Chapter 1

1.

On a path, consumed by fog, I am walking. The path is blurred and my sight is limited to only my hands before me. I am uncertain of what direction I am to go or the direction I came from. Do I continue and chance getting lost? Will the fog dissipate? Am I lost? Have I been walking for long? How did I get here? Where am I? Who am I? My mind is racing and Spinning. My heart is pounding the wall of my chest so hard, the sound seems to echo all around me.

It is cold and damp. The fog is bright as day however, I cannot feel the warmth of the sun on my face. The path is brick leading only forward or backwards. I stand alone frozen with fear.

There is a voice, it calls to me. It is faint and distant, yet, it surrounds me. I see shadows racing around in the fog, taunting me. I called them and begged them to help me. The voice is still calling me. I scream "Here! I am here!" The shadows only dance away like marionette dolls. No one is here to help me. I am alone. This can't be real. I wrap my arms around my shoulders as I sit on the path and cry.

I begin to rise above the path, floating like a butterfly caught in a summer breeze. Destitute and vulnerable, I am unable to influence the trajectory. The voice is louder. I can hear it all around me, coming from all directions. The fog begins to dissipate and my surroundings become more visible. I look down and see I was on a very narrow lane surrounded by clouds as if I was walking on a mountain peak. I am still rising. Panic grips me and I fight the force that is pulling at me. I grab for some sort of anchor. My hands only find air and fog. Where am I going? How can this be? Am I a spirit? Have I met my demise? How is it I don't remember?

As I ascend the voice begins to talk to me. I still can't comprehend the message but, the voice is soothing, taking all my fear with each syllable it utters. A sense of peace washes over me. The fog no longer consumes me. It is below my rising body blocking the view of the world I once stood in. My surroundings become clearer and I can see stars moving quickly toward me. I am transfixed by each passing one. I want to stop and examine them more closely. I can feel their warmth and power on my flesh, the brilliance that they illuminate. I try to propel my body in their direction and find I am unable to. Fear fills me again as I struggle to break free. Only the force that is pulling at me knows where my journey will lead me.

I relax again as I allow the unknown force to pull me. I remember a song from my childhood and begin to hum it to myself 'Twinkle twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are." I giggle and think how silly I must look floating above the world singing nursery rhymes. How long have I been floating? All sense of time seems to be lost to me. I have no worries about my life, only of my destination. The stars become distant and insignificant. Dreamless sleep befalls me as I am still rising.

2.

As I awake, I realize I am beyond the stars of the heavens of my world. Blackness engulfs me and ahead in the distance is a small white light. Is that the end of this journey? Fear consumes me once again. I am not ready to face what is beyond. The fists of fate have a hold of me. The voice is soft and distinguished. I feel no threat of harm. I begin to feel anxious to meet this individual who has called me from so far. In the depths of my mind I think I am dreaming. None of this can be real. The light is getting brighter. I can feel its warmth touch on my cheeks. There is a smell of clean cotton hanging in the spring air when the lilacs are blooming. I feel at peace.

Brightness consumes me as my body is pulled into the center of its origin. The voice is still calling to me. It is pleading for me to come. The words are of another dialect, foreign, and strange to my ears. My body is warm with want and need to reach my destination. I can feel my heart beating hard through my chest with anticipation of what I will encounter. My mind is racing, trying to rationalize my circumstance. Emotions flood me. Some I have never felt; others in times past.

The light is so bright I am blinded. I reach out my hands and feel nothing. It is neither cold nor hot. I do not hunger. As I breathe in the air around me I cannot taste or smell the lilacs in the air. I am cut off from all my senses except one. I can still hear the voice. It is closer now.

As I begin to descend, my feet land on solid ground. My eyes focus and as they do, a figure materializes before me from the light itself. At first it is nothing more than a shadow that begins to take shape. As the moments pass, it becomes clearer, I can begin to make out the figure of a man. He was tall, with dark hair, and dark eyes wearing a white robe that fell to his feet. His skin was white as the light that surrounded us. He stood before me beautiful and terrifying. The core of my soul shivered with fear and lust. I could not hear the voice calling to me any longer. The man before me stood silent, examining my very existence. I felt naked before him.

3.

I stood frozen in awe. My mind raced with questions. I opened my mouth and found I couldn't speak. He walked toward me silently with no expression. He extended his right arm toward my face. As I tried to flinch away, I found that I couldn't move. His hand was gentle as it caressed my face and tucked my hair behind my ear. He moved closer to me, walking behind me he whispered into my left ear "I've been waiting". He wrapped his arms around my shoulders and pulled me into his body. As he did so, he kissed my neck. He was cold and hard like marble. My eyes closed, I found I could speak again. I asked "How is it I can understand you when I couldn't before?" The man replied "Before you were frightened and unwilling to see beyond the fog. As you have come to accept me, my words have bear meaning." He continued to caress my neck with his gentle lips, one arm around my waist, his other around my shoulders. His grip was gentle yet, firm and unwavering.

