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The Company Thou Keepest	By : MarianTheBlackadder Category: G through L > Hollow Crown, The Views: 2261 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to "The Hollow Crown Series" of the BBC, Nor the rights to Henry IV nor Henry V of Shakespeare. I make no profit from this story other then the enjoyment of my writing it and others reading it. I recieve no money from this st

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            “Mistress Quickly.” Prince Hal said stopping the hostess of the house as she was going by, “I’ve not seen Rayne all night, have you sent her on some errand?”
            “Um, no my lord.” Quickly said.
            “Where is she then? She’s not in her room.” Prince Hal had been looking for her for a while now.
            She was quiet for a moment as if wishing there was some way to avoid this but it didn’t seem possible. Then she motioned for him to come with her into a private corner of the house. “I’ve sent her to the country to live with my cousin, my lord. She’ll not be returning.”
            Prince Hal’s eyes went wide. “What? Why?”
            “Her soul was tortured to stay in this house a night more and I couldn’t bear to see her suffer so.” She confessed.
            “Suffer? I don’t understand. Why would she suffer, she seemed well enough when I saw her here last.” Prince Hal said. Mistress Quickly’s eyes turned downwards a moment. There was more to this story then was being told. He took her by the arm and moved her back to the storage room and closed the door before turning back towards her again. “Tell me.” He demanded.
            The Mistress gathered her thoughts. “My Lord, Rayne was only a chamber maid, never was she a bar wench. Her chores were strictly limited to washing bed linens and tidying up.” She explained. “She was family, and when her mother died she was sent to live with me. She was saving herself for marriage until we found her a fitting husband who could care for her.”
            “What?” He said astonished, “Why did she never say?”
            “She knows her place, my lord. Far be it for her to refuse the Prince of Wales, the heir to the throne.” Suddenly a great deal of things made sense to him. The way she always seemed nervous whenever he arrived. The shock and fear in her eyes the first night he whisked her away to a private room. The tears in her eyes when he took her, and how she couldn’t bear to look at him during the entire encounter. She was a virgin, and yet no complaint came. Mistress Quickly reached into her pocket and took out a small pouch giving it to the Prince. “She left this for you.”
            “What is this?” The Prince opened the pouch and poured coins into his hand. Every single coin that he’d ever given her for her ‘services’. She hadn’t spent or kept one. This was all so much to take in, such a shock it seemed hardly conceivable that she had gone along with everything that had happened in the past few months.
            “You were the only man she was ever with, My Lord. It all became too much for her, when you sought out her company each time you called to this house.” Quickly explained.
            “Why was nothing said to me of this before now?” He demanded. “If she couldn’t tell me, why couldn’t you. She was your family, you had the right.”
            “You are our future King my lord. All of us know we are to serve you. If you wished her, then she you would have. She gave herself freely.” Quickly responded.
            The Prince closed his eyes and shook his head, “Then why didn’t you send her away before now? Why not after the first night we spent together?”
            Now she became silent as the grave again and the Prince just starred at her letting her know that he was done with all this deception and wanted the full truth whatever it was. “She threw herself over the balcony and down the stairs. Amazingly she was uninjured, but also did she not accomplish her goal.”
            “What was that?” He said growing impatient.
            She looked at him not knowing what his reaction was going to be, “To miscarry. Or to kill herself, or perhaps both.”
            “She’s with child?” He said his eyes wide. A moment passed before he starred at her, “I could forgive perhaps your silence on the matter, but this? I should have been informed immediately. If what you say is true and I have been her only lover, then it’s my child that she carries within her.”
            “No one knows of it my lord, no one besides me and her and now you. She is still young and beautiful and the indiscretion can be hidden so that it might not hinder her chances of finding a husband.” She explained quickly.
            “How can she be accused of such a thing when the indiscretion was mine? How could either of you imagine that I would not see she and the child were provided for?” He asked. “I assure you Mistress Quickly, I do care for Rayne. I have cared for her for some time and I would not be such a cad as to let her live in squallier and disgrace.” He scolded.
            “Because, My Lord. I believe she cares for you as well, and she was afraid that the disgrace would fall onto you and did not want to cause you such grief when your father already disapproves of the company you keep. I should have sent her away long ago, but unfortunately it took some time to arrange for her to go.” She explained.
            “How long ago?” He asked. “When did she leave and in which direction?”
            “This afternoon my lord, to the north.” He turned with every intention of catching up to her on the road, but Mistress Quickly stopped him. “Please my lord, let her go. Let her make a clean break of it. You are a prince and she is nothing more than a peasant. It will only cause her heart more sorrow and grief to see you again.”
            Prince Hal jerked his arm away, “I will see her again before she disappears into the countryside, as I should have been allowed to do before she left this house.” With that he turned and quickly exited the tavern to his horse.
