Night soon became day and back at the castle, Diana was starting losing her patience. This was not supposed to happen to her. Slaves didn't run away from her care. She felt that Marika and Moira had been treated especially well so this was a slap to the face for Diana to have them running away. She vowed to herself that they would be found and dealt with accordingly.
She stopped pacing in front of the window and weighed her options again. If she sent a guard, trouble would surely ensue. If she sent another slave, it was possible that no one would return. Diana just hoped Longinus had a better idea. She didn't want to regret trusting him with finding her two runaway slaves.
In the Sanctuary, the people gathered as Conor had requested. They were all murmuring and whispering amongst themselves, looking around. By now everyone knew about the guests that had stayed with them overnight. On Conor's right stood his friends with Keara standing right beside him and Fergus beside her. Marika and Moira stood on his left, Moira closest to Conor. Everyone there was all anxious to find out Conor's decision.
"I've given this a lot of thought and I've made a decision," Conor announced. "Moira and Marika do not post a threat to us and they could use our help. I've decided to allow them to stay. If my decision upsets anyone, you're welcome to take it up with me at any time."
The people whispered amongst themselves as they left. Some looked relieved with Conor's decision. Others seemed to disagree but they weren't going to question Conor's decision unless it came down to something bad happening to them all. Moira turned to thank Conor only to find that he had left as well. She, however, found Tully still standing there.
He walked over and put his arm around Marika, trying not to squeeze too tightly so he wouldn't hurt her. "I think Conor made the right decision," Tully stated.
"Yes, I agree, big brother," replied Marika.
Moira only slightly shook her head.
"Welcome to your new home then," announced Tully.
"Thank you, Tully. Well, Marika, I guess we're finally home," Moira said, grinning. She was happy to know that they had a place to call home, a place where they would be safe.
Catlin watched from across the way and scowled. Fergus walked up behind her. "I still don't believe them. Where's Conor? I need to talk to him," Catlin said.
"He's our leader and he's made his decision. Y'should leave him be," Fergus said.
Catlin glared at him and walked out.
Fergus rolled his eyes and walked over to the trio. They were still just standing around and talking amongst themselves. "Just came over to welcome you," he said.
"Thank you. It's so wonderful here. Everyone's just been so nice to us. And to have finally found my brother ..." Marika started. Moira discreetly kicked her in the shin. Marika winced slightly at that but smiled nonetheless.
Fergus looked at the two and wondered if Catlin might have something after all.