The Lady Wounded

[strongjustice]

Healing would be a long time coming… the war would come and go… still Jonathan would remain at her side… Lady Aislin continued to take a pure interest in healing this wounded woman… at least until she would be able to hold her own in a fight for her life. The woman named Lady Kaelyn Uruqhart had been too busy to visit as Lady Aislin requested… but that mattered not to the loyal young man.

He and Lady Anwen had lived thru the attack upon Turas Lan, the Infirmary virtually untouched by Lord Maubrey’s weapons. But the death and mayhem had not… the floors stained with the blood of Skye’s people… Jonathan had even offered his help in the cleanup… He was not liked for where wence he came… but neither was he molested because of his affiliations… he was a man, without a country…without a Lord… only a lady to claim him… the Lady Anwen Maubrey…

By her side he remained… thru all… His silence would pay off in the end… he was not the one to tell Lady Anwen her husband was wounded, missing, and branded a traitor, wanted for crimes against the state.

Her body slowly healed and she had still not awaked since the event that had brought her here. Everyday the healers came and tended her and informed Jonathan of her progress... though they did warn him that her outcome from being unconscious so long was uncertain.

Bruises were fading as were the wounds... though she would have several more scars and she would have to work hard to regain the full use of her right arm which was horribly injured in the attack. Her breathing was even and the fever seems to have subsided for now... another good sign right?

"Arkrandas minet uri' beght. ( I want to go home)" came the foreign words once more. Why was no one answering her and why could she not wake up? Her mind raced and her heart began to beat faster, she could not understand. She could hear people talking... the language strange and they sounded so far away. Slowly she opened her eyes and blinked to focus... things were blurry but she could tell it was night. It was dark in the room except for the dim light from flickering candles was all that illuminated the room. She looked around and saw a large figure standing by the window... but her vision was still blurry to make out details. "Orisshta Belah Vo( water.... please)?" she asked in a voice that was a whisper. She was thirsty but moving did not seem possible for she felt so damn weak... not like her at all or was it? She could not remember anything, her mind a blank slate... no details... nothing. She waited to see if the figure heard her?

Aislin had been unable to get to the Infirmary when the war broke out, literally in Turas Lan. Trapped within the castle she had been at, she was glad to see that the Infirmary was among the very few things left untouched when it came to it's outer shell. The inside, would see all the horrors of the city, from bodies, to those still screaming out in pain. Secretly, a few less mangled English bodies had been pulled into the Infirmary and vanished before the fires were taken to them to send their ashes scattered out back. Dressed in dark brown attire, she was neither mourning, nor made to look noble, for she knew the next few days, she would have to work hard to help heal those that had a chance. Among them, was the lady she had been tending for a while now.

A hand reached up to the door of the private room in the north east wing. There were not many here yet, but it would soon be filling up. Upon opening it, she saw the Lord off to the side and near the window, while the woman looked to be awake. Those strange words came out again and while Aislin did not know the language, she was sure the woman did not feel any better. Boots clicked against the floor as she moved to the opposite side, leaving the Lord to come at the one he was closer to. More candles were lit to brighten the room up, before Aislin moved towards Lady Anwen and leaned over to hold a candle to her eyes. Not close enough to burn, but she wanted to see how awake the lady was. ``No one speaks her language, yet ye say ye have served her for some time? How is it that ye nay speak it? We will nay find out how she is doing, unless we can understand her. It be like treating a animal. They can nay tell ye how they are doing, which can be vital.`` Pausing in her words, she looked towards him. ``Have ye had food? Go to the door and ask the attendant there to get ye some food and the lady some beef broth. She will need what strength we can put into her body.``

She waited and looked down to the woman to pull away the candle from her eyes, before standing up. When Jonathan came back, Aislin sighed. ``Ah heard that ye helped clean up and temporary took the jobs of an attendant to help. Thank ye, ah know it was nay easy to do, with so many treating ye as if it were all yer fault.``

“Yes M’Lady… I have served Lady Anwen since after the first month after she had arrived. I have never heard her, nor anyone else that speaks such a language…” Jonathan looks down at his feet. “My apologies M’Lady, but I do not understand where, or how, she learned such.” He continues to look at the floor… “Nay M’Lady, I fear my hunger is outlasted by my concern for lady Anwen…” but he turns for the door to get the attendants attention for his Lady’s broth.

“Tis nothing M’Lady… I am but an attendant back home… I was recruited by Lord Maubrey to serve in the army but my arms are too weak to truly fight a battle… self-defense yes…” he shrugs. “Aye, many feel that Skye’s predicament is mine… but I am but a follower… The only thing I am concerned with is Lady Anwen and her health”. Unconsciously, his hand fell to Anwen’s, and he automatically held her hand in his.

Anwen squeezed her eyes closed in a feeble attempt to clear her vision, and sit up, pain lanced through her making her hiss softly. A large warm hand now held her own gently... she opened her eyes once more when she heard a woman's voice. Her brain tried to assimilate the language... tried to make it make sense in her confusion... in her mind the words translated but now clearly enough to completely understand them.

Her mind was in a her past.... another life it would seem. The language she spoke as old as time... Were there none here who could understand her? Why did they look so concerned? Why did she feel so much pain?

"Moriad inquira heshin et(Where am I)?" she asked softly tongue licking dry lips as she tried to think of how to communicate with them apparently they did not understand her, for both turned to look at her.

Kae had been on her way to see Aislin when the battle at Turas Lan began, she had fought the English and survived as many others had. The honor ceremony over it was now time to heed the summons of the Lady Healer... mounted on her horse she rode for the infirmary. Once outside she dismounted handed the reins to a small boy smiling handing him a few silver coins "Take him to the stables and see he is fed well and brushed down and when I come to get him I will give you three more." she said ruffling his hair.

With a heavy heart and mind Kae entered the wards... she was wearing her cloak with the hood up covering her face as Aislin had instructed... and this made Kae wonder as to the reason... soon she would find out. Kae was wearing beneath the cloak her usual garb... black leather pants, a white tunic shirt that laced in the front, knee high black boots that bore the spurs of her knighthood.

She looked around and seeing a young man cleaning she waved him over "I need to speak with either the Lady Aislin or Roac... tell them Kaelyn is here but make sure to talk to no one else ye hear." she spoke softly and waited for him to acknowledge he understood. He nodded and set off to find the ones asked for.

Aislin had asked that she be concealed and speak to no one but her or Roac.... not like Aislin to be so mysterious so there had to be a good reason. Kae moved to a window to look out at a small garden while she waited.

Because Jonathan had not known the language, that put a slight damper on finding out if Anwen was giving any vital information. ``That be fine Jonathan. Ye know as much as we do, there be no shame in that. We have all been in a place where we did nay agree with whom we followed, but did it any way, because we be loyal. No ruler, is pure to the deepest part of themselves. We be all human, with flaws. Lady Anwen's health be a good place for ye to remain worried over.``

When Anwen passed out once more, Aislin and another staff member went to work, redressing her wounds, checking her skin, feet, hands and such to make sure she was not suffering a serious infection. Some blood had been taken and mixed with herbs to test her health. many methods were used and Aislin was not adverse to doing what ever she could to make sure the lady would indeed heal. Broth had been given to her at one point, even as she swallowed and choked when she was sleeping, her body took in most of it. One wound, had become inflamed over the passing days, which had Aislin drain it by stabbing deep into it's core and removing the puss from inside before spreading more salve on it.

Aislin had left Anwen once more in the care of Jonathan when a attendant had come to tell her that the person she requested was here. Moving towards the end of the hall way, she waited for the attendant to bring the woman to her, before she saw Kaelyn's eyes around the cloth that covered her face. Excusing the attendant, it left them both alone. Aislin greeted her friend with a slight nod of her narrow chin, before waving her hand towards the hallway, so the woman would walk by her side.

``Thank ye for coming as fast as ye could. Ah know with what happened here, it be hard to get through. Ah have asked ye to come, because ah find there is a curious event here. Ah need yer help.`` Aislin paused at the closed door and looked towards Kaelyn, having not yet to open it. ``Lady Anwen be secretly in my care. Ah am nay letting it widely known that she be here, though Bess and Adam are aware. When ah treated ye, so long ago in the Highlands, ye spoke a strange language, one that ah never heard. Anwen, now speaks that same language and ah need yer help to speak to her and tell me what she be saying.``

Kae as well nodded to the attendant as they departed and easily fell into step with Aislin as she began to walk down the hall. It struck her as odd for Aislin had never summoned the warrior ranger before and Kae was most curious as to the why of it now. "I am sorry I could not come sooner, but with recent personal losses and the battle with the English. You know I will help however I can my friend." She said as she kept her stride matched to that of her friends. As Aislin spoke the name Maubrey... Kae looked at her shocked to know that the woman was here and being treated by Aislin knowing that Maubrey tried to kill her husband, and took Bess and Adam's son hostage. "Why help the Maubrey woman after all that they have done.... Tis good Adam and Bess know." Kae paused as well as she listened to the rest of the situation from her friend. "I was speaking my native tongue Arganian, but I still do not understand how this Anwen would know it, but Aye I will help translate if I can." There were only a few that spoke the language mainly her knights and herself... though she had tried to teach her brother... now that had been funny due to his accent.

Kae had yet to lower the hood of her cloak and watched her friend with cool blue eyes "Take me to her and I will do what I can." She said in a cool distant tone as she raised to her full height and waited to be shown to where Anwen was.

Jonathan was standing next to the Lady Anwen when Lady Aislin and another stranger walked in. It was difficult to tell if it was a small man or a large woman under the cloak. Still, he held Anwen’s hand… his own boyish appearance was indistinguishable. Either he was an assistant, a squire, or a healer in training. Yet Jonathan was a soldier, forced into the life by his Lord. Luckily, he had not seen much combat and lucky enough to avoid dying. Now he stood next to Anwen as he caregiver.

Jonathan stepped back and bowed when Lady Aislin and the stranger walked toward Anwen’s bed. “She speaks the odd words again MiLady… I do not understand… I tried giving her water… bread… nothing, she looks wildly about and speaks the words, then passes out again… and she is very hot again…” Jonathan spoke softly, almost timidly… Courtesy and mild-mannerism was his queue actions… He was in a strange land, with all sorts of strange… yet wondrous people… but still he was concerned for his charge.

Kaelyn said not a word as Aislin opened the door to where the Maubrey woman was. She noticed the man holding her hand instantly, and watched with cool blue eyes from beneath her cloak's hood. The man seemed young but her guard was up none the less, he at first was blocking her view of Anwen. As he spoke of her 'strange words' she heard the woman speak her words sounding pain filled as she said them through clenched teeth.

"Ingruisht dorna vae cha loi ( I do not fear dying ... I fear being forgotten.)". Kae froze as she heard the words.... They seemed familiar as if someone had said them to her once a long time ago. It was then she moved from behind Aislin and when her eyes rested on Lady Maubrey... She froze. Her heart began to race... and her hands balled into fists... more from sheer shock then anything. Kae could not believe she was looking into the face of her cousin Eryn... whom she thought had perished after the battle with the Kievan Rus guards back in Inverness when she helped to free her brother Dmitrii.

Kae flung the hood from her head and rushed to the bed practically knocking the man out of the way as she sat on the bed. "Duisht qrvak lorva froikt mien." Kae whispered as she reached to touch the woman' face with hands that shook fiercely... then stopped, not believing she was seeing as she was.

Quickly collecting herself she turned to Aislin and the man "She says she does not fear dying... she fears being forgotten." Kae could not take much more with all that she had been through recently with losing her husband and children... Now this... Her cousin alive and going by the name Maubrey??? "I told her she would not die.... That she is safe here."

Kae had to get out of here, she needed air. She stood quickly and when she did the room swirled; she grabbed the bed to steady herself... she closed her eyes a moment. "Aislin... This woman... is.... my... cousin... Eryn... I know not how she is involved with Maubrey, but mark my words I shall find out!"

Kae looked to her friend who would notice she was visibly pale and shaking. She turned her eyes to the man and smirked when it was obvious to both of them the uncanny resemblance the two women shared. She was shocked to her very core at what she knew about the Maubreys and the realization that her cousin was alive.

[strongjustice]

Aislin gave a soft nod to Kaelyn, knowing that there were other things going on beyond these walls. She did not need to press the woman or scold her on it taking time. War was a precarious thing at times. When they stopped at the door, Kaelyn asked a very good question. It was once, Aislin did not have an answer of her own for at the moment, or perhaps she did. “That be something hard for me to explain. It nay be out of the goodness of my heart, for ah care nothing for the woman one way or the other.” She was glad Kaelyn would help if she could and opened the door so they both could step inside.

Kaelyn's shock was not seen, for Aislin had her head to the woman. She could, however, watch the woman as she rushed off to the side of the Lady and her hood was now flung back to expose her warrior beauty. Aislin moved slower, going around to pat Jonathan on the back gently, before she went to the opposite side of where Kaelyn was kneeling at and speaking to the woman. Aislin was more worried about the woman feeling hot again. Looking to Jonathan, she watched his reaction towards Kaelyn and the lady, before looking back to Anwen again. “Jonathan, we shall have to force her to drink more herb broth. There be only few ways to stop a fever and that be the best.” Eyes turned to Kaelyn as she got up, looking visibly pale and shocked. Aislin waited for her to speak, before taking in the information. “I am glad ye have found her once more then. Ye will share this with the Duke and Duchess or nay?” Aislin wanted to know if this was information she could share as well, or if Kaelyn needed time to sort it all out before presenting it. Loyalty was always there, but when it came to family, things had to be stretched a bit from time to time. She would wait for Kaelyn's answer, before performing her next actions.