Roadside Stops
            Rayne was lying in her room of the tavern they had stopped at for the night. She was on her side starring at the wall. It seemed as though the change in her location did not hinder the distraught and mangled emotions inside of her and the quiet stillness of being alone only let her mind wonder into dreadful and dark places. What a horrid turn of events. She was only 17, unmarried, and now carrying the bastard child of the future king. That never turned out well for any peasant that was not of royal blood nor their child.
            Finally after a long time and tears falling her eyes closed and she drifted off into sleep. However she sprang up from where she lay when the door of her room burst open. She shot to her feet and took the dagger from under her pillow holding it out in front of her. When she saw who it was, she lowered the dagger and a look of fear and panic crossed her eyes.
            Prince Hal stood at the door starring at her with a displeased look on his face and closed the door pulling the lock on it. “My Lord.” She said quickly putting her dagger aside and lowering her head in obedience. He starred a moment longer before he walked closer to her.
            “Never did I think you capable of such treachery.” He said sternly. Rayne’s eyes went wide when he said such things. “You were just going to disappear without so much as a by your leave?” Rayne stayed silent as her eyes turned downcast, “ANSWER!” He demanded.
            “It was never my intention to deceive you my Lord.” She said softly.
            “Oh but you did. Not just about this,” He motioned towards her abdomen, “But about everything from beginning to end. You knew what I thought you were, yet you said nothing. Making me a monster and you an unwed mother.” Rayne’s eyes were still downcast and she winced at his words, they were like a slap in the face. “You should have told me, the same as your Aunt. Both of you should not have kept this from me.”
            Rayne was quiet but then she found the courage to be bold. “I hold no resentment my lord.” She whispered almost to quiet for him to hear. “I, like all born under the crown, owe my allegiance and life to you. Whatever you may desire of me.”
            Now Prince Hal was becoming a bit frustrated. He walked over and seized her by the arms, “Look at me.” He demanded. She swallowed the lump in her throat and looked up at him, “I never wished to violate an innocent young woman, much less one whose career was not to service men of any rank. You should have told me, Rayne you have no idea how upset this makes me.”
            “I gave myself to you freely, My Lord. There was no violation.” She said with tears in her eyes fearing his temper.
            “Wasn’t there? Only now does it occur to me why you walked with a limp the following night the first time we lie together, why you’re feared my coming to the tavern each day, why you allowed me to do . . . .” He could hardly repeat it. “I took your virginity and wasn’t even aware of the deed. I knew something was wrong, but I imagined that your intimidation stemmed from my birthright. For months now have you kept my company each time I came to the house, and I was completely unaware, as were others. Such secrets have only hurt you, and not helped anyone.”
            “But that is why I am leaving My Lord; I promise you that you shall never hear of me again.” She said quickly.
            He shook his head, “Why is it you believe that’s what I want? Why do you imagine that my first reaction to such news would be banishment? Or that I would want you sent away even to save face? Have you ever stopped to imagine that I wanted you to stay? That I expect and desire to see your face each night I attend Mistress Quickly’s, to keep your company?”
            “My Lord,” She began unable to turn her eyes away from him now. “I cannot find a husband if it’s known what I have done. My Aunt has everything arranged so that I may still find respectable marriage.”
            The Prince was beyond frustrated and released her, “Your mind has been poisoned to think that this is the only way. I could give you a monthly allowance to provide for you and the child. A far better life than any other man could provide.”
            “But then you would still have the tie of an illegitimate child and others would know if you provided for us in such a way.” She said in a shaky voice.
            He looked at her for a moment, “Dare I ask what is to become of the child once it is born if you are to deny his existence?”
            “He would be raised by my cousin, until circumstance would allow for him to come and live with me.” She said softly.
            “Yet still you would deny him of being your child, or mine.” He said sternly.
            Rayne sighed and closed her eyes a moment, “What else would you have me do?” She asked looking up at him again. “My only other option would be to continue down the path I’ve already begun on.” The Prince raised his hand but stopped before he struck her and sighed dropping it back to his side.
            “I do not like or approve of any of this Rayne.” He said seriously. “I do not want you to leave. I am not ready to let you go.”
            “You can command me to return to my Aunt’s tavern, you are the Prince of Wales.” She said softly, “But you would do so with the knowledge that I could not remain hidden for long, your father would not approve, and both I and the child would be outcast together.”
            Prince Hal just starred at her for a moment before he spoke, “I do order it.” He said after considering it. “I’ll have both of you where I can see you, and providing for you will be easier if you truly wish to keep the child’s parentage a secret.”
            Rayne looked away feeling as though she was once again trapped as she had been before when she became impregnated to begin with. The Prince could see she was distraught and touched her chin turning her face to look at him. She was lovely and he truly did care for her. It was a fact that there could never be anything more between him. When he married it would be for political gain, of another of royal blood. She simply was not born to the right class. He stroked her face gently with his fingertips before he leaned down and kissed her. Rayne closed her eyes returning the kiss.
