As I Fall In Line; arrival of Ainsley [Maahes]

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

"Da, where do we be goin'?"

"Turas Lan, Ains. Do nae fret child."

"Ma will be worryin' if'n we do nae return soon..."

Words were not spoken beyond that point as Hamish MacKinnon made motion of hand that demanded silence. Traveling from MacKinnon lands to Turas Lan was a long journey. Already Ainsley knew that something was afoot. Da didn't travel into Turas Lan often unless on business. If they were in need of anything else well Portree was closer. Silent thought was kept though as they rode further along. On occasion they would stop to rest the horses or eat a bit of food, but mostly they just rode.

Hamish had not told his daughter what was going through his mind nor his own wife. The man knew that if Brighid knew then she would have had a fit and guilt would have kept his daughter from seeing dreams come true. That could not happen. As they drew closer to Turas Lan he became nervous. Hopefully this General Asad-Aziem would see the potential in Ainsley. If he did then Hamish's daughter would be staying in the capital with a distant Aunt on his side.

Once inside the city they left the horses at the livery and continued onward on foot. Closer they drew to the arena it became more clear Hamish's intentions. One brow shot upward while head turned so fast that brown hair flew over one shoulder. It was pinned back so that it hung down her back otherwise. Now it made sense why he'd told her to bring bow and arrow, and a bag of clothing.

"Da..."

"Quiet nae Ainsley."

As they approached the arena a man stopped them and Hamish drew himself upto full height. Standing there with that clan pride he stated clearly,"Ah be wishin' ta speak with General Asad-Aziem. Mah daughter be lookin' ta join tha Griffin's Army."

And then they waited...

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

"Is he expecting you?" The clerk had asked with hopeful eyes as he wished not to disturb the Beast while he was locked away, but alas he would have to. Of all the special reasons to find comfort in the day, the man would find the eyes of the daughter and see in it hope..The quiver on her back would be a welcome sight, for he feared of such a child at the arms of men.

"He does not take visitors, you must..." The clerk's voice was cut off by one of the captains, as he made his way down the stone stairs to greet them. He was a thin man, tall; with long blonde hair that fell past his shoulders in straight lines, that would have a hint of red when the light hit it.

"You are here for what reasons?" He would ask, but his leaf green eyes would not be so childish when he saw her, he knew deep down. "An archer? How delightful." His voice was like that of a gentle wind, a calm peaceful motion through the trees. "My name is..Brin Ya'ave', I am captain to the Feathered Fleet, a nickname for the society of archers in his majesty's royal army. Come.." He extended a thin hand to her, long slender fingers would ask for her own to escort her to where the rig was set up for their bit of game. "Always do we start with a test before we are put before such a man as Lord General ay?"

Before her were three targets. One barely visible to the naked eye, and two others side by side. In light one would think to simply hit, but first he would ask her to take aim to one so small it was deemed nearly impossible, "Hit the center, M'lady, and no where else." If she did mark her target, then he would ask her to hit the pair with only one shot. Meaning, two arrows fired at once.

*****

A day in the life had seemed to come and go once more, and the General found himself weary; wanting. The winter months had been long, and the hope for spring had been all that carried him through. Never had he known a Scottish winter to be so rough, but this one refused. The rain had made it impossible to train, though still they pressed through. Experiments were running through the idle minds of the captains as they found new and invigorating motions to sweep through the days work. With the warmer weather coming soon, so too would the festivals; the celebration of spring. New paint would be added, as well the new vibrant colors to the flags, and Maahes would look forward to the trumpets announcing the tournaments and the new faces that always came with the change of season.

He had been locked away in his cave, the office barrack below the seating of the arena. It was a hall lined with torches that added heat as well as a calming amber light. His room was at the end of the hall, welcoming by only those who were brave enough to venture inside.

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

"Ah fear he nae be expectin' us." Hamish's brogue was thick and hard to understand when the man spoke gruffly, but now best was done to speak in clearer terms. Though behind him Ainsley stood frozen. Measured hope mingled with fear in cadet blue eyes that closely watched conversation between her Father and the clerk. It seemed the man was intent that a meeting be scheduled beforehand.

Hamish was not about to have this though. Matters with Ainsley's future had to be handled so that he could start on his journey home. Brighid's temper was going to be a force to be reckoned with and the ride home would give him time to figure out how to explain. "Ye be tellin' me ah cannae..." Meaty hand was about to give the insolent pup a cuff to ear when both were interrupted by approach of a man with imposing bearing.