Holding her hand out for Jonathan to come closer, she grabbed the young soldier's arm and held him firmly in place by her before turning him to face her. Aislin's face always remained calm, perhaps that was what made people trust here. She was not one to bullchyt, or tell lies. “Ye say yer loyalties lie with the Lady, aye? Then if ye want me to keep her alive, ye must swear that no information ye hear in this room will pass from yer lips to be spoken to another, nor yer fingers to be written to another, nor sent by bird or codes of any sort, nor any other trickery that has been taught to ye. Be we at a understanding? Ah trust ye Jonathan, but others do nay. Ah be the only friend ye have here at this moment and time, do nay lose that in me, or ye will truly be alone and when the time comes for judging, ah'll nay speak for ye at all.” Aislin did not need to back it up with anything more then that. Jonathan had been around her enough to know that she did not show too many emotions, nor seemed to be affected at all by them.

Jonathan stood by his Lady. And when the oddly hooded woman came in, he seemed a bit wary, but stood by. And upon the woman’s hand upon his back, and the hood revealing her face, it was as if a lightning bolt had struck him. He released Anwen’s hand and took two steps backward. The resemblance was uncanny.

He was taken aback for sure… and when Aislin took him by the arm, he became a bit shaken. Her words drove deep into him, as if she had shoved a sword into his chest. His heart throbbed wildly, and he looked ot the Lady Physician… dropping to one knee, he kissed the back of her hand, his whispers of fealty wisped warm air. “I swear upon my life, MiLady… I am yers to command…” and as he rose he looked at the warrior female then to Aislin… Glancing to Anwen.

Who was this woman named Anwen? Was she born of lies and deceit? Finding out now she is not who all proclaimed her to be… though she is now married to Lord Maubrey. This poor lad was in total perplexity. Times of his life had changed in a matter of days… and now even moreso in a matter of seconds… Jonathan was sick at his stomach… his hands behind his back, he watched in utter confusion.

The golden haired warrior closed her eyes and took several deep breaths and once more composed she looked at Jonathan and Aislin. "I will speak to Adam and Bess myself on this matter... " she paused for a moment as if gathering her thoughts once more before speaking "I just need some time it is all to much to process at the moment." her voice was thick with emotion as her mind reeled with the fact that her cousin was indeed alive all this time she was believed dead. For what means or gain if any? "Aislin my dear friend, I know Bess and Adam are your family but Eryn is mine... I just need time I am aware that the sooner tis done the better for all involved." no words could have been more honestly spoken in that minute.

Turning she faced Jonathan and squared her shoulders before she spoke directly to him… "I do not know how Eryn became entangled with your Lord but mark my words I will find out and if by means unsavory heads WILL roll." she had not meant to be so harsh in her words but she was unraveling emotionally and at a fast rate to boot. Her husband and children were dead, a cousin rose from the dead and was now back in her life. How much more could she take?? Everyone including herself was about to find out!

"I thank you Sir for seeing to her care. I will post guards outside this room and one within and they shall stay at all times." she said in a voice that would say it best not to argue with her especially right now.

Kae had to smile if a only a brief second as she had watched the young man drop to a knee and swear 'fealty ' to Aislin. Kae once more stepped close to the bed and sat down... with gentle fingers she swept back a lock of Eryn's hair and spoke in the strange language that only they seemed to know. "Moriet vinya cymd strev duirik potriel( Rest and heal my cousin and know that you are loved always. I will make this right I swear it to you on my life." she the leaned over and placed a soft kiss to the bruised face of her cousin.

Standing once more she held a hand out to Aislin. "I need to go and talk with Dmitrii he deserves to know he has another member of his family lives." her voice sounded sad as she mentioned family.

"I need to speak with my knights and rangers, and get some supplies from RavensCrest. I will return in the afternoon tomorrow. For now Thprin will remain as a guard until a replacement comes later this eve. Aislin you know how to find me if I am needed sooner." she said with a small nod to the door where her white wolf Freika sat patiently watching them, silently.

Jonathan would stand by his Lady…his hand holding hers… watching the Ranger speak in the foreign tongue to his Lady kept him in confusion. Who was Anwen? How did she speak such a language? How did those of Skye know her… as if she was known as someone else…?

Jonathan listened… and looked… His attention varied from the Ranger… to Aislin… to his Lady… Silent thoughts turned to prayers… His country had been invaded… his Lord now a criminal of the Gaelic Nations… and his Lady was not who he knew her as… “O God and Heavenly Father, Grant to me the serenity of mind to accept that which cannot be changed; courage to change that which can be changed, and wisdom to know the one from the other, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.”

[Men of Skye]

Kaelyn left the infirmary with her mind all jumbled... feeling both happy and sad for as she lost one part of her family another seemed to emerge from ashes. The ride to where her men were camped was one filled with many thoughts… Eryn was alive?? How could it be for she and Dmitrii had searched long and hard and found no trace of her after they fought the Rus guards that day. Her thoughts then turned to Darius and her children... now lost forever to her. Kae held them in her heart... she felt as if she were losing her mind for sure now.

Back in the healing wards......

Anwen had been in and out of consciousness for what seemed like forever with the strange language rolling off her tongue even in her sleep... when she would talk Thorin would translate though not asked to the man he learned was Jonathan, guard of his Lady's cousin. Aislin would nod as he translated making it easier for them all to communicate with the flame haired woman. "Kerguisht merin gruid" he spoke softly to Anwen. "Though she sleeps she is asking for forgiveness... I said forgiveness need not be asked for... it is given. Rest and heal." he said looking to Jonathan. "I can teach you the language...." he offered. Thorin was loyal beyond all to Kae and her family but he would not let his guard down and become friends with those that were thought of as the enemy. There had to be a reason the Eryn married the villain Maubrey... Could she really have done what was spoken that she had?? He would not judge... not yet at least for that would be up to the Duke, Duchess, and Kaelyn.

As she slept, she healed, and Anwen was comforted by the deep timber of a voice that spoke her language... as well as the large hand that held hers. She turned when into his hand as he stroked her face.... "William......." she whispered then once more fell silent.

The Ranger Elite had made several visits to her cousin... spoke with Aislin on her condition and received reports from her knights who stood guard day in and out. Thorin approached her and smiled bowed and began to speak… "I have offered to teach Jonathan to speak our language. It will help him to understand her ... " he looked back at the man who never seemed to leave the side of his lady. "M'Lady... you need to let speak with Adam and Bess and soon... we need to know how to handle the situation we now are in here." …yep, that was Thorin straight and to the point with all matters.

Kae looked at her cousin and then back to Thorin. "Aye, you are right, though I still do not know how she came to be the Lady Maubrey... and why she does not seem to know me or any of us? Per haps Jonathan can shed some light on this for me... I will speak to him first." she said even as she began to walk toward the man in question.

"Sir, may I talk to you. It concerns my cousin and some answers that I need before reporting to the Duke and Duchess." it was not really a question for him but more of a statement if her body was any indication of her intent. Cool blue eyes looked at him and then back to the figure on the bed. Her heart seemed to break for her cousin once unmarked face now bore several scars that would be with her forever... especially the one that ran down the right side of her face.... the line a deep reddish purple as it still healed. The pain she endured made Kae almost shiver... but she herself had been through much the same when she had been captured by pirates many years ago. She absently rubbed her wrists that were covered by her vambraces but beneath were deep thick scars from her time in bondage.

She turned back to Jonathan waiting for his answer even though she had begun to walk toward a door leading to a small garden just off the ward.

Jonathan was confused by all that had occurred. Caught in the middle of such intrigue, he was becoming more skeptical of Lord William and the Lady Anwen… or whoever she was… Looking at the man named Thorin and shaking his head… “Nay MiLord… tis too much to deal with right now… I must sort this all out…”

Walking back to Anwen, his hand taking hers again… and to the amazement that struck him blindside… Thru this all, she still called out HIS name… Lord William’s name… Jonathan huffed and cursed softly… “She still calls his name…” Laying her hand upon her stomach, Jonathan wandered off… veering toward the door.

Walking to the Ranger, he bows slightly… “Aye MiLady?” He could only look at her, then back at Anwen, only mesmerized by the similarity of the two women… “How may I be of service?”

Thorin gave Jonathan a nod “Very well, you know where I am if you change your mind.” He said his voice a deep baritone as he spoke. Thorin resumed his post and vigil over the lady in the bed as he watched Kae start to leave with Jonathan behind her.

Kae had not missed the way Jonathan looked at her cousin and she had to wonder about that. She had made her way in life by reading people as well as she did the land… that is why she was the Ranger Elite… and before that a Royal Ranger for another Kingdom many years ago. Later she could piece it all together; right now she needed answers and she needed them fast for she would not be able to put off her visit to Bess and Adam much longer.

Kae walked until she came to a small secluded part of the garden and then turned to Jonathan, glacier blue eyes met his… She was doing her best to hide her emotions that were about to spill over tight control. “Sir …. I can see you care for her, but I need to know what you do about her and how she became involved with Maubrey.” The last were was hissed out as if it pained her to speak the vile man’s name aloud. Kae began to pace slowly as she spoke… “You know now that she and I are related; what I need are specifics…. and I need them now, for her life hangs by a thread right now, and this information. Let me make it clear that I cannot put off the Duke and Duchess any longer… She is a threat to them and their family.“ she paused and took a deep breath before continuing. “She is my blood but she has committed heinous crimes here and will have to atone for them, but I will try to spare her life if I can any way I can.” She looked up once more meeting his eyes… letting him see if he could that she was being brutally honest and hoping he saw the urgency of need here in this matter.

Jonathan looked to the Ranger, waiting patiently… then as she turned toward the garden, he followed closely behind. As she turned, her blue eyes, devoid of emotion bore into him making comments. Glancing away at the accusations of endearment for Anwen, he attempted, though feebly, to avoid declaring his admiration of his Lady. Then steely, he nodded. “Aye MiLady… I do admire Lady Anwen… but she is married… regardless of to whom… and I cannot, nor will not, display my affections, regardless of how much I care for her…” He paused and looked down… “I have known her for less than a season MiLady… when I was assigned to her unit, she was already married to MiLord.”

“I see the resemblance between you and Lady Anwen… but how the relation is, I do not know…” he paused again… “I know not many specifics about her and Lord William.” He shrugs… “I do not feel Lady Anwen is a threat… but yu are related to her, and know more of what has occurred here and between the Maubreys and Aberdeens, than I…” He leans against a tree.

“MiLady, I swear upon my deceased mother’s grave, I do not know what is, or has, occurred. I was a mere soldier, a guard at the Glasgow residence when I was assigned to Lady Anwen’s patrol… I know she loved Lord William, even if he was many years her senior, and was willing to give her life for his… and in retrospect, I remember him professing an undying love for her… After that, she disappeared… Later I found out she had been taken captive by a former servant and her man…” he shrugs… “Why I know not…”

Shifting his foot, he looks to the Ranger. “All I know was I was assigned to Lord Gerard’s patrol to look for the Lady Anwen… and in finding her, it was I who killed the servant…” he looks down, glancing timidly up to her… “The very first life I ever took… and it was a woman… crazed, but still a woman…” looking back down. Clearing his throat… “It was Lord William who assigned me with bringing Lady Anwen to Turas Lan… He knew the hazards of doing so, but that was minor compared to her condition at the time… I have a bit of medical training, as a squire; and I knew she was dying…”

“I respect Lady Anwen… and upon this trip here, I found myself spending every waking hour caring for her, or at least being prepared to…” He looks away and speaks softly… “Since arriving here, I found things unclear… the other side of the field so to speak… Not all is as was made to believe… What Lord William professed, was not what I found here… Yet, I had a duty…” he looks back toward the Infirmary ward, then back to the Ranger. “There was my duty… Lady Anwen… or whoever she was… is…” he shrugs. He too was being brutally honest… hoping she saw his urgency… and lack of information.

Kae appreciated his honesty though his answers to her questions were doing little in helping her cousin right now; but the just the same, he had not hesitated or tried to hide anything from her of that she was sure.

She had learned at a young age to be able to read people through body language and their words... it was a gift that had served her well over the years. "Well Sir Jonathan it seems you serve your Lady well... I hope you continue to do so." though she had no answers really she would take what she had learned and speak with Bess and Adam... maybe because of who she is they would not be too hard on Eryn... Lady Maubrey. “You helped to save her life and for that I thank you. Know if you need I have a place among my men if you so choose it. I will not judge you by the actions of your Lord or Lady." she was making a sincere offer to him, but the choice would ultimately be his and his alone.

Jonathan stood tall, his lean stature bowed deeply at the waist, his arms outstretched… “I attempt to do the right thing according to MiLady…” he rises and looks at the Ranger. “Though much I do not agree with… I, as you, are bound by a higher power, be it God, King, and our leaders… I sincerely appreciate the truest of judgment for my own actions, and not of those of another…”

"Eryn, or Anwen as you call her, was as close as a sister to me when were growing up... she loved to ride and she laughed often." Kae had no idea why she was telling him this perhaps it was because she felt as if he knew her as well as she did or had done.

He smiled at her offering of Eryn’s, or Anwen’s, past… “I do not know much of MiLady’s past, but of little I know, she does love to ride…” he frowned a bit… “But she does not laugh much anymore… except when she is with Lord William…” then he looked toward the entry door and back to Kaelyn.

He was not real comfortable talking to her about his lady but she was glad that he had though, it would hold little sway with Bess and Adam for she had done some terrible things... but Kae would continue to try and find the truth.

Back inside.....

Anwen had once more fallen asleep; past and present seemed to mingle together in fine silken threads... she had a hard time distinguishing between them. "Jonathan....." she whispered...

No one was there to hear her except Thorin... who when she spoke walked to the bed and sat on the edge... "Shhhh Portuine herian misha doru bintritha" (Rest... save your strength... for I think you will be needing it in the coming days) he softly said to her as he wiped her brow with a cool cloth.

Anwen settled a bit and relaxed into a deeper sleep, as if those words soothed her somehow.

