Chapter 1 - Opening
			 __________________

Long is the time to be forgotten, this wandered world. Yet, so longing is the spirit. But alas, for the all, there is still the one.

So is the case for young John Halbred. A boy to most but a wanting man to himself.  And, as innocence succumbs to the days, John’s young 
life wanes to life’s daily rituals.  Of which, John’s  job at the market place, with its carnival type atmosphere, was his favorite.  

The market was at the heart of this port city. Where lonely crews, with little gold, could part company, while being cajoled, pleased and 
sedated by the locals. With flame throwers, jugglers, jesters, pirates in the flesh brandishing wooden legs, eye patches, swords, parrots, and the 
occasional fight to the death or whoever passed out first, what fun loving boy wouldn’t want to be here  and God willing, forever.

Of course, life continues outside of this festival. Normalcy begets a mundane reality of repetition. Days progress to nights and then to 
morning. Where the awakening is not the rooster, but the wailing drunkard headed back to where he began - the market place. For John, let 
the bell toll the hour of the time that lay before him.

			Chapter 2 - Chase
			_________________

Choose a destiny, for fate’s hand is that of the wearer. Atkins Halbert, the older brother of John Halbert, chose a fate his spirit would regret.

Life was never terribly hard on Atkins. Opportunities would present themselves now and again, but opportunities for the better were always 
overlooked, leaving little choice for what was about to befall him.

Atkins was a thief and pickpocket. To his mother, Atkins was an unfortunate child, who was wandering aimlessly in search of himself. She 
prayed for him every night, but soon her hope would change to grief. 

Young John never knew his brother’s true occupation. Atkins was never John’s hero, but Atkins was a brother and a friend. “Atkins is true 
of heart, just lost of soul”. John’s mother said more than once. “A good man he be, if father were here”, she would always end.

But a tame heart never helped feed a hungry stomach, nor feed a dear mother and kind brother. So, Atkins finds himself at work, along the 
streets, then into the market place, and at last following his victims to a local pub. Here, a group of drinking seamen, fresh from conquer, and 
heavy of purse and drink, sit to sing and drown their plight until the next voyage and adventure. Atkins poses as a man looking for fun and 
frolic, casually introduces himself, then hedges acceptably around the fringe. Once the group passes out - so would their gold, out the door, in 
Atkins pockets.  

All went as planned until, “HOLD ON Ye There!” Atkins had vastly underestimated a man called Black Heart, who, it seemed, drank 
liquor like a calf suckles its mother’s milk, more for sustenance than for pleasure. Black Heart’s booming voice awoke his minions. Atkins, not 
waiting for a sliced gullet, bolted out the pub door. The sunrise took Atkins by surprise, as it did his largely grouped pursuers - neither of 
whom slowed down the flight or the chase.  Black Heart broke his group into tactical flanks. The maneuver was meant to encapsulate the 
prey. For Black Heart wanted to confront the thief, and, so he did.

Atkins stood dripping in fear. Black Heart walked toward the cowardly figure and unsheathed his sword.  Atkins, threw the gold purses 
before Black Heart’s boots, and begged forgiveness. Black Heart bellowed, “They beckon for me in HELL. So, let you be my sacrifice, 
THIEF.”

	Chapter 3 - Cry Brother  
			_______________________

Young John Halberd was on his way to his job at the market place. It was Saturday morning, school was out, and the customers would be in 
flock. The carnival, that is the market place, would be in full splendor, but he would have to work there all day - an easy sacrifice.

John noticed a few people running south, but didn’t pay heed to it. Two more people ran past him, also heading south. John was about to 
query the two, but one turned to him and yelled, “Fight, there’s a fight”. John ran excitedly in their footsteps. Young John thought, what 
better way to start a day, but with two swashbucklers dueling it out to the finish. When John arrived at the scene, he could see nothing. The 
crowd was large, and they encircled the area. John, now, most wantonly, had to be witness to this event. Using his small frame, he wiggled 
and squirmed through the mass of people until he reached daylight.

Before him lay his dying brother. An overwhelming sinking feeling came over him. Young John fell to his knees. His legs were unable to 
support his heavy pain and intense shock. John crawled to his only brother and looked into his eyes. Atkins eyes were full of panic, and upon 
seeing John, reached out his hand to grasp John. Young John took his brothers’ hand within his hands, laid his head to rest on those hands, and 
wept with sorrow and bewilderment.

A physician arrived at the scene and dived toward the dying patient. Young John raised his heavy head. The doctor was meddling with 
Atkin’s neck. The constable’s voice was over heard. John turned his head to see the constable talking to a large bearded and gruesome man. 
The large man claimed Atkins was a thief. When they confronted him about stealing their gold, Atkins drew his sword. The large man pointed 
at a bloodstained sword lying near Atkins. The large man claimed to have defended himself, and he regretted cutting Atkin’s throat. 

“LIER!” belted John through his tears. “My brother never carried a sword. He didn’t even know how to use one.” The large man turned 
and with a grimacing growl said, “You call Black Heart a LIAR, knave. What do you know of your brother - the thief? What do you 
know of what really happened here. Let your brother speak on his behalf.”

John looked at Atkins, whose lips moved, but could not speak, whose eyes of panic turned to those of forgiveness. “No.” John muttered 
solemnly to himself. John looked up at the physician. “He never carried a sword, nev...” The word trailed off as Atkins hand lost all strength. 
John looked at his brother’s hand and back into his brother’s eyes, but the physician was closing Atkin’s eyelids. John looked up into the sky, 
“Noooo...”

			Chapter 4 - Ship Off
			___________________

Life demands sustenance, selflessness demands compassion, honor demands sacrifice, and a lender demands payment. After Atkin’s death, 
young John and his mother began to realize that Atkin’s contribution to the family was mild, but it was invaluable. John’s mother found herself 
increasingly farther in debt. Neighbors and friends helped with all their hearts in consoling the mourners, but as time waned, so did their 
contributions. Now, the Halbred family was finding themselves in dire financial straights. John was thinking of leaving school and beginning 
full time work at the market place. But, even this fatal plan turned for the worse when John’s mother became deathly ill. Young John now had 
to support both himself and his mother, not to mention expensive medicine needed to combat her condition.
	Desperation, despair and longing brought 
John to the docks. Where, against his mother’s wishes, he took a job as a seaman. The risks were high, but so was the pay. John’s mother 
deteriorated with the days, and she begged him not to follow in his father’s fate. John’s father was lost at sea, but never was lost, a fiance’s 
love. John’s mother pleaded that she was not worth this risk at sea. She cried intensely that she could not bear the loss of her last and only son 
and family. Young John looked at his mother, and then placed a small purse of gold onto the table. With a tear in his eye, he said, “This is an 
advance of more to come mom- I must be off now.”

