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Dangerous Games	By : MarianTheBlackadder Category: G through L > Hollow Crown, The Views: 1882 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters or I recieve no money for writting this story. All charaters and story lines belong to William Shakespeare and PBS who aired "The Hollow Crown Series"

Chapter List
- 4
- 5
- 6
Passionate Embraces
            The Prince lay on his side watching Macrae sleep admiring the way her chest rose and fell with each soft breath. There were so many reasons he couldn’t take his eyes off of her, but the fact that after everything they shared she was still a mystery to him was perhaps most intriguing of all.
            Reaching over he rested his hand on her head a moment before stroking her soft hair ever so gently. He enjoyed the way her locks curled around his fingers and the strawberry highlights of her hair seemed to sparkle in the light. She was so very lovely. Carefully his fingers moved to where the wound on her head was, he saw the scar was hidden by her hairline and had healed rather well. One would have to be this close to her to see it and that was very unlikely.
            Hal leaned over and kissed her shoulder, then her neck nuzzling her warm skin wrapping his arm around her continuing to lavish her with kisses and nibbles. A small smile swept Macrae’s face as it seemed she would not be allowed to sleep any longer. “Already?” She asked in a quiet voice.
            “It’s been ages.” He said with a grin as he kissed her shoulder once more before wrapping his arms around her kissing her again.
            “It’s been less than a half hour, my lord.” She said with a chuckle resting her hand against the side of his face looking into his beautiful eyes. “Honestly, I am going to have to wear you out much better if any sleep is to be had aren’t I.”
            “Oh yes, please.” Hal said with a devious look as they began to kiss once more. They rolled over each other, once and then again coming to rest with Macrae on top. She sat up straddling his hips as she reached up running her fingers through her hair to move it back off her face as she looked down at him. He smiled just admiring her beauty as she stretched and arched her back.
            She smiled softly looking down into his eyes, “No one has ever looked at me the way you do.” She admitted.
            “How so?” He asked resting his large strong hands on her thighs.
            “People look at me through the eyes of lust, through the eyes of fear, but you . . . look at me differently.” She touched her fingers to his face and gently stroked his cheek to his chin.
            “I care about you.” He said gently. “I look at you through the eyes of your lover. You’ve never had one of those before. Not really.”
            “I’ve not had time for such things. Too much do, too many things that must be seen to. I wasn’t looking for you or for this when we met.” She admitted.
            “Well,” He said finding her hands and taking them in his own, “We have many years to catch up on, don’t we?” He said with a smile, “Years of neglect that must be made up for.” He kissed her hands and reached up pulling her down and hungrily consuming her lips as she anxiously returned his affection.
            Hal started to wrap his other arm around her but she giggled and pulled away, unstraddling him and standing going to the table and picking up an apple. He pouted slightly seeing her sit down in the chair, but he couldn’t argue. He was somewhat famished himself and threw the covers back off of him walking over and getting an apple as well taking a bite. “I must leave soon.” Macrae said as she ate her own.
            “You’ve only been here a few days. You haven’t told me what you wanted yet. Father said that I can reward you however I see fit.” The Prince said.
            “I was working for myself, my lord. You owe me nothing.” She said taking a bite of her apple.
            “Except our lives and my father’s reign over the kingdom.” He said leaning against the table as he ate. “You can have anything you like, all you need do is tell me. Gold, jewels, land . . . . you have always said that ‘Lady’ is not your real title. Perhaps it’s time we made it one. Give you a house and a bit of land of your own so you had some solid roots to return to between contracts.”
            “As soon as you start writing my name down on paper and in books I will begin to exist and then my usefulness will be over.” She reminded him.
            “With titles come privileges.” Hal added.
             “I much prefer to keep on the move, my lord.” Macrae said finishing her apple and wiping her hands clean before sitting back in the chair her legs crossed as she looked at him.
             “There must be something you desire.” Hal thought for a few moments finishing his own apple. She just smiled at him in silence, “How can someone who holds such power over men, not be incredibly ambitious?” Hal asked.
             “Because ambition breeds desire. The more you desire something, the more of a weakness it becomes.” She smiled picking up her glass and taking a drink. “If anything, you have proved this twice over.”
             “On top of which you find yourself a consort of a Prince, the future King of England no less, who has been given leave to give you anything your heart desires and you ask for nothing. If ever there was an enigma that could not be solved, my Lady Macrae makes short work of it.” Hal reached over taking her hand kissing her knuckles.
             “It is why I fascinate you so much, is it not?” Macrae said with a wink before standing and going over to the fire throwing in some more wood and building it to a roaring flame once again. Hal smiled not able to take his eyes from her naked form watching the way she gracefully moved even with something as simple as feeding a fire. He walked behind her and rested his hands on her waist kissing her shoulder then her neck pulling her body against his as he embraced her tightly looking into the flames.
             “I don’t want you to leave.” He said softly in her ear before resting his cheek to hers. “Let me give you something, anything to show my gratitude, and my affection for you.”
             Macrae was quiet for a long time just holding to his arms that wrapped around her, “I believe you already have.” She answered back just as softly.
Bounty
            On the table lay 3 ears that had been cut off against the head laid out on a handkerchief. “Are you certain these are the men?” The Lord asked.
