Upheaval and Change - Tales 11

There were times when Amlyn could barely distinguish dream from reality as he drifted in and out of consciousness.

He recognised certain faces amidst a cacophony of images in his mind. Friends and enemies of both past and present, grey and lifeless like the corpses of people he had slain in the name of duty. By their presence alone they accused him: Why are you given the chance at life that we were denied? In his delirium, he could give no answer.

While Amlyn sweated in restless slumber, the world moved on. But eventually, even dreams must succumb to the relentless return of reality. As it was, Amlyn awoke to the harsh chill of the last hour of darkness before the return of daylight to the land. He could faintly see rough canvas above his head, and smell the mix of herbal essence that clung to his nostrils like the smell of roasting meat. A heavy blanket covered his body, upon which rested the bandaged stump of his left arm.

Dazed, he lifted it up in front of his face. The agony was deep to the bone, gnawing it's way past the elbow and up towards his shoulder. The bandage was soaked brown with dried blood. Yet there was also pain of a more familiar nature. When he first injured his arm he had realised that it would never heal fully again, and lamented the loss. He found the sense of deja vu almost overwhelming.

The tent was empty, but several large candles burned a slow and small wick in the cold. Ignoring the protest of his arm, and the numbness in his left leg, he made an effort to struggle to a sitting position. He regretted the action, for his head spun viciously, and he launched into a fit of coughing, aggravating the hurt further. After a few moments to steady his resolve, he slowly crawled across the floor, dragging the blanket over him as he went.

An eternity later, he reached the entrance of the tent. He felt terribly sick having moved this far, and his vision was badly blurred for several minutes after coming to a halt. He wrapped the blanket around himself tightly, shivering against the cold, and sat back against one of the poles that supported the wall of the tent.

And waited...

The sky began to lighten. From the darkness a slow spread of yellow gradually crept outwards from the line of the horizon across the treetops. Colour shifted and solidified, reflected off streaks of clouds in the distance that moved with minimal speed yet relentless advance. Amlyn watched it all, unmoving but certainly moved.

Amlyn felt a hand touch his shoulder and looked up into the friendly face of a young druid.

"Beautiful, is it not? The gods never cease to amaze me," the druid said as he too looked at the sunrise. A single tear moved down his cheek and he quickly wiped it away with his sleeve, hoping the knight did not see it.

Amlyn recognised the druid's face, but for a moment was at a loss to recall where he had seen it. Then he remembered what had happened. For a moment, he became bitter and angry. But, like the sunrise that now took hold across the township, it dawned on him that perhaps it was not his place to judge those offering help to a dying man. And neither should this boy become the target of his disappointment.

He calmed his emotion and took a deep breath. "It is," he said weakly. The words caught in his throat from lack of use. "And it seems to be the first time I have actually... seen it."

Eruic looked into the knights eyes and saw a lot of hurt inside. He recognized that there were deep things that Amlyn had trouble talking about. Things that were kept hidden deep inside, things that would be revealed in their own time.

"I... believe I should give you my thanks," said Amlyn.

"It was my duty, sir knight. It was not yet your time. I foresee great things still in your future."

"That you can see great things in my future is terrifying." Amlyn turned back to the morning sunrise and hunkered down inside his blanket. "For I can see nothing beyond the next few minutes of this waking moment." Amlyn could feel the encroachment of fatigue and sleep upon his body, a sign that his exertion and wounds were draining his energy rapidly.

The archdruid seemed to sense this. "Come," he said, "let's get thee to bed for some rest." He let Amlyn take one more long look at the sunrise and then helped him back to his bedding.

The castle seemed abnormally... quiet. It was as if a curtain of dread hung over the inhabitants, almost palpable in its thickness. Little word that could be trusted had come in from the battlefields but rumors ran like a torrential river overflowing its banks.

A solitary pair of footsteps rang through the empty corridor, accompanied infrequently by a servant in full livery dashing to one location or another. There was a blackness in the castle that she simply couldn't understand. The rumors couldn't have affected the castle folk to that degree.

Finally, she stopped before a pair of grandiose doors, waiting to be announced. Adjusting her cloak over her shoulders, Deirdre frowned at the dust and grime that had encrusted the hem throughout their journey. She would have taken the time to change if she hadn't feared that she would put the task off longer than normal. To say that she wasn't looking forward to this audience was a grand bit of understatement.

