Destiny (ch.29)

 

Chapter 29 MacMurrough/de Clare/Archid

While Aoife lay in Strongbow’s arms afterwards, she was captivated. Never had she felt  like that before and she couldn’t keep from thinking about it.  Strongbow was sleeping lightly but still had a firm grip on her. She looked at him and couldn’t believe the man he had become during their night together. He was self confident and knew exactly what she wanted. Even with her pregnant belly as an obstacle, Strongbow was amazing. 

Aoife tried to keep her thoughts away from what had happened, not the physical act but the emotional aspect of it. She had broken her promise to Finn and didn’t know what to do next. As she slowly returned to reality, she realized she had been swept away in the moment of their grief and wouldn’t be able to return to where they were before. She had not considered her situation with Finn for she still did not know where he was or if he would ever come back. Now that her father was gone, she wasn’t sure if she would ever know. She didn’t even know if he was still in Ireland. She felt like the only thing she could do was to make peace with the unconscious decision she had made the night before. 

She slowly pulled herself out of Strongbow’s grasp and lifted herself out of the bed. She dressed quietly and without making a sound, she left. She knew where she needed to go and what she needed to do. To make peace with her future, she would have to say goodbye to her past, no matter how hard it would be. At least she would have finally pleased her father. 

She couldn’t ride her horse to her destination in her condition, so she took a horse and cart and traveled slowly. This also gave her time to think about what she was about to do and to change her mind if she decided to. Her thoughts argued as she tried to convince herself that this would be for the best. This is what her father had wanted, this is what Richard deserved and perhaps now she could get on with her life and enjoy being married, rather than hold onto a hope that may never be realized. 

She pulled the cart to the front of the cottage and took a deep breath. She hadn’t been here since the night her and Finn were together, the night their baby was created. As she walked slowly to the front door, her back wrenched with pain, most likely from the bumpy ride she thought. She looked around and despite the change of seasons, everything looked the same. The day they were here together she considered the best day of her life, now she felt somber with great sadness. She hesitated for a moment not sure if she could even go into the manor, the memories might be too much for her to bear. She did need to sit down for her back really needed a rest. Reluctantly she entered, preparing with another deep breath for the emotional onslaught she was about to feel. 

 She walked straight into the room they had spent their night in, and she noticed the fireplace still smoldering. Someone had been there recently, perhaps a caretaker she thought. She saw the Persian rug and visions of that night began to pour into her head. At that moment she noticed a figure sleeping on the bench in the corner. She wasn’t sure if she should leave or find out who was in their cottage.

A second later the man sat up, obviously awakened by Aoife’s presence.  Whe he turned to look at her, their eyes met. At first Aoife didn’t recognize him until she looked closer. 

“Finn! Is that you?” She asked as she ran to him, completely shocked, not believing her eyes. 

“Aoife what are you doing here? He asked desperately as he hugged her as tight as he could without crushing her midsection. “Should you be out on your own in your condition?” Finn had mixed feelings when he saw her. His initial reaction was pure joy, and then he remembered that she didn’t belong to him anymore. He felt rather confused but still held onto her for he had waited months to feel her again. 

“I can’t believe you are really here. When did you get here and why didn’t you come find me?” She asked him as she stood there not believing it was actually him. 

“How could? I saw you yesterday at the gravesite, but you were busy. I didn’t want to intrude on you and…” He answered, stepping back unable to finish the sentence.

  “What do you mean intrude? I would have expected you to come and take me away from all of that, I still love you Finn!” She answered in a surprised manner, momentarily forgetting what had happened the night before with Strongbow. “Aoife, obviously you belong to de Clare now.” He answered as he gestured to her pregnant abdomen. 

“What? Finn you can’t believe that this is Richard’s baby. This is your baby Finn, from our night here! How could you think…” She said shockingly. 

 “Mine? I just thought…” He said with an enormous smile as he grabbed her again. “I didn’t even think, I just saw you with him yesterday and…” Their elation was interrupted when Aoife grabbed her back and winced in pain. It wasn’t an ache this time, it was a sharp longstanding pain that wrapped around to her front. 

“Oh Finn, what is happening?” She asked nervously as she walked in a bent position to the bench to sit down, grasping her lower abdomen.  “I don’t know. How do you feel?” He asked slightly panicked. “Should I get someone?” 

“Don’t leave me! Could this be the baby coming?” She asked in desperation. “I don’t know, I don’t know anything about this Aoife.” He alarmingly replied. He couldn’t believe the timing, this should be happening at the castle with people who could help her, he thought. “Oh, it’s happening again Finn! What do we do?” She asked as she grimaced. 

“It’s only two miles to O’Flattery’s manor. I am sure someone is there who will know what to do.” Finn pleaded. “No, what if something should happen while you are gone? Please stay with me, maybe it will stop.” She replied trying to calm down so he wouldn’t be so anxious. 

“I hope it does Aoife, I don’t think I can do something like this?” He answered uneasily, surprised by her sudden calmness. “Aren’t you scared?”

“Finn, women give birth everyday, if we need to we will figure it out. You are with me, why should I be scared?” As she completed her sentence a wave of pain took her breath away. “Maybe I should lie down.” 

He helped her to the Persian rug and propped up his coat for her to use as a pillow. As he held her hand he had a minute to think of what all of this meant. She did wait for him and she still loved him, he thought smiling internally. “I can’t believe this is happening. You know, it is destiny that this is happening now. A baby Aoife, we are about to have a baby! Can you believe it?” He said with excitement. This morning he believed his life to be over, and now everything had changed.

“I can believe it, I have been believing it for many months. I have so much to tell you Finn.” She said as she squeezed his hand, unable to really comprehend what would actually be happening in that room that day.

“We can talk now my love, I think we have time. I can’t believe it has been so long since we’ve seen each other, now it feels like it was just yesterday.” He answered smiling a nervous smile. 

 And so she did tell him. In between contractions she told him all about being forced to marry Strongbow and how he still wanted to marry her even though she was with child. She told him about her father and the kingdom now belonging to Strongbow. She mentioned how sick she had been in the beginning and about Urlachen’s new baby. She told him everything except what had happened the night before. That was something she herself couldn’t understand or forget.

Surrender (ch 28)

 Ch 28 MacMurrough/de Clare

Strongbow knew he had to work fast. When he saw Finn and the shocked look on his face as he watched him and Aoife, he felt like his life was about to unravel. He hadn’t prepared himself for the possibility of Finn being released as a result of Dermot’s death.

Finn Returns (ch.27)

Chapter 27 Macmurrough/de Clare/Archid

Finn slept soundly after a morning of rigorous exercise. He sometimes took a nap to make the day go quicker. A loud noise startled him so he awoke suddenly. Standing before him was the guard he saw everyday standing by the front wall of the castle. The guard had only spoken to Finn on a few occasions. He felt bad about his situation for he knew all about why he was kept there, so the message he was a about to deliver to him today he knew would be great news.

“Finn Archid. I hereby announce to you that you are to be set free today.” He said formally as a smile formed on his face. He noticed that Finn had recently cut his hair very short, almost unable to recognize him.

“I am? Really? Who ordered it?” Finn asked eagerly as he jumped out of the bed to face the guard.

“King MacMurough of Leinster has died and now there is no one to pay for you to board here. We have no reason to keep you, so you are free to go.” The guard explained knowing that this man had waited to hear these words for so long. Most of the men here were criminals or war hostages, not innocent men who were banished here for personal reasons.

