CHAPTER EIGHT
Kayla had fallen into a comfortable routine over the next days and weeks. Once she had fully recovered, she rose at dawn, joined Teagan for breakfast and then would ride into the village where she would prepare the salves, potions and ointments needed for the day. At dusk, she would ride back to the castle, bathe and then join Teagan for supper. They would each share the events of the day, then spend some time in front of the fire in his study before going to bed. Teagan always escorted Kayla to her room, kissing her hand and leaving Kayla at the door which always made her feel conflicted. A part of her was relieved he didn't want more, but another part of her, a growing part of her, wished he did. One evening, before Teagan could say good-night, she leaned in and kissed his cheek. When she pulled back, she thought she saw him blush. She quickly shut the door before Teagan could say or do anything. The next day, Teagan acted as if nothing had happened, but when he walked her to her room, he placed a kiss on her cheek, smiled at her and walked away. She tried not to giggle when he kissed her, but his beard tickled her skin. It was a new sensation, but one that was not unpleasant. She quickly became accustomed to his kiss and found it was something she happily looked forward to at the end of the day. And slowly, the thoughts of leaving became less and less.
After her first few days being the village's healer, the amount of people requiring her services dwindled to a more manageable number for very commonplace ailments. In speaking with one mother of five children, Kayla learned there were homes scattered around the outskirts of Redcliffe and sometimes these people found it difficult to travel to the village. She spoke of this to Teagan and told him that she would begin making rounds to these homes, visiting the people to providing her services to them. If they could not come to her, she would go to them. At first, Teagan was leery about Kayla venturing out alone. She laughed and reminded him that she was a Grey Warden and was very capable of handling herself. Teagan smiled and nodded. Hearing the confidence in her voice, her joyous laughter, that was the Kayla he knew; that was the woman who had entered his life years ago. So twice a week, Kayla would saddle her horse, fill her pack with remedies and travel to the outskirts of Redcliffe. She was welcomed wherever she went. The people were happy to see her, as there were days when she was the only contact beyond their front door. Some days, she had people to treat. Other days, they just wanted to talk and enjoy her company. She was becoming as much beloved by the people as their Arl.
Kayla found that she enjoyed her role in Redcliffe very much; moreso than being at Court or even being a Grey Warden. For once, being a mage was an asset and not a liability. Teagan was also starting to rely on her talents more and more. It started sporadically at first. Teagan had cautiously asked for her advice on a village matter. Kayla was surprised, but happily gave her opinion. Teagan listened to her thoughtfully, then a few days later implemented her idea. Days would pass and Teagan would again ask for her thoughts and ideas on either village or castle management. Soon, they began discussing everything from the running of the castle to the economy of the village and a new routine began. Mornings would begin with the discussion of the day's upcoming activities, then Kayla and Teagan would go their separate ways and come back together at supper to talk about daily events. They would then retire to his study where they would discuss the management of Redcliffe. Teagan appreciated Kayla's intellect and view on things. Her foray into the outskirts of the village helped him a great deal, as she would bring back the thoughts, opinions and problems of his people. She had become his eyes and ears beyond the village proper.
Through these discussions, Kayla learned more and more about Teagan; how brilliant his mind was, how caring he was for his people, how steadfast and opinionated he could be. She enjoyed their sparring over ideas when they had differing opinions, but by the end of the conversation they had always come to a mutual agreement that benefitted all. After his dealings with her, Kayla began to observe Teagan more with his staff and the villagers. He was a hands-on nobleman and never shied away from hard work. When homes needed repair or fields needed tending and they were short-handed, she found him working side by side with his people, not afraid to get his hands dirty. And when the occasional bandits attacked people on the road, Teagan, much to Kayla's chagrin, would put on his armor and join his knights to route the perpetrators. He was the first one to rise and the last one to bed. She had much admiration and respect for him and, as she watched him working with his men, appreciated the handsome and dashing figure he cut. He was quick with a smile or a laugh and saw the positive in everything. And, though she would never admit it out loud, she was beginning to fall for the Arl of Redcliffe.
Five months had passed since Kayla arrived at Redcliffe. Today, she and Ser Perth were to travel to Lothering to replenish supplies. She especially needed more crafting materials and reagents to make her popular healing remedies. She rose and prepared for her journey. As usual, fresh flowers adorned her vanity. Teagan made sure she always had fresh flowers in her room. Some mornings, there was a little gift from him; a locket, a single flower, a note. When she would mention something she wanted or missed, he worked very hard to obtain it for her. At times, the gift was nothing more than lyrium dust for her lyrium potions. Other times, the present was more personal. Whatever the gift it always made Kayla feel warm inside and brought a smile to her lips.
