Winter Scene, December 1333

[Lady Eirian Gwenyth Apollius]

Lady Eirian

Unto us a boy is born! King of all creation! Came he to a world forlorn, king of every na-tion! The days coming 'round to the birth of the King were only so many as could go around a bracelet perhaps, not too many now as to be the beads of a fine necklace. Though it was not yet the twelve days of Christmas, the Yuletide last longer in the islands it seems, as any day of birth, or saints, or any such holiday be it new or old way was given presidence. On the particular market corner the carol was being son to honor the son of God, the savior of man. A short, merry little ditty continued along with an impromptu practice of young ladies who formed the pairs necessary for the accompanying carol's dance. "It is a pity we have no candles, it is beautiful with candles!" They said this all together, to which the eldest woman among them echoed, "Indeed it is, but not until the time when this is done in company great, or some such hall. Lest you burn down the King's square." Amidst the laughter that peppered the ears as snow did the cheeks, a distinctly mature, whistful tone wrapped around all of the maidens to be the thing to carry it higher. " "You will dance it with us, madame?" A pair of eyes sought Eirian's promise. Eirian. It had been many years since she was seen in the city during winter, even longer since she kept the season with the court herein. One left the dancing, seeking the Artisan's answer. A promise. A needed promise. "Please? Oh they still talk of your dancing as much as your paintings, your needlework and loom. You are so modest!" Raising a brow she only smiled, giving a nod before returning her attention to the unique litte trinkets she painted to sell: ornaments that were instead of apples or wood, were painted figures of the holy family, saints, and the season's symbols. If her feet were as skilled as the treastures from her hands, no wonder the girl worked so hard! "Yes, I will go. Hush I will go, go practice more yes!" The day was beautiful with a promise as the sun set for the evening to be the same (d)


Brother Diarmuid

Across the market square from the caroling ladies, a young Augustinian neophyte would take a moment from his assigned task to smile at his elder. "It looks as you have some competition, Brother." "Mm?" Brother Diarmuid said, having been interrupted as he spoke with a parishioner - a woman of middle years - as she made a donation of clothing and well-salted beef. As the Yuletide approached, the Augustinian and his neophytes had become a frequent -- a more frequently encountered -- sight in the market square. To such an extent, that the good friar had opened rented a modest stall to take in donations. In the cold of winter, they were sorely needed. For a few moments, Brother Diarmuid drifted from his stall. He listened for a few moments as the Lady Eirian's group caroled so There was a laugh, as he turned back to his neophytes - who were busy sorting the gathered donations - and said, "Well, Brother Jerome, we cannot allow that...can we?" He grinned. Then he raised began belting out, "God rest ye merry gentlemen/ Let nothing you dismay/ Remember, Christ, our Savior/ Was born on Christ Mass day/ To save us all from Satan's power/ When we are gone astray." And it was at that point, that his neophytes would chime in, "O tidings of comfort and joy/ comfort and joy/ o tidings of comfort and joy!" While they had not the practice of Lady Eirian's group, the Augustinians were certainly made up for it by being heartfelt in their singing. (D)



Lady Eirian

She lifted her head to the song of the rousing voices drowning down the light spirited fair of the maids. Monks if nothing else were famed for voice lent to prayer or song. Was the miracle that they sang so sweetly, or that it ceased the laughter of the young? She lay down her tools to listen; a red drip of scarlet paint fell on a white cloth much akin to how the holy and mistletoe settled side by side on the wooden face unfinished. It wasn't long before the young ladies, now timid, offered up their lamb's meek tones for approval in the next verse. Of the few that went, one still lingered near to Eirian. "Go to. Leave me be! I am at work, not at dancing instruction, though you must not travel so far for it, you still must wait! Tomorrow...tomorrow! Tell your sisters and cousins to study well ,for I will be a firm teacher where this is concerned, a learned woman is a prized woman, even if it is only dancing." She leaned her head against the center beam of the tent, singing low as she painted again:"In Bethlem in Israel, this blessed babe was born.." (d)

Brother Diarmuid

Leaving his young neophyates the task of caroling, Brother Diarmuid would smile and depart from the donation laden table . For, as far as he was concerned, there was another task that needed to be taken care of: even if the monks and friars had sang in competition of the young ladies -- the elder friar wished to be a light and good hearted one. There was a smile, he approached the group, " Please...please do not quiet yourselves so. If there ever was a season for joyful singing, it is not this season? It would be a great pity, if you would still you sweet voices..... Perhaps, if you wish, we may carol the same song? You need but name it." He smiled. Once more he would offer encouragement to the young women and freely give compliments on their singing. Then he would smile, offering a half-bow to the Lady Eirian, "Good eve to you, milady!" (D)

