Disclaimer: I am poor and own nothing. And because I'm poor, this is my only source of entertainment, so please do not sue.
Authors Note: This chapter is dedicated to Cardeia for a wonderful story in the now completed 'Cerys at Knight' and to all those victims suffering at the hands of hurricane Katrina.
A couple of other things. One, there are 3 reasons for the delay in update. 1) Nursing school just went back so little time. 2) The dreaded writers block. 3) I've been working on my novel also, so sorry. Also I think we all need to take the time to send our thoughts and prayers (to whomever that may be) to the people suffering at the devastating affects and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
HyperSquishy – I don't understand those who don't love the fluff. I adore the fluff. Thanks for reviewing.
LANCELOTTRISTANBABY – Yes Tristan and fatherhood should be a fun experience. I'm looking forward to writing about it. Lance and Esmeralda will eventually, but not just yet. Thanks for reviewing!
TriGemini – I don't know how you think its just Fay cozying up when Gawain was basically stalking her home. Tristan would have been fine with the baby no matter whose it was, as he said in the explanation to Mariska at the beginning. And they celebrated the way they always do. Getting drunk at the tavern. It works for them. Thanks as always for your review.
Tracy137 – Wow, if the last one made you a legend imagine what this one did! LOL. NO FEATHER PILLOWS FROM NOW ON! You keep it up Trev is going to put a hit out on me. I knew you'd appreciate that one though. Let's face it though, if it's Tristan's kid or Dags, It'd be quiet. Not like Bors, Lance or egad's, Galahads! LMFAO. Still need to figure someone out for him…I knew you would love the dagger scene. And of course, there must be hair ruffling. After all sis, you're just not present in a story until Gal's hair has been ruffled. Well, Gawain will just have to do more of that then won't he? LOL! Glad you enjoyed it though. Hope you like this one just as much. I just hope I captured you correctly and you don't hate me for this chapter…please don't hate me.
Vintersorg – I'm glad you like my portrayal of Tristan. That's just how he is in my head, if that makes any sense, so that's how he ends up on paper. Well glad he's lovably so! LOL. I'm still trying to work out a character for him, as you're right, he's the only single one right now. Immensely, I love that word! Sorry random thought and now I'll back away before I start to scare people. Thanks for reviewing.
Lilstrummrgrl527 – LOL! Glad I didn't disappoint. But let's face it; if I had gone the other way I would have kicked my own ass! Gal's Gals? What's that? Girl band for Galahad? LMFAO! Good thing I didn't cut that hair then. Everyone loves his hair, it's so…sigh…okay I'm as bad as you are so you know I could never go through with it. I'm glad you enjoyed the proposal. It was a lot of fun to write. Thanks for reviewing.
Elfvamp1-13-97 – I'm a softie for the happy conclusions. Glad you liked him goading Bors into it. Thanks for reviewing.
Lovebuggy – All in one day? You deserve a medal or star for that. I'm glad you're enjoying it though! Makes me happy. And I'm so glad you liked the scene with Bors and Van. I was rather proud of that one. Thanks for reviewing. Please do it often.
MoonMaiden-of-Gawain – Why's that? I think you should. Thanks for reviewing as always! Glad you enjoyed it.
Newsieskane – That was one of my favorite parts too:o) Glad you're still enjoying everything. Thanks for reviewing.
Dellis - No one ever really gets "over" something like that. It's with them forever. But the hardest part is past yeah. And basically it's just going to become a fact of her life now, the new stuff overshadowing it, but it will always be there. Thanks for reviewing.
Lunawolf – It's okay, you are forgiven. Learning to drive is so exciting I'm not surprised you missed a few updates. Well you know how I love loopholes. ;o) Exactly my thinking. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who's been there to help with the transition. Ah you remember Ana then. LOL! Pregnancy is just so fun to write about, I can't resist. I agree with you there. Gawain is too much a sweetie not to have someone. I need to look at a map and figure it out. Thanks for letting me know, but as I didn't manage to get motivated on that time, you didn't miss anything. (School started Monday…ugh!) Thanks as always for your lovely review and be careful on those roads! (Watch out for cops they like to hide.)
