Politics - Chapter Three

The tables were ladened with food and large vats of wine stood waiting. A hoast of smiling servants milled about to serve the nobles that would be present.Down in the city, food and wine were also being distributed to the people. The city bells rang with a joyful sound. As the King entered the area set aside for celebration, the hoast of servants bowed as if on a single string and waited on one knee for their King to give permission for the celebrations to begin.

Hawk looked around. The ceremony had left him exhausted, he had not expected that. Yet he had to be here, and he was beginning to enjoy himself again. It was good to see his friends and family laughing and happy, it had been a long while since he had seen that. He was glad that things were finally getting back to normal.

Jovis Templeton, as usual abysmally late, came to a screeching halt in the doorway as he noted the King was about to speak. The tall, darkhaired knight was a tourney favorite, as notorious for his skill with horse, lance and blade as he was for having absolutely no sense of direction. He bowed

Hawk rose up from his chair and cleared his throat. "let the festival begin." He said in a loud clear voice. "Everybody have fun!"

Quarra bowed to the King, as it was difficult to curtsey in full armor. She stayed bowed until he gave permission to stand up.

"Lady Quarra, welcome." Hawk said. "Please be seated, and have fun." the king finished with a smile.

*How exciting...the King...oh mother if you could be here!* Renny thought, sighing. She was seated between two people she had vague remberence of, and so far was bored to tears.

When the noble born rose to each greet the King, Renny hesitated. *What if HE Knows I'm not noble...oh wait, he's a figurehead...* Renny dismissed the thought without further bother.

One by one the people went, one by one they sat back down. Then it was Renny's turn. The servant told the King who she was. "Sire," Renny murmured, curtsying low. "My parents send their regards sire." she added on impulse.

"Thank you." Hawk said. "My lady." He added with a little smile, especially for her. "I am glad you could be here, all my subjects are important to me."

Pwyll had to admit it. Ithel was right about the wine--it did grow on you. He had been sitting patiently through the parade of various nobles, dignitaries and other courtly hangers-on for well over two hours. It was unfortunately fairly dry stuff, mostly consisting of best wishes and the occasional gift of some useless ornamental sword or piece of armor. Luckily he'd had the company of a charming young woman who seemed to enjoy flirting more than attending to the activity in front of the dais. He had just made arrangements to carry on his conversation with her at a more secluded spot in the castle when a clerk discretely informed him that his turn to address the king was approaching.

Excusing himself temporarily from the young woman, Pwyll joined the queue to address the newly crowned monarch. When his turn arrived he strode confidently before the king and bowed gracefully.

"Hail Gwalchmai ap Iorwerth, King of Abertawe, Lion of Cylidd, Griffin of Evlander, Dragon of Gwynriod, and Warden of the Eastern Marches! My father, Llywarch ab Ednyfed, Chieftain of Caer Cochbreoedd, sends his congratulations on your coronation. May the crown lie lightly on your head." Pwyll paused while King Hawk nodded in thanks. "Your highness, my father has heard that the King has dogs for hunting, but not for protection, and so he offers a gift of hounds in honor of your accession to the throne."

With that, he nodded to a servant at the entrance of the great hall who opened the doors to admit six unarmed but fearsome looking outlanders. The din of the crowd in the hall subsided as the outlanders came in and knelt before the king.

"Your Highness," Pwyll said, indicating the kneeling warriors, "may I present the hounds of King Gwalchmai."

A surprised King Hawk raised an eyebrow in question. Pwyll responded, "Your Majesty, these six men have been sworn to protect your life at all costs and to serve you as their chieftain. They have been chosen from among all the warriors under my father's care for their bravery and skill. They are yours to command as you would. My father humbly begs that you accept his gift of these hounds for your personal protection." With that Pwyll bowed deeply and awaited the King's response.

Hawk had been thoroughly bored up till now. He had smiled politely, so that nobody would feel slighted. But he did hope that this procession would come to an end soon. He had looked up sharply when he saw the outlander. He had heard about this man, but had not met him privately himself yet. At least he looked like he would bring some entertainment into the proceedings.

But he could not have anticipated this gift. He looked at the six warriors in awe. Hawk did not feel like he needed bodyguards, he was a warrior himself, but he could not refuse this gift. The king cleared his throat. "My lord, I am greatly honored by this magnificent gift. Please bring my humble thanks to your father. And I am sure that I can put these men to good use." How exactly he didn't know yet. Maybe he should talk to Deirdre about that.

Pwyll bowed again. "My father is greatly pleased that you accept this small gift, your majesty." He rose and seeing a passing cupbearer took a large cup of wine from her platter. Lifting the cup he said aloud to the crowd in the hall,

"To the King! Long live King Gwalchmai!" The crowds rose from their seats en masse, raised their cups and repeated the toast.

King Hawk smiled and whispered an order to a page, who in turn passed the message to one of the Hounds. They rose and assumed flanking stations along the wall behind the King and the royal family.

Pwyll bowed a final time, and yielded his place to the next dignitary in line. 'Score one for our side,' he thought as he returned to his seat.

*** The Arch-Druid's room, in King Hawk's Castle ***

No matter how many times he reread the report, the result was the same. They were missing. He had sent three men, undercover, to investigate the disappearances of families on the outlying farms and they were to report back every three days.

Eruic did not attend the festivities after the king's coronation for he had received the message just as he arrived back from the sacred grove. He was sitting at the desk in his room, reading the message sent from his main druid abode. According to this message these men failed to deliver their report and the worst was feared. After reading it he gave it to Dwrn.

"What do you make of it, Dwrn? Do you think I should be alarmed?"

"Well, it is possible that circumstances prevented them from making the report."

"Yes, but only if their lives were in danger or if they were discovered and captured." Eruic replied.

"That is true."

Eruic stood, "We must prepare to return home, first thing tomorrow! I shall personally inform the king."

"I shall begin making preparations immediately, Arch-Druid."

Eruic nodded and then left to find the king.

Gerret was standing watch at the front gate of the city when he saw a giant approach. Never having seen the likes of a man that size, he lowered his spear into a defensive stance out of fear. Bryth, the other guard, saw his companions expression and followed his eyes until he caught size of the giant as well. “Shit! Is that an ogre? Heavens protect us!” Their eyes saw a man who probably stood near 6’5” weighing at least 280 lbs riding a massive Clydesdale Horse. This man had a hooded falcon on a perch attached to the back of his saddle.

Niall lowered his head. Another city yet the same response. One day he would come up to somebody who reacts like this and say he is an ogre and wishes to eat their children. Niall chuckled from the thought and then spoke up, “slow down, whisper, I want to talk to the guards.” His voice was deep and slow yet peaceful. “Hullo guards, where can a man find good sleeping place? I am tired from my journey and want to get a room.”

Gerret looked at Bryth who answered the man, “Pig’s Pen is down the main road and to the left a little ways.” Gerret smiled at Bryth’s response.

Niall was not the brightest but he had heard similar responses before. He had learned how to take care of men like these. With a flip of a penny, Niall spoke again, “That was funny, but I would hate to tell the owner of the best inn that he did not get my coin because the guards were funnin me.” Niall wasn’t concerned with money. He actually had a fair amount of coin from breeding and training dogs as well as manual labor work. He only spent money on essentials. He saved the rest. He was afraid to buy more than he needed because he wasn’t smart enough to know if he was getting cheated half the time.

Bryth caught the coin. He knew that all money was to be directed towards The Swan. Pwyll wouldn’t be pleased if ‘payments’ to the guards weren’t being spent wisely. Bryth cleared his throat, “I’m sorry for the insult, The Swan is the best establishment. Its located …..”

Niall listened to the guards and nodded. “Come Koda, come Kain, we leave now.”

The guards thought he was talking to himself, but from behind the massive horse came two huge dogs looking to be about 30 inches in height and weighing near 140 lbs. The biggest of a litter of rottweilers he trained. Niall always had an eye for animals. He had a knack for picking out the best of any breed and pointing out the abilities each individual would have just by examining them when they are young. He became a natural trainer of horses, dogs, and falcons.

Gerret leaned over to Bryth, “There ain’t nothing small about that man, is there? You see the weapons at his side. I’ll bet he can hold that axe one handed. I doubt I could hold it with two.” The guard was referring to Niall’s axe which had an over sized head.

Bryth responded, “Look at how big the other axe is attached to his saddle.” Niall’s great axe was two headed on a thick shaft that the average man would call a polearm.

Niall chuckled with his deep base voice. He liked it when people admired his weapons. With those in his hands, people didn’t pick on him so much ….. they feared him. In reality he wasn’t an expert with them, but in a fight, he held his own and, with his strength behind them, it only took one hit.

Niall followed the directions to The Swan. The whole way there, people stopped in mock disbelief at the giant of a man riding through town. He even overheard one mother say to her son that she had told him giants really did exist followed by a few other choice words. The boy replied, with a tear filled voice, that he would listen to her from now on as long as she didn’t feed him to the monster.

Niall didn’t figure he’d be in the capital very long if remarks like these kept up. One day, he feared his anger will take over and he’ll accidentally kill someone. Not being the brightest, he sometimes had problems controlling his anger. He just hoped the man he killed would be his father. He would sacrifice his life for that chance.

Niall got off of Whisper and tied him to the post out front of the inn. With his dogs at his side, Niall walked through the front door.

Iorwerth was pacing, he was so angry. He felt sure that Sanglet must be lying, his daughter would never do that to him, never. She knew that the scandal would kill him, and that it would bring her brother into trouble, and hawk did not need that right now. His hold on power was still very fragile, and he did not need a scandal shortly after his coronation.

Isa entered the room and only one look at her husband told her that much was amiss. "My love, what is amiss?" She queried gently. She was feeling better. The matter of Bronwen had started down a road of settlement. Rowena seemed to be blossoming under the care of the Druid and Brendan was back on his feet. It felt as if her family was finally righting itself.

"Nothing that should trouble you," he smiled. He still liked to protect his wife. Her recent bout of illness had frightened him. She had always been so strong, and the thought of losing her scared him very badly. "I will take care of everything."

"Iorwerth, I am not some shy flower in need of shelter. You only pace so if something is amiss with the children?" She pushed gently. "Come, what use is a wife if you cannot even share your concerns?"

"You are of great use to me, my dear. That is why I need you so much, and got to be careful what I have. You still should rest a lot, and try not to worry. I will deal with this situation. I will make her see reason." He did not realize that his face had turned very grim now.

"Ahh it is Bronwen that has you in this tither. Milord, your daughter confides in me, perhaps we should compare information." Isa laid a hand upon his to still his motion.

He ground his teeth, but he could not keep silent any longer. "Sanglet came to see me today. He says she is planning to elope with that..." He was to angry to go on. "She wouldn't, she would not do that to me, or her brother." He looked at his wife with a pleading look.

Isa forced a smile away. Her husband loved his children so much that this would be hard for him. But she loved him all the more for it. "Hawk ordered her too, my heart." She said gently. "He can no longer give her a public blessing and so will look the other way till they escape. He loves his sister very much and would see her happy."

