Chapter 22

"I must face Lincoln Robert and ask him to release me from our betrothal." As Brianna brushed her hair before the mirror, she spoke to her reflection.

She felt no guilt over loving Wolf Mortimer and had not the slightest regret that they had spent the last two glorious days and nights together consummating that love. There had been sparks between them from the first moment they met, and the attraction had flared stronger and deeper with every encounter, until it had ignited into a fire that would burn forever. Though she had denied it, her heart knew all along that she had fallen in love with him, and when she finally acknowledged it, her spirit had been set free.

Brianna did, however, feel great remorse over Lincoln Robert. She had pledged to marry him and now she would have to hurt him by asking him to release her. She now realized that what she felt for Lincoln was a natural affection for a brother or a cousin. It had nothing in common with the tumultuous, all-consuming passion she felt for Wolf.

Since she was already in Surrey, Brianna decided to ride the few miles to Farnham Castle and tell Lincoln Robert, face-to-face, that she could not marry him.

When she arrived at Farnham, she saw that the property was even lovelier than Lincoln had described in his letters. She gazed about the estate where she and her betrothed were supposed to begin their married life. Lynx and Jane were so generous to give us this castle that belonged to the late Earl of Surrey. They will think me an ungrateful wretch when I ask to be released from the betrothal contract.

In the courtyard, Farnham's steward greeted her.

"Good morning. Can you tell me where I may find Lincoln Robert?"

"He returned to Hedingham yesterday, Lady Brianna. He will be sorry to have missed you. He spoke of your visit often. Do come inside and enjoy Farnham's hospitality."

"Thank you for your lovely invitation, but I had best return to my duties at Windsor." Brianna could not help feeling relief that the confrontation with her betrothed had been postponed. As she left, a voice inside her head accused: Coward!

"Where on earth did you disappear to?" Isabelle asked Brianna when she got back to Windsor.

"I rode to Farnham Castle to see Lincoln de Warenne. I kept postponing my visit until after August first." It's not really a lie—I did actually ride to Farnham.

She saw the concerned look on the queen's face. "Never fear, Isabelle, I did not confide any secrets to my betrothed."

"Thank you, Brianna. We must trust no one. I have news for you. While you were gone, it was discovered that Mortimer's sons and the de Bohun brothers were no longer at Windsor. By some miracle they escaped their confinement."

"That is a great relief, though we must pretend complete indifference."

"It was my son, Prince Edward, who told me about it. He was quite happy they were no longer prisoners. I wouldn't be at all surprised if he had a hand in helping his royal cousins escape."

Brianna decided not to disabuse her of her suspicions.

Two days later, King Edward and Hugh Despencer arrived in London, incensed that Roger Mortimer had escaped from the Tower. Though the constable blamed his sublieutenant Alspaye for aiding and abetting the notorious prisoner, the king had Segrave slapped in irons and the entire garrison of guards punished.

King Edward was in a state of near panic. His royal army was shrinking by the day. Mortimer at liberty could be the focus for a concerted opposition to his rule. He issued orders that Roger Mortimer must be recaptured, dead or alive, and raised the hue and cry all over England. Both Edward and Despencer took it for granted that the notorious traitor would have gone to either Wales or Ireland, and ordered Pembroke to send men-at-arms to scour those infernal places.

"This could not have happened at a worse time. I am beset on all sides," the king raved to Pembroke. "You were up north with me. Not a day went by that the accursed Scots did not mount raids into England! Your army is useless, Pembroke. We have never been victorious fighting the Bruce!"

The Earl of Pembroke, aging and not in the best of health, dared to tell Edward the truth. "Sire, war with Scotland is one that can never be won. Your father emptied England's coffers conquering the Scots, but they refused to stay conquered."

"Each time we sign a truce, the accursed Scots break it. God rot their heathen souls! You must go and negotiate a long and lasting truce with Robert Bruce that he will not break after a few months."

"Sire, may I suggest that you send the earls of Surrey and Arundel with me to Scotland? They have been friends of Robert Bruce since boyhood. I warrant if any man can persuade the Bruce to a lasting peace with England, it will be Lynx de Warenne."

