Politics - Chapter Eleven

In a damp clearing in the middle of a forest a fire blazed. It crackled as the spices that had been thrown into it were consumed, giving off a sweet smell that filled the cold night air. Situated around the fire a group of robed people stood in a circle, their faces covered with hoods. They held hands, moving slowly around the fire and mumbling some incomprehensible chant in a foreign tongue. Beyond this circle their tented-wagons were situated and from one of these their companions began to remove planks of thick dark wood. They had arrived at their destination and in this clearing they would perform their rites of worship. If they were to have looked hard enough they may have seen the light of their fire reflecting off metal hidden within the surrounding trees, but they were occupied and the light of the fire dazzled their vision to anything hidden within the shadowed forest.

If they had listened hard enough they may have heard the whispered query of a frightened young man. "What shall they be using the planks for Sir? They have enough firewood don't they?" "They are constructing an alter Cowin" came the hushed reply. "An alter! For what purpose Master Lethwain?" Deep and emotionless was the answer of his tall companion, "Ritual sacrifice. I fear your sister may be in grave danger if we do not act soon." The young man's face froze, if there were any light you would have noted it to turn a deathly white. "I realize that this agonizes your heart much, but do not fear, we will save her." Lethwain knew that the clouds would clear up soon, and when the moon shone upon the clearing the Sect would begin to perform their rituals. To go in and disperse the congregation by the sword was too much of a risk, it was dark and they would not think twice about murdering their captive in retaliation. A wolf howled from deep within the forest. The base of the alter had been constructed and now the hooded builders returned to the cart to collect more wood. "Wait here Cowin, I must return to my horse," commanded the armoured knight. His companion's expression became one of despair. "Do not fret my friend I will return very soon, but until then, stay hidden and do not move."

If the throng of cloaked revellers had been listening they would have heard the metallic clink of armour as Lethwain parted from his companion, but they were too occupied in their growing excitement. The chanting had become louder and was now accompanied by a slow dance. One member took a large silver knife from his belt and began to sharpen it against a grindstone upon one of the carriages.

As Cowin waited for the return of his sister's would-be-saviour he began to shiver with fear. The sounds of the forest became much more distinct, and each time he turned with the expectation of his safeguarding companion. While he hid he watched a group of the worshippers separate from the rest of the congregation and make their way to the carriage containing his sister. They ascended the short box of wooden steps into the carriage, and returned moments later holding his bound sister between them. Though she struggled he could tell she was weak and her captors made light work of dragging her to their now completed alter. As they tied her down Cowin began to sweat. Where was Lethwain? Surely he would not bring him this far just to desert him? Perhaps they had caught him? Doubts began to creep into his mind but then he heard the familiar rattling of metal and looked around to see his approaching companion. "Lethwain!" he screeched in a loud whisper.

"Quiet," his friend ushered back to him.

"What has happened Sir? What shall we do?"

"We shall wait. I have managed to persuade some 'acquaintances' of mine to cooperate against this Band of Filth," the knight answered contemptuously.

But Cowin was not reassured "Where are they? Magnell has been bound to the alter and the moon will soon be out."

"Do not worry. As we speak they prepare themselves around the clearing." Cowin felt something hot breathe upon his back. He turned around slowly to see the figure of a muscular wolf moving away. He looked up to the knight who was watching the proceedings of the Sect. "Sir," he whispered with trepidation as the beast moved away, "there are wolves gathering."

"Good. Things go to plan" the armour-clad knight responded.

The Brothers of the Sect began to gather around the alter. The winds had grown stronger and that meant that they would blow the clouds away sooner. Then they could they perform the sacrifice to The Dark One and bring prosperity upon themselves for another month.

As they began their chant a howl broke into the chorus. They continued their prayer until the first howl was answered by another, then another. Gradually the surrounding forest broke out into a choir of wails, an unceasing cry for the death of the invaders of the woods. The song of the dancers stopped, someone screamed and the fire was put out in a cloud of smoke.

The wailing grew closer. In the darkness the members of the Sect found themselves pressed together. They were blind to the world, only seeing the fuzzy greens and reds of the fire- still imprinted upon their vision. "Run" a cry went up. "No. He will save us." A snarl. A scream. Night had come alive and pounced upon its prisoners. Those who could, fled into the no-greater security of the forest. Others were trapped and would be found in the morning. The night air was filled with screams, and growls. As one escapee ran from the carnage, blood dripping from his knee, he ripped off his constrictive cloak. He had escaped, maybe the wolves would not chase him and be content with the flock that remained; then he came crashing into a block of metal with an ear-shattering vibration.

Lethwain dusted his breastplate, picked the unconscious priest from the ground, slung him over his shoulder and headed towards the alter. The girl was still tied down, terrified by the surrounding panic. Lethwain tried to calm her as he undid her bonds and removed her gag, but to no avail.

"Magnell," her brother called as he came running up through the darkness. "We came to rescue you."

"Cowin?" She exclaimed.

"This is Lethwain. He brought me here to rescue you." Explained her jubilant brother.

"Take her Cowin." Commanded the knight. "Be swift, we must leave." The knight surveyed the clearing. The moon was out now. The grass was soaked with puddles of blood but no bodies remained. He placed his unconscious load upon the floor and walked over to the pack of gathered animals. Kneeling down he patted one on its heads. Thank you, he mouthed. As the wolves moved off Lethwain took a smouldering branch from the fire and managed to rekindle the flame. Lighting the abandoned carriages on fire he was glad to be rid of their evil contents and the symbol that was painted upon their side.

Cowin and his sister approached the knight. Cowin wanted to ask if they could not search the carriages first, but decided against it upon seeing Lethwain's expression. It was one of an abominable disgust, and as their liberator bent over to pick up the unconscious worshipper he heard the hoofs of the knight's white horse come galloping into the flickering clearing.

"Put your sister upon the saddle, I will escort you back to Abertawe." Instructed the knight. "Then help me bind this rogue, and strap him to my back."

They moved off into the forest. "Thank you Sir," said a dazed Magnell. She gave him a bemused smile and dropped off to sleep in the saddle.

"My pleasure."

Edmund, his face covered in soap and a razor held in his right hand, looked at the intruders with a blank expression of shock and surprise, crouched over a metal tray full of water. He wore tough leather boots under brown woollen pants, faded at the knees and obviously well travelled. A rough ivory-coloured woollen shirt was crumpled and untucked, and his dusty three-quarter length coat lay over the back of a nearby chair. He blinked.

"Listen here mister," she started, standing offensively with her hand near her hidden dagger. "I don't like the fact you are asking for Lady Capall without good reason." she studied him through narrowed eyes. *Damn...mother into the blond pretty bo--* her thought cut off as something nagged at the back of her brain to be remembered.

"..." Edmund was clearly speechless. Water dripped from the edge of the blade, while a rivulet of soapy water ran down his neck. He didn't seem to notice.

Her first thought was to attack, dagger bared ready for blood, but her cover would certainly be blown then. It was bad enough to was acting this...lower class like. She prayed neither Nia nor Niall caught onto her actions and became wary. She took a step back and looked to Nia. "This is him right?" she whispered, keeping an eye on the guy.

"Aye," replied Nia, concentrating on his expression. She shifted nervously.

Edmund's mouth began to work. "I... Renalla... it's me. Edmund." He slowly put down the razor and reached for a cloth to remove the lather from his face. He tried a hesitant smile, noticing with a glance the menacing and burly figure of Niall behind Renny. When her expression didn't change, the smile faded. "Edmund," he repeated hopefully. "Do you remember?" He paused for a moment, unsure of how to proceed. "Your fiancee?"

"MY WHAT?" Renny screeched, backing up into Niall. "I'm NOT engaged so you can't be my Fiancee!" Renny told him. "You are mistaken, Edmund. My name is Renny, I am not engaged with anyone. I am here in Alban to meet someone to marry."

Niall took his huge hand and slapped his forehead then shook his head. He felt as if he was getting a headache, though it could have been from his own doing. "I know I'm not the fastest thinker in this blasted town, but you people seem all messed up. Do you want me to hurt him or not!" Niall's confusion was only making him angry, a very disrupting site considering his massive size and ugly appearance.

Nia gently put a hand and Niall's arm. "I think perhaps, not yet. Maybe we should wait outside," she added, giving it a tug towards the door and shooting a glance at Renny as if to say 'Good Luck!'. "If you need us, we'll be in the hall."

Renny glared at Nia and Niall's retreating backs. *Traitor...* she thought irritated. She glanced over at 'Edmund' and scowled. *I don't blame her...*

After they left, Edmund made a half effort to straighten his shirt, but gave up. His face bore a worried confusion that was clearly apparent to anyone with an ounce of observation. He thought about offering her a seat, but she was clearly too unhappy to be sitting down.

Then he just couldn't help himself. Perhaps the biggest and brightest smile Renny had ever seen in any person lit up his face like the brightest of stars in the night's sky. Then it was gone, but there was no hiding the upturn in the corners of his mouth. "It's... so...I can't believe it!" He said. "I was just about to give up hope of ever...Well. Ah - actually, I have something for you." He pointed off to one side with a hopeful look at Renny. "May I show you? Please?"

Renny was tempted to say 'Do I have a choice?' but refrained. "Why not? If it'll prove how WRONG you are...all the power to you." she said instead, rolling her eyes. He seemed too...cheery. *Exact opposite of Sparrow in SO many ways...his looks, his attitude, his freaking eagerness...his refinement...* Renny watched him carefully as he bent over his sack. *Guess he's not so bad...he reminds me of someone...the blond hair and eyes...* she shrugged. *Could have been anyone.*

Ecstatic, he strode over to a battered pack on the floor and began to rummage around inside. "Your father was devastated when we received word about the death of your maid, and how you'd gone missing," he said. He was finding it hard looking through his belongings for he couldn't stop his hands from shaking. "He sent people out to look for you, but there was no clue as to where you had gone. In the end, I decided... to try and find you. Its been quite a while. Ah, here it is." He withdrew a small bundle, and carried it across to Renny. "Take it," he said. "It's yours anyway."

Renny half-listened to what he said. She automatically held out her hand and weighted the bundle. "Cheap?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. Sighing, she decided to humor him and untie the bundle. Who knows maybe it was something valuable.

She carefully untied the small cloth, darting glances every so often at Edmund who seemed beside himself with excitement. Peeling the last layer, Renny picked up the item. "A...ring with a pink bow..." she whispered, more amused then anything else. Looking up she realized he wanted her to look at it closer. Picking the ring up, she examined it. "Nice craftmanship...few flaws...pure silver?Ni-ice...wait it says something..." she muttered. " 'Never Forget What You Mean'."

"I was going to give it to you when you returned," he said. "But it seems I had to make that journey myself. It doesn't matter now anyway."