Too soon she heard her name announced, and the doors opened to allow her entry. Iorwerth's son sat regally in the throne. He almost looked as if he belonged there. Slipping to one knee, she kneeled before him, waiting his permission to rise. "My regent," she said respectfully.

"Please get up, captain." He said with a smile. This must be a special woman, for he knew she was one of his father's favorites, and the old general usually did not take kindly to women in fighting positions. "Has your mission been successful, my lady?"

Rising, she nodded solemnly. "Yes, my lord, although Lord Gretsworth and one of my men were injured on the way home." She hesitated before continuing. "We were protecting a village from attack when they fell. Lord Gretsworth awakened near the castle, but he seemed feverish. I doubt he would be ready for judgement yet, although you may have to consult with the healers."

Ian spoke. "Judgement, why would the man need judgement. I thought we sent you to find the princess' rescuer?" He was confused by the Captain's words.

Deirdre bit her lip, her calm expression faltering for a moment. "True," she agreed, then turned to address Hawk again. "But, my regent, the man who rescued the princess Rowena is the same man who abducted the Lady Isa. He did return willingly with us, however."

"He abducted my mother, tell me, did he kidnap my sister, too?" Hawk was beginning to feel uncomfortable with this and he could see that the captain was too, she was protecting this man, why?

Deirdre shook her head slowly. "He claims not to have, my lord, but I know little of what truly happened. Has little Rowena regained her memory of the events?" she asked, worry creasing her eyes.

"No." Hawk said. "Maybe it will help when she sees him again. I will not allow her to see him alone. But I will allow her to see him, when I am there as well. Is he up to that?"

"I do not know, sire," she said slowly. "He seemed feverish but rational this morning. But I did not check on his condition before I came to your audience. I will have the healer sent here immediately, however," she added, waving towards a servant hovering in the corner.

She paused a moment before continuing. "If it pleases your majesty, may I ask how things go at the front?" Her thoughts immediately switched to Brendan; she had been one of his strongest supporters to allow him to fight at the front... but if anything happened to him, she would never forgive herself.

Hawk pauzed and waited for a moment before answering her. "I do not know yet. To be honest, it could go either way. I have sent reinforcements, but I do not know if they will arrive in time. I am very worried for my father and my brother, my lady. And I wish I could be there with them. Now please, my lady, take some rest, and then you can dine with me and my family tonight and tell me all about your mission." He said with a diplomatic smile.

"Thank you, my lord," she said graciously, startled by how like his brother's that smile looked. "I will, of course, have definitive news of Lord Gretsworth's status by then." Bowing low, she slipped quickly out of the hall. Her emotions were mixed as she strode towards her room, the hallways looking only vaguely familiar; she had been gone too long. Regent or no, Hawk seemed more worried about the front lines than he was willing to admit. But more importantly, she only hoped the man didn't suspect that she felt anything about their falled Lord Gretsworth than simple curiosity.

"Die!,"Seth yelled as he sliced the enemy solider across the chest. The soldier fell and Seth noticed the Nethobian army was actually starting to fall back in total disarray. That didn't stop Seth from slicing every enemy soldier he saw coming at him. He was more than amazed that he had lasted this long. He was downright astonished. He was also exhausted.

Seth had killed more men today then he would of ever have liked to, but this was in service of his country so he had to set that aside and fight hard. The fact that his technique was great was part of the reason he was still standing. The training he went through made sure that when he fought he would fight well. He had truly done his mentor proud. When he wasn't fighting he was thinking of his love back at the Castle.

He sliced through another man that came at him and was amazed at the strength he still had in reserve. If another well trained soldier came at him he would be doomed. He was almost sure of that, but you never know. Life is full of surprises. Who would have thought that he would end up falling in love with a princess. Now that the Nethobian army was falling back there was a small glimmer of hope in that. Now it was just a matter of time and planning to see what would decide the finality of this battle.

Another half hour passed and suddenly, he looked around and there was none left. Bodies littered the field around him. There was not a standing Nethobian to be seen. A cheer began to sound the field. Seth looked around. Not a single man, who had stood within the circle of Nethbians, stood still. He, himself, was covered with bruises and blood. It was difficult to tell if it was his or the enemies. Seth's energy suddenly left him, his legs began to tremble with exhaustion as his mind began to accept that it was over. It was finally over.

