The Hampton Tale
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This story will describe the entire events surrounding lava and My adventures regarding the properties We owned in Southern England. As you know from our biography, that's where We both came from.

Chapter One
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In March of 1317, I was just finishing our bio on Story Night when seth interrupted me. He said that a messenger had arrived in MacLaaran looking for me. I told seth to usher him in. The lad wore livery that I recognized immediately, that of Lord Edward Hampton, the gentleman that owned the small castle near the Southern England village that bore His name. Yes, the village that was burned to the ground in the same attack that cost my mother and father their lives.

I knew that Lord Edward had rebuilt Hampton into a thriving and wealthy village over the years, but I just had ne'er been able t' bring M'self t' return, even for a mere visit. The mental anguish of even seeing the poor lad brought memories I tried t' avoid.

The lad bowed and offered Me the envelope, which carried the seal of Lord Edward. I thanked the lad and bade seth t' take him in the scullery where cookie could offer him food and drink.

After staring at the envelope for several minutes, I opened it. Inside was a letter and the title t' M' father's lands.

Dear Sir Kyle Athel,
It has taken several years to locate Ye, Kyle. I hope this letter finds Thee in good health. Your family property still lies in ruins, much as Ye left it after that terrible raid that took Your parents lives. I can understand why Ye never returned.

Things have improved extensively here. The village has prospered, My castle has grown and My youngest son, Phillip, has turned into a fine strapping young man. Which brings Me to the reason for this letter.

It seems a waste to let Your property sit there like that, especially since Ye no longer appear to have any interest in rebuilding. I would like to make Ye an offer to purchase the land, as is. Since My elder son, Walter, will inherit Hampton Castle, Phillip is interested in building His own manor and that property of Yours suits His taste.

My offer is one thousand pounds of good English gold sovereigns. I've enclosed a copy of the title of the land, which I requested from King Edward II of England. If Ye agree, please sign over the title and send it back with the messenger. Within a month I'll have delivered, by guarded carriage, a chest containing the aforementioned gold sovereigns.

Respectfully Yours,
Lord Edward Hampton

lava asked Me what I planned to do about this offer. I told her it looked like I'll be finally making a long avoided trip back t' M' homelands. It seemed wise t' hand carry the title back and gain a clear understanding o' what might be happening there.

Of course she wanted to go along and reminded me of the upcoming Spring Fling. I quelled her fears in that regard. I said that I would send a message back with the messenger, saying I would be leaving for Hampton on March 24th and should arrive to discuss their offer on or about April 7th.

I suggested that lava and I make a trip to Gaspard t' see her mum and sister this week. My memory said that kate might have even worked for Lord Edward at some point. It might be interesting t' hear her memories o' Hampton and Lord Edward.

Our trip to Gaspard certainly started out like many of the past. kate and abby were thrilled to see us until I mentioned My plan to make a trip back to Our original homeland, Hampton on the southern shores of England. It was lava's mum, kate, that reacted so strongly, insisting that we not make the trip.

On Saturday, while lava and abby were off shopping, kate actually brought the trip up again, insisting that if I felt I had to go back to Hampton, that I go alone and leave lava at home. There's something kate obviously fears there, but she clammed up when I pressed her.

I've always been a curious man and kate's attitude only makes the trip something I believe We now have to do. My plans were to leave MacLaaran on March 24th, right after the MacLaaran Spring Fling. It's 400 miles to Hampton and in order not to press the horses, it will take 14 days to get there. I kept convincing lava that this time we can afford to take Our time and enjoy the trip.

At dawn, on Monday, March 24th, lava and I left MacLaaran on horseback heading 10 miles south to Gaspard where W/we met with her mum, kate, and her sister abby for breakfast. kate was still extremely aggravated that W/we were making the trip to Hampton in southern England. I reassured her that this was purely to investigate the situation there before deciding whether to indeed sell My Athelhampton estate to Lord Phillip Hampton.

We stopped at Emaine Macha Monday night, then left early Tuesday morning, hoping to reach the English border by nightfall. My plans were to spend the night in Hawick, a village right at the border. Both Blaze and lava's mare, Millie, were holding up quite well, Tuesday was a test since We planned to cover almost 35 miles. At least the weather had been decent.

W/we made it to Hawick late Tuesday night, found a room at an inn with a tavern and had dinner there. I listened closely to various conversations as others ate or drank. It appeared that there had been some confrontations at the border between the English and the Scots. Recent raids by some Vikings a few months ago had the English a tad testy.

So, Wednesday morning I pestered a sleepy lava out o' bed and We left just before dawn. Instead of using the main road across the border, We headed east about a mile, entered the forest on the south and forded a creek. lava was a tad nervous, but Blaze and Millie handled the crossing quite well. We were now back on English soil, Northumberland.

I intentionally stayed off the main roads, and We found a farm where they actually fed us lunch. All and all a successful crossing and We were headed south, hoping to reach Durham by nightfall.

A note from lava's journal

Thursday night, March 27
*taking my journal from the travel bag, i sit before the fire to write while Kyle brushes the horses*

It has been a pleasant trip thus far. Blaze and Millie are holding up fine, even after the extra time on the road the past couple of days. But W/we made it into Durham on schedule last night, and tonight W/we arrived in North Yorkshire before nightfall, as Kyle had planned. Tis a quaint, friendly village, but rather small. There were no available rooms to rent, but this actually was nae a problem. The weather is grand and Kyle and i are camping under the stars tonight. The grass is soft and the furs will protect U/us from the chill in the air.

I can nae help but wonder how Kyle will feel upon seeing His homeland again...such painful memories there. But He is a strong soul, and finally having His estate settled will be a huge weight off His shoulders. i can nae help but wonder how O/our lives would have turned out if that deadly raid long ago had never happened. Twas the result of that horrible day that actually brought Kyle and i together. But i believe in my heart that W/we would have been together, regardless of how the events had played out.

Time for sleep. Kyle wakes me too damn early these days! …. *closing my journal and putting it away, meeting Kyle at the furs and snuggling in for the night

We awoke Friday morning in Our furs just south of Harrogate in North Yorkshire. lava made breakfast o'er a small fire, while I surveyed the maps. I was trying to decide whether t' lengthen the trip south t' stop in Windstorm Castle. It would cost Us a day, but We had some friends there. Traveling this far and not stopping would not be polite, so the decision was made. We took the route t' the west and headed for Manffield in Nottinghamshire.