"I-I...take it back. Its not mine. Go elsewhere for your finacee. I'm not HER." Renny insisted, shoving the bundle back at Edmund. "Take it! I'm NOT HER! Your lady is refined right? Wears pretty dresses, dances in pretty circles and obeys right? That isn't me. I was raised to be independent, to fight for what I wanted and to make others obey ME."

Edmund fumbled at the bundle in his hands, his creased brow clearly defining his struggle to understand what was happening. "I... I'm sorry, Renalla. I didn't know you felt that way. You always seemed pleased about the idea, I... *we*, had talked about it before. It seems things really have changed with time. Eh... of course they would. It's been so long." He held it out again. "Please, take it. It's all I have left of any value now, but it was made for you, so it would be pointless for me to hang on to it."

"Only thing of value...crap..." Renny felt guilty now. The guy didn't seem so bad, crazy and wishing for death maybe, but not bad. "You might as well take this then, as I said, I'm not this Renalla you are looking for. My name is Renny Alberwine. My father is dead," she told him, gentler now. "I'm sorry you came all this way for nothing."

A look of disbelief came across his face. He shook his head, dismayed at what seemed to be happening.

"The least I can do is spot you dinner or lunch...damn what time is it? And I got some coins to make your way home," she offered, reaching into her tunic's side for her bag of coins. "Here, not like I need it." she held out the bag for him to take.

"Your father is very much alive and well, and worried terribly about where you are," he countered. "I don't know what you've been told, or why you're saying these things, but... there is no way I can forget your face, or your hair, or your voice, or... I am not mistaken. You are Renalla ui Capall, and I didn't come all this way to find you, just to leave with a bundle of coins in exchange. It's a poor trade. If you honestly don't love me as much as I love you, then tell me and I will leave you be. But if there's the slightest chance... I'll not leave until I know for sure this is what you really want."

Renny stood straighter and stared him in the eyes. "Leave. I'm not what you are looking for. I do not love you." she told him, her gaze never wavering. Deep down she felt a pang. *Guilt...pure and simple. This rich boy means not a thing...* Renny said silently. "Now please. There are too many dangers out there...take my money, go home and meet a nice girl."

"Keep your money," he mumbled, folding his arms accross his chest and turning away from Renny. "It means nothing to me anymore. My father passed away and divided his lands amongst the eldest sons. I am the youngest, so I received virtually nothing. I'll make my own way in the world. The pretty dresses and dancing you mentioned weren't important before, and they certainly aren't now."

"You should have moved on...Renalla ui Capall is probably dead. How long has it been? How long do you think a young girl can survive out there?" Renny asked him, shaking her head. "Not long." she answered seriously.

"I would have moved on if I had cared nothing for you," said Edmund quietly.

"You know I think Sparrow was right--high born men are stubborn pigs." Renny muttered. "I'm leaving. I shouldn't have come. This was wasted. I coulda gone seen Sparrow or mother. But no. You accost Nia--one of my only friends here--and drag me into this." Renny ranted under breath, tossing the bag of coins onto the bed. "Take the money. Give it to the poor for all I care. Just take it."

Edmund said nothing, but slowly walked across the room to sit on the bed and bury his head in his hands, ignoring the bag completely. *To come so close to bliss, only to then have my dreams torn asunder in the blink of an eye* he thought morosely. He didn't even want to know who this 'Sparrow' was. Perhaps that would just be the final nail in his heart.

"I'm sorry." was all Renny could say.

Edmund didn't answer. His mind was playing through all the dark alleys, dingy taverns, dirty streets and dangerous encounters he had suffered through, just to come to this. What cruel implement of fate tortured him now, he could not guess.

With a final glance at the man on the bed Renny shook her head and left the room silently. Once out the door she took a deep breath and went towards Nia and Niall.

Upon seeing Renny emerge from the room, Nia moved quickly forward with a concerned look on her face. "How did it go?" she prodded softly.

"Years of searching for his long lost love and he believes her to be me? How do you think it went? He got his heart broken. Wouldn't be surprised if he gets accosted in the middle of the night, made a slave or taken in by some outlaws." Renny said wearily, feeling drained by the whole experience. "Listen next time a guy looks for me, give him a punch in the nose and tell him to shove off. I didn't even get to beat him up...felt too bad for the bloody guy."

Niall listened to the two ladies talking and got a little choked up, "It's a sad tale. I never know love. Nobody come searching for me when I left. Not even my parents. I feel sorry for him and hope he finds his love." Niall pushed back a tear. "Dust," he muttered and wiped his eyes.

"Thanks Niall anyway...total bust." Renny sighed, stretched and then headed down the stairs. "Nia, send a letter to the castle with my name on it when you wanna hook up. I'll understand if you don't, but thought I'd offer. Maybe you can meet my boyfriend." Renny winked then waved and left the inn.

Nia watched her go. "I hope you're as confused as I am Niall," she muttered.

"I never seem to understand what goes on around me, but this time, I think i got it and everyone else is confused!" Niall smiled as he shook his head and through his hands in the air. "If you ever need help again, I'll be here."

Later that evening Edmund, his dreams shattered beyond all recognition, did the only thing he thought he could do in the circumstances: get smashed. For the first time in his life.

He was very proud, for it took two glasses of Pwyll's uisge-beatha to send him teetering- no, make that plummeting, over the edge of sobriety. The room slowly began to grow full of strange colours, weird noises, odd shapes and exotic smells. His head felt light and fluffy, and his heart raced at a speed that was scary, yet exhilarating. If he had any company, he was sure he would have talked their ears off. But even while drunk, past experience had taught him not to make his presence too well known as a stranger. Particularly as this bar was full of outlanders. And a few mean looking ones at that.

The scarred monster that had been at his room hours earlier still looked his way every now and then, and fear refreshed the nails in his feet to prevent him from moving. He wasn't really complaining, for he had a third glass of uisge-beatha in front of him. He just couldn't decide if his head would explode or not if he took another swig.

Damn it, he thought. Thersh nothing left now. He gripped the cup and focussed his attention on the dark fluid within. I'm sho tired. All that bloody way. She doesn't even know who I am. All the things we, we dishcussed. All of it meansh nothing. All of it. All. Nothing. Mentally gripping his innards, he cast his head back and brought the cup up to his lips-

A hand grabbed his wrist. Part of the liquid slopped out from the edge of the cup, splashing onto his face. Some of it sloshed onto his eyes, which began to burn. "Shit!" he yelled, dropping the cup and trying to wipe the uisge-beatha from his face. The contents from the cup fell over his clothes.

There was some quick muttered cursing, and some hands were pressing down on his shoulders. "Sit down," a woman's voice commanded. He tried to squint through the burning, but only succeeded in losing his balance and falling back into his chair. The unknown helper left him to his agony.

But only for a few moments. While he thought some of his vision may be slowly returning, someone approached from the corner of his vision, applying a damp cloth roughly to his face.

"Rake fi eeshri!" (Take it easy!) he tried to say through the fabric.

"Hold still!" ordered the voice once again. It definately sounded familiar this time. The cloth withdrew from view, and Nia was standing there, surveying her handywork.

"Ah, itsh you," slurred Edmund.

"What are you doing, Edmund?" scolded Nia, like a mother to a young child.

"Lamenting my life," he replied, with a jolly flick of his head.

"Why are you giving up so easily? Have you not spent a great deal of time looking for Renny?" She scrunched up the cloth and placed it on the table, taking a seat in the process. "You know it's her, don't you."

"Yes, yes," moaned Edmund. "I can't forget her. She liesh to me, tells me that the 'real' Renalla is dead and that I am mishtaken. And she-"

"I heard," interrupted Nia.

Edmund shot a dumb look at Nia. "How?"

She shrugged. "I eavesdropped. I couldn't help myself."

He rubbed a hand smelling of alcohol across his face to try and smear the pins and needles away from his skin. "Why is she doing this?" he moaned. "Did I displeash her? Has she found someone else? Was her dishappearance some sort of trick? I don't understand!"

"Neither do I," admitted Nia, sensing that the young man was about to go all... emotional on her. "But I think it's a mystery best solved after a good night's sleep, a bath and a warm meal." As if on cue, she left her seat and took him firmly by the arm. "Come on."

Edmund found that his eyes were starting to sting again. His head was muddled and full of a throbbing that dulled his senses. He felt rotten, alone and confused. Instead of resisting, he simply rose to his feet and followed the insistant tug on his arm. With his free hand he tried to wipe the mist that blurred his vision. "What doesh tomorrow bring for a man such as I? My melancholy ish all I have left..."

Nia noticed the tears in his eyes. "Stop blubbering," she whispered. "You're just drunk. You'll make a spectacle of yourself. It will also do little for your reputation as a man if these people see you cry like the newborn." Her chastisement lacked conviction, for she felt nothing but pity for his misery. Instead, she tried to prop him up as best she could on her shoulder. And lead him up the stairs to his own bed. Hopefully for whatever peace sleep could bring him.

Eli and Gwynne finished a quick evening meal then set out for Urianus' campsite. They made most of the journey by horseback then hiked in the last half mile. As the two neared the camp, they split up to cover the campsite from two angles. Eli went left heading to the northern side of the camp with Gwynne heading to the south side.

Eli found two guards along the outskirts keeping watch. Two more stood at the door to the coach. Eli could not find Urianus anywhere but, with the guards surrounding the coach, assumed that the man was sleeping inside. In the center of the campsite sat six men around a fire. From Eli's vantage point ten men in all could be seen. Eli sat and watched for a half an hour for further signs when two men came riding hard from the southeast. From the clothing these men wore and being this close to the border, the two riders were from Nethbo. Eli hoped Gwynne had a good hiding spot.

Gwynne hid well behind the trees and bushes, he observed the enemies camp closely and waited to see what the routine was of the guards for a future sneak attack if it came to that and Gwynne was fairly certain that it would. On the southeast side it seemed only two men guarded this area, believing the coach and the horses more important then the back of the campsite.

The two riders dismounted and stood by the fire as Urianus made his way from the coach and headed towards them. The two riders bowed as Urianus approached.

"Milord, all is ready. We have twenty men camped ten miles from here on the Nethbo side of the border. They wear the markings of Abertawe guards," one of them said as the two riders stood up. "Twenty more stand by to escort you once you have crossed the border."

Urianus smiled, "Those men will make perfect spies and assassins. They have their assignments and the forged papers as to which noble house to report to?"

The second man saluted, "everything is as you ordered, sir. They are ready."

Urianus turned towards his coach leaving his back to them, "With all the turmoil that is going on with the king, Hawk won't have a clue that he is being infiltrated by us. Abertawe should have finished us when they had the chance. Now, Nethbo is going to gain the upper hand.

Have the men travelling by dawn. My escort should see me within an hour of their departure. If I haven't arrived, they are to cross the border and search for me. I have a feeling Gwilym and his companion are still searching for me. No matter, he is too stupid to get help and the two are no match for a score of seasoned soldiers." The two guards at the door opened the coach and Urianus walked in. The two riders jumped back in their saddles and headed back the way they came.

