Vercovicium {Open}

[Bane Oakenshield]

The unloading of the transports was done swiftly, land based armed forces never being too fond of being on water for too long potentially against elements they couldn’t control. Bane had watched it all from the dockside of Berwick, the Scottish port city on the east coast just south of Edinburgh. Even now there was evidence of the devastation that Edward Longshanks had caused when he had marched into Scotland originally in 1295 and killed thousands of men, women and children. Bane shivered at the memory, he had been only five at the time but could always remember the conversations when his father had to proceed to Berwick and sign the ragman roll – an act of humiliating homage that all Scottish landowners had to give to the English King for their lands. Now, however, was the present and times had changed significantly.

The Regiment of the Greys was, by all accounts, a modern regiment when fully mustered based on several models from the European and Middle Eastern armed forces. Bane had stood back after briefing the senior officers and watched as the first battalions moved out. There were five thousand men in the regiment with two thousand horse, five hundred longbowmen, five hundred musketeers and two thousand infantry made up primarily of pikemen. The cavalry were roughly the same as most border horse, though smaller in stature compared to the horses normally employed by armies they were taller than Shetland ponies and far more nimble. It was a horse of this breed, for example, that Robert the Bruce had ridden when he had killed De Bohun at Bannockburn in a duel. They earned the name Mosstroopers being able to harass the enemy as well as charge enemy formations, all cavalrymen being armed with two flintlock pistols and sabres. The infantry were pikemen but also armed with sword and flintlock pistol just in case.

What made the Regiment even more special was the fact it was built of volunteers. Initially after the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, Bane had sought, and been given, permission to raise one thousand volunteers from the lands of Carrick, Ayr, Dumfries and Galloway and Annandale and once fully mustered and given some basic training had moved to the continent to fight in the French wars against the English. Even there volunteers came to the now famous dark grey banner including Irish, Welsh and even English.

Fighting in France dwindled down after an argument with several French nobles in which Bane took the regiment to Spain and fought for Alfonso against the Almohads before eventually leaving there too, though under happier circumstances, and moved east. It was in the east that Bane found his love for the Ancient Romans, a civilisation he respected and admired for what it had achieved above all others and eventually fought for the last remnants of their Empire with the Byzantines against the growing Ottoman and Egyptian Empires.

And then it was finally time to come home to Scotland, and what a change had happened to the once freedom loving country. In his mind Scotland had become what England used to be, it dominated where before it had only sought it’s own freedom and the freedom of the rest of the Celtic people. Now it subjugated England, claimed that Ireland and Wales were protectorates. Hells, it wouldn’t even surprise him if they were looking over at France now and rekindling some Norman claim to the French throne. Was this what he had fought for? He touched heels to his horse and began moving forward taking his place in the centre of the massive column as they made there way south first to Newcastle some twenty miles away before going to Vercovicium or Housesteads as it was more commonly known in this day and age.

Vercovicium, which in English meant the House of the Brave Fighters, was originally a Roman fort based on Hadrians Wall, that massive eighty two mile fortification that for hundreds of years had kept the soft Roman south protected from the northern barbarians. It was his plan to rebuild and repair the fort, even expand it, and use it as a base for his own men.

Taking the military road west they encountered little trouble from the local Border Reivers, not even they were stupid enough to take on a body of five thousand men that looked like they meant business. It was interesting for Bane as they marched for men spoke of Bane Oakenshield, the Captain of the Grey in hushed tones – men obviously veterans of past conflict with the regiment. What was even more interesting was the amount of talk about a young man who hadn’t been seen for years named James Bruce, an infamous cavalry commander who had ridden alongside the Black Douglas into England several times in raiding parties. Reaching the fort on the third day of their march, Bane halted the column and took a dozen cavalrymen from his own division up to check the fort and see if it would still be habitable. Taking the long road up the steep hill he had to admire the way the Romans had built it long and straight, almost defying nature by making it so. He could see the walls of the fort for several miles as well as the adjoining walls of Hadrians massive fortification, but up close it was something else entirely.

The gates were wrecked and rotting away and they were able to ride into the fort with little trouble, Bane simply stared around him in amazement noticing the barracks and stables as well as the ancient Headquarters were once the Legionary Eagle would have sat in the strong room. The fort was in a better state than he could have hoped for with only one or two buildings looking as if they were going to fall down and few roofs needing repairing – it would probably only take a week or two weeks to get everything sorted. Bane nodded to one of the cavalrymen and he turned about and moved to bring in the regiment. Once more Vercovicium would be alive with the sounds of armed fighting men trying to make their home in otherwise inhospitable country.

The Governors of Carlisle and Newcastle would be sent deputation to look for supplies while the settlements around the border would be visited, looking for volunteers to set up home in the civilian settlement that was on the eastern side of the fort just outside the walls.

Yes, Vercovicium would rise up.

"Raise the grey banner on the gate towers in the north, south, east and west walls. Have the regiment see themselves to their quarters." The second in command of the regiment, a man named Dunwal, saluted and began jobbing men off to specific tasks whether it was repairing roofs or shoring up buildings so they wouldn't fall down. Bane grinned and looked to the north and then the south, not seeing the capital cities of each country but certainly picturing the reaction when they heard of what was transpiring in their border.

[Bane Oakenshield]

Vercovicium was built on top of a hill with steep edges on both sides facing north and south and, rather than most Roman forts which intruded into supposed barbarian land, Vercovicium was built into the wall and incorporated it into the defensive features. Every Roman fort was principally the same. It would be of a rectangular design and capable of holding up to eight hundred men, though towards the later Roman Empire Vercovicium had been modified to include much of the civilian populace that used to reside outwith the settlement – hence why Bane was able to billet his five thousand men of the Grey Regiment. However, a few of the men were having to hot bunk whereby they would be in a one in two watchbill and thus would rotate beds amongst them.

Because of the location of Vercovicium there was no need for the usual wide ditch that usually surrounded the fort, however Bane, not knowing in which direction any threat was possibly going to come from was having a series of ditches dug in the south, east and west. A smaller, ultimately more shallow ditch would perhaps be incorporated into the northern stretch though Bane judged the sheer climb and Hadrians Wall would deter all but the most determined of attackers. Added to these defensive ditches were large spikes fixed into the ground at tactical points to stop, or at least slow down, most cavalry charges as well as caltrops scattered around about in the ditches themselves - though of course there were safe to navigate points leading up to the north, south, west and east gates. Watchtowers were also built into the walls themselves at the four corners reaching up to a height of thirty metres above the height of the wall giving the fort and even greater tactical outlook and a wider range of visibility.

Bane walked around the fort talking to groups of soldiers as he went, making sure he conducted routine rounds thoroughly and properly. He took it upon himself to make sure the men knew exactly what was happening, even going so much as to help them in repairing or building works. Yes, it wasn’t technically the politic thing to do, and nor was it becoming of an officer to some degree but Bane was of the view that an officer who didn’t at least try to help out even in some of the most simplest of tasks wasn’t worth his salt. At the end of the day, in a battle you were supposed to know you could rely on the man to your immediate left or your immediate right – you couldn’t necessarily do that if somebody had ideas above their station. That was not to say there wasn’t discipline in the Regiment, just that some social distinctions were tossed out of the window at a very early stage.

What pleased him even more was the fact that travellers had come to the fort to set up home, merchants had even come from the likes of Newcastle and Carlisle and even Dumfries to trade their wares meaning that Vercovicium was fast becoming an important area for both commerce and military reasons. Dunwal was the first to join him.

“Still nothing from the local border reivers, sir” said Dunwal, Bane merely smiled and nodded noticing the first sign of rain in the otherwise quiet afternoon.

“No, Dunwal, I reckon we’re going to be alright for the meantime old friend. Still though, I think it’s best if we keep the outriders out just in case. Have we heard any more word from the local family clans in the area?” Dunwal shook his head.

“Most of the border families have their own problems at the moment, Bane. The Armstrongs and Elliots are still roaming against the rememenants of the Spanish, though I’ve sent a couple of our junior officers to discuss terms with their clan leaders. On the English side we’ve already started speaking with the Wilkinsons and Collingwoods” Dunwal grinned, “They seem pretty keen actually to fight under someone who goes by the name of Oakenshield but looks like Bruce.” Bane grinned with him both men sharing in the memory. Dunwal and Bane had grown up together, both fighting in the same battles whether they were on the battlefield or in a pub brawl.

“Ah, the stuff of Legends! They were heady times with Jamie Douglas weren’t they?” Dunwal nodded.

“The Black Douglas....gather round the fire children whilst I tell my tale, lest demons lurk in the shadows.” Bane chuckled before bursting out in laughter. “I’d say you’ve assumed his title nicely, though I will admit that some of the lads overheard you speaking to Rhi earlier on – they seem quite taken with this King Beyond the Gate nickname.” Bane nodded.

“The mens morale is good, aye?” Dunwal nodded. “Good, I take it the families are slowly joining as well?”

“Aye, friend. It’s good to see them to be honest, you could almost believe that Vercovicium could become a home in a few months time.” Dunwal was originally from Stranraer, a port town on the edge of Galloway and thus had been used as a staging post a few times by the Scots for ventures into Ireland.

“I will say this though, Dunwal mate. Somebody needs to improve the bloody officers mess. I’ve told you for months that the cook is just a glorified food warmer and, no, don’t interrupt, he might be a friend of yours but he can’t cook to save his life. I gave him a chance when were in the field but he has no excuse now when we’re actually inside.” Dunwal grinned at him before nodding. “I’ll have some of the platoon officers look into getting a replacement, I’ll imagine the idea of light duties would sound great to the boys and we’ll have a different cook every night until we find a better one. If memory serves, he was a bloody good blacksmith. Have him come to me later on, I might have some work for him in relation to ballista to be placed on the watchtowers.”
“Anymore word from the Scots?”

“What, you mean the Queen? Oh we got on famously. She laid down her terms and her version of events. I demanded to know who her husband was. Her bodyguard said something, I threatened to claim him. You know, usual sort of stuff. I think we could become very good friends, I should add her to my Christmas letter list.”

“What else did you say to her?” Dunwal asked, a faint smile playing on his lips even though he tried to give off the air of the resigned. He knew how Bane reacted and was happy to see that familiar grin spreading across his lips.

“Nothing much, to be honest. Said who I was, said who I really was, said what I might or might not do.”

“Which was?”

“Fight for the Spanish or fight for the English or just generally be a bastard and raid everyone. It’s funny, she actually thinks I’m some sort of mercenary brigand leader at the moment. I always create such a good impression with people in authority.”

“Hence the defensive works?”

“No, those were necessary anyway for several reasons.” Dunwal looked at him, nodding for him to continue. Normally when Bane had one of these ideas it was best to listen intently lest you get lost in the thought process.

“Firstly, we need the new defensive lines. The Walls are good, but I want them built up properly over the next couple of weeks and any soft areas taken care of. So, to reinforce them in the meantime we’ll build up the defensive ditches. Secondly, it adds a psychological element to our own men, the more defensive it seems the better it is for them because they will feel safer – so will outlying people who will come to the fort and build their home outside it, maybe even farmsteads, and generally give us what supplies we need. Third reason is any potential enemy, it shows that we’re here to stay.”

“Can’t argue with you there, mate. Right, I’ll go see to the construction works taking place in the settlement outside and I’ll see you in the officers mess later for a couple of pints?” Bane nodded.

“Could do with a pint actually” said Bane.

“Good, settled then. I’ll see you later, Bane, take care.”

