Winter Wolves and an Old Wolf

[Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem]

Maahes: The snow had ceased to fall, the night crystal and clear but still frozen with almost a complete foot of snow. The days sun had melted the top only to freeze the wake of each step again. The couple had returned in the nick of time for the evening meal, and after dinner while the evening activities pressed over the valley the Beast had been missing. Maahes often never missed the fire pit where many gathered to tell stories of Christmas's past, and the hopes of a bright new year. Remnants of a bath trailed down the hall, and the scents of his musky oils remained. Now all that was left was the light of the fire inside their room, and a lump under the covers. However Maahes was not asleep ...just COLD! (D
 
Ealora: There was always a sense of excitement in returning home. The morning sickness still plagued her enough that she only eaten toast that morning at thr Lily before they returned home. True to her words. Sam and Taylor had come back to gather the cart and list and by the time they returned that evening and her stomach was rumbling. All through dinner, she smiled and nodded but spoke little. Really since being back home, she was not wondering which room to turn into the nursery. What colors would she make it. Only several months till the baby would arrive and that could go fast. Had not the last couple of months flown by? She offered a final kiss to Maahes cheek as she rose to help clean up the dishes and the left overs. Leaning an ear open to the fire pit as those around it laughed and talked of good times past as the dishes were washed, dried and put away. Celadon eyes kept traveling to the older woman who worked in silence beside her. She had not been very nice to Agatha and while yes, Agatha had not been kind to her, she had been honest and Ealora had always prided herself on being honest, of holding high regard for those who were honest themselves. Slowly she rubbed her hands against the apron tied around her front before reaching behind to untie the cords as she spoke. "Agatha, I'd like to ask for your assistance in the next couple days in creating baskets for the families, we have the crates of wine left from the fall festival and I'd like to make some bread as well. I have supplies the families need to make it through winter but perhaps you will go with me into town in a day or two to get gifts for the yule season to add to the basket?" Honeyed voice had dropped an ovtive. It was hard to be nice to a woman she knew didn't like her simply for not knowing her. Celadon eyes shifted to the hallway, where had Maahes gone anyways?*
 
Agatha: Moving through the kitchen like a hermit with her stick her good eye opened to peer into the eyes of the woman. However, it seemed she was searching into her soul and of course taking. "Do you know how to bake bread?" She seemed surprised that the Pirate Queen had even asked such a thing, but in fact was more surprised she knew how to bake. Her beady eyes peered then over the shoulder of the pirate looking at the dishes done and not broken. Already she had one up on her husband, "Has Shaden put you up to this." Sounded like something her sister would offer..not her. What had come over Ealora? Had Maahes talked some sense into her? Or...was she nesting. A silent prayer went out to the Lord that her charms had not been too late, and she was not pregnant with his child. Moving her eyes over the ladies present she looked down the bridge of her nose at the woman before her. "If you wish it, it shall be done." Against the hem of her skirt a child no older then 4 perhaps on the edge of 3 pulled against the fabric. "What child?" The aged woman turned her cross eyes to the brightest of blue. The chubby fingers motioned to her ruby red lips with her fingers in a cup shape. "Drink I know, Child ye want yur milk..Lord..Mercy ye all be the death of me." Her slumped form wobbled over the tiles of the kitchen floor to poor what was left of the cows milk until next service. (d
 
Shaden: Shaden had come with them to red wall for a few days.. Avery had suggested a break.. from her duties restoring and redecorating the Lily, and the workmen had agreed they would finish faster without her constantly making changes helping..... So when Maahes and Ealora had offered her a few days at RedWall  she accepted.. packing up some things she had gathered for the refegee children, London the yorki and a few books she had been intending to read.. and only one small trunk of her clothing..all this strapped to the carriage.. that followed the Aziems.. to  their home in the valley  Of course she was never out of Nic's sight.. well almost sight. considering.. and He packed his things as well traveling to Redwall to watch over his Charge.. Things unpacked and in her room.. she had rested the afternoon napping lighlty... but now ventured out.. into the kitchen following the sound  of voices...  " I assure you Agatha... you would not want me giving her ideas on baking anything.. tis not a talent I have.. last time I tried to bake there was a fire... "  she chuckled  her eyes wandering to the golden haired little girl.. it was the same one.. she had met.. before.. the one who didn't speak.. her face softened perceptibly... as she slide into a seat at the table.. watching the goings on and giving her sister a sweet.. reinforcing smile..  " I think it's a very nice idea Ealora had.. to give baskets out to the people here.. I wish I had thought of it.. "(d)
 
Ealora: Her hand absently pressed against her stomach as her head turned away from Agatha, sucking in a breath and slowly repeating in her head...1...2...3...4..5...6...7..8..9..10. "Bread is about the only thing I know how to make.."She finally answered turning her attention back to the woman. "No Shaden did not.."Her words cut off and she turned as Shaden swayed into the kitchens. She had missed dinner and yes Ealora moved around the kitchen to gather some of the left overs and reheat them. "Are you hungry?"She tossed towards Shaden with a grin. Like husband, like wife. A smile was turned to Eppie, poor girl. No doubt the spectacular looking child had a beautiful voice. If only they could get her to speak. Fingers reached to stroke out over the golden hair of the little girl absentlymindedly. "I stopped at the bakery before coming home and I have an apple fritter with cinnamon and sugar crust, do you want to share it with me Eppie?" With a turn of her head, she smiled at Shaden and let out a laugh. "You make me look bad with all you've done for them."She teased with a smile and a wink.*
 