Edward turned to Despencer, who was busy stamping deeds with the Royal Seal of England. "What do you think, Hugh? Your advice in these matters is indispensable."

Hugh Despencer dominated the king, who had given him all the confiscated lands of Mortimer, d'Amory, and Audley, making him the unopposed ruler of South Wales. The insatiable Despencer was not satisfied, however. He spent his days amassing estates, land, and wealth, which in turn increased his power. Since he hated women, he took particular delight in preying on widows and other vulnerable females who owned property. He had his own network of enforcers that did his bidding because he paid them well. Since these men did not hesitate to commit violence, the women surrendered their manors and their lands. The people of England both feared and hated him, and secretly lusted for his downfall.

Hugh Despencer had been closely following the conversation. "Since de Warenne has come into the earldom of Surrey, he has done little to prove his loyalty to the Crown."

"He brought his forces to help siege Leeds Castle," Pembroke pointed out.

"That proved his loyalty to the queen, not the king," Hugh declared. "Summon de Warenne and set the task before him. If he is reluctant, gentle persuasion can be brought to bear."

Rickard de Beauchamp visited the London merchant Botton and picked up secret correspondence from France. Mortimer asked that Rickard pass messages to his son Wolf and to Adam Orleton, Bishop of Hereford. He also asked him to get word to the queen that he had arrived safely in Paris.

Accompanied by Simon Deveril, Brianna met her brother Rickard in the woods by the river. She saw that he now sported a beard to help disguise his features.

"Roger sent a message for the queen. He arrived safely at the King's Court in Paris and was warmly welcomed by Isabelle's brother Charles."

"Thank you, Rickard. She will be greatly relieved. Did he send a message for Wolf?"

"He did," Rickard confirmed.

"Then you know where he is!" Brianna said quickly.

"I know how to get in touch with him," he said evasively. "He moves from place to place. His mission is the same as mine—to unite those who oppose the tyranny of Edward and Despencer. Adam Orleton is secretly uniting the bishops. We all have our work cut out for us. Roger Mortimer will raise an invading army. When he lands, we must be ready."

"Thank you, Rickard, for risking your neck to bring us a message. Is there any safe way I can contact you?"

"If it's absolutely necessary, send Simon to Flamstead."

On the way back to the stables, Brianna said, "Thank you for not asking where I disappeared to last week."

"I didn't need to ask," Simon said quietly.

"Oh." Brianna blushed. "I must go to Hedingham, as soon as the queen can spare me for a few days."

"I will escort you, my lady."

"Thank you, Simon. I am most grateful." You know my secrets, yet you are still loyal to me.

By late August, Brianna knew that in all conscience she could no longer delay her visit to Hedingham. When she asked for permission from Isabelle, she did not tell the queen that the purpose for her visit was to end her betrothal. Lincoln Robert must be the first to know.

When Brianna and Simon Deveril rode into Hedingham, Jane, who was in the courtyard, broke into a radiant smile. "Oh, how wonderful you are here. I was just about to write you a letter to invite you. I have such exciting news, Brianna!"

"Hello, Jane." Oh dear, you look so happy, and I am about to ruin it. Simon helped Brianna from the saddle and took Venus to the stables.

"I see you are wearing the touchstone I painted for you. Do you believe in the wolf's mystic power to bring you secret knowledge, and to guide you on the path of life?"

"Yes, I do. The wolf is absolutely the right symbol for me," Brianna said truthfully.

"Come inside and I'll tell you the news."

Jane led the way into her solar and poured them dandelion and burdock wine she had made herself.

"Lynx was summoned to Westminster by the king. I knew he was reluctant to go, though he didn't tell me why. But when he returned yesterday, his worries seemed to have been put to rest and he was full of plans."

"What did Edward want?" Brianna was immediately wary.