My limbs were his to command. I could feel warmth grow within that surged through my whole body. I began to quiver. As I did so, his grip tightened, pulling me deeper into his body. He whispered again "Open your eyes''. I was unaware that I had closed them in the rush of feelings that had begun to overwhelm me. I opened my eyes and realized the landscape had changed. It was cold and snowing. The snow came from around us rather than above us. We were still consumed by the white light that didn't give away to the landscape. We stood before a large mirror embedded in what appeared to be a rock wall. Strange symbols carved into the rock created a border around what appeared to be a mirror. Yet, there was no reflection of our bodies. Just the swirling snow.

He waved his right hand in a semi-circular motion and each symbol began to glow a faint yellow. In one short movement, he turned me around facing him. He pulled me even tighter against his body. I could feel every defined muscle on his chest through his robe. He looked deep into my eyes as if searching my soul. I stood silent allowing him to examine me. After what seemed an eternity he spoke. "Do you not know me? How is it you have forgotten me?" I looked into his black eyes and pondered his question. Did I know him?

He wrapped his arms around me in a full embrace. It was so deep and passionate it lifted me off the ground. My body became hot with passion. Fear gripped me and I pushed away. As I did so, I looked into his eyes and saw hurt and rejection. His arms loosened their grip around me and he spoke softly into the air. "It is as I thought. You have forgotten my face. I must show you your beginnings. Turn into the looking glass. There you will see I have always been by your side protecting you. Once it is done you will be given a choice to reside in this realm with me or endure the demise I have rescued you from."

Tears filled my eyes. Again, fear washed over me.. I searched his eyes for answers and received none. His eyes became as cold and hard as his body. The need to embrace him overwhelmed me. Yet, I was powerless to do so. I closed my eyes and the tears began to fall. He reached down and lifted my chin towards him. I could feel his lips kiss away my tears. I tried to speak and as I did my words came out as a sob. "I feel you. My soul knows you. I don't understand why I don't remember you." Slowly he turned me again towards the mirror.

I opened my eyes and took a deep breath. As I exhaled I could see my breath against the brisk air. It had gotten colder as we stood before the looking glass. He moved from behind me and held my hand in his. Together we walked closer to the mirror. He turned to me and blew me a kiss. As he did, he began to fade away. I held his hand with both of mine. "Please don't leave me" I shouted. He was gone. I stood once again alone. I walked to the mirror and wiped the snowflakes away with my bare hands. I shivered as the cold moved up my hand and through my body. Looking intently into the glass, for something to see. Cold and exhausted I began to pound on the glass in frustration. The glass became liquid and engulfed my hands. I couldn't pull away. The silvery liquid traveled up my arms and began pulling me in. I resisted with all my might. The more I struggled, the faster the liquid drew me in. I could hear his voice whispering in my ear. "You will know me. I will not let you fall, for it was I who brought you here." In my final descent through the mirror I could feel him wrapped around my body as if protecting me. Then the feeling was gone and I was falling.

4.

At first there was only darkness. Then the stars began to pass me with great speed. A few moments later I was passing through the clouds. I continued to plummet toward the world like a falling star. Suddenly, I came to an abrupt stop. Landing hard enough to knock the breath from my lungs. Arms and legs outstretched, I struggled to breathe, my heart pounding in my chest. I laid there in the dark waiting for my eyes to adjust and as they did, I found I was in a room laying on a large bed. I didn't recognize the room. It was cold; the walls appeared to be made of stone. There was a tiny window that allowed only the moon light to show through. A fireplace was nested in the wall across the foot of the bed. A small table with a pitcher and small bowel was next to the fireplace. The bed was huge with detailed carvings of ivy climbing up the posts to the canopy.

I slipped out of the bed and walked to the window. I scanned the landscape as far as my eyes could see in the darkness. Only the stars in the sky showed through the vast blackness of the night. His voice came to me again "Look at the stars. See how they shine for you?" I turned to see him and only saw a shadow move in the corners of my eyes. I searched the whole room and found I was alone. Convinced this must be a dream, I crawled back into the large bed. A chill came over me and I slipped into the covers. I was surprised to feel silk against my skin. The comforter felt of lush velvet. I laid my head on the down filled pillow welcoming sleep.

As I laid there in the moments before sleep I could feel a presence wrap around me. Drowsy, I asked "Who are you?" I received no reply, only silence. The back of my hair fell away from my neck. As it did, I could feel the sweet caress of the stranger. My body lit on fire and I moaned. How good his touch felt against my skin. I did not open my eyes. Instead I allowed him to touch me without fear. His hand lightly held my hip as his lips kissed the nape of my neck. Slowly his hand moved to my waist and traced the curves of my body. He pulled me into his chest and groin. I could feel him swell next to me. His hand moved to my breast and cupped it. As he did my body pressed back against his. I was faintly aware I too was dressed in a white silk robe and I was wearing no undergarments. I let the thought flutter from my mind as his fingers pinched lightly on my nipple. Another moan escaped my mouth. His lips traced the outline of my shoulder and down my collar bone. I turned my body towards him to fully embrace his warm lips. He was gone. I opened my eyes and sat up to scan the room. Again I was alone. Tears filled my eyes and I wept.