[Queen Beathag Aberdeen]

The Meeting of Two Lines


Captain Bane Oakenshield

Rhi had stayed the night and was still asleep in the bedroom when Bane had swiftly donned his clothes and walked out of the Principles, the Headquarters building which had once housed a Legatus of Rome. He walked down the corridor, the light streaming through the windows as he considered the history in this fort. At one point eight hundred men slept, worked, lived and died here. Now there was five thousand men of the Grey Regiment, building and repairing as they sought to make Vercovicium there home and make a difference. He opened the door leading to the road facing south to north, for there were always principally two primary roads in a roman fort - one north to south, one east to west. It was built on a steep hill, on both sides where on a clear day you could see well past the border of Scotland. He stretched, arms outwide as he breathed in the fresh countryside air hearing the normal noises associated with a body of men in a campsite. He smiled noticing that some of the travellers were already living up to their promise of helping his own men repair some of the roofs and buildings which had fallen into disrepair. All, for the moment, was right in the World (d)

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

The world was a place where a state of rightness was so subjective that it could change by person, let alone the personal feeling of a quarter hour. Notherumberland country passed under hoof at full gallop atop the back of the large destrier baring a woman instead of a man. Water soaked earth viewed from a distant lake's shore made her think of things under Bromlee Lough's quiet waves. Having foot on English soil meant it was time to reckon with the past, longer than the stretch of land. Deeper still, out beyond the sea, memories made the woman atop the horse see what was instead of what is. "We are here, my lady, look." Verocovium wasn't the home to Roman sentries any longer , but men of the Isles pushing stone. Through golden curtain she spied through slivers in it the progress made at undoing the ravages of time. Time - what a strange, fickle thing that they negotiated with even before a meeting took place. In her forty years within the world, it was one that burned itself on the retina to stay always a picture frozen in the mind. "Then let us be closer, then." By now the party would be spotted by a vigilant watch. Inward, she thought it would be a watch vigilant given the precarious conditions on which they settled. Someone's bane, someone's good Will. Had they slipped in during the war-time to stand tall as the last cannon shot's smoke faded? Despite the strange feel that might rise between them, the new Queen took pride in the work of isle men on this site. (d)


Captain Bane Oakenshield

Grey banners floated lazily in the breeze above the battlements of the fort, a dark grey with broad white lines of the saltire. "Captain Oakenshield, sir, sentries report a group of cavalry coming from the South" "Thank you Lieutennent Dunwal, take you'll be going off watch soon?" "Aye, sir, been a bit of a long night with the repair parties but it's getting there" Bane nodded, knowing all too well. He had risen through the junior officer ranks himselfand knew only too well that the most junior tended to get, in effect, shafted for duties. He saluted to the man and turned about on his heel and began walking up the road towards the northern gate tower. When he reached it even he had to pause, not so much being out of breath but at the sheer majesty of the situation. It was a steep climb but there was a road leading up to the fort, straight and defiant of natures other plans. Even the wall, a wall he knew stretched for another eighty six miles was never bending and never twisting unless it was absolutley necessary, a sheer statement of power. "Don't summon the guard, yet" He told the watch officer, he fully expected trouble from any side but was willing to wait just now. In the meantime the sounds of camp happily continued, oblivious to a large extent of what may potentially being go on (d)

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"In m'years, twas the one thing o' England that I appreciated, This wall. The length n' breadth..the history of it. As Bromlee Lough did, this place speaks to me." The senior officer among the continent trotted up to her right, "are you certain you shall go through this this, your majesty? This is no place for a woman, nor for what might come." He followed the commands he was given, but voiced his disagreeance in tones of respect. Were it not for his place, they would have sooner settled at Bromlee Lough than the imposing old Roman fort of Verovicium. "You will find no friends here. None keen on what you represent." With a nod of head she pushed onward to the narrow passage for the incline. Much akinto move upward, so had she. Hands within gloves were not always inside of them. Royalty has no calloused hands among women, nor hanging scars. The daughter of ship-builders, smithies, and harpers were still as servants no matter how close they came to the grandeuer of the annointed head. Progressing onward was her answer, straight backed with none leading the horse for her. "We have come tae meet as the dispensation asked, havin' elected tae come tae you, instead of awaiting to see if we would meet within the middle. We are of their majesties the King n' Queen!" He could put any herald to shame with a voice that prolific, moving up the rocky incline to whomever might listen. The clothing she wore was fine, but not so obvious as to earmark her. (d)

Captain Bane Oakenshield

He grinned from ear to ear as he heard the summons and leaned forward on the crenalated battlement his hands clasped in front of him as he looked at the deputation. Far too small to be an attacking force. The Grey Regiment was a modern fighting force. The Cavalry were a local breed having been raised voluntarily in the lands of Dumfries and Galloway as well as Annandale, Mosstroopers. Their horses were smaller compared to some of the stallions, but more nimble and yet taller than a Shetland pony. It was a similar type of horse that Robert the Bruce had used at Bannockburn and killed De Bohun so easily. Each cavalryman carried two flintlock pistols as well as a sabre. Infantry were similar, though they were primarily equipped with pike with sword and pistol used only for close quarters. What Bane took greater pride in was the Welsh longbowmen, some five hundred in all as well some five hundred musket
men. Sentries were always armed with muskets and he heard a couple of clicks as men made ready. He coughed slightly, the order though quietly given and in a subtle manner was obvious. Men stood down. He cleared his voice and spoke, his voice rich and resonant almost an representative of the hills that were around him. "Lady, I recognise the nation of Scotland coming to visit and I am indeed honoured. However, I suggest for the reasons of good diplomacy that you perhaps soften your tone. We have travelled far, slept little and could be mistaken for a little irritated, especially when addressed as children! I am Captain Bane Oakenshield of the Regiment of Greys, who do I have the honour of speaking to?" He had never been raised in court with his father, instead he had been brought up in the field with him. (d)


Queen Beathag Aberdeen

The men atop their horses were a number enough to guard a life but not enough for a full fledged battle. On the narrow rise they packed about as much as they could manage. An arm reached out to capture her back but inspite of it all she arched a brow. Musket click flew out like bird wings before the voice sought to play with the 'herald maiden' down below. "I am sorra m'tone doth offend sir! May ye find peace this day and after, my tone might soften if we needn't yell back and forth over the wall, otherwise it will seem a horn blast instead of a dove's coo? None would seek to call ye children, we are merly o' a philosophy that says there is nay need to await a neighbor when one as neighbor might make the call. Captain Oakenshield, ye speak tae the Lady Beathag Aberdeen, wife o' Lord Adam Aberdeen, Lord o' the Isles, King o' Scotland n' England, and by God's Grace Protector o' Ireland and Wales..yet tha' seems rather pretencious tae throw o'er wall sides." She waited, while admiring the make of what lay over the wall to cease them at a moment's notice. Beathag was an appreciator to this day of well made weaponry. (d)

Captain Bane Oakenshield "I must admit, I have never heard of this Aberdeen fellow. Perhaps, when I permit you in, you could tell me in which battles he fought or where he was in 1306?" The anger was swift to rise and slow to decline, he took a breath before calming down. Highlanders always had the same affect on him. They pretended to be Scottish more than anything else, simply because their lands had not been burned before their eyes and their people killed. No, it had been the lowlands to suffer such misfortunes. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Beathag. I shall give orders for the gates to be opened and you and your men may enter." "What about their weapons, sir?" asked the watch officer. "Let them keep them, anything else would be an insult. Of course, if they are looking for trouble, they will think it an insult that we let them keep their weapons. Open up the gates, have your watch go out and escort them in. I'll be on the this side of the wall" The man saluted, turned about on his heel and began shouting off the necessary orders. The gates were opened and a small column of men split into two files of six men each as they lined up the road leading into the fort, pikes were grounded in front of their faces as they waited for the deputation to begin their march forward. Bane stood on the other side of the gate, waiting. (d)


Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"Nay, I do nay suspect ye would have, it is my name n' ours both by advent o' marriage. If ye so choose I might tell ye wot ye would ask, if the same favor is granted?" Men. Indignant creatures who flared up only to simmer own whenit served them. "Lady.." "Hush. We be advancin' forward now. Keep ye still, n' vigilant is all I ask." "You are going to be the most loathed being in there?" "Oh? If it is sae, tis sae. Nay all men must love me, my lord. Love, trust, respect, tis all earned. If this men feel tis nay been earned it need nay be given." "And what of basic courtesy?" "Well we have nay been shot nor tied, tis a start." As the gates opened the roadside became lined with men, the first of many faces to pay them hatred no doubt. Leg's squeezed, ankles gentle went to the horse's flanks as they went forward. Eyes dug through the armor and souls of the men who gave their fealty to the griffin. Who was it, and what? An upstart promising freedom but behaving as the ancient nation that once built this fort? She felt the eyes pry her too, this woman married to such a man, while at the same time appraising her on a basic level. The Lady Aberdeen was a giantess in the saddle which would make her one once she came to the ground. Some who watched at a distance fathomed she had the height of a man, which was quite true. At six feet she saw over a great many Scott's heads in her lifetime. Her eyes were a vivid green, her skin done well for her fabled age as if she were perhaps ten years younger, save for the lines against her eyes indicative of an expressive soul. The golden head was a gift from her father's heritage.On the same level of appraisal she viewed their work, not thinking them lesser-than men. All had their opinions, and all should be privy to giving or keeping it. It was the way of the reign (d)


Captain Bane Oakenshield

"Miss, I welcome you to the fort of Vercovicium, home of the Regiment of the Greys. I am Captain Bane Oakenshield" He stood at six foot one himself, his bearing proud and his shoulders squared. He wore, in comparison to this lady, very basic clothing. A simple dark grey shirt over black trousers on which his belt hung, carrying a rapier on the right and dagger on the left as well as two flintlock pistols tucked into his belt. He took his temper from his
eldest Uncle, though he could remember each one well. Nigel, his fathers favourite, the level headed and charismatic. Edward, hot tempered and an expert cavalry commander as well as Thomas and Alexander - quiet men who preferred to study. "If it would seem right, your men may make their home in whichever mess they please depending on their rank while you and I talk and discuss whatever it is you feel is necessary to discuss in my headquarters." He smiled, a disarming smile as it was, but tensions were high. The throne which she claimed she represented was an entirely different throne for which he had fought so many years before and continued to enhance the reputation in Europe many years after. (d)

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"Thank ye sir. Tis a pleasure to meet ye, n' God keep your Regiment. Tis said ye all have made quite a name for yourselves on the continent n' abroad further." At one inch's difference they had the advantage of relative eye level. He dressed like a man who favored the might of his mind to that of appearance sake,yet practicality would come before attempts at first impressions. He dressed in a way that was not unfamiliar to her, as she looked fine, yet not so pretencious as to be of the world's finest courts this day. Deep tan kirtle was laced at the sides to where she wore a chemise of soft wool, for even in Summer weather proved fickle. For jewerly the silver Griffin her husband gave as a birthday present upon her 36th birthday dangled down, catching flashes of light. The golden circlet sat about the head with little fanfare. Road dust too had come to be apart of her attire, as well as the sound of boots underfoot. "If it should sae please them, " Tension pulled tighter as the men were reluctant to leave her be. What would he do, what would he say while doing it? "Gae, one of ye stay. I dun nay like such stares between countrymen." Of the fifteen that rode, fourteen bowed to take their leave so that a Norseman known as Brom remained. "Brom is one o' m'honor guard, he will listen ye he will be as if he is not there. Always speak freely, Captain Oakenshield." She would follow where he lead, wondering how their two views of history would go. Oil and water, no doubt. He would never believe her, even if she found belief in him. It would be a strange
affair. (d)