"The king wants Lynx and the Earl of Arundel to accompany Pembroke to Scotland to negotiate a lasting truce with Robert Bruce. I will be able to visit my family at Dumfries Castle and show off my sons. I haven't been to Scotland for almost eighteen years. I am very excited!"

"Jane, I am so happy for you. It will be wonderful to return to Scotland and see your family after all these years."

"We want you to come too, Brianna. The first thing Lincoln Robert said was how overjoyed you would be."

"That is most generous of you, Jane. I…I don't know what to say." Dear God, I must tell Lincoln I want to be released from the betrothal. I cannot just fling it in Jane's teeth.

"You will be able to visit Wigton Castle, which will be yours when you wed. And you will meet Robert Bruce, the King of Scotland. You will love him—everyone does."

"Yes…indeed," she said faintly. "Where is Lincoln Robert?"

"He's gone to check on the harvesters. We hope to get the early hay crop in before we leave. He should be back any minute."

"I think I'll go and meet him."

"Off you go, darling. Let him tell you about Scotland. Don't let on that I spoiled the surprise."

Brianna felt wretched. I'm the one who will spoil the surprise.

She began to walk to the hay fields, which lay beyond the orchard. She got as far as the first row of apple trees when she spotted him returning. Brianna stood still and waited.

He let out a whoop when he saw her and slid from the saddle. "You didn't keep your promise about coming to Farnham," he teased.

"I…I did go to Farnham, but you had already left."

"Did Mother tell you we are going to Scotland?" He picked her up and swung her about.

"Lincoln, please put me down. I have something serious I must discuss with you."

"Me too." He set her feet to the ground. "Why don't we get married at Wigton Castle?"

"No, Lincoln…that is impossible."

"Then Scotland. We could have the wedding in Scotland."

Brianna took a deep breath. "Lincoln, I ask that you release me from our betrothal."

His face turned grim. "No!" he shouted. "I absolutely refuse to release you!"

"Lincoln, you must." She searched for words that would not hurt him, but failed. "I have come to realize that my love for you is that of a cousin. We were childhood friends, and I thought that was enough, but—"

"Friends don't do this to each other!"

"I am so sorry. I am filled with remorse, Lincoln. But I cannot marry you, because I don't love you that way."

"I don't give a damn, Brianna! The contract is legal and binding and I won't allow you to break it."

"You must release me, Lincoln. I will not marry you."

"Love has nothing to do with it. You are the daughter of an Earl of the Realm. You signed it and you will honor it!"

"Are you telling me that noble titles are more important to you than love?" Brianna began to feel angry.

"Signed betrothal contracts take precedence over love. Our fathers, both Earls of the Realm, also signed the contract. It is a fitting match between equals. Love will come after we marry."

"We will never be married, Lincoln. I will speak to Lynx and Jane about this."

Lincoln immediately changed his tactics. He stopped demanding and started cajoling. "Brianna, you would never be so cruel as to speak of this to my mother? It would be heartless to spoil her visit to Scotland after she has waited all these years."

"I don't want to hurt Jane," Brianna protested. "She is the sweetest and most gentle lady I know."

"Then do not hurt her, I beg you. For my mother's sake, say nothing about breaking the betrothal until she has enjoyed her visit and we return home. Our wedding was planned for Christmas. That gives you lots of time to think about it and perhaps change your mind. When December comes, if you still feel the same, I will release you."

Brianna hesitated. "Lincoln, I would feel much better if we made a quick, clean break."

" You would feel better? Forgive me, your feelings are paramount in this matter." His voice dripped sarcasm. "Forget you are the daughter my mother has always wanted. Forget that this will break her heart."

"I am covered with guilt that I must hurt her, but I feel that Jane will understand."

"Yes, my mother is indeed selfless. She is a most understanding lady, who always puts others before herself."

Brianna drew in a deep breath. "I suppose I could wait until you return from Scotland. But, Lincoln, I want you to understand that I will not change my mind."

"I quite understand how stubborn you are."

No, Lincoln, you haven't the faintest idea!

"Brianna, how's my imp of Satan?" Lynx de Warenne teased.