Ainsley's cadet blue eyes widened in face suddenly gone pale. Though color only stayed away for a second. It would not do to show fear. It was not of this man nor of the idea of fighting- just change. Sudden and unexpected change. Slim hands fisted at sides and chin lifted as the man observed her standing there. One did better to present a face of confidence and bravery than to show the quaking nerves battling inside. Form dipped into instinctive curtsy at introduction,"It be a pleasure ta meet ye Captain. Ah be Ainsley MacKinnon and this mah Da, Hamish."

The man seemed a bit off by the appearance of the Captain Ya'ave, perusing him as if wondering if position was earned by merit or kissing arse. Finally shrugging that off, Hamish motioned for daughter who still stood in same spot to follow. In their little line Hamish came last.

"Ah, a test be reasonable." Idle words to make less of the concern flowing through veins. Though old enough to be wed and bear children now- mature in many ways for one of seventeen as was appropriate in such times- Ainsley could not help be uneasy. What if she failed? Brought embarrassment to her Da? Thoughts raced through her mind while blue-gray eyes closely contemplated the targets.

Outwardly the only display of nervousness was a deep inhale of breath followed with slow release of it. Control and focus was fought for now. Without focus it could be assured that test would not be passed. Bow was removed to be taken firmly in left hand while other hand just as smoothly placed arrow in place. Bowstring drawn back until arrow was properly nocked.

Then stance was taken, trying to think that this was just another day hunting game in wild about their home, and soon focus was completely on targets ahead. First target was a bit trickier. Never had she hunted a hare that small. Yet this was what Captain Ya'ave requested of her. Three fingers on right hand began to draw string back while left hand held its own place firmly. Neither of Ainsley's eyes closed as she took aim. Much hunting had taught her that it was easier to shoot with both eyes open than one closed.

Finally Ainsley drew deep breath as three fingers relaxed to allow the string to release arrow smoothly with a twang. That it hit the tiny mark, point firmly planted in center, was only realized after a few moments by her Father's loud grunt of approval. Now though came next and this was trickier. Two targets at once meant two arrows released at once...

Even Hamish realized that his daughter had never done this before. Would she be able to even attempt a try? Silent prayer was sent to the Lord above. Two more arrows were withdrawn from quiver to be nocked while cadet blues took a moment to consider positioning of each target. Oh Lord..., the words rippled through her mind while positioning. Thankful was she that Da had told her to wear her sturdy boots for riding today.

Swallowing hard to force down the knot in throat, Ainsley drew back string while taking indrawn breath just before releasing. The arrows flew but both missed center mark. On one of the pair it came one mark close and on the other missed by long shot though at least it didn't completely bypass target...

Lowering bow now Ainsley waited with bated breath just as Hamish did to see what this Captain Ya'ave would have to say. Would he allow them to meet with General Asad-Aziem? Had test been passed or failed? Generally confident in her ability it had to be admitted that this was far different than just leisurely hunting game.

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

"No, keep your eyes open..both eyes at once. Never close your eyes to your target, for you never know when it could be your enemy." His hand came to tip her chin, as he asked her to try once more.

"Now..once more." Brin's stance came with a gentle straightening of his spine to demonstrate for her.

"Keep your eyes forward, look onto the world a head of you..instinct, will guide you." His hands drew back on the string, mounted on the ends of a delicate long bow, the draw precise and perfect. He hit both marks. Handing her then the bow, he would see if she could even draw it, for it was standard. A hand would come to motion back her father, having him out of ear's reach Brin would turn upon the little archer.

"If you want this..you will hit both marks."

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

Ainsley hadn't realized that one had drifted shut upon releasing shot. Apprehension had been the cause indeed. Nerves were running rampant. She hadn't missed, but neither had she hit either mark. In combat this would be the moment where enemy could possibly have slain her. Swallowing again, cadet blue eyes meeting those of Captain Ya'ave as he touched her chin, she nodded carefully. As to say of course for words would not come.

Observing his own demonstration, she stepped back to take in mental notes: straightness of spine, stance of body, confidence of grip on bow, and the way he saw only those two targets. Had she not stood right perhaps? Cadet blues now focused on the arrows as string was released and felt awe at how smoothly they hit mark. Precise, instinctive aim. Ainsley accepted the bow offered after passing her own off for her father to hold, wondering why her own was not good enough.

Hamish was not pleased to be told to move back. He hadn't been that close! Yet did as told so as not to ruin this chance for his daughter. Familiarizing self with feel of the bow, Ainsley had not been paying attention to his movements and so was caught unaware at the closely whispered remark.

If you want this...you will hit both marks.