Captain Bane Oakenshield

"He can speak his mind, I am not that fond of European courts ideas of servitude" He said almost at a growl, such ideas of servitude had nearly cost the Duke of Milan dear when the Greys had taken up post along his major trade route and showed him the Scottish ideal. He began speaking again "This fort was built in 122 AD at the height of the Roman Empire when it stretched from the borders of Scotland all the way through to the now dead Parthian Empire. It is a reflection, and a reminder, of all that man can achieve and all that man can lose in folly" A warning perhaps, maybe even a metaphor? "In this fort we have barracks for the men and officers, we have two granaries raised on stilts soas to prevent rats - and my men are also rebuilding the old bathhouse and gym where Roman soldiers used to train and relax. Outside is a settlement," He smiled at that point remembering Rhi and her travelers who were staying the night and indeed were working with the soldiers to bring the fort to working order. Not that it was falling apart, rather it was the opposite, it just needed to freshning up in certain places where wear and tear had taken their toll. They approached the headquarters building, right in the centre of the base near the stables and Bane allowed the woman to go in first before leading them to one of the offices which he used. In the other ones were clerks, busyat work already organising trade links with the community at large in the area. So far so good. He had even taken, perhaps a melodramatic stance, to put the Regimental Colours inside the strong room where a Roman Legionary Eagle once stood. He offered her a seat before taking one himself at the opposite end of the desk. "So how can Oakenshield help the nation of Scots then?" (d)

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"If it should please ye, Sir Brom, offer your opinion at leisure." They trode on careful observance of certain things when away from home. Brom canted his head, "I am a quite soul, Majesty," "Nay always sae, m'friend." He put hishands behind his back and allowed the Queen ahead of him as she listened to Oakenshield describe the progress of what was coming to Vercovicium, what was its history. Green eyes guaged the architecture that lasted beyond the glory days of Rome with a fair eye, nodding at the talk of granaries, of what was rebuilt, and who settled. "It would be a lie tae say I'm but a little impressed, Captain Oakenshield, indeed I'm greatly impressed by what you n' yours have accomplished here thus far. How long have you called Vercovicium a place to settle?" Once inside of the office, she refused Brom's services to see her seated, being quite capable of doing so herself. He was used to this, so settling in a chair not far from hers as for now he was content to only listen. "I'm also impressed by the brotherhood among yer men, n' the nature of your accomplishments on the continent in such brotherhood. I'll be plain n' seek nay offense in askin' this, but I want tae know your intentions, tha' they be nay to cause harm to any on either side of this wall. What is it ye seek to do, exactly, if ye have ambitions to fill." (d)

Captain Bane Oakenshield

"We have lived in this land for nigh on a week now. We came from the port of Berwick by way of Newcastle and marched along the old military road until we reached here, passing the old milecastles and a few forts which have fallen into a complete state of disrepair. As I am sure you are aware, Miss, right now we are around thirty miles from the capital of Cumbria which is Carlisle" He thought of the ancient castle and her burgh and smiled a little, good memories, often when he was not supposed to be there simply for being Scottish. Good tales to tell with the men, good tales to think on during lonely nights! "And of course thirty miles from the new fortifications settling up around the place of Newcastle" Which was not strictly true, Newcastle had long had an establishment based around the River Tyne including the old Roman fort of Segentunum, but it was only during the reign of the Edward I, may his soul rot in the nine Hells, that it had become a proper military establishment. "As for my men and I, we have fought together a long time, particularly I and the Scots. I asked for volunteers from Annandale, Dumfries and Galloway, Carrick and Ayr and raised some one thousand men. During our service with the King of France we encountered many more; including English, Welsh and Irish. We have gone to war together, bled together, lived together but ultimatley laughed together. And madam, if you don't mind me saying so, there is a cliche surronding military forces saying that the brotherhood is earned on the battlefield. I won't disagree, it's a vital part, but what is important is the laughter and the fact that each man can trust the other to know the limits and thus depend on them." He gave thought to his intentions, not really thinking beyond making his point by inhabiting the walls of Vercovicium. "My intentions are as you see them, ma'am. I have five thousand men out there whose lives depend on me. I am accountable to no higher authority than them and their families" He had an old fashioned idea when it came to leadership having watched his father forge the band of few into many. "We are here to realise a dream." (d)

Queen Beathag Aberdeen


"A seven day is not much, yet tis many a repairs ye have already done. Aye, sir, I am aware of where we sit." Further listening as she settled comfortable in the chair, hands folded in her lap as one leg crossed the other in a gesture not garish, yet not lady defined as it was not upon ankle. She healed over the posture slightly as she listened a moment, grinning at the mention of laughter "Laughter heals a mind n' soul where medicine may not reach, war tends tae tear people apart to some degree while a good laugh will bind them tight.It is good to have such company surroundin' ye, n' five thousand strong is a testament to such power of the truth in a brotherhood. Kinship is born in the heart." Thencame the mention of his intentions, to which she added, "Tae repair the border between England n' Scotts with 5,000 men, n' to call it home. There is nay a man alive tha' does nay need a home. Some roam the world o'er searching for it. You consider yourself nay accountable tae a higher power, though some would beg tae argue, I wouldn't." She said in complete honesty, looking to the door where they came, "It is better tha' 5,000 men have love o' themselves n' one another, pride in what they dae. If anythin ye are accountable only tae your God for their safe-keepin." Heaven was higher than any throne on earth. "It has been calm then, for ye here, in the wake of the war England has fought with the Spanish seekin tae reclaim throne in the name o' Alfonso IV? If tha' is sae ye may find yerself visited from time tae time, by others o' Scotts, o' the English Court. The Spanish tried to replicate your idea, sir, to no success. Will ye garner them the same courtesy as ye've given my party? The Chief Architect n' his engineers were given a commision to repair the fallen portions of the wall, to make it habitable. So long as you give them peace, I will see they give ye the same. They have given themselves to service in the face of much danger, n' like yerself with your men, they put some of themselves into my hands." Her husband's want to free oneplace lent itself to others, and in his throat lay a voice that captivated enough that now they kept many lives in their hands. No, she hadn't wanted it at first. She thought that the Bruce leaving him as Protector of Scotts would come to no thing other than what they'd spent the years thus far avoiding; a sign of unity to what could be chaining: crowns. "I also imagine tha' the Duke, Lord Plantagenet will wish tae see as his time will allow. Yes, as ye may have heard tha' Plantagenet is the former King's son. " That was a crazed idea, so crazed that his sisters were now as her sister, and the young man had become somewhat special unto her heart. In a way she found it terribly odd, if not almost sorrowful strange, he sat on a reformed birthright, one not even he wished to correct. Perhaps, to him, the throne was damaged by the Queen's departure and betrayal by a Spanish marriage. "Sae long as yer objectives stay peaceable, this is all I ask. Have yer home, have yer men find peace for tis well deserved and long overdue, nay doubt. I was told ye wished tae meet with m'self or m'husband, sae thus I wanted to meet with you as well." Was it to verify, with his own eyes, what had come to pass, in looking on one of them (d)


Captain Bane Oakenshield

"Lady, I will not keep you in the dark. I am of the Bruce blood. My father was King of Scots and I fought with him through Metheven, Glen Trool and Loudon Hill. I was with him at Bannockburn. I was the one who had to tell my father that his brother, the High King of Ireland, was murdered by his own allies and that thousand of Scots who had fought with us for years had also been butchered by his own father in law. I am, to all intents and purposes, the rightfulKing of Scots." There was the steel fist beneath the velvet glove. Oh yes, Oakenshield could be the diplomat when he wanted but by Gods he was a General and a Captain of men first. He looked at her, the normal genial nature in his eyes somewhat disappearing to be replaced by cold hard steel. "What I do with my own men, ma'am, is my own decision. I have fought with Alfsono IV in Spain against the Almohads. It was my cavalry squadron that came to the rescue of James, the Black, Douglas when he was beset on all sides by the Muslims before his eventual death. I know this country, madam. I have fought and bled for it. I will not choose sides. As far as I am concerned the Scotland I fought for is long dead, Scotland has become more like the England of old! No, what I fight for now is for my own men. One day this fort you see here will be a testament to five thousand men who tried to make a difference. There will be, God willing, schools and universities and hospitals here as well as Churches. This will be a fair place where any man can call his home without fear of subjugation. This, lady, is the true realm of Scots - not this Empire which you and your husband seek to build!" It needed saying. (d)


Brom of the North

"It is indeed the Queen's business, and how would you know what is..given your absence.." Brom snarled as he spoke, it seemed rather lofty for a man who had settled in for a week and some days to judge the condition of the land and such assumptions of the woman infront of him, "Fine objective, strange thing when they have been their Majesties objectives before his Holiness conferred his blessing upon the decision of placing a crown upon their heads, as witness under God. Rising from.": He brewed..to which Beathag looked at him in a gentle, stern manner

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"Thank ye, Brom, but tis alright. We have ne'er earned respect, nor truth, or even one day say love by force. Tis the man's right tae hold his opinion and he is son o' the Bruce. We will pay him heed, n' great respect in tha' for his blood has done." Brom had a slightly differing opinion but the memory of a man from Norway was shorter than Beathag's, "I will nay quarrel with ye o'er wot is nor what was," Humor abandoned, civility maintained at a cold shift as she leaned over the desk just so, "Twill be a fine place indeed, tis Northumberland, though. N' ye make accusation o' empire while ye sit 'pon a wall straddlin' two lands tha' 'pon the time o' a week agone ye seek tae make yer own. Emprical ideas needn't size o' grandeur tae make themselves evident, sir. As ye are a son o' the Bruce , I will ask ye plain if ye've the heart tae listen tae the last five years worth o' time, but if nay know this. He conferred upon m'husband his title, with the pope's own dispensation. His holiness had been present at the coronation tha' sealed our ducal titles when we were named Mo'r Ouksela and Mo'r Triath, respectively, o' the unified nations. His same bullion came again, durin the coronation o' the kingship, this very year. Have yer opinions n' yer ideas for by all means they are yours. Ye bleed for them and none would take them from you, I would see it nay to be tha' way, but let us be perfectly plain about where we each sit, n' why. M'name sir, is Beathag Aberdeen, n' mother Murieall, n' the women before her werewomen o' the harp. Which is tae say they sat in many a kings courts in these isles, favorin' their home above all others..n' servin with their fingers tae keep history. I was your father's harper nigh tae the moment' o' his death, playin at his head. E'en in the dark times which out o' respect fer ye I shan't speak of, when those tha' loved him were hurt by him they still loved him. Wot ye dae with yer men is also my concern because they have fallen under by careby God or someone sayin' Aye, follow them. They needn't love the King nor m'self o'en care if we exist for us tae care o' them. This is why I hope ye keep it peacable here. Evidently, 5,000 men believe in ye. Tha' is a significant number I pray ye won't give o'er tae brigandry. N' tha' Alfonso ye fought for now has all o' spain in the palm o' his hand, chokes trade through the strait o' Gibraltar, n has put the men n'women o' these isles alike through the paces o' his Inquisition. Sae:" She leaned back then from the desk, silent. Waiting. What would the next topic of conversation be? Graveled alto was thick, deep and lyrical, even in anger. (d)


Captain Bane Oakenshield

He grinned at the Norwegian bodyguard "I suggest you keep your tongue, Norway, otherwise I'll damn well claim ye. Your Kind are under the rule of the Bruces at the moment, it was my aunt who married your King of Norway." He thought over her words, he had heard tales of these dark days but refused to believe them. He knew his father, he knew his mind and nothing was ever going to persuade him of otherwise. "What my ideas are, ma'am, at this time are my own. But let me say this, the north of England at the moment is very vulnerable and has previously paid homage to King Robert Bruce at the point of the sword of his son. I am James Bruce and the name still sparks respect and fear inthe hearts of Northern England, and commands respect in Annandale and Galloway and Carrick with Ayr. My bloodline, indeed my deeds, ring true. Not only that, but others have heard of Bane Oakenshield. In this time of legends and deeds miss, will you really try to anger that which others respect when your entire northern frontier could go over to the side of an unkown as well as your western coast which would block you off from Ireland - which need I remind you still has some feelings for my Uncle Edward Bruce and my stepmother Elizabeth de Burgh of Ulster." Brave words for a man with five thousands swords at his back, from what he gathered he still had one of the most experienced and technologically advanced armies in Europe even though he was outnumbered. (d)


Brom of the North "My name is Brom, Oakenshield. Your Aunt n' her King have been fine allies of the Griffin for as long as its stood, and better unto Scotland, I've seen." Claim him? He went to walk to the side of his Queen who'd risen to continue the conversation.

Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"Aye, North England is vunerable as it endured the highest cost o' the Spanish battles n' infact was the Spanish North Country until it was recently reclaimed. The world is nay the world ye left behind James Bruce sae allow me tae fill it in. Ireland is o'erseen quite well from ulster, but by the elected o' the Clan U'Niell, yer stepmother has precious little tae dae with tha', it's govenor is the Duke Jack Flynn U'Niell n' his wife is Maurgerite. Currently the English who can't quite seem tae let the past gae are causin trouble, to which England sent wot men it could spare to assist, given the rest were fightin n' bleedin across the land for the last week ye sae fortunately inhabit. Norway is an ally o' ours, God be praised n' remain sae, has come to aid when asked n' we are as friends. M'father was from Norway, n' my stepfather. Norway, as ye call him, is Brom. M'children are thus part Norwegian n' we are fluent in its language. Sit on the wall as ye damn please fer as I said sae long as ye aren'tkillin people nor raidin ye may sit. The son o' the Bruce is owed much, n' do nay think I am nay aware. M'brothers went tae Bannockburn, many of my men went tae Bannockburn n' they tae this day, will seek tae find nay ill will taethe man tha' united them. If ye are gaein tae sit on the wall, Sir, than ye should at least have the sense tae look about ye?:" No, his men were among the most technologically advanced, but the realm had long since had forces patterned aorund gun power weaponry. He would meet muskets on the field if he ever engaged them, flintlocks, newly designed cannons, advanced calvary divisions as well as the uniqueness of their men on foot as led by the large Egyptian-Arab called a General. "Hopefully, if ye dae somethin' prudent, my lord will investigate his new holdings, perhaps assist in the rebuilding o' wot was ruined and journey tae Cumbria's capital where there was a horrible sign o' Spanish hospitality. If ye've a week stomach I'd not look at the ruins bein' burned in Yorkshire. We could trade names n' reasons all the live long day, m'lord, or ye could give me wot word ye are capable of. I dun want yer fealty, I dun want yer respect, I want yer assurance ye will nay harm those 5,000 men , tha' ye will dae well by those in these regions whether they recognize one government or the other. They've been ravaged, brutally." The woman was stone hard yet hadn't asked for him to leave, step down, or other such foolish gestures ofbig headed ideals or shows of 'power'. "Is it nay possible to at least call the son o' the Bruce friend and ally in tha' one way where we are both o' same opinion?" (d)

Captain Bane Oakenshield

"It depends on what you call friend. What if I was to raid the area?" Not that he had any intention of doing so, but so long as it was enough to make the woman think then it'd be a fair one. He didn't care what supposed threat lay, he had defeated Ottomons before when he fought for the Byzantines and, to be fair, was slightly annoyed at the fact that Scotland felt they had to rely on them so. If he were to become the loyal, faithful subject then no doubt he would rise amongst the ranks, but until that point there could be no promise of safety for the people of the borders. Unless... "At the end of the day, Miss, my lands were confered to me by my father. If I cannot have the throne through the rightful peaceful means i can accept that so long as I gain have the lands of Annandale, Dumfries and Galloway as well as Ayr and Carrick." Harsh demands, but he was going to play it further "As you have inferred, in a way, the swords of Oakenshield will be much in demand. Five thousand men, a leader with actual military talent and the name of the Bruce behind him is a fearsome opponent indeed. What if I were to side with the English, I could win the north for them and secure it. Same with Spain. Same with Scotland. I am a mercenary now, miss, your people and your idea of Scotland has forced me to be so." (d)


Queen Beathag Aberdeen

"Nay one has forced ye tae anything, my lord, tha' is a decision based upon your own actions as are any others. The North is already won, but it needs help rebuildin' itself, unless ye missed that during your what ifs. If you so seek your lands I may ask o' m'husband his opinion in the matter, If ye were to come before us I'd be quite surprised by this juncture, or would ye us rather fall at your feet because of yer name? It isn't as if ye fall at mine." She gave thought to his demands, "You sit on a wall twixt two worlds no doubt askin for portions of each, there are lordships associated with each side, then again how stands your disposistion to democracy? Side with the spanish so should it please you, but given the nature of their crimes twould make ye an outlaw of the worst sort on pain of death, and if they follow you...a man responsible for their families would nay make that choice. A mercinary is nay for the people but himself. How then can I give ye such lands if by your own admission the swords o' Oakenshield fall under such a command? E'en in such negotations it is nay my intention to send good men to die. Perhaps ye need time to draw on the idea. At any rate, I'd like to find a way tae settle our situations sae we can exist in the same world."

[Rhianna Costache]

*Bane Oakenshield*

The Queens deputation had left the fort early in the afternoon and Bane was pleased to see the back of them, annoyed at the version of history she had presented to him. He walked around the fort noticing that the travelers were still helping the soldiers to build up the fort and it's interior buildings as well as repair roofs and such like. He was also glad to see some of the supplies promised to him by the Governor of Carlisle were coming through the western gate as well as some volunteers to begin farming and take up more permanent residence in the area around Vercovicium. Perhaps the idea of a border town wasn't too out of the question? Some cavalry had been spotted in the distance, more monitoring what was happening in the fort but nothing untoward had happened yet. Bane made his way to the Officers Mess to get some lunch all of a sudden hungry remembering that he had not eaten since the night before. The aroma of food reached him, usually the smell being better than the actual taste. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

So it had been settled it seemed that Rhi would sleep in the bed while Bane slept on the couch. While that might have been the case, it was likely that neither got as good a sleep as each had hoped. Thoughts were sure to plagued Defective Beauty: one's mind at times. However, despite the lack of rest, the Gypsy was up as early as the rest and dressed in work clothes. White chemise with brown bodice and matching skirt along with more suitable footwear. Boots would be needed today as there would be lots of walking over new broken ground and unlevel surfaces. Possibly ladders should she have to go further up. While she wasn't very handy with tools like say the men folk, she was a helping hand and made sure that no one went without drink. With water pales in hands and ladles within buckets, she moved about those that worked and offered water. When she wasn't doing that, she tended to those that were in need to a gentle touch. Tending to minor wounds, cuts and the likes... Any good woman worth her weight in gold had to know basic first aide. With it now being mid day and many of the workers taking their breaks, Rhianna thought that perhaps she should take her own. The caramel haired woman was walking along with a couple others who had invited her to come and eat with them, though she wondered about Bane since she'd not seen him much during the day. Sea green eyes did casually search the many faces as she moved along. Nearly empty buckets sloshing about as she intended to return them to the water barrels to easily locate after lunch. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

Lunch was, as predicted, awful - but at least it filled him up. He walked out the mess and was immediately sought after for various pieces of paperwork and request forms for leave and such like, whereas others were for requisition orders. Oh yes, it could be exciting being a Captain of your own Regiment, however, most of the time it was sifting through paperwork which evidently led up to the hacking and slashing thing that Bane seemed to do so well. Eventually dismissing most of those looking for signatures he began touring the various sentry posts checking up on the lads and making sure they were happy with what was going, which was probably one of the more important jobs. If a sentry didn't have a clue what was going on then mistakes would happen. It was when he was making his way down from the north gate tower, and the last one he had to visit, he spotted Rhi in the crowd of milling figures. He smiled and shouted her name, waving slightly as he walked towards her. The memory of the morning meeting disapating like fog on a sea breeze. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She was nearing the barrels when she thought she heard her name. She paused, looked right then left but saw none who looked to her. Rhi then turned around slowly and through the crowd, she saw a wave of hand. Furrowed brows would relax and a smile would slowly grace her lips. She turned just long enough to set the buckets aside and excuse herself before making her way toward Bane. The little gypsy woman met the Captain about half way. "Good day Bane... how are you this day?" she smirked. "Other than busy of course..." she teased slightly. Eyes shifted momentarily to a few others nearby to indicate the work clearly in progress by many here before she looked back to him. "I was just about to go and get myself something to eat." she offered. "What about you? Have you had anything to eat yet?" she then asked. A hand came up to let long slender digits capture and tuck a few strands back behind her ear as the breeze seem to pick up for a moment before it died back down. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"I wish I didn't have anything to eat! I swear those sausages will come back and bite me in the arse before too long." It's generally an accepted theory that if you feel something that crunches when you eat in a military canteen you either swallow it or take it out your mouth while your eyes are shut. "To be honest, the cooking course in any military force is the hardest course there is. No-one has passed it yet" he said with a smile as he slipped an arm around her waist. "Tell you what, your people have repaid us with their help. Most of the barrack blocks roofs are nearly repaired now, I have half a mind to ask if they can build gates! How about yourself, what have you been up to today?" He wanted to avoid the fact that he had probably just pissed off the apparent Scottish royalty and, in effect, declared himself as the rightful heir to the throne - which was worrying given that Scotland had a habit for civil wars regarding the question of who sat on the throne. (d)



*Rhinanna Costache*

Caramel brows arched with puzzlement but she smiled, catching on to what he had said. "It was that terrible?" she asked with a slight chuckle. The next comment that followed, she gave a innocent little shrug of her shoulders as he began to slip his arm about her slender waist. "Perhaps you have the wrong person or people in the kitchen." she teased. The remark about her people working and fulfilling their end of the deal, she nodded, only for a smile and chuckle to follow. "I am sure, if you were to give them a reason to stay and do this for you, they would. As for what I have been doing, I'm only making sure that no one goes without water and that first aide is applied when needed." she answered. Her hands, usually appearing as soft and clean, were slightly dirty and may fell a little rough at the moment. Nothing a good scrubbing couldn't fix. She wasn't royalty, not nobility, she had the hands of a working woman. Something very few every really appreciated. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Fair one. The trouble with this fort is that there is no active running water, we're having to get the supplies from the loch a couple of miles to the west. I've got a couple of engineers looking into it at the moment, we reckon we're going to have to dig down and build a couple of wells" It didn't exactly help the fact that they were on top of the hill and the surrounding area was grassland. It occurred to him that beyond the vallum was a small river but it was a good mile south. He shook his head. "Ach, I'm fed up thinking about logistics. Already fed up with it. I had a visit from the Queen today, don't think she likes me." (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