            As the kiss broke he looked into her eyes, “Do you love me Rayne?” He asked.
            “Of course, My Lord.” She whispered.
            He shook his head, “No. If I were not a prince, and you were not a peasant. You as nothing but a woman, and I as nothing but a man . . . do you love me?” He asked. Rayne’s eyes turned away a moment. “Answer.” He said in a gentle tone.
            Rayne closed her eyes tight knowing she could not lie to him, “Yes.” She said in a ghost like whisper. Now it was clear, why she ran, why she kept these secrets, why she did not keep the money he had given her, why she was determined to exile herself from the city and him. She was in love with him. Tears escaped her eyes and slid down her cheeks. The Prince cupped her face in his hands and kissed away her tears before kissing her once again. Not that he would ever be able to admit it, but he cared for her as well. Perhaps even loved her, but they could never be. His father would disinherit him all together.
            “It’s too late to start back tonight; I suppose we’ll be staying here until morning.” The Prince said looking about the room. It was a small bed but they would make do. It wasn’t as though they hadn’t shared a bed before. “To bed then.”
            Rayne nodded before she moved over picking up the lit candle and bringing it back to the table at the bedside. Now Hal was seeing how stiffly she was walking and sat down watching her as she moved. It was apparent that she was trying to hide the pain she was in.
            “Show me.” The Prince said. “Show me what it is you’re trying to hide from me.”
            Rayne stopped as her eyes turned away. “I cannot.” She said ashamed that she couldn’t do as he had commanded her. “My Lord, I would do anything you asked of me, demanded of me, but I cannot force myself to this.”
            Hal looked at her another moment before standing and walking over to her. He turned her facing away from him and unlaced her gown. Something else that should have given him pause before now was that she wore undergarments. None of the bar wenches wore such things. They wasted time having to take them off and put them on again all night long. Rayne always wore them. Once her gown fell away, he unlaced her undergarment and slid it down her body. Hal’s jaw clinched as he saw the large deep black bruising that covered most of her side to her back. “Rayne, what is this? Is this from where you fell down the stairs?” He demanded to know.
            “No.” She said softly not able to look up still very much ashamed.
            “Who did this then?”
            “It was a misunderstanding.” Rayne said softly. Hal inspected the mark further and then pressed his fingertips against the bruise and Rayne’s knees buckled at the pain. She would have fallen but the Prince reached out quickly catching her.
            “That was foolish of me.” He said apologetically not wanting to cause her pain. “Your eyes are red with tears, sweet Rayne.” The prince touched her chin and caressed her face, looking into her eyes. “To bed my lovely. We have much to discuss and a long ride back to London tomorrow. You need rest.”
            “As you wish my Lord.” She said her eyes still turned downcast.
            The Prince loved the color of her eyes. “Look at me.” He demanded, “Never turn your eyes from me. I want to see your bright and beautiful green emeralds always.” She hesitated a moment before looking up at him. He smiled stroking her cheek, “Much better.” A moment passed before he leaned down unable to resist taking a kiss from her red luscious lips. Then another, then once again.
            Soon the passion he so often experienced when with Rayne grew from a spark into a roaring flame. It was late, and perhaps they both needed rest but this couldn’t wait. He had to have her now. As the kisses continued he walked her back until they fell backward down onto the hard narrow bed.
            “Did I hurt you?” He breathed against her lips looking down at her. She shook her head and he grinned consuming her lips hungrily. He rubbed his body against hers in anxious anticipation of what was to come. Prince Hal paused his affections and sat up straddling Rayne’s thighs. He slipped off his leather jacket then his shirt soon joined it on the floor. At once he lay back over her wrapping his arms around her devouring her lips once more, loving the feel of their bare bodies entwined together, the feel of her breasts against his chest with each labored breath. There wasn’t much room on the narrow bed to maneuver, but not much was needed.
            She wrapped her thigh around his hip and he brushed himself against her secret entrance to make certain she was ready. He smiled finding that she was more than ready to receive him. He stopped their kissing a moment to look down into her eyes as he pushed deep inside her. She gasped and closed her eyes as her body tensed but then she forced herself to relax and he pushed deeper and deeper until he filled her completely. Slowly he began to work deep inside of her, watching the reactions and expressions on her face as his movements caused sensations that sent quivers of pleasure through her body. He moved a bit faster with deep deliberate thrusts over and over again until he felt her body begin to tense. He began thrusting a bit harder over and over again until he felt her body quiver and shake and then relax. Shuttering in aftershocks of the pleasure he’d given her. He grinned and kissed her deeply as he continued his movements inside of her, hard and fast until finally he joined her in a powerful climax of his own.
            They were both breathing deeply continuing to lavish feverish kisses on each other, as their bodies shuttered and quivered with the pleasure they’d shared. When their bodies slowly calmed, he looked down into her eyes again and smiled. “My Lord?” She asked not certain of the look in his eyes.
