Chapter 1: Desires of The Heart

The sun sat behind a thin layer of clouds. There was a soft wind rolling off the sea. These were typical days at the castle on the hill by the sea.

The gates were opened; workers went about their chores. Some cleaned and fed the horses, some brought fresh fruits and vegetables from the nearby farms, and some stood guard and watched out for visitors. Prince Liam was diligently working on his sword skills in the courtyard.

The loud clanking of medal against medal filled the courtyard as Liam and the King’s commander went at it. The point of Liam’s sword was inches from Aethelbald’s chest, “You’re making this far too easy, Aethelbald,” Liam announced proudly.

Suddenly, his body was on its way to the dusty ground from the firm kick Aethelbald stuck him with in a swift move. The sword fell by his side and slid a few inches away. He grunted. Aethelbald’s arm reached out, and their hands touched, “Sorry, Prince Liam.”

“No, don’t be. I want to be ready.”

His strong hand which had been tested by many battles, rested on Liam’s right shoulder, “And you shall.”

The King entered the courtyard wearing a royal red flamboyant robe adorned with various stones. His stern look made the two men stand at attention, “Father,” Liam spoke.

“King Oswald,” added Aethelbald.

He greeted them with a single nod. His eyes searched the area briefly, “And your brother, Prince Oswald, where is he?” the King questioned. Oswald was his oldest son and next in line for the throne. He expressed a great deal of interest in taking on the duty but was constantly missing in action.

Prince Liam responded quickly, “He wanted to spend some time praying this morning.”

This satisfied the King. He loved that his sons were so passionate about their faith and their country. “Very well, I should hope to speak to you both during this evening’s feast. We have some very important things to discuss.” He turned to Aethelbald, “Might we speak in private?”

Aethelbald nodded and walked with the King. Liam sighed. He hurried over to his horse, a beautiful black stallion, and rode off toward the forest.

The night was nearly over. Liam was at his desk reading by the light of a few candles when his bedroom door creaked open. He looked over his shoulder; he saw Oswald fully dressed, “And where are you off to?” he asked with squinted eyes.

Oswald tossed a playful grin as he strolled closer, “For a little ride. Are you interested in accompanying me?” he responded.

Liam’s head tilted. His blue eyes studied his brother with concern, “You know that we cannot.”

Oswald shrugged, “And why not?” he asked as if he wasn’t aware.

Liam sighed, “It’s a dangerous game you’re playing.”

Oswald stood frozen for several seconds. “How can love be dangerous?” he asked with a sappy smile.

Liam shook his head, “It is when you allow yourself to fall in love with a woman whom you cannot have in marriage.”

He nodded, “No matter. I’m going. Are you coming with?”

Liam remained silent. Oswald smirked, “Oh, little brother. You should have more fun. You’re far too serious. When I become King, I will remove these foolish rules about who can marry whom.”

Liam chuckled, “I hope that for your dear brother, but until that day comes ... I should like for you not to test Father’s patience too much.”

Oswald smiled, “I’ll be back before the day’s first light.”

Liam remembered their conversation that night. Somehow, Oswald failed to return by first light. It was nearly midday when he rode up to the rustic farm-style house. He saw his brother’s horse tied to a fence made with logs. He placed his horse next to his brother’s. His feet carried him to the door; his knuckles met the rickety wood separating him from the interior. Moments later, the door opened.

His eyes rested on a fair-skinned woman with big brown eyes. Her sandy-blonde hair was tussled; she wore a simple white gown. Her peach-colored nipples showed through the garment. Liam looked away, “I’m looking for my brother,” he said plainly.

“Prince Liam, come inside,” she said as she bowed; she stepped backward. The door shut, “Might I offer you some water or wine?”

He shook his head, “I’m fine,” he responded as he continued to look away from her barely covered body. His brother lay in bed under a simple blanket, “Oswald, we must leave,” he insisted.

Oswald left the bed. His naked body wasn’t as chiseled as his younger brother’s. Yet he managed to have a decent size. He stood five feet ten inches tall. His dark brown hair was chin length with a part down the middle. His face was scruffy from not shaving over the last few days. Slowly he looked around for his clothes. Abigale handed him the pants, “Thank you, my love,” he said as his lips pressed to hers.

Liam cleared his throat, “Brother.”

“Liam could you give us a few minutes,” he said as he stared into her wanting eyes.

“I will do no such thing. We must go now. I would hate to return to Father and tell him where you spend your time when you’re supposed to be training for battle.”

Oswald rolled his eyes, “It seems my brother is being difficult, I have to leave you. I will return as soon as I can.”

Liam left the house. Oswald quickly dressed and met his brother outside by their horses, “You wouldn’t tell Father about this, would you?”

“You know me better than that.”