Cardeia – Poor you, I'm sure you had a lot. Glad you got to mine though as your reviews not only make me smile, but usually think and examine my plot as well, so kudos to you for that. I was a bit worried on how Arthur would propose, but when I got there, it just flowed out so easily, and I was so grateful for that. That is from all my dealings with the medical community (as a patient, patients family and as a nursing student) that that comes from. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. I'm glad you enjoy those elements of my story though. It also makes for some rather surprise reactions that can be enjoying to read about (at least I hope so). Fay is great isn't she? And modeled after my favorite sister. I'm enjoying writing her so far, and we will see a lot more of her in the future. You know, after reading your Bors story I thought, I've been neglecting him! So that's why I had to put in this little bit. I am glad you enjoyed how I handled it, since it was my favorite part of the last chapter to write. So much more fun than the drama I've been churning out lately. I thought that line was rather inspired as well. I just kept seeing him reacting in the Tavern when they got the final order and it evolved from there. I'm glad you enjoyed it. No need for apologizes; I know you've been busy. I'm just glad you're still enjoying this little work of fiction. Sadly school started Monday so updates will not be as fast, but I still don't see any ending for it yet. Thank you for reviewing as always! And for your own lovely stories. I enjoy them so much and they really do inspire me.
Megan – Great? LOL! I'm glad the fluff was sufficient. You're very welcome for it. Thanks for the review, it made me laugh and wasn't two words long! LOL! I know, I'm so lucky to have a friend whose willing to review at 10 in the morning! So very early. ;o) Thank you for that. So nice of you. And thank you for reviewing on request.
DirrtyXtina87 – 4 days? You deserve a reward for that. But then, I don't think it's that good. LOL! Us authors. Anyway, glad to have you joining me on this little tale and I'll see if I can put a bit more Lance and Ez in for you. He is pretty damn sexy so I think I can manage that. Thanks for reviewing, please keep it up! Makes me happy.
Ailis-70 – Wow, long review. I like those though so yay! Glad you're happy about Guinevere. She was a cow. And gold star to you for using my favorite word of all time…twit! Glad you're happy with Jasmine. She's based off a friend of mine, so it all works out. I just thought the eyes would be a fun thing to play with and I'm glad it worked. Now, I adore Tristan, but he needed that slap! LOL. All men do every once in a while, or more often than that really. I'll explain more on Fay as we go along. Sorry for the wait on the update though, nursing school is such a bitch. Thank you again so very much for reviewing!
The Priestesses of Avalon
Chapter Twenty-Four: Threats of Life Too Soon
"Is it your wish, Vanora, to become one with this man?"
It was four months later and once again they stood at the stones near the fort, only this time it was Bors and Vanora before Mariska and Merlin, their bastards surrounding them. And this time two of the Priestesses had larger bellies than before.
"Aye. I suppose someone's got to," Vanora smiled up at Bors who was sweating like stuffed pigs, his armor freshly polished for the occasion as he stood proudly by her side, slipping the ring onto his finger.
"Is it your wish, Bors, to become one with this woman?" Mariska asked with a smile.
"Bloody hell I do," he replied, earning a light slap from Vanora and a huge smile as he slipped the ring onto her own finger.
"Do any say nay?" Mariska asked the crowd.
"Keeping in mind that you say anything, you answer to me," Dagonet stated to everyone with a smile, earning delighted laughter from all those present, and a gentle smile from his wife at his side. She and Mariska were both well into their fifth months now although Hayley was a good two weeks further along, and one of his hands rested over her growing belly, the other around her waist and rubbing her back. No one objected.
"Then as the Goddess and the God and the Old Ones are witness to this rite, I now proclaim you husband and wife!"
Vanora launched herself into Bors arms while he hauled her close, both kissing deeply as a cheer went up round the crowd, no one louder than the brood who was busy jumping up and down around their parents, throwing flower petals into the sky.