            “It occurs to me that being the only man you’ve been with; all that you know of making love is that which I have showed you. Taught you.” He said with a grin.
            “Are you angry with me that I am not as skilled as Doll?” She asked softly.
            “Lord no. I’m fond of the fact I am the only man who has had you. I think I would be terribly jealous if it were otherwise.” He said. “Now with this new information that I have received from your aunt and from you this day, I feel there are further depths we can explore together.”
            “Depths?” She asked not certain what he meant.
            “Oh, there is a vast array of things that we have not done that could be done. I won’t force you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable, I promise you.” He vowed. “But I would like to see if we could further our pleasure by trying something different.” She didn’t know what he meant but she also felt it wasn’t her place to question. He kissed her again sliding his hands into her hair beneath her head. “I adore the glow to your eyes and your skin after we make love. So bright, so content.” Hal placed another kiss to her lips, deep and slow savoring her sweet taste. As the kiss parted their eyes met again and he smiled. Something about being with her cheered him. Always did he feel better no matter what the circumstance before their meeting. A fight with his father, more rumblings and tarnishes of his reputations, but when he saw Rayne, all of that just melted away and didn’t seem to matter. Always did she put him in better spirits, and brightened his day. Perhaps that’s why he had grown so fond of her, and the thought of losing her distressed him so.
            He withdrew from her and rolled off to the side. They both maneuvered into a more comfortable position that could be slept in. Hal wrapped his arm around her and rested her head to his chest as he stroked her shoulder with his fingertips. Reaching down he pulled the blanket up over them to keep them warm before wrapping his other arm around her as well and kissing her again as they settled in, entwined in one another’s embrace.
Long Ride Back
            Hal and Rayne rode side by side on their horses. Her escort was paid for his trouble and then sent away as now it would be the prince himself who would be taking her back to Eastcheap. “My aunt paid him to take me to the countryside. You didn’t have to pay him again.” Rayne said softly.
            “I think the point you should concern yourself with is that he was so easily turned from his task of escorting and protecting you for a few coins.” The Prince replied.
            “I’m fairly certain that your being the prince of Wales was part of it.” Rayne said still feeling odd about his taking her back to London and was somewhat vulnerable.
            “What was the misunderstanding about?” He questioned after a moment. Rayne looked at him a little confused. “The bruising on your back, what led to it?”
            She was silent for a long moment before answering, “The mistress of the house you found me at, mistook me for one of her husbands young lovers. My escort was tending to our horses, she didn’t see I wasn’t there alone. She grabbed me by my hair and beat me with a switch until my escort came in. He and her husband pulled her off me." Rayne was obviously still quite upset and embarrassed about it.
            “If you had told me of this before we left, she may have received a good thrashing of her own.” The prince grumbled.
            “The bruises you saw weren’t only from that. As you said, I did fall down the stars earlier in the week.”
            “Yes.” Prince Hal pulled his horse to a stop looking at her. “Mistress Quickly told me of your foolishness.” She could have killed herself with that stunt, how could she be so careless with her life. Rayne pulled her horse to a stop as well and looked at him. “It’s hard to decide what I’m more cross with you for. Running away or attempting to end your life or at the very least the life inside you.”
            “I wasn’t trying to die. I was trying . . . I was trying to . . .” She didn’t even know how she was to respond.
            “There will be no more of this nonsense Rayne. If it crosses your mind again for even a moment, it will be my hand delivering the thrashing.”
            “Yes my lord.” She said obediently not daring to argue with him. He gave a nod before they started on their way once again.
            There were black clouds forming in the distance, and thunder shook the earth. “We may need to take shelter before long.” He said, “With such a storm reaching London before it comes will not be possible.”
            “Perhaps if we rode faster your highness?” She questioned not understanding why they’d been traveling at such a slow pace.
            “We are heading in the direction of the storm itself Rayne, all that will do will hasten us into it.” Prince Hal pointed out. “I believe I saw a farmhouse a few miles down this road. We’ll arrange lodgings for the night.”
Shelter
            When they arrived they found the house empty. The family must have moved on, or was evicted for some reason. “This will do.” He said pushing on the door which was a bit stiff before stepping back and taking Rayne inside.
            She looked around finding the small simple hut actually quite accommodating, “I’ll gather firewood.” She said without missing at beat and moved to the door at the opposite of the room opening it and disappearing. He smiled seeing her immediately go to work. She wasn’t spoiled or bitter by any means. It would be fun to dote on her once they returned to London.
            He left back out the other door to see what there was to be hunted for supper.
            A while later, a fire roared warming the small house, as Rayne was hard at work fixing their supper. The young prince took over gathering fire wood, and they had more than they would ever need. The storm had begun and as predicted it was strong and incredibly harsh. While she cooked, he went around securing the shutters, using dirt and rocks to fill the holes and keep the chill at bay.