Lady Eirian

"We, we can sing what you are singing sir. We're trying to now.." One of the brave among the lambs spoke up first, causing her fellows to nod. Another waited for one of the neophytes to begin again as Diarmuid suggested so that instead of two parties in competition, it would be one party in unified grace. Man nor woman was objectified here, or cast away. As equals they could stand beneath the setting sun to serenade the King of Kings. Whilst it ensued, the carolers caroling, the Artisan was greated by a gentle voice followed by kind manners. Blue eyes found the Friar's face to give him a warm reception. She rose from her stool, lowering herself in curtsy. "It has been too long, sir, since middle of the fall! How fare you?" (d)

Adalwulf

The winter's mist did shape a nation rolling freely from the valley and out into the sea, it parted like waters--like smoke rising from the fire, this was a serpents hell. The ship with weather worn sails, was meant for water frozen by now; plated on the front to cut through the ice, and make way to port with vicious intent. The heritage was alive with the blood shed of distant shores, and villages burned to only rise again. His homeland was still a savage one, frozen in time with a never ending winter. The snow that fell cast its spell over noble eyes that knew much, and could carry memories back to the Scandinavian lands from which they came. On the beach their ship had claimed land, and once upon a time claimed lives as horses would invade--mighty and as strong as the men that mounted their backs. News would spread of the Norwegian clan that held together like a tightly bound web, and surround them with much wonder. This land was known for how advanced their engineering had become, and distant old kings who sat on thrones of ancient times began to wonder--sending forth their sons. The first to enter upon the market was a man who stood as tall as the Queen, and could even look Lord General in the eyes. His hair was the color of the wheat in the summer, and his build of a lean stout nature. The furs of silver wolves, and the black seal skin attire made him appear of some sort of station. Yet it was the silver wolf scabbard, and broach that would give his family's name away. Adalwulf. (d


Lady Rhona

Rhona was given some free time to run her own errands and to see to her own wants while Jelenah spent time curled up in a chair next to the fire place with a book and hot cider. The fiery red head had tried to get the Lady Windsor out in the cold to enjoy the fresh falling snow to maybe make snow men or even get in a snow ball fight with the fellows. However, Jelenah refused, knowing her small frame would freeze in a matter of minutes. Rhona scrunched up her nose and had left the estate in a slightly... foul mood because of such a stick in the mud and opted to run her errands. She was making her way down one of the main pathways as others seem to be set on finding shelter from the cold. Rhona actually liked the winter season with its icy beauty. It was strange how something so cold could be so... beautiful. Something without bright colors...could be so uplifting. As the bundled up red head continued on her path, eyes did continue to turn here and there to look at those she passed whom may or may not have looked her way. She was friendly of course, flashing them all a lovely smile with bright pearly white teeth from behind curling full lips.[d]

Ahmir

While some might be enjoying the festivities of the season, looking forward to the Yuletide that Christian's seemed so eager to celebrate, yet to some, particularly one Egyptian, it was simply another day of the year, another season to pass by...and not one of his favorites. The bitter cold that could come upon the land was a far cry from the dry heat of his homelands. And while he was trained to endure the harsh conditions of climates not of his own, it simply meant he could stand the harshest of weather and continue his tasks and survive...But he hated it still, none the less. Thick layers of clothing were worn , as a fur cloak wrapped around his the athleticly toned and muscled frame. The hood of the cloak was pulled up over his head, and normally, a scarf or such would be over the majority of his face, but currently, the resourceful and globetrotting Egyptian would allow that material around his neck as a pipe was held in one gloved hand, the tip of which was placed between his lips as he inhaled the smoke from the burning mixture. Eyes the color of the golden Egyptian dunes looked out, enjoying the sound of singing, within the markets, while silently observing those mingling about the square while standing back and away from the main rabble, nestled in a lovely corner overlooking the area, while blocking any wind that might threaten to enhance his uncomfortably cold state. As the group of foreigners came into the square, a quick look over the lead man would be taken, while golden colored eyes narrowed as he tried to place where the man came from by his features and style of dress. Of course, a familiar redhead would catch his eye as well, causing a slight smirk upon his lips as he just nestled in his lean against that wall a bit more comfortably. ~d~


