Raieya waited impatiently in her chambers for Gwaine to return. She had seen the knights returning from Stowell while she was out walking along the castle walls. The shouts she heard told her there were many wounded. She thought it best to stay out of the way and wait for Gwaine to return to her. If something was wrong with him, she knew she could trust Merlin to let her know.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the door creaked open and Gwaine stepped inside.
"Gwaine," she breathed, standing to greet him.
He closed the distance between them and met her lips in a kiss. When they broke apart Raieya looked into his eyes, seeing that he looked tired.
"What happened?" she asked.
"We lost the garrison," he replied. "Morgana used sorcery against us. Leon called the retreat. She would've slaughtered us all."
"Then I'm glad you're safe," said Raieya, caressing his cheek. "We can win back the garrison another time."
Gwaine nodded. "She took the whole town, every last person killed, save one."
Raieya's eyes widened. "Where is he?"
"She," Gwaine corrected. "She's here. I saved her. Actually, I know her."
"You know her?"
Gwaine nodded. "Eira. She was a barmaid in Stowell. Before you came to Camelot I was sent there for a couple weeks to take inventory of our supplies and head a restocking mission."
"Of course you knew the barmaid," Raieya laughed. "How is she?"
"Shaken," said Gwaine. "Upset. Everything she's known is gone. Her leg was cut but nothing serious. I've just returned from making sure she was situated comfortably in one of the guest chambers."
"Good," she nodded. "You look weary. Do you get to rest now?"
"Arthur has called a meeting," answered Gwaine. "Actually I must leave you in a minute for it. Merlin stopped me on my way here and asked me for a favor also."
"What does he need?"
"He asked me to accompany him to the Valley of the Fallen Kings," said Gwaine. "He wants to leave tomorrow at first light."
"Just be careful," Raieya warned. "It seems like nothing good ever happens there."
"Don't worry," said Gwaine. "We will."
Raieya pulled him into another kiss.
"I suppose I shouldn't keep you any longer then."
Gwaine smiled. "Don't need Arthur getting uptight. I promised Eira I'd check on her after the meeting but I'll see you later."
He kissed her once more before heading back out the door.