Thorin could not help but notice the fresh but healing wounds and the one that captivated him most was the one that ran down her cheek. How had she been able to survive such torture? It struck him... Kae was about the only woman he knew with that kind of inner strength. Yet this woman of the same blood had done just that... and the Knight who kept vigil on her day and night seemed to have some feelings for her as well. What of the man she was married to??? Would he come back for his wife? What danger were those now involved with her come to? He finished wiping her brow and seeing she was breathing deeply with sleep he went back to his post at the door to wait for another to come and take over the guard shift.

A shadow moved near the garden… unseen, the man in the shadows watched, and listened, to the pair talking… Gerard had been able to make his way into the city unseen… His orders – to find Jonathan and Anwen… find out the status of his Lord’s wife, and if possible, return them to Sanctuary.

Gerard was leary of what he had now heard, but earlier conversations he had no knowledge of. Always skeptical of others, Gerard, dressed as a merchant, knew his mission… and his being a very patient man, would wait and see what transpired…

Kae listened to Jonathan and when he spoke of Anwen, chuckled and smiled though briefly. She had to wonder what had happened to her cousin that day long ago, when she disappeared without a trace. Dmitrii and her had searched for a week and found no signs of her, nor did they find her body... they left men to continue to search but they to came back with no clues as to what had taken place... Could this WIlliam have found her??

"Sir Jonathan you should return to your Lady now... I have to get my brother and then go see the Duke and Duchess." her voice was cool and distant and she looked sadder than ever. For with the news she was going to give it was not going to be received well by them... she just felt it deep within her. She watched as he slowly made his way back to path that would lead him to Anwen.

Jonathan bowed before the Ranger… “My life… and that of my Lady… is in yer hands, MiLady…” he commented… Rising, he turned and returned to the Infirmary…

Ademar came to the room he was there to relieve Thorin in the guard duties just as Kae had commanded. Thorin filled him in on the details and when Ademar saw the flame haired lady he just stared at her mouth slightly agape. "The resemblance is uncanny" he whispered more to himself than to Thorin. "Aye it is." was the reply.

Again Anwen's eyes opened and when she focused she saw the two men standing at her bedside and a new wave of panic filled her . Though her body was healing and she was able to move better, minus the fact that her arm was splinted as well as one leg, she cried out in fear. "Agrath Dragna schtoit! Jonathan! (Stay back! Jonathan!) and with that she scrambled off the bed and made it to a corner. She had crawled there like an animal that was scared there had been a small dagger left on a table near her... it had been used to cut clean bandages... now it was in her hand as she quaked in the corner.

Ademar and Thorin stood there mutely watching and trying to calm her down in the same language she was speaking Thorin knelt down but kept his distance. "We mean you no harm Lady Eryn... please put the weapon down." his voice deep but he kept it softened as to not frighten her more.

Jonathan was a bit frustrated in all this… How could he seem to screw up everything…? It seems his short life was nothing but trouble. As he walked back into the Infirmary, it seemed his life flashed before his eyes. Once he was but a hired hand to work around the Church nunnery in the town of Verisburg, in the Germanic Empire, where he was born. It was simple work for a young lad… pruning the trees, raking leaves and limbs… keeping the grounds clean. He had been on his own since the death of his parents three years before…

But as he grew from adolescence to that of a young man, life began to change… Women began to become more appealing… and apparently he had too… Soon, he found himself in predicaments that would lead him to misfortune… He was sexually enthralled with girls learning to be nuns, and even the fiancé of the town sheriff. Now that situation forced him to confront the sheriff… ending in nothing well to do…

That set him upon fleeing the Sheriff’s men and the gallows… By fate, and fate alone, he found himself in York… and employed by Lord Maubrey… not as a knight but as a weapon bearer… With unceasing pleas from Jonathan, General Gerard allowed him to train to become a knight… This too ended in disaster… for every joust he entered, he was unseated. But one redeeming quality was Jonathan’s ease in wielding a sword…

Before the Maubrey army was decimated at London Plains, and at Turas Lan, Jonathan had been assigned to Lady Anwen’s unit… an assignment that would eventually lead him to his present predicament. It had been a mere four years since he escaped Verisburg with his life… now it seemed in the balance here in Turas Lan…

As he entered the room where his Lady was, he saw her crouched in the corner, a knife in her hand. He hurried toward the corner of the room, his arms and hands outstretched… “Lady Anwen… no… please… no one will hurt you…” he slowly neared her, and crouched, showing no signs of aggressiveness… “MiLady… I have brought yu here to heal you… You have nothing to fear…” his young voice offering solace…

Kae watched as Jonathan headed back to Anwen... she left as well. How was she going to tell this to Dmitrii...? she shook her head she would just say it and then maybe together they could go see Adam and Bess.

Anwen still sat on the floor waving the dagger before her.... shaking now and sweating for the energy she was using that was still not a hundred percent yet. She met his gaze... and her was swirling with emotions she could not make sense out of. "Jonathan..." she whispered but still held them all at bay with the dagger. "Where am I?" it was if she had not known she had been speaking another language while she laid in the bed seemingly awake.

Jonathan was patient. He could see Anwen was scared and still in pain. “MiLady… tis I… Jonathan… yu are safe, I am here…” he tried to convince the frightened woman that she would be alright… “You were hurt badly… and all feared the worst MiLady…” his hands open and outstretched to show he was no threat. “Lord William tasked upon me to bring you to Turas Lan, for he feared yu might die from your injuries… He knew Lady Aislin could help yu if anyone could.…” he watched her reaction, attempting to answer her questions without too much detail. He thought her hearing his lordship’s name might soothe her, though it did leave a bad taste in his mouth.

She brought a fisted hand to her head which was now throbbing madly. "Make it stop... images... voices... too much." she pleaded. None of them would be prepared for what she was going through. The past and present seemed to be colliding within her mind "Shpenta magraien dorj.( too much cannot think... it hurts)" she cried but still brandishing the blade. It was obvious she was scared and something was very wrong.

Patience was a virtue, or so many had stated; but he wanted to help Anwen…Eryn… whichever one she really was… He knew not what was happening to her. Would she harm herself? Or someone else? He would waddle a step at a time, attempting to get closer to her. “MiLady, please put the knife down… I will get someone to help you… Lord William would not want it this way … MiLady please…” he attempted to bargain, then plead with her.

Was it too late to save her mind or would things fall into place for the flame haired warrior known as Anwen Maubrey???

In position. Deep breath. His hands were shaking at the thought of what could happen. Anwen grabbed her head in pain and when she did, he sprang upon her. Knocking her backwards… his weight upon her. His hands were wrestling the knife from her. Truthfully, this hurt him more than it did his Lady, but it appeared death-defying.

Slashes? A few, but none cut the skin, only material… Finally, he was able to get the knife away, tossing it across the room where a frightened attendant picked it up. His lithe frame appeared skinny, but his muscles were young and strong; and he was able to restrain the weakened Anwen. Lying atop her, he glanced down… “Please calm down MiLady… I pray someday yu shall forgive me.” He said in a mere whisper. His face close to hers, his weight holding her down.

He always… ever since seeing her nude in a cold stream many months ago, wanted to lie atop Anwen, but not like this. Once she resisted no more, he released her and helped her up… only for her to fall limp into his arms. Picking her up, he carried her to the bed once more where she lie unconscious again.

Kae had not even stopped to tell her men where she was going ... she just hoped Jonathan would do so. Mounted she rode straight to Dmitrii's home from there she would go see Adam and Bess.

Anwen listened to Jonathan as he spoke though she was trying to her mind together... then he rushed her. They struggled briefly and he disarmed her "William??" she sounded confused like she had not heard the name before. "I forgive you Jonathan." she whispered weakly; then as he drew her up to stand the room spun wildly and went black. She felt strong arms gather her up and carry her.

Jonathan’s confusion was evident upon his face as he scooped up Anwen. Did she not remember Lord William? What was occurring in her mind? Why was Lady Anwen so bewildered? Forgiveness offered and was accepted… and he smiled, though she had passed out again. He carried her back to the bed.

Thorin and Ademar watched as Jonathan had bravely managed to disarm his lady... they had thought to do so but also did not want to hurt her more. Thorin went to get a healer as Ademar went to ready the bed for Jonathan to lay the limp form of his lady within it once more. "What in the hell just happened?" he asked. "She woke and just seemed to lose it...we did nothing to her.... made no move or threats?" he was confused and concerned.

What was happening to the young woman?? She seemed to be healing. Then she woke and did not know anything? Yet she knew well how to handle a blade to keep all away. It was impressive to say the least. The only one to get through to her was a young knight...hmmmm??

Her body was healing... but would her mind be lost??

Jonathan gently laid Anwen upon the bed… his hand patting hers as he rearranged her position to one more comfortable. He overheard Thorin and Ademar and saw their assistance…with a soft “Thank you” for their support. “MiLords… Lady Kaelyn is heading to her brother’s to discuss this situation with him, and then on to the Mo’r Traith and his wife to tell them… I am unsure if she is traveling alone or not…”

He looked a bit concerned for his, and Anwen’s, fate with that information. Still, he remained by her side. Her bruises were still a bright purple, thought the cuts were scabbing over. It had been weeks since they had arrived and most of the people that knew of their location had not reacted toward them, save the usual concern of enemy in the home-station. But Jonathan did not consider himself an enemy to Skye… he was simply a guardian for his charge.

Time and time again, the shadow would retreat… and return… and retreat. Day after day, he would watch. Gerard was a patient man… he had to be, to stand by Lord William all these years. With no family of his own, save his wife, he had been a knight all his life, in service of Lord William. Now he was in enemy territory, at the behest of his Lord. Just in case, he wore the robes of a merchant whist upon this mission, though his skills as a knight would prevail, should the need be. He watched young Jonathan with curiosity, and how he administered her care. Even more curious was the occurrence he witnessed regarding Anwen.

Kae was indeed traveling alone to Dmitrii's... she did not fear for she could care for herself...though with her mind whirling as it was she was doubting herself right now.

Anwen was once more blissfully unaware of her surroundings and except for the occasional whisper of names she remained thusly for another two days.

She woke slowly, sore and dazed to see a figure with his head bent and holding her hand "Jonathan??" she looked around and once more could not understand why she could remember his name and not much else. "I feel as though I am losing my mind... images of people and places... things I cannot recall in detail." she sounded so scared and frail. Her mind was a blur of events and places.

Jonathan squeezed Anwen’s hand… “MiLady… tis I…” and offered her a big smile. “You have been thru a terrible ordeal MiLady…” his hand patting hers. “And we have been caring for you for weeks now. Lady Aislin was here caring for you, until she was called away back to Eohmark.”

Two guards were in the room speaking in tones that she was barely able to make out "Crisht umagi ona frey...( Speak so we he can hear you as well)" she said without batting an eye as she looked at them.

He too had hard the guards speaking in that odd language. And then, to his surprise, she spoke it too…. And she was conscious this time. Looking to her, he spoke softly. “MiLady, in your delirium, you began to speak that odd language. Lady Aislin brought a Ranger, a Lady Kaelyn, here and conversed with you… and she seemed distraught at yer presence in Turas Lan. Now she seeks out the Mo’r Triath to inform him of yer presence here.” He knew it was much to concern her with, but he knew not how long she would be cognizant.

Leaning down closer to her and whispered. “I have not been able to get word of your progress back to Lord William. Last I heard he was defeated in battle against his son and now he has a price upon his head. Presently, I am unsure of his whereabouts.”

Quickly she placed a hand to her head and cried out... it felt as if her head were being ripped from her shoulders. The pain intense... "Arggggg.... Jonathan.... please... help....me.." tears fell from her eyes as all looked at her not sure what to do or how to help.

Jonathan’s face twisted in concern as her hand ripped from his gentle grasp. Her scream of pain frightened him and he took her into his arms, frantically looking around for someone to help. Fright coursed thru him as he wondered if his words of their current situation caused her such pain.

The figure would not be seen for his stealth and concealment until such time as he would need to reveal himself.

Shadows… a busy location… and concerns with others beside himself offered concealment for the man that lurked. He could watch but not hear, especially when he could, he could not understand the odd words. The information he gathered would probably rile Lord William and wondered if his oldest friend and Lord would be conducive to any understanding of what was going on. How would he explain the fact that his wife was in the arms of another man, the other man being his charge of her care… her in pain and speaking a language he did not know nor understand? He would wait a bit more, but the longer he remained the more susceptible he was to discovery.

[Men of Skye]

Ademar had gone to get a healer explaining that the Lady was saying it hurt badly. With a nod, the healer went to get some herbs to help.

Anwen was now once more sleeping after having collapsed in Jonathan's arms after her last bout of head pain. Her body limp and pale...

Jonathan had hefted Anwen in his arms and carried her back to the bed, just as healers came to look after her as beckoned call. He stood back and let them to do their jobs. “Will MiLady be alright…? “ he inquired as they turned and nodded at his request.

Thorin kept his vigil and felt bad for the young knight... the look on his face when she screamed in pain.He shook his head... he remember his lady having gone through much the same thing.... he rubbed his chin... Could she be warring with memories both new and old as his lady had?? When Kaelyn returned, he would speak to her… maybe she would be able to help?

He saw the guards, he saw the healers… and he saw Jonathan and Anwen. Soon he would disappear into the darkness of night and send word back to Lord Wiliam.

Kae needed to stop at her home to gather a few things... yet she did not want to cross the threshold… it contained too many memories. She needed to get her things and ride the rest of the way to her brother's home... he would know the best way to handle this... her emotions were to unstable to make a decision like this right now. That is why she had been laying low, so to speak, after the war with the English. She had lost her husband; her son and daughter were dead as well... and now a cousin she had thought long dead was here in Skye??!! Emotional overload to say the least... Dmitrii though, as hotheaded as she at times, right now was the only one she trusted.

Dmitrii had returned from the festivities at the rendering of the new gate the lePowers had constructed. He and Aegraine had been drinking heavily and now retired to Lake Manor, the Zurban home. Aegraine now asleep in her room next to his, he had fallen soundly asleep. But not before thinking of introducing Aegraine as his betrothed to Kaelyn… should she ever visit again. Ae and Kaelyn knew one another from the war, and their positions in the Griffin Army, but not as family… Next would come the next step – introducing his sister to his future bride.