Day 1 at the castle.

I awoke in the morning to sunlight in my eyes. Sitting up, I realized I was in the same room. Nestled in the corner was a chair with a gown made of silk and plush blue velvet. I pulled my legs out from the covers and stepped down onto the floor. It was cold cobblestone. I walked to the chair and took the white robe off. I noticed the pitcher and bowl on the small table. There was a small cloth laid next to it. I moved to it and began to wash myself. The water felt cool next to my bare skin. Once I was done I mulled over the dress, looking at the richness of the color and the simplicity of the style. Was this really meant for me? I was surprised the dress was a perfect fit. Next to the bed were blue slippers. Everything was laid out like bread crumbs for me to follow.

Once dressed, I investigated the rest of the room. There was a large wooden door on the wall opposite of the window. The latch was made of black iron. I pulled on the latch and took in the view. It led to a large cobble stone hallway. The walls are decorated in large intricate tapestries. Large beams line the ceiling. The hallway ended at the door of the room. I stood examining it all, trying to understand what my purpose here is.

The only movement in the hall was the tracery around the windows swaying in the light breeze. Slowly, I moved down the hall. The slippers were soft under my feet. At the end of the hall was a winding staircase that led down to a lower floor. I stood silent at the foot of the stairs listening for signs of others below before I descended. Silence was all that could be heard. I took a deep breath and began down to the unknown.

The stairs lead to a large enclosed circular courtyard. The sky was bright against my eyes. Birds were flying above chirping soft melodies. A faint smell of food was coming from a door opening to my left. My stomach began to grumble with hunger. I stepped lightly towards the door still taking in my surroundings.

5.

I entered into a large rustic kitchen gallery. A large butcher block was centered in the middle of the room. A fireplace was located on the far wall with a pot hanging from a rod over warm coals. The floor was the same cobblestone as the tower. The room was littered with several grass weaved baskets containing vegetables and fruit. Cuts of meat were hanging from the ceiling. There was another door to my right. As I drew near, the aroma of food became stronger. I opened the door to an elaborate dining hall. The walls had tapestries outlining the stone keeps history. The table was long and large enough to entertain fifty or more diners. At the far end was a feast of eggs, waffles, fruit, pudding, and fresh milk. I hurried to seat myself. Hunger overtook me and I ate till I couldn't eat another bite.

Breakfast complete, I took notice of the scenes on the tapestries. The last one showed a woman in plush blue velvet crying over the grave of her lover as his spirit ascended towards the heavens. I rose from my chair to examine them more closely. The man in the tapestry had a close resemblance to my stranger and curiosity got the better of me. Each tapestry showed a scene of the keeps former owners. The first one showed a man on one knee with a fist full of lilac blooms before a beautiful young woman in a white silk robe. She was blushing. The second showed the laborers building the keep. The third was of their apparent marriage. The border of the rug was done in lilac and men were toasting while the women followed the young couple showering them with fresh flower petals. The next one was more disturbing. Orange flame rose up to meet a small ship. The man was holding the woman in his arms protecting her against the rocks as the waves beat against him. Then the last, her grief was hidden by a thin veil. He looked down upon her with love and affection. I stood mesmerized by the landscape. Is he the man in the tapestry? I headed back out to the courtyard to find the main gate. The tomb must be close by. I must find it. I have to know who this stranger is and what he is to me.

6.

Walking back through the kitchen and out to the courtyard, I was startled to see a white horse grazing in the grass. He picked up his head and walked toward me. His soft velvet nose nuzzled my cheek. I climbed on his back and whispered for him to take me to him. The horse responded without hesitation and took me out the main gate. To the left of the stone keep was the ocean about a mile into the horizon. On the right was a rolling countryside. Not far from the keep was a hill where a large rock stood, similar to the hill in the tapestry. The horse walked at a slow pace in that direction.

The morning sky was a brilliant blue. The sun was bright and promising of a warm day. I found the dress to be rather cool despite the thick velvet. The horse needed no guidance and continued in my desired direction allowing me the opportunity to take in the landscape.

Beyond the hills appeared to be woods. The tree tops seemed to stretch for miles along the horizon. Birds flew to and from within the outstretched limbs. I scanned for indications of dwellings within the woods and found nothing. A light breeze blew across the meadow. I closed my eyes and stretched out my arms to enjoy its cooling effects. I looked back at the stone keep. It was a small round castle made of stone on top of a hill. Only a few windows looked out to the hills from the second floor. To the east of the castle was a cliff base leading to the ocean. The ocean seemed infinite and vast. I couldn't hear the ocean waves from this distance. The only sounds were the birds above and the soft footfalls of the horse.