            “Did you prefer their left ears to their right?” Macrae asked.
            He gave an uncomfortable nod before taking out a small purse of money tossing it to her. “You have not disappointed me by any means. But still, this work seems as though it would be beneath you. Cutting off the ears of traitors.”
            “If there were not traitors, then there would be no need for me to do such work.” Macrae answered putting the purse in her cloak. “If you have no further work for me, then I need not darken your doorstep any longer.” She bowed and turned to leave however there were two guards standing at the door blocking her way. Macrae arched a brow turning and looking at her former employer.
            “Is it true,” He began stepping closer towards her, “That you carry the bastard of young Prince Henry within you?” He questioned.
            Macrae’s face darkened having heard this rumor more than once since she’d left Prince Hal almost five months ago. “If it were true, I imagine that the proof would be evident by now.” She said. “Do I look as though I am with child to your eyes?” Her hand was beneath her cloak and moved back to the hilt of her dagger that was hidden underneath her bodice at her back.
            He smirked slightly, “I suppose you do not.”
            “May I ask you, where it is you heard such a fiction?” Macrae said.
            The Lord smirked, “You have been seen keeping the Prince’s company in the castle. The two of you were as thick as thieves at separate banquets. It is said that you share his bed occasionally as well.”
            Macrae smirked, “You should not listen to court gossip, and it is very unreliable and can be very bad for your health.” She warned having just delivered him ears.
            “I suppose so, but you should be aware that it does not do well for your health either.” The lord gave a nod and the two guards moved from the doorway. Macrae starred at him a moment longer deciding wither or not she wanted his tongue as a keepsake, but decided against it and turned leaving the hall.
            So these were the secrets that had spread about her affair with the prince. It was becoming a problem now and making her angry.
In The Shadows
            The Prince sat at Mistress Quickly’s drumming his fingertips against the table. There were volumes of things on his mind, but he found himself missing his lover most of all. It had been nearly 8 months since he had seen or heard anything of her. She still hadn’t given him a way to contact her and it was frustrating.
            He smiled a little bit remembering how beautiful her naked body looked in the glow from the fireplace while she built the flame up again. The way she moved, the curve of her breasts, the wondrous shape of her hips and thighs, the way her hair gracefully draped around her face and down over her shoulders. Her feeling comfortable enough to walk about naked in his room was such a stark contrast to how she usually dressed in public. Covered from head to toe, nothing but her face showing from beneath a large cowl and gloves that concealed, what he considered, her lovely hands. She was so beautiful, and only he got to see it and live to cherish the memory.
            He remembered the way it felt to wrap his arms around her firm body and hold her tight against his. The way her chest rose and fell with each breath, the taste of her breasts as his tongue caressed each nipple as he felt her shutter at the sensation in his arms. She was so very intoxicating, so enchanting, so lovely. These long periods of time between their visits were excruciating. When his father gave him permission to grant her anything as a reward for her help, she wouldn’t choose so he chose for her. He rescinded his father’s order that she was not allowed in the castle without his having summoned her although the other conditions the King made still stood. Of course their meetings would remain discrete but he had hoped that with this her visits would increase, not decrease because of it. This was now the longest stint of time between her coming to him since they had become lovers.
            He closed his eyes remembering the taste of her kiss, the feel of her hands on his body as they clung to his back and shoulders as he anxiously made love to her. He had been thinking about other aspects of their relationship besides the physical intimacy they shared. He thought about how comfortable she had finally become with him. In her life she had put up countless barriers to protect herself from getting close to anyone which was understandable. Her business was death and destruction. She would attract it as much as she supplied it, she had to be guarded. Yet he had been granted such a special and precious privilege that he would never betray her.
            “Why so melancholy today, my lord?” Poins asked as he set a cup of sac down before Hal then sitting beside the prince at the table. “You’ve hardly said two words since you came in this evening.”
            Hal sighed and picked up the cup taking a drink before looking towards Poins, “I suppose my thoughts are simply drifting this evening.”
            Poins half smiled and leaned closer, “Are you thinking of her? The viper whom walks on two legs?”
            The Prince gave Poins a look not certain how he would know that. They had been so careful and discrete in their relationship. At least he thought so. “I do not know what you are referring to.”
            “Honestly?” Poins said, “You cannot truly believe that the affair between the two of you is still a well guarded secret can you sire? Not with the news that she carries your child.”
            “She isn’t.” Hal snapped. “I have heard this rumor circulating on occasion and it is simply untrue.”
            “Are you certain?” He questioned, “She has been away for quite some time, has she not?” Poins pointed out. “Women can be very secretive when they want to be, it would be very easy to hide it from you if she was.”
            “I am telling you Poins that she is not. If she were, I have no doubts in my mind that she would contact me immediately. She would not hide such a thing from me.” Hal said sternly. “The sooner this story is put to rest the better.” He growled taking another drink from his cup.
            It was obvious that this was a tender subject to the Prince, but Poins wasn’t overly bright when it came to not pressing such matters. It would have been better if he were to move on to other things, but instead he moved closer to him. “What if it wasn’t just a rumor? A story someone began in the court to pass the time? What if she truly was carrying your blood within her?”