Kae had left her lands by dawn the following day after she had arrived her men were in their camp she had sent word that she was headed to her brother’s manor home and would return as soon as possible. She had been pushing herself hard these past weeks and would continue to do so it was the only way she could deal with her losses. She took all assignments that came about... no matter how dangerous… lately she had been patrolling the farthest reaches of Skye’s territories and then came back to find her cousin still lived? Her mind whirled with it all… Baran and she had just crested the small rise that would take them to Lake Manor… the sun had yet to break its zenith into the Skye as the grey color of dawn filled it. She rubbed her eyes and stretched her neck from side to side and pushed onward soon she would see her brother and all might be well after.

Finally just crossing the bridge into the Manor the guards opened the gate for recognizing her and the standard carried. Once in the bailey she dismounted and spoke to a guard... they laughed at seeing each other again and then she climbed the stairs to his home, where she was met at the door by his man servant. "Good day... is your Lord awake?" she asked as she followed the man into a small receiving room. "I will get him right away M'Lady." the servant said and turned leaving her alone in the quiet of the room.

She strode to the window...and looked as out as she always did when she came to visit. Her sword at her hip... she was dressed in all black so unusual for her... black from head to toe... shirt, leather pants, and boots. Her hair unbound except for two braids at either side of her face. The morning sun was just now above the horizon casting its glow over the earth... she began to pace back and forth before the large window.

She looked tired and thin... as if not sleeping or eating well, but none the less she was a beauty to those that knew her. Soon he would come and they would talk and figure out what to do and how to handle the situation she now faced.

“Morning already?” he inquired as Julian woke him far too early after a hangover… “Aye MiLord… yae ‘ave a guest this morn… ‘n the waitin’ room…” Julian replied. Dmitrii rubbed his eyes and stood, slipping on a shirt and trousers. “Julian, who is important enough to wake me so early?” He spoke softly, then took a peek in Aegraine’s room to find her fast sleep. Julian did not answer, nor say Who was there… he could be evil like that sometimes. Turning to the servant, “Announce that I am coming… just let me wash my face…” Julian just smirked and waited outside… moments later, Dmitrii would exit his room.

Trodding down the hallway, his hand went to his curly-haired head. “You are evil Julian, yu know that?” Julian smirked and patted his Lord’s back ever so casual. “Keeps yae on yaer toes MiLord…” then both men laughed as they entered the waiting room.

There before him, looking out the window was his sister… dressed in her usual dark attire, definitively highlighted by the bright colors of the waiting room. “Kaelyn, my dearest sister… what brings yu here so early…?” His eyes widening in joyous occasion of her visit… his arms outstretched toward her. “It is so grand to see you… How have yu been?” As they neared, she could smell burnt wood from the fires of last eve, and the distinct odor of alcohol.

Kaelyn turned around slowly as she heard the door open and a slow smile curved her rose colored lips as she looked at her brother. He looked disheveled and not fully awake and for that she would apologize. "Early?? I guess it is but the sun has more than broke the horizon you slugabed." she said teasing softly as she walked to him with her arms extended for a hug. She looked at him with sad and haunted eyes but they had long since lost their sparkle. "Partying the night away Dmi??" once more she teased, though when he looked into her eyes he would see a maelstrom of emotions. So turbulent were they it was taking every bit of her inner strength to keep them controlled.

Patting her back then releasing her, smiling… Dmitrii looked at her. “Today, I shall allowed you to call me slugabed… for I feel worse…” he chuckled.

Shrugging at his question of how she was doing "I am doing as well as can be... I attend my duties and find other tasks to occupy myself with... and they tend to keep me away." again being honest... though she would not tell him that she was not eating or sleeping much... for when she closed her eyes she saw them... Darius, Garet and Jelani, and her heart clenched. She would not tell him of the day she had raced beyond the walls of the Castle when it was being attacked to save a child and had been injured and nearly died... but thanks to a knight named Alasdair, she had survived. It was not his burden to bear but hers alone as was her grief. It had been months now and it felt like yesterday, in fact, her short journey to RavensCrest had been the first really since learning her husband and children were dead.

Then he saw her eyes, the drawn look upon her face. His steel grey eyes darkened a bit… “Liar… Yu look worse than I feel Kaelyn… You have not been sleeping, nor eating, as it appears…” his brotherly ass-chewing was simple…direct, and not prolonged.

"I have news... that is of the utmost import and need advice… and you at my side when I go to Adam and Bess about it." she was putting it all on the line. She indeed smelled the burnt wood and alcohol, and it made her smile a little broader...

He listened and nodded… “Yu seek sage advice, but I can only offer brotherly counsel…” The confused look enveloped his facial features. “To the Mo’r Triath and his better half? What could be so urgent?”

There was someone come to visit and here was Aegraine, a sight, like something the cat dragged home. Her hair hung billowing, long and curly, uncombed about a pale face, squinting her eyes to block out as much sun as she could. Bare feet showed from under her white nightgown which fell off one shoulder; the other covered with that gray shawl. She required support of a rail or wall to steady her, for the room seemed to spin a little, even now. "Pardon my attire," Ae really had no other costume choices this morning, " but I had a rather rough night last night." It was then she recognized Kae, the woman who came with bow and fire arrows to help with the defense of Turas Lan at the gates.

"Dmitrii.... Eryn lives... our cousin... she is known now as.... Lady.... Lady Maubrey." she choked out still not wanting to believe her cousin was in cahoots with that vile man and all his doings. No more had she said the words than the door opened once more and she saw Ae.

“Eryn lives…” the confused look broadened. “Sto…? Sto ga va rit? [what? What are you saying?]” he turned away from her and looked at the hearth, his hand upon the mantel. “Pez dyetz… Maubrey? Kak de la ish? [explicative… Maubrey? How did that happen?]” … angered by Maubrey’s name even mentioned, especially when it involved family. His fingers drummed upon the stone mantel, his thoughts reflecting back to the day Eryn supposedly died. With a return to the present, he canted his head toward Kaelyn. “Of course, I will accompany you…” he paused. “Have yu seen Eryn? Is she well?”

Some of their words she understood. "What" and "Maubrey" stood out as flags, it could not be good if Maubrey had anything to do with it...and Eryn. Surely she heard this wrong but Ae did not ask. It was not her family, yet.[/font][/color]

With a look of cool surprise she looked from Ae back to her brother... she was as stoic and serious as ever and probably more so right now. As Ae spoke she gave a graceful nod of her head, "Lady Aegraine....Good morning, and it is I who should apologize for coming so early as Dmitrii has been so inclined to remind me, … My apologies to you both... Dmitrii when you have time we can talk... I am sorry for the intrusion."

“No apologies necessary my sister. And tis no intrusion… yu are welcomed here regardless the reason… but…” he paused… Then he told Kaelyn of his betrothal to Aegraine lePower.

“We can speak now… Aegraine will be family, and should know of the dysfunctality of it all…” he offered a smile to Aegraine. Besides, he had just fought a brutal joust for her honor.

"All families have some disturbing times, I know that first hand, from my own." She looked up at Dmitrii, her hero in addition to what she already thought of him. Her voice was kind and sympathetic. Now was the time for Ae to be a good listener.[/font][/color]

Kae had been taken aback by the fact that he had called her a liar as he looked at her and she knew he was right. "Dmi there is no need to worry ... " she had said it to him in his native tongue. He knew her better than she thought, but who could blame her after all she had been through these last few months. Losing her twins and her husband all within days??

As he asked if Eryn lived she just nodded... and grimaced as he used the explicatives that she was used to hearing from him. He had taken the time long ago to teach her Russian and she had taught him Arganian... so she knew damn well what he was saying and none was joyous in regards to Maubrey. "I know not how it happened brother, only that it did. I have seen her... she was brought here from a recent encounter with one that had been torturing her... and before you ask, it was not Maubrey, but another and a woman according to the Jonathan, a young knight who is charged with her care." she remained calm cool and collected except for under the surface was a raging fury that years of training had taught her to hide... well except from maybe her brother who knew her so well.

She watched as he drummed his fingers on the mantel her own fingers gripping and releasing the hilt of the sword at her hip. "Thank you brother... I am not sure how they will take this news that their enemy's wife is our blood kin... I will do what I have to... for all involved." said so matter-of-fact like the battle hardened warrior and ruler she was.

Her attention once more going to Ae... she offered a smile that she hoped would be taken as friendly... though not many would use the word to describe... the Ranger Elite and Knight.

"Dmitrii you know I love you..." she had walked over as she spoke and ruffled his curly hair and gave him a smile as he told her that he and Aegraine were betrothed. She swallowed hard. "I am happy for you both and congratulations... if I can do anything let me know?"

Kae gave Ae another smile as she spoke and shook her head. "Our family it seems has had more than its fair share... I am truly happy." though inside she was dying a bit more and more from her own grief and responsibilities, around Turas Lan and Skye.... not to mention back in her homeland where she was Queen. "Dmi as soon as you are ready I would like to see Bess and Adam…" yep she was using their given names for they had said long ago there was no need to be formal amongst friends and kin of the heart and Bess was like a sister to Kae.

"Thorin and Ademar are keeping guard over Eryn and Jonathan... I should head back." she turned and her legs bowed, and she stumbled, she let out a few colorful curses in her native language as she used the back of a chair to steady herself.

Dmitrii listened to the words his sister spoke about their cousin Eryn. If one knew him, they would notice the slight movement of the beard… that could only mean that he was grinding his teeth in anger. The Maubreys had once again entered their lives and disrupted it… Argania was trying to recuperate from the throes of civil unrest… Skye had established her place in the world… and Kaelyn and he had lost much to these embattlements.

Kaelyn’s only consolation to all that had happened was Dmitrii and her work. The only consolation for Dmitrii was his sister and Aegraine. “Kaelyn… I can be in Turas Lan by tomorrow evening. I know yu must go back and Ae and I have unfinished business here, then we shall be there tomorrow before nightfall.” He looked at Aegraine not even giving her a chance to say no to the journey.

Ae silently nodded her head in agreement to what Dmitrii told his sister about them returning to Turas Lan. Amid the whirlwind of loss that seemed to spin about that name "Maubrey" in recent times, one good thing occurred. Dmitrii and Kaelyn's cousin was alive and in Turas Lan.

Meanwhile, back at the Infirmary…

Gerard, after completion his assignment, had made his way out of the building, and off the grounds without being seen. In three days time, he would be at Sanctuary reporting to Lord William. And oh what a tale he would have to report ! Now, if he could just keep his head after Lord William explodes.

Jonathan stood over Anwen as he had for weeks now. How could he come to favor such a woman… a woman with what appears to be two different sides of her? The two were almost the same age… same height… save she was a tadbit shorter than he. Apparently, she was not the person everyone knew her to be… but some lost cousin of the Skye Ranger Elite. Regardless, he was charged with her well-being, and it was not up to him to alter that charge… but the emotions were his own… and they were confused.

Anwen woke a few times during the night but not for long. By the time morning came she was standing looking out the window...past and present seemed to collide in her mind yet she could not tell one from another and things were not in the right place. "What is happening to me?” she said to herself out loud in a whisper. The guards were nowhere to be seen and neither was Jonathan...

Jonathan had catnapped in the chair next to Anwen’s bed. It had been days… weeks… since he last sleep nor eat well. Always late to sleep, early to rise…. Meals eaten on the move. His diligence was tearing away at his very fiber… It was upon the early growls of his stomach at dawn, that made him leave his Lady.

Seeing a cloak hanging on a hook she took it and put it on and walked out into the small garden just off her room. There was a small fountain and as she looked at her reflection in the water, "Who am I? Anwen? Eryn? I no longer know. Why cannot I remember what happened? Where is William or Gerard?" she asked the face looking up at her from the water. It did not answer her... her body ached but she was getting stronger everyday... what she really wanted was to remember... to know what happened. She looked down at her mangled hand and wondered if he would hold a sword again... then she remembered how she kept the guards at bay and smiled softly, once more she looked at her reflection and noticed the scar that ran down the left side of her face. With a shaking hand she traced it...and a flash of a woman drawing a blade down it made cheek her shudder. Who was the woman? Her throat felt tight she could almost feel a rope around it... her brows furrowed as she tried to hold onto the image and force more to come.

Jonathan returned to her bed, only to have his heart leap into his throat. Where was she? He began to look around the Infirmary, then by happenstance, looked out the window and saw her below; there in the garden, peering into the fountain.

Turning and rushing out of the building, he walked to the fountain… behind her… “MiLady… why are yu here?” He canted his head when she did not answer… “MiLady, are you alright?” Again no answer… She was too enthralled in the visions in the water to even have heard him. His hand reaches out and touches her arm from behind !!!

[Men of Skye]

She was lost in the gruesome sight of her reflection and did not hear him, but when he touched her she spun around wincing as she did. Sweat beaded on her brow as she stared wide eyed at him "Who am I?" she asked confused as she covered the scar on her face with her good hand as if to hide it now that she knew it was there, "Jonathan..." she whispered his name.

Her sudden movement, her regression, and her hiding the scar perplexed him. He stepped closer to her, pulling her hand from her face. “You are my Lady… my charge… Whether yu are Anwen Maubrey… or Eryn of Argania, I care not…” His hand caressed the side of her head, pulling her to his chest and embraced her.

She did not even know how she had gotten here in the garden... it was too much. "I cannot form a clear thought..." she looked so frightened so pale... then the guards appeared and as if an old instinct came into play she slowly reached to her hip for an unseen weapon.

She pulled from him and grasp at her hip. Immediately a hand went up toward the guards, indicating she was no harm. Looking back to her he spoke softly… “MiLady, yu have been thru much distress… tis no wonder yer health has been in jeopardy…”

"Who am I??" she asked again this time in a firmer tone. A distant image filled her mind’s eye of a man with silver hair and sea-green eyes and he was holding her in a most loving way.... then it was gone. Anwen stood and was consumed by a wave of dizziness and she stumbled backwards...