The horse climbed up the steep hill toward the rock. I leaned into the horse's neck to keep from sliding off. I could feel its heartbeat and its constant puffs of air as it breathed. Its mane was as soft as silk in my hands. The horse ascended steadily up while I took all of it in. Within minutes we reached the top. The horse stopped short of the rock. I slid off his back. He gave a deep neigh as if approving of the loss of weight on his back. He turned to me and nuzzled me again with his soft velvet nose. I giggled a bit as the horse found his way into the crotch of my neck and shoulder.

I looked around from the top of the hill, expecting to see something I may have missed. Everything appeared to be the same. When I turned to look at the rock, I saw a shadow disappear into the stone structure. I ran up to the face and found it was a doorway to an underground tomb. The entrance had long ago been sealed with stone and mortar. Now, the stones had been reduced to no more than rubble. The morning sun was aligned perfectly to light my way. I descended down about twenty steps. A room opened to a crypt. Lit torches hung from the stone and sod walls. In the center was a stone carved tomb.

The tomb had been carved in the shape of a long ago Knight. I questioned to myself, "Maybe the lord of the castle?" The Knight was dressed in full armor, shield, and sword. The details of the face had been worn with time. There was an inscription on the side. The words were written in another language. Or were they? I looked more closely. The inscription had the same symbols from the looking glass. The words kept jumping out at me causing my eyes to strain. My head began to throb as I stared intently. I sat on the ground next to the tomb, pulling my knees into my chest and wrapping my arms around them. I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and exhaled. When I opened my eyes the words had arranged themselves in an order I could make sense of. The tomb read "Here lies Sir William I. Beloved husband and Ruler." There was more but no matter how I looked at it I couldn't make it out. I sat there for a moment longer. The sodden ground was damp. I was sure it had ruined the beautiful gown I was wearing. I pondered the name. Was this my stranger?

I stretched my legs before I stood. How good it felt. I examined the back of my dress. The velvet was only damp and did not appear to be stained. I walked around the back of the tomb. There were no other passages written in the stone. I looked at the torches and wondered who had lit them and who had made my elaborate breakfast? I hadn't seen another living soul since waking here. I shook the thought out of my mind. There must be another person here besides me.

When I emerged from the tomb, the sun was high in the sky indicating early afternoon. Hours had passed while I was in the crypt. The horse was grazing nearby. I walked slowly to him and slid my hand to his silky mane. He raised his head to greet me. As he did, I pulled myself onto his back. Now, I wanted to look at the cliffs near the sea. As though the horse could read my mind he descended down the hill in his slow steady pace.

7.

We passed the castle gates as we walked toward the cliffs. From the corner of my eye, I could see people busy performing chores. I quickly turned my head in their direction. When I did, there was nothing to see but the vacant courtyard. I stopped the horse and slid off his back. I stood looking at emptiness. Pushing the fear down to the depths at which it came, I pulled myself back onto the white horse. He gave a neigh as we began to walk.

The cliffs were about a mile from the castle. The waves grew loud as we approached. I walked to the very edge and looked over. The cliff was about fifty yards above the water. The waves crashed into the rocks with great force. Water spray misted me with each incoming wave. Seagulls flew over the water in the distance. I could see no paths leading down, no ships on the horizon, and no beach. I was standing alone in the vast new world. My legs became weak. I had to sit or I would collapse. Lying in the soft grass I stared up into the sky. A new moon is visible in the day sky. I was trapped and alone. Even the man on the moon couldn't wake me from this dream. I pulled myself up and began to walk on my own toward the castle. The horse followed nudging at my arm in protest with his velvet nose. I drudged on as hopelessness filled me.

I crossed the castle gates with my head down, hands balled into fists, and tears falling from my eyes. The horse walked to the center of the court yard and began to graze. I walked to the stairwell leading to my bedchamber. The smell of lunch lingered in the warm air. I was tired and found I had no appetite. Sleep was the only thing I could manage. Slowly I made my way up the winding staircase to the hallway.

The tapestries seemed older and less vibrant as they did this morning. I passed them quickly giving them no more notice. I opened my door and found my room was filled with lavender lilac blooms. The scent was sweet and relaxing. They were tied to the canopy with ribbons of white. Lit candles had been placed on the mantle above the fireplace. A white silk nightgown was laid out across the bed. The pitcher had been replenished with freshwater. The daylight was fading quickly. I removed the velvet dress and began to wash my body. My shadow grew long and danced in the candle light. Time had seemed to move quickly here.