Iorwerth looked at her like he did not understand what she was saying. "He what? She did? Have you two gone completely insane? If this gets out, Hawk will be in great trouble." He started to pace again. "That boy is too nice for his own good. But he is the King now, he can't pull a stunt like that!"

"Husband, she loves this boy. Would you see your daughter consigned to Sanglet? Who would have her now with the rumors flying about and we KNOW they are not rumors? The boy ruined her and he should marry her." Isa said more firmly. Do you have a better suggestion? I am sure Hawk would listen to one?" Iorwerth opened his mouth, and then closed it again. His wife was the only person who could talk to him like that without getting him angry.

"I do not like Sanglet, and you know it. You know I want the best for her. But can that boy give it to her? He is a nobody, and you know how she likes wealth" He paced. "At least I want to talk to the boy before all this happens.

"If she really loves this boy.. Do you think either you or Hawk would deny them means to live?" Isa asked gently. She knew her husband and her son better then that.

He grumbled something. His wife Knew him very well, but he really did not want to admit to that. "We will see, after I talked to the boy." She would not talk him out of that.

"Then you will have to catch up. I have sent him with the party of refugees to the estate we discussed. I thought it best to have him off the castle grounds for a bit." She said with a smile.

He grumbled again. "You know bloody well that I cannot leave here. Hawk needs me. So when are they coming back. If he wants to elope with my daughter, he has to." He challenged her.

"It is supposed to be a secret, my love, so I do not know how they will manage. That is not my concern. I thought that if they were serious, they would solve this problem." She smiled, moving to him. Her hand touched her cheek. "Your dedication to your daughter is admirable, milord."

"It sure is. I do not know the boy that well, I think it is only fair that I speak to him before he runs away with my daughter. And I am sure that a lady like you will have no problem finding out that secret." For the first time his eyes started to twinkle again.

Isa laughed. "I will see what I can manage. I know they planned to wait until Hawk was truly seen King."

Iorwerth nodded, he knew that he would not get more from his wife at this moment. "Thank you, my lady." He smiled at her. "I think now I want to retire with you for the day."

Isa smiled and held out her hand for him to lead her where he willed. She loved this man. He was her rock when she felt the earth shift beneath her.

"What do you mean I can't leave without an escort? What do you think I will do?" Renny asked patiently of the blockheaded gate guard.

"Begging your pardon Lady Renalla, but its not safe to go about alone." the guard said nervously. He shifted from foot to foot, unsure if what he said was right or not.

"I do not care. I am not a gently bred young lady. I can take care of myself." Renny said through clenched teeth.

"Lady I--" the guard broke off, standing straighter.

Seth stood seeing a stiff as a board guard and Lady Renalla flustered. He walked over to them and turned to Renalla first and asked,"Milady, what seems to be the problem?"

Quick as light Renny changed her attitude. "There is Squire Seth." she agreed with a curt nod towards the sweating guard. "He will not allow me passage out of the these gates to see the village yonder. I have explained I am more then capable of taking care of myself, but he insists on protocol." she explained.

"Protocol is important Lady Renalla, especially for the more beautiful members of the court. Guard, I will be her escort since protocol does require one. Keep up the good job and please find guards for wome nwho insist on going out and about." Seth turned to Lady Renalla,"I will be the escort if this is acceptable?" He asked with a smile.

"Of course it is acceptable Seth, you do not have to ask," Renny said with a smile of her own. **Damn...this does not help my plans at all.** Renny thought, narrowing her eyes in irritation. "I'm honored." Renny murmured as she accepted his arm. Once outside th gates, Renny turned to him and said, "I didn't know protocol was so important here. I confess, back home I was allowed free rein to leave and come as I please. I miss that here."

"I apologize you do not have such free reign here. Is there anyway I cna help?" He asked really wanting to help her and affected slightly by her beauty.

Renny blushed under Seth's careful attention to herself. "There is one way...but I do not wish to have you in trouble. I would feel guilty," Renny told him, careful to sound hopeful and frightened for him at once. "I'm sure there is a way I can get out without the Guards noticing occasionally." she added.

"There are a few ways, but I am afraid they are secrets. I am sorry milady, but I do not belivee I can reveal those to you. I would like ot help, but I can't." he said wishing he could and it obvious that he wanted to.

*Damn...damn...damn...* Renny thought cursing silently. "Oh but you must! He will be SO angry if I don't see him!" Renny cried out finally, covering her face as she was sobbing. ^Take the bait...make this work...^ Renny chanted all the while.

Seth felt bad knowing that it was veyr important to her and said,"Please Renny, I really would if I could."

"Mika was so insistant...'Don't go Renny, stay with me' he told me, if I had only listened...Dear Mika I miss you," Renny sobbed, ignoring Seth.

Seth had a soft heart and just couldn't allow her to cry like that. He smiled encouragingly and said,"I cannot allow the weeping of a lovely woman on my conscience. If I show you one passage will that do?"

"I-I suppose so..." Renny whispered, looking up at Seth. "It won't get you in TOO much trouble will it?" she asked, knowing noble women always worried about trouble. "It will make Mika so happy to see me again..."

"I am not one ot stand in the way of love and I cannot bare that sorrow on your face,"They were walking i nthe general direction of it. He smiled and said,"I'll be fien as long as you're never caught. if you're caught then I am willing to take the consequences."

"That is so sweet..." Renny told him, smiling as he lead her to the passage. "I wouldn't really call what Sp- er Mika and I have love though..." she said.

Seth noticed that and he pointed out the passage clearly and said,"It's just throgu there and it's completely ungaurded. There are some not far off, but I am sure you can avoid them."

"Avoidence is my specialty my mother tells me," Renny tells Seth with a small smile. ^To keep him quiet...really don't need him saying nothing when the time comes...^ "So, you'll be a married man soon. Looking forward to it?" she asked, twirling a little, more to get a better look at the area then anything else.

Seth smiled and said,"Yes, but I'm alittle scaredin some ways. I guess the whole cold feet thing." He smiled and surveyed her body again.

^Typical...^ Renny thought. "No more all nighters, no more women dropping at your feet...just one women for the rest of your life. How...droll for a man." Renny commented, noticing his attention. "Women have it easier. We marry, its what we live for right? Child bearing and catering to our man's will..."

Seth grinned and said,"not all women and not all men live that kind of life. Women have hardly catered to my will, but I've been able to enjoy myself. That'll be over soon,"He said not sounding sad, but distant in his thoughts. he refocused and found himself taking in her body.

"Yes enjoying yourself is the most important thing in life..." Renny murmured, walking back to him. "Mother says to always enjoy myself...no matter what." ^Now are you a typical male, or one of those noble do-gooders? Tis the question...^ Renny though, smiling coyly at Seth.

Seth found himself aroused by both his past thpought and the beautiful woman infront of him. he smiled and said,"Well, I am sure you have no troubles in doing what you wish, you are beautiful."

"I am aren't I?" Renny murmured, recalling what Sparrow said to her nights before she had come to the castle. "In my world, my wish is a command to make hundreds beg to fulfill it." Renny whispered, leaning in.

Seth went on bare instinct and kissed her deeply and he gripped her butt as he did so. He had no thoughts other than pure lust and a wanting of release.

Renny kissed Seth back, moving closer to him. ^Tease him a little then move away...keeping him coming.^ she thought, running her hands through his hair.

He kissed her deeply as his hands squeezed on her butt. He was drunk with lust and was only aware of the now.

^3...2..1!^ "no!" Renny gasped, pushing to get away from Seth. "Seth we can't DO this!" she told him, her eyes wide, her cheeks flushed and her breath raggeded. "I can't DO this!"

Seth moved to her again and said,"Yes you can." he gently laid a kiss on her lips again. He placed his hands behind her back softly and began to massage through her clothing.

"Se-eth! What if your intended finds out? What happens if whoever my husband turns out to be finds out?" Renny demanded, evading his mouth and ignoring his caresses.

Seth was blinded and said,"They won't though. We both have the need and want. You know it jsu tas well as I do." He waited for her reaction before he moved in again.

"I know, but what will I tell my husband when he finds out I have more experience then a Lady of my rank should? 'Oh I'm sorry dear, I gave in and slept with an engaged man!' That will not work." Renny argued, worried she'll miss the appointed time she was supposed to meet Sparrow and Bear.

Seth moved close and said,"You will simply not tell him. You know what must be done and you must do it." He smiled to her and said,"I promise it won't reach others ears."

^Never kiss and tell...^ Renny thought absently. "Seth, do you respect me at all?" she finally tried desperately.

Seth nodded and said,"You and I both know that iu respect you." His yees were like fire as they staired into hers, almost sending the wanting and needing his body had for release right now.

"Ohhh..." Renny moaned, years of giving in to her bodies needs over-riding what was common sense. "Seth..." she whispered.

"Renny,"He said as he approached her again and claimed her lips insatntly sliping his tongue into her mouth and drifting the mtowards an old stable, that was always well kept though and no animals had been kept there for years. He knew of a spot that would be perfect. He paused onyl to close and lock the door, but then reclaiming her lips as his hands massaged her back.

Renny finally gave up, one time wouldn't hurt either of them. Not like she ever meant to get married to anyone but Sparrow anyhow. ^Sparrow...^ her mind whispered. ^"I'll kill whoever touches you Renny, I promise you."^ "No Seth! You're in danger! Get away before HE finds out!" Renny burst out, scrambling away from Seth before he could get hold of her again. "You don't want to mess with him!"

Seth smiled and said,"He won't know Renny, please trust me." He moved to her and blocked her exit half-way and said,"Now Renny, will you please trust me on this?"

"He will know Seth. Trust me on this. He has ways...you wouldn't understand...please just trust me, I don't want anything to happen to you." Renny told him, sincerely worried. "I have to go--now! Please move aside!" Renny begged, agitated.

Seth shook his head and said,"He will not know Renny. It will seem as if it never happened. You know this, so why are you doing this?" Seth was mad she had commited to an act and just backed out at the last minute, but he was blinded by his lust mostly. he had no intention of forcing himself onto her, but he wanted answers.

Renny back away, slowly shaking her head. "Seth you barely know me, how could you know him?" she asked him, looking at him a bit sadly. "I know him Seth, he's a very jealous man who will do whatever it takes to keep me from other men."

Reaching the door Renny looked at Seth. "I don't want you hurt Seth."

Seth moved out of the way and said,"Thank you for your concern." His head was beginning to clear and he said,"I'm sorry."

Renny smiled and touched his cheek gently. "Its not your fault." she whispered.

Walking out of the barn, Renny said over her shoulder, "I will protect you Seth , I'll make sure you are not harmed." before running off towards the passage.

Seth nodded and decided to go double his discipline. She had made an advance and he had crippled. he would have to make sure that Only brownen would turn his head in that way. He would double his efforts in this.

It took a little bit longer than the priest thought it would to round the kids up and place them in the carts, but it went fairly smooth. Gwilym was just happy to be done planning the trip and finally be on the road. The first day of travel he had heard ‘are we there yet’ so many times he couldn’t get it out of his head. He definitely had found some respect for Father Niddian and Avalynn because of the patience the showed with the children. The stops made to let the children stretch as well as preparing and serving all the food made the day seem long. Now everything was complete. The children were well fed and now resting for the night. Gwilym stayed along the edge of the camp to keep watch for just a moment. A rotation had been set up between Seth and the rest of the guards. He really stood along the edge to collect his thoughts in peace.