Raelin

An amazing gift indeed was the joys and beauty of the yuletide. There was always something magical as the snow softly fell from the high heavens and coated upon the lands it's delicate dusting. Yet even still a small ounce of melancholy spilled upon the fragile contents of her porcelain visage. Slowly moving down the streets the crimson cloaked woman side stepped into the main square just in time to hear the calming delight of carolers. Thin lips twitched into the brink of a fragile smile yet with a bit of disappointment to note her heart ached far to greatly for peace to over come her.. Even now. Long legs carried her gracefully upon the pebbled street while small hands nestled comfortably within the hand warmers draping just in front of her.. Raven tendrils folded neatly within the heavy confinements of her hood and, with a tilt her expressive eyes shifted upon the beautiful faces of those gathered.. Many of whom she had yet to meet. Nevertheless a warming invite was there upon her auroa should anyone seek out a conversation. Passing Ahmir she finally smiled..Bowed her head and ventured toward the elegant arrangement of candles

Lady Eirian

"Fair you well, Brother, and God go with yours." Neophyte and maid alike moved through the streets away from the Artisan's stall, singing carols of the season in a newfound spirit of friendship. What else moved through the square? Faces foreign to her with stories from distant places, faces that had not been seen in months with words on lips waiting to fill in the space of absence. Together they came, moving in and out of one another's lives as string through a tapestry. Or now, as paint over empty space coloring an unused place of life. "Good eve you all, and blessings of the season!" What a different greeting amidst those calling with things to sell, prices to name. Things to push outin their palms. Treasures, trinkets. Excess, necessity. All of it could be found, but it was the gentle hearted curio seeker that came to the turnstyle made in the way of tree banches, wooden dowels on one center post made to spin with the ornaments already completed. What destiny would they, like people, hold? Some to hang above child birth beds, others to bless away sickness. All small enough to adorn a yuletide tree with candles and fruits. Raelin's observation of the candles warranted the welshwoman to smile anew. "He is a wonderful crafter, the candlestick maker," she said on his behalf while calling no attention to the man "As is his wife, she will lay designs in to his finely wrought wax. No finer light nor brighter colors will e'er you find my lady." Between her fingers the holy virgin held christ, each with crowns of holly, ivy, and misteltoe. (d)\

Lady Aegraine

A wolf fur line parka covered her body, leather leggins and hight boots the rest of her. Ae wore the garments her had dressed in that time back in Norge, before Aegraine was born. It was like that time, with snow in the dark airmaking steam of exhaled breath. She was like her mother, in those clothes, expecting her first and nothing else fit anymore. "Oh look, decorations for a babe's crib. Straw and feathers, for the stable and the angels; clever made that be. I shall have one of these charming items.:: she spoke to the shop keeper. Dmiitrii was late at his meeting at the castle so Ae shopped and wandered, her mind on the season, of celebration and the spring to come. (d)


Lady Rhona

As she made her way further into the ever populated paths and walkways. Some wore cloaks for warmth, other wore them for mystery. Rhona wore hers to keep the chill from sinking deep into her small frame and freezing to death. Hazel eyes continued to scower the many wares and other items for sale to any and all that would stop and look. The idea of purchasing a few items to give to those she knew and loved crossed her mind. She did have a small basket in tow that did carry a couple items only thus far. She moved over to a vendor that had trinkets that sparkled like the icicles, or like the stars on a clear cold cloudless night under a full winters moon in the palest of blues. How pretty she thought to herself as a hand reached out to cup one and stare. Head canted as she eyes the jewel while the man promised to make her a deal she couldn't refuse. His banter became lost, background noise to join the rest. Was she eyeing it for herself or perhaps for the Lady of Windsor Estate? None knew of course save the lil red head. She frowned though and gave a small smile to the man as she reluctantly backed away by a step or two. Leave it toRhona to not pay attention where she was walking in a slowly growing area ... where none other one of the orphans that ran the street came zipping by and snagging the small loaf of bread that had been in her basket. Rhona twirled about in a flash and yelled. "Oi... ye brat! Thas right.. ye better run cause iffn Ah get a hold of ye..." A pale face slowly began to fill with color, but not before the winter cold would cool the rising heat in creamy cheeks. She huffed and turned on her heels, again, not paying attention to where she was going due to her quickly altered state of mind. [d]