“You have no idea what this means. Thank you kindly for all that you have done for me while I have been here. Can I leave right now?” He asked as he scurried to grab a few of the possessions he had accumulated.  “Of course.” He said as he nodded. “One more question if I may. Where are we? How do I get back to Leinster?” Finn asked suddenly realizing he was without transportation. 

“We are northwest of Connaught on the west coast. I can arrange a way for you to get to the nearest village, but from there you will have to find a way.” He answered amused at Finn’s excitement. 

Finn found himself in the back of a transport cart. He was so full of excitement and happiness that the bumpy ride didn’t bother him. The weather was good and the land was beautiful. Finn had never been this far west. The greenery was remarkable, and the way it blended with the blue sky was lovely. He would bring Aoife here one day if he were to get the chance. He couldn’t wait to lay his weary eyes on her, he had kept her image burned in his memory and couldn’t believe he would see her again soon. The thought gave him chills. He tried not to think of what potentially could be waiting for him, he decided to just have faith that her love was as strong and did not falter.   When he arrived at the village, he was hungry.

He wandered into a public house hoping to find some hot food. He still carried his coin pouch from before he was taken away, so he would also inquire about finding a way home with the little money he had. Noticing he was a stranger, the owner of the pub asked if he would need a place to sleep that night. 

“Can I ask where you are from lad?” He asked curiously. 

“I am traveling home to Leinster , do you know of anyone going southeast that I can pay to travel with, or perhaps a cheap horse someone wants to sell?” Finn asked desperately. 

“Well, we don’t have many travelers, or many people leaving the village for that matter. I can find out about a horse. How much do you have?” He asked Finn, wondering why the man was anxious to get home. 

“This is all I have.” He said as he poured out his pouch full of coins.  “Hmm, should be enough for something.” The owner replied feeling a need to help this unfamiliar man. “I would much rather ride a horse, that way I can home by tomorrow.” Finn said with a grin, his stomach flipped over the thought of seeing Aoife within hours.

It was a sad day in Leinster. King Dermot MacMurrough was dead and the kingdom was grieving. Even his family, to whom he was unjust and sometimes cruel, was sad and full of grief. The funeral would be held in the afternoon and a procession through the village would follow. They would hold a mass, and then he would be buried in the family gravesite at MacMurrough castle, along with his close relatives and ancestors. 

Strongbow was riddled with guilt. He believed that he had caused Dermot’s attack. The family tried to ease his mind, but to no avail. The doctor had spoken to him as well and reassured him that Dermot must have been sick prior to the attack on his heart. Dermot had died in Strongbow’s arms and that experience would haunt him for a long time. 

 Urlachen and Aoife were filled with sorrow, with added guilt on Aoife’s mind. She had not spoken to him that day when he so happily asked about her health. She couldn’t help feeling dejected, all of the bad memories were gone from her mind for the time being and she only thought of the kind things he had said and done. 

Mor was quite despondent. The past year or two had been difficult but she always had love in her heart for Dermot. They had been married to him for what seemed like a lifetime, so the sadness was genuine.

————————————————————————————————————————

Finn had traveled all night with an old horse he bought from one of the villagers the night before. It was nearing the noon hour when he reached Thomand. Out of desperation he stopped at Urlachen and Donnel’s castle for news about Aoife. Much to his dismay, they weren’t there and a servant explained the details of the funeral arrangements for the King which were taking place that very same day. With this information, Finn rode as fast as he could straight to MacMurrough castle in Leinster. When he arrived he wasn’t sure what to expect. He saw from a distance a gathering of people for what looked like the burial service taking place. He decided he would stand in the trees until it was done as to not disturb the service.

He strained to see Aoife from behind a massive willow tree, the same willow that he and Aoife had sat under countless evenings. When the crowd shifted Finn caught a glance of her face, tear stained and full of sadness. Sparks flew through his body and it was then he realized just how much he had missed her. His heart was racing until he saw a figure standing close to her. His joy came to a halt as he watched Strongbow consoling her. He felt the urge to run and tackle him a way from Aoife but he resisted for this was not the time for vengeful actions. 

When the crowd thinned out, Finn could see her better and when he finally saw her full body his heart stopped. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing, he scrambled for a better view and realized Aoife was pregnant! Her abdomen was so large it was unmistakable. Finn was overcome with shock. There was no denying that the vision that stood before him was his beloved Aoife pregnant with Strongbow’s baby.

Tears started to well and his throat went completely dry. It felt like time was standing still. That fear he had held for all those months was suddenly realized. He collapsed onto a log to control his anger and grief which were saddled together creating a blur of emotions. He was heartbroken.

When everyone had left, Finn reluctantly stood back up and saw that Aoife and Strongbow were the only two left at the gravesite. She was still crying so he hugged her tight. Her back was to Finn but Strongbow was facing him and their eyes met. He knew Finn was standing there watching them. He wasn’t sure if Strongbow would recognize him since his hair had been cut so short, but after a short moment Finn’s glare of hatred was returned with a look of worry followed by a heated stare from his rival. Finn didn’t know what to do. Should he make himself known to her or should he walk away and not look back, he asked himself. He loved her so much that her happiness was all that mattered to him. She looked happy in spite of the circumstances that were occupying her mind. Whatever might have ensued had he stormed over to them may not have been the best situation for someone in her condition. He turned to leave and found that his legs were heavy and he was slightly dizzy. He must have still been in shock as he rode away for he found himself at the cottage that was supposed to have been their home.

 He sat on his horse afraid to go in. The memories of the last night they were there engulfed his mind. A moment later he was in the room they had been in when they consummated their love. They had both believed it was a mistake, but now he felt that it was all he had left of her. They had been as close as two people could be.  Strongbow might have been able to take Aoife from him, but he could never take that unforgettable night away from them. 

 He made a fire in the fireplace and sat on their rug staring into the flames. He believed that it could be a nightmare, but it all seemed too real. He stood up suddenly and allowed his emotions to flee his heart.

The tears streamed down his burning face and the sorrow was immense. What could he do now, he asked himself. How could he ever forget her and the love they shared? He decided that the best thing he could do for both himself and Aoife would be to distance himself from the memories and pain. He would have to leave Leinster and never return.

The Fall of a King (ch26)

Chapter 26 MacMurrough/de Clare

 

One afternoon Aoife and Strongbow made the journey to Thomand to see Urlachen and Donnel. Strongbow had insisted on traveling with Aoife since she was so close to her due date. He also needed to speak with Donnel about possibly joining him on a military endeavor, as insisted by King MacMurrough. Dermot was adamant about becoming High King of Ireland and this could only be accomplished with the support of allied kingdoms. Unfortunately for Aoife, Dermot would also be visiting that same afternoon.

The main reason for the visit was the birth of Urlachen and Donnel’s first daughter. She was only days old and was given the name Slaney. After a long and arduous birth, Urlachen was still recovering from the ordeal. The twin boys were growing fast and were certainly missing their dad since Donnel had to spend more time running the kingdom these days. His father had become gravely ill and it was only a matter of time before his death and the succession of Donnel to the throne of Thomand. Of course this was causing much anxiety for him since he wasn’t so sure he was ready to be king. 