Isa was working with Bronwen on bobbin lace when her son entered. She had not seen him a great deal since the funeral of his uncle.

Hawk went to his mother and eldest sister, "Ladies tonight we will dine with Captain Deirdre. Mother, do you think Rowena is well enough to join us?"

"Aye, she can attend us. She has been improving some of late." Isa said quietly. Rowena was still withdrawn and not the child that she had left so long ago.

Bronwen looked up. "Did she find Rowena's mysterious rescuer?"

"Yes, she has." Hawk said, he did not want to tell his mother and his sister too much yet, he did not want to worry them. "Seven o'clock then, is that all right with you?"

"Aye! We will see you then." Hawk had been inundated since the funeral of his Uncle. She rarely saw him beyond family meals.

*Several hours later*

Hawk was pacing in the dining hall, Audrey was busy and could not join them. Hawk was tired, work kept very busy, there was so much to do before his coronation, and he wanted to be at the front. It was then that a messenger found him.

"Your highness, the latest news from the front, we have won!" The man hesitated. "But your brother has been seriously wounded."

Hawk sighed. "Thank you," the messenger left. Now Hawk would have to tell his mother and sisters this piece of bad news, would it never end?

However, it was not his family that walked hesitantly through the door, peering curiously at the messenger that slipped through the door as she had entered. The captain of the guard had cleaned up since the afternoon. In a pair of close-fitting tan breeches and a matching embroidered jacket over her white blouse, she felt more dressed up than she had been in months.

"Your majesty," she said quietly, bowing reverently. Her cheeks grew hot with embarrassment. "I apologize if I did not treat you with the proper respect earlier this evening. I was not aware your uncle... that you had been officially crowned in our absence, your highness."

"I have not been crowned yet, captain. Things don't move that fast, but my uncle is dead, and I mourn him. Now please, this is an informal dinner, and my name is Hawk." He smiled at her. Then his face became serious again. "I believe you and my brother were friendly not? I just received news that he is seriously injured."

The ladies filed into dinner. Isa had Rowena by the hand. The little girl was gaily dressed but her eyes lacked the usual echoing joy that everyone had come to know.

Deirdre bowed to each of the newcomers, using the opportunity to clear the horrified statement from her face. Hopefully, no one but Hawk had seen it. She yearned to ask for more information regarding Brendan's condition, but from the look on his face, he hadn't told his mother yet. Her face still a little grey, she forced a smile. "Good evening, ladies. It is good to see you again. I am glad to see you both in good health."

Rowena's face lit up. "Captain... did you find Papa?"

Isa's face clouded up. She had tried so hard to reach her daughter and yet a hopeful word of a man who had barely known her would bring a smile to the child's face.

Nodding, the knight bent to pick the girl up, surprised by how light she was in her arms. She must have been more ill than Deirdre had originally thought. "Yes, we found him, little princess. But he is... resting now. It was a long journey and he is very tired." Her eyes flickered up to meet Isa's, trying to convey a mess of feelings in one glance.

Isa didn't know whether to be happy or more concerned. She looked at her son for guidance and confirmation. It was clear that her husband's absence and the illness of her child were taking its dreadful toll.

Hawk took his mother by the arm, and also mentioned Bronwen to follow him. His heart almost broke these days when he looked at his mother. She had always being the strong one in the family, always there for the others. But since her abduction and her illness something had changed, she was frail and quiet, and this worried him, because he knew he would need his mother's strength soon.

"Mother, Bron, I have heard from the front. We have won a victory, and father is alright. But Brendan has been injured, they are taking good care of him, and he will be brought to the palace as soon as they can move him." He tried to look confidently at her.

"And your father?" Isa asked quietly, searching his face.

"I don't know yet. I hope he comes home, and does not stay at the border the whole winter. I can order him to, if you like." Hawk said, he knew that his mother needed his father now.

Isa's eyes said more then her words. "Please?" It was a quiet request. She forced a smile to her face. "So, our captain has found Rowena's mysterious rescuer?"

Hawk in the meantime watched his mother, he was indeed frightened for her now, to hear her plead like that was very unusual.

Isa moved back over to where Deirdre and Rowena were chatting. Her daughter was more animated then she had been.

"Captain, when can I see him?" Rowena was pouting a little for effect.

It was hard to resist that look, especially from one so young as the little princess, but Deirdre set her down gently before answering. "Maybe tomorrow, little one. He needs his rest." She smiled gently, hoping it looked indulgent instead of expressing the worry she felt churning in her stomach.

