sickness of the body, but of the heart.”

“Alicia…what are you dressed like that for? You look…look like a boy!” Sophia exclaimed and rushed to her side and put a small hand to her sister’s brow.

“Sophia, you exaggerate, a boy indeed! I need you to make arrangements for my horse to be at the side of the Castle and open the side doorway for me. I need to make haste Sophia. So, I do not want to pass anytime explaining my actions.” Alicia spoke firmly. Her green eyes locked on the grey of her sisters and a message of understanding passed between them as it had always done as children.

“You are going to him?” Sophia asked softly and saw the warm look project itself back at her and Alicia smiled and nodded her head.

“I knew you would understand Sophia. So, make haste. I need to go now! I will be at the sidewall in a few minutes.” Turning away to walk back towards her dressing area, she swiftly changed her mind and ran towards her sister and hugged her in a ferocious loving hold, whispering into her ear. “I love you Sophia, look after Papa for me.” She then released her stunned sister who had tears trailing down her cheeks at the affectionate gesture.

Sophia managed to calm herself and left the room immediately, walking as fast as her feet would take her to the stables and hopefully she wouldn’t be delayed too long in explanation.

~ ~ ~

Count Lascelles was sitting in the hall close to the log fire burning brightly in the large open fireplace that was the main feature of the room. Above the large stone mantle was a tapestry that was the last one his wife had finished prior to the plague taking her away from him. It was a scene out of their lives, a small clearing that had a large oak tree and close to the bank of a small trickling stream. Along the banks sat a man with a woman held closely in his arms beside the tree in happy contemplation of the two children frolicking near the stream, two small girls one with the red hair of sunset, the other the golden aura of the day laughing heartily.

“You would be proud my love. Oh, so proud of our fine children. Alicia she is so like you in temper and bearing. I think you would approve of the match between her and the Black Knight, even though it will not bring us grandchildren. At least she will marry for love and that is all that matters in this world as we two found out and what a way to spend that short span of time with the one you love.” His voice low and solemn, but not unhappy. He would always have his love in his heart. She would always be there forever!

A voice clearing close to his right shoulder brought the moist eyes of the Count to the person who had gained silent entry to the hall. “Pascal, you old rogue, come sit by me as we wait for the outcome be it peace or war.” The Count smiled at his greatest friend Count Devries.

“You are such a dreamer Henri. How you convinced Antoinette to marry you is totally beyond me. It was such a shock for her father! Do you remember how he tried everything to convince Toni not to marry you?” Pascal sat next to his friend and retrieved a goblet of red wine and sipped it slowly, looking into the fire as old happy memories asserted them and he could imagine the scenes all over again in the glowing embers of the fire before.

“Ah, yes, but my Toni always did have her father wrapped around her little finger. She had told him forthrightly, that he would not see his grandchildren should he not accept her wishes.”

Henri smiled and looked up at the tapestry that depicted his wife. She had been a very forceful personality. They had been a good team together - the best!

“That she did Henri. That she did. I think the lady Alicia takes after her Mama in very much the same way. I trust she is going to marry the Black Knight when this is all over?” Pascal chuckled at the red stain that came over Henri’s features.

“How could I resist, she is her mother’s daughter after all! I think Toni’s father and I would have much in common now, don’t you think?” Henries eyes twinkled at the mere thought of having something in common with his father in law, the old man would be turning in his grave.

“Yes, my friend! I’m sure you would but you always did you know!” Henri looked at his friend quizzically.

“You both loved Toni. He might not have wanted you as a son-in-law, but he knew that she was in the safest possible hands for you loved her even more than he did and for that he was thankful.” Pascal saw the looked of puzzlement be replaced by a thoughtful look and then a brief smile.

Lifting up his goblet he raised it to his friend and said. “To all the loves of today and those of yesterday; let there be peace this day.”

Both men drank slowly from the goblets and both contemplated the fire, deep in thought, but knowing that whatever they had shared some very happy moments together.

~ ~ ~

Sir Louis Destant loomed over the prone figure of the Black Knight who was struggling to remain conscious as the pain from her injury rocked her to the core. Her mind unable to grasp the mention of the Knight in Camelot who had called her a coward, but she would remember it in the future, she was certain if she had a future. Her addled mind creating images so indistinct she wasn’t sure what was real and what was illusion. “No fight left in you peasant? It will be my pleasure to laugh in the face of the Count Lascelles as I slit him in half, that his gallant hero is in fact a snivelling coward.”