			Chapter 5 - Storm
			________________

Life sometimes begins before it starts. John was a witness to this. For though adventure and the unknown filled young John’s soul, his heart 
was empty and longing for the love of his mother and the companionship of home.When John would reach a port, he would send financial 
solace back to his mother. Young John hoped she was doing well, but with every thought of hope, there was the loneliness of a solitary 
unknown.

Then came a beautiful day. The warm wind filled the sails. There was singing by those who thought they could, and by those who knew they 
couldn’t. It was a day to enjoy until the wind fell silent. Upon the horizon, there came rolling darkness. The waters began to heave under 
them. John felt light sprinkles of water reach his cheek. John paid no heed to this normally pleasant sensation. The ship must be prepared for 
the oncoming storm. When the wind returned, it was cold and hard. The sprinkles of water now turned to showers. Thunder, which was 
heard in the distance, crept even closer. Young John had experience in storms. But, he was not prepared to become an innocent victim of 
nature’s vengeance. For its wrath was fully unleashed. Heavenly was a day, which ended in horror. The storm intensified. Anyone, who 
would lay claim to it or attempt to tame it, would be surely to perish.  John’s final conscious thought, on this day, was hearing his mother’s 
voice, pleading to him not to follow his father’s fate. How could he not? 

John’s body lay floating on a large piece of the ship from once he served. The warm breeze, which began yesterday morning, was also blowing 
on this day. A wind searching for a friendly sail, but not finding one. So, the wind found young John. Being a kind wind, it blew toward an 
island that it knew of. An island made of warm sandy beaches and cool comforting shade trees. This wind didn’t expect anything in return for 
its help. This wind only wished to serve.

	Chapter 6 - Native
	_________________

Young John awoke to the sounds of native drums. Blurry eyed, with eyelids heavy, John could only make out dancing shadows around the 
leaping flames of a crackling fire. John attempted to rise up, but he was too weak. Young John lay there, listening to the chants of the villagers, 
to the drums of a people, and to conversations for which he could not understand. “Where have I come to”, he asked himself. “What has 
brought me here”, he pondered. John was too weak to think. As his mind succumbed to the beat of the dance, so did his wakeful state - to rest. 
John’s dreams became that of a journey lead by a masked shaman. The shaman danced through time conjuring spirits of blue fire. The spirits 
reached out their hued hands only to be smote by the shaman’s magic. The shaman continued to dance and conjure until John’s dreams broke 
with the awakening sun. 

With the passing weeks, John discovered that the dance was for the spirits of the living. The dancers were asking the spirits to help guide 
John’s living spirit back into this world, and let him live again. The spirits heeded the call, and they brought John’s spirit back to this plane of 
existence - so, believed the villagers. John only cared that he was alive, and he was indebted to the natives with his life.  To help repay his 
debt, John would help with daily chores. After the work was done, he would re-build a signal fire on a high hill. When John began learning a 
few of the villagers words, the elders suggested that their home was his home. John was grateful for all they had done. He conveyed to the 
elders that they were his friends, but his home was with his family across the sea. The elders understood, and they asked the young boys of the 
village to help John with his signal fire. The elders believed, that to travel across the sea, a Great Spirit would need to be summoned, and a 
Great Spirit needed a great fire.

               			 Chapter 7 - Rescue
                			  _________________

A young native boy ran into the village yelling frantically. The boy ran to young John, looked into his eyes, turned, and pointed to the beach. 
The only word John understood was “boat”. Young John’s eyes widened with excitement. John bolted toward the beach. The villagers ran 
behind hollering with joy and expectations. Just before John reached the beach, he heard a bell sound from a ship offshore. John ran faster. 
When John reached the beach, a dinghy was about to come ashore. In the small boat, there were two rowers and a stern figure, straight of 
face and hard of hands. It was the Captain.

When the Captain reached the shore, he walked upright and stiff toward John.  John, who was incredibly overjoyed at his rescue, leaped into 
the Captain’s arms and hugged him. “Thank you for beckoning to my call. I was so hopeful, and now you are here. Bless you. Bless...” The 
Captain’s deep hollow voice interrupted John’s joyous sentiments. “Yes, Yes...Now...Now enough of this young lad.” The Captain’s face 
cracked but the briefest of smiles. “I have a schedule to keep. Now get the rest of your party, and we shall be off.” John told the Captain he 
was the only survivor. The Captain, unmoved by this news, turned and walked toward the small boat. “Then we be off now, young man.”

John turned to the villagers and said his last good-byes. An elder invited John and his new shipmates to stay and celebrate this wonderful 
occasion. The Captain, understanding the elder, turned and looked at John. “I must be leaving, NOW! I have no time to dawdle.” John, 
not wanting to be left behind, waved goodbye to the villagers and quickly got into the dinghy, then sat next to the Captain. As the two men 
rowed toward the ship offshore, John continued to wave excitedly. Then, an elder shouted over the incoming surf, ”May the living spirits 
keep you in their hearts”, and with that, the villagers waved their friend good-bye.

                   		 Chapter 8 - Pirates
	     		 _________________

Captain Clifford Clemson stood high on the bow of the Miss Marie, hard and rigid he was, issuing orders to the men. The crew followed their 
orders without question. Young John saw the Captain as a man with confidence and control - a true leader of men. 

The Captain’s hard exterior masked his knowing heart of compassion. As Captain Clemson watched John perform his duties on deck, the 
Captain did not see a seaman, but he did see a young man with character, a young man with a possible future, a boy who reminded him of his 
young lost son. The Captain’s old memories of his wife and son falling to disease had yet to fall by the way side. So, when John told the 
Captain of his mother’s condition, the Captain offered to help John. In return, John would be required to help the Captain with the 
navigational chores. John said he knew nothing of navigation. Captain Clemson asked John if he was willing to learn. Young John, thrilled by 
the offer, boisterously accepted his new post.

Early in John’s apprenticeship, he learned the Captain was on an important mission for the King. A King’s letter informed the Captain, that 
pirates had kidnapped his brother’s daughter and were demanding payment for her life. The King further stressed that the ransom be returned 
at all costs. The Kings words were, “This brat isn’t worth a toad, but an example must be made of these pirates.” The King pledged his 
confidence in Captain Clemson for his ability to act independently and with discretion.  

The Captain reached the rendezvous point during a new moon. The pirate’s fires could be seen on shore. The Captain’s crew slipped ashore, 
and they slew the unknowing pirates. Captain Clemson had rescued the girl, but days after, while in port, the Captain was informed of a 
pirate uprising.  The pirate community was gathering in force to hunt Captain Clemson down to reclaim the gold, which was rightfully theirs. 
The Captain began evasive maneuvers through shallow reefs and treacherous waters to help evade the searching pirates. It was during one of 
these maneuvers in uncharted territory, that John’s signal fire was seen. Young John was now helping Captain Clemson and its crew run for 
its life. 