Eli shook his head. 'Damn' he thought to himself and headed back to rendezvous with Gwynne at the horses.

"The back of the camp is hardly guarded, just two men. It seems they are prioritizing with just what fourteen men to guard them all?" Gwynne whispered. "If we're going to rescue this person, I suggest we do it soon before the morning sets upon the horizon and alights the forest," Gwynne suggested. "To our camp to report?" Gwynne asked.

Eli nodded, "Gwilym's plan was to attack under the moonlight. I'm sure he'll wish to finish this so we can get back and report to the king what we just heard." The two men mounted and headed back to their own campsite. *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Gwilym sat by the fire and watched Gwynne and Eli ride off. "Hurry back dear friends, may the gods grant you swift feet and safe journey," Gwilym prayed in a whisper. It wasn't quiet enough for a few feet from him at the fire sat Arianna.

"Are you a true believer or just pray from time to time?" Arianna asked. It was all she could think of to start a conversation. She felt nervous being around him after everything that Eli had told her.

Gwilym stared into the fire, "I was taught by mentor that a true knight gains his virtues from the gods while his loyalty is tied to the king. Since the king is ordained in front of and swears an oath to the gods then a knight serves The Gods, country, and king at the same time. So, to answer your question, I am a believer and I pray from time to time." Gwilym grabbed a stick and played with the fire.

Arianna wanted to kick herself. She knew that not all knights necessarily followed the gods but everyone was taught what Gwilym had said. She could tell from his voice that he meant it but, at the same time, it was the 'proper' response to give a knight who was in testing. Arianna assumed that in Gwilym's eyes she was nothing more than a squire. Yet she stared at him and could still see the pain. She tried to forget about it but couldn't, "You must have had a good mentor."

Gwilym lowered his head, "He was my father."

Arianna cursed herself silently in the night sky and sat quietly.

After what felt like an hour, Arianna decided to pry, "I am sorry to have heard about your wife and family." Immediately she regretted asking and stared into the fire.

Gwilym didn't make a move. He just held his eyes on the fire, "Eli must have spoken to you. Which means you probably know more than enough. I am sorry if I have made you uncomfortable."

Arianna snapped her head towards Gwilym. That was not the response she expected, "You have not made me uncomfortable … well … yes, I guess it does. But instead, I feel sorrow for your loss. You must have loved her beyond words to mourn her as you do for so long … your family as well."

Gwilym held a saddened smile, "yes, but it is because I was teased with the knowledge of her existence. It was as if I stared at an angel only to be blinded. We shared two nights after our wedding before I was sent to see the king on a mission. I returned to find her raped and killed. Never will I see children or raise them as my father raised me. In her I found myself and forever a part of me will be dead. Now all I have is my nobility which I don't want. I love being a knight but at the same time I hide from the world in this armor." Gwilym hesitated as he realized all he had said. In the years that had passed, Gwilym had never really spoke of his wife. As Gwilym turned and looked at Arianna, he concluded that it was her resemblance to his beloved that allowed him to be so open. Gwilym could see the same desire and passion in Arianna that he saw in his wife. It joyed him and pained him, "I have never spoken this to anyone since her death so many years ago."

Arianna smiled when Gwilym finally looked at her, "I cannot comprehend the loss you bare but I carry a similar burden when it comes to family. I was raised by my adopted parents. I never knew my father, and my mother died when I was a babe. I have wondered all these years what they were like and if I was like them. One day I hope to find my father but I don't have a clue where to start for I know nothing of him."

Gwilym was happy to turn this conversation towards her problems, "It seems we all have burdens to bare. Maybe, when this is over, I could help you find him? Alterian seems to know a lot and I'm betting he could point us in the right direction and tell us where to begin."

Arianna thought 'what luck' and pulled herself out of this emotional rut Gwilym had her in. She begin to calculate how Gwilym might help her get close to her bastard of a father. Once Gwilym helped her uncover the truth about her father having her mother killed just to save his nobility, Gwilym will be in her defense when she challenged her and killed him. Arianna put her best innocent look on her face, "Sir Gwilym, I'd like that a lot."

The two sat in conversation and waited for Eli and Gwynne to return. Two hours later Gwynne and Eli returned to find Gwilym keeping watch of the surrounding area while Arianna slept by the fire. The noise of the two men riding in to camp and dismounting woke Arianna up. Gwilym walked over to the riders.

"Good to see you have returned. What news have you of the camp site?" Gwilym asked.

Gwynne looked to Eli and back to Gwilym, "Eli looked over the front of the camp. I took the back. It is guarded by two men, full armor and armed with swords. One had a bow as well. It looked to be the best place to enter the camp. I say we attack at night, swiftly as they are sleeping, may not be honorable but it will be an easy fight and we can get this Uranus fellow. What do you think Eli?" Gwynne asked, looking from both men. Gwynne truly believed that the silent, swift approach was the best way.

Eli nodded to Gwynne, "I agree to make things swift and quiet. My suggestion would be to keep Arianna back with her bow. This keeps her out of the fray, yet she would still be very effective and useful." Eli looked over towards Arianna who, upon hearing the scenario, got up to come join the trio. Arianna did not look pleased.

"I will NOT be held back from combat for 'safekeeping'! I have been inspired to be a knight my whole life and, be damned, I'm going to be held back for fear of injury. A knight serves to lay his life on the line and I WILL be up front with you!" Arianna was not pleased at all.

"You will hold your tongue, squire, NOW!" Gwilym stood directly in Arianna's face. This was the kind of insubordination that would keep her from becoming a knight. Gwilym glanced over towards Gwynne for a moment before he continued to lay into Arianna.

Arianna's eyes widened as she realized her tongue reacted before her brain started thinking. She hoped Gwilym would not be as long or as bad as her mentor was. Arianna gained her composure and came to full attention.

"This is not an open discussion for you, and you WILL obey those above you! I hope I am making myself perfectly clear. You will address every knight here with honor and respect or the only job you will be seeing inside the castle will be with a mop in your hands." Gwilym paused and deep inside his head gave a little chuckle. It wasn't really all that long ago that he was an eager knight in waiting and was a bit too outgoing for his own good. Arianna's passion would serve her well if she could learn to control it.

Arianna lowered her head in shame. This was not the time to be fool headed, "I am really sorry, Sir Gwilym, Sir Eli, and Sir Gwynne. Please, don't take my fool words to heart. I will do as you all think is best. I wish so hard to prove myself to you all that I reacted poorly in the process. Sir Gwynne, I hope I have not brought you shame for my actions since you are my caretaker at the moment."

"Arianna, the only thing against you is that your tongue speaks before your mind has time to react and decide on a tactful course. You're the best archer here, that's a compliment, not a slight," he added, a gentle but scolding tone. "So, mind yourself and learn teamwork," he told her, turning back to Gwilym. Gwynne liked the fire in the lass' soul; she just didn't know when to restrain her tongue.

Gwilym lightened the moon on his face, "All is well lass. Now, you have told me of your accuracy with the bow. The three of us have the experience with the sword. You will be more valuable to us from a distance." Gwilym turned to face the two knights, "I think that you two should come up from the southern side as you have said, Gwynne. I am going to come from the north near the coach. I'll wait until the three of you commit the attack and, with the guards distracted with you all, I will go after Urianus and Bethen. What say you all?"

Eli smiled at Arianna, "No harm done. Think things through and see the advantage from every situation. You desire is happily noted. We have all been there at some point in our lives." Eli looked to Gwilym, "I agree with the plan, if this is your wish. I am not really sure if it is smart to be on the north side. If things don't go as planned, and they rarely do, you could find yourself in a sticky situation. I am also aware that you were specifically tasked to bring in Urianus and he has shamed you. I'll do my part."

Arianna blushed, "Thank you. I will follow with whatever you all decide. You can count on me."

"Gentleman and lady," Gwynne replied with a smile. "Perhaps, it would be best if we split up? Sir Eli and myself can ambush the guards from behind and create a ruckus that will gain at least some of the guards' attention. Arianna can provide cover for you Sir Gwilym in case things become difficult. We can work our way to the carriage from the north side, and Arianna can pluck two or three off quickly. Eli and I can surely take out a couple quickly by ambushing them. Cutting down the time it takes and acting quickly. Four to six odds are better than three to nine, eh?" Gwynne asked. Refining his original strategy. This would serve to make Arianna happy, putting pressure on her marksmanship and at the same time allow the band of knights to take out four to six of the enemy rather quickly, giving them better odds. Gwynne turned to Arianna and smiled at her, hoping his idea had pleased her. It was becoming harder to hide his attraction to the lass the more he saw her eager spirit.

"Aye, Sir Gwynne. Everything sounds in order. What say you all? Let's ride and finish this," Gwilym turned and headed towards his horse. "Keep light. We'll leave our equipment here and pick it up on our return."

"Aye. I am ready," Eli said as he started to move towards his horse. He suddenly stopped and faced Gwynne, "I'll have your back. You can count on that." Eli smiled and continued on to his horse.

Arianna noted Gwynne's attraction to her. She thought 'maybe when this is done. If things don't go well with Gwilym's help then I could use this man to get closer to my father'. Gwynne would make it complicated, though, since she would no doubt have to pretend to hold a relationship with him and, like all men, would expect the pleasures that accompany such status. Gwilym, though attracted to her, show no interest since he still mourned his dead wife. That road seemed easier to travel with no issues attached.

Arianna looked at the men, "I am ready as well." They may want her to use her bow, but if things got messy, she was going to go in. Arianna needed the hand to hand combat to prove herself. No one said it, but she knew it to be true.

Gwynne smiled at everyone, "I am ready as well. Remember, teamwork and timing will allow us to accomplish this rescue." Gwynne then strode towards his horse, sprang up into the saddle confidently and was ready.

The four rode off into the dark. A half an hour later, they found a hiding place for their horses and split up. Each to their respect site. Gwilym paused for a moment and watched Eli and Gwynne head out. "Be careful my friend," Gwilym whispered for Eli's safety. Gwilym pondered the friendship that had formed between the two men and smiled.

Gwilym signaled for Arianna to follow and the two left for the campsite. Another half an hour later and they had found the spot that Gwynne had referred to for Arianna to stand. Arianna and Gwilym observed the campsite from the vantage point, "I agree with Sir Gwynne whole heartedly, this is an excellent site. You will have a good vantage point of where they will come out from the south as well as the coach where Urianus is staying. You have a little bit of altitude as well." Gwilym appeared quite pleased.

"It is definitley a lot easier to shoot downhill than up," Arianna said smiling at Gwilym. "Go, I am ready."

Gwilym headed down to the north end of the site and snuck around until he found a good position to spring out from the moment Eli and Gwynne began their assault. Gwilym pulled out his claymore and stuck it in the ground. Then he removed his two throwing axes and waited.