            “Supper is ready.” She said pulling the pot from the fire, using her skirts so as not to burn her hands. She carried it over to the table, and set it down. “It’s odd isn’t it?” She asked, “To leave so many things behind?” She looked at the mismatched plates and simple flatware she’d found.
            “Perhaps the inhabitants intended to return but tragedy befell them.” He said having wondered a bit himself. He moved to the chair and sat down as she served him a large portion of rabbit stew.
            “I found a garden outback near the creek. It was terribly grown over, it didn’t seem to have been tended in very long time. But there were many vegetables ripe and ready.” She said serving herself then taking her plate and moving to sit down on the floor away from him.
            “Fortune seems to favor us this day in every light.” He knew why she moved away and didn’t sit at the table. They weren’t of the same class and he was heir to the throne of England. “Come sit with me.” He said. She looked at him a look of confusion on her face. Rather then argue, he stood retrieving the wooden stool from the corner, and then taking her arm walking her back to the table and sitting her down. She looked incredibly nervous as he took his own seat and picked up his spoon taking a bite. He froze a moment tasting it. “My God.” He said pleasantly surprised, “This is absolutely delicious.” He took another bite savoring the flavors. “Where did you learn to cook? I’ve never had something so good at Mistress Quickly’s.”
            “My mother.” She said softly, “She was very prized by the Lord who employed her. When she died, I was sent to Mistress Quickly.” She explained. “My mother was the youngest of four sisters.”
             The prince noticed she wasn’t eating, she must have been famished. They’d been traveling since daybreak. “Eat Rayne.” He commanded. “I’m impressed with your manner and strict adherence to protocol, but we are alone and you have my permission to ignore it for this evening.” He said seriously. “I insist you take your supper with me.” Hal knew the whole situation made her uncomfortable, she was caught fleeing and lying to him. He was still quite cross with her for those things.
             Rayne gave a small nod before picking up her spoon. As suspected she was starving, and nearly inhaled the food. Luckily they had more than enough for twice as many people. He’d hunted and skinned two rabbits and she’d gathered onions, carrots, and potatoes. It was a feast to be sure. “We will return home tomorrow?” She asked.
             “More then likely, if the storm passes. If it turns worse we may have to stay a bit longer.” He knew he was going to catch hell for leaving London alone and not telling anyone. Usually it wouldn’t have mattered but he would be away now for two nights. He was going to be missed.
            “Will the horses be alright?” Rayne asked.
            “The leanto should give them sufficient shelter from the storm, and there was plenty of sweet grass to state them.” He couldn’t help but smile a little at her innocence. They ate their fill and then Rayne went to work cleaning up after them.
            The Prince built the fire up good and high, as Rayne made a pallet for them near the fire with the horse blankets, and their cloaks. She’d brought in some grass and straw before the rain began while the stew had been cooking to make it more comfortable then just the hard floor.
            “You are far more domestic then I realized.” Hal said adding a little more wood. “You’ve made this small hovel cozy and livable in one afternoon.”
            “I’m sorry I could not do more my Lord, our resources have been so limited.” She said embarrassed she couldn’t do much better for the future King of England.
            “Rayne.” He said putting down the stick he’d been using to move the wood and stoke the fire. He stood and walked over taking her hand and pulling her to her feet. “You’ve fed me an exceptional and fine meal, you’ve cleaned and prepared this small place quickly and expertly. You’ve done everything to make me comfortable.” He pulled her closer, “Thank you for all that you have done for me.” Needless to say she was confused to hear the prince thank her. Royalty didn’t thank anyone, especially not a lowly peasant. “Now there only needs one more thing to end such a pleasant day.” He drew her closer still pressing their bodies together as his hands wrapped around her waist. “Lay with me this night, so that I may embrace you, feel your soft warm body against mine.”
            She thought it even more odd that he was asking, he always just took what he wanted before. “Of course, my Lord.” She said obediently bowing her head. Hal smiled touching her chin raising her face to look at him.
            “Tonight. I am no prince. Tonight we are a man and a woman seeking refuge from the cold.” His eyes were so beautiful, so full of compassion and feeling. He wasn’t like other nobles. Her mother’s master wasn’t kind to those in his service and was incredibly strict in all protocols.
            Hal drew her to him, his hands on her waist just gazing deep into her eyes. Such a beautiful young maiden, and she was his, and his alone. Leaning down he took a deep kiss from her lips. His hands moving over her back holding her tighter against him. Rayne closed her eyes returning his affections. His hand moved up her back and slid into her hair loving the soft curls around his fingers. She was like candy. Just to touch her and taste her was a pleasure.