Hawk took her aside. "I would like to visit him first, before I let my little sister near him." He said softly, but there was something of a threat in his voice.

"Of course, my liege," Deirdre replied quickly. "In truth, the healer told me that he should be capable of leaving the infirmary by tomorrow; he has recovered quickly since we have reached the castle. You should be able to speak with him after dinner, if that is your wish."

"Come you two, matters of state can wait. For now, we will celebrate the homecoming of our captain and the better news from the border." Isa moved between them and took an arm of each. "For now, you will escort the Queen mother to eat?" She forced a smile to her face.

Amlyn did not fully awake again until the next day. His sleep had been interrupted several times by druids who sought to gently force foul-smelling concoctions down his throat. He was still too weak to resist, but at least the potions had a sedative effect. The darkness of slumber always overcame him shortly after. On this particular morning, he was roused from oblivion by the churning of his stomach, and the taste of bile rapidly rising in his throat.

Someone had thought to place a pail near where he rested. He grappled at it with urgency, and leaned over to violently heave a black ichor from inside his guts. It felt as if his stomach was twisting itself inside out, while the stink of digested herbs assailed his senses. The smell was almost enough on it's own to have him retching for several minutes.

When he had finally finished, a druid appeared as if on cue, taking the pail and placing down another one filled with fresh water. He nodded at him and left. Amlyn was slightly surprised with the timing and efficiency of the routine. But the thought quickly faded as he sought to remove the foul taste from his mouth.

He lay down afterwards to gather his mind together. The sickness in his belly had gone, replaced with a hungry sensation that crawled about like a worm through the soil. The pain in his arm was now a throbbing pulse, and he could feel each pump of blood through his forearm. His leg still felt numb, but he could flex and move it about if he did not mind receiving a healthy dose of pain in return. So he was alive, for better or worse.

"You look much stronger today, Sir knight. The blessings of the gods be with you." Eruic said as he entered and walked towards Amlyn.

"Thank you,"said Amlyn. He sat up, using his good arm to support himself. "I would ask a question of you if I may."

"You may ask, and I will answer if I am able," Eruic replied as he sat down on the ground next to Amlyn.

"Do you know what is currently happening with the war? It has been... several days, I would imagine, since we attacked the Nethbians." He assumed that they had been successful, but the scale and costs of which, he was uncertain.

"The Nethbians have been driven back, with a lot of casualties on both sides and if I am not mistaken, you should be heading for home soon. I have told my druids that in three days we will be heading back." Eruic smiled as he saw Amlyn finally realize that he was talking to the Arch-Druid himself.

Amlyn had indeed guessed at that point that the boy was the Arch-druid. He had heard the rumors circulate about the town before he left for the capital days ago, that the arch-druid would be arriving that evening. And there had been other whispers mentioning his 'unusual' age. But something else in his mind took precedence over the revelation.

Home. He hadn't realised how... foreign the term sounded. Home was all the way across the other side of the continent. Home was one of two provinces, but neither would now accept him. Home was as real and tangible as the missing hand of his left arm. If indeed the war was over for the moment, he was faced with the dilemma of where to go from here. The capital would be as good a start as any, he thought.

"Aye, it would be good to return," he lied. "I think in three days I may be able to ride without worsening my wounds. And," he added, "I owe you a debt, Arch-druid. Should you need my service, and if I am able to do so," he said, glancing at his arm, "I will gladly render any aid within my power."

Eruic looked long and hard at the knight's face and saw a lot of pain in his eyes. "Why don't you accompany me? At least it will give you time to consider what to do next."

Amlyn initially wished to refuse the offer. He preferred to travel alone, and he needed the time to think about where he should go from here. But he knew that even after three days of rest he would still be weak. There was also the possibility of reopening his wounds further if he wasn't careful. "Are you returning to the capital?"

"Not to the capital, but the druid forest-keep close to it. Not more than half a day's ride difference."

Amlyn paused for a moment. Half a days ride should certainly be managable, he thought. "Very well, then I accept your offer, as long as I do not burden you with my presence." He grimaced as his stomach cramped in the aftermath of his vomiting. "As I fear that I already have," he added.