It had definitely been an exciting first week for Gwilym. He wondered if this truly was a place he could settle down in and call home…. home …. His mind drifted to his eighteenth birthday again. Newly knighted and newly married ….. Glenda ….. her beautiful strawberry blonde hair. He had only spent one night with her when he was sent to the king to get aid. He returned with troops but it was too late. He tried to stop reminiscing but his mind wouldn’t let him. Glenda …. her hands bound, her clothes ripped away, blood mixed in her strawberry blonde hair. His parents …. mother found in a similar position ….. father hanging from the ceiling gutted with his eyes burnt out. Gwilym wanted to scream. "Make it stop" he kept repeating quietly to himself. Then the visions were gone. He opened his eyes and realized he was on his knees with his head in his hands. His cheeks were wet with tears. He looked around to gather himself. He could see everyone around the fire now with the children asleep. He found Michael standing guard.

Gwilym stood up and composed himself, wiped of his face, and headed for the fire. When he arrived, Gwilym found a seat next to Reys and sat down listening to the current conversations around the fire.

"….so I held my dirk like this," Reys was saying to the group, his hands positioned in the air as he acted out his own hushed words, "and when the fool turned, I lashed out--" The outlander made a quick swipe to the left and then another to the right with his invisible weapon. "--just like this, aand two seconds later, his trousers fell about his ankles," grinned Reys. "He stumbled out of there with his cheeks showin' and fell down on his family jewels more than once!"

"Reys, you're awful!" Avalynn laughed, despite herself.

"Not as awful as some, Lady Ava," the man retorted with a chuckle. "I could've told the story about Grathorn's drunken adventure with a sow."

Avalynn's eyebrows shot upward, "Grathorn's what? Oh, no, Reys... not tonight. I haven't a need for farm-animal nightmares," she said playfully before turning her attentions to Gwilym. "Would you be so kind as to pass that water skin, Sir?"

Gwilym smiled at Avalynn as he handed her the water, "Here you go, My Lady Avalynn." The words were a little playful, as she had just called him sir. After all, she had asked to let go of any formalities. "How long have you and Reys known each other?" Gwilym asked looking between Ava and Reys.

Avalynn hesitated a moment. She had known Reys for some time, but in actuality, she had spent very few days with him. In her lack of speech, however, he was quicker to respond. "Ah, Gwilym, Ava and I have been friends for several years, but she has always avoided my courtships, so I fear that we will be only friends for many years to come," said Reys through a grin. And then, with all the drama of a traveling act, he placed his arm woefully across his forehead and made the most despairing expression possible. And then he was hit in the gut by a furiously blushing Avalynn.

"Gwilym, do excuse Reys... he's only teasing," she sputtered hastily. Then, as if to hide her burning cheeks, she took a long swig from the water skin.

Reys chuckled, though a bit weakly as he held his stomach. "Ach. She has a fist of stone." The outlander pair exchanged a few indecipherable glances, and their conversation was over.

Gwilym turned to Seth, "Being new and caring not for some of the formalities in life, what is the truth to the rumors about you and the princess as well as the involvement of the earl?" gwilym hoped he had not overstepped any boundaries. He was just curious to distinguish between the truth and the rumor. Gwilym enjoyed stories of true love though they reminded him of his late wife.

Seth smiled and said, "The princess and I love each other very much and I do not know all of the rumors so I cannot say which are true and which are false. Just know we are in love and that is all that matters to us." Seth smiled and hoped that would be enough for him.

"Tis enough if you wish," Gwilym smiled to Seth for he couldn’t tell if Seth had taken a little offense to the question. He could tell, though, this was all Seth wished to say on the topic, so Gwilym let it at that. He was happy for Seth. Gwilym thought love a good, wholesome thing. In the end, he hoped all would work out for the young guard.

Annest wandered near the fire from the darkness, clutching a blanket. The flickering orange hue from the blaze shone brightly off the moisture that smeared her cheeks, and she was staring at the fire as if transfixed. The only sounds she made were gentle sniffling noises, the remnants of crying that had not succeeded in sending her to sleep. She looked briefly at Avalynn and Quarra, and for a moment could not decide which one she would approach. Having spent more of the day with the outlander however, she walked over to Ava. Without a word, she collapsed softly into her lap, curling up into a ball and silently gazing at the flames.

If Avalynn had been surprised by Annest's actions, there was no telling. She simply drew a small, knitted blanket over the child and gently smoothed her hair... until at last Annest found peaceful slumber beside the fire.

*-*-*-*-*-*-*

All seemed quiet as the traveled down the road. Gwilym rode behind the carts watching the back for a while. Quarra led up front. Michael was coming back to talk to Gwilym when an arrow flew with deadly accuracy lodging itself in Michael’s neck. Gwilym reared back his horse turning in the direction of the arrow. At the same time, Jerad saw the arrow as well and yelled "Ambush!"

Immediately, arrows were let lose. One hit Reys in the leg and a second hit Justin in the shoulder. The outlander spared no time in retaliating, however. With one sharp motion, Reys gripped the arrow embedded into his thigh and snapped off the end. Swiftly and with his dirk drawn, he moved through the sudden chaos, toward the wagon that contained Avalynn. Through children's terrified screams, he shouted, "Keep them down!"

But Ava had already begun to instruct the children and force them against the bottom of the wagons. Without words, she was pressing them down, her own hand having drawn a dagger for protection. Her countenance held obvious worry, but stern lines of focus remained; her sienna gaze darted over the foliage, and she spotted a line of men gathering to attack. "Reys! There!" She yelled, the tip of her dagger pointing toward the foe. When she saw that her words had been received, she quickly ducked onto the floor of the cart, praying that she would not have to use the weapon she held so tightly.

Following the volley of arrows, twelve men rushed the group. A man stood some feet back from the charge and yelled, "Gwilym has led them to us. Kill them all!" Gwilym’s heart sank as he heard the words but he had no time to react. A large rock struck him in the back of the head. Gwilym fell from his horse, face first in the ground, and was knocked unconscious blood covering his head and the surrounding area.

Dame Quarra slashed at the first attacker, and got him to back off slightly. Then, the second one rushed in and evaded the swinging claymore and grabbed her by the throat. "What say we have a little fun with this one?" he said roughly. The other man came up and put his hand where it did not belong.

Quarra had had it with the coy advances by the boys of her town before. So when this ruffian touched her in a very intimate place, she snapped. She quickly, and roughly punched the man holding her and kicked the other in between his wide legs with a mailed boot. He went down hard. Now free, she whirled out her long sword and sliced the offensive man across the throat. The one she had kicked was just getting to his feet, when she brought the sword down on his head. Two down, many more to go. She bent to pick up her claymore, and wiped the blood from her secondary blade, and sheathed the long sword.

Seth instantly pulled out his sword and got in a battle stance. Two men approached him and he knew he couldn’t let them get to the children. He had his training gear in the carriage so he was much more agile than he could have ever thought he would be. Since his body has gotten used to the extra weight he was feeling light. He observed the two men and said, "You're not going to win. You will be defeated." With that Seth took the offensive by making a broad swipe the spread them out and then going after the weaker looking one with some very hard blows. He saw he was getting weary so he decided he had to disable him. He did what seemed to be a blow at the feet, but instead swiped a broad slice across the guy’s chest, either killing or knocking him out as he flew back. Seth then turned to the other one and said, "You won't get away." He ran at him and, through a series of blows and parries, he got the upper hand again. Seth decided not to mess around with this guy so in a dangerous move he banked off a nearby tree and slicedthe guy's shoulder and then landed and sliced his other arm. The sword was dropped and Seth moved behind him and knocked him out. "Count yourself lucky." He looked for anyone else that needed help and would do so. He noticed one of the men had actually given hi ma slice on his shoulder, but he had been to enraged to even notice.

Jerad pulled out his longsword and prepared for the two assailants. The first carried a longsword, the socond carried a two handed axe. As the Axe swung high at Jerad’s head, Jerad ducked and rolled forward. Sword raised and on one knee, Jerad deflected the londsword coming down on him from the second assailant. Jerad immediately went to a foot sweep, which knocked the fellow on his back. Jerad wasted no time getting to his feet to face the axeman again. Each swung a few times missing each other by inches. The axeman then came downward with a thrust which Jerad angled his blade horizontally and upward to block. The first assailant got to his feet and came towards Jerad. Jerad’s blade and the axe were locked in the air. Jerad kicked the axeman in the groin, reversed the grip on his sword, and thrusted backwards into the first assailant’s gut who thought he had an advantage. With Jerad’s blade stuck in the man, he didn’t have time to block the axe. The axeman quickly regrouped and pulled a three sixty leaving his axe head in Jerad’s chest.

Three men came towards the cart, which was handled by Justin and Father Niddian. Justin dropped the reigns at the cry for battle and withdrew his two short swords. Two of the men came at Justin and the third went after the priest. Justin Jumped from the cart over the two men as they came towards him, rolled and came up onto his feet, a smile flashed across his lips. The two men, a little shocked, turned and came towards Justin with a little more caution. Justin didn’t hesitate. He went to the man on the right, feinting with his left blade, which the man went to block, and thrusting upward with his right. The blade smacked the man’s jaw splitting it in half. The man dropped his blade, gripped his face, and fell to the ground.

At the same time, the third man jumped up on the cart, plunging his sword into the chest of the priest. With a strangled gurgle, Niddian clutched at the man's arms that still held the blade, and collapsed off the cart, pulling the attacker to the ground with him. There was a sickening thud and the flailing of arms, not to mention much cursing from the unknown assailant as he tried to untangle himself.

The second attacker on Justin helped pull the dead priest off of his partner and both looked around to take in everything around them. Seeing most of their comrades down, they ran over towards the leader who retreated back into the woods with the axeman who had just killed Jerad. Justin spit on the man, whose jaw he had just broke, then ran both short swords through him.

The scene was a little gruesome and more than a few of the children threw up at the sight of the death around them screams and tears coming from those who had not yet vomited. Gwilym, Jerad, and the priest lay dead. A nasty gash on the back of Gwilym’s head blood all over. Jerad lay in the road with his chest split wide open and his eyes still open from the shock. The father lay in the back of the cart with screaming children all around him. On the side of the road at the tree line, a piece of folded paper lay on the ground where the leader of the ambush had once stood.

Seth, being the closest to the note, walks over, stoops down picking up the note, and turns to the others who are alive. He then begins reading the note out loud. Cort,

Gwilym will be leading these children down the road. Find them. I want them all dead except for Gwilym. I have sent out two other teams of twelve as well. Do not ruin my plans. The king will suffer. Make haste. Report back to me the moment you are done. You know the place. Urianus

Justin, not waiting for a reply, spoke up upon hearing the letter, "When I was a kid, I used to play in these parts. My older brother and I would hang out in a cave up in those foothills, " Justin pointed to a set of hills off in the distance, "nobody ever used them. As we got older, our parents would let us go camping and that is where we went. It is on the backside of the hill, so a fire wouldn't be seen from this direction. I believe it is big enough to hold everybody. We need to gather these children and leave, now, before the other two groups find us."