Edwina heard the words and this time she felt the fire burning deep in her belly, no one maligned her love’s fathers name again while she still had breath left in her body, no one! “I think not Sir!” Edwina snarled and Destant was startled at the menace in the tone and even more amazed when the Knight moved into a kneeling position and held tightly to the hilt of the sword.

Destant gave an evil laugh and moved towards the still seemingly defenceless Knight. “Who will save you Black Knight?” Destant scanned the area for any back up there appeared to be none.

David and Daniel held their breath, waiting for the sign from the brave Knight that he wished for them to attack. But, it had not been forthcoming and they did not know what to do. The only thing they had decided was that Francis would leave for the Castle once the Black Knight had fallen from his horse.

The Black Knight lifted her visor so that she was able to see the enemy in front of her with a clear vision, her blue eyes glinting in the morning light. Destant looked deep into those blue orbs and was fascinated that he did not flinch from death, nor did it look like defeat in the eyes before him.

“Love will save me.” Edwina finally managed to say her throat dry and sore her energy at perilously low levels with no hope of recharging.

Destant scoffed at the words, “Love? Love is for the foolish not the brave of heart. Whoever heard of love as a saviour?”

“I DID!” A loud clearly defined voice said behind Destant.

Destant heard the voice and turned around suddenly forgetting the prone figure of the Knight in his shock at the sudden arrival of another to the scene. “YOU!”

“Sir, is that how to show respect to a lady?” Alicia smiled sweetly, but her eyes held a cold flint like look as she surveyed her beloved on the ground and the closeness to death her posture indicated.

“A lady would not be here. So, you are no lady in my eyes. When this is over, I will show you just what I think of one such as you who would mix with the peasant stock.” Destant spoke harshly clearly, insulting the young woman.

She glanced at the blue eyes of her beloved and saw a flash of fire spark and saw unbeknownst to the arrogant Knight in front of her. Edwina rose slowly and reached for the small dagger on her right-hand side.

“I demand that you say that to me. I defend the lady’s honour sir.” Edwina said her voice barely audible, the angry tone could be heard, even if the words did not bear clarity.

Sir Louis Destant turned and realised his mistake in turning his back on his opponent as the Black Knight lunged one final time towards the large man. Her small dagger found its target in the defenceless chink in the armour near the shoulder. Her thrust dealt a fatal blow as her training demanded in such circumstances. As the Knight fell to the ground in agony, his words came strangling out in disbelief. “Love? You said Love…?” He fell onto his face and the army that had previously cheered, now had the silence of the grave about them.

“Yes, love!” Edwina herself struggled as her knees buckled and she fell to the ground unable to remain standing. David and Daniel ran forward to cover the back of the Knight. His lady Alicia quickly dismounted from her horse and moved swiftly towards her love.

“Of course, love, my dear Knight, how could it be anything else between us.” Alicia whispered as she gently cradled as much of the woman as she could in her arms with the weight of the battle armour obstructing her ministrations. Tenderly placing the injured body to the ground as she stroked the damp dark hair away from blue sapphire eyes and saw the pain Edwina was unable to mask. Beneath that, she saw the trust and the love that Edwina had in her and it made her smile as tears of happiness flooded her being.

“I will always love you Alicia,” blue eyes captured green and spoke of a love that would transcend death itself to survive.

“I know that Edwina, I know. I will always love you forever and ever.” Alicia spoke softly into the ear closest to her and watched as the Knight closed her eyes and her hand that had held her loves slipped from within now limp on the black armour.

Alicia placed her head on the chest of her beloved and sobbed until a hand gently brought her back to the matter in hand; there was still an army out there.

Raven had moved closer to his mistress and snorted for attention.

Alicia looked up at the steed her eyes heavy with unshed tears.

“Raven keep our gallant Knight safe for me!” Her words echoing in the clearing and the two men who had witnessed the death of the Black Knight could only gulp back their own tears at the sight. The black steed knelt and the two men placed the still form of the Knight on the horse.

“Let us rid this army of our lands, shall we?” Alicia spoke forcefully to the two men as they mounted their respective horses and rode without fear to the heart of the enemy.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Eleven

Francis was riding as if the very devil was at his heals and shouted for entry at the gates of the Castle. Paul responded and opened the gates; a sight he was hoping would not be needed in this way.

“Francis, what of the Black Knight?” Paul the master at arms asked anxiously.

“He was taken from his horse with ease Paul. I do not know the outcome, but it did not look good for us! The black Knight would want you to know and be ready. He was insistent that we remove the women and children out of the Castle should it come to this battle.” Francis said quietly seeing the expressions of sorrow pass over the bulky man’s face.