Agatha: Agatha turned a smile to the ladies, but grinned as Shaden made her approach. "I am so very glad to see you, Child and very pleased to know you will be staying with us for a few days. I know the girls have been looking forward to you being here for some time. With the snow they are unable to make it to the village for their lessons, perhaps you can continue with their schooling?" Little chatty cathy huh? When Ealora turned to Eppie to ask of the treat she quickly made trail to hide behind the skirts of Aggie. "Lord, Mercy, Child will ye get off me." Such a bitter tone of the old, her age showing then as her tired eyes fell amused upon the toddler. "Don't mind her, Time heals all."  The child pulled on the skirts and threw her chubby little hands up to be lifted, "I can't, my back has been aching you'll only add to it." Her shoulders fell forward and her arched back bent over her cane to make her way to clear the table. (d
 
Shaden : She had missed dinner and was famished... while Ealora had begun reheating a few things.. she had stood and taken over... Ealora busy with the child.. she knew her sister was going to make a wonderful mother.. she could tell already in the way she fairly radiated motherly love.. and the adoration she showed to the wordless child..  " I would be glad to help in anyway I can, and certainly I can see to their education while I'm here.. "  a soft smile pulled at her lips until Ealora's words of Shaden shaming her with her gifts to the children.. even in teasing.. it settled in her heart.. perhaps she had overstepped... quietly she finished filling her plate and moved back to the table " You and Maahes gave them a place to live and begin anew.. all I did was offer some clothes and books.. you are the ones they look to for a new life"  she settled her fork and spoon beside the plate.. as she watched the child hide behind Agatha's skirts much as she had the first time she had met her.. glacial hues founds Ealora's emerald ones seeming to tell her.. to engage the child again.. after all she was the Lady of the House and soon to be mother everyone needed a little practice with children...(d)
 
Ealora: Celadon eyes found Shaden's, seeming to say, told you she didn't like me. Though a smile curled over her lips as she moved from the kitchens only to return with her bag which had accompanied her into town and back. Removing the brown package holding the fritter, she pulled the wrapping off, cut it in quarters upon a plate and slid it aside. "Agatha, go rest by the fires with the others. I'll finish cleaning up.."She spoke to the womans backside as she protested about picking the little girl up because of her back. Her heart squeezed at the sight of those little arms, begging to be picked up. Had her son every did that? Wiping the sugar and cinnamon sticking to her fingers by rubbing them together, she moved around the counter, in slow even steps and offered her arms down to the girl. "I'd like to hold you Eppie, if you will let me. I have a present for you.."Leaning down slightly, she kept her movements slow, no need to have the child alarmed, perhaps they would finally hear a voice but a screaming one if she went to fast, slowly she picked the little one up, setting her against her hip to move back to the plate. A slice of the fritter was the first thing to be offered to the child before she was reaching into her bag to retrieve the little girls present. It was a doll, with long cascading black hair, the dolls eyes blackened like with makeup in rich designs and clothes in an Egyptian dress. It looked practically brand new but in truth, it had been with Ealora since she was a little girl and one of the few possessions she had taken with her when she left Alexandria. "This is for you.."Honeyed voice flowed softly and she kissed the little girls temple as she handed the doll over. "Maahes and I have decided that whoever of the families wishes to stay, may. We are going to reconstruct the huts after winter. I have to admit, I'm quite happy about it. They will have their own homes on the land. Tend it, care for it as we shall along side them. Never thought I'd become a lady with land and people on it. The world is a funny place yes?"She hummed in a small laugh.*
 
Agatha: The aged body of the woman stilled in the doorframe and glared with her good eye at the arms holding the child. "I think I'd like to go home. Eppie!" The child started to kick away from Ealora until the doll was brought up and she settled her gaze upon the beautiful gown the doll was wearing. Her fingers curled around the fabric and she smiled. However once Agatha yelled the child again threw a fit into the arms of the woman until she would be forced down. "Clean the mess up Ealora, I'll not have the kitchen bringing in rats." More then it already has, her tone could be mistaken.
 
Maahes: Down the hall the large mass of blankets could be mistaken for a bear given the sounds that escaped him. Wrapped deeply in the covers he had brought the bed to his wife since she wouldn't come! "Woman!" His voice was muffled under covers and he gave a quick grumble as he took seat within the chair around the table pulling his barefeet away from the cold floor. A mask of black covered his eyes as he peered through the hole in the blankets, "Why are you cleaning the kitchen?" Spoken in his brash grumble though it was a sincere question. (d
 
