Alexander was gratefulfor the escape offered by the king; however, now the man was bent on probing his impression of the ladies present. Would he get no peace this day?
“They are all lovely young ladies, Your Majesty, I am sure.”
“I see through you, Argyll. Do not think I was not aware of your tight expression when I found you surrounded by the most eligible ladies in all of Scotland.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to meet them, Your Majesty, but I would rather get to know a lady rather than have her paraded beforeme, which I might add, is most uncomfortable for them as well.”
“Well then, you shall enjoy this evening much more as no one will know your identity.” The king paused and sized up Alexander. “I trust you have brought something to wear for the masquerade?”
“Aye, Your Majesty. I have brought something to conceal my identity for the masque this eve.”
They rode the remainder of the way back to the palace in relative silence. They had intended to hunt longer, but the black clouds looming over the rolling hills signaled the time to cut the trip short. They returned empty handed and parted ways. Alexander was more than relieved when Alain met him at the stables and directed him to an empty passageway toward his chamber. The palace was quite large and for this occasion, the royal couple made a portion of their apartments available to those who did not reside in the immediate proximity. It would take Alexander the better part of two days to return to Inverary Castle on Loch Fyne but that wouldn’t be for another day. And he had to make it through this evening first.
Awaiting him in his chamber was his black and gold brocade tunic together with black trews and a black mask to conceal the top of his face, only revealing his mouth. He even brought a black leather belt to tie around his waist. If he was to suffer an evening of frivolity, he would do it in his own way.
Alexander sat in a chair near the open window and took advantage of the ale and food that Alain had put aside for him. Surely the king’s cooks were the best anywhere. Alexander hadn’t eaten since earlier, and this spread of meat and cheese and bread was most welcome and delicious.
Looking out over the loch, he thought about the night to come, and his thoughts drifted to the red-haired lass from earlier. So very different was she from the other ladies he’d met that afternoon, and he wondered why it was her mother hadn’t partaken in the opportunity. Or maybe they had their sights on someone else.
He shook his head. All these games were so unnecessary when their fathers merely had to come together to discuss terms to secure a contract. The display was unnecessary. Alexander had some experience with women. At twenty-two, he couldn’t be expected to have remained chaste, and he did want to like his future wife. So why did he dislike settings like this afternoon so much? He wasn’t even sure he knew himself. But dislike them he did and this evening amid the flamboyance, he would be expected to dance and engage.
The setting sun cast long shadows across the stone floor. Alexander heaved a sigh and moved the bed to change into his festive attire. When he was nearly done, a knock sounded at the chamber door. Alain entered wearing a sideways grin.
“What has you in such mirth?”
“There is already plenty merry making had in the great hall. I am certain the level of costume will send your head into a spin.”
“And you find that amusing? My head in a spin?”
“Somewhat,” he said as his grin widened.
“Surely I can feign illness.”
“No one would believe you. Now hurry up and put on your mask.”
“I have an idea. Since you are so eager, why don’t you wear my clothes and go in my stead?”
“Absolutely not, my friend. I would not trade places with you for all the marks in the king’s treasury. Besides, I get to watch you squirm all evening, which will amuse me greatly.”
“Some friend you are,” Alexander said as he tied the black satin ribbon at the back of his head, securing his mask.
“We both know that if the situation were reversed, you would take just as much delight.”
“I will get my revenge,” Alexander said, now wearing his own grin.
They left the chamber and made their way down the narrow staircase, across the courtyard, and onward to the great hall. The sound ofstring and pipe musicians playing lively tunes was the first indication the masque was already in full swing.
Upon entering the great hall, he could not help but notice the additions since earlier that day. Thick floral garlands ran diagonally back and forth above the crowd. Long tables were adorned as well with floral arrangements and large platters of steaming meats, mounds of breads, and one very plump roasted boar. Tankards of ale and mead sat beside silver and gold goblets. Alexander was sure there was enough food to feed half of the country.
Gazing around, he could appreciate the effort the attendants had put into their costumes, and though he had paid good coin for his own, he almost felt underdressed.
“Do you dare enter into the thick of them?” a voice asked beside him.
Alexander would know him anywhere. Lord Ross was the only other man there taller than he and clearly did little to hide his identity, opting to wear a tall hat with thistles and roses adorning one side versus a mask like nearly everyone else.
“I see you are ready to partake,” Alexander said. Ross was known for his eagerness with ladies.
“And why wouldn’t I be? With such delights to explore. I’m surprised at you, Argyll. Any of these hens are yours for the plucking.”