"I am sure that in time, things will come together. They always do... it is the way of things." she offered to him as she lifted her gaze to meet his and the afforded him a sweet little smile. She then nodded at hearing of his plans to have it all remedied. "Sounds like you have thought this out a good deal." It was then he made the remark of growing tired of thinking. A single brow arched and she nodded with a look of understanding upon her face. Though, at hearing of his visitor.. she canted her head slightly while turning a curious eye to him. "The Queen? And... why would she not like you?" (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Because I made my claim for the throne as Bruce's son, plus the fact I challenged her very right to try and order me around. It was all interesting stuff. She said things, I said things, her bodyguard said something and I threatened to claim him. Very good time" He smiled at her as he thought over the meeting, "Of course I don't think it helped the fact that I threatened to raise the entire border region and western area of Scotland in rebellion nor the fact that I displayed a healthy hatred for King Edward III and his family. And that I and the Grey Regiment fought with Alfonso IV." He grinned at her as the wind began to pick up, a bell rang out signaling the watch change as sentries began to get relieved. He looked up at the north gate tower seeing a black cloud begin to form just over the horizon in Scotland, a metaphor perhaps? (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She listened as he began to explain in detail of his meeting with her Majesty and the more he shared... the more she became a little confused. Was he claiming to be the ruler of this land? She would have never guessed it. If he was royalty... he did not act it. At least, not what she thought Royalty would act. Perhaps she and many other had a misconception of how they acted? "Bane.. please do forgive me in asking this of you, but...how is it you are to be the ruler and not she? I do not ask to challenge your lineage... only to better understand." she said truthfully. "And if what you say is true... please be careful? Threats, given or received are never taken lightly." She paused in her walking with him, her hands came to his arms and she gently gripped him as she stared up at him with genuine concern in her eyes. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"I was born in 1290 to Robert the Bruce and his first wife, though history has forgotten that. I was with him when he raised himself to the throne in 1306 in Dumfries and fought with him in his major battles up until 1323 when I left Scotland with the one thousand volunteers that would later make up the Regiment of the Grey. So, by right, I am the rightful heir to the throne of Scotland and now I've got them worried. Before I came on the scene they were happy to rule this kingdom like the Plantagenats ruled England and the rest of the British Isles - now I'm back, and I represent the old school of Scottish thought and they see me as a threat, particularly as I've suddenly sent up house and home in what is still a disputed area and very much a hotbed for dissent and rebellion, particularly after the power vacuum that the Spanish left when they pulled out the area." He smiled at her, trying to reassure her a little. "My real name is James Bruce, I adopted the name Bane Oakenshield so that no-one would guess my roots. Coming back here though, a lot of folk recognized me so it would be better to get it out in the open rather than it coming back to bite me in the arse" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Rhianna listened as he explained things. The more she heard, the more concerned she became. Not to mention... a few thoughts had come to mind...like the fact that she was in the presence of a Prince? Recognized or not. He was his father's son... nothing could change that. Then there was that little fact that she had come to care for him in just the short time they had known each other. With learning the truth, she knew they were from two different worlds and what was expected in each. "So do I go on in calling you Bane... or should I now address you as James... or?" she asked, her words however, falling short of complete as they were nothing more than a whisper on the wind before becoming nothing more than the silence that now lingered between them. Something else surfaced within the sea of thoughts swimming about in her head... age... even if he did have mutual feelings, she was only a girl to him. A girl that would likely be thought as knowing nothing and worth nothing. So many difference were emerging now... and that coupled with her concern for his safety was sure to reflect the doubt and worry within her eyes. She lowered her gaze and continued to try and make sense of it all, wondered what she should do now. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Call me what you will, Rhi. For thirty years of my life I was known as James, for the past ten I have been known as Bane. It's up to you, I am used to both." He watched her and the growing concern on her face and shook his head, trying to judge what was wrong. "We are not so different, Rhi. The only division here is the self-imposed division that man has decided to bequeath on others. For fifteen years of my life I lived with my father, for the next fifteen after I rarely slept in anything more than a tent or by my horse and sword. It was the same when I campaigned in Europe, though that was altogether different at times. I am just a man, Rhi, nothing more and nothing less. It changes nothing for my feelings towards you. Towards us" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

The Gypsy suddenly found her toes a little more interesting as she stared down at them. She listened as he spoke again before lifting her gaze to meet his own. "What would you have me call you? And how can you say we are not different? You are of royalty and I am... of nothing. I have nothing of worth to give to you... at least not by the eye of society." She suddenly paused at hearing his last words. "You... have feelings for me?" she asked. "I mean..I understand we shared a kiss... but..." Oh how the gods loved to toy with a mortal's mind and heart. Making it difficult to see through the fog of confusion that seemed to appear from out of no where. That made her suddenly tongue tied. Did she need to admit to him now that she to had feelings for him? Or should she turn away now and save them both what she thought would surely be trouble for them with all that she had just learned. What was a woman to do?! Where was that reassurance when she needed it?! (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"If we're going to be exact, I'm probably the King beyond the gate" He liked the title having thought about it, King Beyond the Gate certainly had a ring to it. "This is a new society that we are developing here, Rhi. I have five thousand men with me who come from Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales. There wives and children will be coming with us soon enough to set up house and home here. Yes, we are what society intends us to be but I intend to create my own society here where we can create our rules and throw out the dross and crap from the old societies that we came from." They were walking up the steps to the parapet now and Bane leaned onto the battlement and looked over the plains to Scotland, he saw an Eagle circle the fort once and then fly north. "It's up to you, Rhi, you can stay or go if you like. I am not going to stop you, though I would like it if you would stay" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

King... King?! Oh Gods.. She listened to him as he began to speak again. Telling her how different things could be... no, how different things would be here. How it would be possible for her and he to be together without the harsh looks and without the forked tongues stirring them each clear of one another. Was that thunder she heard? A storm was coming...no doubt. She walked with him as he directed them up the steps to the parapet only to gaze out across the land. Her eyes followed the line of sight his own had taken to. He was allowing her to make a decision... here and now. It was when he told her he wanted her to stay that she looked to him. "You wish for me to stay?" she asked before turning to fully face him. Those mysterious sea green eyes stared up at him, full, naturally colored lips were became thin with intense anticipation, her ears picking up every little sound possible as she awaited his reply... and if none came, would it be because of a different response? (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Yes, I am asking you to stay." He said quietly looking out over the glen. He had plans, that much was evident. He would probably get visited by the English diplomats and the Spanish diplomats, his own mind aflame at the thoughts of what was going to happen in the future. He would prefer it if Rhi was there, indeed would probably love it if she stayed, but if she went he couldn't help but think it would be better for her. Pretty soon this entire area would be under intense scrutiny, and if it went wrong - as it possibly could - then this area would turn into a war zone where five thousand men would have to stand up to the might of tens of thousands. "However, it is up to you Rhi. You have to judge your own feelings." (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Rhianna captured her lower lip between pearly white teeth as her eyes wandered a moment. She told herself she shouldn't even be thinking... that there was nothing to think about here. Mind tried to rule over her heart, but the heart always seemed to become the victor in such a battle. "I have no family, I have nothing of worth, but ... if you would accept me as I am... as what I am. Then I will stay. For I would wish for nothing more than to remain here... by your side." she replied. The Gypsy knew that danger could very well await them just around the corner, but she could no more control her destiny than she could the wind. She took a step closer, closing what distance there was that had remained between them. The sound of thunder came again as those clouds he spotted seem to begin rolling in. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He didn't say anything, just stood up straight and hugged her. Holding her close as he considered the full implication of what she had said. He was reminded of his father when Elizabeth de Burgh had thrown her lot in with him as well, it had looked as grim then as it looked now. The King Beyond the Gate and the young gypsy woman. "Thank you." he said simply, not sure of what else to say - he had never really found himself in this position before, sure there had been woman before but none that had actually meant something so serious to him who were, in all honesty, willing to risk their life with him. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

His arms encircled her form and her arms would mimic his about his own form. He held her close and her cheek came to rest against his chest. Eyes would remain open as thoughts of what had occurred, what had been said, and the possibilities to come continued to swarm around her head like bees to a hive. He thanked her and she shook her head before whispering her reply. "No... thank you." Rhianna had never been really accepted by anyone else but her own kind... and here was a man, who by birth right, was a King, asking her to stay, to be his. It was odd..it was new territory, she'd never been in anything like this before. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He had never been placed in this situation either. At the head of a body of men he was immortal, totally confident in his own abilities to rally previously fleeing soldiers or to lead what others would term a suicidal charge into a packed enemy formation. But this? If one was to stretch the metaphor to the extreme, then love was a battlefield that Bane had no real intelligence on and couldn't scout it out. He didn't like the thought, but often great things came with complete leaps into the unknown. "At least the weather is
holding up though" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Rhianna continued to keep her arms about him and keep herself against him for a moment longer. She didn't know why, just felt it was needed. And even though she had no reason as to why, she knew that not everything was meant to be understood. She took in a deep breath and sighed with contentment. Finally, and reluctantly, she would loosen her hold, but kept one arm around him while her free hand came to rest against his chest as she half twisted to turn and gaze at the storm brewing. It was holding off, but she feared it wouldn't be for long. With it only being half a day, and not yet had lunch, she thought perhaps skipping it all together and maybe traveling to the nearest river or lake for a bath. The work from earlier in the day was evident within those caramel curls, and amongst her clothing as dust and dirt would occasionally appear with the small gusts of winds that came and went. "For now at least." She then had a thought... why not make use of the rain that was to come? Who said you had to surround yourself in tub or a pool of water for a bath. The idea was amusing and so she did smirk a little. "What shall we go and do now?" she asked as she looked up to him with a questionable gaze? (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"I have no idea. The construction and repair work is coming along nicely. The travelers are, for the best part, setting up home even if they judge it to be temporary and the local merchants are already taking orders to be sent back to Carlisle and Newcastle. As well as that, the local border families are getting in touch" Genuinely everything looked as if it were coming together like a giant jigsaw, what troubled him at the moment was the little reaction he had received from the more major players in the political arena. Perhaps he needed to make a bigger statement, a bigger scene to be noticed. "What do you want to do now, Rhi? I must admit, my mind is too preoccupied at the moment with ideas of tactics and strategy and....stuff" he finished lamely, looking into her eyes. He wasn't normally one to stammer into silence but she did take his breath away at times. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She listened as he spoke and shared with her all that had taken place and was taking place. So much progress for him and his men in just a short time. That to her was a good thing, but some would view it as not so good. When he then posed his question on what she wanted to do... she gave a small shrug of shoulders. The act alone would have the fabric of her chemise slipping slightly and revealing the mocha colored skin beneath. "Well... if I am not needed with the water pales... nor with the first aide, if others have
taken over, I've not yet had my mid day meal... and a bath would be nice. Though, with no running water here yet as you have said yourself... and the nearest water source is at least a mile away, I was thinking of maybe taking up a horse, maybe a few others to accompany me, and making use of that river if the rain doesn't soon come. But... if there is something else you have in mind, all that can wait." she paused a moment as she moved to come and stand before him once more. Her eyes were looking up to him, her head slightly tilted back and she steadied herself by allowing her frame to rest against his own while hands took hold at his waist. "Is there something you have in mind Bane Oakenshield?" she asked with a sweet smile. (d)


to be continued...