Shaden : At Agatha's harsh words to the child then Ealora,  Shadens gaze had lifted... her mouth opening to chastise the olderwoman on her sisters behalf then she stopped.. it was Ealora's house and she was a guest and should not interferr..but she would speak.. to Agatha on the morrow and try and set things right between them.. it was not good to have the two women under on roof at odds with one another..... she had pushed her food around her plate finding no joy in eating this evening.. to many things on her mind.. was that ship still in the Harbor.. how dare he.. her fork claked onto the plate loudly as Maahes appeared.. questioning his wife..  " Ohhh I'll clean it up Ealora.. you.. tend your husband "  she smiled at the bear wrapped blanketed man..  " He seems to be carrying your bed on his body.. perhaps he misses you in it "  she chuckled.. moving to scrape the remains.. well most of her dinner in the  scrap bucket.. and begin pouring the simmering water into the sink to wash the rest of the dishes from the nights dinner..(d)
 
Ealora: Placing a gentle kiss against the childs forehead, she curled the little girls fingers around the doll. "You keep this safe for me, hmm" With a smile, she set the child down and turned Celadon eyes to the old woman."Do not..and I will only repeat it once more. Do not speak to me like that again. I am lady of this household, not you Agatha. I have tried to be kind to you tonight though you have been wholly unkind to me. You do not know me Agatha, have not even tried. I may not agree with it but I accept it. But do not take it out on the child. You can not pick her up because of your back. I am willing to do so. I am not tainted as you believe I am. I had a son, I loved him. Loved him so much I did the hardest thing a mother has ever had to do. I gave him up to have a better life. I regret each day of my life. Eppie needs love, not scolding. Not harsh words. She needs tenderness, no wonder she is afraid of everyone. You say it takes time and yet when I try to hold her, give her love and understand you screetch at her. Take whatever emotions you have for me, out on me. Not her. You dislike me, go ahead and dislike me but for the right reasons, not the wrong ones." Dusting her hands on her clothing, she let out a sigh before turning an ear to the grumbling of her husband. A small smile itched at her lips at the sight of him carrying the blankets"Husband!" She replied with like gruffness if only to tease him. A sweep of her eyes swent to the kitchen then back to him. "Agatha back is aching. I told her to rest and that I would do it." She moved behind Shaden, if only to lean in and place a sistetly  kiss against her cheek. "Two pregnant women in the house..he is wearing the blankets as protection."She teased before moving towards her husband, wrapping her arms around the mass of blanket and man. "If you're cold, I'll go tend the pit in the living room. You can sit in your chair.."So sweetly offered to his ear.*
 
Agatha: Eppie's hand reached out for the old woman and she clung to her skirts once again, and Agatha curled her aged hands around the fingers of the child. "And you see there, Eppie Morrie that is how an uncivilized woman acts. You must promise me you'll never act so ugly." The child clung to the leg and held the doll even tighter. "You can act as you wish around this home, it is yours, I simply clean up after the mess you leave behind..in both kitchen and hearts."She motioned to the blanketed man who listened now free from his cocoon.
 
Maahes: "Enough!" He barked then standing and the covers falling free from his form. Agatha and Eppie both jumped at the boom of his voice, "You will NEVER talk to my wife like that or any.." Maahes stilled watching the old woman put her hand over her heart and gasp for air. "Jadda?" The Arabic word for Grandmother. Eppie turned wide eyes to the aged woman as she stumbled forward, and fell over dead. (d
 
Shaden: The sisterly kiss was taken and given back in affection as she put her hands to the task of washing the dishes, simply staying out of the brew ha ha that was Ealora's household.. it was not her place.. though if it had  been , would have been in order long before this night..  as Maahes barked she turned.. seeing the old woman grasp her chest.. and the little girl.. begin to cry and wail.. as the olde woman hit the floor..  for a moment she froze unable to comprehead what was happening as Maahes and Ealora rushed to the womans side... she pulled the child into her embrace kneeing to keep her both out of the way.. and comfort her.. oh dear god in heaven  she prayed silently..(d)
 
Ealora: Her hands curled into the covers around Maahes shoulder as her eyes seemed to burn into the old woman. Uncivilized! She had not even raised her voice once and she was being uncivilized. Her mouth opened to speak before Maahes was rising, covering the space of the room so Ealora had to move to stand beside him as he barked at the old woman. She started to feel a sense of pride at her husband sticking up for her but well...her eyes turned to the old woman as she clutched her chest and Ealora reached out, wide eyed as the woman fell over. For a moment her mouth just hung open as if this was some trick the woman was playing to gain sympathy from Maahes but she did not move and Ealora hurried to the woman's side and knelt down. Fingers pressed against the side of her neck to feel a heartbeat. There was none. Rolling the woman to her back, she leaned down to put her head against the old woman's chest. Nothing. Tilting the woman's head back, she plugged her nose and leaned down to blow into her mouth, once, twice, three times before she lifted up and put her palms on the woman's chest. Pumping downward to try to get the woman's heart to start up again. Silently she counted to ten before moving to blow in the woman's mouth again, three times again and then back to pumping on the woman's chest. For the span of a few minutes she alternated between the breaths and compressions until finally she sat back against her heels. Shaking her head at Maahes. Oh Gods, poor Maahes. Poor Eppie! She couldn't even bare to ask how the old woman wanted to be sent to the next world. Rising from the floor, she moved to lift Eppie up into her arms, cradling the child in her arms as she whispered soft hushed words to ear to calm her wails while moving out of the room to remove her from the scene. It was not that she did not trust Shaden to comfort the little girl. It was that not even Ealora could stand to see the old woman dead like that, much less let the little girl see it and yes, because she wanted to comfort her because her cries broke her heart.*
 