            With a smooth movement he wrapped his arms around her again and lay them down on the soft comfortable bed she’d prepared for them. At once the kisses continued, and his hand move down her body pulling up her skirts, removing her undergarments baring her to him. As he wrapped her thigh around his waist. Hal released himself from his trousers, almost desperate to be within her warmth. With one easy stroke he entered into her warm wet womanhood. The feel sent a shutter of pure pleasure down his spine as he rested a moment enjoying the sensation. They devoured each others mouths, their tounges dancing together tasking one another in excitement and hunger. The young prince began to move deep inside her with long deliberate strokes.
            Hal was guilty sometimes of rushing this, a tavern full of people, there was scarcely any privacy to be had. Right now? Now they were alone, completely alone, and he could take his time and do everything he wanted right. Finally now he had all the facts and knew the situation. He should have always known. Rayne was his favorite, and she wasn’t a whore. That fact alone brought a smile to his face, but the fact that he had treated her as one stole it away again.
            Their passion was beyond enflamed now as their hands roamed over each other’s bodies, clutching in eager need. His hips moved against her thighs anxiously, but with tender purpose. Rayne arched and bowed her back beneath him, biting her lip before they found each others mouths once more. They were lost in ecstasy, their bodies entwined together with such lust and desire, writhing together.
            However the sound of voices outside and then a loud beating came to the door.
            Their movements stopped as they realized they were no longer alone. When the banging came to the door yet again, Prince Hal at once went for his sword. “Put on your cloak.” He said quietly giving her his dagger. She did as he told her holding the dagger at the ready beneath her cloak should whoever stand on the opposite side of the door not be friendly.
            Standing he went to the door holding his sword before him. “What is your business here?” The Prince demanded in a loud voice.
            “I am a merchant sir. Traveling to London with my wares! We seek shelter from the storm!” The voice called back in response. “Please sir, may we share your roof this dreadful night?”
            The road was dangerous, bandits and thieves roamed in droves outside the city. Hal looked over towards Rayne, not certain if he wanted to take the risk. However when he looked at her she nodded. She would never turn anyone out in the cold. Hal sighed and looked back towards the door.
            “Disarm yourself. You’ll not cross this threshold with so much as a pin knife on your person.” He demanded.
            “Of course sir.” A moment passed before Hal pulled the bolt on the door and stepped back, holding his sword in his hand.
            The man and two escorts entered shaking off the cold, and rain. “Bless you sir, thank you. The weather tonight is an absolute nightmare.” Just then he noticed Hal wasn’t alone. “Oh, good evening Miss. It’s a lovely home you have.”
            “We don’t live here. We are taking refuge from the storm as you are.” Hal said putting himself between Rayne and their ‘guests’.
            “Oh, then fortune smiles on us this night. My name is Gregory Landis. Recently returned from abroad. These are my servants who accompany me.” He said introducing them. “Have you names yourselves?”
            It was apparent that none of them recognized the Prince of Wales and it was how he preferred it for now. “I am called Hal.” Was all the prince said not wishing to be known. “My companion is called Rayne.” Rayne stood and curtseyed.
            “What a lovely name for a lovely creature.” He complemented. “In appreciation for your generosity, you are welcome to share what I have. Perhaps some wine to ward off the cold outside?” The prince looked at him still studying him a moment longer before sheathing is sword, giving a nod. The man told one of his servants to retrieve items from their packs and both men left the house to do so.
            Prince Hal walked over to Rayne keeping his voice low. “I’m not recognized by face, they do not know me. I do not wish to be known this might. As I said before, I am no more than a man, and you my woman.” Rayne nodded understanding.
Early Mornings
            Rayne lay asleep wrapped in her cloak and Hal had pulled his over her as well to keep her warm. Rather then sleep, he tended the fire to keep it roaring and keep an eye on their fellow guests. The merchant and the servant slept, but the other was awake as well.
            “Sir?” He said offering the young prince a glass of wine. Hal took it and gave a nod.
            “You’re a bit young to be endentured to such a man, are you not?”
            “He promised my mother when she died to see I had work. Somewhere to go.” He explained.. “His eyes turned towards Rayne. “is she your servant?” He asked curiously.
            “In a way. She belongs to me.” Hal said taking another drink of wine. “She is no concern of yours so turn your mind to other matters. “The prince was silent hearing that the rain could no longer be heard. “The rain has stopped. We shall be on our way at daybreak.”
Home Again
            The young Prince has been sent for by his father which was never glad tidings. As soon as he entered the room the King dismissed all others completely, leaving them alone in the chamber. Making it clear that the situation was more dire then he first thought.
            There was a long uncomfortable silent moment as the King starred at the prince gathering his thoughts. “I have expected news of this sort to come to me long before now. The company you keep, your frivolous ways you practice.”
            “My Lord?” Hal asked.
            “Your irresponsible nature has brought disgrace to your name far before now, why did I imagine you could keep your indiscretions discrete?” Now it was becoming clear why he’d been summoned. “It seems I’m to have the bastard grandchild of a peasant girl before the year is out. Word has already spread through the court like wild fire.”