Maybe My decision t' stop in Windstorm was just t' delay reaching Athelhampton one more day? lava smiled, but said nothing. I'm sure she felt the apprehension in Me.

The weather held up, sunny, clear and in the 60's, so We made good time. We arrived in Manffield in time to get a room in the Rutland Square Inn. Friday night We made the short trip to Windstorm.

With another day o' good weather, I felt We could stop in Windstorm and still reach The White Swan in Harringworth, a medium size village in Northhamptonshire by Saturday.

The visit to Windstorm was interesting, even though the castle was almost empty. We were entertained by a delightful young Lady who explained why the King and Queen were away. After a nice evening meal and chats by the fire, We were shown to a spare chamber for the night.

We had breakfast there and were on our way early Sunday morning. We managed to make the 20 miles between Peterborough and Harringworth before nightfall. We got a room at The White Swan and enjoyed a delicious meal o' roast pork and somethin' called chittlins.

I let lava talk Me into dancin', but that led t' some grief. A large local farmer had an eye fer the lassies and decided lava might be fun. In spite of her objections, he grabbed her arm and started draggin' her out on the floor. I was up immediately and a little ruckus began. Luckily, the owner knew the drunken farmer and laid a billy on his head before I had t' deal wi' him.

It's hard t' explain why lava felt guilty later in Our room, but that's the way o' Our lassies. I let her make up fer both the ruckus and M' dip in the lake. *chucklin'*

Monday mornin' I plan t' be off again early, headin' fer Bletchley in Buckinghamshire. Realizing that lava is both tired and apprehensive as W/we get closer to Hampton, I decide it's time for only a short and more leisurely ride. Although the threat of rain is in the air, the sun pops out and We stopped for a picnic type lunch in a meadow near Leighton.

We're barely on Our way when the storm hits and We rode the next ten miles in heavy rain. We got a room at the Aylesbury Inn, and enjoyed the warmth of a fireplace during dinner. The bed was warm and cozy, but We laid awake talking for hours, neither of Us able to sleep.

Tomorrow We'll be in Hampshire County, and hopefully reach Hampton by nightfall. Ten long hard days on the road. We agreed that finding an inn and resting before venturing out on Thursday to see My old estate would be wise. Only after I've seen the place and listened to the local gossip, will I be ready to discuss terms of sale with Lord Edward Hampton.

Chapter Two - Thursday, April 3rd
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I made up for the lack of sleep on Tuesday night by actually sleeping in on Thursday morning. We were finally in Hampton. lava was still snuggled under M' arm when I woke up, but as soon as I stirred she was up and hustling about.

I studied her face closely, "ye look a little tense, kitten. I hope yer not still fretting o'er that old woman ye saw least night."

she tried to smile, but it was obvious she was still upset. The old woman had stared at lava as if she had seen a ghost.

After a quick wash in the basins and a morning shave, I took her downstairs for breakfast. The tavern at the Hampton Inn was bustling, some having an early lunch while We ate eggs, bacon and hot rolls. I tried t' listen t' the various conversations and it was clear that many worked on tenant farms owned by Lord Edward Hampton.

I motioned the Hampton Inn owner o'er and he sat wi' Us and drank his coffee while I sipped M' tea. He said that Lord Hampton had bought up most of the land after the raid that burned out almost all of the farms and the village. I asked if his castle had been attacked and he said apparently not. The raiders must have feared the castle guards were a tad too much for just twenty men.

After breakfast We picked up the horses at the stable and headed off for M' old family estate. As We rode out o' town, I saw the old woman and her table in front o' the abandoned shoppe. She was watchin' Us and even I felt a little shiver as Our eyes met. No wonder she scared poor lava t' death.

It was only a short ride t' Athelhampton so We were there by noon. Although the remains o' the manor were grown o'er, I noted that somebody was using the fields as grazing land for cattle and sheep.

We wandered around, and of course memories o' that tragic day engulfed Us both. Since M' parents bodies were destroyed in the flames, there were no graves t' grieve o'er. We said prayers on their behalf at the growth covered stone remains o' the manor.

Then We rode around the entire estate. The land is quite fertile and I could see why the Hamptons desired the property. By the time We returned t' the village it was late, almost dark, so We enjoyed a decent meal at the inn, and I spoke wi' a few of the local farmers.

There were mixed opinions about Lord Edward and his treatment o' the locals. Some were glad t' just have a place t' work, while other's felt Lord Edward had taken advantage of the raid t' buy up the land at a pittance o' it's value. I spent the evenin' doing M' own estimate o' the current value o' the property.

"Tomorrow, lava, We'll visit Lord Edward and make a counter offer."

Friday morning We ate a nice relaxed breakfast at the Hampton Inn, then rode Blaze and Millie o'er t' Castle Hampton, which lies 5 miles east o' the village o' Hampton. After a light rain all night, it was sunny and around 55 degrees, a pleasant ride o'er a well cared for road.

We crossed the drawbridge and were greeted warmly at the main gate. One of the guards hurried inside and a senior servant named harold, looking much like Our seth, came out to greet Us and guide Us into the Great Hall. He said that Lord Edward Hampton was aware We had arrived and would join Us promptly.

A pretty young servant brought Us tea and fresh baked scones. I walked around the Great Hall, smiling at a huge painting o' King Edward II. Lord Edward Hampton arrived a few minutes later with his wife, Lady Josephine Hampton at His side.

We went through the normal greetings, but it seemed obvious that Edward was surprised when He first laid eyes on lava. I could tell lava was uncomfortable, either because another servant was waiting on Us hand and foot, or because Edward kept staring at her.

In order t' break the tension, I suggested that Edward and I adjourn t' someplace private t' discuss the possible transfer o' ownership o' My estate. He took Me into his study, a rather large room where He obviously conducted most o' His business. The wall was covered wi' a huge map o' the Hampton area and My father's property was clearly defined just west o' the village.

I informed Him that I had ridden around the 100 acres that was now My property. The creek still flowed briskly and the forest portion was filled wi' singing birds. I mentioned the fact that the fields were being used for both cattle and sheep. He smiled and said that since the land was just there unused, he saw no reason not t' graze his cattle there. They did maintain the fences in return. I agreed wi' a smile, thanking Him for caring for the land in my absence.