Eventually, the Captain reached the inevitable point of exposing himself in order to cross the sea for home. The wind was right. The time was 
right. The risk had to be taken. After only one day in their vulnerable state, a call from the crow’s nest was heard, “Ship a stern, Ship a 
stern.” The Captain’s telescopic eyepiece revealed what flew at the mast - the skull and cross bones. 

The pirate ship was alone, but it was small and swift. If the Captain could get a direct hit from his hefty canons, the chase would be over 
quickly. The pirate ship’s Captain knew of his vulnerability, and he continued to tack and close the distance, while keeping at an off angle from 
a possible strike. When the two ships came to close for canon balls, each changed to a shrapnel fodder.  As the pirate ship came along side its 
victim, it fired its canons. Grappling hooks were then tossed. Captain Clemson ordered his cannons to fire. Hot shrapnel ripped into soft flesh 
with a brief hiss and a scream of agony. The pirates continued to board, undeterred and unrelenting, hoping for gold’s glory.

Young John, who was ordered to stay below deck, heard the yells of bloodthirsty pirates, the clang of cold steel and the screams of the dying. 
John’s curiosity forced him to peer above and witness the action. It was chaos. He looked for Captain Clemson, but could not see him. As his 
eyes roamed, John’s attention began to focus on one man. It was a large man. It was Black Heart. Black Heart was battling with a 
crewman, and using his large bulk, he was about to strike the man down. John didn’t see a crewman. Young John saw his brother - Atkins. 
“No...not again...” John had to save his brother’s ghost. A sword lay nearby. John leaped out from his hiding spot, grabbed the sword, and 
ran toward Black Heart yelling, “LET MY BROTHER BE!” Black Heart turned to his left, and only saw a sword about to 
penetrate his gullet. Using his left hand, Black Heart managed to deflect the sword from his large belly, only for the sword to enter into his 
left thigh. Black Heart blasted a deafening yell. John’s shock of his action made him paralyzed. He could only look up at the grotesque and 
contorted face of his nemesis. Black Heart pulled the sword out of his thigh with his left hand. Now, with a sword in each hand, Black 
Heart moved to strike this defenseless knave down to die in his own blood. Black Heart raised his sword and smiled.

Young John only heard a clang of steel upon steel, as a body pushed him away and down to a body laden deck. John looked up in surprise, and 
saw Captain Clemson fighting Black Heart. John watched as Black Heart again attempted to use his size for victory, but Captain Clemson 
didn’t use size, nor did he use strength or power. Captain Clemson strength was balance, quickness and skill. The Captain’s feet and blade 
danced before Black Heart. The Captain thwarted blow after blow, only to riposte with stunning accuracy. Black Heart found himself being 
sliced and cut to no end. The Captain, seeing his opportunity, positioned himself to finish off this brute of a pirate. Black Heart wasted no time 
dropping his sword and jumping overboard in hopes to fight another day. The Captain looked at John. “I must teach you how to fight”. John 
only smiled. Captain Clemson’s face then turned stern. “Now, get below.” Young John obeyed, and obeyed quickly. The Captain’s crew were 
battled veterans, and they eventually gained the upper hand over the pirates who had boarded. The Captain of the pirate ship saw a battle lost, 
and he issued the order to cut away. As the pirate ship quickly drifted away, the pirates left on the Miss Marie either dropped their weapons 
or jumped overboard hoping to receive a life line from their shipmates - none was given. 

After a few days, it was evident that Captain Clemson had finally evaded all the pirates. The Captain began to relax and helped John with 
the skills of fighting and the knowledge of sailing. During one tutoring session, John mentioned that the King would be happy with the 
Captain’s success. The Captain informed Young John, that the King would neither be happy or pleased, for my success was expected. Young 
John then wondered about his success. John asked himself if he could have the control over his life that the Captain had over his. John spent 
the following weeks hoping to attain a future. A future he could share with his mother, back home.

			Chapter 9 - See Her
			__________________

With each sunrise, there is rising opportunity. With each conscript of fate, there is sent a choice. For destiny will befall the choice of 
opportunity.

John rode his horse along the winding country road. The cool gray air was full of mist, and the hedges dripped with a wet accumulation. 
John was only a half days ride from Captain Clemson’s manor, and he was looking forward to the coming home party. The party was just a 
small gathering of the Captain’s friends. A party that John had been given for the last 3 years, including this one. Everyone would ask him 
about life at the military school. John would inform them of the dull drama that is the academy - mostly uneventful, mostly study. John 
eagerly anticipated his graduation next year, and then to prove his worth in battle, to lead men into an engagement, and controlling the field to 
victory. John wished for medals to be bestowed to his name for recognition as a master of fate. Of course, Captain Clemson would always 
remind him of the balance of reality and the genius of modesty. John would always heed the Captain’s words, because Captain Clemson was a 
mentor and friend.

Back when John was serving under Captain Clemson on the Miss Marie, the Captain promised to take John back home. When John 
reached his homeport, he rushed to his mother’s house. Captain Clemson saw John return to the ship only a few minutes later with head hung 
low and a tear in his eye. John’s mother had passed away only a few months ago. Now, a young man with promise was alone and without 
course. Captain Clemson asked young John to go with him to his manor and be his prodigy student.  John accepted the Captain’s kindness 
without reservation. In the years that followed, John worked at study and knowledge in order to design fate.

When John desired to enter higher education, Captain Clemson, being a graduate of Briston Academy, offered to get John a hearing at this 
highly acclaimed institution. John chose the academy as his future, and he succeeded in obtaining access. Once John was accepted into the 
academy, Captain Clemson desired John to focus on naval studies, but John wished to repay his mother’s promise to avoid the sea. John took 
up land based tactics. Captain Clemson supported John fully.

The home coming party was casual, being full of frolic and laughter. Deceit, trickery and fun were part the day for the joke players. The 
victim of pranks and folly was wary and always suspecting. Of course, at any good party, everyone found a role as jokester or victim, during 
the course of the day. Overall, fun and contentment were had by all. Toward the end of the party, John was informed that the Lynden’s were 
having a great Ball at their estate in a few weeks. John was asked if he would be able to attend. John had to leave for the academy in two 
months time and replied that he could probably make the event. Though John was not an avid socialite, he saw the opportunity to practice his 
social skills.
          		 __________________________________

“Where is MY right to choose MY own will? Why must you dictate my future? You have no right!” Mary Lynden shouted in pleading anger. 
The servants in nearby rooms stopped their chores and listened intently.

