The Schleitz Farm (Autumn, 1333)

[brotherdiarmuid]

Wilhemia/Edward

The following morning had both Mena and Edward out near the barn as she looked at it and began to rummage around for her father's old tools. The lad was lingering a bit closer since last night. However Mena decided not to point it out. There were simply going to be moments like that, she understood...a child of eight that had seen too much? He was stillattempting to deal with it. " Edward, take the bucket around to the well.."She spoke as she carried a pail of nails to repair the few fallen boards.

Brother Diarmuid

Which of them would first see the good friar as he came up
the road? Although he was still some distance away, it as clear that he came on foot and with a stave in his hand. There was little doubting that blood had been spilled upon the road the previous day, it weight heavy on his heart. It was not because he was innocent to the sight - for he served
Knights Hospitaller - but because it had been his action that had caused it to be spilled. Another weight upon his soul. Mea culpa....mea culpa... mea maxima culpa... While Brother Diarmuid had first taken martial vows in the
name of God, he found himself turned to merciful task. And so it was, that he had journey forth. To see to Edward and Mena.

Wilhemia /Edward

Edward looked at the bucket then across the yard where the
well was. " but..its over there.. "he stated. She lifted a brow and chuckled. "Well if it was right here.. I'd fetch it myself.. scoot. "She stated waving at him with the hammer. The attention shifted away from Edward to the man on the road. She kept the hammer in hand for a moment as she walked toward the road herself. The boy was still complaining a bit as he marched off to get the bucket of water. The light smile touched her face as she waited for
the priest to get close enough to bid him welcome. Once he had she lifted her free hand. Dressed simply in the brown skirt and unbleached blouse, the shawl and such was left behind somewhere..after all can't work with that hanging on her..she'd get all tangled up.

Brother Diarmuid

There was a smile as he saw Mena draw near the fence,
raising his hand in greeting as well. "Blessed day to you!" There was a smile as he drew closer, "Does it find you well?" He would pause, leaning on his stave and stopped at the gate, to watch Edward. When he spoke again, his voice
held his concern, "And does it find Edward well?"

Wilhemia

"It finds me with far more work then I remember possible.
"She chuckled and glanced over with a small nod. " We had a few nightmares last night..but he will be alright. "She spoke softly and looked back to the priest. " Do you wish to speak with him? "She asked quietly.

Brother Diarmuid

There was an incline of his head, "If I may....." There
was a sigh, "I am sorry that he had to see such violence....." At Edward's age, Brother Diarmuid had already begun training in the martial arts by the sergeants of the Order of Saint John. Along side his normal duties as both page
and novice. "I am sorry that you had cause to see it as well."

Wilhemia/Edward

" I have seen far worse then a wagon of loud mouthed men be put in their place, M'lord. "She stated softly. The turn of her head was given as she called to the boy. " Edward.. set the bucket down and come here please. " She called to him. The boy finally managed to dump.. most of the water into the bucket. The rest? yes well his shoes were wet..again. He looked up and smiled..but it seemed a touch worried. He made his way over and ducked his head. " Ello. M'lord. "He offered quietly. Mena smiled at them both and leaned down to give Edward a light kiss. "You're fine.. hm? " She looked at the lad. He gave a small nod " Good enough.. I will leave you gentlemen to speak. "She offered. before slipping off to leave the boy and priest to speak in private.

Brother Diarmuid

There was a smile, "Blessed day, Edward." There was a
moments hesitation, before he gestured with one arm toward the boundary fence. "Do you mind if we walk a bit? We might find some shade, if please you." As they began walking, Brother Diarmuid was content to hold his peace. After a time, he smiled and said, "You aren't in trouble, Edward. Of that, I give you my word." There was a look down to the boy, before he continued. "I wanted to make sure that you were alright and had not been hurt...."

Edward

The little boy looked back , but Mena had gone back to work , repairing the barn. He sighed softly and gave a nod, following as the priest lead him. He had wondered of course if he had been in trouble but that was soon put to rest. He looked forward with a solemn look on his face. "I'm alright.. I .. I got a little scared.. "he admitted quietly. " I saw lots o' stuff like that.. you know....there. "He didn't want to think about the tunnels anymore.. not when there was sunshine and fresh air.. and stars.. he had been amazed by the stars. "Mena let me sleep with her las' night.. "He seemed a bit ashamed by that, but well.. she kept the nightmares away.