Eruic smiled again and said softly, "You are not a burden, Sir Knight. You are under my care, as are all the souls who come to me." Eruic stood. "Now, you must excuse me, for there are other duties that need my attention. Love and light be with you, young knight." Before he left the tent, he turned and looked at Amlyn again, "And remember ... The only constant thing in the Universe, is change." With that the Arch-druid left.

Amlyn watched the boy leave. Another druid came in shortly after he left, bringing a tray of bread and cheese. While he seemed to lack sufficient appetite, Amlyn nevertheless forced himself to consume several mouthfuls of food. He needed to store energy again for the return trip to the capital. Where hard decisions would need to be made.

***

Evandler Border of Abertawe and it's northern neighbour Ysgubor-y-Coed

"ARMED PARTY APPROACHING THE GATE!" The cry rang out from the top of the wall. The Captain of the Watch had been expecting the warning, for merchants having arrived in the last hour had informed the soldiers on duty of the contingent's imminent visit. From the reports, the party was said to consist of five armed and mounted knights of Dinodig, along with their retinue and several carts of supplies. They were in no hurry, but moved with purpose and direction straight to Abertawe. All that the Captain needed to do was find out why.

He moved his horse out between the wooden doors and rode up to the advancing group, who halted. True to what was said, there were indeed five knights mounted on white chargers. They rode in two ranks, three in the front and two at the back, and seemed almost oblivious to the entourage of squires, servants and provisions that trailed behind them in a long line.

The man in the middle of the front rank was the tallest and broadest of all of the knights, and demanded the Captain's attention just by his presence alone. He wore half plate and chain under a long white cloak, embossed with red around the collar and streching out to cover the rear half of his horse. His shield was coloured plain white, but featured a red lion couchant in the centre. He appeared to be in his late thirties, with short cut black hair and trimmed beard, both of which had a healthy tinge of white throughout. Cool grey eyes looked at him, but they held no malice or threat. For he smiled at the Captain as he approached and bowed slightly from the back of his horse.

"Hail to thee!" the Captain said, in a loud voice that would carry back to the men on the wall. "Please sirs, identify yourselves and your intentions!" He noticed that the rest of the relatively younger knights were dressed in a similar fashion, down to the riding cloaks and shields which bore an ordinary background of white but with different charges of red. One of the knights in the back row was even female. They all deferred to the senior man who had kicked his horse out to stand alone at the front of the group.

"I am Earl Cynrain of Dinodig, leader of the Order of the White Shield. These knights," he gestured behind him with his hand, "are accompanying me and are also of the Order. We have travelled here seeking the hospitality of Abertawe, as we have an issue of justice to pursue amongst your people." Cynrain folded his hands over the front of his saddle and waited for a reply.

"Well met and greetings to you Lord Cynrain. As my position demands I must ask you of the nature of your business here. Then I may make arrangements for you and your companions to be suitably received by my superiors." The Captain thought that it would have to be unusual, having travelled such a long way.

Earl Cynrain nodded. "We have no wish to disrupt any of you for any longer than is necessary. It has been a long journey here and I have every intention of returning home soon," he said casually. His tone of voice then assumed a harder, more serious edge. "We are here to call one of our... countrymen to account for past digressions. I believe he his here in Abertawe, and his actions against the people of Dinodig were such that only his death may offer some peace to his victims. It is the oath sworn by the Order that this be done."

Given the expression on the Earl's face, the Captain decided not to push the issue further by asking for more details. He bowed. "I will send word to the capital at once. I believe the King will wish to have words with you."

"As compelled am I by rules of hospitality to greet your King... I look forward to meeting him." But it was clear there was something else on the Earl's mind.

The knights of the Order of the White Shield entered the town, drawing closer to their goal with every single step.

Bronwen went riding once again. Everyday she had ridden to the hidden pond that Seth had shown her. She would say a quiet prayer for him and all of her friends and family that fought so bravely. Then she would say a quiet prayer for her sister as well.

Seth shielded his eyes as the sun shone through the trees. He was home and better yet healed up, stronger, and longing for his love. He rode for the Pond where they had been before. He dismounted as he came to the clearing and saw her. The quintessance of all beauty. He set down his armor and his sword softly and asked softly, "May I behold the most beautiful woman in all the world?"

Bronwen froze in her prayers. She spun around and her eyes grew large. "Seth? Is it really you?" He looked older and rougher then when he had left.

He smiled and was still tired, but was pretty much fully healed from battle. He nodded and said,"It is me my beautiful love."