Quarra nodded, "Let's go then. Leave the riff-raff where they lie."

"Wait," said Avalynn loudly. She was standing in a nearby wagon, several children clutching to her side. Many of them had calmed, receding into a strange and silent state of confusion. "We cannot simply move off course. We need someone to inform the king of what has happened and where we intend to go. Someone should take the note to him."

Seth moved over and handed Reys the letter and looked to him waiting for his reaction.

Reys, who leant against the wagon for support, nodded tersely in agreement. "Aye. Ava is right. I'll go. The guards must stay for protection." Without waiting for a reply, he fetched the closest horse without a rider and deftly mounted it, the end of an arrow clearly lodged in his thigh. Avalynn frowned. He then reached over and grabbed the note from Seth

Reys heard what the young guard said and agreed that the three soldiers could not handle a group of twelve. "Then the moment we hit the cave, I'm taking the note to the king." Reys made it clear that this was a statement and wasn't to be argued. Everyone seemed to agree.

While the adults had been hastily discussing their plans after the attack, Cynwal had been busy but unnoticed. He had shooed away the few distraught children who had gathered around Niddian's body, and taken one of the blankets from the wagon, draping it over his twisted body and pale face. As an afterthought, he had pulled the blanket back and gently removed the cross from around his neck, pausing to close the priest’s eyes. "May the lord accept and bless thee Father," he whispered quietly. "For all you have done, your piety and your patience, our uncounted thanks."

Annest had approached her brother, and watched with an empty expression as he drew the blanket over his head for the last time. "You will not be forgotten." He then snatched up one of the swords of the fallen, and moved away to one side to begin digging roughly in the soil. Annest sat next to the covered body of the priest in the meantime, staring.

Justin saw the actions of the children and got the attention of the party as he walked over. Realizing that there would be no reasoning with the boy from the look on his face, Justin helped dig a quick burial hole. "Son, I’m sorry we don’t have time to make this proper, but we need to get you children to safety. When this is said and done, I’ll come back with you and we can make this right."

Cynwal sighed and looked at the rest of the children, "Agreed, but I will hold you to that promise." Finished with the make shift mound, Cynwal turned to the rest of the group, "Ok, we’re ready to go," referring to the children.

Very soon the group was on its way once more... a few men short, but not without hope. For what could a child do but place their faith with the adults, and look to elders for guidance in times of confusion?

Seth was looking al around expecting another attack as a possablity. He knew it would be comin, but he had no clue when or where. His shoul;der hurt from the last encounter. That slice had been a lucky shot. he would have to be more careful if he wanted to survive. He heard the sound of approaching horses and turned ready to draw his sword. He recognized the two guards though and moved his horse over to them and asked,"What's the trouble?"

The two men looked at each other and then to Seth looking like thye had just ridden hard. The leader of the two held out a request fro mthe King for These two men to replace Seth and for Seth to return and speak with the King as soon as possable. Seth looked to the men and said,"Beware, we have been attacked. We are expecting another. Keep a look out and do your best. Thank you both." Seth told everyone he was requested at thecastle and he then rode of with his horse in a fairly good run. He knew the horse would carry him back very quickly. He was happy that they had sent two men to one for him and that he was to head back. Pehraps the King had heard of their plasn, that could either mean death or measuring up of himself. He still rode the horse just as fast. He knew it was important. He would see home in about a day.

*** Early in the morning, King Hawk's castle ***

Rowena had packed her saddlebags and had her friend, Cedrik carry them down. She had him saddle her pony and had him all ready. The Arch-Druid was leaving and she was prepared. She had Cedrik help her lead the pony out as her vision, while better, was blurry at best.

The two made a picture. A small pony, the little nine year old page and Rowena in bright red riding dress. She approached the druid's party with exuberance. "Greetings Father, I am ready to travel." She said politely.

Eruic turned upon hearing the beautiful young voice. He turned his horse and pulled up along side her.

"And hail to you, young one. Where are you off to so early in the morning?" he said with a smile. He looked around and frowned, "And where is your escort?"

"I am going with you." She announced. "You forgot to tell me you were leaving?" Her young voice held a touch of the royal scold.

It was then that he noticed the saddlebags. "No, young one, the time for you to start on your journey has not yet arrived." Eruic spoke in a soft soothing voice.

"But.. I thought I was going to foster with you?" Her little bottom lip trembled. "I .. I will be good?"

"No, young one, you misunderstand. " a smile crept into Eruic's voice, "You are still to foster with me, but not until after your ninth birthday." He took her little hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"But, milord, that is ONLY a month away. How will I find you if you leave?" She looked up at him worriedly. "If you leave without me.. you won't come back?"

"No, I might not come back myself, but I will definitely send for you." He smiled again, "See it as your first lesson. You must learn to be patient in all situations."

Rowena did not want to learn patience. But she knew that she had to act grown up in this situation or her would think her to young to foster with him. Her eyes sparkled with tears. "If you leave, a Raven will chase you. I saw it in a dream. It was a big black bird .. and." Her voice faltered as she tried to push the tears away. "It is stupid, never mind." She turned her horse and headed back to the stables.

Eruic pulled up next to Rowena again, "Hold on," he replied, "Tell me more of this dream-vision that you had." This sounded all too familiar.

"I .. I saw you leave and there was a Raven. It was bigger and blacker then any I have ever seen. It's eyes were different though. They were blue? And the more you left the city, the more it called other ravens to surround you. And then, they attacked and you.. you.. " Her eyes filled with tears.

"Oh, young one." Eruic said with a soothing voice. He took her off her horse to his horse. He held her to his shoulder as he tried to calm her sadness. "I will be back, I promise you. Shhh... shhh. Calm your sadness. Shhh. We must trust that the gods will protect us."

"It is just a dream, right?" She said quietly, clinging to the Arch-druid. She didn't want him to die. Everyone around her kept leaving or just didn't talk to her anymore. She was very lonely.

"Perhaps, or a warning of some kind. What is destined to happen will happen, young one. We must trust."

"How do you keep trusting when bad things keep happening?" She pulled her face away and looked at him.

"Ah, but then that is a lesson for another time. For now, you must learn patience. See you soon, Ray of Sunshine," Eruic replied as he put her back on her pony again. He turned his horse to rejoin his druids.

Rowena sadly turned her horse back to the stables. It knew the way, so no one else had to guide it. She took her things and with the help of the page returned them to her room. She decided she would go work on her garden. With the help of her maid, she had turned a small room that recieved the late fall sun into a nursery for her small mounds of dirt and seed.

The view from the rooftop perch was stunning. The stars shone with a gemlike intensity through the crisp evening air, and the near full moon brought to mind the powder white flesh of a new cut apple. Pwyll was painfully reminded that he had been cooped up too long within the city. With the coronation celebrations now finished, he resolved to take a few days to himself and perhaps travel down towards Wexford and do a little fishing for sea trout.

He was still thinking about fishing opportunities when a figure emerged into the small courtyard below and crossed to an outhouse located on the far side. Pwyll sighed. 'A brigand's work is never done,' he thought as he silently climbed down from the thatched roof.

Pwyll had the decency to wait for the man to finish--although he found the smell none too pleasant. When the figure emerged from the privy, Pwyll quickly placed his hand across the man's mouth and laid his dirk gently under his chin. "Good even' Feagh. Feeling relieved are we?" Pwyll whispered in his ear.

Feagh began to struggle but as he became aware of the sharp blade against his throat he grew quite still.

"Don't worry Feagh, I'm goin' ta give you a fair chance to explain yerself before I cut you open." Pwyll dragged his victim into the shadows of the courtyard. "I'm going to remove my hand now. If you call out, you're a dead man."

"You know I can have a dozen men out here in a heartbeat," Feagh whispered as the hand was removed.

"And just what would you say to them without a throat?" Pwyll asked quietly, as he drew the blade up just enough to draw a little blood.

Feagh sucked his breath at the movement of the dirk. "Who are you and what do you want?" he managed.

"The name's Pwyll, and I want to know why you tried to have me killed."

"You!" Feagh let out a quiet laugh, "If I wanted to have you killed, you'd already be pushing up flowers little man."

"I doubt it. With idiots like that Ula working for you I'm surprised that you can even run a decent business, let alone kill someone. That's probably why you hired a couple of sassenach's to do the job"

"Ha! You're not worth the coin boy... an' my boys aren't all as daft as Ula," Feagh said between clenched teeth.

Pwyll had to admire his opponent's aplomb. To insult a man holding a knife to your throat took some balls. "Your full of shite Feagh!" Pwyll said without real conviction. He knew that if he'd been in the same situation, there would have been no mistake. "Who else would want me dead then?"

"Yer better to look to the King's court than the King's market lad," Feagh replied as he sensed the uncertainty in Pwyll's voice. "Not all the nobles like the outlanders, and there would more than a few dry eyes at yer passing."

"Any of these nobles have a name?" Pwyll asked as he applied a little more pressure to the knife at Feagh's throat.

"Could be any one of a dozen, an' you probably have a pretty good idea of their names anyway."

Pwyll grunted in the affirmative. He should have expected as much. "Well then. Looks like I may have made a mistake then."

"You bloody well bet you have me--" Feagh never finished the sentence.

With a quick knee to the stomach and an elbow to the back of the head, Pwyll had laid the man flat. He was over the fence a moment later, and running down the narrow streets of the capital making for the Swan. The last he heard from the courtyard was the fading sound of Feagh calling his men.

'Not an auspicious first meeting. I suspect we'll be discussing this issue further,' Pwyll thought as he crossed the King's road and sighted the Swan.

Although he had been very busy with the ceremony, hawk had tried to keep an eye on his guests. And he had seen Amlyn talk to a stranger, and a little later he was gone. he had kept it in his mind to check on Amlyn later.

It was the early hours of the morning before hawk had time to do so. He was too excited to sleep, and he needed a walk. the king found the knight in the gardens, contemplating.

Softly hawk walked towards him. "Can you tell me what is wrong?" He said in a soft voice.

Amlyn turned at the sound and recognised the new King. Recalling amidst the fog of memories that he had not greeted him as King yet, he kneeled in an impromptu gesture. "My liege," he said. "This has been a long time coming."

"Please get up, I do not like the formalities." Hawk smiled. "What has been a long time coming?"

Amlyn rose to his feet. "Your coronation," he answered. "You are now the person everyone in this land will ultimately answer to." He is so young to be doing so, thought Amlyn, as the King took a nearby seat. Following protocol, he sat down next to him, so that he would not be standing taller than Hawk. Age mattered not in the case of nobility.

Hawk sighed. "I know, and it still frightens me. I never got the chance to prepare for this. I had only just returned home, when my uncle died. After the death of my wife I roamed the world for over two years. And I am only just returning to being a human being again. I would have liked a little bit more time for myself, but this is my duty." He stared straight ahead, a little sad.

"It is a duty only the strong of will and spirit can bear, my liege. It is fate that the crown has passed to thee today. Fate cannot be ignored or forgotten, for it affects everyone and determines how we live and how we will die. Acceptance is the only way to deal with it." Amlyn stopped himself as he realised he was almost preaching. But he could not resist a final statement. "I do not envy your responsibilities, for you should be above and beyond any human."