Brother Diarmuid

Brother Diarmuid nodded quietly, "I know." While the
Underdark may not function as a portal to Hell, the good friar knew that it was still a place of desperation, violence, and human suffering. That was why he made frequent forays in to the Underdark, being both charity and the word of God to those who dealt there. If he could ease the suffering of only a handful, then he would count it time well spent. Once they had reached a shade tree, Brother Diarmuid motioned for him to sit. The friar, himself, would take advantage of a suitable rock. There was a smile, "That was very kind of her...." After a breath, he reached out and put his hand on Edward's shoulder, "There is nothing wrong with being scared.... for *all* of us feel it from time to time." There was a smile, "When some is said to be brave, it is because - for a good cause - they were able to overcome their fear and went to the aide of their fellows."


Edward

The boy seated himself with that easy boneless grace onto
his rump in the dirt as he looked up at the Priest. The eyes watched him almost eagerly drinking his words that it was alright to be afraid. While Mena had said the same. it was different coming from a man. and well Mena was a
girl... so wasn't the same thing at all. " Have you ever been afraid? "

Brother Diarmuid

The priest would smile, inclined his head. "Yes, there
are times I have been afraid." There was a thoughtful look, then he smiled, "Shall I tell you of a time when I was scared?" If the boy nodded, Brother Diarmuid would relate his story. "While I serve God above all others, I do so
in the service of the Order of Saint John -- known to many as the Knights Hospitaller or the Knights of Rhodes. Many of us have taken up the sword in the name of God...and in my years I have taken apart in many a battle. And yet,
never was I so afraid -- as the time I was lost unto the sea. I was very afraid. For, like all men, I do not wish before my time. And I prayed to God that my life might be spared so that I could continue to work in His name." There was a dramatic pause, "And God heard my prayers, knew my fears, and made me calm. And sent me salvation." There was a pause, a bit of laughter, "Not by Jonah's whale, but by the crew of a Moorish merchant ship. They saved
me...and since then, I have lived my life in away that is more suited to God's merciful nature." There was a smile, "But that is only one time that I have been afraid.... there have been other times as well."

Edward

The boy nodded and drew his knees up and wrapped his arms around. The attention was locked onto the priest as he began his story. The blinking was slowed in timing as he seemed to concentrate on the tale. "Wow.. worst I e'er seen was Mena an Lars get into a roe. "he stated quietly. " wasn't like whut I saw yesterday.. I mean most times Mena kept me out of the streets.. cept that time I tried ta help.. I stole ..something. "he admitted as the shame caused his cheeks to flush. " Mena gave me a good whallopin..then made me give it back. " There were always fights.. thieves
looking for prey.. things of that nature, which Mena had done her best to keep Edward from seeing.

Brother Diarmuid

There was a smile, as Edward admitted to having stolen
something ... being caught...and made to give it back. "If it was only that one time, the worry not over it. God forgives both our trespasses.... and those who trespass against us." Then he sighed, "I pray that you'll not witness violence again....."

Edward

He shrugged and shifted a bit. "Mena said it was the nature
of people.. those that are small in the minds take from those too weak to stand up. Thats why they have them knights and stuff. "he answered back. While it sounded really great, in a story, after witnessing that sort of thing
first hand? The lad wasn't too sure what to think of doing such a thing himself.

Brother Diarmuid

Oh dear. After a moments thought, he said, "There is some
truth to what Mena said.... but consider this also. You, Mena, and I are but the creation of the almighty God. We are fallible and even the greatest of us can have moments of weakness and temptation. And yet, so long as we admit
that we have done is wrong and truly repent for what we did, God will forgive us. And He will love us the same as we always have."

Edward

He seemed a little confused. " I thought people came from
babies.. an they came from.. well.. you know.. girls. "he made a face. He didn't even want to think how.. he had made the mistake of asking once.. it was GROSS. " Mena says God loves e'eryone.. but.. what about those men that hurt people..does God love them too? " he asked with a small cant of his head. " Cause ya know if I was God.. I wouldn't be real happy with them roman men that stuck his boy up on that cross..I'd be sure fire mad. "He stated with a nod.
Obviously Mena had read him some of the bible.. her jaded opinion of the church kept them away on Sundays.. but she did at least read it to him.