Head lifted, chin held at an angle that conveyed pride, as she stated softly though firmly,"Perhaps, Captain, ah did nae show it clear 'nough. Ah want this."

Ainsley did not like to be doubted. Almost every hour of the day was spent with bow in hand. Continuing with her testing of the standard bow, fingers taking placement to pull back string a few times in consideration, she finally withdrew two more arrows. These were nocked with quicker movements though still just as precise- to make sure that they stayed in place, while spine straightened and chin tilted just slightly. Legs positioned while blue eyes stayed perfectly open and this time when both arrows flew through the air they hit their mark- perfect.

Turning swiftly, a fire in blue eyes that made them more intense, Ainsley raised a brow,"Tha' be proof 'nough, Captain Ya'ave?"

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

The tall man would find his figure weather worn, but still perfect. Had he been holding his breath? There was a certain instinct that came with their judgement, and from the moment he had looked upon her face he had known. What a wonderful addition, but would Maahes be so willing to allow such a child inside? She was young, but too old at all the same time. Yet, her determination had won his heart.


"Walk with me?" He asked raising his hand to still her father, he wished only to speak with the man's daughter. As the winding path fed them through the arena, they would be given a break in the cold if only as they started to snake their way through the catacombs of the seating.


"It is not a glorious life, but it is a good one. You will start at the bottom and work your way up. This life, is a hard one, but with it so much honor. You not only serve yourself, but your country..and you can not back out. Once you speak with the Lord General, and offer your hand..it can not be taken back. There is a period of three months, to which you will go through basic training, and I will not lie..there will be days you will to quit. From there if you make it past only then will you be given a place in my division." Though he spoke to her in words of a very serious manner, he had a kind face.

"If you are certain this is what you want, and not the will of your family, M'lady please.." He would extend his hand then to motion to the door with the head of a roaring lion, carved from various materials over the surface. The fires of the torches caused the shadows to dance over his face, over the lion, and around their feet. In many ways this had been described as the den of the Beast, but suddenly it looked more like hell.

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

Hell had its own definition for all. To some, perhaps, signing onto the military would make one think they were doomed to have flames lick their skin until they burned. Ainsley though found thought of being forced to marry when not ready and a complete stranger at that to be so. This was freedom in ways that some would never understand. Hamish hadn't followed after them, but stood anxiously pacing while Captain Ya'ave escorted his eldest daughter toward a door.

Choice. It was something that Ainsley had not ever thought to be given. At this moment one had to be chosen. Did she move forward, raised hand to door, and knock? Or did she step backward, accept mantle of proper daughter, and return home to become some mans incubator? It was not that Ainsley didn't like children or did not some day want marriage, but not now. It was the appropriate age to be wed, to start a family, and yet all she could think about was the feeling that it'd end her chance at all those dreams yearning to become reality.

Cadet blues took in their surroundings as they stood now near a door. The winding path through the Arena itself had given a magnificent view. Here was where those in service to Skye had trained. All that had be done is a step taken and it could be where she did as well. Here was where life could change its course. No longer would she merely be Ainsley MacKinnon, village girl. Instead it'd be Ainsley MacKinnon, Griffin Archer.

Captain Ya'ave was listened to closely while gaze sought his own. Honesty was respected. This man would not lie to her and that was appreciated. Any that thought this life would be easy would have their eyes opened. It was clear though that she did not look upon it with them closed.

"Aye, Captain Ya'ave, Ah do nae think it be simple. Ah hear it be brutal. Mah Da be tellin' me about his experiences and...Ah'm nae afraid ta admit tha' it be a bit frightenin'." There was no shame in admitting fear. It was lack of fear that made one fools. They had no sense of caution which could be the difference between life or death, and not solely for them alone.

Deep breath was taken as head turned to glance sideways at the door. Behind it was one future. Head swiveled the other way, back the way they'd come, where her Father would be waiting outside. There lay another future. Which did she want?

"Three months ye say? Will Ah be expected ta stay in the arena?" It seemed, perhaps, a silly question. Yet Ainsley needed to ask something while the wheels in her mind turned. Each little voice heard only within demanded to be heard as they battled.

One was that of her Mother. Brighid MacKinnon would not be pleased. She'd rant and rave, and lecture until head exploded. Her anger would be clear that she'd hoped for her daughter to be as obedient a child as she had been. Unlike Ainsley she'd been the behaved daughter, seeking a good marriage at appropriate age and never questioning her duty as a woman.