He finally asked if the offer o' 1000 pounds suited Me after seeing the current condition o' the estate. I just smiled and gave Him my counter offer, 8, 000 pounds. His face drained o' color and He stammered a bit.

Before He could say more, I explained that if a manor was erected on top o' the hill and the land was put t' proper use, the value would increase ten fold. His offer o' 10 gold sovereigns per acre might be reasonable for barren land, but the forest and stream plus the raised land where the original manor was built was worth much more.

I got up, asked Him t' think o'er M' offer. That I intended t' remain in Hampton for a few days, then head back for MacLaaran. If he chose t' pass on purchasing the land, We could arrange a rental for grazing His cattle and sheep there. I was sure that some tenant farmers might be pleased t' also rent some o' the cleared land.

Edward was not a happy man when We returned t' the Great Hall where his wife was showing lava some o' her quilting skills. Lady Josephine kept insisting that We stay for dinner and spend the night there in the guest chambers. I agreed, saying that would allow another conversation in the morning when Edward had found some time t' think o'er My counter offer.

Something happened that night between lava and Lord Phillip Hampton, but she didn't tell Me what happened at the time. The following morning was tense and I knew Edward needed more time to consider My offer so We bed them goodbye and headed back to Our rooms in Hampton.

Monday morning April 7th, We decided to have breakfast at small tavern called The Horn o' Plenty, down the street from the Hampton Inn. I knew lava was still quite nervous about returning t' Hampton Castle and I wanted her t' at least enjoy Our visit here. During breakfast, I kept reassuring her that everything would work out fine. Yes, Edward was upset o'er My offer, but I sure had no intentions o' handing the land o'er t' Him and His son for a mere 1000 gold sovereigns.

My plans were t' visit again today and negotiate a bit. My bottom figure was at least 5,000 sovereigns. If Edward wouldn't budge, I'd start renting out the land t' various tenant farmers. O'er the weekend I had asked several men at the Inn what they were paying a year for tenant land rented from Lord Edward, so I was well prepared now for serious negotiations.

We were almost finished eating breakfast when the tavern owner's wife came out t' present Our bill o' fare. She stopped in her tracks and stared at lava. "Heavens lass, yer the spitting image o' kate!…. I could have sworn ye were her."

As I counted out 3 shillings for the meal and 2 pence for a tip, the woman kept chattering wi' lava. "Has Lord Edward seen ye yet, lassie? ye know yer mum worked out there for years, at least until she was wi' child and Edward sent her away. kate worked here after that. When were ye born, lass? Gosh, ye could be anna, the child I often rocked t' sleep in the back while kate waited tables here at night."

I fetched the horses while lava sat and chatted wi' the woman. Then We were off again, heading back east t' Hampton Castle.

We arrived at Hampton Castle just in time for lunch wi' Lord Edward and his eldest son, Lord Walter Hampton. Lady Josephine didn't attend, claiming a headache. There was tension in the air, but the conversations were restricted mostly to Our current lives in Scotland. I could feel Edward probing Me to make sure I wasn't planning to return to England and resurrect Athelhampton Myself.

After lunch, Walter took lava on a tour of the castle while I met wi' Edward in His study again. He raised his offer to 3000 sovereigns and I countered wi' 6000. He became extremely agitated and said 3000 was his top offer, take it or leave it.

I rose, smiled, and told Him I wouldn't accept that and had already begun making plans to start renting the property to tenant farmers, similar to His operations. I advised Him that He had one month to have his cattle and sheep off my land before I began charging Him rent based on the amount of grazing land He required.

We were on Our way down the hall when We heard a ruckus up ahead in the library. Edward led the way into the library where a tall man had lava pinned to the bookcases attempting to kiss her.

Edward screamed, "PHILLIP, leave her alone, she's Your half sister for God's sake."

I deftly stepped around Edward and caught the man with a hard right hand. He went down like a sack of potatoes. I tucked lava inside my arm and stared at Edward. "Tell Phillip when He wakes up, if he ever touches lava again, I'll cut off both His hands."

We left Hampton Castle immediately, and on the way back to the inn I asked lava just what had transpired after I went off to meet with Edward.

I had to wait until We were safely back in Our room at the inn before lava told me that was the second time Lord Phillip had seen her, the first time in the hall the first night we stayed at the castle. They had words that night and she had fled to Our chambers, hoping it We could leave before I wound up in a fight.

I decided to spend a few days negotiating with a few of the local farmers regarding rentals of My Athelhampton property. I did find a strong young farmer named Willard Smithe that was willing to rent some of my land. In return for overseeing the rest of my property, I agreed he would only pay half of the annual fee for ten acres bordering on one side of the creek.

He'll make sure that Lord Edward's cattle leave the property or pay rent. Willard will begin renting other portions o' the land, collect the rents and send them quarterly to Me in MacLaaran along wi' a message describing the current conditions.

After a hearty meal at the inn, We retired and took a few minutes to once again discuss what had transpired. I knew she needed those few days to recover from the shocking news. Based on everything We've heard, it certainly appears that lava's real father might indeed be Lord Edward Hampton.

I had no idea what Lord Edward's intentions were then, since I'd refused his offer to purchase My land. Possibly, things will settle down a bit and He'll realize My offers were indeed reasonable and He'll make another offer. Since He has admitted that lava is indeed His daughter, will He include her in His will? How will His sons react? His wife certainly wasn't happy wi' the situation.

The following day, lava and I left Hampton and headed for home in MacLaaran.

In spite of the rapid pace home to MacLaaran, the horses held up well, although they both needed re-shod upon Our return.

I knew lava would want to stop in Gaspard and discuss the situation wi' her mum. I'm sure kate's intentions were t' protect her daughter, but lava isn't real pleased wi' the way We learned the truth. Hopefully, they can resolve this situation quickly and move on.

On Friday We reached York in North Yorkshire and by Saturday reached the boarder wi' Scotland.

We pressed on through the night on Saturday, instead of stopping. I wanted to cross the border in darkness. Once again I chose to avoid the main roads and check points. I wasn't sure if Lord Edward's anger could reach the border guards before We did, but I was taking no chances.

We slipped across at the same place We found on the way south. The creek was much deeper due to the recent rains and lava's little Millie had a bit of a time. I had to lead the mare by her leash to make her keep moving forward.