            “Father, it was not made public. I was very discreet in my handling of the matter. I’ve given her lodgings in the city and an allowance. That’s all.” He promised.
            “Was it really so difficult for you to find a lover in a noble bloodline? A peasent girl! The scandal will never be forgotten. And she, who should have never known anything beyond a whores existence, you have given her status she no doubt sought from the beginning.” He continued to rant.
            “No. Father it was not her fault. When she discovered she was with child she fled for the county. I stopped her and brought her back here.” He said in her defense. “Never was there a thought in her mind to change her station in life or blackmail.”
            “You should have let her leave! Then perhaps the matter could have remained an unfounded rumor at most rather than a proven fact!” He roared.
            The prince was silent a moment, “I could not.” He said finally. “I could . . I could not let her go.”
            The king already had a feeling why this had gone so far and stared into his sons eyes. Then he smacked him so hard across the face, the prince thought his eye would pop from its socket. “Fie boy, to allow yourself to fall for a creature of such low birth.” He hissed, “She isn’t fit to even be your mistress.”
            “But she is.” Hal said quickly. “She’s not like anyone I’ve ever known of any station. She is worthy of far more. A better existence.” He sighed in frustration, “I know we can never marry, we’ve accepted that, but she does carry my child father. I cannot simply abandon her when she has nothing.”
            The king looked at his son a moment, “You want to see that she and the child are cared for? Then arrange her a match so that they will want for naught.” Hal’s eyes went wide hearing his fathers words. “You will have to find someone willing to take a peasant as a bride, one who already carries your bastard within her.”
            Hal was speechless and a little horrified. Marry her off to someone else? Who would touch her, have her, as he did? How could he do that? “To whom?” Hal asked, “To whom would you have me give her too?”
            “I don’t care, just find someone to take the wench and maybe some redemption can be found in this farce.” The king waved his son away having quite enough of this ridiculous conversation. Hal was stunned and horrified but bowed to his father and left the room. The thought of Rayne being married to another man infuriated him before when he was first told of the intention. It no less enraged him hearing it today. But it seemed there was no chance now that his father had commanded it.
Visitation
            Rayne stood still on a box as three of the royal tailors took measurements and fitted dresses to her form. It was uncomfortable and incredibly overwhelming. Then suddenly they quickly disappeared clearing the room and leaving her alone without a word. It was strange and she stepped down from the box they’d had her standing on and walked to the mirror. She hardly recognized herself. She was clean from head to toe, her hair was done beautifuly with such skill, and the dress she was in was so form fitting, beautiful and elegant. She’d never seen such finery much less ever hoped to touch it. It had all happened so fast and her confusion was no less then before when Hal brought her back to London.
            He had disappeared shortly after bringing her into this home and she hadn’t seen him since. There were servants to care for the house and her every need, to bathe her every morning, and seamstresses and tailors seemed to be at her person night and day making dress after dress for her.
            “You look absolutely stunning.” She turned hearing his voice and a smile swept her face seeing Hal standing at the door.
            “You’re highness.” She said with an obedient curtsey and bow. He half laughed seeing her extreme show of obedience. Walking over he took her hands and she stood her eyes firmly downcast.
            “What did I say about when we were alone together? I commanded it, did I not?” She took a breath and nervously looked up at him. A smile swept his face to see her beautiful eyes shining. “There, much better.” He said kissing her softly.
            She was silent a moment before speaking in a soft tone, “My lord . . .why . . . what I mean is, why all of this? Fine clothes, a house with a staff to care for me, more food then I knew existed . . . I’ve not seen you since you brought me back to London and that was a fortnight ago.” It was all so very confusing to her.
            “There was much to be done, I have my duties I must see to of course among other things.” He stopped not able to continue this idol conversation, his father’s words still freshly on his mind. “Come.” He walked her to the nearby couch and sat her down before sitting beside her. He sighed again and slapped his hands against his knees still feeling frustrated by the whole affair. “Rayne,” He began, "Fortune smiles upon you once again. By Thursday next, you are to have suitors. Who will come to seek your hand in marriage.”
            Rayne just stared at him with a blank look in her eyes and dumbstruck silence. Shock had set in and she couldn’t speak or react. Another long moment passed before she found her voice again, “Suitors?” She questioned.
            “Yes. We will find you a good match and you’ll never be hungry or want for anything again.” He explained trying to keep his smile bright and his enthusiasm genuine. But he was angry and struggling inside at the situation. Of course he didn’t want another man to touch her, to have her, but they were left with little choice.
            Once again the young woman fell silent and her eyes towered towards the floor. Hal took her hand in his holding it tight.
            “It is what you wanted.” He said forcing another smile. “A respectable marriage. No shame, no more working in taverns, you and the baby will never want for anything ever again.” He found himself repeating more to himself then to her.