“I have every right, for I am your father!”, George Lynden shouted back defensively. Both Mary and her father stood defiantly, then 
George sat down to collect his emotions. “You are my daughter, and you will act as such. Did your tutors teach you nothing of place?” 
George’s face became stern and resolute. “And your place is at my bidding.”

Eleanor Lynden, sitting patiently next to her husband George, tried to calm the situation. “Please, let us refrain ourselves. This can all be 
worked out.”

Mary sat in a chair across from her parents and looked softly at her mother. “Mother, I can’t...I will not marry a man such as Richard 
Caxton.”

George stated matter-of-factly, “The marriage has been pre-arranged for years. It is your duty to marry Richard. Otherwise, our family 
name will fall in disgrace within the aristocracy.”

“I care not about social vermin”, Mary snapped to her father. George’s eyes began to bulge with fury. His face turning blood red.

Eleanor’s voice, again, spoke to diffuse the tension, “Mary, this Richard comes from a noble family. He is seen in very high regard among all 
that speak of him. When calling on you, hasn’t Richard always been the gentleman?” Mary was about to reply, but Eleanor continued, 
“Richards peers respect him, and he has a blood line dating back many generations. Any woman would look at Richard as an opportunity.”

Mary retorted sarcastically, “The opportunity to live my life, wielding my power behind closed doors, and begging for pocket change to 
further my needs. I wish to be loved, and to love, so that my relationship can be one of equality - unlike what you have mother.”

“How dare you speak of your mother in that way!” George proclaimed, about to rise from his chair. Eleanor only sagged into the deep 
recesses of the chair’s cracks.

Mary looked boldly into her father’s eyes, “I speak the truth. Without love, I would live only as a shell - hollow and alone. I will not live the 
life that mom has. I want more for myself than social esteem and swindling power. “ Mary took a quick breath. “Secondly, this Richard is 
but a scheming villain. He uses his social dominance over others to break their will. I have also heard, that Richard rampaged onto his own 
people and ravished them to no end. Is this the man you wish me to marry?”

George stood tall and menacing. His hands gestured with compassion to Mary. “These are biased and disclaimed rumors. Nothing of the sort 
has ever happened. The Caxton family is seen in the highest regard, and I will not hear of slanderous accusations in my presence to such a 
noble family.” George pointed at Mary authoritatively, “You WILL marry Richard Caxton, and I WILL have no more of this obstinacy 
on your part. This marriage is what is best for our families, and you WILL do what is best for us all. The engagement WILL be announced 
at the Ball.” George looked at his wife, “This discussion is over.” Mary’s father walked out of the room.

Mary looked at her mother. Eleanor’s head was hung low as she raised and followed her husband out of the room. Mary stood, sober in 
thought. Mary was hurting deeply inside, but she held back the tears. It wasn’t until she passed the many rooms to her bedroom and locked the 
door, did Mary unleash her weeping rage into a soft-willing pillow. Maybe the locked door would keep Mary’s future at bay, at least for 
awhile.
            		 ________________________________________

The Lynden Ball was a major social event of the year. For some, it was a place to meet old and new business contacts. For others, it was a 
place to learn about the affairs of others. But for many, the Ball was a place to be drenched in their own statures. When Richard Caxton 
arrived with his father Seymore and his mother Hortense, Richard spoke briefly to Mr. Lynden, and then went to seek out Mary Lynden - 
Richard’s future bride.

Richard found Mary and pulled her aside abruptly, “Your father has told me that you are having reservations of our engagement. You realize 
this marriage is what is best for our families - do you not?” Richard expected agreement.

Mary looked at Richard’s outwardly show of confidence as arrogance and conceit. “I will not marry someone I do not love.”

Smugness swept over Richard’s face, “LOVE? Please, how naive. This marriage is not about love. It is about our family’s future. You 
can not deny our future heritage because of LOVE. You can not deny our name among a king’s future council.”

Mary retorted, “You mean, I can not deny YOU of future power over my families lands and all those who live on it.”

Richard’s voice turned contemptuous, “MY duty is to rule the governed. Your duty is to produce an heir. After your performance, you may 
go and find a love, behind closed doors. I can guarantee you, I will.”

“You disgust me.” Mary turned and walked away. Richard only smiled and laughed aloud for others to hear.

As Mary walked away, Captain Clemson and John had arrived and were being announced. Mary, not having heard of John Halbred, 
raised her head to see the new face. When Mary saw John dressed in his military regalia, sharp and distinct, her face lit up with excitement. 

The Captain and John began to speak socially among a small group, while Mary bounced from group to group, edging ever closer to John. 
John, doing his best to show interest in the conversation, felt his eyes wander amongst the crowd. John saw Mary talking to a few people, and 
Mary decided to checkup on John’s position. When Mary saw John looking at her, Mary’s face blushed and turned quickly back. Mary felt 
as if she had been caught doing something mischievous. But, even though she felt a little embarrassed for herself, having been tracking this 
gentleman and then being seen in the act, Mary could not resist peeking over her shoulder and, yet again, see what John was doing. When 
Mary looked over her shoulder, John was standing right beside her.

John introduced himself, “My Lady Lynden, I am John Halbred.” Mary gave him her hand. “I believe the first Waltz of the evening is 
about to begin. Perchance, your card not being full, may I be of service?” 

Mary beamed a glorious smile, “You may.” Mary and John walked to the dance floor with her arm wrapped around his stiff military sleeve. 
They embraced for the waltz. Their eyes touched with anticipation. Their hearts fluttered exhaustively. Let love’s dance begin.
           		 ________________________________________

A glance at a lifetime, a look toward the future, a love binding to a wayward soul, this and more were felt by Mary and John as they danced 
into love’s oblivion. Richard saw Mary with John, but Richard paid no heed to her indiscreet infatuation. Nor, did anyone else sense love’s 
desire. When Mary and John slipped to a darkly lit balcony, hidden away from all observers, only one recognized the pertinent event - 
Mary’s mother, Eleanor. Mary and John continued their correspondence in the soft moonlit night. Time waned as the two became lost in 
rapture. But a large, celebrated cheer erupting from the main hall broke their concentration on each other. 

Mary turned and looked through the shadowed arched doorway into the candlelit hall full of supporting patrons. A shallow amber glow 
exposed Mary’s distressed frown, “I believe my engagement has just been announced.”

 Seymore and Richard Caxton and George Lynden were shaking hands on their new arrangement. Other heads of house came up to them 
and congratulated the upcoming union hoping to be pawns for the newly formed alliance.
 