When they arrived Dermot was already there, much to Aoife’s displeasure. He immediately began to talk strategy with Strongbow. Donnel had the chance to slip away and show off his new daughter to Aoife.

Upon seeing the beautiful baby girl she began to cry. Her emotions were running rampant lately and the sight of a newborn was enough to set off a deluge of tears. Urlachen understood this completely and tried to comfort her sister. With this sudden burst of emotions, Donnel reluctantly returned to the men’s conversation. 

“I know Aoife.” She said as she hugged her. “I felt the same way as I was getting closer to the birth.” She said sympathetically with a hint of amusement upon realizing the hilarity of spontaneous crying bouts. 

“What will I do Urlachen when my baby is born and I am looking into Finn’s eyes or staring at Finn’s mouth, or any of the other features the baby may have of his? How will Richard react to my reactions?” Aoife said quietly yet urgently.  Urlachen instantly felt somewhat guilty, Aoife was crying over something real and painful. 

“You are strong and Richard will be patient.” She said reassuringly.  “He is quite done being patient. We had a talk the other day, he wants me to start trying to work on a real marriage.” She replied dryly. 

“What are you going to do?” Urlachen asked in awe of Aoife’s situation. Never had she imagined her life to take such a dreadful turn. “Well, father has told me that he plans to keep Finn imprisoned until I am at least pregnant with Richard’s baby.” She answered angrily. “I will never understand his need to be cruel and uncaring.”

“Aoife how is that going to happen if there is no…well you know what I am meaning to say.” Urlachen asked while gasping on her words. 

“I suppose I have to decide very soon whether to wait for Finn which could be a very long time or give up and be a real wife to Richard.” Aoife replied with a matter of fact attitude. “I am so sorry Aoife. I don’t know what advice I could give you. This will have to come from you and your heart.” It pained Urlachen to say that for it offered no help to her distraught sister. 

From the other room, Strongbow called for Aoife. He had been desperately trying to deter Dermot from attempting to pursue the high kingship. The High King was King O’Conner and he was allied with Tiernan O’Rourke, the husband of Norah, Dermot’s longtime mistress, whom Dermot had somewhat kidnapped back when everything started. This sort of action would only open old wounds and start new ones. He wanted to change the subject for he was getting nowhere trying to argue with Dermot. 

 Aoife walked slowly with baby Slaney in her arms. She looked back and gave a bothered look to Urlachen as she left the room. She didn’t want to speak with her father but had no choice since she had been summoned by Richard. 

“How are you feeling Aoife?” Dermot asked with a smile as he glanced at her rotund abdomen. 

“Very well Father.” She answered not looking in his direction but instead occupying herself with the newborn in her arms. 

“She is a wee one isn’t she, but very beautiful. Congratulations Donnel.” Strongbow said smiling big as he held the babe’s tiny hand. “It won’t be long before we welcome a newborn into our home Aoife. How are you feeling? Do you need to sit down?” 

“I am fine Richard.” She answered with a forced smile. Dermot then walked over and took Slaney from Aoife, to get a better look.

“How long until your baby is here Aoife?” Dermot asked with concern

“I have about a month left father.” She replied quickly. “Maybe I should go sit with Urlachen. I want to see the boys anyway.” 

As she made her escape Strongbow watched her as she left. He realized by her demeanor that he shouldn’t have called her over, it was obvious that she was still angry with her father. This in turn made him angry.

“When will she forget that boy?” He thought. He was also bitter that Dermot had used Aoife as a pawn in the arrangement knowing full well that she loved another. This fury revealed itself when Dermot turned the conversation back to the plans to make him High King. 

“Richard, Donnel has agreed to send forth their army along with mine. Combined with your men we should have no problem.” He said with a confident smile. 

“What do you mean? Why would you risk everything we have gained? I came here for land and the kingdom you promised me, you would have me risk all of that so that you can settle a score with O’Rourke and O’Conner? I am not involved in your petty rivalries, I am only interested in fulfilling my bargain and receiving my rewards!” Strongbow yelled with ferocity. 

He stood very close to Dermot and without trying was quite intimidating. Dermot was surprised by this outburst. He also felt that Strongbow was being ungrateful. His uncontrollable rage was rising and he felt the heat of fury engulfing his body. 

“How dare you raise your voice to me! If it wasn’t for me you would be in England penniless. I have given you wealth and power, more than you deserve! I gave you my first born daughter, and this is how you thank me?” He shouted with seething rage. 

“You gave me heartache! Aoife will never love me, and you are to blame. I will go the rest of my life rich and powerful, but I won’t have the wife you promised me!” Strongbow replied bitterly, yelling so loudly that Urlachen and Aoife came to see what the commotion was. 

“It is my fault that you couldn’t make her a wife? You don’t pussyfoot around with a woman, you make it known what her place is! I guess you are too weak to handle a princess.” Dermot said in a belittling tone.   Strongbow saw Aoife watching in horror at her father’s words, he tried to walk to her to shield her from the argument, but Dermot grabbed his shoulder roughly. 

“Now you will leave me before I do something I shouldn’t!” He shouted furiously. 

“I won’t leave without my wife.” Strongbow said calmly. 

“You will leave when I tell you to leave! I am still the King!” He screamed. At that moment, Dermot felt a sharp pain in his chest and a throbbing pulse in his eyes.

He couldn’t speak or move for the pain was too intense. He clutched his upper body and fell to one knee. Everyone in the room froze at the sight of Dermot falling slowly to the ground. Strongbow was closest to him so he lunged toward him to help break his fall.

Dermot fell partially into his arms and tried to speak, but the words were not audible. His face was a deep red and his body rigid. Strongbow knew this was nothing he had ever seen before.

Six months of Anguish (ch 25)

                                            

 Ch 25  MacMurrough/de Clare 

Six agonizing months passed by and Finn was still being held captive. He wondered everyday if Aoife still thought of him. She would be married to Strongbow for quite a long time now, and he had no way of knowing if she had settled into married life or if she was still waiting for him. The latter seemed close to impossible but he held onto that hope daily. His days were long and lonely and even though he was allowed to venture outside he spent many hours lying on the grass dreaming of Aoife.

When his thoughts would drift to images of her and Strongbow together, it was all he could do to press them out of his mind. Sometimes his frustration would drive him to aggressive actions. He found himself trying to climb the walls that held him inside, of course to no avail. He also found that working on his body strength would take his mind off of the situation back home. He would run, lift heavy objects and climb the tall trees within the castle grounds. They gave him books to read as well, so he read everything he could get his hands on.

The castle also had a chapel, vacant of any priests or monks, but he still went there to pray everyday. The solitude life he was living was taking its toll on Finn.  

===========================================================

Aoife and Strongbow had been married for six months when she finally found out from her father what he had done with Finn. They were having their usual discussion about her duties as a wife. He knew she still wasn’t being receptive towards her husband and he was there to once again to try to set her straight. 

 “Aoife it has been long enough. You need to come out of this dreamland you are in. Finn is not coming back! You are married to Richard. The man has been patient and good to you.” Dermot explained to his obviously unconcerned daughter. 

“Father why does this surprise you? You knew in the beginning that I didn’t want to marry him. I like Richard, but I still love Finn. Father…look at me!” She yelled slightly as she placed her hands on her growing midsection. “This is Finn’s baby. In a couple of months I will be holding a part of Finn. If I can’t have him then our baby will be enough for me.”  