Jonathan had no time to answer, but he did catch the falling female. Scooping her into his arms, he carried her back into the Infirmary and lay her down upon her bed. Standing over her, he whispered. “I do not know Who yu are… but I do know what yu are… to me !”

Meanwhile outside of the city, the man who had followed Anwen and Jonathan was riding hard back across the land. At the rate he was riding, he would make Sanctuary in three days. His mind had three days to ponder the situation, plan the way he would introduce the news to his Lord, and be prepared for any reaction the silver-haired man would give.

Anwen had once more lost consciousness... but she had heard him… what he said and it perplexed her. Her sleep was restless faces of people floated through her mind. Her body once more took a fever just when they had all thought she was out of the danger of such. The healers could not explain what was happening to her body or her mind. She became combative at times and that presented a problem for no one really wanted to restrain her with bindings after what she had been through, but if she continued to thrash about they just might have to... for their sakes and her own.

A sliver haired man with sea-green eyes made more than one appearance in her dreams... speaking word of love and at times fighting with her. Then Jonathan's face would be there confused and handsome twisted in a mask of unknowing yet being dutiful. Who was she and what the hell was going on with her??

~---------~

Two whole days had passed since Anwen had passed into unconsciousness. This lack of consciousness concerned Jonathan and healers alike. They could not find anything strictly physical that could be causing her unconsciousness… lest it was deep inside the brain. No one was experienced enough to consider emotional trauma…

Jonathan was going thru his own emotional trauma, as he had fallen in love with a woman, already married… yet he was responsible for her well-being. He had done all he could to save Anwen… or Eryn… Now her willingness to relive Lord William caused his stress. A slow burn of hatred now began to boil inside him for the man who would care for his own life than hers.

Gerard had ridden two horses til they almost died… now he was closer to killing a third horse than Sanctuary; but this would not sway him from reporting what he had heard and seen. Ten miles from Sanctuary, the horse toppled forward, its knees buckling from wear and tear from such a harsh ride.

Cursing at himself and the dead horse, he began to walk… though with a slight limp from a bruised knee. Now nightfall was approaching… and in the distance was the sounds of horses nearing his location. Gerard showed no fear of discovery, as he knew William had Sanctuary patrolled… soon he would be picked up and delivered to his Lord… there he would make his report of Anwen and Jonathan.

How much time had passed Anwen knew not, but she woke on the third morning dazed and confused... and stressed more than normal. Jonathan was there at her side at first she moved away from him... as if she did not recognize him. "Where am I??" she asked softly and then coughed her throat felt dry and raw. So many faces drifting through her mind she felt it would explode.... nothing made sense. She looked around as if scared to death....she was confused... weak... and hungry. She said nothing more as she gripped her knees and brought them to her chest making herself into a tight ball. Her injuries had healed well but still the one they could do nothing about was raw and open... her mind.

Jonathan could tell by her voice that she was in need of something to drink… He poured a tin cup of wine and held it to her lips… “Drink m’Lady… yu need to eat and drink something…” Looking to a nearby servant… “Food for the Lady and be quick about it…” He was usually meek and mild-mannered, but as the weeks of unwavering care for Lady Anwen endured, his manners had became sharp and inpatient.

“We are still in Turas Lan M’Lady… I stay the course until yu regain yer health…” he smiled as he set the cup down. “Come sit…” he urged her to a chair beside a table, the servant returning with a bowl of soup… vegetables steaming in boiled water… pieces of venison shifting in the waves of the water. “Yu must eat…I need yer strength m’Lady…” His heart pounded hard in his chest… He had said “I” not “you” … his eyes would fall away from her as his hand rubbed her back gently… lovingly… unconsciously.

[strongjustice]

Meanwhile, in the deep woods of Aosta, in Sanctuary.

The patrol surrounded the shadowed figure, and Gerard identified himself as their commander. “I must see Lord William immediately…” Given a mount, the senior knight and Lord William’s best friend mounted the horse the knight gave him… and the group rode hard to the fortified castle, known as Sanctuary…

Inside Gerard limped to the stairs and carefully made his way up… just as Lord William made his way down… “Gerard, I am glad…” see the man’s blood stained leg. “What happened my friend?” William seemed concerned yet teased him… “Yer horse throw ya?”

Gerard, despite the circumstances, nodded and smiled… Then the two men walked back down the stairs and into the large room. “MiLord… I have good news and grave news…” He continued as William canted his head… “Lady Anwen is alive still… though in poor condition… and Jonathan remains vigilant…”

“And this is grave news…” William concluded as Gerard paused…

“Nay MiLord… such news is…” he swallowed, looking around… “Yu may leave…” he said to the servants and the other guards… Then back to William… “MiLord, Lady Anwen lives… but her mind is vexed… she is remembering Eryn… and Jonathan…” he takes a drink of the wine a servant had left for the two men… “Jonathan favors MiLady…” he looks aside, then back to William. “Favoring her much more than any escort… I can see it in his eyes… He is young and influential… and she is… well, beautiful... and nay in her right mind…” There he had said it… and he could see William’s anger building.

William took the wine cup and drank its contents in entirety. “Balderdash Gerard… she wouldn’t… he wouldn't...” then as he looked at Gerard, his own mind began to doubt… Then he stood and slammed the cup into the nearby wall… “How dare she… I’ll kill that boy with my own hands…” As if he had never done that before!!

“MiLord…” Gerard spoke… then was cut off.

“Gerard… saddle my horse… we ride to Turas Lan immediately…”

“But MiLord… yu forget that yu are wanted there…”

“I can nay Gerard… I go to get my wife back…”

[Men of Skye]

Days lingered past, and Anwen slept on and off thanks to the medicine the healers had given her. They said the more rest she got may help her memory to return. Five days later she did wake and saw Jonathan sitting in a chair near her, his head laying on his folded arms which were resting on the bed beside her. She reached over and brushed a lock of hair off his face and smiled; he looked so young… so at peace... Had she ever looked that way??? Her mind was still jumbled with images of people and places... past and present, mixing and twining together... she was no longer sure which was which. What she did know was that she needed a privy and now... she slowly slipped from the bed and made her way down the short hall to the garderobe… once done, returned to her room in the ward and looked out the window and watched the sun rise.

The faint morning light streaked across the sky as if saying today was going to be a beautiful one. Suddenly she remembered a time when she had seen the sun rise and beside her had been William.... they had just made love... then he was storming out of the hall and so was she.... rain fell.... then gone… all images gone. Her heart broke... Did William even care what she was going through?? Why had no one come looking for her?? She shook her head... it was too much at once. She looked back to Jonathan and smiled... He had been here this whole time and never left her side... if things were different if she were free... foolish thoughts for her heart belonged to one man and one man only.... William Maubrey !!

In the days that followed Gerard and William rode the backroads and byways thru Italia and France. Their destination Skye… and his beloved wife… or was to merely retrieve his homemade assassin? This man was willing to risk arrest and imprisonment for this woman. This was a testimony to his efforts… but to what length was his efforts?

Gerard tried several times to convince Lord William not to venture into hostile territory… to no avail. “MiLord, why are you so set upon retrieving Lady Anwen? I have seen with my own eyes of her betrayal to you… You know if the Mo’r Triath captures you, you shall surely be put to death !!”

William’s sea-green eyes darkened and narrowed at his commander, and his friend… “Gerard, know yer place… question not my motives… for you shall have all I have, should I die… turn back now if you wish… if not, then question me not…” his voice was sharp and gruff, yet straight to the point.

“Nay MiLord… By yer side, I have always been… with God, and MiLord willing, as such I shall always remain…” Gerard spoke no further about the subject… His dark eyes watching his Lord and Commander sway in the saddle with each step of the horses.

Meanwhile, Jonathan woke to find his lady missing from her bed. His heart jumpstarted to a rapid pace… Had she gone astray again? As he wiped the sleep from his eyes, he noticed a slight breeze… and saw his Lady at a far window looking out over the bay to the East.

Walking up to her, he stood behind her a moment, not saying anything. One hand reached out to touch her shoulder, but she turned sharply to return to the bed, and in doing so, ran right into Jonathan… his arms, immediately embracing the woman.

Time seemed to slow down… to where everything was in slow motion… Face to face… eye to eye, the two stood… arms wrapped in unconscious embrace from the mild collision… Then in an instant, time resumed to normal… the embrace broken, and the two dropped their arms, and apologies were offered.

Standing there in his arms as he kept her from falling… Anwen looked him in the eye and then she let her arms fall and stepped back from him. Though it was nice to be held… it was strange as well, for it was not the arms of her husband that held her… she missed them. Her heart ached that he was not here and yet … she felt strange about that as well… her memories kept coming back and she felt that William may know more than he had said at first. If he did why would he not tell her?? What could be his reasons for this deception??? Most importantly did he even love her… as she loved him???

Looking to Jonathan “I… I am sorry Jonathan… I am a bit clumsy yet it seems.” Her voice was soft as she spoke and something flitted across her features and then was gone as quickly as it had appeared. “Has there been any word from or about William? What of Gerard??” she asked as she turned and strolled back across the room, as if it were a normal thing to ask. Nothing made sense to her… she felt as if she were two separate people in one body… sharing one mind. The name from the warrior woman echoed in her head… Eryn??? She was not that woman anymore or was she?? She felt so uncertain and lost right now and was not sure who held the answers that she needed and wanted.

She felt good in his arms, and as she slipped away from him, and he felt a suddenly disappointing void. As she spoke her apology, he blinked… “Nay MiLady… tis I who should be more careful… I know yu have been thru a great ordeal…” And her next words would drive him deeper into disappointment… “Nay MiLady… no word yet… save the fact that Lord William is a wanted criminal… a man charged with treason and crimes against the crown…”

Then, in an unconscious retaliation and embitterment of his Lord and her husband… “Sometimes MiLady, I feel as if we have been abandoned to our own accord here…” he looks away, then back to her as she turned to look at him…. “Though we are suspects and constantly watched, we are not mistreated… nor mishandled… Lady Aislin and her associates have been most helpful… and the Mo’r Triath and Mo’r Okesula have been most gracious in our freedoms…”

He so desired to lash out about Lord William and Gerard… about leaving them so far from home… apparently they have been far too busy, or did not care… Jonathan suspected the latter. But he knew how Lady Anwen felt about her husband… and he said nothing. Only mentally did he wish… no prayed, that Anwen would remember Eryn… or even forget about William… Jonathan did not care if she was Eryn… or Anwen… This lady had been good to him… and over the months they had been together… and endless nights and days he stayed by her bedside… he had grown an affection for this woman…

He has seen her smile… He had seen her vomit and sweat… He had seen her tease… He had seen her speak out deliriously with fever… He had seen her in the finest attire… and he had seen her nude… It was he who had remained… and one who had come to know her… whoever she was !!

It was her calloused, bruised, and broken hand that caressed his face in reassurance before… It was her smile that brightened a sunny day… It was the touch of his fingers against her nude form as he washed the blood away… It was his very own sword that killed her abuser…

He… none other !! Yet, it was this man… this old man… that she asked about… Was it a bit of hate that now coursed its way, or was it jealousy??? Saying nothing, he just looked at her and smiled.

[Men of Skye]

Anwen listened as he talked of how they were being treated and could hear his contempt in his voice... her lips tightened. Who the hell did he think he was speaking in that tone?? She thought to herself and then when Jonathan spoke of having heard no word, it was as if someone had flipped a switch within her and she turned to look at him... it was as if she had no idea who he was in that instant and she backed up slowly and into the wall and let herself slide down it until she was sitting on the floor.

Her face blank of all emotion and her eyes void of any spark... she rubbed her hand against her forehead... closing her eyes. Her heart began to race and a slight sheen broke out on her skin… "William??? Criminal??" she asked as if she did not know what he was speaking of. "I am Eryn daughter of Gunnar.... kin to Argania..." she sounded so confused and scared. She bent her head forward and rested it on her folded arms which lay on her raised knees.

Jonathan’s heart sank… she had slipped yet again into oblivion. Kneeling down in front of her, he caressed her arms with his hands. “Yes MiLady… I know… Lady Kaelyn was here whilst yu slept… Yu have had a bad chain of events…” Now over the past few weeks, with her slipping between personalities, he would just soothe both. Lifting her chin, he smiled and brushed back the red hair… “I have been assigned to help yu MiLady…” his voice soft and sweet… charming as he could possibly be… sometimes shifting from a young knight to a lad. “Yu shall see me every waking moment until MiLady is healed and back to normal…”

Onward tread the pair; deeper into the sojourn toward destiny… Oblivious to what was actually occurring, William and Gerard were heading across France toward a ship that would bring them to Skye… Along the while, William would formulate his own imagery of what Jonathan was doing… or working upon !!

Anwen/Eryn just sat there as he spoke softly to her and listened... "Kaelyn" she repeated the name softly. Recalling a golden haired child and woman... she had been here... had spoken to her... and yet she did not remember it at all. Jonathan was caressing her arms as he spoke and the contact seemed to soothe a worried shattered mind, slowly she raised her head and met his gaze… "Assigned to help me, but why??" she asked puzzled by his words. Her mind tried to recall all that may have happened and it was dark and blank... little flickers of images but nothing substantial. "Seeing you is the one constant I have had these past many days... weeks... months... ah hell how long have I been here?" Anwen/Eryn sounded a bit frustrated that she could not recall details of the how's and why's of her situation. When the word normal fell from his rather full lips she had to chuckle for what was that these days??? She was feeling like a storm tossed ship at sea with no direction... no purpose and damn sure no port in sight.