[Rhianna Costache]

*Bane Oakenshield*

"I must admit, I do have several ideas but I don't know how well you would respond to them" he said softly, brushing his lips against hers as his arms slipped around her waist drawing her closer to him. A small shiver went down his back feeling her so close to him, her hot breath on his neck, "Though I think if we were to go through with any of my ideas it would have to be out of the way of the watchkeepers. Perhaps that loch would be a good idea?" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Heat filled her cheeks as she wondered if her thoughts mirrored his own. His lips brushed across hers and she would lean in all the more. As his arms came about her waist, her own seem to instantly lift and anchor about his neck. When the brushing of lips faded away, he spoke of possibly going to the lake. She stared up at him and nodded. "We will be safe there? " she asked, remembering how he and his men had mentioned the possibility of danger the night before. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Aye we'll be safe. It's our main water source so we have the odd sentry dotted about this place plus a detachment of one hundred guarding it. If in doubt, there is a metal brazier that can be used for smoke signals which would have the majority of the Regiment descend upon it in minutes" He grinned at her as he walked her gently down the steps once more, his hand holding her hand as they then walked down the sloping north to south road and went to the stables. "You can choose your own horse from one of my own and we'll ride together if you want?" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She bit her lower lip in contemplation and then nodded. He'd not stirred her wrong yet and had done nothing to have her doubt him thus far. She nodded then and as he ushered her along, they walked hand in hand down those steps and to the stables as talk of horses came. "You mean, for me to ride one and you another? Or we ride one horse together?" she asked because, well she wasn't quite sure what he meant by "together". She was still a little dizzy from that small kiss. He seem to affect her like that. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Whatever you fancy, I'm happy either way. Though I suggest if we are to ride on the same horse that I go in front and you ride pillion, that way you can put your arms around my waist as we try to negotiate some of the more tricky parts." He smiled at her, knowing that she was perhaps not the most comfortable of riders but was willing to leave the end decision up to her. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She thought it over a moment and with them both knowing she wasn't the best when it came to handling horses, she came to her decision before giving it voice. "I think it best if perhaps we take the same horse. But.. I promise to become a better rider so that I may some day have my own and not crowd you in your own saddle." The idea of riding in behind him though was for her, a good excuse to keep her arms around him. That was something she would keep for herself. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"I'll teach you some day, if you'll let me. By the end of it I could have you riding like a cavalryman going Hell for leather into an enemy formation!" That was to say that she would become very confident at riding horses even though it sounded like a series of bad puns. He saddled up his own, stroking it's flanks as he worked the saddles before he finally jumped on. "Put your left leg on the stirrup and swing your right leg over the hind quarters and then we'll be off as soon as your comfortable" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

"You would teach me? I would like that very much." she replied as she looked to him as he readied the horse. It didn't matter how it had sounded to her, only that he had wished to help her become a better rider was all that mattered really. She watched as he mounted and as he gave instructions, would do as directed. She slipped a foot into the stirup and hefted herself up before bringing her other leg up and over so that she was positioned right behind him. Her arms were quick to wrap around his waist. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"There, almost like a natural" he said as he touched his ankles to the horses flanks and gently led the horse out of the stables and into the main through fare. "Are you sure you want people to come with us, Rhi? I can easily go to the south gate and get some of the travelers if you want?" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She smiled at his compliment as the horse was set into motion. Those first steps had the quick jolt and had her tightening her arms around him. She felt bad for a moment, thinking her death hold around probably made him feel like he was being squeezed to where he'd no longer be able to breathe but she didn't want to fall off! "I'm alright with us going by ourselves Bane. It is up to you if you wish to have others go with us. I had intended to get others to go for there is safety in numbers. That was my only reason." [d]



*Bane Oakenshield*

He turned his head round and grinned at her before giving the universal thumbs up sign before touching knees to his horse making her go at a canter now as they let the south gate. It was easier by this route, they would go down the road on the hill at a steady pace before coming onto the more even military road heading west. He did note, however, that traffic was increasing now that his men had taken such a dominant position. Perhaps people felt more secure now. After a while they cut north towards the loch himself completely oblivious to her apparent death hold, instead reveling in the sense of freedom he always got when he rode on his horse. He began to pick up the pace a little until she was in a nice steady gallop, the wind whistling about his ears. He gave a shout of joy, a little immaturity he found went a long way! (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

The grin was returned with a smile before the horse's pace seem to increase a little. She watched as they passed by several others on horse back, others on wagons and even a carriage it seemed. For this to be a newly established place. This was definitely a good sign. She knew this would please him so. While she was in the rear and most failed to pay attention to things when simply riding, Rhi made sure to pay attention as to know just where she was, where she was headed, and how she should get back should she decide to venture out alone one day. The nice steady gallop came and her arms tightened around him while she smiled. When he gave a shout. She laughed and did a somewhat of a Gypsy cry to join in on the fun with him. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

They reached the small loch before long, already the starting of a ditch being built around it with a loose palisade wall. It seemed that wherever the Greys went, fortifications would be built to protect their investments. Bane had a mind to try and incorporate it into the wall itself, thus having a walkway right down to the loch which no-one could get onto or threaten. It was a tempting thought. "We're here" he said directing the horse to a shaded area "Though you'll need to dismount first before I can get off" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

As they reached their destination, she took notice of the progress of what Bane's men had accomplished so far. While she wasn't entirely sure what it would end up being exactly or what it would mean, she knew it had a purpose. Bane didn't seem like the kind of man to waste man power on silly ideas. When the horse came to a stop and he verified they had arrived, and that she would have to dismount first, she wore a puzzled look to begin with. After thinking for only a moment, she thought the best way to get down was how she had come to get up there to start with, just in reverse. That was precisely what she did to and soon found herself with both feet planted firmly on the ground after a small hobble to balance herself out. She stared up at him and waited for him to join her. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He dismounted himself and took his horse to the nearest tree, tying the reins to a sturdy looking branch before he walked over to her and taking her hand. Even here the Wall could be seen, though now they were on the northern side of it having passed through an area that had completely fallen through. The views around the area were dramatic enough with high rising crags on either side of them and to their front, windswept plains. "So what do you think then?" he said leading her closer to the waters edge, reveling in how refreshing and cool it looked - though with the mid day sun it was probably of a decent temperature. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She watched with a careful eye as he dismounted and then lead his horse to tether it in place. As he turned and began to make his way toward her, her chin lowered while mysterious greens locked on his own gaze.She smiled as he took her hand and led her away, giving her the chance to appreciate the lands beauty from where they now stood, hand in hand. It was humbling... this was absolutely a lovely place. And still it could become even more so as it had so much potential. As her eyes slowly scanned the scenery around them, she nodded approvingly. "I can see why you would wish to chose this place as you have. There is much to be had here in so many ways that would benefit many." she replied before looking to him. As they neared the water's edge, with her free hand, she removed her shoes and skimmed her toes across the top. It felt wonderful. Not to hot and not to cold. She looked from her toes then to him. "Shall we?" she asked with a huge smile.(d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Well, I must admit, I didn't bring a swimming costume so if you have any ideas about modesty then I do apologize" He grinned at her as he took off the leather jerkin that he so often wore and placed it, folded up, down on the ground just away from the shore. He did the same with the sword belt before eventually taking off his shirt. He waited for her to say anything before he was going to take off his boots and eventually trousers, he wanted to see her reaction before he did any of that! (d)


*Rhianna Costache*

"Nor did I... but I'm sure we will make do with what can be had." she replied as she began to feel a rush of heat race to her cheeks, filling them with warmth and color. Modesty was something that could not be one way or the other all the time. It depend on the situation and the person. His grin seemed to have her snicker as she watched him undress, all up until it came to his trousers. It was here she'd offer to turn about. "I'll not look... and grant you some privacy if you so wish it." she said. Only after his answer would she begin to unlace the work bodice from around her torso, folding it and placing it aside before skirts followed. The chemise she wore was cuffed sleeved, and thin due to the warm weather at this time of year. It wasn't as long as most either, the hem resting at the knees rather than the ankles. Depending whether or not he was already in the water, did she turn to face him and make way to enter herself. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"I'm not shy if you're not!" he said with a smile as he sat down to pull off his boots and socks, stuffing the socks into the boots before finally pulling off his trousers. He strode into the water, gasping immediately when his body hit the cold water before walking further in, gritting his teeth when it hit altogether more sensitive and previously warmer parts. "It's very bracing!" he said calling back to her, though he continued to stride on until he was having to swim due to the water being up to his neck "Very bloody bracing!" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She laughed out loud and hands came to her face as she shook her head. Once she heard him entering the water, she had turned, and just in time to see that backside of his. She smiled to herself... it was a very nice backside if she could say so herself. Though, once he was further in, she dared to near the edge once more, stepping in one foot at a time, and eventually the water began to rise up to her knees, then mid thigh. "bracing?!" she called out. "Its much colder than I thought!" she added as she forced herself further in. Finally, she just said to hell with it and dived right in. She came up gasping for air, the shock of the chill had her gritting her teeth. "Gods Bane!" she bellowed out before moving further out still so that she could join him. Water raced down her nose, her cheeks, and her jaw before coming to drip from the end of her nose and her chin. Water clung to long lashes before she tried to blink them away while hands lifted to push back the wet mass of what was usually a caramel color now a dark rich color much like her skin. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He grinned at her, splashing water into her face as she came towards him "It's a little on the cold side isn't it?" A little was a serious understatement, at this moment in time he couldn't think of a moment in his life when he had been colder "And need I remind you that this was your suggestion? I would have quite happily had lunch with you instead!" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She lifted an arm to try and block the water he splashed her way. "Just a little." she replied before laughing again. Her body shivered as she tried to move around and create warmth. "No, no need to remind me, for I am very well aware this was my idea. But, please keep in mind, a bath was very much needed unless you would have me remain dirty!" she teased. Rhianna splashed some water back at him as she moved back a few inches should he decide to go after her. While she doubted she could get away from him in time it didn't mean she wouldn't try! (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He grinned and swam after her, swearing jovially as he did so for he didn't seem to be adjusting to the water all. In fact, if anything it seemed to be getting colder the further they got out. "I am getting this damn bath house sorted out as soon as possible. Warm water is much more civilized!" He ducked under the water and swam up from underneath her, tugging at her bare legs for a second before coming up beside her, breathing a little labored but smiling "And now I caught you, what is my prize?" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

She saw that grin of his and new she was in for it! She quickly turned and tried to swim away as fast as she could all the while laughing at the comment of the bath house. She glanced over her shoulder, only to see he had gone but where?! He was under water!!! She looked for bubbles, trying to spy him before he surfaced, but by the time she thought she could pin point him, he was grabbing at those slender legs and popping up just behind her! "BANE!" She yelled playfully as she turned to swat at him much in the same manner. "Your prize?!" she asked before laughing. Eyes would roll in thought before she looked to him and grinned. Slowly her arms wrapped around his neck and she closed the distance between them. She stared deep into his eyes and regarded him for a long moment before whispering. "What is it you would like as your prize?" she asked before closing the distance between their mouth where her lips would gingerly brush against his own. Her eyes would lower to his mouth before lifting again to meet his gaze and awaited his answer. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Somewhere warm for a start where I could claim it" he said with a cheeky grin as he returned the kiss, his tongue darting out to tease her own as his hands strode down her back. Truth be told he would be much more comfortable doing this on dry land or at the very least in shallow water but it was sheer pleasure all the same. "I think, my Lady, that my prize should be equally fitting for the chase. Do you not think so?" he said grinning at her with a wink as he said it. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

The Gypsy woman snickered as the kiss was returned. The teasing dart of his tongue had lurred her in for more which at the moment, seemed to have been refused in that all to playful fashion. She smiled as his hands worked where they may. "How does the hunted gain say so from there hunter? But yes... I think your prize should be equally fitting for such a chase." she grinned back, and just like that, she slipped free from his grasp, disappeared under water and swam away from him as quickly as possible. Where was she going? Why... to the shore! Would he catch her or simply have to catch up? If he wanted a worthy prize, he was going to have to work for it! (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He grinned after her, what a prize it would be! He dived once more into the water, getting accustomed to it's temperature but still preferring to be ashore. He swam after her, easily maintaining a short distance from her and reaching out, occasionally stroking her leg at times. He swam up for fresh air before eventually swimming alongside her "Oh believe me, I would hope the prize would get as much pleasure from the catch as the hunter will" he grinned as he then cast off, taking more powerful strides before he found he could wade to the shoreline. "And now your avenue of retreat is cut off, I have your clothes!" he said, unabashedly naked in front of her. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