“Why can’t you try? He is a good man, and he takes such good care of you. Why can’t you give him something back?” Dermot said pleading for some cooperation from his inflexible daughter. 

In her opinion, she had given Richard something she never thought she would, and even though it was a small gesture she thought it to be quite personal.  A few months into their marriage Aoife had contracted some sort of sickness. She had been ill quite a bit because of the pregnancy and Strongbow was always there at her beck and call. Since the beginning he had worked hard everyday to show her how much he loved her, and Aoife did appreciate it for she did care for him, but she couldn’t bring herself to explore any feelings that might have developed if she had let them. They still hadn’t consummated their marriage and for the first few months they never shared any real physical contact. During her bout of sickness she actually gave into Strongbow’s request one evening to lay with her and hold her.

                                                         

                                                               (flashback)

She had been very ill for a few days and he couldn’t stand seeing her suffer so. She was feverish and was somewhat confused as a result. She couldn’t seem to get warm even with the extra feather blankets he had covered her with.

Upon seeing her shiver, Strongbow climbed into her bed beside her and held her tight, hoping his body heat would radiate hers and comfort her. His arms and body engulfed her and after a while the shivering stopped allowing Aoife to fall into a deep sleep. Not wanting to wake her, he held her all night trying not to move a muscle. He eventually fell asleep as well and awoke with a smile when he realized he was finally holding the woman he loved in his arms. When Aoife awoke she didn’t remember much from the night before except that Strongbow did comfort her and that it wasn’t so terrible. 

“How are you feeling? I was so worried.” He said as he kissed her forehead tenderly. 

“I feel better. Thank you for staying with me Richard. Your arms must be stiff and tired.” She said as she broke out of his grasp gently and inched away. 

 “Actually, I loved every minute of it. I would do this every night if you would let
me.” He said hopefully, looking into her sleepy eyes. Feeling a sense of obligation combined with thankfulness for the great care he had always given her, she agreed.

“I suppose if you don’t think it would be too difficult for you, you may accompany me in my chamber at night.” She replied also realizing that news of this new sleeping arrangement would reach her father and he might leave her alone about living up to her duties as a wife. However, this did not happen, her father still met with her regularly to chastise her behavior

                                    (end flashback)

She decided not to bring up to her father during their argument of how she allowed Richard to sleep in her bed every night, for she knew he would see this as not enough. She thought it might be a good time to try to get some information out of him about Finn, as she always did.

 “Father, where have you sent Finn and when will he return? How can you continue to imprison someone who has done nothing wrong?” She asked. Actually she had asked the very same questions each time they spoke hoping one day Dermot would finally reveal his dark secret. On this particular day she would receive some answers, just not the ones she hoped for. 

“Okay Aoife, I will tell you. I have sent him to a place on the west coast of Ireland, a very remote place. And there he will stay until you are pregnant with Richard’s heir. That is what I have decided. That should keep you from abandoning your marriage.” He said sternly. It was the only way he had found to keep her from running off with Finn once he was released.  Aoife gasped and looked horrified.

“Father, I am still carrying his baby. You want to keep him imprisoned until I am pregnant again? That is cruel.” She yelled. 

“It is the only way I will know that you have settled into your marriage and are adhering to your obligations as a good wife. This should not be as hard as you are making it.” He answered calmly. Aoife was seething. She couldn’t speak to her father any longer so she turned to run out of the room, her large abdomen making it difficult to exit gracefully.

———————————————————————————————————— 

 Strongbow was frustrated. Not only did he have to sleep next to his wife every night without touching her the way he wanted to, but he also had to be anxious about Finn returning someday and potentially losing her. This was a constant worry for him and the stress was enough to kill a man, although he did keep it in check for Aoife’s sake.

      Not only did he have personal issues to deal with, he also dealt on a daily basis with his army still fighting their way through the neighboring kingdoms. He had taken control of Waterford and Dublin for Dermot and with those victories under his belt, Dermot had his mind set on becoming the High King of Ireland. Strongbow found this to be quite a reckless idea but Dermot kept insisting. Instead, Strongbow thought it would be best to build up the territories they had conquered rather than annihilate all of the lands at once. This was a constant issue between them and with that and all of his other anxieties, he was wearing down quickly.   

The time had come for a conversation with Aoife about their relationship. He had given everything he could to her and he felt that not only was she not giving anything back, but that she was pulling away the closer she came to giving birth. 

“Aoife we need to talk.” Strongbow said to his wife during their morning meal. He had resisted talking with her for a while now for he didn’t want to upset her, but the longer he waited the more anxious he became. 

“What about Richard? Is anything wrong?” Aoife asked, puzzled by the serious tone in his voice. He was usually pleasant and even jovial when she was around him. 

“I hate to bring this up, I know how fragile your condition is now, but we need to talk about this.” He replied nervously. 

“Okay Richard. I’m listening.” She said with a furrowed brow. Richard stood up and started to pace. He wanted to choose his words carefully.  

“We’ve been married six months now, a half of a whole year, and we are no closer than we were the day we were married. I have been patient Aoife, but I am starting to wonder if you have any intentions of trying to build a real marriage with me. I love you and I think I have shown that in every way I could. To be honest, it is starting to hurt Aoife. I am scared that I am going to lose you.” Richard explained slowly, feeling tension in his whole body. 

 Aoife didn’t know what to say. She knew this was coming and she felt extremely guilty that she was the cause of so much pain for someone who was so thoughtful towards her.  

“I am sorry Richard, I am so sorry. I wish it could be different. I really wish I could be the wife you deserve. I am so thankful for the kindness and love you have shown me. I do care for you…” She replied sullenly as she interrupted her, by rushing to her and grabbing her hands desperately. 

“I knew you cared for me! Please say you will try to love me, I’ll do anything for you Aoife.” Richard whispered humbly, realizing how much he had changed since his days in England. He had been reduced to begging for a woman’s affection. 

“I am trying. I try everyday.” She said sympathetically, knowing that it wasn’t entirely true. “I can’t just forget Finn. Some days I wish I could, it would make life easier for me.”  

“You feel the same way for him as before? Nothing has changed? If he were to come riding down the road on his horse someday, you wouldn’t think twice about leaving me?” He asked with tears slightly welling. 

“That isn’t going to happen Richard. My father has him imprisoned, and he won’t be releasing him until I am pregnant with your baby.” Aoife explained quickly. “So it is quite safe to say that your scenario is unlikely.” 

“I guess his plan should make me feel better, but it doesn’t. Just knowing the only reason you are with me is because you can’t have him makes it worse.” Richard admitted despondently, now wishing he hadn’t brought up the subject.  

“Richard, you knew this in the beginning.” Aoife pleaded. 

“Yes, but I expected you to get over him and want to be with me eventually.” He said with heartbreaking eyes gazing at her. 

“That isn’t to say that it won’t happen. The baby is causing me to be confused and emotional. I don’t know how to feel most days, I’ve never been through this.” She replied not knowing what else she could say to relieve his hurt. 

 “Aoife do you have any idea of the pressure I feel everyday? I have to run an army, deal with your father’s daily whims and I have to worry about King Henry in
England…”  “Why King Henry?” She asked as she interrupted.  “I have received word that he wants us to return to England. He has heard of our many victories and conquests and I think he is fearful that I will become too powerful here.” He explained. 

“Will you leave?” Aoife asked inquisitively, now knowing how to feel about this news. 