Brother Diarmuid

Brother Diarmuid canted his head, no doubt wondering how a young boy had already stumbled upon *that* particular discussion. For now, he chose to ignore it. Sounded more a task for Mena anyhow. There was a
moment's thought, before he said, "God only forgives us if we are *truly* repentant...." There was a smile, as he looked down at Edward. "Let us say...a man steals but a small bauble from another. If that man gives it back, apologizes for the theft, and ask forgiveness from God -- he shall receive it. However,if the man commits another theft and another -- he proves his repentance false. And receives not God's forgiveness, but God's judgement." There was another pause, "And even then, He loves those He punishes -- as a father loves a wayward son."

Edward

He seemed confused as he looked at him. " That don't make
no sense.. how can you love someone.. an not forgive em? " The lad shifted a bit and absently toyed with a bit of grass. The whole conversation started.. well nevermind. How it started..or why Mena had actually told the lad. but well, he stopped asking that was for sure!

Brother Diarmuid

Brother Dairmuid smiled, "Think back to when stole from
another.... Did Mena forgive you for taking it? Did she punish you?" He watched the boy, "Even if she punished you, you know that she still loved you."

Edward

" Well she tanned my hide right good. "He stated with a
firm nod. " couldn't sit down for a day.. though.. its Mena..she loves me always..tells me so. "He explained. That was simple.. Mena was well.. Momma.


Brother Diarmuid

There was a smile, "That is how God may love us all -- and
still punish us when we go against His law or raise a hand against our fellow man." There was a nod, "God loves us. And always. He sent His son down to us, so that Christ could teach us of God's love and we might know it." Brother Diarmuid hesitated, then said, "It is the duty of the clergy, to bear God's love to everyone." Which is why Brother Diarmuid was so often engaged in charitable works.

Edward

" So. Mena was right.. you are one of God's Men. "He looked
up at the priest a bit differently. Not like the clergy they had seen pass through before. Asking for alms.. talking to the poor like they were little more then scum to be scraped from a boot. He was young, but he was not stupid
not to see it.

Brother Diarmuid:
There was a soft smile, an incline of his head. And yet,
it was clear that the young boy's words did a great deal to relieve Brother Diarmuid of his own worries. Softly, he said, "Yes, I am one of God's Men." After a pause, he would rise and smile, "Unfortunately, I must return to my
duties -- and, I believe, still have chores to do." Brother Diarmuid would rise, only when Edward had risen before him. "If you feel the desire to speak to me more, you may seek me out."

Edward

The boy looked at him for a moment, probably around women far too long as the little boy simply stood before him a moment and stared at his face.. then impulsive as children are.. simply gave him a hug. Why? Perhaps to make them both feel better. " Thank you sir. "he spoke quietly before removing himself. " Do you have to help with the washing too? "He looked at him a bit surprised. Well Mena made him help.

Brother Diarmuid:

There was a small bit of laughter, "Young man, for me,
there is no 'help'. For I must wash my own clothing...." It was part of the Rule of St. Augustine. There was a smile, as the boy hugged him. He patted the boy's shoulder, before saying, "I will speak to Mena before I go. Be certain to help with the wash -- and keep your shoes from being soaked."

Wilhemia/Edward

"Awww.. she won't let me run through the creek
barefoot.."He grumbled and gave a nod as they pair walked back to the cottage and barn. Mena was still there, beating the wood planks back into some semblance of order. She absently hummed to herself while doing so.. as Edward moved off to his own chores. Again..not straying too far.

Brother Diarmuid:

There was a smile, as he gently tapped on the frame of the
door. A humble way to get Mena's notice. "Mena?" There was a smile, "I am going to take my leave."

Wilhemia

She glanced over her shoulder and lowered the hammer. " As you wish M'lord. I trust all worked out well? "She inquired as she stepped toward the doorway. The absent scoot of kittens with a foot as she did so." Want a kitten? " she asked light heartedly at the dozen or so that ran about.

Brother Diarmuid:

There was a soft bit of laughter, as he saw the kitten
scooted so gently by her foot. "It did. He is a young man yet, and with God's blessing will see no more violence in his life." There was a moment's pause, before he said, "Please? I should like a companion...."

Wilhemia

She chuckled softly and turned away from him. The hammer was set to the side as she went about scooping up kittens of nearly all colors , making a make shift basket with her skirts. " I dare not hope for such a thing, M'lord. "She spoke softly as she looked back to him. " The lands here are kind.. but they are far from complacent. No lands are. "She admitted as she walked back toward him with several kittens in the skirt. " Take your pick, M'lord.. "She offered.