Adalwulf

Ancient voices echoed through the streets with whispers on the wind of Northern lands where winter's white was forever, and the true celebration of the Saint Nicholas had once carried upon his back good will and peace towards men. The symbolic nature of the season had never once changed, though on lands fresh and new, something about the square felt familiar. The towers of the tall buildings had been a shadow only in dreams until now, though over his frigid face the admiration did not show. It was not often the heart of the wolf did beat so fiercely, but the excitement of the Scandinavian son of a Norwegian mother, would fill his helm with the sound of its own drum. Vagabonds the lot of them following on the oilskin heels of the fur-lined boots as the men in leather armor would flank the tall man. They followed his lead, like shadows drifting across the sky, and hunted like a true pack. This market is rich, I have not seen so many nations in one place in all my life. Well over 30 years, Adal, could claim, and the language he spoke as ancient here in Skye as the trees. The men would nod, with orders tucked well into their minds of shelter, and contacts that needed to be made. Theirs was a mission that so few dare, for who would want to leave the rocky mountains of their homeland on such a season.Moving through the streets now with less then before, Adalwulf would never be kept alone, but it was with the support of his family that he even ventured on this trek--he could live by their wishes to be escorted. The same little brat that ran from the woman with hair the color of blood would skirt around the long legs of the Norseman, and the heavy wolfskin would catch in the wind as his eyes would settle like frozen coals on her.(d

Lady Raelin

Turning just in time to notice the beautiful welch woman's approach she reared backward ever slightly from the candle arrangement to warmly return the conversation. "Such a magnificent work of art these candles are. The tenacious diligence is warmth appreciated and cherished" She smiled at the other woman.. "I've never before met such a nation that's people were so open and kind. It truly is a haven for all" Her tone was ever loving and almost divine as she spoke from the depths of her heart.. "My name is Raelin" Dark hair waffled into the chilled wind as she bowed her head out of respect. Soon she would venture over the the merchants and look upon there wares but, in all truthfulness she had no one to buy a gift for.. Her family had been taken from her all in one single act.. The ship wreck. With but a small cringe to the sad thought her jaw rolled and she fought inside herself to keep from sadness.. This night was for celebration, and unity.. She would not spoil joy for others.

Lady Eirian

"It seems that though this island has always been of Scotland, it is like a world unto itself no? With a heart to offer ,and one to return. It is a worthwhile spirit to have." The long, willow wrought digits captured one of the items on red ribbon, leading over the small ledge seperating the two women. An offering of greeting, of remembrance, she opened Raelin's hand to receive it. As if a twins the dark hair on Raelin's head found the same in Eirian's, strands wafting away from the twists of ebon laquer to dilly-dally dance on the winter's air. Closing her hands, the surprise of what she held would be left to the woman to figure. "Welcome to Turas Lan, and to Skye. My name is Eirian." A new soul was oft hesitant to fan wings out to greet the wind even if it was desired. Sometimes, all one needed was another pair of like instruments. "Say now, I see others. If you are not adverse to introductions? Hello, Lady Rhona! Good evening to you, Lady Engineer --- " Now here she paused. Eirian came 'round the ledge to reveal all that was lacking in her height when compared with such as the Norsemen observing the rich world. She was no morethan five feet, even that was debateable by an inch! The braid she wore was near the length of her, the skin she had rivaled the whiteness of the snow were it not for the blushed face. Eirian seemed too ethereal to be real at times. For now, she studied the state of Aegraine coming to the pleased conclusion, "Congratulations and blessings to the house of Zurban! How long has it been, that I see the Lady in such a way and have not known it! Have I lied in the country so long! It is good I winter in the city then! " The men did not seem as apt to socialize as the women. So stoic they looked! "If the men wander we shall all meet someone new, my heavens..such a tall soul is yon." The egyptian was tall, but the Norsemen was a giant (d)


Ahmir

Upon glimpsing the sight of Raelin, he would offer a smile in return to the woman's own before she continued on through the vendors and the square to examine the wares that were presented for sale. He, though, was quite content where he was, as the wind wouldn't touch him nearly as coldly as if he were walking about among the others. Besides, he was happy to puff away, blowing smoke into the air, though as breath was visible coming from the moth and nose due to the cold anyway, only the sight of him actually holding the pipe to his lips would truly give proof. He chuckled, watching as the youth quickly snatched the bread from that fiery redhead's basket, while she stood there, wailing at the boy loud enough that surely the young orphan believed her to be hot on his heels. He just chuckled again and shook his head before he noticed the Norsemen stopping and looking towards Rhona. Brow quirked slightly as his interest would be in seeing just what happened there. ~d~


Lady Aegraine

Aegraine had just arrived at Eirian's stall, her hand out to greet as well, she shook the snow from the fringe of wolf that sheilded her face and gave a light laugh."Eirian, how long I am unsure, but tis certain come spring, there be another Zurbran in this world, just when I had about given up hope. And how is your little one, the girl I saw so many years ago, when come to your home with Dmi? I am afraid to see how she has grown; has it been that long?" Ae twirled the straw item she purchased and glanced over at the tall men, the Norseman she did not recognize. Men had not noticed Ae before, her not being so ladylike and they certainly did not even know she existed, in the condition she was in at the time." I am Aegraine." she spoke to the new young lady with Eirian. "I was engineer but for a while I am off duty, writing instruction books and waiting." she gave a shy smile and glanced to her expanded wasitline.