John moved to Mary’s side to console her, “They don’t seem to understand the word NO. Do they?” Mary continued to look at the crowd 
with contempt.  John tried to make her smile, “Given the excitement of Richard and George on this occasion, maybe it is they who are to be 
married. I wonder if Richard will be wearing white?”

Mary laughed slightly then she became serious, “If that were only true.” Mary’s thoughts moved inward. She then became confiding, “If that 
were true, my life would be so much simplier. But, what can they do, when the bride doesn’t show up at the wedding?” Mary smiled at the 
idea.

John wasn’t smiling, “Did you hear of Mrs. Annabelle Suxton?”

Mary thought back, “Yes, she married that much older man. Her son is now a duke.”

“Yes, but her death was not what was reported.”

Mary looked at John with curious eyes, “No? I was told she died of some disease.”

John relayed the truth. “I’m afraid her death was quite tragic, unlike the events reported by her husband and doctor - even the church. 
Captain Clemson told me she was forced to marry Mr. Suxton, who was nearly three times her age. So, he could beckon for the position of 
duke. The young girl was, at first, afraid of such an arrangement, but the parents belayed her fears. Eventually, the young Annabelle trusted 
the arrangement. After the marriage, Mr. Suxton forced himself upon her in order to create a male heir. Annabelle, being young, innocent 
and naive was devastated by such treatment. Tragically, after two daughters, she finally had a boy. Three weeks after the boy’s delivery, she 
committed suicide.”

Mary became sorrowful. A small tear began to run down her sturdy cheek. John reached up and wiped the warm tear away.

“Mary, you must not underestimate your families persuasive powers - especially with the church. I realize you want to stand on your own. 
But life is easier when you can help yourself with those who are willing to help you. These allies can also give you hope in times of despair.”

Mary turned and looked at John,”Are you offering your services.”

John smiled, “I offer you my heart, Lady Lynden. I offer you all that I am and all that I can be. But if you do not wish to pursue me in 
kind, I will understand.” John looked away.

Mary took John’s hand. The clasping of hands bandaged the wounds of torment. John turned. Mary was looking at the hand she was holding, 
and said,”My wish...”. Her head tilted slightly upward and looked at the insignias on John’s military dress jacket, and continued,”is to...” 
Mary looked into John’s soft eyes, full of compassion and giving. John saw Mary’s smile, which turned this wonderful romantic night into a 
morning bursting with the sunrise of hope. 

“...Pursue.”
			Chapter 10 - Snow Bell
			_____________________

To face your demons, to stand for your vows, to show your true noble spirit is indeed honorable. But, if the demons control the powers of 
fate, honor will end in defeat.

The sky was blue. The sun was warming on exposed cheeks. A thick blanket of snow lay upon the contently rolling hills. What a perfect 
winter day for a sleigh ride - the jingle of bells, the muffled beat of horse hoofs, the warmth of a love cuddling next to you. Let the days troubles 
lose their way in the brisk breeze blowing across the horse’s mane. Let only love’s desire fill the minds of serenity. 

When Mary and John returned from their placid getaway to Captain Clemon’s estate, the Captain had warm drinks awaiting the bundled up 
couple. John disrobed his casual wear and sat down next a roaring fire in the study, then sipped his hot drink with a sigh. With Mary’s sip 
came an, “ooh”, as goose bumps tickled her senses.

Over the last few months, and after many a letter and short rendezvous, Mary and John had fallen deeply in love, but Mary’s business 
engagement to Richard Caxton was preventing John from asking Mary for her hand in matrimony. The Captain asked the couple of their 
future plans. John expressed his desire to confront Mary and Richard’s parents openly about his love for Mary. John and Mary hoped they 
could convince the families to dissolve Richard’s engagement to Mary - for love’s sake.

The Captain’s face frowned in dismay. He told Mary and John that confronting the families openly would lead to disaster. The Captain 
described methods of deceit and trickery the families could enact in order to separate Mary from John. Many methods ended in John’s life 
long imprisonment or death by beheading. The Captain pleaded with the couple that a true love was worth living for, but not worth dying for. 
Mary and John looked at each other with consternation. 

The Captain then offered the solution of courtly love. The Captain explained that courtly love would require Richard Caxton to wed Mary, 
and Mary would also be obligated to produce a new heir to the Caxton holdings. But, after the heir was produced, John would be allowed to 
continue his relationship with Mary, but it would have to be on a secretive basis. Of course, if the relationship became public, they would both 
be punished, possibly exiled, maybe even executed.

Mary sat up straight, rigid and with mighty resolve said, “NO! This I can not live with. I will not satisfy an immoral union so that I may 
have an adulterous affair.”

John looked at Captain Clemson and spoke with soft agreement, “I could never allow Mary’s honor to be violated in this way.” John stood 
and took Mary’s hand. “Sneaking behind secretive doors are for those who wish to be society’s prisoners. Mary and I have nothing to hide 
from ourselves nor anybody else.” Mary nodded in agreement. 

Mary looked at John, “I feel we are left with only one recourse.” John, somewhat forlorn, shook his head negatively. John walked over to a 
nearby table to pour himself something warm to drink.

		   	Chapter 11 - March
		  	_________________

George Lynden, Mary’s father, walked through the high double doors into Seymore Claxton’s den. Sitting confidently in an overstuffed 
leather chair was Seymour, who rose to greet George. 

“Your request for a meeting sounded urgent.” Seymore said plain of face.

George Lynden said nothing. He only handed Mr. Claxton letters of correspondence between Mary and John.  Seymore flipped through a 
few of the letters, examining them only briefly. Seymore’s face remained plain and unmoved. “What is so urgent about this affair? Is this 
John Halbred a threat?”

George replied with some intensity, “It isn’t Mr. Halbred I’m concerned about. It’s my daughter. If you read further in the letters, you’ll 
see that Mary is trying to convince John to elope.”

Seymore’s eyes widened, thought for a moment, then retained his presence. “That can not be allowed to happen.” Seymore took a seat in his 
chair.

George stated his agenda, “That is why I am here. Mr. Halbred is graduating from Briston Military Academy next month. If you could 
manage a commission for him in the war waging in the south, it will keep these two separate and give us time to consummate the marriage.”

“What of Mr. Halbred’s death in battle?” Seymore subtly implied.

George shook his head adamantly, “That would be unfortunate. I know my daughter. Given the passion she shows for Mr. Halbred, I 
believe her response to his death would be fatal for us.”

“Then we shall keep Mr. Halbred from harms way.”

“This would be best.”

Seymore slowly raised from his chair. “Now, what of your progress with the church?”

George said confidently, “I am very close. We should manage a consensus during Mr. Halbred’s absence.” George retorted with a question 
of his own, “And, is Richard still pliable and willing.”