He avoided the ‘who’ assigning him to her… but he would offer as much explanation as he could… “Yes, Kaelyn… she was very concerned for you… and relieved you were alive… It seems that yu have been involved in plots deeper than we dare assume… and yer life was threatened, and nearly died… My assignment to you… well… it was a pleasure to be assigned… and yu have come to mean a lot to me…”

Feeling the tenderness in his caresses something inside her yearned and craved it yet another part of her despised it with a passion.... giving into a temptation greater than she knew that posed unseen dangers right now she vaulted into Jonathan's arms needing even for just a moment to feel safe and whole in the smallest of ways. Her arms wrapped about his form and she laid her head against his shoulder and let her tears fall... he was so warm and felt so solid... it was something at least to keep her mind focused on while the fragments of her life littered her mind and soul. Until they were whole again she did not know what would become of her... or him?? Neither one had a clue as to the fact that WIlliam and Gerard were on their way back to Skye.... how would that complicate things for them... more importantly for Anwen/ Eryn???

In his arms? Now he was drawn into a situation that he knew was unhealthy… but his arms wrapped around her accepting that venture. He had come to care for the lady wayyy more than he needed to. She… as Anwen… was married… but Eryn was hugging him because she knew nothing of Anwen… or so he could tell. He cared not if she was Anwen, or Eryn… but in her switching of personalities, one knew him as a guard… the other as a guardian…

He laid his head atop hers, his hand patting her back… “All will be just fine, MiLady…” Next he found himself giving her a soft kiss upon red hair. All the while, his mind was going… “Ahhh chyt…”

Two horses, tired and rode nearly to exhaustion carry their riders closer to the docks of the village of Concarneau, on the French western peninsula. The two men stepped down from their mounts and were soon met by a man wearing a blue cape and the clothing of a French merchant. A former member of the Maubrey army, now working undercover as a merchant in France, had received the missive Lord Maubrey would be arriving and had made arrangements for him to board ship at his earliest convenience…

That evening, under the cover of darkness, the two men boarded the ship. On board the merchant galley, William and Gerard changed clothes in the captain’s quarters and settled in for the five-day journey. Their destination was Turas Lan… their cover would be merchants from Naples… Turas Lan was constantly busy with merchants as now it was a hub of activity, a leader in the trade world… What better way to infiltrate an enemy?

There she was in his arms feeling safe… like a child that had a bad dream and was being consoled and comforted. Her heart skipped a small beat... strong arms held her... and she reacted as a woman would and nestled closer to him… "Do not let me go... please??" she pleaded softly as her head rested on his chest... she could hear the erratic beating of his heart. Her knees and lower legs peeked out from the long shift she was wearing... her body was trembling... but she felt safe with him... her protector.

Eryn knew nothing about Anwen and vise versa... two yet one... it must be throwing him and the healers for a loop. Ademar came in and saw the tender scene and he became perplexed how could the wife of Maubrey take the chance and be in the arms of another man… did she not know it would be a death sentence for them both?? He had heard the Man was evil to the core... something was different with her somehow?? He just could not put his finger on it yet.... he turned to speak with Thorin and talk to him about it all.

“Nay, MiLady, I shant let ye go… as long as ye want, and need, me…” truer words were never spoken. He looked behind her, his eyes looking around in a state of emotional turmoil. Anwen… Eryn… her name meant nothing, it was her… he patted her back… it was her who meant something to him. It was the protector that had fallen for his charge… dangerous territory, especially where Maubrey was concerned.

Had he seen the witness, he might have tried to explain… but what good would it have been? Certain people will make judgment disregarding the truth.

Meanwhile, on a sea not far away, a silver-haired man looked across the horizon, pondering what was to occur. Had Anwen remembered her past? Had she defected to her former self? He was a wanted man, ready to enter the gryphon’s lair to retrieve what was rightfully his, having no sense of fear nor concern of death… He was going to get his wife !! or was it his assassin he wanted?

Ademar reported to Thorin what he had seen and heard, both decided to wait and see what happened before talking to their Lady or her brother.

In his arms she felt so damn safe... she leaned more into him... his warmth surrounded her as did his arms... her face in the crook of his neck... her tears soaking his shirt... as she cried unable to keep in any longer the feelings consuming her. "Thank you..." she said and gripped him tighter and placed a small chaste kiss to his cheek... her hands resting on his chest.

Oh how he wanted to just grab her and kiss her unrelentlessly… yet all he got was a simple peck upon the cheek. All she had to do was ask… he would whisk her away from all this… they could run away together… away from Maubrey… His thoughts interrupted by her words…

“I think I am going crazy... there are long spans of time I cannot account for... I wish it all to end... to make it end." her voice was but a whisper in his ear.

Her soft voice in his ear… her warm breath stirring inner cravings… When would it end?? Would taking her away from all this make it end? He doubted it, for whatever held her captive in her mind would hold her captive still, elsewhere.

Her whole body began to shake... "Please... help .... me?" she pleaded to him for what exactly she was not certain. He had told her she had been beaten and gravely so... they brought her here for treatment. Why did they just not let her die?? It would be better than living as she was now right? "Tired... headaches..." her body suddenly went limp as if it had been too much for her to deal with... and once more she slept.

And once more, his blood raced thru his veins… not from desire but concern… Her frail body shook… she begged for cure…. Once again she passed out and lay in his arms. As he scooped her up, he whispered… “If I could rip all this out of yu… to give yu life I would… til yu are better… or I am dead… I shall be by yer side…”

Her body succumbed to its own needs and she passed out into his arms. They felt warm and strong and somewhere deep within, she delighted that he had been holding her. If she were sure of who she was, she had been tempted to kiss his full lips… but chose to kiss his cheek instead. He seemed like a great man and until what was happening to her it was best not to get involved with anyone.

His voice called to her but the words were lost in the haze of her haggard mind… the she was floating and laid upon her bed once more… she felt him brush hair from her face… yet could not wake up… then as he was about to leave she reached for his hand and held onto it with what little strength she had… ”No…leave….me” she whispered and then fell silent. Her breathing became even and shallow as she slid back into the abyss of darkness.

His hand held hers as she pleaded… Was she telling him to leave her… or no leave her? It did not matter to him, really. Sitting down in the chair next to her bed. “I go no where MiLady…” he said in a soft voice. And as she slept, he kissed her hand, laying his forehead upon the back of it.

[strongjustice]

The ship anchored off the coast, while a lone crewboat was rowed toward shore… Silently the men lifted their oars and placed them away in a careful manner, as the boat rode the waves upon the beach. Then in a sudden lurch, the boat stopped, its keel buried in the sand, and three men jumped out pulling the boat ashore.

Lord William stood, and pushed the blue robes aside and gathered the hem about his hands. Stepping out onto the sands of Skye once more. Close behind, Gerard, dressed in similar robes followed his Lord and friend.

One man approached them and with a nod from William, the man lit a lamp… holding it high swung it side to side. In response, another light in the distance was seen. Moments later it was extinguished as was his. A carriage came from the far hill, and made its way to the beach.

A clandestine meeting between members of an organization under the covers of darkness could be construed as traitorous… or blackmarketeers doing business with pirates… Whatever the case may be, the events now occurred upon the beaches of Skye, not far from Turas Lan… In the distance, a sail was seen…

“MiLord, we must go… the Griffin Navy is patrolling this area for pirates and privateers… Our ship is departing… as we must, before we are seen…” Then moments later, as the sails of the cutter get larger, the carriage disappears behind the sandy knolls of Skye’s shores.

[Men of Skye]

The days passed and Eryn grew stronger, save the headaches and sudden transformations into Anwen. Those that tended the woman would do so only sparingly now, as they began to deem her bewitched and were afraid. In these days, no one would know what Dissociative Identity Disorder was… and their claims of bewitchment held legal status.

It was Jonathan that was the link between the two… and everyone depended upon him as the go-between for Eryn and Anwen. Of course, he did not mind, and was accustomed to the changes; though emotionally it was difficult. One was married, one was not… yet he held feelings for the one, regardless of what mind she was in.

In the hallways or in the gardens of the Infirmary, the pair never left the grounds. Always together… When Anwen was around, it was platonic, and when Eryn was around, hands were held… sometimes a head would be placed upon his shoulder when they sat.

Dmitrii stood next to Kaelyn and looked down upon the pair as they sat on the stone bench in the garden. A glance given to his sister… “Kaelyn… are yu sure that is Eryn? She looks much like her, save the scar and shorter hair…” the confused look was given to his sister as he spoke her formal name in his usually manner.… “I only saw Lady Anwen from a distance, but it has been over a year since I saw Eryn… I cannot be sure…” Then with a slow exhale of air from his lungs… “Have yu spoke to her other than that day…” he cants his head toward Kaelyn… “I am so sorry I did not come sooner…”

His lips on her cheek made her smile though she sat ramrod straight in her saddle as they moved slowly through the streets. Once in front of the healing wards his touch on her leg told her he was there if needed… Kae inhaled and dismounted like a pro and as Thorin and Pagan led the way she fell into step with them. Slowly they made their way to where Eryn/ Anwen was being quartered, a guard approached and told them her brother Dmitrii was already there and waiting. They met and were looking out the window at the couple in the garden as Dmi spoke… “It is most odd indeed but Aye I am sure it is her… I would know her anywhere my brother as I would you.” Her voice was soft as she stared sightlessly out the window. It would look like she was just lost in all that was happening in her life and not that she was ‘blind’. She carried herself in the same manner and was doing her best to keep this important fact hidden from all save those who already knew… Lee and Pagan… though she knew if her sight did not come back soon she would have to tell Dmitrii as well as Bess and Adam the truth.

Dmitrii saw Eryn and Jonathan stand and move to the nearby tree. Jonathan was pulling off some free-hanging vine to make a small wristlet for Eryn… But something even more odd struck him. His steel grey eyes narrowed as he looked to Kaelyn… saying nothing, he glanced briefly back at the entrance to the Infirmary at Pagan and Kaelyn’s new companion, back to her. Her eyes did not move, nor her head, when the couple moved. His attention went back to the pair as they moved back to the stone seat. Still he watched them as he spoke in Rus… “Kaelyn, are yu alright?” the words rolling off his tongue ever so easily… “You seem preconsumed……” he continued… It could be the stress of Eryn’s abrupt death and return… He had no idea of the real truth.

Sightless and quiet she looked out the window unaware that the couple they watched moved about or that others were there watching them as well. Hands clasped behind her back in a very military way… her mind working over time with thoughts and the how and why’s of all that was happening. Dmitrii’s words in his native tongue floated to her and without looking to him “Aye, my brother I am as well as I can be all things considered.” she replied in Rus. Kae hated deceiving her brother but it had to be this way for now. “Preconsumed does not begin to describe what I am feeling… I thought I had lost her… now I find she is alive… with no memory of her past it seems. My husband and children are dead…my life is a constantly spinning as if I have no control and now I am….” letting the last trail off. So stoic was the warrior… eyes never moving, body tight as a bow string drawn back… her lie consuming her from the inside out. All the training she had done with Lee was paying off so far… she could feel he was nearby and that gave her a measure of comfort in all of this. “SO my beloved brother how goes things with Ae and yourself?” ah yes the great subject change.

Lee was as guided by Pagan was waiting at the entrance to the Healing Ward. He had dismounted with the others, yet his strange dress seemed to get him more ten a few odd glances. Yet those soft brown eyes looked on upon Kaelyn, awaiting like Pagan to be called over if he was needed. His eyes shifting to look at the woman who over the last couple weeks had changed his entire perspective of the world around him. As Pagan was making general conversation with the asian stranger who seened to draw gazes from Dmitrii. Lee wondering how his training with Kaelyn was working.

Her Russian had improved, and as usual she dominated every challenge, the language being a smaller one. Though one thing was sure, the pair had come to know each other as if they were born and raised together all their lives. “Bri houn ka…” [mild form of the word Liar] “I know yu, and something is not right…” he paused a bit… He was younger than she, and both were highly experienced in their fields… “Nyet, do no change the subject… What is going on with you my Sister…?”

Neither raised their voices to cause alarm, and neither spoke a language any would recognize. To others around, near or far, they would simply be discussing what they were looking at, and not about her condtion. His hand upon the railing, he glanced at Kaelyn, then looked back down at Jonathan and Eryn. “My instinct tells me something is wrong… yet tis only your words that confirm or deny. Do not lie to me my Sister… That would be more harm than any truth could…” he shifted the twin swords upon his back, none would know it as a nervous, or anxious trait.

One glance to the stranger close to Kaelyn side, then to his sister, finalizing his gaze down to Jonathan and Eryn once again, knowing Kaelyn hires various people for certain jobs, usually dealing with the Rangers… “Ka to tum…? [who is he?] Shto et del li ish tyb ya? [what does he do for you?]

Kae listened to Dmitrii and when he said the word liar she turned her hear toward the sound of his voice and raised a brow and let out slow breath… "You my brother are too smart for your own good at times... I ask one thing of you and that is to say nothing of what I am going to tell you." she waited only a second not long enough for a response from him. "I am blind... Lee believes it is temporary... it happened in a battle with members of my 13th squad. They had captured and beaten him... when Jonah returned to RavensCrest and I found out he did not like that I was to send them back to Argania… he attacked. Lee saved my life. That is the full story brother in it condensed form." Once more she was looking out the window... would Dmi help keep her secret?? Would he be mad?? Having heard him ask about Lee and wondering how much to tell him… "Lee is now a member of my Guard now... he has helped to teach me to fight and do things without using my eyes... and I care for him... Dmi, I think I am falling in love again and it is scaring the hell out of me." there she had confessed the one thing she was having trouble accepting herself. That Lee was becoming very very important to her in many ways. They still talked in Russian so the conversation was still private on some levels. Her heart now raced... would Dmi accept Lee and the fact she was starting to have deep rooted feelings for the man??