“No. I will never leave Ireland. I have come to love it here and I have a great future here.” He paused for a moment and continued.

“But all that aside, do you see how many worries I have, and not to mention the fact that I have to lie next to you every night without touching you.” 

“You said you could handle that!” She reminded him loudly. 

“Yes, for a little while, not for months. I need more, I know I am being selfish but I have always been honest with you Aoife.” He said trying to hold her hands as he tried to get her to look at him.   This was their first argument and finally Aoife became aware that Strongbow had the same fragile feelings as everyone did. He had hid his hurt and restlessness for so long, only trying to win her affection, that she didn’t realize the pain she was causing him. She was torn. She didn’t want him to hurt, but she couldn’t see how she could meet his needs. 

“I am sorry Richard. Maybe once the baby is born I can start to understand my own feelings. Hopefully with time I can start to feel more for you. I suppose I can try harder to give more of myself to you.” She conceded, wondering if maybe she should give up waiting and begin a new life with him. Her father had made it clear of his plans to keep Finn away. Maybe she was fighting for something she would never have. 

“That is all I want Aoife, a chance for us to be happy someday.” Richard replied quietly as he hugged her tenderly.

Miles apart (ch.24)

Chapter 24 MacMurrough/de Clare

The ceremony went quickly and Aoife could have sworn she heard a sigh of relief escape from her father as she uttered her meek “I do”. She saw Strongbow’s face light up as soon as the vows were completed and a perpetual smile was fixed to his face. There was no passionate wedding kiss, only a gentle peck on Aoife’s cheek, and even that felt odd to her. 

Aoife’s mom and sister took her immediately to the side once Strongbow left the room to assess her frame of mind. They noticed right away that she seemed too calm, almost expressionless.  “How are you doing dear?” Mor asked as she grabbed her daughter’s hands. She could not fathom how Aoife must be feeling. 

“I feel like I am in a whirlwind mother. The last few weeks have been emotionally draining and now my life doesn’t seem real, like I could wake up at any moment.” She answered with a hazy look in her eyes. 

“What did Lord de Clare say to you? How did he take the news of…the baby?” Urlachen asked reluctantly after she realized what she had asked. The impact of Aoife’s pregnancy had not hit any of them yet. It was all too new, not even comprehendible as of yet. 

“To my surprise, he was very accepting. He told me he has genuine feelings for me. Can you believe it? He wants to take care of me he said, how will I ever be able to let him?” She said in a low whisper. “Finn will be coming for me soon, until then I must wait patiently and keep Lord de Clare at a distance.” 

Aoife must have looked weary. The day she experienced was like no other and she was extremely tired. Strongbow noticed at once how worn out she looked so he brought his smiling face over to her. 

“Aoife, you look exhausted. Please let me take you to your chamber so you may rest. This day has been unbelievable for you. Would you excuse us ladies? You may go to the kitchen and enjoy some food and drink.” He said smiling ear to ear. 

“Yes I do need to lie down. I will see you in a little while Mother. Urlachen please stay so I may see you before you leave.” Aoife said as she hugged them and walked with Strongbow towards the stairs.

She looked back with a look of sadness and defeat as her new husband guided her by the elbow to her chamber. 

As they walked through the door she was taken aback by the beauty of the room. There was a magnificent bed with imported floral linens. There were so many flowers and plants it seemed as though Strongbow was trying to bring the outdoors inside for her. 

“I knew you loved the outdoors. I wanted you to enjoy your new chamber.” He explained as he saw her gasp. She was quite shocked at how much effort he had put into it, so she answered in a low tone. “I do like it Lord de Clare, very much.”

 “Aoife, please call me Richard. Technically I am your husband now. I am glad you like it, I have been working on it for the last few days. There are more surprises as well.” He said with his everlasting grin. He loved that she was at least talking to him now without the anger and disdain ever present in her voice before. 

“Okay Richard. I am tired, please leave me for now so that I may change my clothes, I will need privacy.” She asked wondering what his reaction would be. “I will rejoin everyone in a little while.”  She added an exaggerated yawn to hasten his departure. She desperately wanted to be alone after the life altering day she had had. 

“Okay, I will leave. Please ring for me if you need anything.” And with that he leaned to her and kissed her gently on the cheek. When his lips came toward her, Aoife closed her eyes tight and winced internally. She knew at that point that she may never get used to another mans touch. 

When he left, Aoife sat on the edge of the bed with her eyes closed imagining Finn standing with her. She could swear she felt him there. His usual smell of leather and fresh hay filled her senses. She could see his slightly chipped tooth in his smile. She could hear his sweet laughter. She could see his blonde hair, she loved how it fell into his eyes and moved with the breeze. His touch was always comforting to her even though his hands were calloused from riding. She loved when their hands melded together as they sat as one at the end of an evening. When her daydream was over she walked to the window. A single tear fell and she placed her palm on her abdomen, feeling for the warmth of the new soul growing inside her. She wished she knew where Finn was. If she knew she would climb out and go to him that moment.

—————————————————————————————-

Finn had been moved to a location unknown to him. They had traveled for days and he was unfamiliar with the area. His final destination was a small castle by the sea and by morning he knew he was in the west, for he saw the sun rise in the east over the vacant hills outside his window. His room was bigger than the other one and he was given more privileges. He was fed well and was allowed to be outdoors, which may have saved his sanity. He knew he wouldn’t be released anytime soon and escaping would be impossible, for the stone walls that surrounded the castle rose to about ten feet. King MacMurrough had gone to great lengths to ensure that Finn would remain captive there for a long time. He missed Aoife desperately, and not a moment went by that he didn’t think of her and long to be with her.

Ultimately, Finn had resolved to wait patiently for the day to come that he would be released so he could return to Leinster and to Aoife. He could only hope and pray that she would wait for him.

Two promises (ch.23)

Chapter 23 MacMurrough/de Clare

Strongbow asked for privacy to speak with Aoife. He felt he could better communicate with her if they were alone. When Aoife saw him enter the room she immediately thought he was there to tell her that he was releasing her from the marriage agreement, but felt she shouldn’t get her hopes up yet until she actually heard the words. She remained seated as he walked to her. He walked slowly, going over what he would say to her in his mind of jumbled emotions, hoping that she would at least respond slightly positive to his decision. He decided it would be best if he included her into the decision, to give her a voice rather than present it as a matter she has no choice in. He would speak to her like a partner rather than property as it was done in his country. She seemed to be used to being respected. 

As he began, his voice felt hoarse either from nerves or, fear of how she would respond.

“Aoife, I have learned of your…situation. I know you must be confused and angry with your father, and I do not blame you, but I am hoping…that you will give me a chance to show you that I do care about you. I’ll be honest, at first I felt like our arrangement would now be impossible, but after thinking a bit and recognizing my feelings for you, I think we can overcome this. I know I can.” Strongbow explained quietly yet confidently, trying to keep her gaze from straying.

 “You mean you still want to take part in this marriage?” Aoife asked surprised. 

“I do Aoife. I don’t think I could if I didn’t care about you as I do. In all honesty, I have never felt this way for anyone before, this is new to me.” Strongbow said as he smiled. “Would you please consider being my wife? The agreement is already set, but I want you to agree also.” Aoife felt sick again. She leapt up from the chair holding her mouth and ran for the nearest room with the  chamber pot. She didn’t have much left in her stomach so this time it was painful. Strongbow followed closely behind and watched her sympathetically. He wished she would let him help her.