            That was a question that held countless pitfalls if he thought about it too much. Macrae was an extraordinary woman, but he couldn’t see her as a mother. Not with the work she did, not with the way she thought and believed. Children did not seem to be something she wanted. Settling down in one place making a home for herself didn’t seem like something she wanted either. How could she possibly raise a child under such circumstances? “She is not, so there is no need for such speculation.” He gave Poins a look letting him know he had no desire to keep on with this line of questioning; any other subject under the sun was preferable to this. Poins finally took the hint and gave a nod, understanding now it was time to move on to other things.
Unscheduled Visits
            Having been riding across his father’s fields most of the day, Hal dismounted his horse next to a stream to give him water and stretch his own legs. He patted his horse as it drank before taking his canteen and drinking himself.
            “Still moving about without an escort I see.” He turned seeing Macrae sitting on a formation of rocks watching him.
            Hal looked around before looking at her again, “How did you know I was out riding today? I didn’t tell anyone and came out on my own.”
            “As I said, still roaming the countryside without the proper protection. The foolishness never seems to end.” A smile swept his face as he put the reign of his horse under a large heavy rock before walking over to her. Macrae stood and he walked over to her holding out his hands for hers. However she did not take them and just stared into his eyes.
            “Is something wrong?” He questioned his smile fading a bit.
            “Do you know what is being said about us? About me?” She said sternly. He cleared his throat and crossed his arms realizing now why she was upset.
            “It’s unfounded rumors. Most likely spread from the servants in the castle who are the only ones that know of our late night rendezvous.” He said, “They will fade in time and be forgotten.”
            “Has your father heard these rumors?” She demanded, “I have no doubt that he will have something to say about them.”
            “Macrae, I promise you, these are not credible accusations. No one puts any stock in these stories that are born out of spite and jealousy. Father is well aware of the nonsense that runs rampant at court.” Hal reassured her. “You are obviously not with child, there is nothing these rumors are founded on, and they are obviously lies.” He stated. There was a pause before Hal added, “Aren’t they?” It was unexpected and he couldn’t believe he spoke the question out loud.
            Macrae starred at him in disbelief, “NO!” She shouted at him in frustration that he too would think such things. “Why? Is this your intention with me? Is that why you insist that we lay together each time we meet?”
            “Of course not!” He exclaimed. They were both becoming upset now and it was no way to have a rational conversation. He took a breath and looked at her, “We lie together because we can never keep our hands off of each other for long when we are alone. Our desire to be together is stronger than anything, we need each other.” He stepped forward looking down into her eyes, “Children are sometimes the result of such activities, and I would not be angry nor hold it against you if in our passion we created a life.”
            Macrae shook her head starring at him in disbelief, “I would think that you would have more faith in me to know what I am doing!” She shouted, “How careless would I be to let something like that happen by chance!”
            Hal raised his hands in surrender wanting to calm her down and not wanting to upset her further. He knew he shouldn’t have asked and couldn’t believe that it had leapt from his mouth without thinking. “As I have stated, it is merely a story, court gossip.” He shook his head, “It will subside and soon be forgotten.” Macrae scoffed and looked away from him. The Prince reached out and took her hands in his, “I’m sorry.” He said sincerely, “That this has happened; I can see that it weighs heavy on your heart.”
            Macrae looked into his eyes and could see clearly how sincere he was in his words. “Why are you not as outraged?” She questioned. “Such a rumor tarnishes your name even further then it already has been these past years.”
            The Prince thought for several moments not having realized it didn’t bother him until this moment. It had caught his attention, and he had thought of it, but never had he been concerned or upset by it. It was strange and he looked at her, “I suppose . . . .” He paused looking into her eyes, “I suppose because . . . your bearing my child . . . isn’t an unpleasant thought to me.” He admitted.
            Her look darkened, “It should be.” She pulled her hands away from his. “You still cannot accept what I am, can you? You still believe me to be a woman like any other, despite your having witnessed me work first hand more than once.”
            “That isn’t true, I understand perfectly well what you believe and why.” Hal countered. “Macrae, you insist on denying yourself the feelings and privileges that are every human being’s right. Despite what you have convinced yourself, you are indeed a woman. A woman who deserves to be held, caressed, cherished, her body to be worshiped, to be loved.”
            “And who do you imagine is to give me these things?” Macrae demanded, “You? The Prince of Wales? Heir to the throne of England? The least eligible bachelor next to the Pope?” Hal quieted at her words. “You are no freer to give me these things then I am free to give them to you. I will not die a natural death, your highness. I will either be executed for crimes committed, or I will be murdered by one of my rivals. My entire life has been spent making ghosts and enemies.” She looked at him, “When you are King, it could even be by your order that I die.”
            “No.” Hal said immediately, “I will never condemn you or order your death.”
            “Why?” She said. “If I sin against you, if I sin against the state, you would have no choice.”
            “Would you?” He asked outright. “Would you betray me?” Macrae clinched her jaw and looked away, “If you were able to do so, I think you would have done it already instead of putting to rest a plot to destroy me and my family which you would have been paid handsomely for your participation in.” She stayed silent and he reached out and touching her chin turning her face towards his looking into her beautiful sapphire blue eyes. Then he placed a gentle tender kiss to her lips before gazing at her again. “Let me love you, Macrae.” He whispered. “Rumors and stories be damned. They don’t know us; they don’t know what is between us or what we have shared together and never will. It is none of their concern.” He stroked her face gently, “This is ours. It belongs to us and no one else.”