Once We were safely across, I insisted that We keep moving until We were several miles north of the border. We camped outside for the remaining few hours before dawn to rest the horses. I set no fire and remained awake while lava tried to sleep. she kept waking up moaning and crying out, obviously dreaming about Phillip.

At dawn, I fed the horses, then We ate some cold jerky and drank water from a small waterfall. My goal was to skip Emaine and reach Gaspard by sundown on Saturday. I know lava desperately wants some private time wi' her mum, kate.

After sleeping until noon, We had lunch in the Gaspard Tavern wi' abby and kate. kate apologized t' Me for not just telling Us the truth before We left, but I understood her intentions were guid, solely hoping t' prevent more anguish for her daughter.

We mounted the well rested horses and took Our time riding home t' MacLaaran. It was nice being home again amongst Our friends. Somehow, I just knew that was not the last We'd see o' Lord Phillip Hampton.

Chapter Three - Monday, April 14th
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After a pleasant evenin' in MacLaaran's Great Hall wi' Our friends, We go to bed early. ((At least I did, lava was seen posting on the Word Game late into the night. *chuckle*)) I do remember her crawling in bed later, half wakening Me and wanting t' play.

When I woke in the mornin'', lava was gone again, off t' catch up on her duties, no doubt. I headed downstairs t' bathe, shave and dress, enjoyed muffins and tea prepared by cookie, then returned t' Our chambers t' review the map I had drawn o' My lands. I added the plot o' land rented t' Willard Smithe, then wondered just how He might be doing down there. He said there were a few of his friends with interest in tenant farming or raising cattle, so hopefully they'll join Willard and form a group strong enough t' deal with the Hamptons.

I know that I'll have t' return periodically, but for right now I'm glad t' be home.

It was Sunday April 20th when seth found Me to tell Me a messenger arrived from Hampton. The lad was carrying a note from Willard Smithe, which I opened post haste.

Dear Kyle,

The messenger bears a pouch with 45 sovereigns. I've managed to rent four more five acre parcels of land and the word is spreading. I did have a little confrontation with Lord Phillip, but I haven't seen him now in over a week. It's possible he left on a trip. So I suggest ye keep a sharp eye out for him.

Your loyal servant,
Willard Smithe

I gave the following note t' the young lad t' return t' Willard Smithe.

Dear Willard,

Thanks for the latest information. I'm pleased wi' the rentals Ye managed to set up. The lad gave me the pouch wi' the 45 sovereigns. Yer doing a fine job down there. At this rate We might reach 600 sovereigns a year, enough t' satisfy Me. If Ye incur additional expenses on M' behalf, just deduct them from the quarterly rentals and advise Me of each expense.

I'm also surprised that Lord Phillip has disappeared. Maybe He joined the King's army or found another piece o' land that suits His needs?

Best o' luck down there,
Sir Kyle Athen

It was only three days later, Thursday, April 24th, and I could tell something had happened as soon as lava burst in the door o' Our chambers. she was either excited o'er all those purchases in her arms, or something had gone wrong.

""Let Me help ye wi' those," I grinned as I jumped up from the sofa.

she simply dropped the bags on the floor, one pair o' flimsy panties falling out of a bag, "Lord Phillip is here in MacLaaran," she blurted out.

"Here, in the castle?"

"Not yet, he's in the village."

she explained what had happened, saying Phillip insisted that He's here in peace, hoping to apologize for the terrible situation that arose in Hampton. "He said the shock of discovering that i'm his half-sister was very disturbing, and His father, Lord Edward Hampton is still very upset. Phillip is concerned for His father's health."

I helped her pick up all the bags and took them into the bedroom. I held up the flimsy panties wi' a grin, but she grabbed them away. "Phillip touched those, so i'll toss them away. Now leave, Ye cannae see the rest until I wear them. Scat!!"

At least she was settling down now. I went out front and sat there thinking. What might be the best way t' deal wi' Lord Phillip? I decided t' see what might be on His mind, before forming further opinions.

Lord Phillip Hampton showed up that very night in Castle MacLaaran and lava introduced Him to those present. He publicly apologized to both lava and Me for His actions in Hampton three weeks ago. I introduced Phillip to James MacGregor who came in a bit later.

I still had serious doubts about this man's intentions. The fact that He now knew that lava is his half-sister obviously concerned Him. That was the reason that lava's mother, kate, had held secret for all these years that Lord Edward Hampton was anna, aka lava,'s father. Did Phillip consider her a threat?

In spite of Phillip's efforts not to stare, I knew he kept glancing at lava's barely covered body, and also his hungry eyes fell often on ceanna and zandra.

Phillip said that His father had fallen ill o'er this entire situation. Phillip insisted on a private meeting with me so I gave Him the 6th floor guest chambers during His visit to MacLaaran. I had no intention now to sell Him My property in Hampton, but I decided to hear Him out on Friday.

I met with Lord Phillip around 12:30 pm on Friday and We had lunch together in His guest room. He didn't waste time getting to the point. He wanted Athelhampton, and offered to meet the 6,000 sovereign request that I made to His father on April 7th.

I smiled and politely told Him that offer was no longer on the table, that in fact since the tenant situation was looking so profitable, I intended to just keep the property. We bartered for an hour during lunch.

He finally offered 10,000 sovereigns. I declined and that upset Him considerably. It must have been the limit His father was willing to support. His face took on the hue of a blossoming plum as he got up and warned Me I would regret it if I chose to just keep the property. He said I was too far remote to protect it and that he would leave that offer in place until I reached My senses.

I rose, smiled, dropped My napkin on the table and left Him standing there stewing.

Phillip stayed a few days and I caught him staring at lava in what I considered as inappropriate especially for a half-sister. There was no doubt in My mind that he wanted her. lava avoided him like the plague.

On the day Phillip left, he asked seth to retain his chambers, that he wanted to visit several of the local villages. Tris was teaching Aspen how to ride that day, something that turned out to be quite a humorous affair in it's self. *chuckling as I thing back*

Little did I know at that time that Phillip was off seeking to hire a mercenary willing to kill Me. It turned out later He shifted gears and hired a woman, Lady Eva. As I understand it today, Phillip offered to pay Eva to try and seduce Me into her bed and convince Me to sell Phillip My land.