The other? That of her Father. Hamish MacKinnon's voice would not be dripping with anger. Neither would he rant or rave, or even lecture. Instead he'd be understanding though clearly disappointed. He'd been a man who had dreams as a child that had been turned into reality. Now all he wanted was that for his daughter. Yet he'd not chastise her for accepting the duties of wife...

Yet it was none of these voices that made the decision. Instead it was one voice, full of sweet humor and teasing words, that brought a confidence light to blue eyes. Kendrick. The eldest of her brothers was by no means a man destined be warrior. Instead it was more likely to see him become Scholar. Yet he prodded at Ainsley to become dreamt of Archer and protect him as they traveled the lands he'd find education in.

Finally head moved in firm nod,"Ah do want it. This nae be a decision made by mah family. It be a dream o' mine. Ah swear Ah will nae fail mahself nor Skye. Thank ye, Captain Ya'ave."

Upward curve of lips offered warm smile before back straightened and she turned. Shoulders were pulled back, head lifted high, and feet moved steadily toward the door. As it drew closer the knot of nerves could be felt growing in stomach, but they were ignored. Outwardly not a sign of her concern showed. Hand curled to rap steadily against the door once reached and she waited to be summoned. Either General Asad-Aziem would accept her into service or send her back to the village, but she would not be giving in to his decision without a fight.

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

"Do not be so quick to thank me just yet, but keep this.." He motioned to her heart, where it beat below her breasts, "And do not let him be so quick to judge you." Brin would smile then offer a bow before he gave her chance to move forward. Suddenly, the archer was then alone where the halls seemed to draft with the breath of the winter, sounding just as a sigh across Skye.


The lanterns played tricks on the eye, the wind the ears, but was that the sound of a deep rumble inside the belly of the beast? A roar, so faint that the deepness of the tone rattled, long before the Beast emerged. When the door pulled back, the heavy oak would carry much of the same sound, so perhaps? That was it? The fall of the hot dry air hit the cool chill of the hall very quickly, giving birth to the flames inside. The fire was high on the hearth, and the shadow of a figure there upon the wall. However, it wasn't Maahes who answered the door.

"My Daddy is getting his back fixed." Spoke the first born son, now 4, in a voice that could have been reminded of a cub against his father the lion. Large sea green eyes were a wild contrast against his dark skin, the shade of the sands with the rich undertones of bronze. Ra, was hardly able to keep the door open, and it was a wonder he could even reach the handle at all. Maahes did in fact have the town healer there who knew how to work her hands over the tired soar back of a soldier when his wife could not.

"Who is it son?" The voice boomed like distant thunder across the stone, the very roar of a lion even in his quiet voice. The son Rahjad, would look up at the woman again, waiting for her name, but the tribal eyes of his mother could not compare to the dark narrow of his eyes--his Father.

"It is a woman." He sneered, wrinkling his nose at her. "She has a bow, and brown hair." The important part, being the bow as his eyes started to study it.

Against the far all the shadow of the man rose to fill the space from floor to ceiling, massive arms coming to cover his shoulders with the robe of his heritage, a wrap that passed over one shoulder to fall over his back. His steps were slow, carried with the stiffness that came along with his trade, but as he moved closer the shadow soon would fade; he would be standing before her then. Amber eyes could rival the burning suns of his homeland, the vintage of his blood line thick and ran deep within his veins, but it was when he spoke did he stand out the most. The roar was rich, laced thickly with an accent that could hardly be misplaced.

Maahes waited then, in silence staring her down, judging everything in the moment about this woman before him. He waited for her reasons, for she came to his door..he had not come to hers. What was her purpose? In truth his manners were often forgotten, he came across as harsh a bit brash, but somewhere something had to be right about him, no?

"State your business." Nope.

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

Into the beast's den I go...

That was idle thought that chased through contemplative mind after the swift disappearance of Captain Ya'ave. Clearly the man was fleet of foot. Though words were tucked dearly into back of mind. Checking tightness of red belt across chest that held quiver in place, bow safely positioned as well, and adjusting any last minute misplacement of fabric on simple earthy toned gown with split skirts, Ainsley awaited the door to open. Apparently there was not long to wait. Though the eyes and face that met her own was not expected. Initially when portal cracked to allow slight glimpse inside she'd been looking upward, having heard the General was a large man, and noticed- nothing. Empty air greeted cadet blue eyes filled with confusion until voice drew gaze downward to...a small form.

"Och, Ah did nae mean ta interrupt. Ah can return 'pon the morrow..." Her Father would not be disappointed though to leave not knowing if she'd been accepted, but truly Ainsley had not meant to interrupt any meeting- private or otherwise- the General was partaking in. Noting the way the boy's unusual though fascinating eyes seemed to size her up, she waited. That was until hear the rumble from inside that near made Ainsley jump.