Brother Diarmuid:

There was a smile, as he watched Mena gather up the
kittens in to her skirt and bring them over. They might be lost in talking of the kittens, before he at last noticed something. He heard the gentle tckt of his rosary beads - his rosary being worn on his rope belt - drew his attention. There was a broad smile, "I think instead of choosing one....one has chosen me...." There was a kitten, his forepaws extended, playing with the round beads. It was a tabby cat, its fur black and silver.

Wilhemia

She chuckled softly and canted her head. " So it would
seem. " The smile was warm, a hint of the girl from years ago. Thankfully the priest wouldn't recognize it. She slowly crouched down and began to set aside the kittens. "And what will you name the rascal? "She inquired as she set
aside kittens..who bounded off.. in their exuberance.

Brother Diarmuid

There was a smile, as picked up his kitten and held it in
his hand. Carefully, he began to rub its forehead. Did it purr to him? "Mm..... I am not certain. Although, I doubt that it shall be Job." There was a soft smile on his features, as he contemplated the silver 'M' on its forehead.

Wilhemia

She chuckled softly, " I would hope you wouldn't.. poor
Job.. to go through all those trials upon his faith. " She grinned and watched him look over the kitten's face. " You do realize what that is, don't you M'lord? "She asked quietly as she stood up and shook out her skirts. " Its the mark of the Mother Mary. "She spoke softly. Stepping around to his side and lightly touched the kitten's cheek.

Brother Diarmuid:

There was a smile, as he looked up, "Truly?" There was a
bit of a laughter, "I do remember hearing that once.... but it had been some time ago." It had been in his childhood, shortly after being entrusted into the care of the Church. "Then there is little doubt I have found a
companion here... As for a name... I think favored Clarie as a name."

Wilhemia

She chuckled softly and gave a little nod. " An excellent
name M'lord. "She made a face for a moment before the foot scooted another adventuresome fur ball out from her skirts. " Shoo... "She stated. " If she is anything like her mother, she will be a fine mouser. " She stepped away to
put the proper distance between them once more.

Brother Diarmuid:

"I do appreciate this kindness," Brother Diarmuid said.
"Thank you." Brother Diarmuid had a different path to adult than most, and while he had grown to love his fellows in the Knights Hospitaller -- it had been a brotherly sort. It paled in comparison that the tabby kitten was showing him, nestled in his hands and purring away.

Wilhemia

" It is a pleasure if but a small token of the thanks that
are owed to you , M'lord. "She offered quietly.

[Wilhemia]

Wilhemia
They had returned back to the farm, the sled of supplies
drug behind them. " Go and awaken the coals.. that way I can start dinner
soon. "She stated to Edward as the boy tuckered out from the walk made his
way inside. She dropped the rope and looked at the supplies she had managed to
fetch while at the market. it was a good start at least.. they'd have
something more then simple meals.

Brother Diarmuid:
Clang clang. Clang clang. What would Mena make of the
sight that was even now coming up the road? She would see the familiar form
of Brother Diarmuid walking up toward the farm, his familiar walking in hand.
But the unusual sight was what he was leading by a cord. Clang clang.
Clang clang. Brother Diarmuid could not help but smile, as he turned and
gently urge the on the cow that he lead. It seemed as though he was truly
leading a menagerie, for at his heels came a black and silver tabby kitten. "Hullo!"

Wilhemia :
The noise caught her attention as she turned and stared..
the small chuckle left her lips as she watched the priest and his zoo follow
behind him. " Good day to you. "She offered warmly as she looked over the
cow. " I dare say your wish for companions..has me wondering. "She teased just
lightly as the warm easy smile appeared.

Brother Diarmuid:
Brother Diarmuid could not help but smile, "Mm. I can
only claim one as my companion is Clarie....." There was a smile, as the
tabby kitten began to play with the edges of his habit. There was a moment's
pause, before he said, "May I ask, if you have a pen?" There was a smile, "A
parishioner of mine... as asked that I bring this fine animal to you." There
was a cant of his head, as he wondered how she would accept that news.