If that didn't work, which it didn't, of course as You'll see, Phillip asker her to poison Me.

On Monday, May 5th, 2003, Lord Phillip returned to MacLaaran. I saw Him ride in just as I was completing My rounds of the Village. I had just sent a very tired lava off to warm up Our bed when Phillip came down from His 6th floor guest chambers.

Phillip was extremely social, making it a point to address each person in the room personally. I did have to keep reminding Rags to be decent. Rags kept whispering in my ear, "Kill Him Kyle. I'll slit his throat for Ye and hide the body. Nobody will ever know." Dami tried to hush Rags, but Ye know how that went. *laugh*

Lady Rayven was there with Praag and Phillip made a point to comment on Her beauty. Dami, in spite of still being concerned about Phillip's intentions, did get Him a glass of water.

Phillip said that He now understood why I chose to remain in MacLaaran, complimenting the Scottish Highlands. He did say if I ever changed My mind about selling Athelhampton, to please consider His offers first.

I actually hoped that things will work out fine.

Phillip invited Me to have lunch with Him at the Velvet Hammer on Thursday. I thought He was planning to leave and say guidbye, but He made one more attempt to convince Me to sell Him Athelhampton. His offer this time was 15,000 gold sovereigns.

I declined, telling Him I had just received a message from Willard Smithe, stating that two more 5 acre plots had been rented. Things were looking extremely profitable there and I just wasn't interested in selling the property.

Instead of getting angry like the previous times, He said that He understood. He calmly reminded Me just how difficult it was to keep things under control with tenant farmers, particularly from this distance. Although, Willard Smithe seemed a decent sort, He might soon experience difficulties managing such a large operation.

Phillip paid the tab for lunch and left. Were His last words a threat? It was hard to tell, since He never quit smiling throughout the conversation.

On Saturday, May 10, 1317 early in morning, lava and I left for Gaspard. Our Mother's Day present for kate is lava spending some time in Gaspard, doing kate's job so her mum can get a rest. I believe lava will stay for about a week, possibly more if required. lava's sister, abby was pleased that lava planned to remain for a while.

I enjoyed a nice lunch at the Gaspard Tavern, chatting with Randy, the owner and abby while kate was going over her duties with lava. My plans were to spend the night there and ride back to MacLaaran on Sunday.

After lunch, abby and I rode over to Gaspard Castle and visited with Angelica, but there was no sign of the old armoury ghost. Angelica smiled and told Us he's there when she needs him. That devilish look in her eyes told Me all I needed to know.

On the ride back I filled in abby on the recent situation in MacLaaran and warned her to keep an eye out for Lord Phillip Hampton. I wanted to know immediately if He showed up in Gaspard. she said she would send her boyfriend, Jack Wagner lickitty split, if Lord Phillip was seen there.

On Sunday night May 11th Lord Walter Hampton came rushing into MacLaaran looking for His brother, Phillip. It turned out that their father, Lord Edward Hampton had passed away. Walter made the trip to inform Phillip first hand. He had a light carriage and two drivers there so the trip would only stop long enough for food, water and exchanging the horses. They needed to be back in Hampton for the funeral.

As Phillip hurried upstairs to pack, Walter asked me for permission to exchange horses for the carriage. I sent seth off to the stables to supervise the exchange. Walter said they made the trip up in 4 days, and he hoped if the weather held up to be back in Hampton by Friday for the funeral.

Phillip returned, left a sealed message with seth to be delivered to a Lady Eva in Hollywell, then they were gone, riding off into the night. Obviously that note asked Eva to meet Phillip in Hampton.

The next day I rode to Gaspard and informed lava and kate of the passing of Lord Edward Hampton, lava's father. Since lava barely knew the man, and there really wasn't time to reach Hampton before the Friday funeral, We held a little prayer on His behalf there in Gaspard.

As We rode back home to MacLaaran, I filled lava in an Phillip's last offer and My decision to refuse. We discussed the pros and cons of retaining possession of My Athelhampton property. 15,000 gold sovereigns was finally a decent offer, one that would avoid the distance problems managing that property. I knew lava wanted Me to just sell the land and be done with the whole affair.

I knew she feared Phillip and selling Him the land might avoid future confrontations, but I just didn't feel right about letting the Hamptons take over down there. I've hired Willard Smithe as My new property manager, and I intended to honor that commitment.

Chapter Four
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On Sunday, June 15th 1317 a courier pigeon arrived at My window with an urgent message from Willard Smithe.

Kyle, Lord Walter Hampton was found dead Saturday at the bottom of a cliff. They are saying it was an accident, but I don't believe that for a minute. Lord Phillip is assuming command over there. I anticipate problems. You can return messages via this bird. I'll keep you posted on developments. I'm training a second pigeon so we can stay in close touch.

I returned a message via the pigeon, inserting it in the small tube he carried.

Be very, very careful, Willard. Try not to be found alone. I don't trust Phillip either.

seth fed the pigeon and We sent it off on it's flight home.

There was good reason to be concerned, although there would never be proof that Phillip had somehow had his brother murdered so he could obtain control of the Hampton estates.

Early on the morning of Friday, June 20th a courier pigeon arrived, carrying another message from Willard Smithe.

Dear Kyle,

Lord Phillip appears to be terrorizing the Hampton area. He's raising the rental charges in His territory and even had His two hired thugs beat Howard Brown within an inch of his death for debating the new rental charges. I found Howard laying in the dirt and brought him over to my place to recover. Howard has lost the sight of one eye and has a nasty limp now, but he's working for me. I had to restrain him from attacking Phillip when he showed up in Athelhampton the other day.

I've collected the tenant farmers and ranchers here on Athelhampton and we're now all carrying weapons and a horn. At the sight of Phillip and his ruffians, we'll all blow the horn three quick blasts, calling for assistance. Hopefully, this will restrain Phillip from any attacks on your property.

Your latest rental fees plus a percentage of our earnings is on it's way via our messenger.

Your's truly,
Willard Smithe

I returned the pigeon supporting Smithe's efforts. If things didn't calm down, I might just have to take Rags with Me next time and deal with this Phillip.

On Tuesday, July 1st a messenger arrived, bringing the latest rental fees and a note from Willard Smithe.