Well, clearly the beast was awake. It was only the little ones words that made brow lift, "Ah nae be a woman. Ah be Ainsley MacKinnon." There was a defensive tone to the words though she wasn't aware of this. It was not that she had an issue with being of the female gender, but believed it should not define who she was. Plus the little boy had made it sound like a particularly loathsome disease.

Biting down on bottom lip a moment, feeling a little off-balance, she was just about to state that she could absolutely come back on the morrow when a shadow shifted. Rustle of fabric was caught which immediately made back straighten and head lift- and she had the urge to run. Many times had Ainsley viewed General Asad-Aziem, but always from afar. Even at a distance the man was intimidating yet nothing prepared her for the sight of him up close. Near magnificent and practically radiated power! It wasn't any wonder that some nicknamed him The Beast...

Pulling from store of courage and grasping it tightly, Ainsley managed to speak with a voice that did not tremble,"Ah be Ainsley MacKinnon as Ah told ye son." Miracle was that even her eyes did not widen to display it! "Mah Da brought me ta join the Griffin Army. Ah be wantin' ta be an Archer. Ah jus' finished mah testin' with Captain Ya'ave."

Hopefully that would suffice for now. Part of her wished that bow was in hand instead of put away and instead sufficed with clasping hands behind back above cloak. Now she prayed the man wouldn't bite her head off...

[Dame Danae Galanos]

The Commander had found herself within the very hall that would lead to the Lord General's door. With every known weapon the Ranger had upon her body, she had obviously been a very buy woman today. She looked a lot like how most people felt by the end of the day. Yet, her end of the day was still a good deal away. As she moved down long the hall, she spotted a small figure, that of a young woman perhaps standing just before the door.

As she slowly continued to close the distance between herself and the woman ahead before the General's door, she began to grin. Soon the Commander was standing behind Ainsley and she bent down to whisper in her ear from behind. ``Don't let his size fool you. The bigger they are, the harder they fall. You should ask him... he would know.`` She teased as she spoke just loud enough for Maahes to hear. While she and Maahes had not spent a great deal of time together for a while, she still considered him a very close and dear friend. Always would no matter what land they defended.

``He's just a big teddy bear really... reminds me alot of my brother, who is also a big man, maybe bigger than the General here. But... I've managed to bring him down to size a few times too.`` With that comment, Ainsley would learn that perhaps Danae had at one time also been responsible for bringing down the General a long long time ago in a land far away, known as Avaria. And she had done so by hog tying him after a... disagreement of sorts. She would never let him live that down, just like he was sure to never let Danae live down a thing or two from her past either. It was what brothers and sisters did, right?

Once the attention was shifted from the General with a smile, she stepped aside so that she was now standing a few steps back but between Ainsley and Maahes. Those icy blue hues came to settle on the female for a moment. ``By the way, I'm Danae Galanos... Commander for the Rangers. You would be?`` she then asked with an arch of a single dark brow while still wearing a bit of a smile.

A glance was made in Maahes' direction, and she spotted his son. Gods above and below... how fast time seem to past these days. She remembered the first time she had laid eyes on the General's son and how she had held him. It had made her think of so many things of both past and possible future events. With a blink or two, those icy hues drifted back to Ainsley as her arms came to cross over her chest in a casual manner.

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

The Beast found himself with a small smile curled over his lips as arms crossed over his chest.

"Welcome Ainsley MacKinnon." Her last name a struggle over foreign lips as most were over the Isle as he put the names together of various families. He had not known the MacKinnon but their loyalty were dear. Maahes would open the door the rest of the way his hand coming to press against his son's shoulder, and Ra would turn away from the woman to make his way inside.

"Come in."

Danae's voice broke the small bit of silence and he would take a deep breath. One of these days her lack of respect, and dominate manner would find her flat on her back. They joked a lot, but when it came to the placement he would put is foot down. Too many times had he let his friends take free reign over the military, and soon they would be seeing a huge shift.

"Danae..your respect is blinding..please." He looked down to Aisley, "Do not be so fooled by her, she is not as hard as she thinks." With that he wouldn't close the door, but lead the small woman inside. To a chair by the fire he would sit with her, offering her the one across from him. There was a humble nature to him here, but the lines of the scars across his biceps could tell a different story. A man of calm nature, transformed across the battlefield.

