Chapter 1 ....

He placed the boy down and looked to see the fair and lovely Alyssa. She wore a white dress trimmed in gold that hugged her hips and breasts softly, her light brown hair was unbound and fell to her waist.  There eyes met and the she smiled.  Edward walked up her he and took her hand.
“My lady.” he whispered brushing his lips across her fingers. Alyssa blushed as the prince embraced her.
“Your highness.” she cooed tenderly.  Edward turned to her lips and brushed them gently.  He gazed into her blue eyes, and lifting her chin, kissed her passionately.  Edward lost himself in her embrace; he did not care who saw them.  Alyssa clung to him trembling she had missed his kiss, missed the feel of his arms around her.   Little Anders looked up at them and tugged on Edwards’s tunic.
“Will you be my new father someday?”
Alyssa and Edward looked down at Anders and then at each other.  Tears rose in Alyssa's eyes, she smiled, wiping them away.  Edward took a breath and knelt down to Anders.
“Would you like that?”
“Yes, the seven year old stated, please marry my mummy”
Alyssa bit her lip, she had been sixteen when she wed Lord Peters, and he had not been interested in her, as he was more inclined to gambling and wenching.  When they moved from their manor to the royal castle Alyssa met Prince Edward, the youngest of King Steven’s sons.  He was kind and handsome with an outgoing personality.  He was different then other royals and lords she had ever met.  The next two years were spent innocently together, but in that time they found themselves in love with each other and that love grew.  One evening Lord Peters was found dead. He had been murdered for his extensive gambling debts.  Edward wasted no time and asked Alyssa for her hand.  She accepted him and that night Edward took her as his own. He found her to still be a maiden but he was not surprised, he knew Peters had no interest in Alyssa save her holdings of which he was squandering away at the card table. Alyssa willing gave herself to Edward, and his tender passion. There love no neither bounds, nor precautions.  Alyssa father, Lord Sarson, upon hearing of their engagement, forbade it and would not sign their betroval papers.  He did not trust Edward, as he believed that the prince had Lord Peter’s murdered.  The couple was heart broken, but Edward persisted and lobbied for Alyssa to stay at the royal castle, as her father wanted her to be sent to a convent.  King Steven was not unaware of their goings on, and thought that the allegations on his son were slanderous as the real murderer, a moneylender, was found and hung. Hence the king allowed Alyssa to stay at the royal court under his protection which further infuriated lord Sarson.  Edward was relieved that his father had allowed Alyssa to stay, as she was now pregnant with his child. He would see her in secret and comfort her. She promised that when her time came she would send him a message.  The night that call came Edward paced his room, he wanted to be with Alyssa in her time of need but to do so openly would destroy Alyssa’s reputation and brand his son a bastard.  Jonathan kept him informed on how she was faring, as it was a long night. As the dawn slowly lit up the sky Jonathan came back with the message that she was safely delivered of a son, Edward sank to his knees and thanked god. He prayed that one day he could call this child his own.  Later, when all had settled down, he climbed down to Alyssa’s chamber window. Peeking in, he beheld a sight that warmed his heart. Alyssa was sitting up in her bed, nursing the little babe at her breast.  Upon seeing Edward she dismissed the servants.  Once alone, the prince embraced his little family.
“My son” he whispered as he stoked the infant’s tiny hand.
“Yes, he has your green eyes and no doubt your red hair” Alyssa cooed softy.
Composing himself Edward took a breath.
“Are you all right Alyssa?  I am sorry for the pain I have caused you to endure.”  Alyssa just smiled at him, their son fussed and turned his eyes to them.
“All the pain in the world was worth this beautiful child, thank you Edward”
The prince gazed at the child.  Only a few hours old yet the child had his expression, his eyes.
“My lady, I love you and I want to wed you…” Alyssa looked away.
“Yes but…he will not allow us…”
“Alyssa, you father cannot stop me from loving you and our child”.
 She turned to him.
“Nor can he stop me, my Lord”  
“No one can” Edward breathed and kissed her softy on the lips.  Alyssa slowly lifted the babe into his father arms.  The prince held his son close to his heart.
“My son, I accept you as mine, he whispered…Prince Anders Carl Thernhard. We will be a family one day.  He looked up at Alyssa. “I swear it”
Edward composed himself and smiled.
“Come, you wanted to see Kira. I believe I saw her up on the ramparts.”  Jonathan opened the window as Edward fitted a large leather glove on the little boy’s hand.  
“Now hold you hand up high”
Edward whistled three short toots.  Down from the sky swooped a majestic blue falcon, she flew into the window and landed on Anders’s gloved hand.
The boy smiled at Edward and looked at the bird with stars in eyes.
“Kira.” he said as he watched her beautiful golden eyes.  The peregrine falcon looked around the room, and seeing Alyssa, flew over to her.  