When Gwynne saw that Eli was in position, he gave the knight the signal and they attacked. Gwynne had his arm around the first guard's neck quickly. The guard caught Gwynne unprepared and flipped Gwynne over his head and onto the ground. Gwynne smiled, pulled out his dagger and when the guard came at him he received a dagger in his gut. The other guard yelled for help.

Gwynne ran forward at the three that came at him, "Hello gentleman, it's a good day for you all to die, shall we?" he smiled, sword drawn and ready.

Meanwhile Eli had killed the one guard and was also facing three guards. Gwynne and Eli found that these guards were better than most and found it difficult to take all three on at once. Eli's strength and Gwynne's agility and quickness were more than a match for these guards, and their distraction was a success. Gwynne's plan was going well.

Gwilym watched the initial attack by Gwynne and Eli. The guards by the fire rose to meet their attackers and that's when Gwilym leapt into action heading straight for the coach. The two guards out front of the coach were not surprised by Gwilym, though, and met him head on.

Gwilym launched his throwing axe at one of the guards, but the man was experienced and dodged the attack. Gwilym then grabbed his claymore he had stuck in the ground, and the steel from the three men clashed. Gwilym stayed defensive and awaited a mistake from his opponent.

Arianna watched the men from the fire rise up once Gwynne and Eli attacked then observed Gwilym spring into action. Arianna took aim and fired. One of the guards who, was originally around the fire, hit the dirt with an arrow through his neck before he finished unsheathing his blade. Arianna took aim and fired once more piercing the heart of a second man before everyone was engaged. After that, she couldn't find a clean shot. Keeping her eye on any opportunity, Arianna proceeded to the camp with an arrow knocked and ready.

Gwilym parried high from a downswing, which unfortunately exposed his sided. The second guard saw the opening and stepped in but came to close. Gwilym found his first error and moved even closer to the guard to prevent enough distance for him to be able to attack. Since Gwilym's parry was high, he brought his hands down hitting the guard in the head with the hilt of his sword. The guard stumbled back and was dazed for a few seconds, which was all Gwilym needed.

Now in a one-on-one situation, Gwilym went on the offensive finishing with his blade buried in the first guard's stomach. The second guard regained his senses and came at Gwilym. Gwilym retaliated with a series of short bursted attacks keeping the guard off balance. By the time the guard regained his composure, he felt Gwilym's claymore bite his neck.

Before Gwilym had a chance to observe his surroundings, another guard had appeared and was charging at Gwilym's back. Arianna had made her way down to the site and had switched to her sword. She saw the atack on Gwilym and realized he would not have enough time to react. Arianna was close enough to throw a body block at the guard to prevent his attack. The guard had not seen her clear the trees and was caught off guard. They both tumbled to the right of Gwilym startling him in the process.

Gwilym saw things well in hand for Eli and Gwynne and decided to observe Arianna while keeping an eye on the coach to ensure Urianus did not escape.

Arianna and the guard came to their feet simultaneously and began on the offensive. Gwilym could tell the guard was very skilled with his sword. Arianna observed this too, and realized that this guard was much better than she was. Arianna utilized her speed and agility to keep the man's attacks at bay hoping for an opening to occur. Moments later, though, it was Arianna that faltered and the guard came in for the kill. Arianna realized that she was either going to take the brunt of the attack or lose her weapon during the parry. She opted to parry, and the guard as expected disarmed her.

Arianna didn't attempt to retrieve her weapon or draw a new one much to the dismay of Gwilym and surprise of the guard. Arianna poised herself in some foreign stance which neither of the men had seen before.

'This should be interesting,' Gwilym thought to himself.

The guard, seeing that he was fighting an unarmed woman, grinned in overconfidence. He circled her for a second then came in with a full strength thrust. Arianna side spun the attack allowing the momentum of the guard to take him past her. Arianna spin move had her facing the guard's back before he realized what was going on. Arianna then leapt into the air, spun her body around, and kicked the guard in the face as he turned to face her. The guard twisted around and fell on his face as blood flew from his mouth. Arianna jumped on his back and snapped his neck before he could recover.

Gwilym's smiled showed he was impressed with Arianna's performance and the two walked over to the door of the coach.

Meanwhile, Gwynne and Eli had been taking the attention of six of the guards off of the coach and doing a rather handy job of it. There were twelve guards when Gwynne and Eli attacked and now there was only four, not including Urianus. Gwynne was using his quickness to outmaneuver the guards-but when he saw that Gwilym and Arianna were through the guards at the coach it was time to rid these pesky guards of their souls.

Gwynne's strength was not gargantuan, so his weapon was a longsword with a beautiful ivory handle, not heavy but functional and aesthetic. It seemed to glide and float when it was in Gwynne's hand and the two remaining guards he'd been toying with were no match for him when he was finally willing to kill them. A series of parries, ducks, kicks, somersaults and some fancy acrobatics and the guards laid dead on the muddy ground. Eli had quickly dealt with his attackers as well and the two knights made their way to Arianna and Gwilym.

Gwilym nodded to Gwynne and Eli as he saw they were approaching. Before anyone could open the door, though, Urianus had the door swung open and held a knife to Bethen's throat. An evil smile twisted on Urianus' lips.

"You Coward!" Gwilym shouted, but before he could take a step forward, Urianus drew the tiniest amount of blood from Bethen's neck. Everyone could here her gasp from the pain.

Eli quickly held his arm out to easy his friend, "Think rationally, Gwilym. Let's not give him a reason to kill her."

Urianus laughed, "I had no idea Alterian's pup had any intelligence." Urianus' eyes glared at Gwilym, "Yes, DUKE, don't give me a reason to kill the whore."

Arianna was standing farthest to the left side of Urianus who was too busy focusing on Gwilym to pay her any attention. With a flash of her wrist, she had unsheathed her dagger and flung it at Urianus' head. It didn't land as expected, but the result was superb. The hilt of the dagger caught him in the temple. Urianus flung his head back losing his grip on Bethen. She fell to the right and was caught by Gwynne as Gwilym slammed into a stunned Urianus.

Urianus and Gwilym both bounced off the back of the coach and rolled to the side with Gwilym coming up on top Urianus. Anger was visible in Gwilym's eyes as he quickly unsheathed his dagger and held the point at Urianus throat.

"Kill me! You Murderer! My death will stain you just as all the innocent children you killed in Gorrerdan! Hero of Mor Hafren …. Blah. You are the coward who killed women and children!"

Gwilym's eyes began to water and he tightened his fists around the knife when he felt a comforting hand rest on his shoulder.

"Easy, my friend, don't allow him to play with your mind. You have nothing to prove to him or us. Your honor is intact. Bring this man to the king for punishment. He will not taint the mind's of those around you with his lies."

Gwilym looked up at the faces of each of his comrades and his rage went away. Turning back to Urianus, Gwilym smiled, "I hope the king's torture is long and painful." Urianus formed his mouth to spit at Gwilym when Gwilym's hand smashed upside Urianus' temple rendering the man unconscious.

Gwilym then rose to greet Bethen, "Cedric died saving my life. He will always be remembered for his valor. He may have only been a soldier, but he had the heart of a knight. He was my best friend." Bethen began to cry and buried her head in Gwilym's shoulder.

Eli bound Urianus then checked on the status of the coach and all of the horses. It appeared as though they would not only bring back the traitor but also have a sizeable gift for the king in the process. It seemed Urianus brought his most valuable possessions along with him.

Arianna walked over towards Gwynne, "So, Sir Gwynne, how did I do?" She wasn't being impatient. She just felt like getting right to the point. Gwilym had taken the time to give Gwynne his assessment on her performance. Gwilym had indicated that though she could still use a little training in the broadsword, her general hand to hand was exceptional. She also knew that her two arrow shots in the camp would speak for itself.

"It seems as though Abertawe will have a new knight, and a pretty one at that," he bowed to her playfully. "Welcome to the knighthood milady."

By morning the group had set off for Alban.

"Saying I was his fiancee...honestly what was he thinking? Like I'd marry a guy like...he isn't Sparrow..." Renny fumed, pacing up and down her room angrily. Since arriving back at the Castle Renny had: lost another maid, ruined a dress and made an enemy of one of the gate guards. Before she arrived? Much worse.

Hitting one of the bedposts with her foot, Renny howled and fell to her butt clutching her bruised foot. Biting her lower lip to keep from screaming and crying, Renny cursed all the men she knew; from the King to Sparrow, she cursed them to the deepst, darkest, filthiest hole.

"That...that man! 'Edmund'," she mocked. "What does he know? How can I be his Renalla? My name is Renalla AP Capall, not UI Capall. I know my NAME." she went on, her pain forgotten on this latest tirade. "Now I know why mother killed father...or whatever she did to him...never a straight answer. Probably why Renalla-if that is her name-left that sodding pretty boy."

"I... I'm sorry, Renalla. I didn't know you felt that way. You always seemed pleased about the idea, I... *we*, had talked about it before." For a moment his face flashed in her mind, the way he looked when she said she didn't love him. The pain she felt saying that. *Non-sense...pity...not pain.* she told herself sternly.

"I would have moved on if I had cared nothing for you." Unconcsiously Renny wondered if Sparrow would have. "If I disappeared...as this Renalla seemed to have...would he wait years for me? Would he comb the known world for me?" Renny tried to picture Sparrow doing just that. "No...he'd wait all right; two or three months tops. By the next year he and RAVEN would be together." she answered quietly, able to picture THAT happening.

Sitting quietly on her bed, Renny finally stopped and thought about what was said exactly. "He said my father searched for me...mother says Father is gone or dead or--" Renny broke off, narrowing her eyes. "Once--when I had her off guard--she claimed he was A NOBLE MAN."

Renny grasped her head and cried out at the pain in her head. Sobbing, she bent over her knees and waited for the pain to subside. When it finally did, Renny's knees were to her chest and she laid in a fetal position. Tears streamed down her face as her eyes stared into space, unfocused. "Its not possible..." she whispered.

Hours passed along the quiet stream, ushering the moon to its apex in a cloudless night sky. Swaying in the saddle, Miren repeatedly drifted into a light sleep and was repeatedly jolted awake when her balance was lost. However exhausted, she pressed on. The river known as The Nore would guide her to a small community and the highway located beside it. From there, she could take a clear route to Alban.

A loud crack caused Miren to jump, and she muttered bitterly when she realized that her ride had merely stepped on a dead branch. Just as her eyelids began to sink once more, the horse gently tossed its head and came to a halt. Alerted, Miren leaned forward and peered into the distance. Across the river, a few specks of yellow shone weakly through the trees. Respite, at last! She thought, and with renewed vitality, she urged the mare across a shallow.

The trees began to thin as the pair grew closer to the village. Another whit of yellow popped into view, then another, and all together, the specks formed into gleaming squares. Miren lead her mount over a short green, inspecting the buildings that were now clearly visible under the light of the moon. As anticipated, a small hanging signpost revealed a nearby inn.