Maahes: The sound of the commotion cause the guards to rush against the halls to where the body rest against the floor. "Take her away, it's too late to send for the horsemen." His brash voice raspy and deep smoothed over the tension in the room. "High noon I will ride out to the village and see what is to be done. Shaden, would you go wake her granddaughters? Tell them of the passing?" Please was always forgotten but since he was not barking the order would that pass ? A hand came to close around the small of Ealora's back, and the Beast would wrap the covers around the pair as the child tried to calm in her arms. Take her to the bed. (d
 
Shaden: She relinquished her hold on the child to Ealora.. standing from her kneel where she had been comforting the little one.. her eyes washing over Maahes.. "I'm so sorry.. I know.. you loved her like a mother... " a gentle hand rested on his forearm for a comforting moment before she nodded softly  " Of course.. I shall go now... " she turned going to fetch her cloak, it was still lightly snowing outside and freezing cold.. before she left the temple heading to the small gathering of huts where the rememnats of the woman's family lived.. the path was darkened and lit by a cresent moon.. in the distance the howl of wolves caused shivers to race down her spine as she hurried along.. at last coming to the door of Agatha's home..  a soft knock and she was relived when after some time.. a candle shown  between the cracks of the boards.. a snap of twig or brush in the field behind her and she turned.. feeling watched.. that errie feeling making her pull the cloak closer.. silly woman.. she wasn't afraid of the dark.. and then the door opened.. and she would be the bearer of bad news...(d)
 
Apollo: The night had grown colder than Apollo's anticipation, granting the feeling which perhaps.. the legendary Ranger was losing his touch. Age peppered his hair and creases made up many volumes of tales across his brow. He was an old kook many said, a crazy old womanizing hermit that was rarely seen, save by his wife on occasion; "when he wasn't on one of his damned adventures." This particular eve brought the grand entrance of the haggardly built man of fortune. Let it be known, if it wasn't for bad luck, Apollo would have none at all. ``SHUT IT, YA' OL BEGGAR!`` A guard yelled, attempting to drag the man by his under arm. ``COULD YA' AT LEAST ATE LESS IN YER YOUTH!`` The other on his flank yelled. Apollo could be heard chuckling over the noise the pair made, attempting to haul him up and turn him in. They managed to get the Avarian boulder upon their shoulders with strained grunts, granting Apollo the beautiful sight of the crescent moon that led their way. He felt the snow as it lightly fell and intermingled with his gray hair.. He turned to the man on his right, smirking. ``We there yet?`` -- ``I SAID SHUT IT!`` He chuckled and remained quiet while being hauled to their Lord's home.(d)
 
Ealora: Her arm placed under the child's behind, her arm around her back moving in slow comforting circles. her eyes squeezed shut to push the image of Agatha on the floor...dead...from her mind. Eppie did not need her out of sorts right now. Swaying back and forth, she barely noticed the blanket being pushed around her shoulders, closing over both her and Eppie but she understood the unspoken words of her husband and moved towards their room to lay Eppie down. For a few moments she stayed, the girls hiccupping sobs quieting as Ealora in a soft whispered voice sang a song while stroking at her hair. What a night the little girl had had. Sobbing to sleep. Leaning down, she placed a gentle kiss against the girls cheek, made sure the doll was still in the little girls grasp, pulled the covers up and as quietly as she could manage, left the room. The guards had removed the ladies body from the floor, covered within a sheet so when Ealora returned she would not be greeted by the sight of the dead. The men hauling Apollo, still grumbling and groaning hauled the man to the front door. The knocker lifted and thudded thrice and Ealora turned, offering a paused glance at the door. Who the hell would be calling at this hour? Her hands moved down the front of the cream colored Egyptian cut dress, made thicker for the winter weather it still left one shoulder and arm bare. The bolt was pulled back and the latch pulled up before the door was swinging inward and she peeked around the corner to see who was there. "We need ta see the lord..the general.."Celadon eyes swept over the men and the...other man they carried. A slender brow raised upward in silent question but she gestured to the doorstep as she moved back to open the door for them. "Wipe off your boots!" Honeyed voice rose in a bit of annoyance. Agatha had just cleaned the floor and it wasn't because the old woman was gone and she now had to do it, but it was because it was one of the last things the woman had done and damn it she still wanted her house to look nice. "Maahes, there are some men here to see you."She called down the hall while keeping an eye on the men to make sure they DID indeed wipe their shoes on the rug outside before coming inside.*
 
Maahes: He was not one to morn death--never was. Death was but a door to heaven, and for one who took as many lives as he that part of his heart had hardened. The bitter chill carried a stench upon it, the smokey afterlife of the frozen woods, and the smell of far too much ale mixed with bitter old bones. What had the cats dragged in? The gruff mug of the man was captured under amber orbs ablaze with the familiarity. The cold was harsh on bones of old or young alike, but even more so on the well worn joints of the men-in-arms. From one General to the next. How many years had it been since the King had been called that other then in the secrecy of his lover's embrace. "You bring such a man in my home? Around my wife, and in the company of a beloved sister?" His eyes burned into those of the guards who now held lightly to the aged King's back without ever knowing his true title. A stern chiseled face hardened as he narrowed his eyes to the men, but it would before Apollo he would bend to be eye level with the prisoner. "Smelling like too many hours spent in a tavern and drawing on an old pipe.." With that he met the King's eyes and rose a dark brow, "Just as he always has, and probably always will." (d
 