Lady Rhona

There was the gentle and accidental bumping of shoulders between strangers that had the red head moving with the action. It caused her to turn slightly, and hazel eyes followed the stranger until she spotted another eyeing her? Red brows arched as she looked to the flaxen haired male that stood as tall as a mountain. Was he giving her the stink eye? Rhona narrowed those hazels at him and lifted her chin a little before rolling her shoulders and turning from him with her head held high. If he honestly thought his size alone was enough to scare her, he was sadly mistaken! The fiery red head heard her name being called and when she looked from the Norseman to Erian, her features changed There was the gentle and accidental bumping of shoulders between strangers that had the red head moving with the action. It caused her to turn slightly, and hazel eyes followed the stranger until she spotted another eyeing her? Red brows arched as she looked to the flaxen haired male that stood as tall as a mountain. Was he giving her the stink eye? Rhona narrowed those hazels at him and lifted her chin a little before rolling her shoulders and turning from him with her head held high. If he honestly thought his size alone was enough to scare her, he was sadly mistaken! The fiery red head heard her name being called and when she looked from the Norseman to Erian, her features changed in an instant. They softened greatly and melted away like snow by the suns warming rays. " G'eve tae ye Lady Artisan!" came the reply with a wave. However, Rhona had no clue that another male was watching her, one whom she ha managed to avoid very well since his misunderstanding of vibes. There was a glance back to the Norseman where she smirked and then began to move along, she had better things to do than to play the staring game with boys. [d]


Adulwulf

As quickly as they had gone the dark clad wolves would round about their Prince, and with the whispers they would confirm the settlement. Kings and Queens would be notified of the arrival of foreign titles, but even the taverns here he would bet would be as same as the castle. With a quick glance once more to the woman with the red hair, he would give a nod to the men before he too would follow in hunt of a warm meal, and a bath. This was not finished yet. (d


Lady Raelin

Eirian was so petite in comparison to Raelin's daunting five feet and eleven statute. Thin shoulders rolled downward as if to attempt the impossibility of shrinking herself. She readily accepted the other woman's offering. Left hand extended forward while long digits coiled outward to thred within the silkness of the ribbon that pinned themselves apart. Raven hair blended and meshed with her own as though it were an extention of one another. Twins indeed! Side stepping upon introduction of others approaching Raelin made a point to smile and address each and every one with careful grace and humility. Blues shifted over to Aegraine. "It's a pleasure to meet you milady. I am Raelin" Observant as she was open and kind she did not miss the evidence of the other woman's small bump. New life always brought her satisfaction. "An engineer.. Most impressive" She favored and eyed Eirian a small grin. "Adverse? Nah on the contrary I am most happy to meet new faces. This night has proven to bring me delight. A very happy yultide indeed!" She chuckled and began to play with the mysterious trinket placed within the palm of her hand As the red head moved over to there growing circle a calming smile was directed onto her. The Irish lass knew in an instant that this gal was spirited and willful. Chuckling she singled her out. "Tis nice to meet ye too, milady. I am Raelin" Lips briefly chattered as a soft breath of the wind enveloped around her tall frame.. A reminder of the month they were in.

Lady Eirian

Inside of her hands she would find an image of St. Nicholas delivering toys to the waiting shoes of little children, his bishop's crook in hand ,his assistant near his side. A piece of life stolen from the annuals of time for the keeping inside of Raelin's hand. Hand grasped at the offered Engineer who waited now her turn to become a mother. Too much time had passed, indeed! "I am glad you aren't adverse Raelin, as you here this is Aegraine. She is brilliant, so brilliant the King will put none another before her sage opinion on such matters. Look at you! You are radiant Aegraine, positively radiant, it is not even spring! God be praised. A child of Dimtrii Zurban. How ever do you plan to keep up with him or her?" What a child it would be! Wedged in stone, studying inclines. Racing, running wild with delight in to each new day. The welsh woman lifted her hand to beckon Rhona closer "and you, mistress! Another refugee from the country come to the city? I am wintering here it is said the Queen desires all her ladies thus to court, and where is the Lady Windsor?" She teased, coming round to hug Rhona thusly. "Now, have you noticed how that one," she said to Rhona of the egyptian "Keeps looking? Hmm, how many poor men have you enchanted with this head of hair of yours, those eyes? It should be criminal." There is my daughter, Hope, and you may have not seen my son, Luke." All of six years old, the child hope had her mothers dark hair and white skin, though it was flushed with ruddy good health, bright brown eyes with blue centers to them. Her gorgeous eyes were Eastern, the only indication her birth father was a man not with them now. Her son luke was in every way Apollo's child, though both had his name. Luke now held on to the leg of hi smother before finding some toy to amuse himself (d)