Seymore’s face turned to disappointment, “George, my son is an incompetent arrogant fool. He will do what I tell him. Fortunately, for us, 
his role is one we can depend on.” Seymore walked over to a cart and poured two glasses of brandy. Seymore handed one to George and 
toasted, “ To the heir of our future king.” The glasses touched with a ping.

George replied, “Long live the king’s overseers.” Both smiled and lightly chuckled as the brandy slid down their wanting throats.
              		________________________________________

Life is malleable - an existence formed by goals and achievements. With aimlessness comes unexpected desolation. To build, to form, to 
conceive the progeny of fate is to lead. 

From guidance within and help from a few, John Halbred had reached the stepping stone of a hopeful future. John’s graduation from the 
Briston Military Academy was full of excitement, exhilaration and expectation. John was even more over joyous in the moment of his 
commencement, because John had been the first in his class to receive a commission. In only a weeks time, John would be leading men into 
battle for the greater glory of his own future.

Mary and Captain Clemson were at the graduation ceremony. The Captain was full of pride, and upon seeing John’s excitement, memories 
of the energetic young boy he first met on a far away island, brought a happy tear to the Captain’s hard wrinkled eye. Mary was happy for 
John, but anxious and fearful in uncertainty.

On the day of John’s departure to the southern front, Mary bid him a tearful farewell. John embraced his love and promised to write often. 
John also beckoned Mary to find shelter with Captain Clemson if she felt the conspirators, wanting her to marry Richard, trapped her to a 
point without recourse.

“Perhaps,” John said hopefully, “if my accomplishments go well, my worth will allow your parents blessing for our union.”

Mary held John tightly, not wanting to let go of her refuge. But time weakened Mary’s physical bond, and John’s waving hand was lost 
among the green lush rolling hills his horse traversed. Mary held the sight of John until the final moment. Still she could not let go. Where can 
the pain go but into deep sorrow. Why does the soft breeze echo the words of the beloved, “I love you.”

	     		Chapter 12 - Back Home
	   		_______________________

John Halbred stood on a baron hill overlooking the remnants of the battlefield. This battle ended without heroes, without glory, without 
celebration. John could feel the dead souls of the fallen reaching for salvation. The anguish and pain of the wounded, of the dismembered, of 
the bloody, wailed through out John’s disappointment. John’s horse, the third in just two weeks, was stationed obediently alongside its new 
master.

The subsequent truce from the battle was a tormented relief from further carnage. John wished for the success of diplomacy and for the end of 
a calamity that was his commission.

John’s first disillusionment came upon learning that the unit he was about to lead was only a reserve unit - a unit unlikely to be called to the 
battle in the south. When John inspected the unit, he found them to be undisciplined, unorganized, and without motivation. Then came 
unexpected disaster. Shortly after the war began in the south, former friends and allies in the east had entered the war aligning with the enemy 
in the south. 

What was to be a decisive victory, full of tales of honor, had become a bloody stalemate. John’s unit was rushed to the east front to fight 
former allies. As the battles ensued, it seemed neither side wished to fight one another. This only exacerbated the horror of the war. The 
strong were dying to allow kings to extort their will on each other.

The pounding of hoofs vibrated through the ground behind John. He turned to see an exhausted messenger and mount who had been riding 
hard and fast. The messenger reined in the galloping horse, which stopped before John. Dismounting, the messenger announced himself and 
handed a sealed letter to John. The seal had the signature of Captain Clemson. John quickly broke the seal and began to read the tersely 
written letter.

	“To my dearest friend Mr. John Halbred. 

	Please forgive my directness, but time is of the essence. The church has publicly dec	lared Lady Mary Lynden’s hand in 
marriage to Sir Richard Caxton. The wedding 	date will most likely have been announced by the time you read this letter. I fear a 
	quick 	fastidious resolution on their part concerning this event. 

	Lady Lynden has found her way at my side. I have been called on to release Lady 	Lynden 	to her father. I can only delay 
briefly the inevitable. Your resolution in this 	matter is 	needed urgently. May I conclude by stating my belief that upon the fields of 
	honor, 	may you defeat your enemy.
				Your confidant,
				Captain Clifford Clemson.”

After John read the letter, he held it in his hand, hesitated, crumpled the letter into his fist, and tossed it toward the battlefield. The balled up 
letter flew only a few feet away landing on a blood stained mound of grass slowly unfolding in resurrection. John mounted his horse pulling 
back hard on the reins. The steed reared back and turned to the west.

“Sir, will there be a reply?” The messenger inquired. 

John replied with utmost conviction as his horse began to race away, “The reply I shall deliver, my dear corporal, shall be that of my 
person!”

“But, Sir, what if the cease fire is lifted in your absence?”, the messenger yelled for a response, “Sir?”

There was no response because there was no care. The drum of the hoof beats, the snorting breath of the beast pointed the destination of 
John’s consciousness - a destination known but a resolution uncertain.
          		_____________________________________________

Through the sleeting rain, the dawning of mist and the darkness of night rode John Halbred - control must make reality. In a determined 
mind comes the focus of a goal. Undaunted, unrelenting, all reason is but the accomplishment of duty - never ceasing, never ending, always 
enduring, always as ever full of hope.
          		_____________________________________________

When John reached the grounds of Captain Clemson, the rain was incessant. John was drenched through to cold damp skin - drained and 
worn. Nothing was of matter. All focus was acute. Aware of a love that waited for his coming, a love that saw his arrival, a love running in 
the pouring rain to embrace the future. Let not love be extinguished by the compassion of self prophecy. 

John warmed himself by the fire and relaxed contently in a conforming leather chair. Captain Clifford sat silently across from John. Mary 
sat next to John holding his hand. John looked at the Captain. Mary saw a mental dialog being exchanged between the two. Mary interrupted 
their telepathy by asking what they were conspiring. John looked at Mary and hesitated. Taking a deep breath, John replied plainly but softly, 
“My dear, your honor has been defamed. It is my duty as your defender to seek satisfaction from those who have disgraced you.” 

Mary’s heart sank upon the words, “No. I...what if you were killed...I...I need you John. I want to be with you.” Mary held John’s hand 
ever so tightly and stared into the dancing flames of the fire. “We can still elope...yes...we are here together. We have opportunity. We could 
leave tonight John. We could... John?” Mary turned to John who was maintaining his convictions. Mary’s voice raised in anguish, “John, 
I can’t let you do this. I want us to always be together...don’t jeopardize what we have just to satisfy honor. “

John looked deeply into Mary’s eyes and replied with a warm heart, “Mary, on this, you must trust me. Whether in death or in life, we will 
always be together. What I do is best for our future, that I am convinced.”