When she was done she was surprised to see him standing behind her. She noticed much concern in his face. 

Strongbow tried to move closer to help her up and was astounded that she let him. They both stood there for a moment and Strongbow left to fetch her a cup of water, which she felt was a kind gesture. She thought to herself that at least he wasn’t a monster of a man. 

It was that moment that he thought he saw a glimpse of acceptance in her eyes. It was a nice change from the looks of contempt he was so used to. “Are you okay Aoife? That sounded awful.” He said. 

“I am fine. I didn’t know you were there.” After a long pause Aoife continued. “This whole thing doesn’t bother you? I am carrying another man’s child and you are fine with that?” She asked inquisitively for she couldn’t believe a man would be that desperate.  

“Like I said before, it is because I care for you that I am able to accept it. I want to help you, care for you and if you will let me, care for the baby as well. Your father isn’t going to change his mind Aoife. Marry me and start a whole new life with me.” He pleaded with his words as well as his eyes. 

“How do I do that? How do you just forget one person and move to the next? I know this is my fate. I know I have no choice, but I will need a lot of time to make peace with it. Can you give me that?” Aoife asked sincerely. He moved closer to her and took her hand slowly.

“I can give you all the time you need, but please promise me that once you are ready you will try to make a new life with me.” He asked as he held her hand, feeling the slight electrical waves running up his arm. 

“This will not be easy, but I am at least thankful that you are kind. I am grateful for that.” Aoife said quietly, feeling completely drained of any fight she once had in her. 

“Thank you Aoife. I think you bring out the best in me if that is possible. Will you please walk with me back to the chapel?” He asked hopefully. 

One part of Aoife wanted to run the other way as fast as she could, but where would she go?  She asked herself. She didn’t know where Finn was or what they had done to him, so she started to walk with Strongbow back to the chapel where everyone was waiting. It crossed her mind that she would be taking vows before God with this man, the vows that were not easily forgiven if broken. She had no choice though, she thought. Maybe it was time to stop fighting with everyone. One thing was for certain though, she wouldn’t forget the promise she made to Finn.

Strongbow’s Decision (ch.22)

Chapter 22 MacMurrough/de Clare

As Dermot walked into the small room, his patience had been tried and his anger was brimming. He had no time for any more distractions. This wedding needed to be finalized for Strongbow was agitated and could pull out of the deal at any moment, pulling his soldiers out of Ireland as well. Dermot’s head pounded as the stress was overwhelming. 

 “What now, what is the trouble?” he asked impatiently. He saw Aoife standing next to the priest, both of them looking solemn. His curiosity peaked and he couldn’t stand another moment of silence. “Aoife could you please explain why we are standing here rather than out there finalizing the vows.?” Aoife didn’t know how to say it, the words wouldn’t come. She stood there motionless, unable to even cry. Father Flanagan stepped in to offer help. 

“Your Majesty, your daughter needs to speak with you about something of grave importance.” He said to an obviously angered Dermot. 

“I am here waiting patiently Father. Aoife, say what you need to say.” He said quickly, thrashing his arms about with irritation. “Please hurry, we need to get this ordeal completed.” Without pausing or even thinking, Aoife blurted out the words that had been circling her thoughts repeatedly.

“Father I am with child! I am pregnant with Finn’s baby.” She almost shouted, relieved to have finally said the words. Dermot was shocked to hear such words from his unmarried daughter. He didn’t know how to reply without unleashing the rage he was feeling. For a split second he thought this could be a ploy. 

“I don’t quite understand. Is this just a way to keep you from marrying de Clare?” He asked quietly with his eyes smoldering with fury. “Or has my daughter, the princess of
Leinster, the future Queen committed the sin of…” He couldn’t’ finish the words. He was not only disappointed, he was disillusioned. How could this young girl who was raised with high standards be so reckless? He thought. 

“Father it only happened once, just before we were going to be married. We knew it was wrong.” Aoife cried, unable to accept her father’s bitter disappointment. 

Completely sidetracked, Dermot began to focus only on the situation with Strongbow. “How can I expect him to take you as your wife now? Not only are you ruined, but you have another man’s baby in your womb. This is outrageous! This was the perfect match, why did this happen? Everything is ruined.” He screamed as he lunged toward Aoife, wanting to strike her but resisting due to her condition. 

“King Dermot, please calm down. Your daughter needs your understanding and your love. She shouldn’t be mistreated, she has gone through enough.” Father Flanagan urgently suggested. 

Ignoring the priest, Dermot felt the only choice he had was to tell Strongbow and let him decide. He would have preferred to keep the whole unfortunate situation a secret, but he knew that Aoife would never remain silent. 

“Father I need to see Finn. I need to tell him, please take me to him.” Aoife pleaded. She knew he would never allow it but she was hoping for a fleeting moment of compassion from him.   

“Impossible!” Dermot answered resentfully, and highly irritated that she would even consider that now. “He has been moved!” 

“Where? Where have you taken him?” She screamed as she grabbed her father’s arm hoping to get his attention away from his own problems. 

“Did you think I would have kept him here while your wedding was taking place? That would be foolish and risky.” He answered gruffly.  

“You must take me to him Father. Why don’t you care about what I need?” She cried with heated tears.

“No, we are going to find a solution to this predicament. Are you completely certain of this Aoife? No possibility of a mistake?” Dermot asked as he calmed himself in preparation for his unavoidable meeting with Strongbow. 

“Yes I am certain. The signs and symptoms are unmistakable.” She answered quietly. “You said you would release Finn after the ceremony.” She questioned suspiciously. 

“Do you take me for a fool? I release him and then you disappear shortly thereafter. He is far away where he can cause no trouble.” Dermot replied in a low tone with disappointing eyes peering at Aoife. “But I suppose he has caused enough trouble already hasn’t he?”  Aoife looked away, feeling more hatred towards her father than ever before. “I will talk to de Clare, you stay here.” He said quietly. 

The mood in the chapel had turned from distressed to morose. Everyone was sitting quietly, except for Strongbow who was pacing the floor while waiting for their return. They had been talking for quite a bit of time and the longer they remained behind closed doors the more Strongbow grew nervous. He was used to stressful situations especially in battle, but this was painfully distressing. He wished he could just turn and leave, enforcing the powerful façade he had been displaying, but not only was his promise of succession at stake, he didn’t want to give up on Aoife. 

A few moments passed and King Dermot emerged from the room. His skin looked pale and surely there was something distressing on his mind.“Lord, may I have a word with you please?” Dermot asked quietly. Strongbow’s stomach dropped. He felt extremely nervous and anxious but he tried to remain composed. 

“What is it Your Majesty?” he replied as he walked quickly across the room. His shoes slammed against the wood floor with a sense of urgency. As he walked closer he whispered under his breath to Dermot. “I am losing my patience.” 

When they were in the room he saw Aoife sitting with the priest, she looked nervous. Her face was red and her eyes were swollen, which was the look he was used to. He felt this urge to go over and try to hold her gently and show her that he cared for her, but he knew this would only upset her so he opted for a comforting smile. She responded by looking down.  

“We have a problem.” Dermot said nervously. He wasn’t sure if he should just blurt it out or stall for time to think of a better way to tell him. After deciding to just get it over with, he drew in a deep breath and relayed the potentially damaging news. “My daughter has come to realize a significant circumstance. She is most likely with child. The child of the man we took prisoner.” Dermot said this while looking straight into Strongbow’s confused eyes. 