I could feel the tips of his fingers trace down the sides of my back. He was here with me. I stopped washing as he stepped out in front of me. Without a word he took the cloth from my hand. He dipped it in the bowl and slowly sat me down in the chair. Gently he cleansed my shoulders and back. When he was finished he laid the cloth next to the bowl and lifted me into his arms. Softly he laid my body onto the bed and hovered above me.

His lips engulfed mine hard and passionate. I pushed my body up against his and wrapped my arms around his neck. My fingers played in his long black waves. I ran my left hand down his back till I found the hem of his shirt. He stopped briefly as I pulled his shirt over his head. Looking into my eyes he pulled me to him with one arm and stood. Transfixed by his gaze I met his eyes with my own. His bare skin was warm next to mine. I ran my hand through the hair on his chest as he kissed my neck. Again he laid me across the bed. I pulled his head to mine and whispered "I am yours if you want me." He kissed down my neck and gently licked my nipple. As I moaned out in pleasure I could feel him enter me. My body lifted in an unexpected orgasm. He pulled my body to him like a rag doll. Again, he stood looking into my eyes, clutching me in his grip and spoke for the first time since our initial encounter. "Do you know me?" Sheepishly I replied, "William?" He smiled and said "Say it again and be convincing." Before I could, he pushed me against the wall and thrusted himself deeply into me. His name came out as a soft moan. Our shadows danced on the walls behind us as our bodies became one.

8.

Day 2 at the castle.

Morning brought sweet sounds of birds chirping and warm sunlight. I stretched my arm out to feel for William. All I found was an empty pillow. Loneliness filled me. Everything seems so surreal. I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and sat up looking about the room. Everything was the same as the evening before. I was wearing the white nightgown as though nothing had happened. In the chair was another velvet dress. This one was red with lace and gold trim. I dressed as I did the morning before. As I stepped out of my bed chamber I found a white rose on the cobble stone floor. A red ribbon was tied around it in a bow. Quickly I rushed to the court yard and to the banquet hall.

Breakfast had been laid out. I let out a small sigh. William was not here. Nor was anyone else. the room was completely empty. Not even a mouse. I have so many questions and I feel so isolated. Why had he brought me here? So many questions swirling in my mind but, ultimately, I missed his presence. The more I thought of him the less I felt like breakfast. I laid my head down in my arms and stared at the food. My mind continued to race with so many thoughts. I had no idea who he was or where I was.

As I pushed away from the table I could hear whispers coming from the gallery. I was being watched. I yelled to the door through the candelabras. "Hello? Who is there?" I stood at the end of the long banquet table waiting for a reply. A strange mist rolled along the cobblestone floor. Wonder filled me as I watched the mist grow dense and form a shape. It was William. He was silent and still. There was translucence to his body. He held his hand out to me. I took it in mine and he led me out to the courtyard. As we crossed, a door appeared that was not there the day before.

The molding radiated a faint yellow in the morning sun with the same symbols as the tomb and looking glass. William moved his hand in the same gesture as before and the door opened. I turned and looked up into his eyes. They were far and distant. I could feel no passion in his gaze as I had the night before. Softly I spoke, "William? Who am I?" He gave me no answer, only turned me toward the door and gestured for me to walk through. When I did, torches lit the narrow corridor down another winding staircase. I ran my hand along the wall as I proceeded down the stairs. The stone was rough to my touch. The cold and dampness met my core and a shiver radiated through my body. William followed me down silently. Lit torches led our way through the dark winding passages to the center of the motte.

William took my hand again as we entered the room. He looked at me and spoke, "We are here." I looked around the room. The symbols circled the room carved into the rock walls above our heads. Erected in the center of the room was a large altar. White candles were placed at the four corners. William pushed me to my knees before the altar. Before I could protest, he too knelt before it. He began to chant softly, his words strange and distant. I closed my eyes and listened intently to each syllable. His words began to penetrate my mind and I could see as if reading what he was saying.

''Quiet mind, now be still, focus on what I now will, no scattering or through decision I order you to pay attention, bring clear focus to details enlarge them to scale, attend each project one be one grant clarity 'til work is done.''

I opened my eyes as he continued to chant. I looked at the symbols above our heads. They were glowing bright yellow. The ceiling was black and star constellations began to form. The torches extinguished one by one around the room. Suddenly the chanting stopped and he stood. He pulled me up to my feet. His gaze was empty. I stared hard into his black eyes trying to find a glimpse of emotion. He lifted me into his arms and walked me to the altar. Gently he laid me down on the cold stone shrine. The yellow glow lit the room. The stars swirled above me, twisting and turning into several shapes. He stood at the foot of the altar and began to chant again. I could understand his words. His voice was soft and timid at first. Strength grew in his tone and he began to shout.

