Chapter V

The sunlight streaming through the drawn curtains made Roger wince, but he didn't move. He just felt so lazy and content at the moment, laying next to his mistress, the silk sheets an exquisite sensation for his bare skin.
Propping himself up on an elbow, he looked down at Delia of Eldorne. He wanted to remember all of her; her soft lips, her long lashes, the way her brow wrinkled slightly when she slept, as if she was deep in thought...
Unfortunately, Roger thought, there are no brains to go with the looks. Well, maybe a gram. That's it. Roger was heartily sick of Delia's witlessness...
Delia stirred, mumbling softly in her sleep. Roger got up and pulled on his trousers and a pair of boots, then moved to the window and pushed away the curtains.
It was a beautiful day. The sun shone brightly, there were hardly any clouds. The only reminder of what time of year it was was the icicles hanging from almost every window-ledge.
And I have to go out today, he thought glumly. He wasn't looking forward to the four-day ride to the City of the Gods - but his uncle, King Roald, had commanded him, Squire Thom of Trebond, several knights and some soldiers to go to where Lady Alanna was last seen before being ambushed.
Roger hoped that they wouldn't find her. He had absolutely no intention of getting married and settling down. But a royal command is a royal command, and it's treason if I don't do it. He smiled at the reflection thrown back at him while he washed his face. His vivid blue eyes sparkled with inner amusement. My plans alone are enough to buy me a life time on Traitor's Hill...
From behind him, Delia sighed and sat up, green eyes heavy with sleep.
she yawned, stretching herself so that her body arched attractively.
Drying his face, Roger turned to her. Good morning, pretty.
Delia smiled. She wrapped herself in the sheets, got up and moved close to Roger so that she could kiss him softly. Then she looked out the window. It looks so cold - Master, aren't you supposed to be outside already?
came the muffled reply; Roger was pulling on a silk undershirt.
The riders His Majesty commanded to find...your lady...are almost all asembled outside. Delia couldn't say Alanna's name; her throat clenched angrily.
exclaimed Roger. He jerked to the window and cursed loudly. Damn it all! He ran around, dressing warmly and grabbing the bags he had packed the night before.
Thank you, sweet, he told Delia. He kissed her gently. You know that when I come back, and if she's found, then we can't do this anymore. I suggest you find someone else to pour your affections on.
Eyes glinting, Delia nodded. Anything, Master. Gods bless. She pulled on her dress and ran out of the room.
With a sigh, Roger slipped into his cloack, shouldered his bags, and made his way to courtyards.


That's it for now. I'm sorry - you want more. You'll have to write a REVIEW, yes, you read me right - a REVIEW!!! Till next time!
Giovanna xoxo