“Then I will inform the Count, and Francis, thank you.” Paul swiftly turned and went towards the Castle entrance faster than a man of his bulk normally would be expected to move.

Francis nodded his head and went to the side entrance of the Castle and saw the pensive figure of the younger daughter of the Castle. She was beautiful and he had often fantasised about her. Alas, he was but a poor man at arms. “Milady, it is dangerous in the courtyard this day.” Francis said quietly, averting his eyes, not wanting to drown in the grey pools that lit her sunny face.

“Ah, Francis, but it is the only place that I want to be.” Sophia said absently. She had seen the man at arms on many an occasion and had been entranced at his prowess on the battlefield. She had especially spellbound when he had battled in a good-natured way with the Black Knight. He was a very handsome young man. Pity he was not a nobleman by birth.

“It is by far safer in the Castle Milady. Please. Your father will worry if you do not go back inside.”

Francis came closer his brown expressive eyes shone with affection for the young woman and he smiled briefly.

“You were with the Black Knight Francis? How goes it?” Sophia watched the smile fade and be replaced by a frown.

“It was not good last I saw. We expect the army to be here shortly.” Francis did not want to lie to the Lady.

“The Black Knight is dead?” Sophia gasped out. What of her sister?

“At that time no, but it did seem the outcome was but a formality Milady.” Francis turned to look into her troubled eyes there was something more.

“My sister!” Sophia exclaimed and slow tears fell on her pale cheeks, Francis was at a loss to know what to do.

“Milady please, I did not wish to upset you, perhaps if you went to see your sister she will surely need your comfort now.” Francis said compassionately.

“I cannot Francis for my sister is gone!”

“Gone? I do not understand Milady?”

“She followed the gallant Knight. What will happen to her now?” Sophia was beside herself she wanted nothing more than to go and look for her sister.

“The lady Alicia is near the battle field?” Francis was shocked. His face paled at the thought.

“Yes! What must I do Francis?” Sophia looked wretchedly towards him for help.

Francis wanted nothing more than to ease the pain he saw in the eyes looking towards him helplessly.

“I will go out and seek the Lady and bring her home. Please, Milady, you had better inform your father and stay indoors; it is safer there.” He turned not giving her another glance and went over to the stables for a fresh mount and a quick discussion with Paul.

Sophia watched the man at arms move with fluid grace towards the stables. She felt for the first time since Alicia left the Castle that perhaps there was hope; if not for the Black Knight, at least for her sister.

~ ~ ~

Alicia looked at the man seated on the chestnut mare. He moved neither forward nor back at her approach. She remained determined in her seat on her horse. Eventually coming within speaking distance to the man, she looked at him directly.

“I know you Claude Arinate! You are friend of the young Count Devries. Am I to believe that he has a hand in this sorry mess before us?” Alicia spoke with such a touch of steel. The man thought it was a dagger piecing his eardrums.

“Milady, you should not be here; it is far too dangerous.” Claude explained quickly. He had decided that now that Sir Destant was dead, he would await further instructions from the Count himself when he arrived.

“I am here to stop the danger sir. You obviously are not. And pray tell who was the Knight that lies defeated at the feet of my betrothed.” Alicia had wanted to turned her face away in anguish as she said the words, but could not it had to be the brave of heart today. She had promised that much to herself and the memory of her beloved.

Claude swallowed at the harsh words he had no personal wish to bring harm to the lady before him. “Sir Louis Destant, he was a friend of the Count Devries from childhood days.” Claude responded and watched as an expression of disgust crossed her face.

“Then it is fitting that both are dead this day, by the hands of the Black Knight; who sort only to bring peace to this area and the lands of my father.” Alicia retorted and was pleased that the news of Devries death had surprised the man before her.

“John is dead too?” Claude asked in a whispered tone. He couldn’t believe it. What did they do now? He had no want of a battle.

“Yes, where you left him, so the Black Knight duly informed us earlier.” Alicia stated coldly.

Claude thought for a few minutes as he gazed over the small army that would do as he bid. Silently, he raised an arm as Alicia held her breath considering what would come next. It would be so easy for him to kill her and advance towards the original goal.

Several horsemen came forward and Claude looked at each one in turn, and then spoke firmly. “We no longer have reason to continue our advance on the Castle Lascelles. We will return home.” The defeated man stated solemnly as all eyes went from him to the woman who sat proudly on the grey dappled mare.

Alicia released her breath and a heavy sigh came from her lips and the two men who flanked either side of her gave each other a wry smile of satisfaction.