Dear Kyle,

I'm not sure what this means, but suddenly everything is too quiet down here. From what I hear in the village, Lord Phillip has left the area again. I'd keep a watchful eye up there if I were Thee. At least things are running smoothly down here and Ye'll find some profits along with the tenant rental fees this quarter.

Regards,
Willard Smithe

I gave the messenger a short note of thanks and sent him off with a few coins in his pocket and a full belly.

The night of Friday July 4th was really strange. With lava away visiting her mom and sister in Gaspard, I was just relaxing in the Great Hall when Lady Eva arrived, returning from Her trip to Hollywell. I offered the tour of the castle We had discussed before Eva left and she heartily accepted. While I made a pit stop, Eva refilled My tea, which certainly had a delightfully unique flavor.

I was sipping the tea when Rags arrived. He heard Me mention the castle tour and decided He would protectively walk along. The first stop was Lord Marc's old chambers. zandra was doing her thing, bathing in the garden fountain and "air drying" to tease the guards. Dami's ghost popped in and She shadowed Rags and followed along with the tour.

By the time We reached the library, I had finished the herb loaded tea and I had to grab a book to conceal My growing erection. After visiting the council room and the armoury, I led the crowd out into the garden. Eva's efforts to get Me alone were thwarted at every turn. ((It's nice that the Mac members did their best to protect poor defenseless Kyle from this Eva and Her evil attempts to seduce Me))

I had just agreed to escort Eva to her chambers, although she asked the typical "Yer chambers or Mine" question, when who should come rushing in but My lava. Before I could even speak, lava dragged Me away to bed, leaving a totally frustrated Eva cursing like a trooper under Her breath.

The herbs certainly worked and lava was the beneficiary. I fear her loud screams of pleasure might have been heard throughout the castle.

Lady Eva hung around for a while, constantly trying to get Me alone, but lava was quite suspect of her now and when lava wasn't there, it seemed that Rita, our tough cookie, was. Eva left and unknown to Me, she was spending time up in Hollywell with Phillip as they thought up other plans for my demise.

Their new plan was to occupy the old Gaspard Castle, lure lava down there and hold her hostage until I came looking for her. Something happened to adjust their plans.

On Sunday August 10th a messenger arrived from Willard Smithe and seth escorted him to the library where I was working. The messenger handed me a pouch filled with gold coins, the rental fees for the past month, and a sealed envelope.

Dear Kyle,

I'm not sure if this is good news or not, but Lord Phillip has returned. He hasn't been over here to Athelhampton yet, but he's pressing all his tenants quite hard again. I expect him to show up here any day.

As you'll see in the rental fees and your percentage of the profits, we've been quite productive while Phillip was away. We'll do our best to continue prospering. If we have a problem, I'll inform you via pigeon mail.

There's a new lady here in Hampton, Lady Eva. She's been visiting Hampton Castle and from what I gather, she's stolen the heart of Lord Phillip. Maybe that will ease the pressure hereabouts.

Regards,
William Smithe
Tenant Manager

Finally, after a worrisome delay, a messenger arrived at MacLaaran from Willard Smythe on Wednesday Sept 24th. He delivered a heavy pouch filled with gold coins, two months rental fees for the Athelhampton tenants. There was also a sealed envelope addressed to me.

Dear Kyle,

My apologies for the delay. Although all the rental fees are in that pouch, I fear this note bares bad news. Harold Brown, the man that Phillip had assaulted months ago, was found dead in an alley in Hampton. I fear he went into the village for supplies and must have spent too much time in the Hampton Tavern. They say he had been knifed, robbed, and left in that alley. There is no proof that it was Lord Phillip or his men, although I know Phillip has hated him ever since he showed up working over here.

That Lady Eva I mentioned in my last message has Lord Phillip wrapped around her fingers. I met her once in the village and she is a real beauty, but there's something in her eyes that troubles me. Maybe I'm over reacting, but she looked at me as if I was a prize heifer or something.

So far, no moves have been made to disrupt us on your property, but I fear for the worst.

Regards,
William Smithe
Tenant Manager

On Wednesday, October 15, another message arrived from Willard Smithe, the tenant manager of my Athelhampton properties.

Dear Kyle,

There was a ball held at Castle Hampton last week and of course we weren't invited. However, the word has spread that Lord Phillip and the Lady Eva have announced their betrothal. No wedding date has been set, but I doubt if it will be long before she's Lady Eva Hampton.

I had hoped that this might just calm things down around here for a while, but yesterday both Phillip and Eva rode over along with an entourage of armed soldiers. I was warned that if our sheep crossed over into their territory, they would be considered lost and confiscated.

The smirk in that Lady Eva's face told me all I needed to know. We can expect trouble - - - - and soon. They want your property, M'Lord, and they'll stop at nothing to obtain it.

Regards,
Williard Smithe
Tenant Manager

I sent the messenger back with a note, asking Willard to resume the use of the homing pigeons to keep me up to date. If required, I'll bring a few people along and return to Hampton to confront Lord Phillip.

On November 11th things were quiet for almost a month. I was sitting in the Great Hall, enjoying My morning lemon tea and the leftovers from Clanninda's Berry Crisp when lava came hurrying in soaking wet. The thunder and lightening storm had obviously caught her out there unprepared. I chuckled because she looks so cute soaking wet, but rushed to My arms and clung there shaking.

I tried to get her to tell Me what might be wrong, but she put Me off, saying simply it was getting caught in that terrible storm. I sent her off to the baths to warm up, and sat there pondering what might be troubling her.

lava was still in the baths when seth ushered in the messenger from Willard Smithe. He was also soaking wet from the storm, but insisted upon delivering the message before warming up at the fire. cookie brought him some hot broth and seth went off looking for dry clothing for the lad while I opened the sealed message and sat back to read.

Dear Kyle,

As you requested, I'm in the process of training a new messenger pigeon to speed things up, but I felt you needed this piece of news post haste.

There was a surprise wedding two weeks ago, joining Lord Phillip Hampton and Lady Eva. They left directly after the wedding, supposedly going south to the coast for a honeymoon. However, I had the lad that's delivering this message follow them. They left heading south in a carriage, but quickly wrapped around Hampton and instead headed north. When he advised me of that change I wrote this message and sent him north to catch and follow the carriage if it continued in your direction. If they stopped short of Scotland, or headed off east or west, I instructed the lad to proceed on to MacLaaran.