Miren lead her mare into the adjoining stable and deftly removed the animal's tack. A sandy-haired stableboy, covered in bits of straw, slept toward the back of the room, but the red-haired visitor did not bother him. Rather, she lifted her skirts and silently stepped past, moving through the inn's side entrance.

The place was quiet, as only a handful of men lingered about the tables. Those who did hovered just above their mugs or bowls, their faces dark and forlorn. Slumped in a corner, one man seemed as if he had fallen asleep in the very act of taking a drink. Miren's expression flickered in a grimace before she turned her eyes away.

"Evenin', lady," said the barkeep as Miren approached. He gave her a sidelong appraisal, but his visage said nothing of surprise.

"I'd like a small room for one night," answered Miren as she drew her leather brat more tightly about her shoulders. "And your cheapest drink." The barkeep's wiry brow lifted, but he plucked a scarred mug from the counter and began filling it from a large cask. A few moments of silence slipped by.

"Is this tavern always so lively?" Miren asked.

The tender grunted and set a mug of dark liquid before the woman. "Only as of late. Not many live here ta begin with, and those tha' do have been forced on a night watch." Miren took a swig from the mug, her brows lowered in interest.

"A watch? What for?"

"Thieves," replied the barkeep, his arms locking over his chest. "Seems quite a few cattle 'ave disappeared the past month." Miren's lips pursed. She had heard of the same in Tywyn. But the barkeep continued, "An' did y'see the man sleepin' in tha corner? His little girl was taken two days past. Not a trace o' the one who took her was left behind, either." The tender finished his words with a solemn nod, and Miren glanced over her shoulder to get a second look at the man in the corner. She saw now that even in sleep, his expression was one of grief and ruin.

"How awful," whispered Miren, briefly forgetting her own losses.

"An' those other men -- they are wonderin' how they will manage to feed their families," the barkeep added. "Poor bastards." With something of a frown, Miren swept her pale eyes across the sparse and scattered crowd. These were people who suffered, but their care did not fall into her domain. She remembered her brother and his desire to help the fight against Nethbo. Branoc always tried to play the hero, she thought bitterly. I may be a shepherdess, but these are not my sheep. I can do nothing here.

"About that room," said Miren aloud. What little pity and interest she had spared for the villagers seemed to have melted away. One hand dipped into her pouch while the other lifted the mug to her awaiting lips. Both mug and coin then came down at once upon the counter before her. "I'd like to retire now."

"What news do you have?" Moira, Captain of the Lotus Band of Outlaws, asked. She stood hands clasped behind her back, facing the practice arena of camp.

"Not'ing you'd like ma'am," the girl, hidden amongst the shadows of the tent's flap, whispered.

Barking an order for tougher practice, Moira entered her tent and sat heavily on a stool near a table. On the table sat a map of Alban's Castle and surroundings. Little blue stones appeared every so often, marking a particular spot to watch. Red stones meant places safe to hide at.

"Tell me anyway." Moira ordered sharply. "My daughter...she is too willful to trust."

The girl nodded and stepped closer. "'er and some other gal--lookin' like 'er--went on a pinic. The girl that looked like 'er later met her and inside the Swan they met wit...wit one of your daughter's old friends." the girl paused, taking a deep breath. "From afore ma'am."

"Is that so?" Moira murmured. "Tell me...what is this 'friend's name?" she asked with strained calm. The scars on her face were taunt and flaring red from the strain of not unleashing her anger.

"Tis a guy Cap'ain. Wit blond 'air and blue eyes." the girl thought for a moment.

"I want you to deal with this...problem."

"Ma'am? your daughter?"

"Is a risk." Moira stated firmly. "Anything else?"

The girl didn't want to be hurt for not telling the Captain something, but she'd get hurt for telling the Captain. "'e mentioned 'er father. 'e also mentioned 'er old life."

The blow hit the girl straight out the tent's flap, her jaw broken and out cold.

Raven, Sparrow and Bear all jumped back as one. "Did you hear that?" Raven asked. "Miss Alberwine isn't as perfect as you think Sparrow." Raven purred malicely, enjoying her rival's pain.

With a growl Sparrow kicked Raven's legs from under her. "Renny is Perfect you two bit tramp!" Sparrow spat at her. "Never let me hear you say otherwise." he warned, his eyes glittering with contempt.

"Whoa boy-oh..." Bear soothed, holding him back by the shoulders. Sparrow shrugged him off and stalked away. "Yah better watch yer tongue 'bout Renny around Sparrow. Mite protective he is." Bear cautioned, following after Sparrow.

After a moment of thought, Raven got herself up, adjusted her breat plating and ran after the two.

"Where are yah going Sparrow?" Bear asked, easily keeping up. Though Sparrow had longer legs, Bear's strides were quick and efficient. "The Cap'ian won't like yer disapearing...again."

"The Captain is the least of my concerns." Sparrow snapped, lengthening his strides. "Something's wrong with Renny and I'll be damned if I don't find out what before that bitch does whatever she's gonna do to her."

"Sparrow...I hate to say this but Renny is well-guarded. She's at the freaking castle! Plus she's a good fighter." Raven told him, jogging along side the two.

"Those castle wimps? If a mere slip of a girl like Renny can get past them--what's to stop the WHOLE BAND?" Sparrow asked, turning to face the two.

"She isn't sending the whole band." Bear gently reminded.

"Plus who knows what means Renny used to get past the guards." Raven added.

"I warned you Raven!" Sparrow snarled, jaw clenched and his dagger at Raven's throat.

"Sparrow!" Bear yelled, hauling the boy off. "Next move and you won't need to worry after Renny."

"She said--"

"I didn't mean she had sex with the guy. I meant she's resourceful. Got to admit the girl has a million and one lies." Raven said, backing up a goodly distance.

Sparrow eyed her for a few moments more before mumbling an apology. "We still need a way in." he said morosely.

"Renny mentioned a way in, some squire or such showed her...I think I can remember the place..." Bear said, tapping his chin thoughtfully.

"Its a plan then." Raven said firmly, taking lead now. "We'll go in and..." she sighed and said reluctantly "and Guard Renny."

The three nodded and headed out, each planning on Guarding her in different ways. Each plan interfering with the others'.

A heavy mist coiled around the village green like a glowing serpent, illuminated by an especially bright moon. Miren, clothed in only a pale nightshirt, rubbed her arms for warmth as she peered into the surrounding haze. Though nothing could be seen, several moan-like sounds managed to pass through the barrier of fog.

Miren took a step forward and felt the damp grass slip between her toes. The noise grew louder. One by one, large, bulky forms began to slowly emerge from the wall, their treads thudding against the lawn. Feeling the first flush of panic, Miren quickly retracted her step. Her eyes flickered from side to side, scouting through loose strands of red. Mechanically, a hand rose and brushed away the lock of hair. It was then that the first form left the mist.

For a moment, Miren and the animal exchanged stares. When the latter perceived no threat, it lowered its head and quietly began to graze. Miren released the breath she had been holding. Following in suit, several more cattle lumbered out of the mists. Some moaned quietly, producing sounds that were now clear and identifiable outside the nebulous barrier.

The bull that stood yards from Miren now suddenly stiffened, its ears perking attentively as a dog's might. All at once, the cattle began to move again, plodding past the woman in the center of the green. Miren had to step aside several times to keep out of the way. Along the edge of the mist, she caught sight of another form. This one, though it slunk like a cat, was obviously a man. But there were more. Scanning the wall of fog, Miren now saw that there were four men, and they were silently herding the cattle.

To avoid being seen, she dropped into a crouch among the thick legs of the passing kine. From the corner of her eye she glimpsed one herder signing to another. The hand gestures made little sense to her, but they served as certain evidence. The need for stealth meant that the herd was being stolen.

On her hands and knees, Miren attempted to crawl her way to the edge of the green, praying that her white gown did not reveal her position. She managed to cover several strides before reaching a pair of dark, leather-clad legs. Her eyes, fraught with terror, dared to ascend the length of the figure. There was no mistaking the strength that lay beneath the man's garb.

As Miren lifted her head, the thief caught her chin with his hand and forced her to rise. Petrified, she could do naught but stare back at him. Though the cool color of the sea, his eyes seemed to smolder from behind tousled locks of ebony. The lower half of his face was hidden beneath a raised collar. For several moments he held Miren's jaw with his powerful grip, his other hand resting on the belted hilt of a dirk. Lips parted, Miren prepared to beg for mercy, but like lightning the thief's hand landed over her mouth, stopping her mid-breath.

Miren could not see it, but she knew that the other men were signing to her captor. His glance darted repeatedly past her own. Then, without warning, he spun Miren around and hooked her neck with his elbow. She saw now what the disruption was about. Where she had first stood upon the green there was now a young blond-headed girl, watching quietly through steady blue eyes.

Miren's captor gestured and one of the remaining thieves began a slow approach on the child. The girl regarded the thief curiously until he reached an arm's distance from her. Then, with impossible calm, she opened her mouth and released a scream as loud as one could fathom.

Though thief sprang out and snatched the girl, the damage had been done. The cattle now broke into a dead run, darting past Miren and the thieves, each with the power of a battering ram. Instinctively, Miren took advantage of the distraction, her right elbow slamming into the stomach of her captor. Though she did little damage with the blow, the surprise stunned him momentarily. Miren took the opportunity to hurl her knee into his groin.

As the thief fell to the ground, Miren quickly seized his dirk and sprang out of the way of an oncoming bull. Two of the thieves had already vanished into the mist, but the one who held the girl was struggling. The stampeding cattle had cut the pair off. Miren started toward them, dodging the kine that appeared at one half of the haze and disappeared into the other. Heart pounding more loudly than the hooves that beat against the earth, she raised her weapon and leapt toward the thief.

The edge of the dirk came down upon the man's left shoulder, causing him to cry out in pain and surprise. But he was quicker than his counterpart, and with far less hesitancy, he spun around and knocked the blade from Miren's hand. Shocked and vulnerable, she stood frozen as the thief reached out and clutched her wrist. He snarled viciously before slinging her into the path of the stampeding cattle, and in her last tumultuous moments before she awoke, Miren saw him leave into the mist with the little girl.

*****

Later that day (ooc: after Debts both old and new) Amlyn finished the last of his preparations and began the slow journey to Ruthin, the capital of the kingdom of Nethbo. He was in no particular hurry, for he understood that it would take much longer for the King of Dinodig to travel from his own homeland to meet his fate. So he took his time, paying little attention to the events of the world around him, and mentally preparing himself for what lay ahead.

He wanted no distractions. He needed this time alone, unburdened by nothing but his ultimate task. Mulling over one's life for days on end had a habit of confusing issues for most people. But for Amlyn, it was the beginning of a process of shedding. Like a critical analysis of parts of his history, he would pass judgement on his past actions, think of how things should have done or been approached, and then purge the memories completely.