John looked at Captain Clemson, “Sir, it would be of great service to me if you would elect to be my second in this matter.”

Captain Clemson leaned to the front of his chair, and hard of voice replied, “It would be an honor to be of service to you, John. I shall make 
the arrangements.”

Mary recognized the benefits if John was victorious, but what would her life be in defeat.
          	_____________________________________________

The warmth of the morning sunlight had broken a wispy fog into patchy remnants, which lingered lightly above the wet grass in a calm breeze. 
A small forest anchored on a hill nearby gave way to an opening, where the two parties faced on the field of honor. The dawn’s rays glinted 
off the shinny barrels of the pistols held comfortably in a red felted box.

John Halbred selected the top pistol. Richard Caxton took the lonely bottom. John checked the mechanisms of the gun for imperfections or 
trickery. Satisfied, John handed the pistol to Captain Clemson, who doubled checked the gun’s integrity, nodded his approval and handed the 
pistol back to John for loading.

Mary came over to John. She watched John’s hands work fluidly, instinctively, habitually, while performing an act repeated many times 
over. It gave her confidence. When Mary looked over at Richard, she saw a pistol being loaded in a like manner. Her fears would not 
subside.

“I’m scared John.” Mary reached out to an open hand.

“Everyone here should have concern. But, neither you nor I should have doubts. We must focus on the future that lies before us.”

Mary’s lips clenched in resolve, “I am with you always.” John smiled in comfort.

The mediator asked if the two gentlemen were ready and willing. They both confirmed their readiness. Richard Caxton and John Halbred 
positioned themselves back to back with pistols raised. Richard took the opportunity to boost his ego and moral, “Interloper, you shall meddle 
in my family’s affairs no more. Let my wedding night be one of dominance over your memory.”” John ignored such caddish remarks, looked 
at Mary, smiled and winked. Mary’s confidence rose once again.

The mediator began to chant the paces, “One-two-three...” John felt the morning rays warm his cheek. John relaxed. “Four-five-six...” 
Richard took deep long breaths trying to prepare himself. “Seven-eight-nine...” Mary wanted to scream with anxiety. She wanted the 
madness to stop, but the nightmare had to end. Mary’s heart began to race - fists clutched tightly together - breath became short. Mary looked 
up into a morning sky and prayed toward the heavens - her breath held on trust.

“Ten.”

Both men swung around, aimed and fired. The two shots rang out nearly simultaneously. Short echoes reverberated through the hills. Both 
Richard and John fell where they had stood. Mary screamed. The Captain ran to where John lay. Richard’s second rushed to his 
compatriot. Mary followed the Captain hoping for John’s survival. Both men were alive, but both were severely wounded. The wounded 
men were lifted into nearby carriages to seek medical assistance.

A loud voice bellowed beyond a nearby hill, “Stop, you must stop!” The Captain turned to see a large man riding a tall black steed. It was 
Richards father along with a small escort. The men quickly reached the scene, dismounted, and helped get Richard into the carriage. The 
Captain and Mary hastened away. They heard Richard’s father screaming in rage, “You fool. What have you done? You selfish brat. How 
could you dare have the arrogance to betray me? My plans...what of them...you fool...””
           		_____________________________________________

Sorrow’s loneliness is not to be helpless. To weep is to search for an inner self - dive deep into misery’s abyss to find the strength of love. 

Three days had passed since John Halbred’s confrontation with Richard Caxton. Mary, kneeling next to John’s bedside, her hand holding a 
cold damp cloth, her head lying on John’s warm chest, had fallen asleep as fatigue filled her tired and empty body. 

John was aware to only the subconscious - his mind floating within only daydreams - his body, feverish and hot, working to fight off an 
infection running rampant throughout - his skin covered in cold clothes.

Mary’s mother walked through the doorway. She saw Mary’s head lying blissfully on John’s chest. Eleanor walked over to Mary and shook 
her gently awake. “Mary...Mary you must get some sleep. I will take care of John. Please, my dear. You need rest.”

Mary half asleep resisted fatigue, “No...I...I need to be with John.”

Captain Clemson had walked in the room behind Eleanor replied, “And John needs you to be attentive, young lady.”

Mary yielded wearily, “Yes...But only for a while.” Before leaving, Mary raised John’s hand and kissed his hot hand with dry lips. Mary 
then drifted out of the room - her feet heavy and dragging. 

Eleanor went over to a basin filled with cool well water. She dipped a nearby cloth into the basin, wrung out the cloth, removed a damp but 
warm cloth from John’s forehead, and replaced it with the cool tempering cloth. Eleanor began to repeat the motion for the other cloths on 
John’s arms and chest. Eleanor grimaced, “His fever is worse.”

Captain Clemson looked discouraged. “The doctor fears that if the fever gets any worse. His body will begin to shut down and give way to 
death. The next few hours are critical. We must do what we can.”

Eleanor sensed the Captain’s unease and tried to comfort him, “John is strong of heart. I know he will find the strength to recover.” Eleanor 
reflected on what she had said. “If I only had his strength, maybe I could have prevented this tragedy.”” Eleanor’s head bent down in 
disappointment.

The Captain reached a firm hand out and grabbed Eleanor’s shoulder with confidence, ”Your strength of character shows by being here with 
your daughter and tending to the one she loves. Your acts of the past can be forgiven with the deeds of the future.” Eleanor turned her head 
and looked at the stern Captain and felt her spirits rise. The Captain continued, “Now, if only your husband could understand this. Then...” 

Eleanor interrupted, “He only understands his desire for power. I can only have hope for Mary. She is what matters to me,” Eleanor 
looked at John, “and those she cares for.”

Captain Clemson walked over to the basin, picked it up, and left to refill it with cold water.

A few hours later, Mary walked into John’s room - her eyes red, but her face refreshed. Eleanor was ringing out another warm damp cloth. 

“Mom, how is he?”, Mary asked with concern.

Eleanor turned and looked at her daughter with a smile, “You are looking better, my dear.”

“I feel a little better. I had something to eat as well.” There was little emotion on Mary’s face.

Eleanor continued to be appraising. “That’s very good. You must keep your energy up. You can’t...”

Mary interrupted, “Mom? How is he?””

Eleanor’s smile faded, “His condition hasn’t changed, but it hasn’t gotten any worse either - that is a good sign.” Eleanor tried to relay a 
positive smile. Mary didn’t respond. Eleanor thought Mary might still be tired, and hoped Mary wasn’t feeling despair. “Why don’t you ring 
these cloths while I get more well water?” Mary walked over to a short table. Eleanor picked up a basin and walked toward the door.

“Mom?”

“Yes?” Eleanor turned to face her daughter.

“I want to thank you for coming here and helping us. Being here doesn’t help with your relationship with father.”