Shaden: Inside the small hut, the family of Agatha mourned.. grieving loudly.. and with piteous emotions.. the young girls and the daughter in law.. distraught without the aged woman to guide them.. as they sat numbed by the fire Shaden assured them  it was quick.. and likely painless.. and spoke comfortingly of the long life lived.. and many lives touched by the outspoken Agatha..  She made them tea.. and talked as they reminisced.. assuring them Eppie was in good hands.. it would be in the wee early morning hours when at last they finally all slept.. and Shaden had tidied their small kitchen that she slipped out into the frosty predawn darkness.. the snow had stopped.. and now crunched frozen underfoot as she wound her way back toward the temple.. exhausted.. and wanting nothing more than a warm bed.. and blessed sleep..(d)
 
Apollo: The Guards acknowledged the Lady of the house by first tossing Apollo inside, who landed upon his stomach with an "oof!' They proceeded to wipe their boots then gather up the battered old man and pick him up once more. ``Beggin' the Lord 'n Lady's pardon.. but this man..`` The one on the right kicked him, Apollo chuckled..``This man, claimed to be a Knight...`` The other guard perked. ``No, it was a Guardsman.``--``Of course not a guardsman, I know it had to of been a Ranger. ``-- ``No.. a GENERAL.`` The guards let Apollo fall back to the ground, the one on the right shoving the one on the left. ``A general? Please. He was a Bard![/b]`` The other one shoved back. ``An OVERLORD, ya' Wankeh!`` Apollo mumbled: ``What a soft floor you have...`` The pair of guards had each other by their collars ready to swing. In unison, they yelled. ``NO HE IS A KING!``(d)
 
Ealora: "Shut up!"She let out a growl and put a hand to her temple as the two men began to argue over who the man has said he was. Rubbing for a moment she let out a sigh. "I don't care who he said he was..and if he throws up on my floor, the TWO of you will be cleaning it up and then straightening the rest of my house for my annoyance."She tossed a glare at both of them before her eyes swung down to Apollo admiring her floor as they shouted in unison about him saying he was a King. A slender brow rose in slight amusement before her head turned to find Maahes there inspecting the man. Ah, he knew him, she could tell by the blazed look in his eye. Such a man around his wife and beloved sister? Now she was curious, like the hellcat she was. Arms folded over her chest. Just where was this going? This was going to be interesting..*
 
Wolves: The snow that crunched under her feet seem to echo down the valley and behind her a trail was left with the same sound. Should she still it would be heard, should she run it would still be heard..only faster. The woods surrounding the valley were dark, lit only by the beams of the moon pressing through the pines, one could easily be lost should they not know their way.

Maahes: While the men atop argued over the names of the King Maahes took to one knee just before the man. "The floors are nothing compared to the beds. You should see..King sized." An empty hand palm up was offered to the man, and his eyes rose to find that of his wife. "Throw what was left of dinner over the coals, and set it out." Please would be forgotten as he would help Apollo up should he take what was offered. "Death washed over you..out on Sport again?" The  rich undertones of his voice filled the halls, but carried a chuckle of his own as the men silenced and stood ghostly still. Had they made a mistake? "M'lord do you know this man?" "No." "Did we do wrong by taking him in?" "No, you will do right every time, but next time at least try to make me look good." Dark eyes passed over the men with little amusement and they would know better then to question his motives. "Come on, Old man warm your bones." (d
 
Shaden: She meandered along lost in thought for the trek back to the Temple.. although she could see it in the distance.. it's shadow against a indigo sky.. it seemed so far away.. exhaustion, pregnancy and the cold seemed to play havoc on her senses... as she pulled the cloak about her tightly, she felt that niggling sensation at the back of her neck that had assailed her before.. at Agatha's home.. stopping she listened and looked about..  not hearing anything to begin with.. then the crunch of frozen snow underfoot.... but she was not moving..  " Is someone there..?"  she called out.. twice.. before moving..  quickly toward the temple.. now she was aware.. and the sounds seemed to multiply increasing as if gaining on her.. to which she bolted.. running toward the nearest building she could find .. the stables.. in thru the smaller side door.. and slamming it behind her bolting it with the drop of the wooden latch.. she could hear.. something outside.. pacing the outlines of the stables.. looking about she quickly decided to hide.. but where.. hayloft..  the mound of newly stacked hay on the stable floor.. on in a stable with the horses.. her mind made up she dissapeared into her hiding place.. hearth thudding loudly.. silent prayers sent up.. rapidly to heaven..(d)
 