But some things he kept. His life came down to one issue: his abandonment. As far as he could see, after he was born there were two distinct paths that branched away from that moment. One involved Guaire, King of Dinodig, accepting his blood and taking Amlyn as his son. The second, and the one Amlyn had been subjected to, meant that he had been smuggled away from Guaire's wrath, a bastard son tossed to the whims of fate to lead an existence of misery.

He hated him for it. As much as he had ever loved anyone in his life, his hate for the man was at least three times as strong. It had gone past a screaming rage of anger and red-faced spite. This was more an affliction of cold bloody-mindedness and grim determination, mixed with a emotionless void in his heart that could not be filled. With anything.

At some stage, perhaps as he crossed the river at Ailinne, he thought of the Druids, and that moment at Tamith when his life had travelled to the dark void in death. The past few months had seemed like a boat ride through the fast-flowing water of rough rapids. At times he had seen a glimmer of some sort of hope, or even acceptance, for the possibility of a normal life. Now he recognised that a 'normal' life was not achievable. So he set about immersing himself in that 'truth'.

Lady Morgan's children receded into the bloody-red mist that swirled at the back of his mind. It was the promise that had set him on this path, but it was overwhelmed by the significance of the actions he had to take to fulfil it. Every now and then he would remember the locket under his chainmail. But it fast became a distant memory.

*****

A week later, he crossed into Nethbo. Plumes of black smoke rose up from the forest in the distance to the east, a sight Amlyn recognised only too well. While a border guard was present, they were easily avoidable. Their attention seemed to be focussed inwards, as if keeping the enemy within from escaping. He chose one of the pillars of smoke that lay more or less in his direction and continued his journey.

On the afternoon of that initial day of entry, he emerged from the birch and maple trees and into fallow fields that traversed the side of a broad valley. Further down he could see the source of the smoke: a manor lay in smouldering ruins, a grotesque stoney skeleton set against a backdrop of freshly planted oats across a small stream. Several hundred metres away a cluster of rough and flimsy serf houses stood desolate and abandoned. Taking a few minutes to scan the surrounds, Amlyn started to slowly make his way down to the commons, satisfied that whoever made this damage was no longer here.

The houses were a simple post and beam structure, with walls made from wickerwork and covered over with great quantities of mud. As he rode past, he could see into the windows at the scattered pieces of broken wooden furniture on the hard floors of earth. In one house, an oxen lay dead on the floor, while the corpse of a man, presumably the owner of the animal, lay charred over the smouldering hearth nearby.

Reaching the commons presented another grisly scene. Large patches of blood and viscera soaked the earth. Several bodies, more serfs, had been laid out in a haphazard row alongside one of the houses. Amlyn examined the dead carefully from the back of his horse, moving from body to body to examine their injuries. *Female, Strike to the neck; Female, Pierced in the chest; Female, Back of head caved in, probably... trampled by a horse, while running. Mounted troops. No chance to resist*.

The next corpse to present itself was that of a young boy. His left arm had been cut off, and the boy's right hand was positioned over the bloody stump in what had been a futile attempt to stop the bleeding. Amlyn could see a look of deep terror clearly painted on his pasty white face. He blinked once, and passed on, unmoved.

"You there!" A voice called out.

Amlyn turned and saw a group of about ten serfs, mostly men, and armed with a variety of improvised weapons. They were advancing on him from a trail that wound it's way down to the ruined manor house. As his horse moved around, the man in front caught sight of the red tau cross on Amlyn's surcoat and stopped, his expression changing from one of anger to a look of relief.

"Ah, yo-your apologies my lord," he said, holding out an arm to stop the advance of the mean behind him. "I didn't see your charge. We are still searching for the last of the household knights."

"What happened here?" said Amlyn bluntly.

"The lord of this fief saw fit to bring punishment upon us. It was discovered that we were aiding the Queen against him, and while we were out in the furthest fields he sent his men down here to herd our families into the commons for slaughter." Amlyn could now see that many of the men had the harrowed look of the trauma of loss. "I am Danain, the village reeve. When we witnessed this, I sent word to the Queen's men. They arrived within a day and laid devastation to the lord's manor and knights. I'll not see fit to ever mention the duke's name again my lord, in case you are wondering."

Amlyn wanted to ask who the Queen was, but thought it best to keep up the appearance of someone they obviously recognised. He did not wish to become involved in the problems of others. "I require shelter for the night," he said, imposing on the serfs for hospitality as was due his station.

"We shall clean out the less damaged of the houses, my lord," replied the reeve.

"Gramercy," he replied. Several tired looking peasants walked past, some in blood-stained tunics and leggings. Some couldn't take their eyes off the crooked line of corpses.

The reeve remained near Amlyn. "I shall see what provendor we can supply you with for this evening, my lord."

"Not necessary," replied Amlyn. "I have supplies of my own." He thought about asking Danain a vague enough question to try a get a feel for the current situation in Nethbo. But he realised that a serf's political geography was restricted to the fields and borders of their own fiefs, and it would remain that way for all of their life. This person was not the one to be asking investigative questions. "Is the stream safe to drink from?"

"Aye, my lord, it is." Danain glanced behind Amlyn, and bowed. "May I be dismissed to attend to my duties?"

"You may." Amlyn allowed the man to leave, and began to untie himself from the horse. While the serfs went about cleaning up some of the mess, he took respite by the stream as dusk began to approach.

Bronwen rose as Seth left and began to ready the small house. She hadn't really seen it and was surprised at how well it was outfitted for such a small place. It was warm and comforting some how. She could see little touches Seth had added to insure her comfort and that made her feel even more at home.

Meanwhile.....

Seth had been riding for well over three hours at the fastest pace the horse could bear without overdoing it. He spotted the Men up ahead; he recognized a few, but mostly the injured King. He slowed and called out, "Hello! It is me, Seth McCullen." he hoped they didn't kill him since he was the direct cause of the King's injury.

Hawk saw his new brother in law, and he felt relief. He knew that the young man would never leave his sister if she were in any kind of danger. Yet he was surprised to see him here alone. By now he was too tired to say much.

"My King, I have come to tell you that I have a house only a short ride from here. It is much closer than the castle and very few know about it's existence. Your sister is there preparing for your arrival and I fear I am the cause of your injury. I will do all I can to help you." He was being sincere and it was obvious he was a little nervous and scared for the King.

Hawk hesitated. He knew he had to get back to court as soon as possible, but he was too weak. Maybe if he could stay with his sister for a few days he would feel better. "I will come with you." He said softly." The rest of you ride back to court, and assess the situation there for me. I will try to return as soon as possible."

"It's not wise to leave your highness all by himself and him so soon after being wounded." said Jovis, fully expecting to get another earful from the King about that. But it was the truth, and he was not enough of a courtier to want to sugarcoat it.

Hawk smiled tiredly. At least the young man was loyal. "My body guards will be coming with me. I can use you in the capital, I know I can't stop you coming with me, so do as your conscience tells you."

Seth called to them as well and said, "I would suggest a doctor of some sort as well." he turned his attention to the King and said, "You are injured. I think that would be best?" Seth hoped that he wasn't out of line.

"My knights already took care of me, I will be fine after a day of rest." He lied. He knew very well that his sister wouldn't rest until he had seen a healer. But he could keep thinking he would be fine for now. Since Audrey died, he didn't want to see another healer.

"As you wish, though I am sure your sister, my wife, will have something else to say about that. Come, let us ride so that you may rest all the sooner."

Seth smiled and knew the King would not mind him being a little open with him.

Hawk grumbled a little at that, nothing his brother in Law could understand, because it was not favorable about women. He nodded and then followed.

"Thank you for coming with me my king. The house may be four hours away at most. How did you come to be injured?" Seth figured he should still be formal, even if he had called him Hawk before.

Four hours seemed like a dreadful long time to the injured man, but he had his pride, so he didn't say anything. "Lead on" the King commanded.

Seth nodded and said, "Yes sire." He rode on and was only riding about 1/4 of his original pace, which was still a good pace, but nothing to match his previous all out run.

Jovis shook his head. Four hours was forever for someone wounded like the King; this was folly. But he saddled up the horses for himself and the King - the others could manage their own beasts - and mounted up. And if that fellow Seth didn't watch it, he'd kill his horse.

Hawk soon became very tired. He hardly noticed what was going on around him, All his energy was focused on staying in the Saddle, and not making a fool of himself.

Seth noticed the king appeared very weary and asked, "Sire, do you need any help?" Seth could tell he was losing energy and might soon need to be helped.

"Aye, he does." said Jovis. "We'll have to let him rest, or bind him to the saddle." Jovis was feeling a bit put-upon by the sheer foolishness. "Which would you prefer, your highness?"

"I am not a sissy." Hawk managed to get out. "I can ride." He gave Jovis a 'I don't know why I put up with you look'. And he was even more determined now not to show them his weakness.

Jovis merely moved his horse to the left side of the King, so his right hand was free to catch the King when he fell. If it had been Jovis wearing the crown and feeling the pain, he'd be flat on his back issuing peevish demands for ginger water and treats. But Jovis was a bit sensible; it went with being Northern.

It didn't take much longer than half an hour, before hawk began to slip out of the saddle.

Time to rest." said Jovis, and made a grab for the King's horse's reins.

Dame Mae and Sir Shannon were sent back to the Capital to tell the King's parents of their plans. Meanwhile, the King needed attending to.

The soft glow of dawn had faded gradually into the light of early morning before Feirha and Iorwerth entered the estate formerly belonging to Thomas O'Malley and the current retreat of Lady Morgan - also known as The Raven. Iorwerth's rage at the threat to his daughter had turned inward and smouldered within his heart. Feirha had similarly turned towards his own inner thoughts, searching for the tattered threads of his faith that might bear him forward on this vital mission. He had also scoured his memories for some reference to their prey - Rowena had been so convinced that Morgan felt she knew the former Knight of Faith of Dinas Dwr - but Feirha had not the slightest sliver of recollection.

They guided their mounts down the wide, tree-lined approach road, more aware of the shadows to their sides then the large estate house ahead of them. If an attack were to come, now was a perfect ambush opportunity. If all the evidence were correct and the Lady Morgan was indeed the so-called Raven, mysterious leader of the Sect of Donn - god of death and the underworld - then it was inconceivable that she would be here unprotected.

Iorwerth was still angry, the thought that this woman might want to harm his children, his little girl was too much for him. He had never before harmed a woman, the old duke was old fashioned that way. But for this one he would gladly make an exception.

The manor seemed as any other. Chickens and Dogs ambled about the yard. Servants hurried about on various duties. As the two men approached, a liveried youth came to hold their horses' heads.

Iorwerth dismounted quickly. "Where can we find your mistress." He asked the young man.