"I know." Hawk said, then he tried to get away from his own thoughts. "But back to you, you looked troubled earlier, when I saw you talking to that man during the feast. What is going on there? Remember, I made you my responsibility."

"He was just... an old acquaintance my liege. Nothing more. I was somewhat surprised to see him, and he brought bad news that I am reluctant to discuss." He didn't mention that Nwython WAS the bad news, but Nia was in the back of his mind, and if Nwython was somehow implicated then he may decide to carry out his heavily veiled threats.

Hawk looked at him. "I am your King, you know that I trust you. I hope you will trust me too, I want you to be able to bring all your problems to me." Now he waited patiently if Amlyn would do that or not.

There could be no arguing with Hawk. Amlyn wondered what was in the man that made him apply so much interest to the conundrums other people faced. "My liege," he began, "I spent most of the war with Dinodig fighting not for king or country, but to get close enough to kill a man I was told was my father. My mother informed me years later, after I had failed in my quest, that everything I had been led to believe was a lie. I was nothing more than the son of a squire. Now, after the night of your coronation, I am no closer to the truth than when I first began my journey." He could barely keep the bitterness from his voice.

Hawk had listened quietly, this man's history touched him. "First, whomever your father was doesn't matter. If he were a slave or a king. It matters what you make of your life, and you are one of my knights. One of my chosen. Now tell me, how can I help you find what will make you happy and content."

"It is what I have made of my life that disturbs me the most, my liege. In particular, the prospect that perhaps I am the monster in this whole story. In any case, if my father really is the man I sought for so long to slay, then I have to face the disappointment of failing to do so all over again. I came so close..." Nwython's revelation of his real task in tutoring Amlyn during the war burned deeply in his mind. If what he said was true, then his father had been just as keen to see him dead as well.

The King thought deeply. "Maybe you should not try to kill your father." The thought was alien to him, Iorwerth had always been everything he could ever wish for in a father, and the bond between them was strong. "It is not natural. Maybe you are meant to make up with him. You are starting a new life here, aren't you? Maybe you should let go."

"If only it were that easy," said Amlyn, exasperated. It was obvious Hawk could not understand how deep the vein of anger had sunk into him. "I am a bastard son. I've never known the man who gave me life, and if what I suspect is true, then that life was never willingly given. It is not bad enough that I was abandoned and left in the care of others. But now I learn that he knew who I was, and how he was prepared to..." He realised that Nwython had finally got to him, with an unlikely weapon: the truth. Discord's earlier rambling's now seemed to make sense. And it was unlikely Nwython would have invested so much time and effort in his development, if not for the directions of his parent.

"I am not saying that will be easy. This will be harder. But sometimes it is harder to do the right thing. To walk away, to stop the killing. Be different. Surprise them. Make your new home here." Hawk said. He realized that this was a transition time, either the good or the evil would come out in Amlyn, and he hoped that it would be the good, that he could keep this man from self destructing. It had only being a year since he had been on this point himself so he knew what he was talking about.

Devastated, Amlyn didn't really hear the words that Hawk spoke. All he could think about was Guaire, his real father, and the million questions that he wanted to ask, but knew that he probably would never be able to. Ashen-faced, he turned to face the King. "My liege, I have heard that a cult of Donn is creating trouble to the east. With your permission, I would like to take some men and investigate." He had no stomach to discuss his situation further, for he still felt sick from the sudden knowledge of his reality.

Hawk was a little sad, he saw that Amlyn would not talk to him any further, that fact saddened him greatly. And he felt lonely, Now that he was king, it would be so hard to make friends. "Of course. Take as many men as you need, and keep me posted. But Amlyn, promise me that you will be careful, do not throw your life away." He gave the other man a piercing look.

Amlyn thought about the King's words for a few moments. "I have no intention of doing so." Despite the lack of conviction in his statement, he continued. "I shall not take such an easy way out of handling my affairs. My King..." he bowed once again, and left Hawk's presence, oblivious to the King's burden because of a heavier weight on his own shoulders.

The next day Hawk woke up, still feeling tired. He had not slept long, and he felt only a little bit rested. His head full of images.

With a yawn he got out of bed, and walked to his private privy. He stopped with a start, when he became aware of the huge outlander standing there, waiting without emotion. It was one of the bodyguards, and not something Hawk liked very much.

"Would you please mind leaving me alone." Because he was still sleepy, it did not come out very friendly.

The outlander simply nodded and then entered the privy. Hawk stood with his mouth agape as banging sounds issued from inside the small cubicle. After a moment or two the outlander emerged, bowed curtly and moved five paces back from the entrance of the privy.

Hawk stared at him. "What the hell were you doing in there? Do you even understand a word of what I'm saying?"

The big outlander simply looked at Hawk with an expressionless face. "I was making sure it was safe fer your Highness. An' aye, I do understand a word of what your saying," he deadpanned.

Hawk was getting a bit irritated. "I am sure that my privy is safe. I have never been attacked there before. So I would appreciate it if you stayed out of my a private rooms at all times."

"Aye, your highness," the outlander replied in a deep monotone. While his stoic face gave no hint as to his thoughts, Hawk suspected that this hound would probably continue to annoy.

Hawk in fact did not believe a word of what the big man was saying; they would not leave him alone. "Alright, which one of you is the leader?" He said crossing his arms, clearly irritated.

The outlander raised one of his bushy eyebrows a hair's breadth. "That'd be Vaughan. He's the tall one at the entrance to your rooms... your Highness."

"All right." Hawk growled. He started walking to the door, very annoyed when the big man followed his every step. This was not turning out like he had hoped.

At the doors to his apartment he found another outlander, this one even bigger. Hawk was surprised at the height of the man. He had become used to thinking of outlanders as a small people, yet this one almost stood at his eye level. "I am told that you are the leader of this gang?" He said irritated. "This will not do, I am going to reassign you to the castle Garrison, you can do good work there, and it will be more rewarding for all of us."

The big outlander raised an eyebrow in a gesture that Hawk was coming to realize was common among this lot. "What happened Blaen?" he said, speaking to the outlander that had accompanied the King.

Blaen replied curtly, "Hon 'n ieuanc chi ydy hefyd 'n ddiofal," in their strange dialect.

"Arddangos rhyw barchu Blaen! And speak the King's Welsh!" Vaughan replied. Turning back to Hawk, he said, "I apologize your Highness. Blaen was merely expressing concern for your personal safety. If you would like him to dispense with the search of your privy, that can be arranged."

Hawk thought he caught something about 'young' and 'respectful' in the outlanders' exchange.

"I do not want him to only stop searching my privy. I want for the lot of you to stay out of my rooms!" He was getting pretty upset now. "I have very little privacy as it is, and I want it in my own rooms."

"But sire, we have been set as dogs for your protection, and as dogs our nature cannot be changed. We are all sworn to protect you to the death. You should let us perform our tasks, we know our duty." Vaughan replied in a firm tone.

The two men were standing nose to nose now, Hawk turning red. "You were given to me, that means that I am now your King, and that means that you should obey me. And THAT means that you stay out of my rooms. Do you understand that," he said very slowly and very angrily.

"Blaen, go." Vaughan's order was crisp and unequivocal.

After the outlander had left, Vaughan looked into Hawk's eye and spoke to him in a measured and calm voice. "Aye, you own us, you are our Chieftain, and now by your words our King. You could order us into the pits of Hel, and by the gods we would go. But if you are to be King, and rule, then you need to be act as a King. Your personal protection must be the first priority for Abertawe, not your privacy." Vaughan paused to draw an even breath. "To send us into your barracks is to turn your back on your kingdom and to insult our people... your people. Is that the act of a newly crowned King?"

First hawk looked even more like he would explode. He was a king, and people still treated him like a child. Talking back to him. He should not have to take that. Then he calmed a little bit, because he knew that he did not want to be a tyrant, and that was probably why people felt they could talk to him like that. So he took a couple of deep breaths, before this whole thing could escalate.

"I appreciate what you are doing for me. I really do. And I would appreciate it more if you protected my son, my brothers and sisters and my parents. I am a grown man, a warrior; I can take care of myself. And I need this privacy, without it I am going to go mad." He did not even realize that he was pleading with his bodyguard.

Vaughan lifted his eyebrow yet again, but this time accompanied it with a broad smile. Here was a reasonable request and one that would not shame the Hounds. However, there was still his chieftain's safety to be considered. "Would you perhaps consent to a guard at the entrance to your rooms, and at least two to ride with you when you ventured outside of the castle walls?"

Hawk was not happy with it, he did not want it at all. But he did see that this was a compromise, and the best he would get with out creating a diplomatic scandal. So he sighed. "So be it." With that he returned to his privy, and at least a little privacy.

---

"The Giant's Come..."
~ Niall - Wanderer
~ Pwyll ap Llywarch - Outlander

Niall pushed open the swinging doors and slowly walked in. Right to each side of Niall came Koda and Kain. Niall paused to look around the room. This was a busy establishment. Many of the tables were occupied and pretty little barmaids danced around the various occupants while dropping off drinks along the way.

Niall only got to breath in the scene for a moment when a man from behind the counter yelled, "Hey, ya big ox, no pets aloud in here!"

Niall didn't know which was more insulting, the 'big ox' comment, or the reference to his friends as 'pets'. The rest of his face immediately got as red as his birthmark and he strode up to the counter.

The barkeep turned flush white at the sight of this enormous man charging towards him. He damn near peed his pants as he backed up against the alcohol rack behind him.

Niall realized he had scared the man and settled down, "I just wish a room for the night and a place to eat a good meal," Niall paused. He figured the only way to smooth things out with people was with money. He never did understand their desire for it. Without hesitation, Niall fished out a shilling, he figured that would do the trick, "for me and my FRIENDS." Niall looked around the room and realized more than a few men had rose with their hands on or near their weapons. Niall cursed at himself mentally, he had just gotten through telling himself that his temper was going to get him killed.

The barkeep, still a little afraid, peered around the bar as if looking for someone...

"Hey Tiny!" A voice sounded behind Niall. "You've scared our poor Swithen half to death."

Niall spun about looking for the source of the voice. At first he saw nothing. But then, looking down, he noticed a small tattoo-faced man glaring up at him. "Perhaps before asking for a room you should apologize to the poor man," the little figure said.

Niall was tempted to laugh. The little man was a good 5 hands shorter than him and probably weighed the same as one his dogs. To be threatened by one so small seemed absurd to the giant. Yet Niall remembered his fellow mercenaries comments about the 'little people.' They were reported to be cunning and vicious in battle--and easily provoked. Glancing about at the unfriendly faces in the room, he weighed his options...

Niall sighed. He had offended someone, "Aye, friend, you're right. At my size I have to be careful how I handle myself or people will take it wrong." As Niall turned towards Swithen, he mumbled, "He did call me a big ox …"

Niall looked up (actually down) at Swithen, "I'm sorry for scaring you, sir, but I don't like being called names, and either do my friends here, Koda and Kain." Niall looked to his dogs and then back at Swithen. "I only want a room so me and my friends can rest, a decent meal, and a place to smoke my pipe. I won't cause any problems. I promise." Niall smiled. For some reason a smile on his face just didn't look right. Kind of how an ogre smiles right before he eats you.