Apollo: Apollo's hand slapped into Maahes, and He rose slowly, extending to his full height which had the guards stepping back. ``No wonder he was so bloomin' heavy!`` With his cowl back, Apollo used his hands, now freed from the General's, to push back the good length of graying red and stroke the main of a beard that hung from his face. He was broad and heavy, unarmed and dressed simple enough. Handsome..no, damnably handsome, with a smirk that carried with it a long past. ``King size you say? What a treat? What shall they invent next?!`` He said, grandly impressed. He dusted himself off and was just about to say something when he caught sight of Maahes wife. He stopped dead in his movements, and stared. He cleared his throat and straightened the awful looking rags as if to make himself presentable. ``How you doin'?`` He said, chiefly impressed with the saintly stance he took. ``Name's Apollo, adventurer-- and damned good looking rogue, if I do say so myself.`` He fancied a small broken piece of a mirror from his pocket and looked at himself. ``..and I do..`` His head jerked toward Maahes. ``Food. What a real treat! ..a real treat.`` He turned back toward the guards and brought his hands out in front of him.. as if he was carefully walking. With two fingers he claimed his walking stick back. ``Mine.`` And he whacked them with it. ``Go on.. ! Get!`` When they had left, he turned about.. ``Food. Right-o. Carry on then!``(d)
 
Ealora: Celadon eyes swiveled between the four men in the hallway. As much as it was amusing, it was also grated on her nerves. Blame it on being pregnant, if looks could kill, the men would drop dead right there. A slender brow rose up in wonderment as he stared at her then went to setting his rags straight. "Oh good, now that your up, if you throw up on my floor, you'll be cleaning it up. Apollo was it? I'm sure the pleasure is all yours and when your done making out with yourself in that mirror it'll of been one hell of an adventure, one sided of course." She slammed her lips shut to turn a look to Maahes. Did he just order her to go get food? There had not been a please there. Again that slender brow rose upward in question. No matter, her stomach was starting to upset and she had tea Avery had given her to help with that. She brushed by Apollo and Maahes to shut the door mumbling about damnable men letting in the winter to freeze them all before she was brushing by them again to move down the hall into the kitchen. She paused, where the hell was Shaden? Her lips pulled into a frown. A few more minutes and she'd call Sam and Taylor to go look for her sister. What where crewmates stranded on land for anyways. Water was put on to boil as she moved to gather the remains of dinner onto a plate for the old man who had been dumped on their doorstep. King, ha!*
 
Maahes: Woman..He dared her to protest though of course was the game they played all too well. One that had wedding bands around their hands, this game between lovers. Whose chasing who..or who starts the fight tonight. His hand came to clasp the shoulder of the aged King before him as they walked, ventured into the sitting room where the fire pit was a blaze and the leather bound seats seemed all too welcoming. "A long way from home you are." He spoke in his brash deep voice as he took his seat in the oversized winged chair that seemed to fit him, and across from him his eyes would fall upon the only other man he knew that perhaps would fit inside such a large chair. "Hunting? Or Running?" Dark eyes dared not to leave the Jedi Master across from him, nor show any sign of jest. This pair as well always played a game, one where lives balanced on the edge of swords yet always seemed to come out on top. Apollo had his reasons for being here, for this he was sure. It had been how long since they last spoke? When the food was brought out and placed before the man Maahes would turn his gaze to Ealora and give her a half smile but the words fell from his mouth, "Thank you."
 
The Stable Boy Outside: "M'lady..what may I ask are you doing?" The stable boy looked puzzled as the woman cried out into the night in her prayers and instantly stood. "Are you lost? Is there something after you?" The door would be swung open to reveal nothing but the open air and crisp winter night. Had Shaden dreamed it? (d

Shaden: She was cowered between the body of a great draft horse and his stable side.. a dangerous place for a lady to be.. when the door swung open.. a small gasp escaped her.. as she moved to place herself between the stable boy and the threat.. yet nothing met her gaze.. just empty swirling chilled air..  " It must have been an animal.. "  she  shivered.. gathering her courage..  " it's late.." an apology offered  " Forgive me for waking you.. "  the cloak was gathered about her once more.. tightly against the chill.. as she stepped outside the stables the boy closing the door with a perplexed look on his face.. he would never understand the people from the big house.. what man lets his woman out at this time of night alone.. it never dawned on the youth she was a woman without a man... an independent woman was a rare thing indeed.. The Moon slipped from behind a cloud casting the snow in bright relief.. no she had not been dreaming... there all around the edge of the stable buildings side.. footprints.. tracks.. but of what.. they were to many and jumbled to be sure... one last look  over her shoulder and she darted to the main house..inside the kitchen door and  then to the window gazing out into the tree line.. what shadows moved there..?(d)
 
Apollo: ``Do I look like a man who could be running in weather like ..that?``  He frowned, clearly using his age as some sort of facade. He adjusted himself into the seat that was across from a General. A General he still remembered promoting almost a decade ago. He ran a hand through his hair and locked his gaze with Maahes. ``I actually came to find you, my lord.`` He said with some hint of reverence in his voice. ``Been meanin' to apologize for what happened all those years ago. About Tommy, you.. everyone. But you seem to be finding life well enough I see; beautiful wife, house, land, title.. life. `` He smiled, and for the first time since Maahes had seen him, his age shown within that smile. ``I know it probably don't mean much, but given the day and age.. it is all I have to offer from the past.`` A shaky hand found the arm of the chair and he readjusted so the heat of the fire found his legs and warmed them up. His walking stick was laid across his lap.(d)
 