She flushed. His words made her feel like a handmaiden of the devil. Lynx had ridden over to Colchester to discuss the upcoming journey with Richard FitzAlan, Earl of Arundel, but had returned in time for dinner.

"When I told FitzAlan I was taking my family with me to Scotland, he decided to take his daughter, Blanche. He offers his ship, which he keeps at Colchester, for the journey to Edinburgh. That would be far less fatiguing for the ladies than riding all the way to Scotland."

"That is most generous of Lord Arundel," Jane declared happily.

"Brianna and I think Blanche FitzAlan a very sweet young lady," Lincoln Robert declared.

Young Jamie rolled his eyes and Brianna choked on her wine.

After dinner, Brianna followed Lynx into his library and closed the door. "I find it strange that you are eager to do the king's bidding. Edward and Despencer are nothing but tyrants."

"Indeed they are, but there is method in my madness. If I negotiate a truce with my friend Robert Bruce, my castles and lands will not be forfeit."

"They have threatened you?"

"Not in so many words, but it is implied that if I am successful, my estates will be safe. I know I can trust your discretion, Brianna. Don't let on to Jane. Lincoln returned from Farnham to warn me that our neighbor's property that runs parallel with ours has been sequestered by Despencer."

"He's a vicious, greedy swine! If you were approached by those who would unite against this tyranny, would you join them?"

Lynx stiffened. His face set in stern lines. "I will not discuss treason with you, Brianna. Do not involve yourself in men's affairs. Splendor of God, you are just like your mother. You may trust me to do what is best for my family."

"Yes, of course. I'm sorry."

His face softened. "Jane will enjoy showing you Dumfries, and perhaps you and Lincoln can visit Wigton Castle, which is just across the Solway Firth from Jane's old home."

Brianna opened her mouth to protest, and then closed it. She had agreed to keep quiet about ending the betrothal until Jane returned from Scotland.

"When do you plan on leaving?"

"We'll try to sail in a week. I'd rather not wait any later than the first week of September. Autumn comes early to Scotland, and winter weather soon follows. Don't forget to pack your furs."

The evening passed in a blur for Brianna. When Lynx and Jane retired early, she suspected it was so that she and Lincoln Robert could be alone. "I'm tired. I think I'll go upstairs too."

Alone in the lovely chamber that had belonged to her mother, she found that she could think more clearly. She readied herself for bed and then her fingers sought the wolf touchstone. She clasped it tightly. Please guide me on the right path.

Lynx and Jane took it for granted that she was going to Scotland with them, but in truth she had no desire to go. Since she had agreed not to break off the betrothal until after the trip, it would mean that she would have to live a lie every day of the journey, and she shrank from it. Don't be such a hypocrite, Brianna. You are quite capable of lying and practicing deceit. You've been doing it for months to help Isabelle and Mortimer.

As she pondered her dilemma, she realized that she could make an excuse to Lynx and Jane why she could not go to Scotland, without disclosing her intention to break her betrothal with Lincoln Robert.

She pulled on a bedrobe over her nightgown and went down the long hallway that led to Lynx and Jane's bedchamber. Their door was slightly ajar and when she heard her name spoken, something made her stop and listen.

"Brianna has Robert's eyes. Their large, soft brown Celtic eyes are identical. I've often suspected the Bruce is her father."

"You mustn't say such things. Many people have brown eyes," Jane admonished her husband.

Brianna was stunned. I cannot possibly be the daughter of the King of Scotland! She stood in the dim hallway, her heart pounding, her head spinning, and her feet rooted to the floor. When the dizziness passed, she silently backed away from their chamber and returned to her own room.

She went to the mirror, raised her thick dark lashes, and saw the large brown Celtic eyes staring back at her. Brianna's fingers closed over her wolf touchstone. You brought me secret knowledge. The reflection of the room behind her evoked her mother. Jory's spirit seemed tangible in the very air.

You left Scotland and immediately married Guy de Beauchamp. The Earl of Warwick is not my father! Anger and pain rose up in her. How could you? How could you both deceive me?