Chapter 1.....

Setting off from the castle on separate horses, they rode across the countryside.  The spring air filled their lungs and rose their desire for each other.  Edward looked over at Alyssa, his gaze told her more then any words could.  They were free if only for that afternoon.  They reined in their horses sharply and Alyssa slide from her mount and climbed into the saddle before Edward.  He embraced her tight and spurred his horse hard.  Desperately he muttered passionate words into her ear as they arrived at there trysting spot.  It was a small grove of chestnut trees, safe and hidden from the road.  A little brook bubbled over an outcrop of rock on the woodland hill.  Goliath, Edwards Friesian stallion, tossed his head as they slide from his back and into each other’s arms.  They held each other silently drinking in the ones of their embrace.  
“Alyssa.” Edward’s deep voice droned in her ear, his warm breath sent anticipation threw her heart.
Alyssa looked up at him and traced her finger over his freckled cheek. His thick eyebrows lowered as he drew in his breath and trembled.
“Oh, I have so missed your touch.”  He whispered.
Tenderly she ran her finger over his mouth.  Edward gently caught her finger between his soft lips.  Alyssa trembled with desire.
“And I have missed you, my man.”
Slowly she pulled her hand away and watched his green eyes brighten.  Taking her hand Edward led her under the chestnut trees and kneeling untied the bow on her stays as Alyssa ran her hand over his belts. Slowly they undressed each other; piece by piece there garments fell around them.  Edward trembled as he beheld his lady; his large hands caressed her soft skin gently as Alyssa ran her hands down his shoulders pushing back his long hair.  They looked into each other eyes, these were the moments they lived for and they savored this time.

Chapter 2....

The sound of approaching hoof beats sent them into a panic.  Alyssa slid off Goliath and sprinting to her mare mounted her.   She looked back at Edward as she spurred the horse forward.  Edward tugged back on the reins as Goliath lurched forward in pursuit of Alyssa, causing the horse to rear up high.  As Alyssa galloped off out of sight he turned in misery to see who was coming up behind him.  Lord Sarson accompanied by a knight, trotted up to Edward and slowed to a stop.  
“Your highness.” he said and bowed his head.
“Lord Sarson.” Edward said between clenched teeth.  If they had caught all would have been lost.  His beloved Alyssa would be put in a convent and his son would be sent to Sarson’s manor to brought up by him.  
“Pray, are you out hunting as I saw your bird not to long ago?”
Edward looked up to see Kira sailing on an up draft.  She turned and tucking her wings shot down from the sky.  As she touched down in a field her claws clasped a rabbit in mid leap.  
“Ah, she has got one!” Sarson smiled.  The old man sat back in the saddle and glanced at Edward, a look of self-righteousness filled his expression.  “I am going to the castle to see my grandson, I have brought him a gift, he patted the short sword at his side, I mean for Sir Carl here to teach him swordplay”.
The knight nodded to the prince.  Edwards ears burned with anger, he wanted to teacher his son all he needed to know, not this callus and vengeful man’s lackey.  Edward felt the tip of his sword with his foot; the weapon was mounted next to the saddle, as it was too large to wear.  He was given the legendary Drake bane from his father; the six-foot blade seemed to call to him.  He wanted to draw it and end his and Alyssa suffering once and for all.  But he knew this was not the way. Gathering his thoughts he tugged on a glove and whistled for Kira.  The falcon was still consuming her catch and looked up to his call.  Taking to the air she flew up to Edward and landed on his wrist.  
“Good day lord Sarson” he said and spurred Goliath into a trot. As he traveled down the road he looked back to see Sarson heading toward the castle.   Spurring his horse hard, Edward tossed Kira forward.  She leapt from his hand and spreading her wings, took to the air.  As they road he urged Goliath faster, his heart felt like a million knives were carving at it at once.  The road became a blur as they raced on; he could hear Kira’s cries high about him. He took the long way around the forest back to the castle trail.  Goliath was at top speed as they reached the castle.  The prince reined him in and rode him to the stables. A Stewart took the sweat soaked stallion from Edward as he detached his sword form the saddle.  In the castles main hall he saw Jonathan.  He strode up to him with Drake bane on his shoulder, his eyes set.
“Where is my son?” he growled in the boy’s ear.
Jonathan set his jaw and adverted his gaze to the stone floor.
“He is in the solar with his mother and grandfather”.
Edward eyes narrowed.
“ I thought as much”.