''As the candles light, Memories of our love shall unite, Our hearts shall be bonded together, In love we shall stay forever, By day three, You shall come back to me, No reverse or curse, So will it be,''

I laid on the altar unable to move, my eyes were fixed on the changing constellations. I could feel energy enter my body. I closed my eyes and saw visions of William and me in the meadow counting clouds and running hand in hand chasing butterflies. I saw our lives unfold in the darkness of the ceiling. Then it quickly ended in fire and water. The chanting ended. I sat up quickly and clutched my chest. My lungs burned with fire and for a moment I was unable to breath.

He was cradling my head in his arm. Expression had returned to his face. He looked into my eyes with a smile and he asked, "Who am I?" I answered with "William, my husband and ruler." He sighed with relief. "You have returned to me. I felt I had lost you this time forever. Each time takes longer to bring you back to me. Are you ready to meet our noble servants?" I shook my head with wonder. Memories that had not been there began to flood my mind. I looked at William confused and baffled. Trying to comprehend what my mind was absorbing. The first memory was the very day we took our vows to never part. The symbols on the ceiling nearly blinded me as they flashed bright as the sun and the torches began to light again one by one. I remembered looking into his eyes and his into mine promising to never leave each other through death. He had never given up.

I reached up to him and pulled his body closer to mine. He climbed on to the shrine and lay next to me. I cuddled into him till I was strong enough to speak. "William, what happened to me? I saw the tapestry; it was I who mourned your death." William did not speak initially; slowly he began to explain what had happened. "We were sailing the coast line dining and taking in the sites as the ship you had commissioned for me as a wedding gift came under attack by the natives wishing to dethrone me. The gallery took the hardest hit. Flames engulfed the whole ship in a matter of moments. Smoke filled the bedchamber while we slept. I pulled you from our bed and dove into the waters where I held you till rescue." I could see everything. The waves as they hurled over our heads, the flames as the ship went down, and him, pulling me to the rocks. I could almost taste the salt water on my lips. I could recall nothing else beyond that.

I looked deep into his eyes and asked, "How many times? How many times have you brought me back with this deep magic of yours? Am I still human?" He gently lifted me from the altar, avoiding my question. I ignored his silence and added, "Your skin is white and your eyes are black. How did you expect me to see you as you were? You are not the same." He walked towards the passages that lead to the staircase with me in his arms.

The night sky greeted us in the courtyard. The full moon looked down on us lonesome and weary. It was only moments ago that I had come down for breakfast. How was the time eluding me so quickly? William continued to carry me to my bedchamber. We did not pass any servants on our way. The castle remained quiet as it had before. Paying little attention to my surroundings, I laid my head into his chest as I had the night before. He held me with such firmness. His body was warm against mine. Something had changed about him. This mysterious man who was cold and hard, has become warm and soft. With my head against his chest, I listened to the rhythm of his heartbeat.

9.

He laid me on the large bed and began to undress me. With a yawn I asked, "William? Will you be here when I awake?" He looked deeply into my eyes for a moment and replied "Yes." I kissed him as passionately as my tired body would allow. His long wavy hair fell around my face. The smell of lilacs filled the room. Lit candles appeared on the hearth and mantle. I guided his kisses down my body. If I was alive, then I wanted to feel alive. I was not about to allow William to leave me tonight. I watched his shadow on the stone walls. My body jumped and quivered with each kiss. He raised his hand to touch my face and my lips met his finger tips. He pulled my leg up to him and kissed down my inner thigh. I squirmed in ecstasy. He sat up on his knees and pulled me onto him. With a hard push of his hips he entered me. A moan escaped my lips as he did. His body was hard and chiseled to perfection. I ran my fingers across every visible muscle and those hidden. His chest glistened with perspiration. Making love to him came so easy. My body couldn't get enough.

Exhausted, I laid my head on Williams's chest. The sound of his heartbeat was soothing. I laid my arm across his chest running my fingers through his thick chest hair. William wrapped his arms around me and my eyes closed as dreamless sleep took me away.

Day 3 at the castle

I was awake before the sun rose by the smell of fresh bacon, eggs, and bread. William had brought breakfast to our bed chamber. I sat up and greeted him with a smile. I was starving for not eating the day before. Our activity last night had taken every ounce of energy I had left to give. I took the plate greedily and began to stuff my mouth using my fingers. William laughed heartily and rubbed the side of my face with affection. He sat next to me and said, "That was supposed to be OUR breakfast." I stopped in shock and looked up at him. I pushed the plate towards him in a gesture to share. I was eagerly chewing, wanting to respond to him. He smiled and pushed it back to me. "You are obviously famished. You must eat. I will have the servants bring up more." William looked so beautiful in the early dawn. I was mesmerized by his every movement.

He was no longer wearing the whitre robe. This morning he was dressed in plush rich velvet and silk. His tunic was of blue silk and his overcoat was black velvet tied with a thick leather belt. A jewel encrusted sword hung to his side. He had black leather boots that came to his knees and tight fitting trousers. A cloak with white fur trim was fastened around his shoulders with a broach. The broach was of delicate metal in the shape of the sun. In the center was a yellow stone. I admired him as I finished eating.