"She is the main parlor, milord." The young man answered with a slight bow. Another servant came to show the two men the way. As soon as Feirha had dismounted, they were shown into the manor home and then into a parlor. A woman with beautiful long blonde hair turned from the fireplace to meet them. She was small and would have fit the one god's cleric's images of an angel.

"The Devil Himself was once the highest of God's angels," Feirha reminded himself, hardening his heart against the woman's appearance. He may have foresworn such desires many years ago, but he was still human.

"My lady," Iorwerth remembered his manners, barely. So this was the woman who was after his children, and might have had his son's mistress killed.

"Lord Iowerth, I must say I am surprised to have visitors?" She looked cautiously at Feirha. "I could have come to the castle?"

As she surreptitiously studied the Priest-Knight, so he in turn carefully scrutinised Morgan. He was reminded briefly of Lady Alanis - the set and shape of the features perhaps? - but failed to place the woman.

"It would seem that you did indeed visit the castle My Lady," Feirha replied in a carefully measured voice, "and I must say you seem to have caused something of an impression among several members of the Royal Court."

"Really, I only visited the castle three times? I left because I prefer matters here to the bowing and scraping of a royal court. No offense to those who prefer such matters, your grace.." She said to Iowerth. She was making sure she did not look directly to Feirha. "I already have a feeling why you are here. The princess took me in extreme dislike at her garden the last day I was in Alban. I suspect she has given you cause for concern."

Iorwerth felt hot anger that she had the guts to begin to talk about his daughter. He took a step forward, and his face began to get red. He opened his mouth to start telling her what he thought of her.

Morgan took a reflexive step backwards. Here was a man who would react by emotion before intellect. She would have to step more carefully.

Iorwerth saw her hesitate, so he walked toward her. "Why does my daughter dislike you, my lady." He said very softly.

"I am unsure, Your Grace. I d-did not ask her. She stumbled and when I caught her, she reacted quite violently. I suppose she does not like assistance with her ailment?" Morgan's eyes grew large and fearful.

The old general towered over her. "You don't fool me. And you do not threaten my children. My son left me in charge while he is gone, and I can have you thrown in gaol, for even looking at me. Crying doesn't work with me, woman."

Feirha had not dared stand in the general's way but the priest-knight felt things had started to go too far. The one seasoned campaigner slid subtly between the other and the target of his anger. "Before we let you be thrown in the gaol however, my lady, perhaps you would be able to answer a few questions in your defence," Feirha flashed Iorwerth a glance that tried to convey the need for caution with this woman: Raven or not, she would quite clearly make a clever and dangerous adversary. Feirha had still hoped to try and approach their meeting as an informal, social meeting, using Sir Gwynn's half-promise of an introduction to break the ice.

Morgan mutely nodded. Every inch of her was the terrified noblewoman. She gave no sign of being the dangerous adversary that they both expected of her.

"Quite separate from his Grace's own concerns over his only daughter, I have been conducting my own investigation on behalf of the king. Fate, perhaps God, has seemingly brought our paths together." Feirha spoke with the tone and pace one might use in a sermon, seemingly calm and relaxed on the surface but quite clearly discouraging interruption or distraction. "The King's mistress and betrothed was murdered in her chambers inside the royal apartments." The knight paused waiting for a reaction, and seeing none, continued.

"My investigations have revealed that she was murdered by a woman - or at least at her orders - known only as the 'Raven'. This woman is the head of a secret and murderous sect of the ancient god Donn, and they seek a prophesised child seer. As the Lady Audrey was a renowned healer it is extremely likely that she came into contact with this seer." Feirha ended his speech as a question. A question aimed squarely at Lady Morgan.

"And you wish to know what from me?" Her voice trembled with obvious distress. Her eyes remained large and tears threatened though they did not spill.

Iorwerth held himself in check with difficulty. He didn't believe the tears for a moment, well maybe some part of him did. The old general didn't like seeing a woman cry. But this time he waited, leaving diplomacy to the other man.

Feirha acted as though he was a little confused by the woman's question before feigning sudden realisation. "I apologise madam. This murder," and here he emphasised the word, "took place mere days before you arrived in Abertawe. I wondered if you might perhaps have heard, or seen, anything unusual or significant."

It was obvious to all that they were both playing games. Perhaps it would, in fact, be easier to have her arrested and taken to the dungeons. But the chance that she was innocent, however slim it might be, held Feirha from that course.

"I can honestly say that I had no knowledge of this murder or how it took place. If it was before I arrived in the city, then I can find those to vouch for me that I was truly in route to the city during that time?" Morgan had truly not had anything to do with this woman's death.

As Feirha made to reply he saw, for the barest moment, the flash of innocence in Morgan's eyes. While he now knew she was not responsible for Audrey's death he also knew that she had much else to feel guilty about, if such emotions could affect her. "For reason's unknown to me my lady, I feel inclined to believe you in this matter. 'By thy deeds alone shall ye be judged.' However, it is my duty to warn you thus: Should you make efforts to harm the Princess or any of the Royal household, then I shall not rest until you are brought to justice. Even if I must follow you into the very Pit of Hell." The passion in the priest-knight's voice was clear to all.

"An impassioned statement without need." Morgan said with a frown. "I have done nothing to earn such ire from either of you?"

That made Iorwerth angry again. "My daughter is afraid of you. And she is not the kind of child that is afraid without a reason. So if you ever come near to her with out her consent, I will kill you." His voice was very soft, and very very cold.

"As you wish your grace." She said, meeting his eyes boldly.

Feirha sighed softly. "Lady Morgan, I may not share Rowena's special gift of perception, but I know that I do not trust you. You may be a great threat to throne of Abertawe or you may simply be another plotting noble. However, I have no evidence, and that is the only reason that I am leaving you now." The priest-knight turned on his heel and walked from the house, ordering his mount to be returned to him. While he waited for his horse he cursed himself, both for losing control, and for allowing his emotions to lead him to this situation.

Morgan watched the knight go and hoped the Lord would follow him as well. She would not breath easier till they were both well and away.

Iorwerth had not followed the knight outside. When she talked back to him, he had seen so much coldness in those eyes, that in an instant he knew that she was a threat to his daughter. And his hand krept to the hilt of this sword. nobody would dare touch him if he killed this female. He was the King's father, and therefore above the law. The only thing that was stopping him at this moment was that he had never killed a woman before. But he was very, very close.

Morgan's eyes turned to his and thus they stood for what seemed hours. Morgan did not speak. She could see that her life hung in the balance of those eyes and knew better then to utter a word. However, she did not look away either for if he was going to kill her, she was not about to take such a below unknowingly.

He stood there for a long time, unsure of what he would do. But finally decided he could not kill a woman like that. In battle maybe, but he was not a murderer. "Stay away from me and mine." He said very softly. And then left.

Morgan let her breath out, unaware she had even been holding it. That had been very close. She knew that there was little that had kept him from ending her life right there. But she needed his daughter and when the time came, Morgan always took what she felt was hers.

++++++++++

*outside castle walls*

"So we're agreed then." Sparrow whispered, crouching low near the Castle Walls. To his left Bear sat crossed legged, regarding the young man thoughtfully and to his right sat Raven, in as provactive a pose as possible.

"Yes." Raven said immediately, forgetting what she had agreed too. "To save Renny, yes agreed." she added.

"All right boy-oh, as yah wish to save Ren I'll help yah," Bear agreed, standing slowly.

"Good then let's--"

"Sparrow?" the faint voice questioned from a crack in the wall.

"Renny?!" all three exclaimed at once.

"I...I need you guys Sparrow..." Renny choked out, still clutching her aching head. She had long since stopped crying, but dry sobs still wracked her every so often.

"Miss Perfect got a broken leg?" Raven muttered, glaring at the crack darkly.

One by one the small group went from their hiding place to Renny with her soft instructions to the secret passage. "Just...watch for the guard...in a minute..." Renny whispered, squeezing her eyes. "It hurts Sparrow..." she cried, leaning against the wall.

Sparrow clenched his fist and restrained himself from leaping the wall. "A little while longer and we will be together Ren...just a little while..." he whispered soothingly.

Renny didn't answer, she was slumped against the wall in a tight ball of pain. Her dress--what was left--was torn everywhere and her hair had long since became a tangled mess. To Sparrow and Bear though, all they saw was her misery. Even Raven had to admit the girl looked pretty far gone.

Renny managed to guide them to her rooms to safety--any guards they met Bear quickly dealt with--and locked the door behind them. Sparrow gently laid Renny down on her bed and stretched beside, smoothing her hair and whispering sweet soothing words into her ear.

Bear stood beside the door, arms crossed in his typical defensive manner. Raven took out each of Renny's dresses and held them against herself in the mirror. "Your girlfriend sure is flat..." Raven murmured over her shoulder.

"Your sorry excuse for a chest are nothing but melons you forgot to swallow..." Renny retorted before coughing. She gazed up at Sparrow's hovering face and for a moment saw an older man's face, full of concern, leaning over her. "None of its true Sparrow..." she whispered.

"We know darling...shhh...rest..." Sparrow suggested.

"No! I need...I need to see Edmund. He can set things straight...he can help me..." Renny insisted her voice growing louder by the second to a shrill scream.

"Renny we can help! We've come to guard you against your mother!" Sparrow told her, his mind trying to fit Edmund to something. "Who's Edmund Renny?" Sparrow asked, a bit angrily.

"This is no time for your jealous rantin' Sparrow!" Raven accused, at Renny's other side. "Renny, where is Edmund?" Raven asked, thinking the faster she got Renny off the faster Sparrow shared her bed.

"The Swan...Nia knows him...or Niall...one of them will help..." Renny said, relaxing under Sparrow's careful massaging. "Send Bear..."

"you heard her Bear, off you go!" Raven said briskly, attempting to shove the larger man out. Her mind kept chanting 'Sparrow's Mine lalalala...Renny's dead and crazy...tralalala...'

Bear regarded the ebony-haired beauty with amusement and disgust. "You'll come too." he said firmly, taking her small square hand into his larger callused one. "Meet us in the clearing...you know which one Sparrow." Bear said before disappearing out the door.

Sparrow hurried over and bolted it tight. He leaned against it and wiped his brow with a heavy sigh. On the bed Renny turned over to her side and frowned, kickinf beneath the covers. Smiling a bit fondly, Sparrow went back to the bed to help his beloved feel better.

*****

The following morning after helping Edmund to bed, Nia was surprised to find him standing in her doorway as she pulled it open to head down for breakfast. He looked startled and took a step back to gather his composure. "Are you ok sir?" asked Nia suspiciously.

"Ah! Yes, uh, I vaguely remembered you through the fog of drink last night," replied Edmund with a shy smile. "I just assumed it must have been you who helped me up to my room. I just wanted to thank you. God knows where I would have ended up otherwise."

"I'm glad I could have been of some help," said Nia, relaxing her grip on the door. Edmund looked genuinely embarrassed after last night's events. "How long have you been standing there for?"