Chapter 2...

Outside in the practice area Anders swung his new sword as Sir Carl instructed him in the late afternoon light.  High in the air Kira floated silently on the breeze, she arched right and flew up to an open window in the castle turret.  Edward stood in the window; he leaned on his arm as he watched his son in the field below. He drained off his chalice of wine and looked at Kira as she stood on the stone window still, she peeped and ruffled her feathers.
“My lady, he address the bird, how long must Alyssa and I endure this pain?”  He turned from the window and dashed his chalice hard against the wall.  “Damn you Sarson, damn you!”

Jonathan entered Edwards chamber later that evening.  The room was in a state of disarray.   He noticed his lord’s armor was gone and so was his sword and shield.  Rushing from the room he went down to the stables, Goliath was not in his stall.  The Stewart told him the prince was drunk and mumbled something about the witch of Gotland.  The young man held a bloody bandaged to his head; no doubt he had made the mistake of getting in the princes way.  Jonathan tried to think who would know of the witch?  Family lore had stated that prince Michael had met with the sorceress long ago.  He went back to the castle and found Prince Michael in the library.
“My prince” he bowed catching his breath.  Michael was at a desk reading when the young aid rushed into the room he looked up and eyed him.
“What has happened?”
“Your highness, Prince Edward has gone to find the witch of Gotland, he is well into his cups and dare I say dangerous.” Michael stood and controlled his panic.
“We must find him.” he called to his squire who was sitting at door. Carl, get my horse ready!   Come Jonathan we will find him” And he thought, I hope we are not too late.

Chapter 2...

In her chamber Alyssa sat on her bed and watched her son sleep.  How peaceful he looked, his day was very full and he was no trouble to put down tonight.  Soon he would be old enough for his own bed.  Alyssa turned to see Ing’Marie standing before her with a chalice of wine. The old women had been her lady in waiting since she was small, and she knew as Alyssa did what her lady now had to do.  Alyssa took the chalice and gazed into it, reaching into a box on her nightstand she took out a small blue vile.  As she added it contents drop by drop to the wine she wondered how more times must she drink this foul brew?  The tincture had been given to her from the midwife who delivered Anders.  Her instructions were simple; three drops into a chalice of wine after the act of love will end any chance of conceiving.  Placing the vile down she brought the chalice to her lips; tears filled her eyes as she drank.  Edward, she thought, I so want to give you more children but for now I know we must wait.  Finishing her cup she looked up at Ing’Marie through her tears.  The old women sat next to her and put her arm around her.
“Now, now my lamb, do not cry” Alyssa turned, the chalice tumbled to the floor as she sobbed into the old women’s shoulder.  

                                                                                 ******

Chapter 3...

Alyssa sat in her rooms working at her embroidery.  Anders was in school for the afternoon and she filled this quite time with her stitchery.  An accomplished embroider and dressmaker she worked on the five-foot tapestry with skillful fingers.  It was a commission from the king for the throne room; it was picture depicting the royal crest in a shield surrounded by all the names of the royal family.  Under each princes name was the name of there children.  Alyssa looked at the empty space under Edwards’s name.  She knew one day she would place Anders name there and perhaps her own with his, but for now it remained blank.  A knock at the door woke her from her thoughts.  It was Ing’Marie; she handed her a message.  Alyssa read it and grabbing her skirts ran out the door and down to the stables.  The message was from Edward. He wanted to meet her at Goliath’s stall. His shaky handwriting set her nerves racing.  Once in the stables she made her way to the stall.  Goliath swung his large head over the door and nickered softly.  The horse was dressed in battle armor; the golden plate’s extended from his nose down his long neck. Taking a breath she open the stall door and gasped, Edward turned to her as he adjusted the saddle.  He was clad in golden bronze armor of exquisite detail; his breastplate was fitted with the coat of arms of Gotland on a black field.  She had never seen him in his armor before, the sight took her breath away and yet it freighted her.
“Edward, I got your message, where are you going?”  
“Alyssa, I believe I have found an answer to our problems. I am going to see the Witch of Gotland, her council is wise perhaps…”
Alyssa eyes flashed with panic.
“Nay, Edward please…”
“I know it is dangerous but I am prepared to kill what ever beast she tests me with”. Gently he embraced her and looked down into her eyes. “I would do anything to secure our happiness”.  
“I believe you my lord, pray take care. Anders and I cannot live without you” Edward pulled her closer.
“Nor could I live without you both, and that is why I must go” he sighed deeply into her ear.  Wiping her tears Alyssa backed away as Edward swung into the saddle and donned his helm.  He turned to her and gripped her hand.
“I will return to you”
As Edward rode out of the stables and onto the green Alyssa sent out a pray that he would be safe and return to her and there son.  