Wilhemia :
She seemed puzzled for a moment before looking to the
animal then back to the priest. " I.. yes.. of course.. right this way. "She
spoke softly. Pride was one thing but certainly as things were going.. the
cow would be more appreciated. " Who , if I may ask? I would like very much a
chance to thank them. "She spoke looking back to the priest before opening
the barn doors. Most of the gaping holes and been fixed with boards and
nails. The interior was a great deal cleaner.. if nothing else could be said about
it. but there was a place for the cow.

Brother Diarmuid:
There was a soft smile, as he said, "Thank you." Once
more, Brother Diarmuid and his zoo began move once more. Once the cow had
been put into its pen, Brother Diarmuid would close the door behind the
creature. "Hmm." After a pause, "I cannot see what it could harm...." There was a
smile, as he said, "If it is your pleasure, I shall confer your thanks to the
Lady Viscreed." There was a smile, "She worries for you, and asked that I
bring this fine animal out to you...."

Wilhemia :
She chuckled softly and reached into the pen to stroke the
cow's side. " We thank you both for the worries, but it won't be the first
winter I've spent here. "She spoke softly. She looked at him and grinned. "
but I would be grateful if you did pass along my thanks. She will come in
handy this winter. "She patted the cow then looked at him. "How have you and
little Clarie gotten along? "She asked as she guided him back toward the door
of the barn. Even with the autumn chill in the cow would be fine on her
own. Knowing Edward the boy probably found himself a place before the hearth
to curl up.

Brother Diarmuid:
There was a smile, as he said, "We have gotten along
famously." There was a smile, as he watched the tabby kitten strutting along
at his footfalls. "She fancies stalking the edge of my habit or batting at my
rosary as I pray...." With hardly breaking stride, he would bend down and with
one hand scoop the small creature of fur up and into his hand. It seemed as
though the tabby always purred at Brother Diarmuid's touch. "I shall forever
be thankful for your gift."

Wilhemia :
"As I said.. it is a small token of thanks for the kindness
you have continued to show us. "She offered with a chuckle as the kitten took
up the sound of a small motor boat. She reached out and lightly brushed a
finger along the kitten's back. " Would you care for tea? I do promise it
is better then the last.. "She invited with a light grin.

Brother Diarmuid:
"Thank you... but, alas, no. I must return to Laurence
Hall," he said. There was a smile, "It is near Prime, and I must attend to
those duties." He would give her a half-bow, before gently sitting Clarie
back on the ground.

Wilhemia :
"Very well , travel safely, Reverence.. and again thank
you, you and the Lady Viscreed. "She ducked her head politely.

[Wilhemia]

Mena had finished all she could with the barn, the new cow was a blessing to be certain. She sat quietly in a chair her father had occupied for hours after dinner, while watching the fire. Odd how she was now doing the same thing. The bit of sewing in her lap, the shirts and such she would motify to fit Edward for the winter seasons. Clothing that allowed movement with the layers put on. She sat quietly just watching the flames dance up around the logs. The cottage itself was silent, for the most part until the scrapping noise came from the upper loft.

" Edward, what are you doing? " She called up the little boy peered down and grinned at her.

" Found a trunk.. " he say with a grand smile " I can see whats in it? "He asked as she lifted a brow. The skirts were captured in hand as she moved to the ladder that led up to the loft.

"Well move over.. "She stated as she came face to face with him. The boy scrambled backwards and pointed. She looked at it and began to laugh softly as she came to the upper floor. She looked around with the sense of nostalgia. " That was my old clothes. "She spoke softly as they both moved over to it. She knelt down as did the boy, eager to see what was in the trunk. Could be anything in that trunk. She looked at him and unlocked the edges and the pair of them pushed it back. The boy's hopeful face fell when he realized.. it was indeed old dresses. Though the fabric was far finer then he'd ever seen her wear.

" Where'd ya get these? " He asked as he lightly touched one of the satin dresses. Mena smiled and touched them herself. The eyes seemed far away for several moments.

" It was from a different time. " She spoke softly as she pulled a few of the dresses out. Goodness, she could use these down at the market as well. She had no need to wear silks and satins, lacey collars and ribbons of various colors. She shook her head and chuckled softly as the boy stared at her openly.

" Well? "He asked shifting a bit as she laughed quietly and lightly touched his face. The boy leaned lightly into that warm touch of her hand. " Come on Mena.. tell me. " he spoke quietly. She gave a small nod as she looked back to the trunk of things she had left behind.