Kayla pulled out one of her mages' robes for the journey. She had begun wearing dresses rather than her robes, but felt that the robe would be more appropriate for the task at hand. She did, however, continue to wear the silver heart locket Teagan had given her under her robe. Kayla had a habit of playing with the locket whenever she was deep in thought. But she would need both hands on the reins for the trip. The locket was safest out of sight.
Kayla joined Teagan for breakfast. He was unusually silent this morning, but she knew why. He always grew pensive when she traveled. No matter how many times she reminded him of her accomplishments and skill in battle, he always worried about her safety. Kayla assured Teagan she could handle herself, but for this journey she had agreed to take Ser Perth with her. It made Teagan feel better, but not by much.
Once they finished breakfast, Teagan escorted Kayla to Ser Perth and her waiting horse. They stood at the bottom of the staircase in the courtyard, saying their good-byes.
"Do not worry so," she told Teagan. "Two days' travel, one day there, two days' on the return. I shall be back in no time."
"The castle won't be the same without you here."
Kayla smiled. "I'm sure you will accomplish so much more now that I will be out of your hair for five days."
"I doubt I shall be able to concentrate on anything in your absence," he replied. "Take care and travel safely. Hurry back to me…ah us," he said, a blush creeping into his cheeks.
"I shall," she promised.
Teagan gazed into her blue eyes. He leaned in, then caught himself and kissed her on the cheek. Kayla looked at him in surprise. He had never made such a public display of affection before. She smiled and caressed his cheek, then climbed into the saddle. Teagan turned to Ser Perth.
"Watch over her, Ser Perth and have a safe journey."
"I shall, My Lord," Ser Perth replied.
Teagan smiled, then watched them both ride out the castle gates towards Lothering.
The journey was uneventful and two days later, Kayla and Ser Perth arrived in Lothering. They had made the purchases for the village and set-up the delivery arrangements for most of the order. Those purchases of a smaller or more personal nature would be carried back with them. They had run into Ser Bryant and he looked surprised at seeing Kayla again. She laughed and told him she had gotten no farther than Redcliffe, the Arl's hospitality being so welcoming that she did not wish to leave. He smiled, wished them both well and asked for Kayla to send his warmest regards to the Arl. She promised to do so, then she and Ser Perth finished their duties. Once their tasks were complete, they each took a room at Dante's Refuge and looked forward to a good night's sleep.
They both rose fairly early in the morning, but the tavern was bustling when they went down to the main floor. There appeared to be a celebration among the people. Kayla and Ser Perth approached the barkeep and saw Ser Bryant conversing with him. Kayla turned towards him.
"What is the occasion that everyone is celebrating?" she asked, leaning in close so she could be heard above the noise.
"We have received wonderful news from Denerim," Ser Bryant began. "The Queen is pregnant. There will be a new heir to the throne and the line of Calenhad shall continue."
Kayla stared at Ser Bryant. She made no reaction, but all color had drained from her face. Knowing that she should respond, Kayla spoke. "That is…wonderful…news…just…wonderful…" Her voice trailed off. Ser Bryant looked at Ser Perth, then back at Kayla.
"Kayla, are you…" Ser Bryant began, but Kayla did not hear him. There was a buzzing in her ears and the room began to spin.
"I need to check on the horses and get some fresh air. Forgive me," she said softly and like a woman in a dream walked towards the door and outside.
She made her way to the stables and her own horse and began stroking its neck. Tears began streaming down her cheeks. Anora is pregnant. That means that Alistair…she couldn't bear to think what it all meant. Kayla leaned her head against her horse and wept. She was so absorbed in her own thoughts and misery that she did not hear Ser Perth behind her.
"Kayla," he said softly, placing a strong hand on her shoulder.
At his voice and touch, Kayla straightened, wiping the tears from her face.
"He is not worth your tears," Ser Perth told her gently.
"Who?" she asked.
Ser Perth paused. "The King," he finally responded.
Kayla chuckled. "These are tears of joy not…oh what's the use of lying. Everyone knows I was the King's Mage…the King's whore," she said bitterly.
"No one I know ever thought that about you," he assured her.