Anders was finished with his studies for the day and taking his pony he and Jonathan road back to the castle.  His teacher, brother Svenson, had said he was doing well and that would soon be quite accomplished at his Latin.  His seventh birthday was almost upon him.  At that time he would put in for a squireship. There were a few knights who had shown and interest in him.  His grandfather was now having him trained regularly by Sir Carl.  Anders traveled the south road to the castle. On his left, in-between a strip of forest, was the north road that went to the countryside.  He glanced over and pulled his pony to a stop.  Jonathan wheeled his horse around to see what had distracted the boy. Coming down the south road was a knight on a large black horse, his armor shined in the afternoon light; the crest of the royal family blazed boldly on his chest.  Upon his head was an incredible helm: the visor was the beak of an eagle, long wings arched up high from the sides of this golden masterpiece.  Anders stared as the knight road by, the horse was covered in battle armor that matched the knights golden suit. It’s big hoofs guided in gold stepped proudly.  Strapped to the saddle was a massive sword.  It was Edward!  Anders had always admired Prince Edward, they looked alike in a way and the young boy would sometime wish he were his father.  But now to see him as knight enthralled the young lad.  The cry of the falcon caused Anders to look up, Kira swooped down and landed on Edwards outstretched arm.  
“Come lad” Jonathan beckoned him.  Still looking back Anders nudged his pony forward.  
“That was …was Prince Edward” the child gasped.  “I have seen all of the kings knights but none truly looked as magnificent as he!"

Chapter 4


Edward pasted St. Johan’s cross, the stone monument stood silently as he rode past.  He recalled the story of how Father had proposed to mother on that very spot.  But now the lone marker reminded him of a gravestone in a lone cemetery long neglected.  A feeling of cold and despair pierced his thoughts.  Up head was the road that led to the Lone Forest.  Gripping his nerve he spurred Goliath faster.  As they rounded the turn off the air grew heavy and damp.  He could feel Goliath tremble under him, the forest became darker, and he heard no birds or other signs of life as he went along.  He slowed his horse to stop and pulled out the map.  It was here that he was to enter the forest.  Goliath sidestepped nervously. Edward got him under control and turned him off the road into the dark wood.

Michael sat in his study; grief crossed his face.  He had given his little brother the map and now he was off on his Quest to see the witch.  Still he pondered perhaps she does not exist anymore.  He had postponed his trip to Storuman County; he was too worried about Edward.  He recalled the times when Edward was a child.  Michael was ten years older then Edward, when his mother the Queen was pregnant he had hoped for a little brother and was excited when his father brought him into the room shortly after Edwards birth.  Edward was four when Michael wed his wife Vella and was so thrilled to be his best man.  As the years went by they shared many good times together.  Michael taught Edward swordsmanship and how to ride a horse.  His nephew, Gustaf, taught him the art of knife throwing, few people in the family were able to befriend Gustaf, a dark and brooding sort. But Edward gained his respect.  King Steven noticed the bond between Edward and Michael and over the years watched it grow.  Thought he himself wished he was closer to the boy, at times Edward and his father did not always see eye to eye.  Edward knew he would never be King of Gotland, nor did he desire it.  Rather he found his solace in nature and her animals. Edward wanted to be a forest ranger and live in the wild, he had found Kira as a chick and raised her himself.  King Steven forbade him from taking this post as he was still a prince and could do much good for their people.  Edward thought not but begrudgingly obeyed his fathers wish.  As time went on bouts of depression plagued him and his drinking became worst.  The only thing that brought happiness to his heart was Alyssa and now there son Anders.  Michael bowed his head.
“My lord god be with my brother this day.  May his heart be brave and his sword strike true.”