Ahmir

Ahmir had indeed been watching the redhead, though once it seemed the encounter between her and the Norsemen fizzled out before anything could spark to life, he had taken note that Rhona and Raelin were at the same booth, and those almost golden colored eyes shifted to once more shift about the gathered crowd as they haggled price, purchased and sold their wares. He was unaware of the observation he was under or the conversation that involved him in it at all. So he just continued to smoke that pipe and observer in silence for the time. He could be simply lounging, or waiting for something...with him, it was anyone's guess. ~d~

Lady Rhona

Rhona was soon approaching Eriain and company with a wide full smile on those lips of hers. "Tis a pleasure tae meet ye as well Lady." she said in reply to Raelin. Rhona didn;t think she had met Aegraine yet but it didn't keep her from flashing a smile to the soon departing woman. Rhona smirked to Eirian with all that foolish talk. "M'Lady Windsor is well, but 'ome n' next tae a warm roaring fire." she replied with a chuckle. The embrace was returned, but perhaps much more hearily than expected? When Eriain mentioned how someone kept staring... Rhona turned those pretty hazels i n his direction with a single red brow arched. When she looked harder, which wasn't hid or done discretely, she frowned and rolled her eyes... "Oi.. tis him.. bah.." she replied before shaking her ead and looking between the two. "'Ow many... none tha I wish tae have fer sure M'Lady Artisan. Men be nothing but 'eartache n' troible..." speaking from a recent heart break possibly? One might assume such easily due to a certain golden haired boy. Hazels cut to Ahmir once more, staring blankly for a moment and then shaking her head softly before coming back to attention. " 'Ow 'ave ye both been? Hm?" she asked as she plastered on a smile for them both. She should march right up to that Egyptian and smack him just for the heck of it! Just for his being near! [d]

Lady Aegraine

"Good to be meeting you; I come from a family of engineers for siege defense; I found my place in the world here, in Skye. " Her English accent hides her Irish ancestry well but those bright green eyes are pure Erin. "By the summer I am back to my work." she watched Hope and Luke, admiring them, in her new appreciation of children. "I wish I had more time; we need talk again, before the birthing, things I would ask my Mother were she here. But Dimitrii waits. We will meet again, eh?" she was cheerful and waved a gloves hand as she left, headed to the Inn where she was to meet Dmi. "I will call upon you before I go back to the Lake, eh, Eirian?" (d)

Lady Raelin

There was truth in stating the beauty that was to behold the red head. The vibrance of her hair was an envy to all over women. Yet Raelin quietly smiled and allowed that quiet moment to stare upon St. Nicholas in her hand. Thumb traced gingerly over the wooded carvings and, with a soft sigh blues raised upward to level upon Ahmir as the man appared to be eyeing the women at there station. This was the single cause for a ghost of a smile to trace against the curvature of her mouth. "Many congratulations Lady Aegraine" She smiled as the woman quickly made her leave.. Poor woman.. Perhaps she was feeling ill? Raelin could not have blamed her

Lady Eirian

"I am very well, though those men you mention of heartache..mm..mine only yearns for my own. Despite the season there was a great matter for him to oversee, the Kingdom's safety waits for no season, but he has gone off with the legions that tour to see that all is well." What a strange act for a man whom was famed to be retired, not to mention his age was well beyond his fiftieth year. Those that knew of the Apollius knew age never made his strength fail as it had other men. Rumors of his strength were attributed to the likes of blessing, luck, and even talk of witchery given the youthful features of his own wife. Poppy coke the lot of it, but the family enjoyed a good story. Everyone bid Aegraine her fair well, leaving Eirian to ponder just when her call again would be. "Silly me no? No matter how we have angered, we have always mended it, some times greater than others. We must be perfect fools by your reckoning Rhona, hmm?" She teased, "Will you not come ladies, sit by my little fire oven, be warm. Shall I invite the man who stares?" She called out just to get ahmir's attention, grinning all the while "You miss the sun sir! Jesu knows, you shan't find it in Scotland right now!" (d)