If only she could have seen such a grin! Rhianna continued to make her way to the shore, but soon she was met by and teased by her hunter. The nerve of that man! she thought as she laughed while wading to in the shallow heading to the shore. Soon, both were on the sand and he had managed to get to her clothing. Oh... so that's how it was to be eh? She glanced about and smirked before going after his own clothes! "While I might look a bit silly in your clothes... I would think you would look much more so in mine!" she teased as she held up each article of clothing within her hands and taunted him playfully with them. "What will it be Captain?" she asked with a smirk. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Do the colours not suit me, Miss Rhi? I'd say it would look rather flattering on me" He grinned at her "Though I would give you back the bells, I don't think I would suit them at all. As for my clothes, rather strangely I think you could wear a brown sack and still look divine my dear" Though at this point in time he couldn't help but stare at her body, the sudden coldness from the loch quickly disappearing as he felt blood rush to every extremity possible. "Though I daresay if we aren't to cause a scene here, we would be best retiring to the fort with all possible haste, don't you think?" (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Rhianna laughed and gave a shake of her head. "It's not the colors I worry about my dear Captain... but the fact that you would not make a pretty woman as I..." she replied.The comment he made about her looking divine even in a brown sack ahd her grinning. "Perhaps we can test that theory when we return to the fort?" she teased with a wiggle of her brows. After a moment though, she teased him in a entirely different manner. "Is the Captain scared to cause a little scene? I'd have never thought such!" she said before laughing. The outline of her slender figure could easily be made due to the fact the fabric that covered her while wet, showed the darker coloring of her skin without any trouble due to the color of the chemise itself. In all honestly, there was little left to the imagination. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"Am I hell scared to cause a little scene, I just think it would be a tad better in front of a fire in my own quarters than out here in a forest where I have scouts and lookouts posted" He said it with a grin as he walked up to her, his hands running up and down her waist before he kissed her on the lips once more, longer this time as his tongue tried to play with hers as he brought her closer to him. Oh yes, the fire was a tempting idea but he wasn't bothered, just so long as she was there with him. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Rhianna looked to Bane with a mischievous little glint in her eyes. Each step he took toward her, she took one back before stopping and allowing him to close that distance between them. "Does it matter where the fire is? Be it within your quarters or out here... you will feel the licking heat of flames regardless." she said teasingly. His hands came to her waist after a run up and then down over decadent curves. The kiss he offered was welcomed and given in return as well. The playful tongue of the Captain was well met by that of the Gypsy. Allowing her own to slid over and swirl around his as she was drawn closer. The clothes within her hands were lost and fell to the ground before her arms came about his neck. One hand would slip up the nape of his neck so that long slender fingers could toy with the strands of wet hair there. She broke the kiss, but lips remained pressed to one another. "Would you claim your prize now or do you wish to claim it back at the fort and within your quarters... Captain?" (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

"My quarters, much comfier." He said leaning back from her a little bit, but not too far. He almost shivered with delight at the thought of the blankets by the wide open fire. He hadn't even noticed the sun slowly descending from the sky as night began to fall, and at this time of year and in these parts it came rapidly. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

"Then within your quarters it will be." she replied as he leaned back a little. She was tempted to close that space again, but thought better of it and she was soon withdrawing from him after placing a kiss to the corner of his mouth. She would take from him her clothes after squeezing out any excess water from what she now wore and re dressing. The good thing about her bodice? It laced up and down within the front so she didn't need any help there. Once she was fairly dressed, leaving off the socks and shoes, she would offer Bane his own clothing, but not before a little teasing. Each time he reached for an item, she withdrew it so he just did miss it before she would finally give in and allow him to have it. (d)



*Bane Oakenshield*

He grinned at her before finally being able to appear before her fully dressed. "Perhaps this time you would like to ride while I sat at the back or would you like me to?" He strapped on his sword belt, going through the ritual of lifting the rapier slightly out of the scabbard and then taking out the dagger slightly before slotting them back in. Truth be told, with the night closing in this fast he would prefer it if he were in the front of the saddle so, if something did happen, they'd be able to make a quick escape if they were seriously outnumbered. (d)



*Rhianna Costache*

Fully dressed or not, she was alright with watching him unless it made him uncomfortable. Yet, part of her felt like she shouldn't be doing such! "I think it best I be in the back as it is growing dark quickly and while I am good with directions at times, the lack of light can change that very easily with having been this way only once. Not to mention, I'm sure we will get back to the fort much more quickly with you at the reigns." she said with a grin. Bells were being replaced about slender ankles now, to which afterward, she righted herself and awaited him to mount so she could do the same and assume her previous position with arms around him. (d)


to be continued...

[Bane Oakenshield]

The clouds, in a rather poetic fashion, had gathered but for the moment there was no sign of the rain that had been predicted to come, and for Bane and the complement of four thousand men this was a Godsend. One thousand men were manning the walls of Vercovicium, almost crammed to the man as they looked down on the plain below. Bane Oakenshield sat on his horse on the right flank watching the scene, going over in his mind what had transpired to bring about such events.

For the best part of a month now families had been coming to Vercovicium and setting up home outside and around the walls of the fort, primarily in the south east corner where a previous settlement had once been built up. Furthermore, families had begun setting up home in the surrounding farmsteads – which had been good for the fort because it meant a steady supply of food and other goods like wool to the fort. This had attracted attention, particularly from the brigands who now lived in the region thanks to the general destruction of Spanish and their allies in northern England. Now, nothing more than common bandits than an armed and disciplined body of men, some of the larger groups had begun to raid the area and because of the increasing richness of the area, had merged into even bigger bands until Bane had finally made a move.

Believing in the age old principle of chivalry he had written a letter and posted it in every settlement in the area as well as in several tactically located trees. He even managed to persuade the governor of Carlisle to have it posted on the door of the main council buildings, Carlisle often being associated with the gathering of the border families and was therefore a hub of rumour and gossip.

The challenge had been met, credit to them – though their numbers were slightly more than he had expected. He looked over them, ten thousand men. He couldn’t make out distinct factions but he found it safe to assume that mixed amongst the Spanish ranks would be Scots, English, Welsh, Irish and French mercenaries – those that had lost out in the recent war and those who had lost out in the beginning of the taming of the wild border region. Bane had arranged his men in a typical formation. His two thousand pikemen he had split into four large groups of five hundred. In the spacing between them he had placed two hundred and fifty musketeers to the left and right of the two centre pikemen formations, and inbetween the centre were the five hundred longbowmen. On the extreme flanks were the cavalry, seven hundred men on the left and three hundred men on the right. The tactics would be fairly simple, though they had to be given that he faced odds of two to one.

The sun seemed to break out from the cloud and bathed the land in an almost golden light, Bane grinned feeling the sun warm his back. He looked to his left, watching a breeze as it caught the regimental colours of the Greys. He put his knees to his horse and pushed it forward at a canter before turning to his left and galloping down to the main body of infantry. He sat on the horse, slightly more elevated in his seat as he looked at them before clearing his throat.

“Gentlemen!” He roared out. His accent was thick, like the forests and hills of the Dumfries and Galloway region where he had been raised as a youngster. He knew these parts, had fought in these parts for years. “You know me! I am Bane Oakenshield, Captain of the Grey. I have lived with you, I have laughed with you, I have fought with you and I have bled with you! I am also known around these parts as James the Bruce, son of our former King Robert the Bruce the First. These men gathered before you fear us, they fear the change that we seek to bring to these lands. They fear the fact that we are making a difference and giving hope to the people in these lands! And what is before us? Defeated men, broken men! Men who would sooner make a living out of destroying the dreams of good and innocent folk rather than try their hand at a hard days labour. Well enough is enough!” He paused, letting his words sink in before a couple of quotes struck him.

In 1297, an outnumbered band of men faced a similar position, a first strike to symbolise that their country was on the mend. “We came here with no peaceful intent, but ready for battle, determined to avenge our wrongs and set our country free! Lads! I have brought you to the ring, now dance if you can!” A savage cheer rose up from the men, pikes hammering on the ground and the shout getting louder as the men at the rear heard the bold words. Seeing the morale being so high the remaining cavalrymen who had become infantrymen for the day manning the walls of the fort rose a great shout in response until the entire valley was awash with shouts in many a tongue, a true sign of the Union if ever there was one.

Bane turned his horse around and galloped back to the right wing where his three hundred men waited. The enemy were advancing now at a steady pace, their cavalry keeping pace with their infantry though there seemed to be a lot less cavalry than Bane had deployed on the field. He thought for a moment of calling on the remaining cavalry housed in Vercovicium but thought better of it, just in case. He turned round to the bugler, an intrinsic part of the Greys. Every company commander was trained to respond to the blast of the bugle. “Signal the cavalry to advance, at the double.”

A short series of blasts followed and Bane turned round to face his left and saw the six hundred men already beginning to speed down towards the closing enemy, their own cavalry responding foolishly in turn. Bane turned to his own men, grinning widely as he kicked his own horse into a gallop. The three hundred men were going to have to face locally numerically superior forces for the meantime, it would be a holding action of sorts. Hammer and anvil.

Within fifty paces the flintlocks were already getting drawn, pistols shots being fired on either side of Bane as he drew his own. He brought them out and sighted on the ugly bastard at the front, the one grinning and fired both of, quickly tucking them into his belt as he drew the small hand axe. He saw the man go down and grinned, bellowing his family war cry “A BRUCE! A BRUCE!” The axe fell left and right taking men down along with horses. Hooves were flailing, all was chaos as the entire Grey line swept into the massed ranks of the enemy and then quick as a flash they were pulling back again. They charged in once more, hitting and running and then hitting once more and each time there were less to fight them and yet, they needed to hold. He turned round in the saddle having dispatched another enemy with a wide sweeping cut to the neck and looked towards the enemy infantry who had, much to his delight, abandoned the cavalry as they continued their steady march on towards the Grey Regiments main line of infantry.

Arrows whistled forward from the centre of the line, another volley was to follow it quickly followed by another. The enemy pace failed to slow down and then, like a distant rumble of thunder, the musketeers opened up. Three rounds in a minute, that is what Bane had demanded and that is what they duly delivered. He dispatched another man and brought back the haft of his axe to strike at one coming to his left to find his horse taken from under him. He landed heavily on the ground and rolled to the right just in time as a hoof descended to where his face had been. He stood up quickly, drawing a dirk from his left boot as he ran under the horse itself – knife pointing upwards as he spilled its guts to the ground. Horse and rider callopsed and Bane quickly dispatched the man, ramming the knife into the mans neck and drawing it sideways. He quickly found his next target, and obviously novice cavalryman who was having trouble controlling an otherwise beautiful black mount.

He ran forward, dragging a discarded longsword from the corpse of a Spanish looking man and leaped into the mans saddle. Pushing him off while dispatching him, he quickly took account of what was happening around him – trying to get his breath back as he did so. Though physically fit, at times he felt the forty years of his life weighing on him. The archers had fallen back expertly and now took up position some way to the rear of the main infantry line which had, as planned, began to fall back in the centre at a steady pace. The enemy, oblivious to any possible threat marched onwards at a relentless pace. Musketeers continued to fire ragged volley after ragged volley into the enemy formation as the two pikemen units on the end of either flank slowly began to advance eventually forcing the enemy into a crescent moon like shape – enclosed now on three sides.

Bane looked around, all depended on timing now.
“A BRUCE! A BRUCE!” The cry was taken up all amongst him now and he looked for the sign of men celebrating and he was quick to see the cavalry from the right flank smash into the rear of the enemy cavalry formation causing men to quickly give up the fight and begin seeking their lives elsewhere. Bane nudged his horse forward.

“Bugler on me! On bloody me!” He roared loudly, almost just above the general din of the battle. The man was quick to close up. “Sound the recall.” The bugle blasted out, proud and resonant as men slowly pulled themselves away from the joy of the pursuit. “Right, now sound the wedge formation.” Bane took stood at the front of the wedge, a well known cavalry formation that was used famously by his father in several of his earlier battles and had indeed been employed by the Grey Captain in his continental battles. Bane looked around him, the bugler and his standard bearer on both sides and the rest of the men formed up behind them. He grinned, and with a simple gesture of his sword he signalled for everyone to move forward.