"Then they are in the minority," she responded. "I have been a fool. I thought…I thought he loved me," she said softly.
"I'm sure he did, in his own way."
"I'm not so certain of that anymore."
"I cannot speak for the King or his feelings for you, but I know that love shouldn't be this painful. Besides, why waste your energy on him when there is someone closer to you who cares for you."
"Who is that?" she asked flatly.
"The Arl cares for you deeply, even loves you I would dare say."
"And how do you know this? Has he told you?" she asked a bit flippantly.
"I've seen the way he looks at you. Only a blind man couldn't see the love he has for you." Ser Perth was silent for a moment, then came to a decision. "This might be overstepping my bounds, but the Arl has been a different man since you arrived. We have all noticed it. Before you came, there was this air of melancholy surrounding him. He always seemed a bit…sad. He never betrayed it in his words or actions, but we would catch him staring off into space and see the sadness in his eyes. All of that has disappeared since you came to the castle. These last five months have been the happiest I have ever seen him. The Arl loves you Kayla; I'd bet my life on it."
Kayla stood there, pondering over Ser Perth's words. She knew he was right. Kayla saw it in Teagan's eyes, too, when he thought she wasn't looking. But she had been afraid to acknowledge it. She wanted to be her own woman again; confident and capable. But isn't that exactly who she had become? With Teagan's support, she had found the woman she was before the Blight ended. She had regained the power and confidence in herself and her abilities. She did not wish to be a man's possession again and that fear was holding her back from committing to another relationship. But Teagan never saw her that way; never treated her that way. He treated her as an equal, a partner. Why had she decided to stay in Redcliffe for so long? Why did she abandon her idea of leaving Ferelden and striking out on her own? There was only one reason for her to stay; only one person that could make her stay; only one man whom she wanted to stay for and that realization filled her heart and made her smile.
"Come, Ser Perth," Kayla began as she turned to face the knight, "I have this longing to see Redcliffe…and Teagan."
Ser Perth smiled at her and bowed, "Of course My Lady."
"I should speak with Ser Bryant. I fear my abrupt exit has him bewildered."
"That is a good idea," Ser Perth responded.
Kayla walked towards the door of the tavern. Ser Bryant was outside pacing, looking pained. When he saw Kayla moving towards him, he went to her.
"Please forgive me, Kayla. I did not mean to upset you with such tidings," Ser Bryant began.
She placed a comforting hand on the Templar's arm. "Do not worry, Ser Bryant. I am grateful for the news. With it, you have set me free," she responded with a smile. "We must return to Redcliffe, but I will see you on our next trip to Lothering. Then it is I who shall buy you dinner."
"I look forward to it," he replied, bowing. "A safe trip to you both. May the Maker watch over you."
"And you, Ser Bryant and…thank you."
Ser Perth had brought her horse. She filled its packs with her purchases, climbed into the saddle and they both rode towards the rebuilt Imperial Highway onto Redcliffe.
The return trip had been uneventful. Kayla felt this new sense of urgency in returning to Redcliffe. Her newfound feelings for Teagan filled her with happiness. She had believed Ser Perth's words, but was still nervous at how to broach the subject with Teagan. After all, there was the possibility that they were both wrong about Teagan and his feelings for her.
They were about one mile outside of Redcliffe when a tingling sensation ran through Kayla's body; a sensation she hadn't felt in a while, but one that she distinctly recognized.
"Darkspawn," she told Ser Perth.
"What? Where?"
"A small horde about a quarter mile that way," she said, pointing north.
"Are you sure? I hear nothing."
Kayla smiled. "Positive. I need you to ride to the castle, gather your knights and any available men and return to me. I can hold them off, but I can't defeat them alone. I will need your reinforcements." Her tone had taken on one in command.
"I can't leave you here alone," Ser Perth began.
"You can and you must. I am a Grey Warden and a mage. I shall be able to battle them on my own better than you, but I will need assistance to defeat them."
"If I leave you, the Arl…" he began to protest.
"We don't have time to argue, Ser Perth, they are coming." The man was not leaving. "Do I need to pull rank on you?" she asked icily.
"No, My Lady," Ser Perth replied.
"Then ride quickly and hurry back. I will be waiting for you." She then turned her horse towards the darkspawn horde and rode to meet them.
Ser Perth watched her ride away, then put his horse into a run. He needed to rally his men quickly and return to Kayla's side. Her life and that of Redcliffe may depend upon it.