Ahmir

After a moment, those instincts of his would kick in, causing the hairs on the back of his neck to stand at attention, and it would have nothing to do with the cold. His gaze cut to the side, in the direction of the women, where he would find that Rhona was indeed looking at him openly. Both brows rose upwards and he took another puff from that pipe, before it was pulled from his lips and teeth, so that he could pat the ashes from the bowl, into the gloved palm of his hand, which he then sprinkled and brushed off the glove to drift down to his feet. He'd also take note of Raelin's gaze slipping in his direction as well, before the other woman behind that stall would end up speaking up loud enough for him to hear her words. Honestly, he didn't believe that Rhona would care to have him there...and though he meant no offense to her, he would indeed be interested in finding a bit of warmth in the bleak cold. He pushed his way from the wall and made his way over to where the three women were gathered. He nodded in greeting and respect to the women there before he spoke up, his Common laced thickly with his Egyptian accent. "Gratitude. Indeed this cold is not the weather my skin was bred for." He turned his gaze towards Rhona and Raelin as he spoke up in greeting. "Good day, Rhona...Raelin. A pleasure to encounter you both once again." ~d~

Lady Rhona

Brows arched then to Raelin and then a friendly soft smile followed before she was turning her attention back to Eirian. Rhona just snickered, but then gave a shake of head. "Nae, he looks as if he is well.." but then it was to late and the Lady Artisan had invited him over. Wonderful. She rolled her eyes, but as he neared, put on a pleasant enough smile for him. Those to Eirian and Raelin were more genuine. "G'eve tae ye as well .... Ahmir." But in her mind, she was thinking Ah wish Ah could say the same ye twit! She made sure to keep plenty of distance between herself and the dark skinned male, and stood huddled up with the others, pulling her cloak in and tighter. She sighed. "Oi.. Ah am sorry, but... Ah must be on me way... the Lady, she waits fer me." She gave an apologetic smile to Eirian first and then Raelin. "Twas a pleasure... " she then looked to Ahmir and nodded, she'd remain poilte for now. As long as he didn't try no funny business like last time! She nodded to him. "Ahmir..." it was here she would turn and begin the trek back to the Windsor Estate. Giving word to her Lady that the Artisan would no doubt ask to see done.

Lady Raelin

The invitation for warmth would never be refused.. At least on her part! Swan neck tilted and she rolled off her heels to fall into step beside the petite woman and ventured toward the small oven. Rhona's sudden change of demeanor was rather humorous... As was her sudden change of plans when she announced she was retiring for the night. A thin brow wiggled upward in askance but, with a smile she nodded out of acceptance. "Fair eve, Lady Rhona" Lightly shaking her head she seated herself beisde Eirian and waved the Egyptian male to sit near them. She did not know the back story behind the rationale of why Rhona was so abrupt with him.. Yet it was not her place even to inquire.. Small hands* waved upward to fan over the billowing hear of the oven and, with a soft sigh she eyed the other woman.. "Thank you for the gift.. I will treasure it" She slid it into her pocket for sake keeping. *

Lady Eirian

"What ever did you do, sir?" She whispered as Ahmir saw fit to approach, only to stall. Was the offense so grave he thought twice before approaching? Amazing. Men deemed superior but haulted by either pretty faces or a woman's righteous anger. Afterall, hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Mischievous smile dimpled her cheeks as she turned to regard Raelin in Rhona's sudden absence. Duty was not all that called the spirited Irishwoman away. While she waved farewell to her friend she nodded "It is a treasure indeed. Perhaps pray you St. Nicholas to bring Rhona forgiveness and the foreigner resolve for Christ's mass day?" A bite of lip, a chuckle of laughter poorly hidden beforeshe gathered up the poker to prod at the oven (d)

Lady Raelin

Unable to withhold her mirth a soft chuckle ebbed between the fine line of her cracked lips. Pale cheeks briefly fluttered a gentle crimson as she nodded. "I'm not sure prayer alone could harvest such a feat.. But the effort might just be worthy in finding out the true out come" She nodded and made a mental note to pray before entering her bedding this night on her new friend's behalf. "From what little I know of Ahmir.. He was most helpful" A man that took intiative.. They were few and far between it seemed as of late.