Hearing Niall's words, Swithen thought he sounded a little like a child …. If you take away the deep voice. Swithen reasoned that though the big lad seemed normal, he just might be a beam shy of a sturdy house. He looked to Pwyll to see if he was to give the man a room or not.

Pwyll cleared his throat a little and gave Swithen the bent eye.

Swithen understood the signal. "It's me wot should be sorry sir. I'll have a room prepared and some sup for you an' yer... um, friends... shortly," the old barkeep said with a note of genuine apology in his voice.

"There then. That's settled." Pwyll said with a genial smile. He turned and waved to a small female harpist seated by the fire, and the room filled with a sweet melody. The tension in the tavern dissipated almost immediately. Pwyll's smile widened further as he identified the tune --'The Giant's Come'. He had to hand it to Ithel, his choice of the young harpist as an apprentice was a good one. Turning again to the giant, he said, "Perhaps you'd care ta move your friends from the door? They're scarin' the customers."

Niall turned and with an unusual whistle, summoned the two great beasts to his side. Pwyll couldn't help but be impressed at the giant's handling of the animals.

Niall turned to Pwyll, "Hullo, sir, I am Niall. Who might you be?" Niall stretched out his large hand to shake Pwyll's.

"Pwyll ap Llywarch of Caer Cochbreoedd," Pwyll replied, taking the giant's hand in his.

"You wouldn't by chance know of anyone in search of strong help or animal training? I am excellent with dogs, horses, and falcons." With that said, Niall put his hands together and placed them to his mouth. Blowing a little air through them, Niall made a strange noise. As soon as he was done, Spirit, his falcon, flew in from the gap above the swing doors and came to rest on Niall's shoulders. Niall smiled for he loved to show off his friends. "I would have called for whisper, my horse, but I don't think you would have liked the mess. I also am good with these," he tapped his weapons, an axe with an oversized head and a jagged longsword, with his hands, "and inside a roped ring, I've never been beaten," Niall puffed out his chest with the last statement. In the ring was one of the few times people cheered him instead of picking on him.

Pwyll looked the giant up and down and gave his own beard a little tug. An opportunity like this didn't come along every day. He could definitely find a use for the man's strength and it would be good to have a little extra protection for the Swan. The only thing that concerned him was the man's stomach. It looked as though he could eat an ox a week--and that could get expensive. Pwyll did a few mental calculations.

"Aye. I think I might be able ta help you there. Care ta sit an' have a wee drink," Pwyll indicated one of the larger chairs that looked as if it could support the man's bulk. As Niall moved to the chair Pwyll made a small motion to one of the servers to bring drinks. Turning to Niall, he said, "I could use someone like yourself around here--ta keep the peace, if you get my meaning. I might also have some other work for you if you don't mind a bit of brawling? Before you say anything, I cannae but offer you room an' board for your work around here, but if there's extra ta be done you'll get good silver."

Niall listens to the little man's offer and finds it agreeable, "I done work like that before. I make sure nobody around here gets too rowdy. I will also do little choirs, no problem" Niall accepts the drink from the cute little serving girl and takes a sip. "I am really ok with fighting, too. People show me respect when I'm fighting. You'll make good money on me. I'll show you." Niall takes a look at the drink and smiles with satisfaction, then he gulps it down and wipes his mouth with his forearm. "Don care about extra money for extra work. I'm happy with room and board. I'll do extra work and you'll be happy with me, you'll see."

"Ah. Good. Here's what I propose..." Pwyll listed off a few mundane tasks that would be required of him, and what he could expect in return. He also made allowance for healthy amount of personal time during which the big man could pursue his own interests and even look for other employment. If there was any brawling or other extra work to be done, Pwyll would compensate the giant in good coin. "...and providing you weren't boasting, I sure we could make a little coin together inside the ring." Pwyll concluded with a wink.

Niall flashed his award winning 'I'm gonna hurt somebody' smile, "We'll make coin when I fight. You'll call Niall a good friend. I like that. I'll serve well."

With that Pwyll spat in his hand and extended it to the big man. Niall returned the gesture and smiled again. All merc contracts ended this way and that made Niall comfortable. Niall felt that things might be good for him working with this little man. A good deal had been made by both, and Niall and his friends had a new home.

---

"Alterian's Ire"
~ Alterian
~ NPC's

Alterian opened the missive on his desk. He did not know how it got there but he unrolled it and sat down to read it. His eyes opened wide as he read the words.

Alterian, Your biggest mistake was to trust me. These little brats will suffer before they are all killed. You actually believed I would support this make shift king of yours. I am a stout supporter of Nethbo. This little incident will rally all of Nethbo behind King Dyfadd. Oh, this war will continue. When it is all said and done, our king will control both Nethbo and Abertawe. Foolish man, how must you feel now knowing you have caused the downfall of your beloved king by trusting me. Be ready, an army of Norse was hired the size of which you have never seen. Abertawe will fall!

Gwilym ap Gavin

Alterian threw the letter down. "Damnation!" What was he going to do? He paced back and forth before he realized that something more then betrayal was amiss. "Areteri!" He screamed for his page.

"Yes Master?" The boy said with quick response.

"Fetch me Eli Coulte, Now!" He demanded. The boy nodded and ran for his master never raised his voice.

The guardsman was soon in front of him. "Yes Milord?" He asked with a bow.

"Take a squadron of men and go the estate of Silas Freete. Watch for the wagon of children that departed this keep. I want a report of their condition. If anything is amiss, bring me Sir Gwilym!"

"Yes, milord." The man did not question the look on the lord's face. He just obeyed.

Alterian debated whether to tell the King. He decided to wait until the guardsman returned with a report. If he was right, this was a false missive. If he was wrong, they were all in trouble.

---

"A Father's Interview"
~ Lord Iowerth
~ Seth McCullen

Seth arrived and after making himself presentable proceeded to Iowerth's room. He presented to request from him so the Guards would let him through to the door. He knocked on the door and awaited his fate, whatveer it may be. He was trying to be optomistic in his appearance and thoughts though.

Iorwerth was standing looking out of the window, not facing the door. He was trying not to be angry at this young man, for going behind his back. For deflowering his daughter, for so many things. "Come in." He thundered. Then turned around and faced the young man. "Tell me" he said. "What would you do if bronwen was your daughter?"

Seth looked at hm alittle taken back by the question. He thought and said,"I would ask her what would make her happy and make sure she got it if it was within my grasp to give." Seth awaited his response to that.

Iorwerths brows nitted, and it looked for a moment that he would get angry. Then a slight smile appeared. "You are a bright one, aren't you? But remember that my daughter grew up in luxury, what are you going to give her? I know her, she will not be happy in poverty. if not for you she would be the wife of an earl."

Seth nodded at the earl comment and he said,"I have been a humble person over the years and have saved all I could. I have survived on only the ssentials for the most part. I have a nice house out in the country for us. I have hired some servants who have been making money for me as well. It is a farm, but the house isn't very close to the farm. The house is nice and I can promise only that I will do my best. I dare say it will be a step dwn, but not too much of one. I hope this is not a bad thing?"

Iorwerth laughed. "A hovel in the country, that is not a step down, that is a stairs down. And what if you grow tired of her? How do you know that this love is eternal, how long have you known her altogether." As a father he just did not feel sure about this.

"There is no possable way I could grow bored with her. She is vibrant and full of life. I know love is eternal, because we both moved against all odds to be together. I have known her since before the battle, where I believe I saved your life." Seth recalled from the battle. "And that entitles you to my daughter?" Iorwerth felt himself get angry again. "I want the two of you to take more time. I want her to be absolutely sure of what she wants." He knew he was being stubborn, and going against the wishes of his daughter, his wife and his son. But he was still the head of the family, and his word was law, even for the King, and at that moment that felt exactly fine.

"I did not say that entitles me to your daughter. I believe she is sure, but I suppose there is no choice in the matter if you say no." Seth was inwardly angry at him for abstructing their plans. He ddin't let this show.

"All I say is take a little more time, you are both still children. now go!" He said, suddenly angry at himself. And he knew that his wife would be back to plead that he change his mind about this.

Seth bowed and then left with a "Yes sire". He would have to speak to Bronwen immediately. He would seek her out and speak t her of the new things that had happened.

---

"Resting By A Stream"
~ Niall - Wanderer
~ Anget - NPC

Niall had just finished up a hard day's work at The Swan. He had only been asked to move around some hay so that the stable boys could feed the tenants' horses. Niall ended up cleaning the entire barn. The two stable boys were ecstatic. They took off to play since the giant had finished their choirs. Niall was happy to help them. It took the boys a bit to get used to Niall, but after that, they had fun. They even tried to team up on Niall and wrestle him in the hay. Niall played along and let them win after a he saw that they were getting tired. Niall smiled to himself as he watched the boys take off to go play. Koda and Kain came up beside him. The boys had mentioned a good fishing stream just outside the city. Niall decided to saddle up Whisper and go have a look. He thought that it sounded peaceful.

It took some time getting through the city. It seemed alive with joys and cheers. People crowded the streets going about daily business while others continued to celebrate the coronation of their new king. All the while, people gawked at him as he rode by. Niall wanted to get out of there fast. Koda and Kain were getting antsy with this many people around. They also got overprotective when too many people called out names at Niall.

Once outside the city, Niall dismounted from Whisper and let her walk. He also removed the hood from Spirit's head and let him take to the sky. Spirit was a magnificent falcon and Niall loved to stare at him when he first took off. They walked in the direction the boys had told him for about a half an hour when they arrived at the stream. It had a few trees around the edge for shade and looked very peaceful. Koda and Kain took off the second Niall let them and the raced towards the water. Koda arrived first with Kain right on her heels and they both dove in splashing and playing. Niall laughed in his deep voice for he loved to watch the two play. Niall found a good resting spot in the shade. He removed the saddle from Whisper and set it down using it as a backrest as he sat next to it. He pulled out a couple of apples from the saddlebag along with a knife and began cutting into the fruit. He and whisper nibbled on the apple chunks as the dogs continued to frolic in the water.

Time passed and the dogs lay at Niall's side, all of them asleep. Whisper was out in the open eating grass while Spirit was atop the tree eating a newly caught field mouse. Everyone looked up at the sounds of sobbing rapidly approaching. Niall could see a teenage boy coming their way.

Anget , a fairly large teenage boy of thirteen years, was running towards his favorite hangout crying, as usual, from the other kids picking on him. As he neared the site, he Saw a giant of a man leaning against a saddle in his favorite shady spot. Already committed to the location, Anget continued on.

"Hullo, boy, why you crying?" Niall asked with curiosity.

Anget got a real good look at the man and almost screamed. This giant was not only big but also ugly. Anget was a bright lad, though, and knew better than to pick on other people. "All the kids in the city call me Fat Ass Anget and after a while it hurts my feelings. I try to hit them, but because I'm so big, I can't catch them." Anget sat down across from Niall. "You're dogs are very cool. Rottweilers are mean dogs and would eat up the other kids for me."