Finally I spoke, "William, you didn't answer me yesterday. How many times have you brought me back? How is it you are able to do so? Why do you keep leaving me here alone?" He looked at me in annoyance. I was unsure how to react to this. He stood up and walked to the window placing his hands behind his back. After a brief moment of silence he spoke, "I had to die to bring you out of purgatory. You were lost. Scribing for you did no good. This is the first time I was able to bring body and spirit together." Shock gripped me and I interrupted him. "What do you mean you had to die?" He turned and faced me. His face was lined in horror as he walked to me and knelt at my bare feet. He clasped my hands in his. He looked up into my eyes and said, "Please forgive me for what I am about to tell you. I would have done anything to bring you back to me. I had gone mad with determination. My life depends on your very existence." I could see how tortured he was. I took his hand and brought it to my cheek and kissed his palm. I looked at him and asked, "How long do I have to be with you?" He pulled his hand away from my face and embraced me.

He stood up and walked back to the window. His back to me, not allowing me to see the tears flow he spoke. "I have never left you! I have spent countless days searching the spellbook of old to find you and bring you back. One night I found a spell to bring back the ghost of loves past. At first there was nothing but a few days past and I would see your ghost wandering throughout the castle keep. I would find you cradling yourself scared and crying. The servants saw you too and became terrified. They deemed the castle haunted and left one by one. Now only a few remain.

I called upon the dark ones for their assistance. They came to me on the last blood moon. I had to die in order to cross into purgatory and pull you out. Once I had you here, the ritual to bring body and soul together could be performed." I looked at him trying to understand and asked, "William, why did you leave me my first night here? When I turned to embrace you, you disappeared." He looked at me in agony. "It was you who left me. I lay in this chamber every night to be awakened by your soft breathing next to me. When I reach out for you, your body fades away. It was only the night's past that I was able to touch your flesh in the whole. Don't you see how tormented I am?" I stood to go to him. The cobble stone was cold under my bare feet. The morning sun was rising and the birds were chirping their soft melodies. I laid my head between his shoulders against the soft velvet cloak he was wearing. I wrapped my arms around his waist and embraced him.

The morning had come to us full and warm. Much was left unspoken as we stood looking out the window. William turned to me and gently kissed my forehead. I wanted to know more but I didn't want to continue to press the matter with him. I quietly asked in embarrassment, "What is my name?" He laughed and kissed me again as he said, "Lady Madelyn of Sorrow Gate." I smiled at him. Again I asked "How long do I have to be with you?" He sighed and pulled away from me. William walked over to the wash basin and looked back at me. "I think it is time you are shown the bathing chamber. I had it commissioned with you in mind. There, I will have your garments laid out for you. We will continue this conversation after you have been attended to properly. Come." William held out his hand to me and led me out to the hall. At the end was another wood door. I had not seen this door prior to now. I found it perplexing.

William put his hands over my eyes as he led me into the bathing chamber. I could smell sweet oils and fresh flowers. I could feel the sunlight on my skin. He pulled his hands down to reveal an elaborate stone basin in front of the window. Someone had filled it with warm water. Rose petals floated on the surface. Vases with orchids and Fuchsia were placed throughout the chamber. Pleased, I turned to William and embraced him. As I did he lifted my arms and undressed me. He smiled and said, "You didn't think I would pass the opportunity?" We both laughed. With William's assistance, I stepped into the basin. The warm water felt so nice.

William opened the door and two chamber maids entered. They were quiet and rushed through their work as not wanting to be in my presence. The women were dressed similarly. Their tunics were grey wool with white aprons tied around their waist. On their heads they wore wimples of white hiding their hair. I smiled at them as they passed me. The older one brought in my gown and slippers. The other one who was taller and younger brought pitchers of water and began to wash my hair with the oils. It was their job to attend to me and they did so in silence. Once they were finished bathing me they began to dress me. The older maid brushed and braided my hair with silk ribbons. The younger maid brought in a tiara on a velvet pillow. The older maid took it and placed it on top of my head. Pleased with their work they both gave me a curtsy and left the room.

William was waiting in the long hallway for me to be completed. He came into the chamber as the maids left. Pleased with their work he took my arm and led me out to the winding stair case. Out in the courtyard, things had changed drastically from the day before. Peasants hurried along with chores. Men were chopping wood and women were cleaning privies. The smell of fresh herbs and meat being roasted emerged from the kitchen gallery. No one seemed to take notice of me as I passed them. It felt good to see and hear others around me. William gave me the grand tour of the castle. It was a small castle. A single tower on a motte. The courtyard was small. Its distance could be walked in a few long strides. The castle walls were completely made of stone with a few chamber openings at the base of the tower. As we toured things I had not seen the day before, appeared. It was mystifying me. I looked at William confused and expecting answers. He did not act in response. William explained that the peasants lived just outside the main gates in a small village. The servants would not stay pass dark because of the cursed reputation of the castle.