            There was another moment of silence, “Whatever is your will with me, I am yours to do with as you wish.” She said softly trying not to sound as heartbroken as she felt. Hal’s smile faded seeing her accept this dreadful turn of events with unfettered loyalty and obedience.
            “No.” He said suddenly unable to keep up pretenses any longer. Rayne looked up at him. He released her hand trying to calm his temper. “It is not my will that takes you from me. Had I been more self aware, I would still continue to see you each night at Mistress Quickly’s” He looked at her, “You and your Aunt share some of the blame.” He said in a stern tone, “You should have been truthful with me from the first night we met."
            “How?” She asked having heard these words from him before. “My lord, do you not remember our first night together? You took me by the hand without so much as a word and whisked me away to a room upstairs. When was there a moment for conversation?” She looked down again, “Only afterwards did you ask my name."
            Both fell silent a moment as Hal remembered far clearer then he cared to. He behaved like a beast. “I was far to bewitched by your beauty to have control over myself.” Another long moment of silence passed before Hal shook his head and sighed. He took her hand and pulled her onto his lap and kissed her, “Lets not dwell on such unpleasantness now. We will make the most of the time we have together. Finally we are alone and can enjoy each other’s company without fear of being disturbed.” Rayne smiled and they kissed once, then feverishly kissed again. His one hand on her back and the other resting on her thigh.
            Passion between them had never been an issue. He had strong arms and his touch made her skin tingle. She had gotten to a point where she was eager to see him come into the tavern and call for her. But it was only a brief period of time, because everything changed when it was confirmed she was pregnant. The horror stories she was told, her Aunt told her so many times how her life was ruined and no respectable man would want her now. The prince would be done with her, even have her killed if he was angry enough with her. She was young and she was easily influenced by the tales she was told. She was terrified and she was heartbroken. Hal had always treated her with kindness, but he was royalty and it was said that royalty could turn on you if it suited them. She was always tormented from the first day. The pleasure of seeing him, of feeling his embrace, and knowing in her heart she was dirt under the aristocracy’s feet.
            Their kisses paused a moment both needed to catch their breath from their passions. Hal’s hand moved to the back of her head and he rested his forehead to hers as they both laughed a little. He looked into her eyes, “The bed chamber?” He said a sparkle in his eyes. Rayne smiled and nodded. Both jumped to their feet holding each others hands as they raced for the bedroom hardly able to wait.
Royal Arrangements
            The King sat in silence having taken supper with his lifelong friend and most trusted companion who had just recently returned from abroad. They had spent the day together talking and reminiscing. News from across the channel and news of his friend. Nothing could prevent the Kings most pressing issue which was distracting for more important matters from coming into topic.
            Completely caught by surprise, his childhood friend offered him a solution he was not expecting to the problem at hand. “It does me good to see you James. You’ve been most loyal, faithful and trustworthy as you’ve served me. I’ve rewarded you well in my gratitude for all you have done as a true friend. You’ve lost your wife, your sons, you’ve been through more than your share my friend. I would never ask you to take such a burden.”
            James started to laugh, “Henry, as you have just said my family is gone. My wife to a brain fever, my sons to war. My home is empty, I don’t see the burden of the sound of laughter and life filling my halls again.”
            The King sighed, “She’s a peasant James. If you desire a companion we can find someone more suitable of your rank and title. You're one of the wealthiest men in all of England. You could have your choice of maidens.” The King pointed out.
            The old man smiled, “Have you met her? Even seen her?” He asked.
            “No. Henry would not be so foolish as to bring her here, and I would forbid it and have him flogged if the very idea crossed his mind. He’s embarrassed us enough.” The king was quite serious in his words, angry that all of this had come to pass. “The whole matter is made even worse by his believing he loves the wench. Foolish boy.” He hissed in disgust.
            “I’ve seen her My Lord. And there aren’t words to describe her beauty, an air of wide eyed innocence only enhances is. She is beyond lovely. No man could resist her, how could a hot blooded young man like Henry have hoped not to be entranced.” The king fell silent, thinking on the matter a few more moments.
            “You truly want this girl James? Even knowing she’s carrying my son’s bastard child?” He questioned.
            James gave a nod, “Give us your blessing, my lord, and we shall be wed and I will take her with me back to my home this very day.”
            The King had never dreamt of such fortune smiling on the situation. Once she was wed and gone, the rumors would subside and soon be forgotten. James was a good man, and would never beat or hurt the girl or the child. They would be in good hands.
            “Looks can be deceiving; I know very little about her except my son found her working in a tavern of all places.” The King grumbled. He looked at James again, “If you are certain that this is want you want, to take this girl and her issue into your house as your bride, then . . . yes you have my blessing. We will have her sent for immediately, all will be arranged.”
            “Thank you sire.” James said with a bow.

To Be Continued . . . .
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The Company Thou Keepest