            Macrae closed her eyes listening to the sound of his voice. It all sounded so good, so tempting. It was true that when she was with him she felt happy inside. Happier then she could ever remember being. His kiss, his touch was the very definition of bliss. Hal smiled and leaned her forehead against his own. “I have no ties to anyone anymore.” She whispered opening her eyes and looking up at him. “I cannot help but think that is why you are so determined in this, my lord.”
            Hal smiled cupping her face in his hands, “My beautiful Lady Macrae,” He began, “You are so much more to me then you think. You see me as I am without even trying. No one else can claim to know me as you do, even a little.” He kissed her gently before looking into her eyes once more.
            “I kill people for money.” She said bluntly still not understanding how he could still want her knowing this, having seen it with his own eyes.
            “I kill people for principal, my birthright, my father’s throne, for God on occasion. How is that so different?” He questioned letting her know he wasn’t innocent of taking lives himself. Macrae looked at him a moment before half smiling. “I don’t care about that, I never have. Anymore then you have cared about my being the Prince of Wales.”
            “You’re the one who insists on forgetting his place on a regular basis.” She countered having had to remind him to many times to count.
            “What I am saying,” He began with a smile knowing how she loved to argue, “Is that none of that matters when we are together. Nothing matters, except each other. There is no sin in that.”
            Macrae sighed, finding herself powerless when he spoke to her from his heart. How could she do anything to resist him when he was so sincere? She was at his mercy. Hal smiled seeing her surrender and kissed her tenderly before pulling her into a tight embrace. She returned it feeling as though she was standing on the edge of a cliff and moving ever closer to falling.
            Hal released her and took her hands looking into her eyes, “I want to see you more.” He said honestly, “These long times between visitations are excruciating to me. Are they not the same for you?” She hesitated a moment before giving a nod. “Then you need to call on me more often. If you do not wish to enter the castle, then send for me as you have before. I will come to you.”
            “I will see you more often,” She began, “If you make an effort to be less careless with your life.” She stated sternly. Walking towards his horse she motioned towards his saddle, “You are not even properly armed to be outside of the castle much less by yourself.” The Prince smiled looking at her as she scolded him. “Even on your father’s lands you are still at risk.” She walked towards him again, “Will you never learn?”
            She did care for him quite deeply, but it tended to come out more as anger if one didn’t know her. The Prince walked over and reached out taking her hand pulling her against him. “Shhh.” He said when she started to speak again, “I think we are quite safe for the time being.” After a moment they both laughed realizing how silly the entire situation was. Then they drew closer and kissed anxiously finally just enjoying the moments they had to be with each other in private.
Sunset
            Prince Hal and Macrae sat on a tall hillside watching the sunset and the shadows it cast across the land. “You are not going to be able to return to the castle before nightfall.” Macrae said.
            “I’ve spent the night with you under the stars before. It will not harm anything to do so again.” Hal said with a smile. “If of course you wish to spend the night together.”
            Macrae gave him a sly look as he already knew it was a silly thing to say. “At least we are alone and no further rumors can be spread by this meeting away from the castle.” She pointed out.
            “Mmm, yes. I can only imagine that whoever began this rumor in the first place was somewhat jealous of your being in my favor.” Hal speculated. “Or perhaps it was simply wishful thinking.”
            She looked at him, “Wishful thinking?” She didn’t understand.
            “Well it would certainly put the seal on my reputation now wouldn’t it? If I were to breed illegitimate children out of proper wedlock, it would only be proof to some who have such theories about me.” Hal admitted. It was quiet for a moment before the Prince looked at her, “Would you be so terribly distraught if it were true?”
            “If what were true?” Macrae asked.
            The Prince paused before deciding just to come out with it, “If you did carry my child. Would it really be so upsetting?”
            “Why wouldn’t it be?”She asked thinking it a strange question.
            “You yourself told me that you don’t particularly believe in marriage and the church’s beliefs on such a subject. You don’t think that men and women can be faithful to each other from what you’ve said. So what of children? Would it matter so much that you were not married if you were to carry the child of your lover?” The Prince asked.
            Macrae didn’t really see the point of such speculations and shook her head, “Be thankful that this is never a question that will need an answer.”
            “Why not? Don’t you want children?” He said.
            She was silent a moment before she looked up deciding to tell him, “Because I cannot have them, my lord.” She said plainly. “Which makes this rumor even more infuriating and ludicrous, to accuse me of such a thing when it is not even possible.”
            Hal was stunned with this news; he’d not been expecting it. But now it was clear why the rumor upset her so. “I didn’t know, I’m sorry.” He said sincerely seeing in her eyes it was something that weighed on her. “How . . . how do you know? Are you certain?” He questioned.
            “I suffered an injury when I was young. It left me unable to bear children. Otherwise, I may have been arranged a match.” She looked at the prince, “It may not be evident to someone on the outside looking into my life, but my family did care for me. I don’t believe it was intended that I would have to make my way in the world on my own with no one. But life rarely turns out the way we think it will. Considering what I am sometimes required to do to make my living, I consider it a blessing to be barren. I cannot imagine there could be anything worse than finding I am carrying a dead enemy’s issue within me.” Her eyes turned to the prince once more, “Does this change your view of me?” She asked.
