The Black Rose

Chapter seven

The next day, I was roused around noon. I packed my things, placed my sword around my waist, and came down the stairs.

“What is that around your waist?” Joshua asked nodding toward my sword

I thought that I had it hidden better than I did, and I guess that I was wrong.

“That is my sword.” I said nonchalantly, bringing it around.

“You carry a sword?” He asked

“Yes.” I said

He did not say anything else, but instead gave me a plate with some food on it. After I finished eating, he escorted me to the carriage.

“I wish that you did not have to go.” He said as we reached my gates only half an hour later.

“I know,” I replied, “But there are some things that I must do. Also, I will be sending someone to tell you that I have departed. He will be your companion until I return, as that is his orders.”

He nodded then kissed me on the lips then he kissed my hand, leaving his lips lingering longer than they should have.

He bowed and replied, “Will I see you upon your return?”

“Of course.” I replied with a chuckle

He smiled then turned to leave. I watched him go, and when I was sure that he was gone, I turned on my heels and dashed through the doors. I packed everything that I might need for the next few weeks.

I had just finished bringing my suitcases down when there was a knock at the door. I opened it and I saw Johnathan standing there, his back to me.

“You are early.” I spoke and he jumped then turned around to face me.

“Yes, I am always punctual.” He replied with a smile

“So I have noticed. Will you help me with my luggage?” I asked

“Of course, My Liege.” He said and bowed

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With one swift move, he picked up all four suitcases, carried them to his carriage, and hoisted them to the top. He held out his arm for me to get into the carriage, then he closed the door, then he positioned himself into the driver’s seat. I heard the c***k of the reigns as they struck the horses, and we were off. We would head to the church first, to pick up Thomas, then we would head for the docks. We arrived at the church fifteen minutes later. We jumped off of the carriage and stepped into the throng of people that was there to see us off. I was surprised to see that even William was there, after last night’s quarrel, I would have thought that he would not have wanted to see me. We were showered with hugs, goodbyes, and good lucks.

“Thomas,” I called

“Yes, My Liege?” He inquired

“I want you to come with Johnathan and myself to the docks.” I replied

“Of course.” He replied with earnest

“Great. Let us go then.” I said with a smile

The three of us went to the carriage and then climbed on the top. Thomas rode on the inside because there was only room for two on the top where the driver’s seat was.

We made it to the docks in half an hour, and on the far end of the docks stood my ship, The Rose. I climbed off of the top of the carriage and started to walk ahead.

“Follow me, please.” I asked Johnathan

He clicked his tongue and the horses started a slow walk behind me. When we reached The Rose, Johnathan stopped the carriage, then jumped off of the top. He started unloading the luggage, so he could load it onto the ship.

“Thomas, why don’t you go and help him out.” I suggested

“Yes, of course.” He replied rather nervously and then went to help him unload the luggage.

Once the luggage was loaded onto the ship, we stopped to say our goodbyes.

“Goodbye Thomas,” I said “And do not forget your orders. I really do not like it when people disobey my orders.”

“Goodbye Anna, and do not worry, I will be your faithful servant, as always.” He Whispered in my ear as he hugged me.

Johnathan took my hand and led me up the plank and onto the deck. We watched Thomas drive away into the sunset, then we removed the ropes and raised the anchor, then we set sail.

“Johnathan, there is someone that I want you to meet when we arrive in Spain.” I said

“What is his name?” He replied

“His name is Alexander Rodriguez.” I replied