Ealora: A slice of prime rib smothered in a brown wine gravy, red boiled potatoes with rosemary and a basket of sliced bread was brought out the man, hips swaying seemed to whisper of some secret profession of a dancer. Setting the plate and basket in front of him, her body dipped low, the fabric of her dress moving, nearly revealing the nude form beneath it, all most but not quite. As she lifted up, she turned a smile to Maahes. His smile that seemed to speak of adoration and love but also mischief later. Was she angry at him? Was there going to be a fight? Of course not. Turning upon her heels, she moved across to Maahes, pausing to lean down and place a kiss against his forehead. "Your Welcome" Honeyed voice purred against his forehead. See that's all she wanted and hips swayed as she left the room to go tend her tea. With rag in hand, she swung the pot away from the fires just as the door opened with Shaden flying in like a fury. Both brows went up as eyes widened in her sisters direction. "In all that is holy.."She stopped as Shaden slammed the door shut and began to look out the back window. "Shaden, I was worried about you! Where the hell have you been and what the hell are you doing?" She set the pot of water on the counter top and moved to her sisters side. Grasping her shoulders in her hands. "You're freezing, get over here and let me get you some tea before you get sick, you can't be getting sick while pregnant!"*
 
Maahes: "I grew tired of watching that city burn. Just as we all have. There is no need to apologize." He rose his hand to motion away with his hands, let this pass between them. "All that matters now is that the score is settled." Watching to make sure his wife left the room before he continued his eyes passed back to the man across from him. "What happens now? I catch the sailors speaking of the loss at home, and I wait. When do we rise again?" Pressing forward on his knees he folded his hands together. "And yes..yes you are the kind of man who would be running in the woods like this..do not think I am the fool Apollo. You are the only person I know who would kill a man at his own funeral." (d
 
Shaden: She  jumped as Ealora cursed behind her  " really Ealora is all that cursing necessary.. have you not enough drama in your household tonight?"  she shivered moving away from the window near the stove and held out her hands for warmth " I was at Agatha's house with her daughter in law and grandchildren..  they are finally resting... and yes it's cold outside "  she didn't mention the footprints.. or her scare.. would make her look like some ninny who cired wolf!  plus there was enough problems in Ealora's household without a hysterical tired pregnant sister ranting about being chased thru the snow  "I'm to tired for tea.. perhaps I should just go to bed have you seen Nic tonight?" (d)
 
Apollo: ``..i am afraid there won't be any rising up, as you put it..`` He replied with a feeble voice. He watched Maahes wife come in and set his plate down in front of him, then sashay away. Verra nice. He began to cut into his meal. `` I am far too old for that sort of thing anymore. War, conspiracies. Heh. It was all a waste for me, and now I have come to find my son who has been missing for nearly a year. I had heard a rumor he was on a ship from Skye. Shadow Storm, I think it was called..`` He shrugged. ``Saul left Avaria when I told him my intention on not fighting the Steward. He was furious, and left to go and find followers. I am afraid he will get himself killed, and that's not what I want.``(d)
 
Ealora: "No one ever said I had a civil tongue"She teased with a half hearted grin though it slid from her lips, pulling into a frown again as she moved to Shaden side, grasping her arms and rubbing to warm her. "Shaden are you all right?" There was no fooling her sister! duh! Her frown tugged even tighter as she hugged her sister from behind, to help warm and calm her. She looked like death had been chasing her. "He's in his room s'far as I know.."She released her sister. If she was tired then Ealora wasn't going to keep her. Moving to the cider warming in the stove, she collected two cups and poured each a generous amount before letting out a sigh"Go sleep, I have to go play the good wife"A slight grin curled her lips as she rolled those celadon eyes of hers and headed back out to the men, each was handed a cup to each man. She stopped and turned from leaving. The Shadow Storm? Why were they talking of her ship?*
 
Maahes: "Shadow Storm is the ship of my wife. I'll ask for the logs of the passengers. Are you sure it was the right one? Her ship was a ship like Percivals..pirate." Can you believe that this man married a pirate? "He is too smart to go by his real name, for that I am certain." Maahes brought a hand to scratch his beard in thought. "What was the name of that fool whose neck I still dream of cutting..Lochlan. I'll have her look for that name." Sitting back in his chair as he continued. "You should speak with Campbell. He sees to all the squires on the Isle. He would know your boy.." A smile curled back his lips, "Probably the tallest one there."  There was much he would wish to speak to Apollo about, but feared for his wife hearing what was going on. (d

Shaden: " i'm fine .. fine " she shrugged off Ealoras attention.. " just tired.. I guess  long day.. long week.. long months " she shook her head soflty.. copper curls glistening in the dim light  " I'm sorry about Agatha..  I know it's a loss for Maahes... and the timing was horrible " there it was that tender heart.. who says she could not love.. who says she was cold.. and unfeeling... the thoughts wrangled about in her mind.. for a moment before a look of annoyance creased her brow.. who was he to judge her.. and why did his voice.. plauge her mind so.. love herself indeed.. she didn't need fixing she was fine.. more than fine.. why would she need his help?  she grumbled and headed off to her bedchambers.. men!(d)
 
Apollo: ``I am not certain he would have enlisted himself to fight, but it is a course he could have taken.`` He said, shoveling the food into his mouth and chewing. ``Any help would be much appreciated. I just want my son.`` He admitted, taking a moment to look at his food before swallowing and continuing to eat. It was a sore topic.(d)
 