10.

The tour ended in the banquet hall. Large platters of food were spread down the entire table. I looked at William questioning the large feast. He pulled a chair out to the right of the grand chair at the head of the table. He gestured for me to sit. So I did. William sat in the grand chair. A man came in and knelt next to William. "Sire, your guests have arrived." William smiled and replied "Bring them in and relieve everyone from their duties for the rest of the day. I do not want to be interrupted till the first sun. Do you understand?" The servant stood still bowing deeply. "Yes sire. It will be done." The man hurried out the gallery door. A few moments later, the servant led a small party of men and their ladies into the hall. Each one took a seat. After the last man was seated the servant left closing the doors behind him.

Everyone was silent for a moment till William stood with his flask in hand and welcomed the visitors. "I would like to thank you for traveling so far to join us this evening. The Blue moon is upon us. Tonight we Feast in honor of my Ladies return. Please, help yourselves." The travelers removed their cloaks. They were all as white as William with black eyes. The women were graceful, petite, and delicate. Their lips were red and luscious. Their mannerisms were graceful and precise. William placed his hand on my lap as I took everything in. The men stood and toasted to the grand feast William had prepared in my honor. I was quiet for the most part. I had no idea who these people were and wondered if I should.

As the feast came to an end, quiet returned to the room. It seemed greater discussions were hanging in the air. A man to Williams left finally stood and spoke directly to me. "I'm sure you have many questions in regards to our being and your return to life. Please allow me to introduce myself to you Lady Madelyn. My name is Regald; we are Walkers of the Realms. We walk between realms guiding lost souls into the light. There the souls are reborn and life a newed. This is my wife Sigha, my brothers, and their ladies. It has come to our attention the Lich King has knowledge of your existence. You are very special my Lady. You are the first spirit to have been returned to their bodies after death and in whole. I am sure you yourself are aware." I looked at William with puzzlement. His expression was of pride and admiration for this man. He turned to me and lifted my hand into his and kissed it.

Regald continued to tell me about his people. I was most interested in how William came to meet them. "The moon and star spirits guide us in our journeys. It was William who found a passage in the Great Book of Old that showed him the way to bring you back to this realm. Once here, he had to bind your body and spirit with his love. If you die, he dies. He has made a great sacrifice. One he was cautioned not to do. William has explained to us you still flicker. Is this true?" I stared at him unsure what he meant by the question. William spoke for me. "Yes, she often comes in and out of the light. Yesterday I followed her. When I first entered this room, she was not here. As I approached this very chair, she materialized before me." Regald seemed distressed by Williams' answer. It was his Lady Sigha that spoke next. "William has this been happening since you brought her back?" William took a sip of wine before he answered. "Yes, she has also changed her perception of her surroundings." Everyone was quiet as they absorbed the conversation. William sat back comfortably in his chair. I studied the expressions of the men. The situation was very puzzling and left me utterly confused. Lost in my thoughts, Regald spoke once again. "I assure you we will do our best to protect her from the Lich. I believe it is time we retire. We will counsel tomorrow. The Blue Moon does not rise for another 10 days. The Lich King will not come before. Till then William, you must find the cause of the flickers." William stood as his guest retired to their bed chambers.

It was quiet as we crossed the courtyard. William scooped me up into his arms prior to us reaching the corridor to the winding staircase. I laughed as he did so. So many memories still eluded me. I had come accustomed to his black eyes over the past few days but, I so badly wanted to see them true. I felt very much alive in his presence. Is it possible we can only exist when together if parted we will both die? William was still smiling and laughing unaware of my thoughts when we reached the bed chamber.

He opened the door with such grace. When we entered he gently put me down on my feet. He pulled his hand to his lips and blew across his palm towards the candles on the hearth and mantel. Instantly they illuminated their soft yellow glow. The room had been renewed with fresh flowers; orchids replaced the lilac blooms around the room. I walked to the bed and wrapped my hands around the post. William walked up behind me with my nightgown and helped me out of my dress. The cold silk felt good on my skin. I crawled up to my pillow and laid my head down. I could barely keep my eyes open. William lay next to me rubbing my hair. I spoke to him as he did. "My memories are coming to me in glimpses. Why don't I remember everything clearly?" He answered softly, "I'm not sure. We will discuss this all in the morning, for now, sleep." He kissed my forehead and the candles went dark.

11.

I dreamt William and I were lying next to a brook in the forest. He was lying on his side with his head propped up on one arm. I was on my stomach with my arms crossed. We both wore white silk gowns with gold sashes. Everything was white and the light seemed to consume us from all directions. The trees sparkled like diamonds and white puffy clouds passed above us. All around were white orchids. William had the most incredible blue eyes I had ever seen. Dreamily, we spent the day watching the clouds pass over us.