            The Prince thought for a moment before shaking his head, “No. But it does fill me with sadness.”
            “Why?” She asked.
            “That you are unable to have a family of your own. If you were to find a way to leave this life you lead behind and settle down somewhere . . .” He sighed and shook his head wishing that he had never brought it up now. It seemed terribly insensitive and callous. “These rumors will stop soon. I promise.”
            “Don’t feel burdened by this on my behalf, my lord.” Macrae said, “It is not news to me. I’ve known of it since I was very young, and I am grateful that it has no bearing on the life I lead. Besides,” She half smiled, “I am skilled with a weapon, with the art of deceit and seduction. The skills that it takes for motherhood elude me.”
            “I don’t think that’s true. The way you care for and protect others, would put you leagues ahead of some so called ‘mothers’.” Hal responded.
            “I do such things for a price.” Macrae countered.
            “Not always.” Hal said. “You’ve taken care of me on occasion without requiring payment.”
            Macrae seemed as though she didn’t want to talk about this anymore and stood from where they had been seated together going to work building a fire to chase the cold away before it was nightfall.
Pure Ecstasy
            The young lovers lay on a blanket next to the fire that had been built, writhing together just enjoying the feel of one another’s bodies entangled in each other’s intimate embrace. Hal thrust hard inside of Macrae a several more times before he released himself and clung tight together in their shared bliss.
            Hal studied her face for several moments before kissing her again, unable to resist tasting her crimson colored lips. She smiled kissing him back wrapping her arms around him as she held fast to his shoulders.
            After a few moments when they had regained some of their wits, Macrae grinned looking up into his eyes, “What is it?” He said wondering what had amused her so.
            “Will this satisfy your need for public intimacy, or would you prefer there be more danger of someone happening upon us in the throes of passion?” She asked slyly.
            He grinned as well and kissed her, “I cannot help it if you are so beyond beautiful I cannot resist your radiance. It’s difficult to think straight when you are near me.” He nuzzled her face with his, loving the feel of her warm breath on him. She chuckled reaching up and running her hands through his sweat soaked hair before holding him tight. “But since you asked,” He continued whispering into her ear, “I can think of a number of places outside the bedchamber I would adore the opportunity to make love to you.”
            Macrae couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh really? Such as?”
            “The corridor in the south wing that leads to the main hall, under the large willow tree in the garden, on the balcony that looks out over the East fields, the large straw stacks nearest the stables . . .” He seemed as though he had a never ending list and Macrae reached up covering his mouth with her hand to quiet him. Hal grinned and kissed her hand. “I could be with you anywhere, everywhere, and be content.”
            Macrae smiled a little, turning to lie on her side and Hal moved off of her so that she could. She reached for her canteen and took a drink passing it to him to do the same. Wrapping her cloak around her a bit she sat up on her knees and threw a bit more wood on the fire. Hal smiled and reached out resting his hand on her bare back, caressing her skin. When she finished tending the fire he reached out wrapping his arms around her and pulled her back to him on his lap. She giggled a little being snatched up in such a way before she looked back at him. He kissed her anxiously still holding her bare body tight to his own.
            “We cannot stay like this, my lord.” She said reaching for his shirt and handing it to him. “We must dress again. It is not like spending a night in your chambers, we are vulnerable enough without being unclothed in the open.”
            Hal gave her a playful pout as they had been having quite a bit of fun, but he knew she was right. “I suppose if we must.” He said taking his shirt. “But I am tempted to make a rule that you not be allowed to wear clothes in my presence.” He whispered playfully into her ear. Macrae grinned and kissed him before reaching for her own clothes to dress as well.
Entrapment
            “I realize that this may somewhat go against what my father wished, our riding together in the fields, but I have to say I’m rather enjoying it.” Hal admitted.
            “Of course you are. Your rather is against it.” Macrae answered.
            “Macrae, believe it or not, I do not enjoy being at odds with my father at all times. It’s true that he and I don’t see eye to eye on a great many things, but he is still my father and I love him very much.” Hal said. “But I’m not his ideal heir apparent.”
            The young woman pulled her horse to a stop and looked at him, “But you are, Hal. You simply choose not to show it.”
            He looked at her, “How do you mean?”
            “You’re clever. You know what it is you are meant to be doing, how it is to be executed, and yet you choose to do what you aren’t meant to. Spend your time with those who are not your equals, which do not belong in a Prince’s circle. Falstaff, Poins, all of the patrons of Mistress Quickly’s, . . . me.” She listed off.
            “I can understand his distaste at those I spend my time with at Eastcheap, however . . . I would think you were preferable company to any other I choose to keep.” Hal said.
            “As your father pointed out rather clearly, I am a tool to the crown. Nothing more. and I don’t think he was very thrilled to find you had been playing with his tools, my lord.” Macrae explained.
            A grin swept his face loving the way she spoke at times, the blunt clear way it came from her lips when so many at court lacked such an ability. “Tool or no, you are a beautiful woman.” Prince Hal said, “And I’m sorry but anyone who cannot see that beyond your vocation, is blind as a bat.”
            “Knowing one or the other usually gives men their feelings about me. Either they are filled with lust at the thought of me, or they’re filled with terror at the thought of my skill set.” Macrae said. “You are the only one who sees both and still anxiously seeks out my company.”