You'll need to sit down with the lad and have him tell you where he lost them or where they stopped. Kyle, I know this might just be my mind thinking the worst, but at least you're forewarned.

Regards,
Williard Smithe
Tenant Manager

I called the lad over after he had a chance to warm up and enjoy his hot meal. He said that Phillip stopped in Gaspard. Obviously, We have a problem. I'll need to see if lava was getting an omen.

Taking Sir Tristram, the Captain of the Guard, aside I requested that for the next few weeks He double the guard and also send hourly patrols through the village. I provide des criptions of Lord Phillip and Lady Eva.

Then I sit with lava, discussing what We must do to protect Ourselves until We know what might be in Lord Phillip's mind this time.

After trading several messages with Willard Smithe, I wrote the following letter to King Edward of England.

Dear King Edward II,

My father, Lord Athel, who owned Athelhampton, was murdered in 1313 by wild renegades who burned his mansion to the ground. I inherited the 100 acres of Athelhampton property upon his death, but left to seek peace and my fortune. Athelhampton lies near the village of Hampton and as you can see in the enclosed map, it has a lovely stream flowing through the middle of the property.

I currently reside in Scotland and have finally found peace with the world. Last year I began renting the property to several tenant farmers, who are doing quite well there and are providing the gold to pay your taxes.

I have a proposition to offer you. Willard Smithe is my manager and he farms 40 acres, including the grazing areas they all utilize. He has rented the remaining 60 acres in 10 acre plots along both sides of the stream to six gentleman farmers. Under Willard Smithe's leadership, they have all expressed an interest in purchasing the land. I'm willing to sell the property to the tenant farmers, but it might work better if it was sold to them through you.

I'm willing to transfer the title of the property to you for 10,000 gold sovereigns. You can then sell each plot of land to the farmers. I recommend the selling price of 110 gold sovereigns per acre, a fair price and a nice little profit for you. You can also charge interest, if they can't come up with that tidy sum instantly.

In return, Willard Smithe will request support and protection from the Crown, since a local land owner, Lord Phillip Hampton is trying to force them off the land and obtain it way below the realistic value of the land.

If the purchases go through the Crown, Lord Phillip will be forced to let them continue to operate successfully in peace, and you'll gain the taxes that will result.

Regards,
Sir Kyle Athel

Chapter Five
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I was away for just a few days, tending to some business in Hollywell. Upon My return I learned that lava had received a message from her mother kate, and had ridden off on Molly to Gaspard. seth said she planned to be back within two days.

((another piece inserted here from lava's journal))

I hurried to Gaspard to see what my mother felt was so urgent, but upon arriving I found a note with Randy saying kate and abby had gone up to Gaspard Castle. Mounting Molly, I hurried after them.

Reaching the castle as the sun was setting, I tied off Molly and hurried inside. You can imagine my surprise to find Lord Phillip standing there with an evil grin on his face.

"Good evening, lava, you're just in time."

Eva walked in, obviously having followed me up here and smirked as i ranted and raved demanding to know where my mother and sister were. Phillip said they were safely tucked away on the dungeon walls and explained why we were here.

"I want that land Kyle keeps refusing to sell me. Since he won't listen to reason, we'll just have to force the issue. I intend to keep you here until Kyle comes looking for ye. Then I'll negotiate a trade, the safety of ye and yer family in return for selling me Athelhampton at my price. We won't hurt ye if he's willing to barter. If not, I guess we'll have to find another way to obtain that land."

Eva grabbed me from behind and ushered me off to an upper floor bedroom, where they bound my wrists and ankles with scarves and left me laying there, spread eagled on a bed.

The wait began, knowing Kyle will come here sooner or later, looking for me. Phillip remained after sending Eva down to prepare dinner. His words were quite explicit

"It's so hard to restrain myself from raping ye, lava, and depositing my seed in yer belly. But that will have to wait, I need ye unharmed to negotiate. Besides, Eva would be upset. If my plans work out, maybe I can find an excuse to take ye back to Hampton after we remove your master from the game."

((returning to Kyle))

I was rudely awakened on Wednesday night, actually Thursday morning, to find zandra jumping up and down at the foot o' My bed*

What the hell is going on??

zandra explained, gesturing wildly, that lava was missing, and Randy said she might have gone up to Gaspard Castle - - - I listened as zandra told me that Randy said that kate and abby had disappeared several days ago and ceanna remained in Gaspard to snoop around and learn what she can.

DAMN!! - - - That must be where Phillip and Eva are! - - Calm down, we need a plan of attack here. Lord Phillip must have abducted the women to force Me to sell him that land. But, I hold a little advantage. He'll expect me to come storming down there alone to find lava. I knew that old castle in Gaspard like the back o' My hand. I've searched it top to bottom while pursuing those ghosts.

I sent zandra to go fetch Tris, Gray and Rags while I dressed and drew up a map. We planned to let Phillip stew for a while, and head south when we were prepared. He wouldn't hurt the women until he was sure he had me in his hands.

Years ago we defeated that Turk when he tried to steal the medallion. He also tried to use Gaspard Castle. There's a secret cave in the forest behind the castle and I know where the entrance is hidden. Once inside that cave, if you walk to the back, there's a secret door. You simply press on the right spot and the stone door opens into a long dark hall. At the end of that hall is a door into the basement dungeon.

The plan worked like a charm.

On Sunday night, I arrived at Gaspard with Tris in tow. Rags was trailing behind on a stubborn mule. We found cea at the Gaspard Inn, where she told Us that there were only 5 horses up at the castle, including lava's mare. That means Phillip, Eva and only two soldiers at best.

Even though Rags mule ne'er made it, we of course decided to proceed. Tim had laid a heavy fog o'er the entire mountain that surrounded the castle, so we were able to make our way up the narrow path unnoticed. We left the horses at the creek as planned, and I led Tris and cea to the cave. We had to crawl in the dark as lighting a torch outside might have raised the alarm.

The rear of the cave has a secret door, pressing on the right stone swung it open, leading us into the long underground tunnel to the Gaspard Castle dungeon. Opening the creaking door, we found kate and abby unhurt and unguarded, but chained to the dungeon walls. cea took the keys off the wall and released them as I kept saying to stay quiet. I told them to wait while I went back around and entered the castle alone. They would come charging out when I yelled the word ATTACK.