"And Captain, put you through the arena?" Maahes would look up to the Captain as he made his way through the door, the Elf like male graceful in his actions would have the report in the Beast's hand. Brin would smile to Danae as he passed, moving on out to the halls. Looking over the papers, Maahes would pretend to put the words together, but all that mattered to him were the numbers. "Very good."

"You are aware you will be placed in the lowest rank, sleeping in barracks where a bath is a luxury, and meals are only twice a day?" The harshness of his words were only the truth, for this was his ultimate test. Those who were willing to start at the very bottom, work their way up were proof to their loyalty. Very few passed the 6 week course that carried them to their position, and rank. "You will be put to the test, and may not even touch a bow until you have passed, Lady of Feathers."

Sitting forward he would look down upon the woman, large amber eyes searching her soul or so it seemed, "You will want to quit…' The words nearly a whisper, a harsh raspy sound of a deep rich voice, but there was a light in his eyes as the fierceness fell away.


"But you won't."

He could see it in her, this determination as it gotten her this far had it not?

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

Perhaps he's half-giant? Or...mayhap lion as Da showed me in a book?

That last thought drifted through her mind from one of the books Da had read to her once and the color of General Asad-Aziem's eyes. Perhaps that was why this one intimidated her. Brighid MacKinnon was a formidable woman and always trying to intimidate Ainsley into listening, but nothing had ever worked. She'd always been a free spirit more alive in the wild than restrained by walls or feminine requirements. She'd constantly be getting into trouble for soiling her good gowns or running around barefoot. There'd even been times as a child where she'd had to stand in a corner, a more than torturing punishment for someone as wild as Ainsley, for trying to sneak away from chores or sneak animals to free them.

It was only one voice that distracted her from the nerves caused by the way General Asad-Aziem kept staring at her. Was that... It can't be!

Turning slightly, Ainsley felt her heart still a minute before it kicked back into gear. Danae Galanos was standing right by her and speaking...TO HER. As someone who'd watched this woman in training whenever Hamish would bring her into Turas Lan this was a treat. She'd always wanted to be like her! Skilled and strong, and so very noble and worthy! Realizing that she'd been spoken to, Ainsley collected herself though cadet blue eyes were wider than before,"Och, forgive mah manners, Dame Galanos. Ah be Ainsley MacKinnon."

Clearing throat at the realization that she'd been talking alot faster than usual, Ainsley turned back to the General as she was escorted into his office. Having simply nodded at his statement about Dame Galanos. Clearly the two knew each other well and that would be expected if they worked together, no? That was what Ainsley thought anyways. There wasn't really a reason for her to think otherwise. Lowering into a chair nervously, she nodded firmly,"Aye, that 'e did." Though with the arrival of the Captain himself it was clear that her own affirmation wasn't needed.

Now, alone in an office with three figures of high rank and skill, Ainsley felt her stomach tightened until she wondered if she'd be ill. Oh wouldn't that be embarrassing? The idea of apologizing for tossing up breakfast all over the General's floor was not pleasant. Though the words that came were listened to aptly. Attention was completely on Maahes now.

"Ah do nae mind, General. Ah be stronger than Ah look. Barracks do nae sound tha' awful." Ainsley had went days without a bath. She'd went out hunting and gotten lost in the wild. Her Mother had near had a fit during her disappearance. Ainsley? Well she'd not cared one whit. It'd been one of the most wonderful experiences of her life. She'd eventually been returned to home after having wandered close to MacLeod land. Only one thing about what he said made her brows furrowed and the slightest dislike show in cadet eyes.

Not touch her bow? Oh Lord, that would be tough. It'd be like being denied sweets! Ainsley always had bow at side and was constantly practicing with it. Not being able to touch it would likely drive her insane. Though she'd have to deal with it. It was the only way she could become an Archer. Already the words Lady of the Feather made her feel proud and on the right path.

Attention was grabbed now by the intense connecting of those strangely golden eyes to her own cadet blue ones. For a moment it was as though the General could see everything inside her. Could he tell how nervous she was? How he had intimidated her? How much the idea of not touching her bow made her feel lost? A silent prayer was offered for support. Hopefully the Lord would give her a bit of strength in this moment even if she'd just disobeyed her Ma.

"Ah may want ta quit, General, though as ye say Ah will nae. Ah do nae give in easily." Ainsley pulled at that well of inner-strength. The one her Da always told her to rely on when she felt weak. Chin lifted and jaw firmed while eyes met his with a fierce light in their depths. She would not quit.