Lady Eirian

"He seems to have his secrets, but what man, or person does not. The island itself is full of secrets, a perpetual puzzle it is said. Even the foundations were made to be so. It keeps life, interesting." Eirian rubbed her ungloved hands by the flames until they pinkened. Only then did she slide them to comfort inside of sheep skin gloves. "all is possible in prayer, so the good Church says. Mayhap if we pray extra hard?" The laughter couldn't stop! Not that it was meant to offend others for humor's expense, but Rhona's sudden exit was nothing except gossip worthy. As all talk would with new introductions, it turned to favor the people that stayed, not those that left. "From where do you come Raelin, what do you seek for yourself here?" (d)

Lady Raelin

"Some puzzles are not meant to be cracked.. I adore the enigma and the intrigue" She cooed and stole into laughter once more. "Brother Diarmuid would be most please to hear you say such a thing" Speaking of him.. She hadn't seen much of the man as of late. She thought of the possibilities of why Rhona fled so quick and suddenly.. But when Eirian inquired about her naitive homeland her smile faded and memories returned. " I am from Ireland.. My family held a Duchy there.." She tried not to think of them and her loss. "I'm afraid god has taken them from me.. But I am a firm believer in fate and justice.. There was a divine reason why I survived the shipwreck.. Not my plight is to find out what I am to become" She paused and fell into quiet consideration.. "Jean-Claude was kind enough to allow me residence at his home. The apartment above his shop.. There I was employed as a seamstress.." She enjoyed learning a new trade.

Lady Eirian

"Indeed, for if we knew all mysteries, why live." Opinions shared, she mused aloud her own continued with a little hum as she listened to Raelin's story. As it progressed she fell silent as the newly risen moon came to shine over she being all that remained of a family. Sorrow was conveyed with mercies with but a glance of the eyes, deep, almost cosmic in their blue as if touching on aspects of God's whimsy by merely looking out on the world, serving as mirrors to reflect it back to others. She crossed herself in respect for the dead, in God's graces given to Raelin for survival. "You will find a new life, Jean-Claude is a very good man." A strange man, a confusing man. A man who adored finery but often dirtied his hands in unspeakable ways for the names of the devoutly scientific but not the devoutly pious. A man who for all of his seeming mixed morality was merely a better balance of light and dark than any of them could hope to be. She owed Jean-Claude her life, a debt paid when she returned him his. A story for another day, perhaps, or like the enigmas one never to be told aloud. (d)

Lady Raelin

Truely Jean-Claude was the finer example of both night and day. Dueling his personality well over the balance of time and ages. She saw within his eyes a certain wisdom that was uncommon.. Even for the likeness of a man his age. For that alone he held a great deal of her admiration. "Yes.." She agreed.. "He is a very good man.. He accepted me without even uttering a word." Had he been any other man she might have truly founded it to be cryptic. Yet Jean borerich credentials in this nation. Many she would assume owed the man there very lives.. She was yet another number to add to the listing. A smile was given to Eirian as she spoke. "I thank you very much for your support. Already I am feeling myself more and more at home here.. It is the primary cause of all of you..Friendship is often times stronger than any matromonies. I look to a long standing connection to this Isle and it's inhabitants." She paused andraised her eyes to the heavens.. "If ever you are in need.. For company.. Seeking a new gown for any occasion.. Please know I am here." She reached for her wrist and lightly issued a tiny squeeze.


Lady Eirian

"It is the way of things. All of us that have come, we are all refugees from somewhere, some dark time. An ending, where here was our final, our true beginning. It is nowonder you come well to that, much like you thread a needle for fabric, you will be but one more necessary stich in our tapestry, Raelin." The instant kindness the woman showed, a sense of poise in the time she could have mourned gave Eirian a strong sense of her. Already she could feel their threads, ting together. It was not like Eirian to ask for much of others, but there were times when even she defied her own strange conventions. For one who said to others she often did not sing in public, she was renowned for her devotion to the arts, intellect, and piety. "Friendship is stronger than matrimony. A good way to put it. Aye, yes!" She laughed heartily, for years of friendship had survived three betrothals and two marriages, the second where she found her most happiness though not without much toil. What was suffering but a thing to show the shine of the soul? Squeezing back, she nodded "aye, and you the same. another needle will always be of service. My poor household, we can only sew so quickly given the number of men at arms who make holes in breeches, and children growing as weeds. Perhaps I may bring you bolts of my fabric to make in to dresses, would that be pleasing? Some have wished it so but I can not fashion the clothes as I once could, Being within the city now it seems strange not to take the chance to make good coin to use next year within the household, the fields and settlements. My needlework is mostly a keen sense of embroidery, a good turn at the loom or spinning wheel. It will be good to share such a thing, the winter will..bond me to others again. We are such hermits, my household and I. Sought for but do not often seek much. Even my apprentices now bring me other apprentice sto the country. City rhythm...it is interesting to adjust to again." (d)