" A few years ago, when my father, Odis, was a bailiff for the lands, I was welcome within the courts. "She spoke softly as she set the dresses aside. The small look of surprise passed over her face as she carefully lifted a book, of sorts. More two bits of wood with the sketches pressed within them. "Come.. "She spoke to him and shifted to lean her back against the wall. The book was slowly opened as she looked at the sketches she had created years ago. Each seeming so familiar as she allowed the grin to remain.

" Once I stood in the royal courts here, among friends and those I loved dearly. "She spoke softly as she paged through the faces. So many of them she remembered from memory, the charcoal pencils applied to bits of paper, fabric..whatever she could find to draw upon.

" What happened? " He asked quietly looking at the pictures and her face as it seemed to have gotten lost in the mental walk she was taking. The deep breath came in as she brushed her fingers lightly along the page before her.

" Its a very complicated story, Edward. "She spoke softly and looked at the little boy that seemed to regard her with a solemn stare. Oh buggers.. " Alright, I'll give you the quick version. Odis and I moved here fleeing my true father's men. They were not nice people, Odis spent his life keeping me safely away from them. We came here to Scotland in hopes it was far enough away from Rome. I became friends with many people here.. and for a time I was very happy. I fell in love.. with this man, Dmitri. "She held up one of the drawings. She smiled softly and sighed as she set it aside. " The bad men found us.. and Odis died while protecting me from them. I was so confused , guilt and anger.. and everything. I couldn't bare it so I decided the best thing to do was to confront my father. My real father. So I ran away to Rome... It did not go well, My father refused to acknowledge me as his true daughter.. and I was cast out into the streets. It was a woman by the name of Augusta.. that took me in, offered me a place within her house.. along with the other girls that worked for her.
I didn't dare do such a thing so I came back, when I did.. time had passed and Dmitri had married.. life had gone on while I was away. " She shrugged and set the portraits aside." it was my own fault, and I can't not fault him for wanting to find peace.. and happiness in his life. "She admitted softly looking at the boy.

The little boy looked at the portraits then back up to her.
" That's when you came to us.. Momma and me? "he asked quietly as she gave a small nod.

" Yes. I was worried of what I would say.. how to explain.. and honestly? I was heartbroken that everyone had moved on with their lives. "She admitted softly as she offered a shrug. " I was so frightened of what they would think of me.. I hid in the Underdark. "

The little boy looked up at her and rose up onto his knees, the thin arm draped over her shoulder as he hugged her.
" its ok.. you got me Mena. " he stated quietly. She set aside the book and laughed softly and wrapped her arms around him, pulling the little boy into her lap.

" Yes.. yes I do. My sweet Edward. "She chuckled and held him there. " and like Odis did for me.. I will protect you the best I can. "She promised as she kissed the little boys head. He chuckled and gave a nod leaning against her.

" Jus.. you can't die on me Mena.. I got no one else but you. "he stated quietly as she smiled and tightened her arms around him.

" Neither do I, so I guess we best take care of each other.. you think? " she asked quietly as she looked down at him. The small grin came to the boy's face as he gave a small nod.

" When ya gonna tell them you're here? " He asked softly. He leaned his head against her chest and looked up at her. The soft beating of her heart seemed a sweet lullaby.

" I don't know. I suppose when I am ready , I will. The good Reverance believes that I should. "She spoke softly to the little boy, her hand lightly running through his hair.

" Wella I'd wanna know.. "He offered with the glance up to her then let his eyes slowly droop downward. She gave a small nod and sighed , keeping quiet for now while she slowly lulled the boy to sleep. The lad let himself drift off, protected by his Mena.

She slowly slid him off her lap and onto his pallet of blankets, tucking him in before gathering up the dresses. She had no further use for finery. So in that she'd sell them as well. It wasn't until she moved the last of them a small necklace fell to the floor. She stared at it for several minutes before it was tucked away into a pocket on her apron. She wasn't quite ready to face that yet either.

[Wilhemia]

The evening of festivities was over, and well time for work again. She drew on a pair of her father's britches and a shirt while the blond hair was pinned beneath a kerchief. The boy looked at her oddly as she moved out into the barn and took down the scyth hanging on the wall. Most of the tools hadn't been touched since her father lived.. but nothing a few passes with the whet stone wouldn't fix. The young woman looked to him as she gathered what she needed.