The news was a blow to her brother… T’was a good thing she was using the Rus language as he would have asked for confirmation. “Yu know me sister… I shall nay say a word…” he listened to her explain what happened, and as she mentioned her rescuer, he glances at Lee and back to her. And as she mentioned love, he took a second quick glance. Once again, in Russian, he speaks slowly… “Yu have the right to be afraid of allowing emotions to take over. But my advice is that you be careful not to confuse love and empathy. In the empathic times of confusion, pain, and loss, all of which you have felt, tis easily be construed as love.” The r’s of the odd language rolling off his tongue. He spoke plain and slow so she could understand him and not be misconstrued in what he said; all without anyone knowing the conversation between sister and brother; though a bit of the languages fluctuations in tones and pitch would sound as if they argued. And now who was the younger sibling? Or the most experienced in pain?

“I pray your blindness is temporary, for you are too wild to allow yerself to be tied down… but careful of yer heart my sister… irregardless, I am your brother… I shall always speak truthfully and direct… and I shall ALWAYS love you…” this was said with a hand upon her back… rubbing her from the lower spine to the shoulders, where his height caused him to have to reach up… as his steel-grey eyes lightened and looked upwards to her.

Lee remained calm, looking, and speaking lightly with Pagan. He had no reason to assume anything was none the wiser. He thought for a brief moment Kaelyn's body was rigid, then she relaxed instantly. He assumed it was something small, so he didn't get any worried. His lips curled into a smile, laughing at his subtle comment. Replying back, Pagan laughed in response. The men joking on whether or not he could cut a falling leaf in half. His eyes kept subtle glances. She trusted the man with her, so he had to as well. But it did not stop his eyes from shifting back to look upon the Warrior Goddess... his Daimi. (Great Beauty)

Kae could feel every time Lee looked her way like they were in sync somehow… she heard him laugh at something said between him and Pagan and then Pagan laughed. It was like they were long time friends and that made her feel at ease. They were accepting him without question… just as she had. Dmitrii on the other hand would be a bit harder to convince.

They were conversing in Russian so it was easier to speak freely so to speak and not have anyone the wiser of the content of the conversation. “Aye, my brother I hear what you are saying and thank you for keeping this to yourself for now. Know that if its goes much longer with no improvement I will resign as the Elite ranger and or have Danae take over.” She sounded so upset at the thought of that happening. She always took such pride in her duties and was honored to be given the commissions she had been given… though she had earned them as did everyone. “As for as how I feel about Lee I am not rushing into anything… my heart is not yet ready to be claimed again.” Her inflection of the words in the language were amazing and she had about mastered the language. As he slowed in his speaking making it easier for her to follow she had to chuckle softly. “Dmitrii never doubt my love for you… and I know you love me and will stand by me no matter what I choose or do.” She leaned into him as he rubbed her back to soothe her and it indeed helped. “Let me introduce you to Lee and please for the love of the Gods do not grill him like a father whose daughter is dating for the first time.” She teased him softly.

“Maybe yu should take a leave of absence my sister… allow Danae to command for a while…” he knew his words were like daggers to something she put so much effort into… but Dmitrii was also double-dealing… “Take the time… search yer true feelings without the stress of duties to the Mo’r Traith…” he was looking out for his sister… no more duties… and allowing her to spend time with her new male friend… to see if it was actually love or empathy… “Then once you heal… not if you heal… you can return as Ranger Elite…” But before he could comment about last sentence… she called for him…

“Lee I have someone for you to meet.“ she called out to him softly.

Dmitrii's eyes snapped a frustrated look at her, then turned in the direction she spoke, and looked at the oddly dressed man. Standing erect next to his taller sister, he smiled…

Thankfully him and Pagan did seem to be accepting the man, even as the two squared off a bit, and Lee placing Pagan’s wrist in his hand began to explain a technique on disarming used by his people. Rolling the man slowly to his left, and drawing beneath him, showing him as he stood behind the man how fast his own weapons could be turned on him. Placing Pagans hand on his sword, he hand the man pull on it, a catch in the blade kept it locked to him, tied at his waist and he was pulled forward himself. The two of them laughing at how goofy Lee looked, being yanked around by the burlier, taller, bigger man. His head shaking as Pagan stopped. Both thankfully presented with some drink. His eyes still straying to Kaelyn, feeling as she did that connection.

His and Pagan’s little game ending, and he heard Kaelyn’s tones break through the other sounds calling to him. Pagan pointed and laughed and in response Lee handed him the glass after Lee finished the water, and thanked the man, he moved towards the two. Stopping close by, he bows at the waist, his hands resting at his side. As he looked up, soft brown eyes moved from the man back towards Kaelyn. “You have called, as promised I am here.” his hands moving to rest at the small of his back.

His words were like daggers being buried deep within her chest and knew he was talking from his concern of her. “I will remain as the Elite Ranger until I cannot… as for my feeling s they are mine and I will search them for the answers I seek.“ her words were softer now and she was trying to remain stoic. “Dmitrii I love you and you know that… and more so for your concern and worry. Know I will do what is needed and when it is needed. My duties are all I have that are keeping me sane right now…” tears filled her eyes and she was trying to keep her emotions in check but truth be told she was scared.

Dmitrii shrugged at her persistence to remain as she was, though he, and she, knew she was not… His steel grey eyes veered from her to Lee, then back again… “Do what yu shall… to step down is needed and now… yu do not do your warriors, nor yourself any good……” knowing she would first think of her warriors… “Take the time needed to learn to use the other 4 senses that yu have left… yu are as a child learning anew…” Blunt, forward, but the Rus language did provide that sense of nurturing she would need in time of distress… “There is no war…no battles, save the minor scrimmages to keep out the riff-raff… Let yer rangers handle it… Danae is quite capable… Yu wish to be with the man… then be with him… apparently he is teaching yu to use what yu have… and to overcome disabilities…” then he paused when Lee moved forward… and looked between the pair standing near him.

His words though born of concern for her hit her list a gauntleted fist in the face. He was of course right… and she would need to take some time to learn and heal. “Are we sure you are not the older wiser sibling?” she teased softly and gave him a small sad smile. “When we meet Adam and Bess, I will inform them and have someone speak with Danae as well. My warriors and rangers need a strong whole leader.” She hated admitting that he was in fact right. “Know that if I am needed no matter what I will be with my men… in a blink of an eye.” The last was more of a promise than anything. She wished she could see Dmitrii’s expression and Lee’s as well, but it was what is was right now… and importantly they needed to figure out how they were going to handle the situation at hand where Eryn/Anwen was concerned, before she could make any further decisions.

As they cotninued to speak in the russian language, having been summoned, but he still knew not for what. He was merely standing there. His hands resting behind his back, and he looked between the two. Having yet to be introduced. He knew he would be brought into the conversation when it concerned him. Unknownst to him.... it concerned him now…

MEANWHILE…. In the Garden below…

Anwen/Eryn sat with Jonathan and enjoyed the time they shared outside though her mind was a mess… one minute she seemed to know who she was and the next not… her head throbbed from it all. Neither was aware that they were being watched or by whom… as they walked from the bench towards a tree and back exercising her legs and muscles. She leaned on him for support… and something told it was not right yet another part of her thought it was. Jonathan had been with her from day one and yet the image of another floated through her mind… a man with sea-green eyes and his image made her heart race a bit… then a name William was whispered upon her lips. She was so confused… and felt helpless.

William and Gerard stayed pretty much to themselves while in Turas Lan, but further and further each day did they venture from the rooms at the Inne. On the beginning of their second week in the capital city, William and Gerard made their way to the Infirmary…

“MiLord, do you deem it safe to venture this far away… if we are caught, we shall surely be killed…” Gerard whispered. “We must my good friend… we have come this far… lest we nay venture further, we shall be required to extend our visit in this vile country.” William retorted. “I MUST see Anwen… to get her from here and on home…”

Through the main door they entered, the excuse of medical supplies to Ireland gained them further access. On the veranda, overlooking the gardens, the two men stood… below, a man and woman strolled together, hand-in-hand. As William snapped a second… and then a third look, he saw Jonathan and Anwen… and he swallowed… for just then the couple sat… the female laying her head upon the man’s shoulder. William then took a step toward the stairs… and Gerard grabbed his arm… “No MiLord…”

William snapped an angry look… “You see who that is…?” he whispered with anger. Gerard just nodded, with pleading eyes. “Now’s nay the time MiLord…” William’s face was red, his teeth grinded. “When, then?”

Far across the courtyard, upon the far veranda, Gerard caught sight of Lady Kaelyn and Lord Zurban… and he turned his back. “MiLord… we MUST leave… lest we be caught… the Weapon Master and the Ranger are here… they shall recognize us…” William growled, spun his cape and stormed down the stairs and out the door, Gerard not far behind… his glances watching their retreat into the vastness of the city markets.

[Men of Skye]

Tireless… steadfast… Unfaltering… Idiot… Stupid… Those are the things that people said behind his back as the days past since he arrived in Turas Lan with the Lady Anwen… to now, as he walked with Eryn in the garden. It was not her fault that she was tormented by things of the past… nor his assiduous caregiving… He was ordered to stay with Anwen, but his feelings were for the woman… regardless who she was… or is…

Jonathan walked everywhere with her… in and around the Infirmary… the gardens… It was as if he was her shadow… attached at the lowest point of where the sun shone brightest. And each mine she uttered Lord William’s name… or described him in her conversation… it was like a knife had been thrust thru his heart, an aching pain in his chest…

He would not say anything to describe his feelings or make her ponder upon him… he was a tool of his lordship… or so he said… but inside, he had fallen for his woman… The Lady Wounded.

William gritted his teeth as he gazed upon Kaelyn, then to Anwen… both he and Kaelyn were the only ones who would know that Eryn and Anwen were one in the same… hesitantly William succumbed to Gerard’s urging to remain hidden and anonymous… “When Gerard? When?” he stared at the man with dim green eyes the color of the seas. Gerard only shook his head… ”Soon MiLord, but nay now…”

She was two women at once completely different yet the same. They may share one body... but they were separate none the less. Eryn was falling for Jonathan and Anwen was loyal to her husband... both personalities were battling for control over the body. Eryn looked at Jonathan and "I wanted to say thank you... for caring for and protecting me." she gave his hand a gentle squeeze. They had walked around this place for weeks on end together... spent all their time together and she was grateful to him.

His hand took hers, and his soft eyes blinked… “MiLady… tis nay reason to thank me… tis a great pleasure standing by yu and protecting yu… I just wish…”

Anwen however was raging mad she wanted control and though trapped within the body shared she wanted her husband William and could not understand why he had no come for her? She felt the way Eryn felt about the young knight and she wanted back in control... but how? Anwen grew angry at the way Jonathan looked at them... knowing those eyes saw only the one the blond warrior had called Eryn.

They sat on the ground under a tree and Eryn looked once more at Jonathan and her heart fluttered with feelings she did not understand... control came in the form of immense pain as it shot through her head. SO sharp and severe Eryn/Anwen screamed and curled into herself. Hands gripped either side of her head.....the battle was now on for control of the shared body... who would win?? No way to know.

His words of wishes and desires would remain unspoken, having been interrupted by the persona non grata of Anwen… As she clamped her hands upon her head and screamed, Jonathan knelt down beside her attempting to calm her… what he wanted to do was grab her deep inside her mind and free her of that demon…

MEANWHILE BACK INSIDE THE HEALING WARDS.....

Kae stood silent as Dmitrii spoke and then with a nod and in English so Lee could understand "Let us figure out this issue and if my sight is still not back when we go to meet with Adam and Bess I will step down as Elite Ranger for a while and leave command to Danae... agreed?" she said blind eyes staring out at him. "Lee has been a great help in teaching me how to use all but my eyes the training is intense and working..." she stopped as if something they could not hear or see was happening. "I feel like we are being watched..." then Eryn's scream carried to them. Kae knew these halls like she knew her hand and took off leaving them there as she raced out the doors towards the gardens.

Dmitrii listened to his sister and nodded. What else could he say? As WeaponsMaster, he could have much ado about her status, but why would he strain their relationship? He just smiled at her tenacity and looked at Lee. His eyes shifted from the odd man to Kaelyn, as her ears perked to one side. Immediately Dmi looked around to see if any others were around, then he looked down toward the screaming woman… instantly Kaelyn took off down the halls… soon followed by Lee and Dmi…

He really did not know what to say or do. But his head would bow a bit and he smiled. “As you so wish Daimi.” :Yet he heard the scream as well as the others. He was easily keeping up with them, moving towards the scream. He may not have known the halls but he could read their movements and turned as they did. Moved as they did.

She could hear Lee and Dmi right behind her... once outside she stopped to listen... heard the cries and because the garden had so many trees and objects sound was bouncing off them making it hard to pinpoint where they came from... she inhaled and concentrated for but a second located the direction and was running once more towards the back side of the garden. Would Dmi be impressed at her new skill?? Would Lee?? Like a bat with echo location she could sense objects in her way and either jumped over them or dodged around as if she were seeing them and maneuvered accordingly.

Impressed? Certainly, but he was irritated and agitated to know she still would bound blindly into a situation.

Stopping just in front of the young couple she whirled about... again feeling eyes upon them and not knowing why or who !! "Eryn? Jonathan?" she called out waiting for someone to speak so she could find them in all the trees.

Dmitrii caught up with her near where Anwen and Jonathan was… his hand upon the dagger at his hip. Damn him for not bringing his swords.

As he moved, following them, he stopped just behind Kaelyn, studying the situation, he was looking around, moving around on the grounds. His eyes looking from the couple, to the ground, and then the trees. His head shaking as he looked to Kaelyn, he could not see any signs of an attack. No disturbed ground no knife slashes. He just had to figure it was something else going on he could not see.

Jonathan called to Dame Kaelyn… “Here MiLady… Lady Anwen…err.. Eryn… just screamed grabbing her head… I fear for the worst…”

William cursed silently as he and Gerard made their way out of the Infirmary. Had they been discovered? Who would suspect the Butcher of the Isles return to the scene of his crimes…?