Niall laughed, "I remember feeling like that when I was a boy, too. That's when I met my friends here. I'm not so bright but I'm good with animals." Niall motioned towards the dogs, "The dogs names are Kain and Koda," then to the horse, "that's Whisper," and last at the Falcon in the tree, "and that is Spirit."

"WOW! You have a pet falcon, too. That is ssooo cool!" Anget was enthralled at the animals.

"They are my friends. Pets are owned. I don't own any of them. They choose to stay with me and I choose to be with them." Niall sounded a little irritated.

Anget sat up straight from the expression on Niall's face, "I'm sorry, mister, I didn't mean to upset you."

Niall cursed at himself mentally, "I'm sorry kid, I don't mean to show anger to you," Niall went to change the subject, "Why don't you find something else to do to stay away from the bad kids?"

Anget was quick to respond, "I do. I read a lot. I am really smart because of it. If there is something to learn, then I try and find a book on it and learn, but every now and again, I just have to get outside. That's when they pick on me. Most of the time I just come here with my fishing stuff so that I can read and be outside."

"You read? I don't know how." Niall lowered his head from shame. "I'm not smart enough to read. I wanted to when I was a boy, but everyone say 'you're to DUMB to learn how to read', but animals don't care how dumb or ugly I am, they still stay friends with me." Niall reached over and rubbed Koda's head.

Anget smiled at the expression on the dog's face while she got her head rubbed. Anget then stood up with excitement, "I'll teach you how to read, Sir. We can meet here, say, twice a week. I'll bring my fishing stuff, too … and you can bring your friends. We'll have a picnic." Then Anget began to jump around, "We'll have fun."

Niall thought about it, "You mean I can learn to read? How exciting! I wouldn't be so dumb no more." Niall scratched his head for a moment. "Ok, Anget, you have a deal. My name is Niall by the way." Then Niall spit in his hand and extended it.

Anget stared at his outstretched hand for a moment. 'Ah, what the hell' he thought and spit in his own hand and shook Niall's. Anget was happy to meet someone that didn't pick on him, and he would get to put his smarts to good use. He wasn't sad anymore.

The two sat there amongst the animals and talked about their childhoods until the sun was near to setting. Niall then gave Anget a ride back into town. On the journey home the discussed their next meeting time. At the city gate, Niall let Anget off his horse. As Niall watched the boy run home, he thought about how nice it was to have a few friends.

---

"A Bird Lands Within Alban"
~ Lady Morgan Brasar

***Location: The Swan*********

The lady entered the Swan with servant in tow. It was clear that she was used to getting what she wanted. People moved out of her way without so much as a glance from her. Her hair was pulled back in a single black ribbon, a stark contrast to the spun gold color. That in itself was unusual and the fact that the hair fell to below her buttocks brought many admiring looks from both man and maid.

Her dress was of the deepest red and trimmed with black fur. Her cloak was black and had trimming to match the red of the dress. Her attire screamed wealth with every step.

She approached the bartender who had already stopped what he was doing to watch her progress towards him. "I wish your finest available room." She dropped a piece of gold on the counter. "For an undefinite amount of time. Is that a problem?"

"No Mistress, right this way mistress." He bobbed and bowed and showed her to a room. It was the best that he had. She looked around and nodded with approval.

"Here is an extra silver, make sure the fire is kept warm and my room clean." She waived in dismissal. The bartender smiled for this was a pigeon ripe for the plucking. He would be glad to give her what ever she wanted for she had already paid for much more then she had asked. He quickly withdrew.

Morgan looked around. It was a small hovel compared to what she usually surrounded herself with. She hated cities, but here was where she needed to be for here is where the Archdruid was said to dwell. She had been tracking the elusive druid for a year. It was rumored that he had crowned the new King. She scoffed. Though she had never met the famous Hawk, she knew from her sister of his wonderous attributes. But then, the little whelp had always been easily impressed.

Her servant began, with the help of some lads from the stable, to bring in her bags. She ignored them, opening her valise to remove the talsiman. She placed the golden chain with it beautiful etched raven around her neck and inside her dress. She looked out the window and saw the castle. She frowned and then pushed her thoughs away. After all, the raven was craftier then the hawk.

---

"Just the Truth"
~ Jon Sanglet, Earl of Abertawe
~ Renny Alberwine

Jon heard the report and smiled. It was the brightest smile anyone had seen from him in ages. His men had been watching the young Seth. His departure had come with a relief, and his return, a little concern until this report. "Bring the woman to me." The man turned to do as commanded. "And Thomas,.. treat her like she is royalty in the doing."

A couple of hours later, a man approached Renny. "Good Day Mistress. The Earl of Abertawe, Jon Sanglet requests and audience with you." The man bowed low and then stood to await her answer.

Renny kept her back to the messenger for a second while she rolled her eyes. Putting on her brightest smile, Renny turned back to the messenger. "The Earl, wishes to see me? Whatever for I wonder?" Renny said thoughtfully. "Let me freshen up." she explained to the messenger. *Make sure I look noble...I don't think my leather pants will do much for an impression.* Renny thought, smiling wryly.

One hour later Renny came back to a very tired looking messenger. "You haven't moved? My I wish my mother's staff was so diligent." Renny remarked. "Please take me to the Earl." *Let the games begin...* Renny thought sighing as she delicately picked up her skirts to follow the messenger.

The young man just smiled and led Renny to a horse provided for her. It was a beautiful chestnut mare. He offered his hand to help her mount and then mounted his own horse before leading her out of town. They were stopped only briefly at the gates for the guards knew the Earl's colors well.

It was a fifteen minute ride to the edge of the Earl's rambling estate and another fifteen minutes till they reached the keep. It was well kept and showed the labor of love in even its ivy covered walkways. The young man led her into a parlor. "The Earl will be with you shortly." He bowed and left her in the lavish but discreetly decorated parlor.

^That's perfect. I have been dying to meet him...^ Renny thought sarcastically as she looked around. ^Sparrow my dear I think I have hit the jackpot!^ Renny silently said excitedly, noticing the many valuables. ^Maybe I wont even have to keep my promise to Seth! ^

The Earl entered a few minutes later. He was a striking man, long gone from the softness of youth and not yet entering the onset of age. He was impeccably dressed in rich browns and golds. He approached and took Renny's hand and kissed it. "My lady, I must thank you for the pleasure of your company."

Renny smiled pleasantly and curtsied. "My lord the pleasure is mine, believe me," Renny murmured, watching him through lowered eyes. "Was there a reason you asked for my company sir?"

"It has recently come to my attention that you met a young guardsman by the name of Seth McCullen and became.. somewhat close to him. I might be able to make you a very rich woman if this were true?" He smiled at her with easy charm.

Renny looked at him with alarm. If HE knew then who else did? "How did you come by this information?" Renny asked, her voice tight and a bit strained as she fought the urge to slit his throat. "And why should I listen to your...suggestion?"

"I think a lady as lovely as yourself deserves a landed husband, not a dockside berth. I can provide you with all that you have ever wished for and all I want for it is the truth!" He said firmly.

"The truth? From me?" Renny asked with relieved amusement. "Mother would find that hilarious," she added under her breath.

Tapping her chin with her right forefinger, Renny appeared to be in deep thought. ^Wouldn't mind Sparrow getting his hands on the Earl...of all the nerve! Who I sleep with and whom I don't is not his concern. Besides, who says a landed husband is what I deserve?^ Renny thought, slightly bitter. Once more she glanced at the Earl, she'd admit to the fact he was handsome;in a noble sort of way. ^Would it be so bad? No more running...no more hiding or fighting...why does that sound so appealing?^

"I'm sorry sir, but as honored as I am by your proposal, I can not accept." Renny said, adding a tinge of regret. "At least not now. I just arrived here at the castle. How would it look if I married you right off? A young girl never left her parent's estate, first time at the castle and she marries the Earl of Abertawe? Aren't you a bit worried there will be talk?"

Sanglet chuckled. "I didn't mean me lass. Though you are a fetching piece. Young Seth is pledge to another and yet he was seen leading you into an unused stable in a most passionate manner. Do you think a young innocent lass who believes him faithful deserves such a man?"

"You mean...Bronwen right?" Renny asked searching her brain for who Seth said he was marrying. "I-I don't know her at all. But Seth was only leading me into the stables for a moment of solace. There was nothing 'passionate' about it." Renny explained.

"I myself am...in love. I could never ever do that to Mika. I merely asked Seth if he could show me the castle...and then when I realized I wouldn't be able to meet Mika at ALL while I was here, looking for a husband--" Renny added that bit bitterly. "--I started crying. I couldn't help it. I miss Mika so much..." Renny faltered, bringing tears to her eyes.

"And you normally console yourself with passionate kisses?" He asked with narrowed eyes.

Renny bit her lower lip and closed her eyes. "That, my lord, was not as 'passionate' as it seemed." she responded curtly. "Seth was my first--and presumably only--friend here at Abertawe. I merely gave him a peck on the cheek as I would any of my other friends."

Sanglet cursed. He paced back and forth. He could not ring the truth from the woman. "So, you are telling me that my man misinformed me and that Seth McCullen made no improper advances. That he is a fine and honorable man to marry the Princess of Abertawe?"

Renny stared back at the Earl with wide innocent eyes, not blinking once. "Was there ever any doubt my lord?" she asked, tilting her head to one side. "Perhaps its not is Seth good enough for Bronwen, maybe you should ask is Bronwen good enough for Seth."

He closed the distance between them in a blink. His hand snagged her hair as he jerked her head back to look at him. "Ever .. ever say a harsh word about the princess again and I will not only kill you. I will rid the city of any one who ever breathes your name, wench." He pushed her away just as suddenly as he had grabbed hold. "Get out! No wonder McCullen was attracted, you are the same filth."

Regaining her balance, Renny stodd straighter and smiled slowly. "A bit jealous? Angry that a young peasant managed to snag what you ould not?" With a glint in her eyes Renny grabbed her skirts and left for the doorway. "You have no idea what you are messing with, MY LORD." With a mock curtsy Renny left the hall, brushing aside the man from before. "Make ready my horse." she ordered.

After the woman had left. Sanglet paced back and forth. He knew that Seth had come close to betraying his supposed pure love. He just could not prove it and that maddened him. He threw his goblet across the room. "Cort!"

"Yes Sir!" The man appeared immediately.

"I want to know everything about that woman you can find out. I want to know her friends, where she squats, what she eats. I want it within two days." He said coldly.

"As good as done." The man turned on his heel and left.

Sanglet poured another drink. He raised it to the air. "No milady, but neither do you." His unheard toast carried in the wind.

---

"Siblings"
~ King Hawk
~ Princess Rowena.

Hawk walked alone in the gardens, he still could not lose that feeling of sadness, or being totally alone. Because he had been away so often, he did not have many friends, and the likelihood of making new ones seemed grim. People just did not befriend the King, they kept their distance. He was so lost in thought, that he only noticed that he had stumbled upon his little sister's Garden when her maid curtsied in front of him. With a wave of his hand he motioned her to keep her distance and then sat down to watch Rowena play.