[Dame Danae Galanos]

With Maahe's reply and the remark he made to Ainsley, she just chuckled to herself silently. The only evidence that could be seen of the merriment that filled her body was the shifting of her shoulders while a arm lifted so that a hand could discreetly cover the wide smile that spread across full lips. God how Danae missed teasing this man and the men that served under him. Picking at him and them for whatever self amusement and hopfully strengthening the bond of brotherhood. Oh well... one could hope, right?

She leaned down and whispered to Ainsley. `` A pleasure to meet you Ainsley MacKinnon.`` there would be a small pause here. ``Don't listen to him... he's just jealous.`` she teased as a hand came to gently rest of the young woman's shoulder for a bit of encouragement, for a moment but then was withdrawn as they moved forward. Did Danae really think that? Not at all... Maahes should know that by now, she would always try to have the last say in something, even if it meant just to get a rise out of him. Eyes would lift in his direction, waiting for him to turn around and comment back like a brother and sister spat usually resulted in and of course was wearing an all to knowing smile while doing so. Danae would however, let things continue and while the door had not been closed, followed behind Maahes and Ainsley quietly.

The Commander was curious as to what was about to take place and she was sure that with her being the Commander, Maahes wouldn't mind having her around to listen in on this. He might even ask her opinion about something in regards to the new recruit, to which Danae would of course happily oblige. As Maahes and Ainsley spoke, the Commander kept silent, letting those icy blue hues of her shift between the pair of them as arms came to cross over her chest as she took to leaning against the wall nearby. Everything the Lord General said was true... and honestly, Danae was impressed with the replies that Ainsley gave. The Commander had a suspecting idea that this young woman was going to become quite the archer or ranger even. The Greek woman certainly hope so at least... she had the potential and definitely the spirit.

``Just a word of advice here Ainsley MacKinnion... its that spirit that you possess that's going to give you the inner strength you will need to become better than all the rest and to help you make it through the tough times ahead. I will not hold back when I say it is not an easy task to become what it is you seek to be. The Lord General here as well as myself, should I be involved with your training, as well as others that serve with us, will not hold back. Are you certain this is something you are ready for?`` she asked the young woman once Maahes and Ainsley had finished their own exchange of words.

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

"Manners Danae? Ha." Maahes snorted, knowing full well the ranger was void of any, and sometimes he found it rather amusing. However, before his son there was very little that he let slide. Many times Lord General questioned her attitude, wondering why it was he put up with it. Had it been anyone else their necks would have long been snapped, and after the Knight from Austria he was going to keep a tighter hold. Though, he loved that woman dearly and very much so owed her his life a hundred times over. "Thank you Galanos, but I've got the Roman Church making enough of a fool of me for one day." WIth that he would offer a bow of his head and motion for her to take a seat.

Rahjad always took a liking to Danae, and quickly perched beside her in his stoic quiet manner, that only a boy of Maahes could have. Inside chubby hands there was a bit of apple that he happily offered her. Able to talk, perhaps he would have offered her some in a more polite manner, but there wasn't much that he could have to say when Daddy looked so cross. The worry was written over his face as he watched his father move back to his chair and the woman servant continue her work across the man's shoulder. The robe that had wrapped to perceive modesty pulled away to reveal a rather hurtful looking bruise that went deep and part of the bone seemed incomplete, the collar bone struck forward. Perhaps he should have waited to reveal the wound, but a large part of him wished for her to understand that no matter what the stories told, he was not invincible. Would she be ale to take such a hit?

Distraction had been his downfall in the past round of training, too soft he had gone on his men, but a lesson learned. The next who came to his doors demanding he change everything about how he did things, or told him his men were weak he'd kill right there…and he had. A knight of another nation had been buried just then, but the fate of the relationship between the two nations hadn't been threatened at all. Perhaps they had sent him forward to do just that--die.

"There are two types of archers in my army. My front force, and the Rangers. Danae is Elite Ranger." But from the look upon the girl's face she knew that already. Danae was not unknown in these parts at all, but somehow the paths between what an Archer and a Ranger were was confused. When the captain would make his appearance once more he would offer a very graceful bow of his head in appearance of the ranger, and the Lord General.

"Captain Ya'ave, will see that you get to your barracks, and if you have family you wish to say good-bye to you have until sunset. Now..if you will excuse me." Maahes closed his eyes then as the woman started to reset his shoulder, and finally start to wrap it.

Brin waited, his tall thin frame taking up nearly the entire space from floor to ceiling, but everything about him was so pleasant that even when he smiled it took away all the harsh firelight and replaced it with kindness. Was it hard to believe this man was indeed a killer? "Elite Ranger, will you walk with us?" The blonde offered as he moved to allow the others to pass.