"Oh, just a few moments," he said. Then he laughed. "Actually I think it was more a case of minutes. I was trying to remember if this was your room or not."

"Well it certainly is." Nia wasn't sure if there was anything wrong with the man, but she had the impression there was something else he wanted to ask. "I'm going to go downstairs and get something to eat," she said.

"So am I. Can I join you?" He seemed definately nervous.

She raised her eyebrows and drew the door to her room closed behind her. "Sure," she replied.

Later after a quiet meal of bread and bacon, all washed down with a sugary cider, Edmund finally broached the topic that was clearly eating away at him. "How well do you know... Renalla?" he probed.

Nia shrugged. "I've only recently made her acquaintance," she admitted. "I don't know much about her, except that she is staying at court at the behest of her mother." She picked with disinterest at the last crusts of bread in her bowl.

"Her mother?" Edmund blurted.

"Aye, that's what she told me. She also said she intends to 'marry a rich noble'."

Edmund's expression turned from one of shock to misery. "I... admit to not knowing she even had a mother. I'd always believed that she was dead from what I was told."

"Maybe she ran into her and decided to stay," offered Nia. She remembered that Renny had never actually mentioned her father. It all seemed to be 'mother wants this', and 'mother says I should do that'.

"Well... that would obviously be the case if she wants to marry a rich noble," he said, not without a hint of spite. "I... never would have believed it had I not seen it for myself." How people change, he thought.

Nia sighed. "She has a..." What word did she use? "...boyfriend, Edmund." No sense in being diplomatic. Renny clearly wasn't all that upset when she left the room yesterday anyhow. "And I believe she's serious when she says she wants nothing to do with you. Really, that's her choice."

Edmund sighed but said nothing. He reached for the jug of cider and Nia suddenly noticed that he appeared much, much older this morning than he had before. "What are you going to do now?" she asked, by way of conversation. "You're a noble aren't you?"

He took a sip from the cider and rubbed some sleep from the corner of his eye. "I am the youngest son of a large family, Nia. My father died and left me a portion of the estate, but most of it went to the eldest son, and I have spent just about all of my share in my searching. I dare say you would be more wealthy than I at this point. One's name does not feed one's belly too often."

Nia pursed her lips and thought. "Why don't you go back to your brothers and live at home."

He shook his head sadly. "Consider it pride, but I do not wish to burden myself on my family like a parasite. As I said yesterday, I must make my own way in the world now, whether I like it or not. I will have to... work." Despite faltering upon stating his desire for employment, it was clearly an attempt to muster up the conviction in his voice.

She was quietly pleased for him. Many a noble would have preferred to take their own life at the very least, rather than even contemplate a fall from the ranks of the nobility. Of course, it would remain to be seen if Edmund had the 'ticker' to carry out his promise. "What sort of work?"

An anxious expression crossed his face, as he stared off into the distance. Nia could almost hear the cogs at work inside his head. "I... don't... know," he finished, hanging on the last word like he had been frozen in time.

"Something will present itself," she said positively. "The best thing to do would be to get out there and start looking. Right away." She tried on a smile as some sort of encouragement.

Edmund was swirling the cider around in his mug when he stopped, nodding his head with some insight at Nia's words. "I could always work for one of the merchants I guess. I can write, and I was always good at arithmetic. It was never difficult doing the books at home, so an accountant is not out of the question."

"That's it. You'd make a good one." She didn't have a clue what he would be like, but she figured he'd need all the positive words anyone could muster. At least he wouldn't be running about being all sullen and violent like... Amlyn. She frowned.

"... I'm sorry, is something wrong?"

"No! No... just remembering something unpleasant." She shook the thoughts of the black knight from her head and pushed the bowl away, no longer hungry.

As if in response to her unease, Edmund sat forward, suddenly eager to change the topic. "If I may ask, what is it that you are doing here at the Swan?"

"Me!?" Taken aback, she placed a hand on her chest. "Ahhm... I've been sick for some time," she said. "I'm recovering. I used to work for a local lord - but my services are no longer required."

"What did you do?"

"Uh... cleaning, cooking, that sort of thing." All of it was the truth in a bizarre sort of way.

"I see. So there's nowhere to go after here."

Nia's lips grew tight. "I'll find another household," she replied.

"Oh, I'm sure you will," Edmund agreed. "You seem to have a... toughness - no, make that a resilience about you." He then looked at her, like he was trying to examine her critically, but not be too obvious about it.

Nia could feel her cheeks starting to flush. "I don't happen to remind you of Renalla?"

Edmund's shoulders slumped and he looked away, leaning back into his chair. "Aye. You do. But please - don't be offended by it. When you've thought about a person for so long, and dreamt about how wonderful everything would turn out, it becomes difficult to let things go when... they don't become reality."

"You seem to have given up rather easily," she argued softly.

"What am I supposed to do?"

"Go after her and try and convince her that she's wrong."

"You heard her didn't you?" he retorted. " She denies that she has even heard of me! What could have happened to make her say those things?"

"I don't know," Nia interrupted, "but are you going to at least try and find out before you give her up?"

Edmund sighed in exasperation. "My lady," he said formally, "It would appear the best person to try and uncover those reasons may be you." There was a lot of sudden hope in his expression. "She may not suffer my presence again, and you are obviously her friend. Could you find out for me? Please?"

It was Nia's turn to sigh. But she couldn't turn him down: he looked so innocent when he stared at her with those blue eyes. "Alright," she said, giving in. "I'll see what I can do."

Rowena was never far from her mother since her father had ridden out. She sat in the garden, secure that her mother was not far off and her own guard was close by. She sat playing with two dolls, teaching them the ways of druids as she thought it should be.

Iorwerth had calmed down by the time he came back to the capital.. Part of him regretted that he hadn't killed the woman while he had the chance, but he also knew that he would not have been able to live with himself if he had. He just wasn't that kind of man. Now he watched his youngest daughter play in the garden, and he was moved close to tears. Would she ever have a normal life, would she be able to see, he had no doubts that he could find a rich husband for her who would provide for her. But he wanted his little one to be happy. Would he ever be able to do that?

As if she heard his thoughts, Rowena looked to where he stood. She could not recognize the figure by sight and yet she called out to him, fairly certain of his identity. "Papa?"

"it is me, Princess." He said very tenderly. "How are you doing sweetheart?"

"I am well. Did you find her? The one who seeks me?" Rowena was most concerned for her visions and dreams often referenced this dark figure.

"We found her." He hesitated. "Sweetheart, daddy believes you. But there is no proof that this lady did a bad thing, so I could not kill her. yet I told her that if she ever comes near here again, I will." He took her in his arms now.

"I thought a King did not need proof?" She asked worriedly. She didn't necessarily want the lady dead, but she wanted her far away at least.

Her father was silent for a little while. "You are right, little one. A King does not need proof, your brother and I can execute any body we want. I could execute the gardener because I do not like his face. Or I could execute your maid because she shouted at you yesterday, would you like that my Dear?" he thought his daughter was smart enough to understand what he meant.

Rowena sighed. "No." She hugged him tight. "Does that mean you can't ever want to?"

"No. I wanted to kill her, just to keep you safe. But I couldn't, may the gods forgive me." He whispered. He wished his son was back, to take this responsibility of his shoulders.

"Papa, my birthday comes. May I still leave with the Archdruid when it is time?" This concerned her greatly.

This was hard, he knew Isa and he had promised, and he was not a man to go back on his word. "I promised, didn't I." Iorwerth sighed. "But I hope you will reconsider. It is easier to guard you here in the castle. and your mother, somehow her abduction changed her. She is vulnerable right now. She has lost so many children too early fosterage, you are her youngest." The old general didn't even realize he was talking to her as if she was an adult. "She always hoped we could keep you a little longer. And your brother, you seem to have a good influence on him." He was worried about his eldest son. Rowena had been too small when Hawk's wife died, the boy had then lost the will to fight. Iorwerth was seeing the same signs now, and that scared him to death.

Rowena frowned. "Do you think the Archdruid would consider training me here? Or perhaps he could send another druid? I know he can help me understand the things I see sometimes?" She knew why Hawk was better around her. She was a reminder of his promise. One he had almost chosen not to keep. She had felt in her heart that she had come very close to losing her brother.

"We can ask him. I think he'll come up with a solution. Don't worry about that. You can learn here." He was so glad that she was considering staying.

She buried her face against his chest. She knew things that were coming but to tell him would only upset him and she wasn't sure that him knowing would stop anything. Her face was creased with a worry that most children would never know. "Can I have a birthday party. A really big one with dancing and music?" She asked quietly.

"The biggest. You can have everything you want, child." He held her close. "You are so precious to me." He whispered.

Rowena's face flushed with delight. "I can invite all the children?" She wanted so much to be with those of her own age. She put her hands to his face and covered them with little kisses.

Iorwerth knew that the captain of the guard was going to kill him for this, but he wanted to see his little girl happy. "There is only one but, Little Princess. We are going to talk to the captain of the guard, and the head of your brothers bodyguard, and you are going to listen to the advice they give you, is that understood?"

Rowena's face fell a little. "But he is so... stuffy." She complained. "He ruins all my fun. He doesn't like me because I could sneak away when he was supposed to be watching me. He will insist that someone be right there and then no other children will want to be near me?" Her complaint was partially valid for her gaurds were never more then a few feet from her. Even now they were close by though Iowerth was with her.

"It's his job, honey." He turned more serious now. "And Rowena, you know there is danger, so you shouldn't make his job more difficult. If you promise that you will behave, maybe he will make an exception for the party."

"I have behaved." She said, then shifted uncomfortably. It was mostly true except for her one encounter with that noisy knight.

Iorwerth seemed to be thinking, but his eyes were twinkling. "I don't understand this, Princess. How can you have behaved, when the captain is angry because you escaped him?" He asked.

Rowena bit her lip. "I cannot help it if he cannot keep track of one child who cannot even see beyond her own hands. Perhaps you should replace him?" She said thoughtfullly. If he was replaced, then he wouldn't be around to be angry with her.

"that is not up to me. You know they all belong to your brother, so you are going to have to talk to him when he gets back. In the meantime, do I hear a promise?" Her father asked.

Rowena stuck her lower lip out to show her displeasure at making such a promise. "Yes, I promise." She said slowly. Then her face cleared. "Take me riding?"

"I guess you have earned that, little lady." He picked her up from the ground, "but only a pony."

Rowena squealed with delight as her father swung her around and headed for the stables. She loved riding with him. "We could go together again on your horse?" She suggested. She had loved riding fast in the security of his arms.

"We can certainly do that." At the stables he swung her on top of his favourite stallion, and then climbed behind. "Hold on tight, Princess, we are going to fly!"

Rowena loved this most of all. Riding with her father's arms around her. It felt safe and she loved the wind in her hair. She giggled with delight as the stallion's hooves ate up ground.