Ealora: To late. Arms crossed over her chest as her gaze went from Apollo to Maahes. Waiting for the next one to talk and say what was going on. She didn't understand it but where her ship was concerned, she was the pirate queen, captain. Period. "What does your son have to do with my ship?" Celadon eyes swiveled from Maahes to Apollo and back again. This was going to make her dizzy if she was not careful.*
 
Maahes: "We'll find him. Come to the barracks in the morning and we'll get a search out. I'll put my best men on it. I have..." He paused debating on continuing but thought it would be worth a shot. "I have heard a rumor that there is one boy who has been undefeated in every order. I think they meant to have him compete in England in the joust, and Saul did love it when Lochlan flashed his lance." Dark amber orbs flashed to Ealora, and then settled back upon Apollo. He motioned Ealora on as he continued, "You will stay here for the night. Tomorrow we will ride into town and check upon the list?" As his wife spoke..very much out of place he flashed her an angry look. "Nothing of importance  Ealora." With that Maahes would stand his motives for his bed clear behind a worn face. "Would you like anything else? My King?" He would take the empty plate and empty to glass to refill if he wished, but he as well knew old habits
 
Nic: The Blind Knight was actually within the woman's rooms. Moving about the room as if he were looking for something missing or for something to pop out and go BOO. In truth, he was blind and trying to memorize the room should any problems arise in the middle of the night. He had memorized his, now hers and the rest of the house later. As the door swung open, his head turned to catch the sound of it and instantly he caught the scent of her and grinned. "Busy woman, napping all afternoon, gone all night."*
 
Shaden: She stopped seeing him in her room.. then closed the door.. it was obvious she was a bit peeved over something just by the sound of her heels as she walked.. dropping her cloak over the back of a chair..pulling off gloves, stuffing them in the inner pocket.. " Agatha died tonight I was with her family..  I just got back "  the sound of both annoyance and exhaustion plauging her usual cheerful voice..  " Your up late why are you not sleeping.. does you head ache again " now concerned flowed into her voice as she crossed to him...  " you do to much to soon.. how will you ever heal ?"(d)
 
Nic: His smile dropped at the sound of her voice. His head tilted to catch the sounds of her movements and when she passed by he reached out and clasped her tight by the shoulders, drawing her towards him. He was getting good at this. "I'm so sorry Shaden.." Of anyone that knew her, the old knight knew she was not some coldhearted witch. She cared about people and the old womans death had probably hurt her more then she was willing to show. "I haven't been to bed yet. Been memorizing the rooms and now yours in case there is trouble."His arms encircled her waist, drawing her into his body. "I have not had head aches in about a week Shaden. My eyes will heal whether I am resting or doing my duty."Though he did grin down at her then. Considerate of others while troubled herself. He could not help but grin at her concern.*


Apollo: ``No thank you, but i would like to ride out. Yes..`` He mumbled and looked away for a long moment. He thought of Saul, his face and how he'd last seen it almost a year ago. He shook his head. ``And I will accept your invitation..````And please, do not call me king any longer..Just Apollo.`` He shown a weak smile to Ealora. ``I am sure your husband can fill you in, my lady..``(d)
 
Shaden: She was as taut as a pulledhunters bow string.. every muscle in her seemed ready to balk.. run.. as if on aleart.. and when he grasp her.. it was as if he grasp a statue for a moment.. it only took a moment  though and she relaxed into the comfort of his arms..  " I worry for you.. I still feel that you were hurt on my account.. I cannot help it "   she took a deep breath  and pressed her forehead against his chest.. " I'm just so tired... " a soft shiver and then she pulled away...  heading for the small fireplace to stoke the fire.. up.. it was so cold..(d)
 
Ealora: Her head tilted, did he just give her an angry glare for inquiring about her ship and the mans son? She bit the inside of her cheek but the return look spoke of trouble later. Her lips pressed tightly together, she turned her head to Apollo and offered the sweetest smile she could muster. "Please, call me Ealora." It was the first time she had met the man, twice had been bluntly honest to the point of being rude and now all sweet? "Oh I'm sure its to much for a simple minded woman as myself. If you'll excuse me, I'll go do my wifely and womanly duties and prepare a room for you." She gave a nod of her head and hips swayed as she marched from the room.*
 
Maahes: "She's something huh?" He chuckled deeply watching his wife storm out, and gave Apollo his hand upon the man's shoulder. "Rest well." With a shake of his head he moved to follow that little hell cat and to bed himself. (d
 
Nic: His hands found the small of his back, rubbing in smile gentle circles as his head dipped to rest against her own as she sank against him. His hands loosened as she pulled away and he listened as she stoked the fire. Reaching a hand out to make sure he was not hitting anything, he moved to find her, grasping her arm to pull her up. Brushing her knuckles against his lips before he covered it with the other and stepped backward. Yes he was memorizing the room well for he lead her straight to the bed. Clasping her within his arms, he wiggled back onto the bed and laid down, pulling her with him. "Sleep now.."A softly uttered command as he stroked the hair away from her face, as if he could see it but somehow he knew it was casting over her eyes before his hand moved down to her backside, stroking lightly for a moment or two before he was pulled her back against him, spooning her backside.*