Initially moving at a gentle canter, the formation gradually gathered pace. Bane could feel it, his heart keeping time with the thud of the hooves of his horse. The sounds of battle coming from the infantry was reaching him now, louder than it originally was some time back as the survivors of the cavalry battle had formed up – and to Bane it looked to some six hundred men. Musket balls began to whistle past them, whether it was from his own men or the hastily formed rearguard of the enemy it was hard to tell, but Bane ducked his head down a little further. Arrows now slashed past them, horses began screaming as men were thrown from their saddles to be unfortunately crushed or left behind in the continuing charge. It shouldn’t fail, it couldn’t fail!

And then it happened, that body of six hundred cavalry smashing into the remainder of the enemy infantry. The encirclement was complete, all was chaos as the enemy lost the majority of their cohesion – unable to tell which distance to face as they were beset on all sides by the Regiment of the Grey. Some began looking over their shoulder, trying to push their way through the bodies of horses only to find cold steel death. Bane turned around to the bugle bearer and gave him the nod.

Three sharp notes rang out, and suddenly the majority of fighting stopped as the Greys pulled back and looked at the much depleted enemy brigand force. Of the ten thousand men that had taken the field on the part of the Spanish, the mercenaries and the outlaws only a thousand at most still stood – the majority of those bearing shallow wounds. Groans and moans reached Bane now as he reflected on the words he was going to say.

“Dico Tibi Verum, Libertas Optima Rerum: Nunquam Servili Sub Nexu Vivito, Fili” He grinned at the men, not many leaders of men were meant to speak fluent Latin. “My Son, Freedom is best, I tell thee true, of all things to be won. Then never live within the Bond of Slavery.

“I offer you a choice, gentlemen. I offer you the opportunity to either join me, or die where you stand. If you join me, and there is no-one amongst us or in Vercovicium who recognizes you for some misdeed in the past, then you will live amongst us in freedom and security – amongst new friends. Hells, you may even raise a family. Choose the other” He held out his hands, the gesture simple enough. “Choose the other and you will die here in a small border battle that no-one, but those who stand here today, will remember. Make your choice gentleman, you have one minute!”

Bane looked at them all and then heard a chink as a sword was dropped, followed by a couple more and then a dozen until suddenly every man in that tight circle of men stood defenceless. Bane smiled at them all.

“Then you have chosen gentlemen. You will be marched to Vercovicium where you will be examined and cross examined by the people who live there, should you pass muster you will then come down and help with the dead and the wounded.” Already doctors and medics had taken to the field, primarily dealing with the wounded from the Regiment of the Grey. As was expected, those in the centre of the infantry line had suffered most having been at the focus of the battle for so long.

“Good luck” said Bane, leading his cavalry to pursue the enemy who had fled the field. Dunwal stood with the infantry in the centre, unable to quite believe it but knew it was the sort of thing Bane would do. He smiled slightly, almost to himself, and then began jobbing men off.

[Rhianna Costache]

Inside and behind the protection of the Fort's walls, Rhianna and many others had been moved within. Very few had offered their services or their skill for the battle itself. Many feared there would be a great deal of loss, and then there were those that were more optimistic. It was hard to say which side of the fence Rhianna was on. While she was sure Bane was a great leader and his men were very good at what they do, the odds looked against them as she managed to find a way to get to higher ground and see what was happening.

She remained hidden, knowing that at any moment, something could come over that wall. For instance an arrow. The lil caramel haired Gypsy was crouched down as best as she could as her sea green eyes took in the scene that unfolded before her. When she saw the many numbers of men from her angle, she gasped. Fear for her people and for Bane and his men was almost over bearing. The dark skinned woman prayed to whatever gods, goddess, or other higher powers that would hear her plea, would see Bane, his men, and her people through all of this.

When the battle began, she couldn't watch, and yet, she couldn't seem to tear her eyes away from the chaos that spilled out across the land below. It was a horrible sight, and the feeling that gripped her chest was even worse. To think that this was part of life... that men had and always would have to fight like this for reasons that some might think foolish while others found those reasons to be just cause. It was saddening really, to know their would never be an end to such violence. That somewhere, some how, this vicious cycle would be ever present. Rhianna however, was grateful their were men like Bane and his warriors that did fight for good and for good reasons.

The elder of the Caravan had searched for Rhianna prior to the battle, and when he wasn't able to locate her in time, he worried. However, he would learn by one of the others in the group where she had gone and what she was doing and so he would go and join her. Upon reaching her, his hand would gently curl about her slender shoulder. "You shouldn't be up here Rhianna, for it is not safe." he said as he moved to lower himself to her level. "Let us go and join the others, you are much to young to sit and watch men die."

Rhianna felt his presence even before his hand reached for her and did not turn to look to him right away. "I know... but I worry. I worry for us, for those men out there, and for him." she replied. "My mind reasons with me and tells me why I should not be here, why I should not watch, but it is my heart that keeps me still in place." She looked then to the white haired elder. Her eyes seem to plead with him not to make her leave this spot.

He would nod, seeing in her eyes what her voice was not able to ask. "Then I will stay with you." he replied in that fatherly or grandfatherly tone. Both his wise old eyes and those of Rhianna's mysterious ones would turn back to the men in the battle. Occasionally she would turn away from a gruesome scene or cover her ears from the horrible sounds. He on the other hand was there for her and while he did not like to watch what was happening, continued to let her eyes take in what they would as it all happened.

At one point, they would both see the turn of events favor Bane and his men. As the battle progressed, things looked more and more to work in their favor eventually until the Captain was showing mercy for his enemy, giving them a chance to live in peace or die in battle. The announcement of judgment came, and it would be by those within that would have such a say. This worried the little Gypsy woman. How could she cast judgment on a man? Who was she to decide a fate? She looked then to the elder at her side with a questionable and concerned gaze. He nodded, understanding her concern and patted her back for reassurance.

They both would then turn their attention back to Bane and those below only to see this was not yet finished. Bane and others were on the move again and she almost stood to shout for him to not go. However, she did not and instead, only stood to her feet as the elder rose with her to watch him and the others go after those that had fled. The wind blew, catching both caramel locks and fabric of clothing, whipping it back and forth wildly at first before it was more gentle and finally no more. Those green eyes of hers focusing solely on the Captain, while in her mind, she was wishing him to be careful and to return soon.

[Rhianna Costache]

So it would seem that while the Captain was off to see to those that ran for cover, his men would bring in those of the enemy that were both wounded and had agreed to live amongst them. Rhianna along with several other women of the caravan became responsible for tending to the wounded and the injured. The elder of the caravan was informed he was to pass judgment on these men and while he was a wise man, wasn't entirely comfortable with the decision all by himself. He informed Bane's second in command that he would do a preliminary sort of.. assessment, but the final agreement would ultimately be left up to that of the Captain.



While he moved out through the fort, not only did he aide his people in to seeing to the injured and the wounded, but would of course decide whether that man was worthy of standing before Bane and receiving a second chance. Food, water, physical aide and assessment all came to pass for many men. By the time the elder and those that followed to report to Bane upon his return had finished, the number came to be about around 1000 men. That number consisted on both the injured as well as that of the enemy.



The hour was now late and while most of what was needed to be done was sought to, there had yet to be any sign of the Captain. Many worried and feared for the worst. Hopefully Bane would return and things could continue to go underway.

[Queen Beathag Aberdeen]

"Your Majesty?"
"Aye?"
"What are your thoughts?"
"M'thoughts be many n' long, lass, vera long."
"What is it you think on now, though?"
"England, child. England."
"The wall? I overheard some discussing it in your audience chamber when you let me remain to attend you. Do you think it'll bring harsh things, madame, or will that man there help us whenever he is called?"

The world needed no more harsh things. Summer was giving way to fall as one died so the other could live. Gently she dismissed the girl, taking up the brush in hand to tend her own hair. It was the color of wheat, she heard. Some, the color of pure gold. Others, sun. So many ways to describe one thing. Vercovicium to some was Roman work during a time when the Picts stood by, for others it was now the physical border between two countries. Now? Now it was an antiquarian element that she could see from across the window as she looked at the sea. At least, in her eyes. As she twined up her hair she wondered of the men on the wall. Were they well treated, loyal to their master? Had they everything needed to survive? Did they stop things or cause them. One could almost say his ability to be there was in some ways permitted. It wasn't as if he was ordered to leave with a bloody skirmish that followed. No, both the wall keeper and the monarchy regarded one another with equal suspicion, permitted suspicion.

For all that had happened in so short a time, as she wound the last pin through the tight mass she wondered how much had been healed. "Sae such be the days o' the House o' Aberdeen and the House o' the Bruce." It lived, going on not only in the Bruce's son James, but in the soul of David. He was near the same age as the woman he would have married, Joan of the Tower. She would have sat in Beathag's place had history never told a different tale. Despite his youth, a King's son is one of maturity at astonishingly early ages. Extremists argued that it was the way of prior rulers in many lands, if not all rulers, to crush any further competition. To her it had never been a competition. It was the act of saving what was loved that carried them here. All the actions, good or bad, were born from that. No, she had no dislike for the young man and felt saddened he had lost his mother so early on. She felt saddened that he had not been visible save for but a shadow in the years she'd met him. No doubt to him, she thought, she was painted as the devil. Time changed views for each.

What many did not know was that while the heirs of England became as siblings to his majesty, David was something of a son to Her Majetsty. He sometimes resided in the quiet places of court or he would take to places of study. He was a learned man. The more she thought of David the more she wondered at his half brother. What was he like beyond the swagger of man? Beyond sword, beyond battle? Did he read, what did he favor to read? Had he ever danced or favored a sunrise in a particular place? Of what did he dream?


None of it made sense to live it. She shook her head. The Griffin - King of Scotland and England, Lord Proctector of Ireland and Wales. All by the Grace of God. Who's God? Who's Grace? There were times she could hardly believe the history in which she lived. Yet she would live it.

She was sure Bane would do the same.


Beathag called for pen and ink, so that she could fashion a letter for the Bruce's eldest son in her own hand:


To the Captain of the Gray Company:

Master Oakenshield, I pray this letter finds ye in good health and spirits. May the same be said of your men and the provinces nearby. It is now the harvest time for all. I in ardent belief hope that you will have enough to sustain your men and their families. If you do not, hesitate not to write such in reply. It will given to you.

Our first meeting and each there after have been different than meetings we would have with others. Each of us representing something to someone. One day I hope you might sit with me where we, without animosity, may discuss history. It changes. We will never be stagnant as it does. I wish to learn of you better, wherein the writing of letters might serve well.

You are given leave to settle at the wall, to conduct your affairs without duress. I believe, sir, that what is reflected is often the product of what is offered. I have as I said when we met, no desire to spill the blood of any of the men in these countries in the sea. Too much of it has been lost already. Too much pain and suffering. Too much heartache. I wish that when you accompany a man of the Griffin to be cordial, for he shall have recieved the same instruction. No doubt already people pass beyond and about all sides of the Wall. My appreciation to you, for being fluid and not an impass. You wish peace. I believe you.

I should much like it if you will be the eyes of such a place. Where you sit, there could be things of benefit or danger to us both. England and Scotland each shall be mindful of your words, grateful of what you will impart. I realize it is easier for you to be in one and not the other. This is not without understanding as to why.

May Heaven Keep You,
Beathag Aberdeen


She didn't write out the long amounts of bombast in the customs of Europe, only that which she was, what she had always been. How the world was strange. The heirs of a welsh kingdom were among the bishops and artists of the lands. Irish folk blended the new with the old. England was a world they all strove to now understand and in Scotland, a great many things changed as other stayed the same.


"Take this at once tae Vercovicium."