"And father? My brother?" She asked with concern. She moved towards him. Her hair was braided into two braids. Her riding dress was a deep blue and showed her figure to advantage.

He admired her figure, but answered her question,"Your father is fine and your brother will be I assure you."he moved towards her and asked,"May I embrace the beauty that is before me?"

Bronwen moved into his arms giving him a relieved hug. She did not say anything but rather drew comfort from his warmth and tender hug.

He held her gently and said,"You seem to have done well since I left. You feel and look as beautiful as ever."

"I have not done well. I have been miserable." She confided.

"I am sorry that you have been so miserable. How can i help you become better?"

"Is father coming?" She asked hopefully.

He nodded and said,"That he is. I have missed you so much, it was the thought of you that gave me the energy to keep fighting on the battlefield."

"I doubt you had time to think of me whilst wielding a sword." She teased.

"Oh believe me, you are all that I could think about besides staying alive. The love felt for you and stil do is what fueled me during the battle."He said honestly and looking into her eyes intensely.

Bronwen blushed. "We should go back to the Castle. My brother will wish to speak with you." She said quietly.

Seth smield and said,"Of course." He held out his arm and asked,"Shall we or should I go alone?"

"It would probably best if you return without me." She pointed it with quiet dignity.

He smiled and nodded. He then asked quietly,"Am I permitted to give the beauty whom I am speaking with a small kiss?"

She nodded and chastely upturned her lips to meet his. She had missed him. His lips merged with hers and fit as if thye were designed for this purpose as he reayed a deep longing to do this for some time.

Bronwen sighed and relaxed against him as his lips claimed her more passionately. Her arms slipped around his neck pulling him close to her.

"Very Charming" A voice said lazily from behind them.

Seth froze and stopped kissing and turned to see who it was.

The Earl Sanglant was leaning nonchalantly against a tree. He stood and smiled at Bronwen. "It seems, milady, that your father's fears were misplaced."

Bronwen flushed a deep red. "I - I didn't hear you approach."

"Obviously," He said looking with distaste at the young guardsman.

Seth saw this look of distaste and was wondering what was going on in thsi guys mind. he knew that if he wasn't careful the beans would be spiled before Seth would have a chance to properly propose. "Earl, what brings you to this waterfall?"he asked watching how he treaded.

"Same as you, seeking out the hand of our fair princess. However, I believe I have permission to pay court. And you?" He said quietly. He looked over at Bronwen, his displeasure with her evident.

Seth stood firm and said,"I was on my way." He had no intention of lying since that would make him look even worse.

"Ah, then if you do not have permission. I am sure you will understand if I insist I escort the princess back." Jon said with an easy smile. He offered his arm to Bronwen.

"I'm sure you will understand that I am her personal guard, so it is my duty to make sure she is in good hands."He said staring him down. He turned to her and asked in a whisper,"Do you want to go with him?"

"I .. maybe I should?" She whispered worriedly.

"Do you not know that it is rude to whisper." Jon teased. "Run along, man. I am sure the King will love to hear about this kiss just as you told about our kiss?" His voice took a more serious note.

Seth turned to him and asked,"What do you mean I told about yours?"

"Come my good man, we both know it must have been you that told the King of our passionate kiss in the garden." Jon teased. Bronwen turned a deep shade of purple.

He shook his head, but he did know about the event. He stood tall and answered,"I did not do so sir. Please do not make such accusations. Please do not tell the King of the kiss that I was allowed to have."

"Hmm then maybe I should call you out for kissing my fiancee?" He said imperiously.

This was some new news to him. He looked to Bronwen with a questioning look and asked,"Fiancee?"

"He.. he said he was asking father for my hand. But then father took him to the border with him." Bronwen stammered, tears filled her eyes as she didn't know what to do.

Jon moved to her side. "Come lass, such a delicate creature should not be exposed to such matters. McCullen and I will settle this later. Let me take you home as he does not have permission to pay addresses."

Bronwen looked uncertaintly between the two men. She had to go back with one because to leave them alone would be to risk them injuring one another. She did not dare offend the Earl and she did not want to hurt Seth.

Seth moved close to Bronwen and boldy said,"If you do not wish to go with this gentleman, then you do not have to. I'm sure he would agree with me that what you want is best." He turned to the peer member. "Earl, I acknowledge that you have the upper hand from a political standpoint. I still think you have her best interests at heart, so let her decide or we could all part ways seperately if that is what she wishes. Agreed?"