“What do you mean? You said she was virginal. Did you purposely deceive me?” He asked with anger. He didn’t really believe that King Dermot was untrustworthy, but it was the only thing he could think of to say. 

“I did not know. She has informed me that the one incident occurred not much more than a month ago. I had no knowledge of it.” Dermot pleaded. 

Strongbow felt ill himself. How could so much go wrong for one simple wedding, he thought. He put his hands to his forehead and began to perspire. He was surely hoping to win her affection, he wanted to marry her but thought that it may not be the right thing to do. He then remembered about the situation of the kingdom, which was the only reason he was there. He had to marry her if he was to ever have anything substantial for him and his family. 

 “How could this be?” He asked Dermot. He took another glance of Aoife. She was sitting anxiously, staring at the ground looking miserable. He couldn’t see himself leaving Ireland and Aoife behind. He almost wished he hadn’t been told. In a fast pace, he walked out of the room and out of the chapel. He found himself on the grounds outside appreciating the fresh air. His brother William followed quickly behind, bewildered as to what was taking place. 

“Brother, slow down. What is the matter?” He yelled ardently. Strongbow stopped but didn’t face him. He leaned over and held his head in his hands and let out an exasperated moan. 

“What am I to do? Tell me what should I do?” He said as he turned around to face his brother. 

“First tell me the problem then I’ll tell you what you should do.” He answered in an amusing tone. 

“Oh no, even you can’t solve this one. Aoife is with child. She just told her father today. What do I do now?” He sat down in a heap on the grass unable to ease his astonishment. “I like this woman William. I mean I really like her. Now it’s all impossible.” He admitted wholeheartedly looking up at his brother. 

 “Okay, so what about the kingdom, the lands, and King Henry’s agenda? Have you thought of this? You need to marry her. We can’t return to England without the probability of banishment.” William asked with an earnest expression. 

“Yes I know, but how can I compete with the other man now when she will have his baby as a constant memory of him?” He asked.  

 “It shouldn’t be about the girl, it is about accomplishing the task at hand. Marry her on paper only, then focus on what we came to do.” William appealed eagerly. 

“I don’t want to marry just for tactical reasons. I feel something I have never felt before.” He relayed sincerely to his brother, not feeling any awkwardness about displaying his feelings. 

“Well then, marry her and do what you can to win her over. Let her know that you are truly accepting of her having the child.” He hesitated then began again.

“If I were you I would avoid the emotional aspect of marriage, it complicates everything.” Strongbow ignored his brother’s words of advice.

“Let’s return to the chapel. I will speak to her alone and we will proceed with the ceremony.” He said feeling more at ease with the situation. He knew this would not be easy, but he genuinely felt that she would be worth the effort.

Revelation (ch 21)

Chapter 21.  MacMurrough/de Clare

“Yseult,”
by Sir Frank Dicksee

The next few moments were a blur for Aoife. Despite the embarrassment she felt, she also came to the realization that she may in fact be pregnant with Finn’s baby. As she lay on all fours, trying to compose herself, she knew she didn’t want to go back into the room where everyone stood in anticipation of her return.

She didn’t want to face anyone for her expression would reveal her bittersweet secret. She loved Finn, and something as wonderful as the creation of a child through that shared love shouldn’t be considered so horrific. However, her situation proved differently. If her father hadn’t interfered and forced her to marry this Norman noble, she and Finn would be celebrating this wondrous occasion. A hand rested on her shoulder, she turned to see that it was her mother’s soothing touch, and her sisters comforting eyes gazing down at her. They helped her to her feet and Aoife’s red eyes began to shed tears once again.   

“I don’t want to go back there.” Aoife whispered. “I am so afraid.” 

“I understand Aoife, but you really have no choice. I wish that I could put a stop to this to this whole ordeal, but it is impossible. Take a few minutes to calm down, and we’ll take you to get some water to freshen up.” Mor said to her daughter sympathetically, trying desperately to be strong for her.  

Father Flanagan appeared at that moment looking concerned. “May I speak with Aoife in the other room please Your Highness? Aoife, would you mind talking with me for a moment?” The young priest suggested.  Initially Aoife resisted, but she knew she could trust him as he was the only other person in the room who knew her secret. Her resistance turned to a need for someone to talk with about her circumstances.

“Of course Father.” Aoife said lowly as she walked with him. Would you please tell the others we will be a few minutes, they are quite restless.” He said as he took her hand and led her into a private room. 

After a moment of silence Aoife began to release her troubles. “Father, please forgive me for what I am about to tell you.” She begged despairingly. “I am afraid I may be with child. I wasn’t sure before, but now I am confident that I am.” 

With this confession he looked toward the ceiling and took a deep breath.

 “Your circumstances are surely troubling. When your father made me aware of the marriage between you and Lord de Clare, I did worry about this being a probability.” The priest said calmly trying to remain comforting rather than judgmental. He had been disapproving enough during the initial confession weeks ago. 

“What do I do Father? I don’t want to marry this man, I want to marry Finn. My father is forcing me into this marriage.” She asked urgently, starting to weep once again.

“You need to tell your father and Lord de Clare the truth. Let them decide if this marriage should go forth with your recent revelation.” He said firmly. 

“My father will be furious and I will be shamed by everyone.” Aoife exclaimed as a new thought entered her mind providing a glimmer of some much needed hope. “Perhaps Lord de Clare will not want to take me as a wife if he knew I am carrying another man’s child.”

 “This could be a possibility, but you owe it to him and to God to make this condition known so there is no deception involved in the sanctity of this marriage.” The priest advised carefully. He cared about Aoife, he had known her since he arrived a few years ago and he knew that she had a kind heart and a good soul. This mistake she had made had already been forgiven, he hoped she wouldn’t have to keep paying for it the rest of her life.  

 “I should tell my mother first.” Aoife informed with reluctance as she sat down, exhausted by the emotions she felt. 

“I will get your mother for you…God will be with you Aoife.” He reminded her with a sincere smile. 

While he was gone Aoife began to worry about what her family would say. Her mother would be stunned but compassionate; her father would be out of his mind with anger, and her sister she expected would be supportive yet disappointed. Urlachen had always been overly traditional, Aoife didn’t think she could be set aside her catholic teachings. However, she knew her sister would remain by her side. A few moments later the priest, Mor and Urlachen walked into the small room where Aoife’s nightmare would surface.  

Meanwhile, still inside the chapel, King Dermot and Strongbow awaited Aoife’s return. They were both irritated at the delay, but Strongbow was growing increasingly impatient. The anxious looks from his brother William from across the room didn’t help either.

“Your Majesty, I would really like to proceed with this, I hope this isn’t going to be a regular occurrence with your daughter. I really like Aoife but I don’t have the patience for this. This wedding will go through right?” Strongbow relayed to King Dermot restlessly. He was keeping with his façade of a strong, tough soldier unwilling to compromise, but inside he knew he would wait an awfully long time for this girl he just recently met. Just the sight of her made him weak inside. 

“No worries, just nerves is all. She will be right back.” Dermot assuredly reasoned, hoping this day would come to an end soon with the completion of these vows. Everything was riding on it.

Mor and Urlachen walked into the room anxiously, not realizing the bombshell news they were about to discover.