[Ainsley MacKinnon]

Some would have stood stoic in the face of such an injury. They'd have thought that to show even the slightest cringe would be a sign of weakness. Perhaps it was? Ainsley did not know either way. Naturally her body flinched at the sight of such a wound. The instinct was to ask if the General was alright, but she avoided doing so. Such a question could definitely be taken as an insult.

Taking a deep breath, glancing away only briefly to let her eyes unwiden, Ainsley listened to the man. Would he send her away now? Perhaps such a display would be seen as weakness. Yet instead it was of the difference between a Ranger and Archer that the General spoke of.

"Ah do nae the difference, General." This was something that Ainsley spent much time thinking upon. Rangers were experts in the wild, they had a kinship with nature that others did not, while Archers were expert in bow and arrow. At least that was how she understood it.

When the man continued speaking, Ainsley fell silent. She had only spoke up to make him aware that she was not confused on the matter. Archer was what she was, and if so it happened that some day she shown the ability to become a Ranger? Well perhaps that would be a path taken. Though not at the current time. Realizing that today would be the day she'd say farewell to her Father, she turned to follow Captain Ya'ave outside.

Would Danae Galanos follow? She did not know. Ainsley mind was already on the farewell to come. Before sunset the General had said. After that her life belonged to the Griffin. No more would she be Ainsley, unruly daughter of Hamish and Brighid MacKinnon, who romped about the fields with her brother Kendrick as trusty sidekick. Absently her hands twisted as the nervousness set in. It was only to be expected of one who'd tried to be brave as much as possible during the displays and meetings.

Ah'll be a Griffin.

[Dame Danae Galanos]

Danae would remain ever silent, but would of course speak through her all to well known expressions. That was one thing that the Elite ranger was good at, letting others know exactly how she felt without ever having to say a single word. Cold icy blue hues could at times become the warm pools of merriment and friendliness. She let those all to observant eyes shift between Maahes and Ainsley as the two spoke to one another. Moving a little when necessary to remain close to be included in conversation if they wished, but keeping enough distance so that she wasn't a distraction or nuisance.

When Rahjad offered her the piece of apple once he placed himself next to her, she looked to him with a wide smile and accepted the apple. Leaning in, she whispered to him. "Thank you. That is very kind of you Rahjad." He was the perfect mixture of Maahes and Ealora. Having the qualities of his parents in the ways that mattered most no doubt. The apple was brought up for a couple bites before she wiped her fingers clean along the thigh of her pants. She glanced to Rahjad and winked.

Eyes shifted back to Maahes and Ainsly, Danae taking note of the bruise upon Maahes' form and just shaking her head softly. He was likely to have just as many scars and marks on his body as Danae did her own, if not more. Maybe one day, they could compare and count? Maahes' question was posed, and as both he and Ainsley prepared to move off, A guard came to hand deliver a message of urgency to the Elite ranger.

The parchment was unrolled, eyes of ice blue quickly read over each word carefully while her face remained ever stoic until the very end. There Danae's full lips would grow thin and she frowned. The paper was rolled up once more and she stood to her feet. "I'm afraid I will have to decline this time. Seems something has come up and my help is needed else where. It will take me away from Skye for a time... " she paused a moment and looked between all those within the room.

When she looked back to Maahes, she stepped forward. "I must go.. both my brother and I are needed. I don't have a lot of time to explain everything right now, but know that it is something that can not be ignored. I will tell you more about it upon my return. I must go now and speak with our sovereign, pack and depart." A hand came to his shoulder in a friendly gesture.

She then turned to Ainsley and Rahjad, offering first to Ainsley a nod and a soft smile. "While I regret not being able to stay and watch you start your journey with Skye as a young defender, I am certain that upon my return you will have no doubt earned the respect of many and have improved your skills beyond comparison to most of your age and station. Just remember to stay true to yourself, to the reasons you do what it is you do, and why it is you do it, perhaps even for who."

Danae then turned to Rahjad. "Again, thank you for the apple and when I return, I shall give you something that I will have gained from my travels. A surprise even, but make sure you continue to mind your father and your mother, hm?" she said as she squatted down for a moment to his eye level and a hand to his small shoulder. "You are much like your father... and that is not at all a terrible thing. I'm sure you already know how good of a man your father is." she added with a small smirk.

Danae then rose to her full statuette height and nodded to them all before passing a couple others and made her way out to the hall. From there she'd make her way to speak with Beathag and Adam before going by to speak with Ren where they would pack and take their leave. A journey across lands to aide old friends from long ago.