Jon Sanglet smiled. "Agreed, the lady chooses." He said firmly.

Bronwen thought for a moment. "Then I choose for you both to escort me back to the palace." She said quietly.

Seth smiled and bowed lowly and said,"Then It would be my pleasure to escort you to the palace." He wasn't sure if the Earl would report this kiss or not. He prayed that he wouldn't. He went over and got his armor and sword back on. He then got back onto his horse while getting Bronwen's and taking it over to her. He held the reigns so as to help steady the horse while she got on.

The Earl stepped smoothly between them and lifted the lady into the saddle. He then kissed her fingers with gentleness. "A rose still blooms in the heart of disaster." He said quietly, causing the lady to blush. The Earl stepped back so that Seth could give her the reins. "You two go ahead, my horse is close by, I will catch up." He said.

Seth nodded to the Earl and looked to Bronwen and siad,"Then let us be off." Once thye were out fo earshot Seth looked ot Brownen and said,"I am sorry to of done that to you and put us in this predicament."

"I am sorry as well. I had forgotten the Earl's intentions. He left so suddenly after his declaration and I have heard not a word. I - I thought he had changed his mind." She said with confusion and worry.

"We should have that cleared up before we move any further then. I love you very much m'lady Bronwen."He said honestly.

"I know. I also know that the Earl is not someone my family will slight without thought." She said worriedly. She did not mention her own feelings.

"What do you feel?" He asked wanting to know. He also said,"If you do not want ot be with him then tell your father, I am sure he would understand."

She was saved a reply by the arrival of the Earl. Polite conversation and inquires were the topic of the ride back. Once inside the castle gates, she dismounted and giving a quick curtsey to the two gentleman, fled back into the castle. She was going to find her mother.

Jon casually dismounted and tossed his reins to a stablelad. "McCullen, we need to speak."

Seth dismounted and said,"Alright. Privately I presume?"He was going to be as gentlemanly as possable, but he as in no way going to lie.

"Aye, let us go to the main hall and grab a tankard." The Earl led the way not even acknowledging the lower peerage that he passed. He sat down at a long table in the main hall and signaled a serving woman to bring two tankards. He looked up as Seth set down. "Well fought on the battle fields lad."

Seth nodded and said,"Thank you sir. You were there as well and survived, so I am sure you fought equally as hard."

"Aye, I killed their blasted general." He said inspecting his nails. "But the real reason with which we speak. You need to take a trip." He said politely.

"Excuse me,"He asked wondering if he was telling him to leave for good or what.

"I am afraid you will not get the lady's hand. It is promised to me. And I do not wish to harm a nice lad like yourself. I am sure I can get you a knighthood in a neighboring shire if you wish." He said loooking up at the obstacle to his plans

Seth boldly said,"I do believe knighthood would be a great honor, but not so great as the princess's hand. I am afraid I will not leave and that I will fight if necessary for the one I love."He had no intention of backing down either.

Jon raised an eyebrow. "A challenge. I like it. However, what can you truly offer the lass compared to the life she currently lives?"

"I believe true love,"he said boldly.

Jon scoffed. "First, I have affection for the lass as well. Secondly, true love will not save her lovely hands from toil nor put food on your children's table."

"Love will be enough and i will be able to do those things as well. I will do my best to keep her from having to work very much. I will work every hour of the day if that will save her from being uncomfortable,"he said truthfully.

Jon shook his head at the lad's naivety. "Do you really think she will last five minutes in a provincial life? Watch her for a few days. See how much she truly knows how to do for herself?"

"Then I will teach her or do all I can myself. I am not an idiot. Love finds a way and I know ours will."He said eyes blazing and trying to get this guy to shove off or challenge him to a fight he would surely lose.

"Oh you are an idiot, but then, what did I expect of a peasant guard. Good luck to, I am sure the better man will truly win." He chuckled and doffed his cape.

"Yes I will win,"he said smirking. "You talk about her as if she's prize. I love her and want the best for her and I will do my best to do that for her."

"Oh, she is a treasure. And I play for keeps. Good day lad." The Earl swept from his presence, leaving the man to his cups.

Seth knew that he had to make sure of the princesses heart before he asked for her hand. He loved her, but had to make sure her feelings hadn't changed.