“What is it Aoife? Are you okay?” Mor asked in a worried manner. 

“I do have something I wish to speak with you about, although I don’t know how to say it because I am terribly ashamed.” She said timidly avoiding eye contact. 

“Whatever it is Aoife, you can certainly confide in us. We love you.” Urlachen answered quite nervous about what she was about to hear. 

“I know I just don’t want to disappoint you…” She hesitated briefly and continued. “I have already spoken to Father Flanagan about it…about three or four weeks ago something happened between Finn and I. We knew it was a mistake but it just happened, I have no explanation for it.” As she began to clarify, she paused to look up hoping that they understood what she was saying and from the look in their eyes, she knew she didn’t need to explain further. “Now I am most assured that I am with child as a result of that night.”

 Urlachen gasped and Mor had to sit down. They both knew that this should be wonderful news, but on this occasion it was more of a devastating revelation. Mor immediately worried about how Dermot would react. Urlachen at once reasoned that Aoife was being punished by the sinful act that had occurred. She loved her sister dearly and only wanted to show her support, she would have to hide her disappointment. 

“Oh my dear Aoife, whatever shall we do now?  Does Finn know?” Mor asked while she hugged her tightly. 

‘No he doesn’t. We talked about the possibility of it.” With the mentioning of Finn’s name came another onslaught of tears. Her mother and sister took turns holding her to reassure her that everything would be okay. 

“Mother do you think Strongbow would want to marry me if he knew? Maybe this is my saving grace.” Aoife asked hopefully.   “Do you wish to tell your father and him?” Mor asked surprised once again by Aoife’s braveness. 

“In all respect Your Highness, I feel that would be in her best interest that she be honest and forthcoming.” Father Flanagan interjected. 

“Of course Father.” Mor answered, forgetting he was in the room. “Would you like me to tell your father Aoife?” 

“I would love for you to tell him mother, but I think I should. You have been through enough of my battles with him. Father Flanagan, will you stay with me while I talk with him?” She asked expectantly, she hoped that her father would be less angry and hostile if the priest accompanied her. 

“Of course Aoife.” He answered solemnly.

The Wedding (ch. 20)

 

(An actual painting of the wedding of Strongbow and Aoife, painted many years after the actual event)

Chapter 20 MacMurrough/De Clare

The day of the wedding Aoife awoke dreading the day that lay ahead of her. Her mother had left her wedding dress laying out for her to wear, but Aoife had decided that she wouldn’t wear the dress that was specifically made for her wedding to Finn that should have occurred the week before. She would find something more plane and suitable for a day of sorrow rather than joy.  Mor and Urlachen would be there for Aoife, not to support the marriage but to be there for her, for they knew this day would be difficult and heart wrenching for an already fragile Aoife. They helped her get ready in silence, neither wanting to bring up the day ahead, but rather keeping the conversation light and off topic. It was all they could do to keep from bursting into tears, the look on Aoife’s face was agonizing. 

Strongbow awoke with a smile. He never imagined he would be so eager to marry, he never entertained the idea before. At first he considered this union to be more of a strategic move, never did he imagine that he would be so besotted with a woman. There was a mystical attraction that he had never experienced before. He rose out of bed, washed and dressed carefully, taking care to look especially fine for his bride. 

The day before he had made an unplanned visit to Finn’s holding chamber below and was somewhat surprised at his appearance. Finn wasn’t at all what he had expected. He was strong, not exactly a big man, but he seemed like he could hold his own. He was pleased to see that he was rather scruffy and not as distinguished as himself. He didn’t see what the attraction could be. As he walked in he took on a threatening demeanor and was determined to scare this boy who was at least ten years his junior. 

“You! Boy, get up!” He yelled at a sleeping Finn.

“Who are you?” Finn asked furiously as he had only seen Dermot’s advisor to deliver him food and water while he had been there. 

“I am Strongbow, the man who will wed Aoife tomorrow morning.” He replied rather smugly. He was bigger than Finn and more intimidating, but this did not alarm Finn. Although, at this admission Finn felt rage intensifying within him. He wanted to take hold of this arrogant being and eradicate him, if he had had his sword it wouldn’t take but a minute.

 “I know this was forced upon you, but if you lay one hand on her I will kill you.” Finn threatened. 

 “Don’t be a menace boy. After tomorrow she will belong to me to do whatever I please.” He said, taunting Finn. With this comment he lunged at him with every will in his body. Strongbow then grabbed his dagger and put it to Finn’s throat. “I could very easily make all of this much simpler right this minute. Come near her and your days will end.” Strongbow warned violently. 

“You think by killing me you will gain her favor?” Finn asked with a gritted fierce voice.

‘I won’t need her favor, she will be mine.” He answered flippantly, knowing very well that he needed to win her love as well. “Don’t cross me boy. Go about your life, Aoife stays with me.”

Strongbow turned slightly to leave, but his stare still penetrated Finn’s eyes. When the door slammed tight, Finn was distraught with despair.

When Dermot arrived to bring Aoife and Mor to the chapel, he felt elated. This day would put to rest the bargain he made with Strongbow. All debts would be paid and Dermot would have his kingdom to rule for many years to come until his death. His bloodline would continue the royal tradition. Aoife’s future son would rule Leinster, and Urlachen’s son Donnchad would rule neighboring Thomand. His lineage would be passed through the generations as well as his name. A big return for all that he had to endure. 

The chapel was fittingly decorated. Father Flanagan stood stoically at the alter, somewhat unsure about the circumstances. When Aoife was brought in, Father Flanagan gave her a knowing look, for he had taken her confession the week before.

Dermot had explained to him the situation and the priest could only give Aoife a look of sympathy with a hint of shame behind it. There were only three people in the world who knew what had happened that night in the cottage. Aoife positioned herself and stared at the ground, avoiding his eyes. Disbelief encompassed her expression as she felt like this could all be a dream, a dream that could end any minute. Her mother and Urlachen stood by her for support. It had entered Mor’s mind briefly that she could very well catch her this time if she fainted. 

When Strongbow entered with his brother William and his nephew Edward, he walked straight to Mor to greet her warmly. Mor didn’t want to be impolite so she was cordial. She couldn’t blame him solely, for it wasn’t his handiwork which designed this unpleasant union. That honor belonged to Dermot with whom she didn’t even make eye contact with, not that he noticed even slightly. He was in a hurry to get these nuptials over and done with, so he hurried everyone into their positions. 

 

At the beginning of the ceremony, Aoife felt a rush of blood flood her face, and she began to breathe rapidly. Strongbow stood there proudly gazing at her but with a sense of urgency towards the priest to make haste. Aoife stared downward focusing on the stone floor trying to steady herself. While Father Flanagan proceeded with the service, he noticed a change in the coloring of her face. He was concerned for her so he asked her if she needed to sit. Both Dermot and Strongbow interjected immediately. 

“My daughter is well. You are well aren’t you Aoife?” Dermot asked quickly. 

“Everyone is nervous on their wedding day.” Strongbow said with a forced chuckle which was only joined by his brother William. 

“Yes, I am well father.” Aoife answered quietly, feeling her stomach flutter, most likely form hunger she thought. That flutter turned into a knot and Aoife felt herself sweating slightly. Her stomach took a turn for the worse and then without warning Aoife fled in a dead run for the door, only to become sick on the green carpet of grass outside the chapel door.