Tris guarded the single door up to the castle while I hurried back out through the cave. I walked back to the horses. mounted Blaze, and rode up to the castle drawbridge making lots of noise. I dismounted and walked in the main castle doors. Phillip was waiting, leaning on his sword, while one guard stood at the ready over by the door that I knew led to the dungeon.

Phillip was his normal caustic self, assuming I'd come to barter. He said if I turned over the deed, he'd release the women unharmed. I knew he was untrustworthy, and planned to be rid of us all as soon as he had the deed in hand.

My answer was simple, saying that if he didn't let me see lava immediately, we'd ATTACK. At the sound of the word, Tris and cea slammed the dungeon door open and killed the first guard, leaving me free to deal with Phillip. I pointed upstairs where I had heard Eva talking and cea burst up there after her.

There was a huge struggle (in spite of a few sword strokes miss posted by yours truly that drew some humorous remarks from Asp in the audience). cea was wounded in the shoulder when Eva threw her dagger at her, but cea soon had the upper hand. Tris raced up the stairs to help and ran smack into the last guard running down. They landed in a heap at the foot of the stairs, but Tris put that one to sleep with a bop on the noggin.

Phillip was tough, but after parrying what he hoped might be a death stroke at my chest, I buried my dagger in his stomach, then lifted the blade up, piercing his heart. I left him mortally wounded on the stone castle floor and raced upstairs. Eva was hoping it was Phillip charging into the room where lava was tied to the bed. cea released lava while I bound Eva, telling her I intended to turn her over to the Gaspard magistrate, where she would no doubt be hung for her crimes.

The still living guard was left to bury his friend while we took Eva and Phillip's body into Gaspard where she was promptly placed in a jail cell. kate tended to cea's wound…. and after a stuff drink, we all went to bed in the Gaspard Inn rooms.

On Monday I awoke in our room in the Gaspard Inn to find lava up and packing. She obviously wanted to head home. I told her that we needed to spend the morning as I needed to make arrangements to send Lord Phillip's body home for burial. I suggested that now might be the time for her to spend the morning with her mom and clear the air.

Tris had left early with cea, since they both had duties at MacLaaran and they could report the results to those at home that might be worrying.

I washed, dressed and headed for the magistrate's office. We were in the midst of writing a mutual report that would go to King Edward II, describing the situation that resulted in Phillip's death and the incarceration of his recent wife on charges of kidnapping and attempted murder, when a fellow rushed in quite upset.

He said that Lady Eva had escaped last night. They found the guard assigned to watch over her in her open jail cell with his pants down and his throat slit ear to ear. Eva had obviously seduced the guard with her alluring charms, killed him with his own dagger, and fled on a stolen horse.

The magistrate sent several men in both directions in hopes of catching her, but down deep I knew she was gone, hopefully forever.

After lunch with kate and abby, we headed home, pleased that everybody was safe, but my mind was already back at work, thinking about how fragile life really is and wondering if Dami might be back when we arrived home in MacLaaran.

After returning to MacLaaran, I prepared a letter to the King of England, Edward II*

Dear King Edward II,

I received Your response to My letter of January 13th 1318, accepting My offer to transfer the ownership of Athelhampton. Your messenger gave Me the 10,000 gold sovereigns and I understand that the sales to the tenant farmers are in progress. I also understand that as a result of My accusations of Lord Phillip Hampton and His treatment of his tenant farmers, You're in the process of investigating that situation.

You will soon receive both Phillip's body and a letter from the Gaspard Magistrate explaining the situation that led to His death. Phillip had kidnapped anna, also now known as lava, Lord Edward Hampton's daughter, with intentions of killing her, her mother kate, sister abby and Me.

In Your investigation Ye will no doubt come upon Lord Edward's will, where he divulged the fact that lava was indeed his daughter, born out of wedlock with her mother kate. Edward had named her in His will, sending her some gold and a few gifts. Phillip knew that although not of full royal blood, that lava was a threat.

With the passing of Lord Phillip, lava is the sole remaining heir to the Hampton family, and inherits both the Hampton Castle and the adjoining properties. I've discusses this situation in depth with lava, and she agrees that the castle and land would better serve the Crown if You sold or gave it to somebody of true royal blood.

If You agree, please evaluate the value of that property and make lava an offer to purchase it.

Regards,
Sir Kyle Athel

*I sent the letter by messenger to the King and await His response*

*Wednesday morning seth escorted a messenger from King Edward II of England into the Great Hall where I was enjoying My breakfast*

Dear Kyle,

I appreciated Your letter explaining the demise of Lord Phillip Hampton. His body was properly buried at the Hampton estate. Our investigations, which were already in process due to Your previous letter, did indeed confirm that Phillip's actions were not in the best interest of the local farmers or the Crown of England.

Further, going through the financial records we found the final will and testament of Phillip's father, Lord Edward Hampton. He did indeed state therein, that he had a daughter named Anna. Questioning the local townspeople and the local farmers verified that Your lava is indeed the Anna that Lord Edward referred to in his will.

As the only living relative, she is indeed the legal heir to Hampton Castle and the lands belonging to the Hampton family. However, I obviously have serious concerns in turning that all over to someone not of true noble blood.

I offer two suggestions. One, marry the waif and I'll name You as Lord Kyle and Lady Anna Athel and turn all of said properties over to You. That would require that You both return to England. If that is not consistent with Your wishes, and You choose to remain in Scotland, the Crown will purchase the castle and lands for the sum of 300,000 gold sovereigns. That amount will be paid over a six year period in 50,000 sovereign increments per year.

Please advise Me of Your decision promptly, as there are several gentleman interested in that property and the royal standings that would accompany it.

Deepest regards,
King Edward II
The Crown of England

*chuckling a bit, I folded up the letter and told the seth to feed the messenger and find him quarters until lava and I make Our decision*

It didn't take lava long to decide, since she had no interest now of living in England. I sent King Edward our response, saying she would accept the Crown's offer. Edward confirmed the arrangement and sent the first 50,000 gold sovereigns which will be kept in MacLaaran's secret safe.

It came in handy as she used 1000 sovereigns to purchase and rebuild the larger building next door to My new Carriage Shoppe. The new Coffee and Gift Shoppe will no doubt support her the rest of her life, but with all that gold at her beck and call, why does she still swipe My village credit card??

The End