[Men of Skye]

Kae turned towards the sound of Jonathan’s voice and noted that he was not sure what name to call her by… at least they seemed to have that in common. She heard Dmitrii and Lee behind her and could almost hear Dmitrii grumble… about her taking off as she had. Hands out in front of her she took small steps towards the couple... she could hear the soft moans coming from her cousin, and knelt down and spoke softly in Arganian. Concern laced her words and her tone was thick suddenly with her accent.. “For the first time I am afraid I do not know what to do… Dmi?” the question in her voice was not the norm and he would know it. Usually she handled things herself … now was a good time as any to rely on those she was close to.

Dmitrii was just behind her a bit, and stepped forward to take her hand. “Do nothing… take leave of all this and go home… assign Danae to take charge in yer absence…” he looked to the strange man, hating to trust him blindly. “Take my sister… into yer hands I commit her sight and life… see her home and guard her like none other… fail me not or yu shall always be looking over yer shoulder…” Then he looked at Eryn and her companion shaking his head.

Anwen/Eryn heard the voices about her but the one she tried to concentrate on was Jonathan’s. Reaching out she grabbed hold of his hand… and held it in her own shaking ones “Please make it stop…” she whispered to him. The single sentence carrying more than one meaning right now. Her head was pounding so bad it was making her stomach toss and she was growing dizzy… with a look up into Jonathan’s eyes she was silently pleading … then she passed out.

“I am here MiLady…” Jonathan whispered to Eryn… “As I have always been… Take my hand… allow me to seek yer healer…” Her request to make it stop pained him greatly. His heart was broken and ripped from his chest, or so it seemed. “I shall try MiLady…” She fell into his arms… Scooping her up, he hurried into the Infirmary.

Kae was feeling so damn helpless right now… “Lee can you help her?” she was willing to let anyone try to help if they could fro she hated seeing her cousin hurting as she was. She heard the words she had spoken and let out a long breath… hadn’t she not so long ago wished someone would have ended her pain by any means?? Now she just pushed through her days… tried not to think or feel … well that was until Lee had come into her life. Perhaps Dmitrii was right… maybe she needed a break… to really heal in many ways… there would be no shame in that right? Her mind was a jumbled mess and she stood… maybe Lee and Dmi could figure out to help… she was useless at the moment… “Can you two deal with this? I need to gather myself and thoughts in order to be of a good. Dmi you speak Arganian well enough… that she will understand… should it be needed to soothe,” that said she turned and slowly walked away.

Dmitrii huffed… “Lee is busy taking care of yu… Eryn can wait… He has his task… later when yu are safe, he can return to help…” he looked at Lee… “IF he can !!” Dmitrii pointed to Kaelyn as he looked to Lee. “I will handle this… Lee will take care of yu…” he patted Kaelyn’s back. “My Arganian is weak but shall suffice, now be gone from here… I shall visit yu at RavenCrest later…” then he kissed her upon her cheek, turning to enter the Infirmary without any comments from her nor Lee.

He looked towards Kaelyn, catching up, he did as Dmitrii had said. He was of no use here as the limit to his healing skills were field medicine. Herbs, things like that found in nature to help one’s body heal. When it came to the mind.. he was useless. Moving he took Kaelyns arm, wrapping hers around his as they walked away slowly side by side. "Forgive me.. I.. could be of no help. When it comes to the mind... I am helpless there." He was looking to her, even as they walked, looking ahead. He knew she still had others to see so he was moving with her towards their horses.

Kae knew her brother was right to have Lee come with her even if she wanted to be alone, feeling useful as a bull with utters. Dmitrii spoke of his language skills and she had to chuckle... Russian was his first language but he had learned Arganian quickly. "You will do fine Dmi and Ademar will remain with you should you need him. When you can meet me at RavensCrest and perhaps ask Adam to meet us there... would be easier than at the Castle for me…" she turned and walked away slowly... shoulders straight and proud though she felt anything but right now. As she walked Lee spoke and brought her out of her self-hating thoughts. "Lee, there is nothing to forgive... I but asked... you can only do what you can do. Nothing more... nothing less." she sounded pathetic and defeated even to her own ears.

Kae looked lost as she glanced towards her brother "I have faith in you Dmi." she said in Russian to him then turned a walked away.

Dmitrii nodded to Kaelyn and glanced back at Ademar out in the hall. “Con jesh na…” [Of course] he replied, followed by more Russian… “I will do what I can for Eryn… but it looks as she is in well hands…” glancing at the departing Jonathan… “I shall speak with Lord Adam…” Then he watched Kaelyn and her odd stranger depart.

They walked out to where their horses were tethered... with Lee's help she mounted… "Thank you for being here." she said softly... praying her sight would return sooner rather than later, for she did not want to leave her position as Elite Ranger and Knight, but would for the better of all.

“I could be nowhere else but at your side Daimi...” He smiled. Before helping her mount, as it was just him and her, as Pagan was waiting outside, he would place his lips against her own in a reassuring, loving kiss. Releasing it to help her mount he would grab his own horse, and follow her side by side. Their horse close enough he knew she would be able to tell he was close enough for her to reach out too if she needed. As Pagan nodded, and the three of them headed back towards Ravencrest.

AS she rode from Turas Lan towards RavensCrest.... her home... her prison. Lee rode beside her... silent except for when he offered an explanation "There is nothing to forgive Lee... and you are far from helpless... that is my title in this circumstance. What good can I be to my Lord and Lady or this Isle as blind as I am now. Danae is a good leader and the men respect her..." her voice soft as she spoke.

Leaving Eryn in Dmi's hands had been hard but he was wise and could handle it. It would be the first time in a long time that she had let another take control from her and it showed... her pride injured in a way that made her wish she... well no use thinking like that. Her day to drink in Valhalla would come and she would welcome sitting next to her father in the halls of warriors.

Lee just continued to ride with her the whole way. His hand reaching out to lightly lay along her own. His eyes shifting to look back to Kaelyn, as they rode. “Are you alrigt Daimi?” He spoke softly, as their horse were going slow towards the place he had been calling home for the last few weeks. “I believe your people call it... penny for your thoughts?”

His hand lay upon hers and she turned her head to look in his direction “Nay I am not alright I feel like a failure… less than what I am for not being able to do my duties… and damn my blind eyes for it all.” a bit of anger laced her words but not towards him… he was a bright light in her dark world. She chuckled as he spoke the common phrase of her people “Aye they do say that…So much has happened in my life recently that I am having trouble grasping it.” She let out a small breath “You..Lee are the only thing I find joy about… my heart aches with grief and yet is filling with the care I feel for you.”

Dmitrii motioned to Ademar to follow, and he walked into the Infirmary. Inside he saw Jonathan laying Eryn upon her bed, the healer checking her over, and Jonathan’s concerned expression.

Jonathan once again stood by her side as he watched the healer. His expression was one of concern and endearment. How could any man suffer thru what he has… and not ask anything in return? He held her hand, in hopes of her realizing that he still remained adamant by her side.

The healer looked at Jonathan with a sigh… “There is nothing else I, nor any of the more learned, can do for her… She is physically healthy but I believe she is possessed by another… Maybe yu should go and leave her here… I can arrange a place for her elsewhere, so she can have constant care…”

Jonathan looked at the woman oddly. “Possessed? That’s heresy… There is nothing that possesses her… she has been thru a great ordeal, that’s all… and I shant ever leave her…” Jonathan refuses to accept the inevitable for the mentally insane. With all the non-medical attention she was receiving and the limited medical options left, Jonathan was beginning to worry… and in his own mind, he began to draw up plans… options…

Eryn had collapsed and was once more surrounded by darkness her mind a scattered mess and oblivious to all that was being said and happening around her; though she heard Jonathan's voice clearly. He was so strong and defended her tooth and nail. He was handsome and when she looked at him she got the strangest feeling in her chest and stomach. She had never been in love before and part of her wondered what it felt like. A hand brushed hair from her face and she instinctively turned into it... large, warm, callused... his. Then she was drifting once more in nothingness.

[Men of Skye]

Dmitrii would walk up to Eryn’s bed and look down upon her, then with a glance to Jonathan… “Yu have stood by Eryn all this time?”

Jonathan would nod… “Aye MiLord… but I am confused… I am told that Lady Anwen is a lass named Eryn of Argania… kin to the Queen…?”

Dmitrii began to discuss the minimum necessary to outline Eryn’s relationship to Kaelyn and himself… and how important it was for her to be looked after til good health returns.

Jonathan listened, nodding a few times and Lord Zurban’s explanation of his knowledge of how Lord Maubrey had a hand in all this surprised him. “So Eryn is married to Lord Maubrey… as Anwen of Connacht?”

Dmitrii nodded… “But the Mo’r Triath may have the power to annul the marriage since this was performed under duress… with Maubrey being a criminal and all…” The steel grey eyes narrowed and eyelids closed and opened as he spoke about a vile enemy of the state. “Yu may have to testify to all yu know of Maubrey…” Testing Jonathan’s faith toward Eryn.

Jonathan listened… though he was a year or so younger than Dmitrii, he was much less experienced in life’s affairs… “MiLord… I would do anything to save Lady Eryn’s life… even give my own… Some say she is possessed… I believe not so… Either way, I shall remain by her side until I am dismissed by her… and her alone… or imprisoned against my will.”

Dmitrii canted his head at Jonathan’s statement. “I must see the Mo’r Triath about this…” and he turned to walk away. A few steps later, Dmitrii turns slightly, looking back over his shoulder. “I, Lord Dmitrii Zurban, shall hold yu to that promise… with yer life…” then he walked away without comment.

Eryn was sleeping more peacefully thanks to the tea laced with herbs the healer had coaxed into her. Her mind swirled and images flashed and within a war raged between a cold hearted killer and the young innocent female... Anwen and Eryn battled for control over the body and mind they shared. One fought for power and her husband, the other for a chance at life and love... love would win over power every time. She had no clue as to the conversation and stuff taking place in the room where she lay... her body still as death... but within chaos ran amuck.

Dmitrii rode to the Castle of the Mo’r Triath. Dismounting, he made his way thru the door and down the hallway. Bootheels against stone echoed in the corridors as he made his way to the waiting room. “I must see the Mo’r Triath at once…” the page bowing slightly as the knight spoke o him. Turning and entering thru a door, the page performing his duty.

Adam sat at the large desk, shuffling some documents comparing trade routes versus shipping profits. As the page entered and announced Lord Zurban, Adam stopped what he was doing… “Aye, Ah shall see ‘im….” He motioned with his hand as he spoke softly…

As Dmitrii received the allowance, he entered and immediately bowed before his Lord and friend… “M’Lord… tis been too long…” as he knelt upon one knee…

Adam walked to him and bade him rise… then the protocols were abandoned as the two friends embraced. “Wot brings yae b’fore mae this day mae friend?” he said, having seen the concern upon Dmitrii’s face that this was business and not pleasure.

Dmitrii rose and embraced his friend, though the steel-grey eyes displayed something more than pleasantries… “Tis my sister and my cousin M’Lord…” then Dmitrii began to explain all that had happened over the past few months as best he knew.

As Dmitrii spoke, he sat back upon the desk and assumed a caring, attentive, stance. After about twenty of conversation, Adam stroked his chin… “Ah pray that Kae shall recover… Ah shall dae wot Ah kin… and yes, Danae would be good as a replacement… baet she nay bae Lady Kae…” Adam lowered his head.

With a simple glance… “Yae say Lady Eryn is alive? Ah remember the funeral ceremony we ‘ad…” he looked a bit confused… “…and she is the Lady Anwen? Yae sure…??”

Dmi nodded at his Lord’s inquiry… “Ah M’Lord… seems that Maubrey took Eryn and did something to her… cursed her mind…” he paused… “I fear Maubrey’s past has come to haunt my present… as a woman captured the Lady Anwen and imprisoned her, for she was very badly abused when she arrived at the Infirmary…” Then he proceeded to tell what Adam about Jonathan, and what the lad knew of Anwen’s imprisonment and abuse.

“Do you fear the lad and lass are a security hazard?” Adam asked of his friend. “If nay, then Ah ‘ave nae pr’blem offerin’ sanctuary… if aye, then ‘e needs to be imprisoned along with the woman… No telling wot mae Father did…” Adam just shook his head.

Dmitrii nodded… “I understand M’Lord… and if I may… I shall take responsibility for Eryn and Sir Jonathan…”

Adam shook his head a bit… “Be wary Dmitrii… very wary… Ah shall decree sanctuary for the pair… but first sign of trouble, tis the dungeon they face…” The decree would follow a deep bow and acceptance of the duty by Dmitrii… Before leaving, Adam embraced his friend again. “Take nay so laeng tae coom see mae…” offering him a wink.

“Aye M’Lord…” Dmi responded, embracing his friend. “Next time I return M’Lord, I pray is to ask you for your marriage blessings…” then he too winked, bowed and turned for the door.

Within a three hour timeframe, Dmi had went to the castle of the Mo’r Triath, received royal consent, and returned to the Infirmary. Now standing before Jonathan… “Sir Jonathan… I have entrusted Lady Eryn to you… and by decree of the Mo’r Triath, yu are allowed sanctuary here in Turas Lan… shall yu be subversive or break our laws… yu shall have to answer to me…”

Jonathan was humbled before Eryn’s cousin and the great warrior, Lord Zurban. Dropping to one knee, he bowed his head. “Thank you M’Lord… I am yer humble servant… I shall take great care of Lady Eryn… I stake my life upon it…”

Dmi smirked… “and so it shall be… Rise Sir Jonathan… and care for my cousin with heart and soul…” He now officially committed Jonathan to caring for his cousin. As Jonathan rose and looked to Eryn, Dmi smiled and turned for the door. His day spent regarding his family… now he would seek out his soon to be new family.

Jonathan did not look up at Lord Dmitrii’s words, he just swallowed understanding the meaning. When the man was finished, he rose and stood before the Knight. As he watched the man excuse himself… he could see the age difference was not too great. He now knew his life was in that man’s hands regardless of the age difference.

When the man as gone, he returned to the sleeping Eryn and sat in the chair next to her, his hand taking hers, and softly kissing the back.