Eleanor responded, “No. But, remember when you were told the church had sanctioned your marriage with Richard, you said you would 
run away, and so, your father locked you in your room?”

“Yes.”

“Well, when I let you out of your room to come here, that didn’t go well with your father either.” Eleanor smiled. Mary grinned. “Now, 
this basin is getting heavy, and I need to refill it.” Eleanor turned and walked out of the room. Mary’s grin waned as her attention turned to 
John.

The coolness of the coming night had no affect upon the heat raging within John’s body. Mary had been tending to John for hours. She was 
beginning to reach exhaustion again. Mary sat on the edge of the bed for relief. With her head bowed down, her arms laying gently on her lap, 
and her back to John, Mary spoke to battle her fatigue and anguish, “John if only you could hear me. I don’t know what you’re going through 
or what you’re thinking, but I am here for you. I don’t want us to end. We are just beginning. I need you, and I want to be with you. 
Please...John,” tears began to run down Mary’s face, “don’t let go, don’t let our love die.””

A cooling hand slowly raised and eased itself to rest on Mary’s arm. Mary felt a cool touch. She turned to see John’s eyes gleaming at her 
tired face. John released the words that took her breath away, “Never...we shall be together...always.” 

Mary screamed with joy, “John!” Mary leaned over and hugged John with all her might. “Oh, John...thank the heavens.” Mary released 
John from her hold and kissed him. With all the strength John could muster, he raised his arms and gently pushed himself away from Mary. 
John spoke with a weak voice but the tone was very serious, “What of Richard?”

Mary still excited replied, “Oh, he died the day after the duel. The doctors said they could not stop the internal hemorrhage.” Mary pushed 
through John’s arms and hugged him again. “Oh John, I am so happy.” John showed no emotion to this news for there was no victory in 
Richards death, only a step to wield destiny.

John once again gently pushed himself away again and took Mary’s hand. John’s tone remained thoughtful for now his true intentions could be 
faithfully declared, “Lady Mary Lynden...my love for you lies in the unconquerable lands of forever. Never in my life have I felt so much 
love and compassion. Never could dreams live without you. I give you my heart. I give you my fate. I give you my soul. I give you time. All 
that I ask in return is.” Mary began to cry. A tear ran down John’s cheek. “Will you marry me?”

	          		Chapter 13 - End
		  	________________

The rays of the mid-morning sun pierced the picturesque stain glass of the church, allowing multi-hued shadows to lay upon the patrons 
inside. A cleansing rain the night before filled the mid-morning air with dewy freshness, and the cool air was breathed in deeply with 
anticipation. Children yapped and adults chattered - everyone in their Sunday’s best.

A choir began to sing, softly, faintly. The event was to begin, and a quiet hush fell upon the crowd. A clergyman, dressed in finery robes, 
appeared through a doorway, walked between an organist and the choir, and stood behind a pedestal. The clergyman opened a book and laid it 
upon the flat angled surface before him. The choir increased its volume, ever so slightly.

Two small children, a girl on the left and a boy on the right, emerged within a large entryway behind the patrons. The handsomely dressed 
children proceeded to walk down an isle toward the clergyman. Side by side, the children walked. In their left hand, they held a basket filled 
with pedals from many fresh flowers. The children used their right hand to lightly toss the pedals from the basket onto the bright red carpet 
beneath them. The cool, fresh air grabbed the pedal’s fragrance filling the church with perfumed effervescence. When the two children reached 
the pedestal, the girl turned left and stood. The boy turned right, walked past John Halbred and Captain Clifford Clemson, who were dressed 
in full regalia, to stand on the Captain’s right. The choir again increased their volume slightly.

Three couples had lined up single file beneath the entryway. The women were dressed in an elegant blue and the men dressed in regal uniform. 
Each couple followed in the footsteps of the children that had gone before them. As the last couple parted at the pedestal, the choir sang out in 
full force while the organist played a familiar song - all eyes turned to view the splendor, which had emerged in the entryway.

The lovely sight that encompassed their vision was Lady Mary Lynden and Mary’s mother Eleanor, standing by Mary’s right side. Eleanor 
was dressed in chiffon blue. Mary wore the gown of matrimony laced in silk, flowing in satin, and vailed in testimony. Mary and Eleanor, as 
the children before, as the couples before, walked down the isle side by side. The patrons filling with excitement. Behind the enchanting bride, 
there were two more children, who managed the bride’s long, white flowing train. Echoes of weeping mingled through the sounds of organ and 
choir. When Eleanor and Mary reached the pedestal, Eleanor looked at John Halbred and gave him the hand she had been holding for so 
long. A tear in Eleanor’s eye formed as she moved and stood with the other women in blue. The clergyman raised his hands into the perfumed 
air. The organ and choir stopped their musical performance, creating a silent ambiance of heart felt tranquility. The clergyman began to speak.

The priest spoke of honor, truth, trust and commitment to love. Mary held John’s hand. Mary’s hand was warm with excitement. John was 
nervous with anticipation. The crowd began to sob with reverence. The priest asked for the exchange of vows and rings. John’s heart began to 
race. Mary felt sweat forming upon her brow. After the exchange, the priest declared for all to hear and witness, “I now pronounce you, 
husband and wife.” The crowd held back their teary celebration, as John and Mary turned toward each other. The priest spoke again, “You 
may now, kiss the bride.” John raised his arms. His hands grabbed the bottom of the lacy veil and then lifted the veil to expose the beauty that 
was his love. Mary’s eyes were teary with happiness. John felt the emotions welling up inside of his heart. John felt a tear run down his 
cheek. 

Mary and John burst toward each other in complete commitment to kiss a kiss that burned love’s desire. The crowd erupted with joyous 
revelry. The church filled with echoing cheers and tearful sobs. John and Mary felt overwhelmed. So full of life was this moment that they 
took hands and ran down the isle, through the arched entryway, down the granite steps, and toward a carriage that awaited them. Eleanor 
and Captain Clemson followed as the crowd threw rice over John and Mary as they fled past.

When John and Mary reached the carriage, the church bells began to resound the grandeur of the event. John helped Mary into the carriage, 
then climbed in. There was a crack of a whip, and the carriage was off. John and Mary looked back to see the excitement of their cheering 
friends and family. John noticed that Eleanor was holding Captain Clemson’s hand; this was truly a day for the bonding of friendships.

John turned to Mary and hugged her with great passion. The church bells continued to celebrate the event. Their union reverberating 
throughout the countryside - forever on would love’s call be heard. Let destiny’s guide be within the will of its maker. For John and Mary, 
their destinies were bound by the will of love and to the coming of their future child, whose destiny...it would be...to become King.

				The End