            “Any man who has a chance to have your company, who you have not been paid to send him from this mortal coil, and not seek it out at every available moment is a candle-minded impotent moron.” Hal said. “Be he peasant or King. You are unique and worth your weight in gold, indeed precious jewels, and more.”
            Macrae gave him a look, “Is there some reason you are showering me with such praises? What is it you want from me?” She said suspiciously.
            He rode his horse a bit closer towards her, “I want you to ride to town with me. To stay with me the night.” She pulled her horse to a stop just staring at him.
            “Are you ever to grow tired of me, my lord?” She asked seriously.
            Hal thought for a moment before looking at her, “No.” He replied in all honestly. Macrae rolled her eyes and heeled her horse continuing on, the prince was quick to follow. “Why are you still resisting us?”
            “Why are you pursuing me?” She demanded. “We can’t marry, I can’t bare you children, your father himself forbids our even being seen together. This is pointless.”
            Reaching out he caught the reign of her horse stopping her. “Do you love me Macrae?” He demanded outright.
            “What?” She said in disbelief, “Don’t be absurd.” She tried to pull her reign from his hand.
            “No, not this time.” He said pulling her horse closer to him. “Answer me, Macrae and answer me truthfully. Do you love me?” He asked.
            She narrowed her eyes at him before leaning closer, “No.” She said sternly before kicking his hand causing him to lose his grip on her horse and she dug her heels into her horse causing him to bolt. Hal watched after her as a grin swept his face and he dug heel into his own horse to catch up with her.
Wounded
            “Where is she?” Hal said hurrying inside the boarding house.
            “This way, my lord.” The house mistress gathered her skirts quickly leading him up the stairs. Once at the room at the end of the hall she opened door letting him in. When he entered, she quickly closed it behind him leaving him alone with Macrae.
                The prince could hardly breathe seeing her lying on the bed, dreadfully pale and bandaged in cloths soaked red with blood across her neck and shoulder. He went to her side sitting down next to her. “Macrae” he said attempting to wake her. Her wound was severe enough she was unable to tend to it herself before falling unconscious. Hal felt her face finding her cold and clammy to the touch. He took her hand in his, resting his other hand on her face, “Macrae, darling.” He called again not receiving even the smallest hint of a response.
                Hal moved the bandages finding them covering deep gashes that were still bleeding and needed stitching. “Good God.” He shook his head and stood pulling the covers off of her, “MISTRESS!” He yelled out. A moment later the woman appeared again.
                “Yes, my lord?” She said closing the door.
                “Get her cloak.” He instructed as he carefully lifted her from the bed, the woman immediately obeyed bringing it to him.
                “My lord, she is far to ill to be moved.” The woman warned.
                “Nonsense, I’m taking her to the palace, she needs proper care before she bleeds to death.” The woman wrapped the cloak around her and Hal pulled the large hood down over her face to hide her identity. Then he wrapped one arm around her and the other under her knees lifting her from the bed and holding her tight to him. “Her things are to be left undisturbed, I will send for them shortly.”
                The woman nodded and opened the door for the prince and he quickly carried the wounded woman out.
Recovery
                The Prince took Macrae directly to his own chambers and sent for his physicians. Hal stood watch over them as they attended her, finding she had another wound on her side, another deep gash she’d been losing blood from as well. He paced impatiently watching them closely waiting for any news of her condition.
                It wasn’t long before John appeared in Hal’s rooms to find out why his brother had sent for the physicians. When he came in he saw his brother standing anxiously at the foot of his bed, and saw the bloody body of Macrae lying still as the doctors did their work. “What happened?”
                “I don’t know.” Hal said never taking his eyes from her. “She was in a dreadful state when Mistress Quickly told me she had a friend who Macrae took a room with but she was in a bad way and didn’t know what to do, having been threatened by Macrae not to call or tell anyone.” He sighed in frustration, “She’s been unconscious since I found her. She hasn’t said a word or opened her eyes.”
                “Her wounds look severe.” John said.
                “They are, they finished stitching her side, and they’re still working on her neck and shoulder.” Prince said motioning towards the doctors. There was a quiet moment before John leaned close to his brother.
                “She’s not meant to be here without father’s permission . . .” He reminded him. Even though Hal had rescinded it, it was still best that he do everything possible to honor it so as not to enrage the King’s temper.
                “Well there wasn’t time to gain his blessing, she needed care.” Hal said instantly. “I’ll go to see him as soon as Macrae has been seen to.”
                John sighed knowing that he was tempting their father’s wrath but the woman did seem in dire need of help. “Sire,” The doctor said walking to him, “She has lost a lot of blood. All we can do is wait and hope that her body heals itself.”
                “What of the wounds?” He asked.
                “They are severe the one at her side is very deep. But she is strong, and healthy otherwise.” Hal gave a nod and the doctor returned to his work as they tied clean bandages on her wounds. The Prince had had a feeling that they were going to say ‘wait and see’ and he had been dreading it.
                “Don’t leave her, watch over her until I return.” Hal ordered before turning to John with a sigh, “I’ll away to father, take whatever heat there is for her presence in the castle without his knowledge. She truly is not at fault this time; she doesn’t even know I brought her here.”