" Edward, see to the cow please. make sure she has feed. "She stated giving a nod to the bit of hay she had bartered for. The boy gave a nod and moved off to do what he was told. She slid the stone down the blade and with several more swipes, she tested its edge. It was suitable. The nod was given to the boy as she pointed out the large ball of twine.

" Bring it along.. while I cut , you are going to bundle. "She stated as she lead him out to the fields of the tall grass. The summer had turned it from the rich green now fading to amber. Thankfully some of it was still useful. For what she had in mind.. it would serve its purpose. She rolled up teh sleeves of the shirt and set to the rocking sweep of the long handled tool.

The morning sun began to warm them as she worked steadily, pausing now and then to help the boy bundle the grasses , showing him now to knot them before returning to the work. It was hard laborous tasks.. but she could see what it was that Odis had taken a pride in. There was something one couldn't quite put her finger on, that seemed.. not only familiar but satisfying about it.

" Mena.. why we doin this? " Edward finally asked running a forearm over his head as he looked up at her. The light smile appeared as she took a moment's break.

" We have to fix the roof , don't we? Well we'll use these bundles to help with that."She informed him. The boy lifted a brow then gave a small slow nod.

" Oh. " He looked behind them to the line of bundles left behind them. " How much further we gots ta go? " he asked quietly as the warm rich laughter passed her lips and the hand pointed at a far fence post.

" Just to there. "She informed him. The boy turned and stared in horror..

" Taday?!! " He blurted out and looked up at her.

" Before the weeks out. "She stated firmly with a nod and went back to work.

" Buggers. "he mumbled and watched her waiting for her to move further forward before gathering the sliced grasses. Somehow Edward came to realize this whole country life of fresh air..and blue skies? Yeah.. it was for the birds!

[Wilhemia]

Willa worked in the kitchen area, the small humming came from her while Edward
sat at the small table working on his letters. With the Father being out of
town for the past few days, she had been busy with small things in the house and
on the farm. Collecting seeds and moving some of the rocks.. those she could
handle either by herself or with a stout stick for leverage. The fire popped
cheerfilly while the scent of the evening stew lingered on the air. The boy
looked up from the board and stared at her back.
" Mena? " He asked softly.
" Yes? "She glanced over her shoulder and lifted a brow at the serious
expression on the little boy's face. She reached for a towel to dry her hands
as she turned to face him. "What's on your mind? "She asked as she stepped
toward him and the table. Her head canted to see what he worked on to see if
that was somehow related to his woes.
" Did you mean it.. when you talked to that lady at the festival? " He asked
quietly as he shifted a little in the chair. The worry line on the boy's
forehead was beginning to show as Willa too now seemed a touch lost.
" Mean what , Edward? "She asked as she slowly crouched down to bring herself
more to his level. The eyes watched his curiously.
" When you said I was your son? " he asked swallowing hard.
" Of course I did, while I didn't bring you into the world through birth..
doesn't mean I love you any different. "She pointed out to him. The little boy's
lower lip quivered a bit as she smiled warmly and held out her arms to him. "
Come here baby. "She spoke softly as the boy all but fell off into her arms.
She knew there would be times like this.. how many did she herself go through
after her mother died?

The little boy cried himself out as she sat there on the floor. Her fingers lightsly running through his hair as he let out a deep heart felt sigh. " Mena? What will happen to the others? " He asked softly, his eyes stared off at really nothing at all.

" What do you mean, Edward?"She asked softly as she canted her head to look down at him. The small curious frown touched her face.

" Ya know, like Eban an his family.. he says his Da don't like whut he does.. that his sisters gonna end up jus like one f the.." Edward stopped and looked up at her. " Ya know. "He whispered softly. Willa looked at him for a long moment and nodded slowly. " Me and Momma..we had you.. " He pointed out as he rested his head against her chest, listening to her heart beat.

Willa blinked and stared off herself at this point. She looked around the cottage then back down to the little boy. " You know Edward.. you are so wonderful sometimes. "She whispered to him as she kissed the crown of his head. The farm was wonderful, but certainly a bit much for her to handle alone.. why not? They needed a place to be outside the Underdark.. and she could use the help, surely the coin from Bess would help off set some of the expense..but if this was managed properly?

Her arms tightened around the little boy as she held onto him. The pair of them now seemed to gaze sleepily at the fire.

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