It did not take him long to realize that she was not playing. Rowena was diligently working the soil before the winter frosts came. She had learned from the royal gardener that her seeds would not good soft soil when the thaws came and it was easier if one prepared the ground now and then let the winter freezes help kill the grass and weeds. Her maid finally whispered in her ear that the King was here. Rowena looked around but she could not see him. Her vision was barely clear enough for her to see what she did. She did most of her work by feel. "Hawk?"

He had enjoyed watching her tend to her garden, and was almost sorry that she had seen him now. "It's me. I hope you do not mind that I watch for a while." He kept a smile on his face, but he forgot to keep the sadness out of his voice.

"You can help me?" She suggested with a pleading smile? "Your hands are bigger then mine."

He started to say no, and then thought better off it. Hawk was not in the mood to do anything else today, and somehow the simple work appealed to him. That and he was spending too little time with his little sister. "All right, I will help you." He got down on his knees and followed her instructions. "How are you doing?" He asked her after a little while.

"Well, I only have this little part done and I have to do all the square that is in the wood before the first freeze. The Gardener says that is not far away." She indicated the wooden square they worked within. "But I don't want the Gardener to do it." She added hastily, misunderstanding what Hawk was asking. "I must make this garden as part of my training. I am going to be a druid."

"Mother told me about that,, congratulation, I hope it will make you happy, and give you peace," he sat back and swallowed. Peace was something he had very little off at the moment. Thank the gods for Audrey, she was the one person that made this all worthwhile. "You seem to be doing fine, little one." Hawk tried to be cheerful.

"I am doing better. I am lonely sometimes. I can't find anyone to play with and you can't ORDER someone to play with you." She looked up at him. Her face held a strange distant expression.

"Ah little one" hawk gathered her in his arms, Suddenly he was fighting against tears, so he waited a few seconds before replying. "You cannot. But a nice girl like you can try to make friends. That is not so hard. Even if you are a princess, a lot of people will not be honest to you, but there's always one or two that will. Would you like to try that?" If only that was possible for Kings too. He was glad she could not see his moist eyes.

"Can I tell you a secret?" She said softly.

"Sure you can." He understood that she was doubly sad now, with her patron the Arch druid gone. Hawk spoke briefly to the man this morning. But the priest had not been willing to tell him anything, he had looked very troubled though, and that fact worried Hawk a great deal.

"I used to sneak out of the castle and pretend I was from the city. I would play with the kids there and it was fun. I can't do that now cause I can't .. I can't see. I liked not being a princess for just a little while." She hugged him fiercely.

"I can imagine that. I used to do the same thing I was a little boy. Maybe we can arrange something like that. There will have to be guards watching you from a distance, you understand that. But one off mothers maids has a daughter a little bit older then you, and she is a wild one. but she has got her heart in the right place. I think that she would be willing to go along with this game, and take you out to the town and look after you. Your eyesight is getting better, and there are still a lot of games you can play." He held her on his lap, and let her cry.

"I would like that. But how come I have to have guards? I am just a little girl?" She didn't understand why she would need to be guarded?

"Because you are my sister. And I am now the King. there are bad people out there who want to hurt me, and if they cannot get to me, they might hurt you. But don't worry about it, I will see to it that you are well guarded all the time. You are much too precious to me. And Ro can I ask you for a favor? I know that little Rhys is much younger than you, he is only three, but he is lonely to, could you play with him once in a while?"

"I used to play with him some. Before I got hurt, but nurse doesn't want me to knock him over or anything. She said I should stay away until I am better." Rowena answered sadly.

"Don't worry about that, I will have a word with that nurse off his. And if she keeps talking so foolishly, he will get a new nurse. You are free to spend as much time with him as you both like. Little children are tough, he will bounce back if you were to knock him over by accident." Hawk smiled and tousled her hair. "Feeling better?"

Rowena nodded. "I was sad because the Archdruid left, too. He is in danger and he wouldn't listen. Maybe because I am just a child and don't know much?"

Hawk laughed now. "I do not think so, he would not listen to me either. I could not stop him, but I don't feel comfortable about him leaving. But maybe he sees me as a child to." At least his sister had been able to making feel better for a little while

Rowena nestled closer to Hawk. "I love you. Please don't leave us again?"

"I was not planning on leaving you, sweetheart. I am not too happy at the moment, but I will learn to be a king. And Audrey is here, Rhys and the rest of my family. I plan to make a new life here." He kissed her on the top of her head. Soon he hoped to have more children and have a warm family around him, like his parents had always provided for him and his brothers and sisters. "I am here for you, little one."

"Promise me? Promise me that you will not run away again?" Rowena hugged him furiously. "If I can lose my sight and still not run away, you can be a king and not run away?"

"I am the King know, little one, I cannot run away again." That thought made him sad, but then again all the people he loved were here, so what reason would he have to run now.

"Uncle Wyn was king and he ran away and then he died." She said worriedly.

"Uncle win was very sad. Because his daughter had gone missing, and he loved her very much. People can do strange things when a loved one dies. But don't worry, I am happy here now."

---

"Should Have Known"
Lady Renalla Ap Capall (Renny Alberwine)

Sighing, Renny followed the path that Seth had shown her hours before. Glancing about, she looked for someone following her. The meeting with the Earl had not gone well at all.

Clutching her cape more closely about herself, Renny walked along the roadside. Humming, Renny waited. "Mi'ladee wan' sum flowhers?" the signal came, twenty paces to her left.

"No thank you," she replied, her eyes narrowed while she waited for the rest. If this was coincidental then she'd turn in her name right then.

"Please mi'ladee. you really wan' sum," the man answered.

Relieved, Renny tossed back her hood and embraced the stooped man. "Bear, how nice to see such a familiar face," she whispered, tightly hugging her old friend.

"Look at you! Barely recognized you Ren," Bear told her, whistling low. "Why if I didna think your mother would have my piece I'd bed you meself!"

Renny grinned and batted his arm playfully. "You wouldn't want Sparrow to hear that would you?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. "Where is Sparrow?" she asked a second later, eager to see him.

Bear looked away, pretending to be busy fixing his rags. "He's...well you see...its like..." Bear started uneasily. "Your mother took him off the plan!" he blurted out finally.

Renny blinked, her smile frozen on her face as she tried to comprehend what Bear had just told her. "You're fooling! Mother knows what he means...its a joke right? Raven or Burt put you up to this?" she asked, getting more and more concerned.

"Just calm down okay Renny?" Bear told her sternly, reminding her absently of another man telling her to calm down from when she was younger. ^Who...?^ Renny thought, trailing off as Bear went on. "--your mother said that you and Sparrow were too close, she heard what he said to you before you left and she didn't like it."

"He as only being--"

"He was being pigheaded and selfish. He knows better then to put you in that position, given what you have to do." Bear interrupted sharply. "Listen, just tell me what's going on and I'll let your mother know." Bear finished, turning away. He didn't like doing this to Renny at all--she was like a daughter to him--but her mother was adament.

Renny stared at his broad back coldly for a long while, blaming him for everything. "Tell her there are more problems then we believed and that I will do as she told me." Renny said coldly, her whole body tense with anger. Turning on her heel she stalked back the way she had come. "Also tell her that I know what she doesn't want me to know." Renny tossed over her shoulder, totally bluffing, but knowing that it would freak her mother out to no end at all.

Bear watched her until she was nothing more then a dot. Sighing he savagely kicked a rock into a tree. he cursed the day her mother had brought up this plan and he cursed the day they found the girl. " 'Family are the worse enemies' " he quoted softly.

---

"A Devastating Blow"
Unknown Player

The man crept through the castle halls. For once the climbing witch was sleeping in her own chambers. It was not often she did so. He would not get many other chances. He slid open the door silently and worked his way in. The door clicked shut and the girl stirred. He froze where he was for to be discovered now was certain death.

He thought as he stood there waiting how wondrous it would feel. To put his hands about her neck, to see her eyes realize her certain death had been a vision of his for some time. He was paid for this job and he loved every minute of it. The stalking, the waiting, the approach and then the kill gave him a rush of pleasure like nothing else. His employer had been very detailed about this woman. A climber of the lower orders and a healer, did not deserve to be consort to a King, let alone his queen.

He moved closer now that she had stilled. She was indeed a fetching piece and he thought for a moment of having her before he killed her. But the chance of her screaming was just too great and this job had paid to well. It was risky enough that her employer had wanted her to die slowly. The knowledge of her death to be realized before she perished.

Now at her bedside, he suddenly moved. Both hands tightened on her throat. Her eyes flew open and fear filled them. He smiled down at her. "Good Morning, Sweet Audrey. I send greetings from the North. The King whose name I cannot utter, wishes you a speedy demise and to know that this is your payment for daring to touch a person of royal birth." He laughed lightly against her struggles. Her legs were trapped by her own blanket, she could not even kick at him.

His heart pounded as he saw realization, fear and even anger in her eyes. She clawed at his hands, but he did not loosen his grip. As she began to still, he leaned down and placed a gentle kiss upon her lips. "I will be sure to take care of the King for you."

He made sure she was truly dead. Once the deed was done, he carefully smoothed her hair and clothes. He pulled the blankets up and crossed her arms across her chest. He gently closed her eyes and then took from his pouch a feather, a black raven's feather and placed it in her hands. Then, as swiftly as he had entered, he left, a small silent shadow in the quiet halls of Caer Alban.

---

"Donn a calling"
~ King Hawk
~ Body Guard

After another long day, hawk went to bed, he wanted some peace and quiet now, with his girl friend. Now that the coronation had went so well it would soon be time to introduce her to his people and make her his queen. Then they could be together for always, that made him feel happy. Having him her near made this whole thing worthwhile. To his dismay, Audrey was not in his bed this evening. Then he remembered, she wanted to do some work, study about herbs, and would probably been so tired that she had decided to go to bed in her own rooms.

Hawk changed into more comfortable clothing, a heavy robe. It wasn't far to her quarters, she really must move in with him permanently soon. He tried not to be annoyed when one off the tall bodyguards followed him, Hawk still was not used to them.

Softly he opened the ball to the chamber, he did not want to wake her if she was asleep already.

"My love?" He said softly. With a smile on his face he walked towards the bed, he would wake her gently, with caresses. in the dark he sat down next to her.

"My lovely lady," He whispered. "It is your lover, we will have a feast tonight." He took a strand of her beautiful hair between his fingers and felt the softness, smelled her beautiful hair. Then his hand lowered to her face.

He almost stopped breathing, she was cold to the touch.

"Guards! Guards!" He bellowed. "Bring me light."

The door burst open and the Outlander guard leapt into the room with dirk and sword drawn. Seeing the king and his mistress in bed, he moved quickly to their side. The king was unharmed, but it was obvious even in the dim light that, the mistress would never more grace the king's bed. He made a strange guttural yell towards the door, and then moved strike a flint to the lamp beside the bed.

Her beautiful eyes stared at Hawk not seeing anything. But the look in them was something that he would never forget, the fear, the pain, the agony of death. For she was dead, his true love was dead. Hawk sank to his knees, next to her, not able to do anything else. He took her in his arms, and held her close.

"It is alright, my life." He murmured. "I am here, I am not going to leave you. Everything will be alright."

---