Concerns
                The King walked with his son John somewhat troubled. Hal had come to him and explained about why Macrae was there, and being unconscious she was completely unaware that she had been brought to the castle. He took full responsibility and was willing to be punished however the King felt necessary. The king wasn’t going to punish him, but he did wish that his son would pay better attention to state matters, and appearances. He had been very good at keeping everything happening with Macrae discreet and the doctors that attended her were sworn to secrecy. There was at least this much to be thankful for.
                “I do not understand your brother, John.” He said after a moment as they walked together. “So many beautiful and eligible maidens at court. Graceful, well bred, perfectly upstanding young ladies who would give their right arm to spend an evening in the Prince of Wales company. Do a single of them turn his head? No. Instead he chooses this dangerous woman so skilled in murder, you can rarely ever tell that she was responsible for the death she causes.” He sighed in frustration, “He cannot hope to continue this torrid whirlwind affair once he ascends to the throne.”
                “The Prince knows of his duty and he will not disappoint you father.” John reassured him.
                “Perhaps. But he should be preparing to take the throne when I am gone, not out gallivanting all over the countryside.” He said in frustration. He looked at John, “What of her condition? Is she better?”
                “Her wounds are healing well, she’s regained some color to her skin, but has not woken yet. Hal stays at her bedside hoping that she will wake at any moment.” The King’s steps slowed as he looked at John. “Father, I believe the Prince has allowed himself to fall in love with her.” He admitted.
                The King sighed already having had that suspicion long before now, but this was only solidifying it. “Foolish boy.” He said shaking his head. “And her? Does she love him in return?”
                “I don’t know father. She is very hard to read. She is quiet and speaks of nothing when I am near her.” John admitted.
                The king smirked, “Of course she is, that is her job after all.” With another sigh the two continued on their way down the corridor.
Caretaker
                When her things had arrived, the Prince searched through her bags finding the small familiar vile that she had administered medicine to him from when he was badly injured. Instantly he gave it to her, hoping it would heal her quickly as it had healed him. Waiting was the hardest part, not knowing if she was going to get better or if he was watching her die.
                Having fallen asleep in the chair next to his bed, his eyes opened when he felt a soft hand on his shoulder. Realizing where he was and what was happening, he turned to see Macrae sitting up, resting her hand on his arm as she looked at him. A smile swept his face as he took her hand and kissed her fingers and knuckles and palm before holding it tightly reaching out and caressing her face.
                “I told you, you didn’t have to watch over me.” She said with a small laugh, knowing how hurt she had been.
                “And I told you, that you cannot stop me from doing so.” He said stroking her face a moment before running his hand through her hair which was much shorter now and he hoped she wouldn’t be to cross about it. When a fever had started, the doctors insisted that her hair be cut to help relieve it. At first Hal hesitated, but then he gave his consent if it would help make her well again. He kissed her hand before standing and getting a large cup of water bringing it to her so she could drink.
                Her mouth and lips were dry and she drank anxiously. She gave a nod when he took it from her lips that she’d had enough and he set it down on the bedside table so it would be in her reach should she want to drink again. “How long have I been here?” She asked.
                “5 days and 6 nights.” He reported. “You were in a desperate way when I found you.”
                “How did you find me? How did you know I was injured?”
                “The Mistress of the boarding house you were at is good friends with Mistress Quickly. When she found out it was you, she contacted me immediately as neither of the women knew what to do. Apparently you threatened the woman not to tell anyone of your presence. Foolish considering you needed care that you could not provide for yourself.” He said only half scolding just thankful that she hadn’t died.
                Macrae pulled the bandages lose enough so that she could see the mending that had been done. Impressive really, the stitches were very very small. “This is fine workmanship.” She stated.
                “I insisted upon it. They say that the smaller the stitch the less scaring there will be.” He answered moving her hand from the bandage and retightening it. “I gave you that potion from your things that you gave to me when I was ill. Is the pain any less because of it?”
                “I have no doubt.” She admitted before she lay back down feeling a bit weary.
                “Are you hungry?” He asked, “You must be. I’ll send for something immediately.” Hal started to stand but she caught his hand pulling him back to stop him.
                “I’m just very tired right now, Hal. I wish to sleep a little while longer.” She said softly.
                A smile swept his face as he leaned down and kissed her cheek resting his face to hers a moment thanking God that she had returned to him. Then he took her hand and kissed it ever so tenderly looking into her eyes, “You called me Hal.” He said overjoyed to hear her say it.
                She smiled a little, “It must be the fever.”
                “Your fever has broken; you called me by my name.” He said still grinning. Hal kissed her once more before giving a nod to let her sleep. There would be plenty of hot food waiting for her when she woke again. He remembered her saying when he was hurt that he would heal faster once he was able to eat. No doubt it would be the same for her.
Banquets
                “You must come; father has said that you have an invitation.” Hal said as he followed Macrae.
                “I have been here for far too long, I must go.” Macrae insisted.
                “The banquet will be on Thursday, you can wait until then.” Hal continued to try and convince her.
                Macrae sighed and looked at him, “I cannot attend with you. You’re father has forbidden our being seen together.”
                “You can still attend, and I’m required to mingle with guests. You would be a guest and there would be nothing wrong in our spending a little time together.”