“Milady, I will never set foot on your lands. That is a promise on my honour.” Claude turned and rode off to head the flight home.

Alicia looked at the retreating army and was both happy at the sight, but deeply sorrowful as she turned back to clearing and the two dead figures. She could not prevent the tears falling as she steered her mare around and headed back to Raven and her beloved charge. For today love had indeed won the battle, but it had not won the war. Her heart was heavy as she slowly cantered down to be with the woman she loved but for a short time. ‘In another lifetime my love.’ Her mind whispered the words and she took heart from them for she was sure it was Edwina’s voice she heard in her thoughts.

As those words filtered through she was astonished to see that Raven had left the area and no trace was left of the Black Knight, she had disappeared into the forest as King Arthur had done into the lake.

What manner of mystical mystery was this?

~ ~ ~

Epilogue

A year had past since the remarkable turn around of what was to be a siege, petered out to nothing except the death of a few Knights.

The Castle Lascelles was a happy place. For it heralded the birth of a son to the daughter of the Castle. The old Count was bustling around like a mother hen. He had said that he wanted to tell his grandchildren stories of love and battles and good over evil and he would now have the opportunity. He himself had rested so much in the last year; his own injuries that had taken their toll had finally been laid to rest. He was now confident that he would see more than one grandchild in his lifetime.

The Castle hall was being given a good cleaning. Fresh flowers were being placed in many of the areas dedicated to the birth of the new heir to the Castle. For the Count had changed legally the way the Castle would be willed in the family line.

Walking towards the large fireplace, he saw the huddled figure of his great friend Pascal Devries. Who had aged considerably after finding out that his own son had arranged the siege on the Castle. Had it not been for the Black Knight, all would have been lost, including his own life.

“Ah, my friend. I see I cannot keep you away from the wine on this wonderful morning?” Henri relinquished, laughing merrily and placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Dulled eyes looked up into those of his friend. He smiled slowly. The hurt of all the previous memory were about to be replaced by the christening of his friend’s grandson.

“My friend you always did have the best wine cellar in France and well you know.”

“I want only the best for my family as always.” Henri chuckled, sitting himself next to his friend as he retrieved a goblet of the tasty wine for himself.

“Pascal a toast to the love of today and of yesterday. May peace remain firm in our hearts.” The goblets chinked together and both men drank heartily.

“Love as always will conquer all.” Pascal said and both men then started to relate memories of long past days.

~ ~ ~

Alicia smiled at Francis and hugged him as he laid the baby in the crib and they both looked at the new arrival to the Lascelles family.

“He’s Beautiful Alicia, just like his mother.” Francis said and looked at the woman at his side smiling back at him.

“You are a flatterer Francis. I’m sure David here will not thank you for that comment. He will want to be a strong looking young man like his father when he grows to maturity.” Alicia countered seeing the red tinge his cheeks at the statement.

“My dear, I will try to remember that. But, he does have the look of his mother. She is a very, very beautiful woman.” Francis fixed his eyes on the small baby, touching a tender finger to the hands that grasped his finger in a strong hold.

“Yes, yes that is true…beautiful.” Alicia responded. Her mind in a faraway places that only she went.

“Who is beautiful?” Sophia walked into the room.

Her husband, who kissed her hair and smiled down at her, enclosed her in a loving hold.” Why you of course my love. But you have a second, in our son here.” Francis acknowledged.

Sophia blushed at the compliment and raised her eyes to gaze lovingly into the man who she had to beg to marry her. But he was no match for a woman from the house of Lascelles.

“If you two do not mind I will go for a walk. I will be back for the party never fear.” Alicia watched the love and affection pass between the happy family unit and she walked swiftly out of the room, her heart containing sadness she could barely contain.

~ ~ ~

Some time later she was riding her mare towards the clearing where she had held her love for the last time…and heard words whispered from those lips…and the look of love from those eye she would give her life to see one more time.

She had often sought sanctuary in this area. The young woman had been pleasantly surprised to see a small stream with a large oak settled into a deep recess that was easily overlooked. Tethering her horse at the tree, she smiled at the tranquillity the place always gave to her even though, it was the final place she had seen her beloved.

Sitting under the branches as the sun filtered through the trees and she took peace from the silence that surrounded her in this place.

They had sent messengers from all around the area to find the magnificent black horse called Raven. But the horse and rider were never seen anywhere from that day forward.

Alicia had sent letters to friends in England, the bordering countries, but alas, no information was forthcoming. It was as if horse and rider had been but a figment of over active imaginations. It was as if it had been but a dream that had suddenly been broken and the reality was far different.

There had been some recent news that had astonished her. But after talks with Daniel and David after the near battle, it had seemed fitting in her eyes. Sir Arnold Dubois had been slain in a personal battle of honour only the month before by some mystery Knight who had left as quickly as he had appeared. To this day, no one could say who it had been; only that Sir Dubois had known whom he fought. She had been apprised of the information, as it was known of her love for the Black Knight and that his name had been cleared of any cowardly association, being the last word spoken by the dying Knight.

Now, a year later at least, they could celebrate something other than the death of such a brave and gallant Knight as Edwina D’Argent Lion had been, to not only her but also the area in general.

“In another lifetime my love.” Alicia whispered to the small breeze that moved her hair forward into her eyes as she shut them deep in thought.

“Would you care for it to be this lifetime?” a voice she only heard in her dreams sounded clearly in the now still air, the breeze miraculously gone.

Alicia dare not open her eyes as she turned towards the voice.

“It cannot be!” her voice so low it was hard to hear the words.

She felt a movement at her side. Suddenly her chin was lifted gently and a lean finger traced the slow trail of tears that had leaked out of the closed eyelids.

“It can be whatever you want it to be Alicia. Please, my love open your eyes?” a tentative plea from the one voice she had thought stilled forever except in her imagination.

Alicia slowly opened her eyes and she sank into the sapphire blue that she had thought forever lost. Her own green ones shone with tears as she experienced the soul reaching connection the simple glance and touch of the woman she loved could bring forth.

“How can this be?” her voice trembling and questioning as her eyes greedily took in every facet and line and expression that was allowed to her.

“Raven knew better than all. He galloped to the cave of a healing woman. I cannot say for how long my life was in the balance, but as I thought it was finally to end, I felt a light beckoning me back to this life and I answered it. That light was you my love.” Edwina replied, not really answering the question, but it did not matter for now. Her fingers gently cupped the face of the tearstained face she loved and had missed in the months of her recuperation.

Alicia sighed softly and pursed her lips against the finger tracing her lips.

“Why did you not return earlier? I would have gladly helped you heal your wounds Edwina. I thought you dead. How cruel is that?”

Edwina knew the truth of the words, but she shook her head gently, “It was the wish of the old healer that I stay until I was totally healed. I gave my promise Alicia, would you want that? For me to break my promise when she had saved my life?”

“No! No, I would not want that, but could word not have been sent? That would have lightened my heavy heart my love?” Alicia asked as she saw the tears appear in the blue eyes before her.

“When I was fit again it was many months from the day Raven left the battlefield. I did not know if you would want me back, or that you had not found another. I also had some unfinished dilemma I needed to complete. It might not have gone my way, then it would have been cruel to mourn my death twice would it not?” Edwina let a tear splash down her cheek. However, she did not tear her eyes away from the green ones she had dearly missed, as she waited for words from the smaller woman to seal her fate.

Alicia anxiously put her hands around the neck of this so precious body that had been given back to her. She was going to hold on and on and on…forever this time.

“Are you still going to marry me?”

Edwina beamed. Her entire face lit up with the joy of the straightforward question. She came close to the cherry red lips that had always been in her mind as she waited impatiently for the wound to heal, her constant thoughts were always of coming back and claiming this woman as hers. “Alicia Lascelles would you do me the honour of becoming my wife I who am but Edwina D’Argent Lion with nothing to offer, other than my heart and a love so strong it will be yours for all eternity?”

Alicia caught a breath and decided that this time words had no meaning but actions spoke equally as well if not better. Pulling the dark head forward she placed passionately waiting lips to the full lips of her suitor and the kiss that they exchanged changed their lives forever.

As mouths slid and danced a dance that only lovers know and tongues beseeched an opening to tangle deliciously together it was for the two lovers a meeting of souls that had evaded death itself. The sensation that the kiss evoked in them both, sent them slowly down into the velvet green grass as their bodies fused together for the first time. Each unable to do anything but surrender to the deep building passion that the kiss demanded of them. Clothes a barrier that would be dispensed with, and eventually bare bodies reacted to the stimulating connect of breast-to-breast, limb-to-limb. For them both, the ultimate act of love was theirs and theirs alone. To be savoured and experienced time and time again for as if by enchantment, their love had conquered all!

This day was for lovers long lost, but reunited. Love had not only won the battle, but it had won the war over hate and as in all good stories there are adventures anew to experience as love would grow never to be distinguished by anything ever again.

Once upon a time…

End