                She gave him a sly look, “So you say, but you will not leave my side once I am there. Two times you have proven this to be true.”
                The prince reached out taking her hands in his as he sat down beside her. “Are you certain that there isn’t another reason for not wanting to attend.” She starred at him waiting to hear his theory on the subject. Reaching up he smoothed her hair back off her shoulder and neck that had been wounded. At once she reached up catching his wrist. It’s what he had thought. “Your pride keeps you from it, doesn’t it. Because you’ve always enjoyed yourself at the celebrations. I believe it is exactly what you need. Your wounds have healed very well.”
                “Not well enough.” She said looking away.
                Hal smiled, “Yes, it’s not completely healed yet but it looks very promising. They will fade with time as other scars have. These will too.”
                Macrae sighed as she looked at him, “I really should go, my lord . . .” She tried to explain however he reached up touching her lips with his fingers.
                “No. Hal. You called me Hal before and I insist that you continue to do so.” The Prince demanded.
                “That was not fair, I was ill.” She argued.
                “Tough. You said it and now I insist that you continue to say it.” He said kissing her playfully. She groaned slightly and he chuckled. “However, you are right. You have been cooped up here for quite a while and I want to take somewhere. For a ride out in the country.” He said holding her hands again. She started to shake her head but he reassured her before she could protest, “Father has given his consent for us to ride out today, you needn’t worry about offending him about this.”
                Macrae sighed thinking about it a moment, before giving a nod.
Manors
                The Prince and Macrae rode for some time from the castle having left early that morning. This time, per Macrae’s absolute insistence, they had an escort of four guards. She would defend and protect him to the death, but she was still injured and perhaps feeling a bit of doubt having been wounded so badly before killing her attackers.
                It was nearly 6pm when they came to a large beautiful manor house that was on open land surrounded with green grass and flowers. It was very well kept and relatively new. Macrae admired it thinking it was lovely, “Whose land is this?” She asked having passed this way before but the manor house was not here.
                Hal saw the shine in her eyes as she looked at it and smiled, “Yours.” Macrae looked at him when he said that, “Remember when you saved my life, and then you saved the lives of my brothers and my father? I was told I could grant you anything your heart desired but still you wouldn’t take from me. Well,” He motioned towards the manor, “I took the liberty of providing you with land, a home, and servants to care for your every need.” Her eyes were wide as she looked back towards the manor, “You are now, officially, Lady Macrae.”
                She was deathly silent, it was almost as though she wasn’t breathing, just starring at the beautiful large stone building with flowering ivy crawling up the walls, the windows and white marble frames that surrounded them. “I must be unconscious again, fallen to fever, I must not have . . . . woken yet.” She whispered.
                He grinned seeing her reaction, “It’s been ready for you for 6 months. I’ve been waiting feeling as though I would burst for your return when I received word from Mistress Quickly that you were in London. You have no idea how much it pained me to find you lying in pieces before I could ever even bring you to your home.” He explained.
                Macrae was still silent for another few moments before her eyes looked around again, trying to gain her bearings. “You had this place built for me?” She said a bit in shock.
                “Yes.” He said. “It’s been nearly two years since you saved us and my father . . . .” He paused a moment, “My father lives now because of you. My brothers live because of you. I live . . . .” Hal stopped and smiled, “I live because of you. Not just in body, but . . . in my heart. You deserve far more than this.” Her eyes turned back towards the house and the nearby small lake that reached into the tree line. “I can see your fear now, but let me assure you, you are safe here. This bit of land is deep within my own lands and it’s quite out of the way of any travelers or peasants. You have complete privacy here. Those who built this place were sent away for from France and Italy and have gone back since its completion.”
                “In two years?” She said in astonishment that all this could be done so short of time.
                “I spared no expense.” He said with a grin. “Come on!” He called to her digging his heels into his horse riding down the hill. She was still stunned but quickly followed him as he took her down to the front door.
New Home
                Hal showed her every part of her new home giving her the grand tour. There were 23 servants that cared for the house, there was a stable with a small number of 6 horses, but they were the finest to be had and she could acquire more or breed them as she wished. There was the lake for fishing, forest for hunting, plenty of game. There was a small garden below her master bedroom which had a large balcony so she could look out over her property, the horizon, and the moon and stars on warm summer nights.
                The rooms were furnished with every luxury Hal could find and commission to fill it. The longer he had to wait before he could give it to her and for it to be finished, the more he would add to what was already a very lavish estate however small it was.
                Having been informed of their coming, a feast was prepared even if it was just for Macrae and the Prince with the foods he knew she liked, and fine wine. Once they were served, the servants left them alone in privacy.
                “You have been very quiet today since we arrived.” The prince pointed out. “Are you alright? Perhaps you needed a bit more time to heal and rest first.” She still didn’t speak as she looked at the food set before her. Hal reached out and covered her hand with his, “Macrae, are you alright?” He asked genuinely concerned.
                Macrae took a breath as her eyes met his, and he saw something that he’d never seen and never thought he would see. There were tears in her eyes that she was holding back as she looked into his.
                Hal could see that she was truly touched by everything he had done, everything he had given her and she had no words to thank him. He smiled and took her hand kissing it gently before holding it tight in both of his with a nod letting her know that no words were needed.
To Be Continued . . . . .
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Dangerous Games