They broke apart breathless, both grinning from ear to ear while the knights and their women gathered about the happy couple and hyperactive children.
"Vanora you look beautiful!" Hayley cooed, hugging the woman, both groups breaking apart a bit, the women to one side and the men the other, while the children ran off to play, Nefertari hopping closely behind Lucan.
"Can you believe it yet?" Esmeralda laughed while they all gathered round the woman, arms wrapped about her shoulders.
"Nay lass, I don't think I can!" Vanora laughed.
"Are you happy Van?" Fay asked, coming up for her hug.
"Shocked really. I can't believe I took him!" Vanora was all smiles as she winked at Esmeralda, Mariska and Fay. "Just leaves you three yet."
"Don't look at us, at least we have snared our men," Mariska snorted, rubbing the slightly aching spot in her back. She had been on her feet too long and it was becoming evident now. Hayley had already sank down on a nearby bolder herself, and since she was a bit further along, it made sense to Mariska to let her have it. "She's the one dawdling over it!" she jerked her thumb at Fay, a sour expression coming to her face.
Everyone looked at her oddly for a moment. It hadn't taken them long to realize that Mariska's moods could change as fast as the breeze, and Tristan had a fading black eye to prove that. And one of her current pet peeves was Fay and Gawain. While the girls had immediately taken to each other, and adopted her into their ever-growing circle, the same could not be said for the young couple. It seemed that they were forever dancing around one another, with Gawain walking her home each evening, and Fay supplying him with her devout attention, both growing closer and closer, and yet refusing to take that final plunge. To anyone who asked, they were just friends.
"Easy there," Jasmine stated quirking an eyebrow at her friend a smirk on her face. She had known Mariska a long time, and had been there for her pregnancy with Celeste but that didn't make her mood swings now any less humorous.
"Aye Mariska let them be. The are not the only ones among us that moved slowly and took their time with it," Hayley agreed, giving Fay a smile.
"Ah yes, how long did it take you and Tristan to get too it again?" Esmeralda asked with a wink.
"And your point is what exactly?" Mariska barked, glaring at them.
"That I understand you love me and wish me to be happy sister," Fay came over quickly wrapping her arms about Mariska and resting her chin on young Priestess's shoulder. They had all taken to calling one another sister and no one dared question it, not even the King himself and his knights. "Sooner than later from the looks of it."
"Aye, that I do," Mariska sighed resting her hands over Fay's arms, glancing over at her, feeling tears come to her eyes. 'Damn these mood swings!' she growled internally.
"But you must understand that we move at a pace that is best for us. Gawain knows of my past and knows I am not quick to trust," Fay explained.
"Just as you weren't," Jasmine reminded her, leaning over to pick up Isis, who was busy rubbing against her legs before Fay continued.
"He is being patient with me and gentle and I could not ask for more than that." Fay smiled at her giving her a squeeze. "So let us just be happy for Van now yes?"
Mariska nodded, not trusting her voice to speak, instead hugging Fay back before going to Vanora, wrapping her arms around her as well. "Oh Van, I am so happy for you," she almost sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks.
"Aye, I can see that lass," Van chuckled hugging her back fiercely. "Must be why you're washin' my dress for me."
The women all shared a good laugh before falling back into easy conversation, beginning to make their way back down the hill towards the fort.
Meanwhile the men weren't far off, laughing and joking themselves.
"Wot's the matter Dag?" Bors asked slapping his friends shoulder as the larger man slumped down against a tree, looking more exhausted than if he had been in battle for four days straight. "Babe keepin' you up already?" the loud knight chuckled while the others smirked on.
"She is insatiable Bors," Dagonet groaned his head coming to rest in his hands. While Mariska's was proving to be a violent pregnancy, Hayley's was proving to be a passionate one. "And after we have been loving long into the night she sends me out for the strangest concoctions of food I have ever heard of."
"And is asleep before you get back," Bors smirked knowingly.
"I cannot remember the last night I slept straight through," Dag moaned.
"Trade you," Tristan snorted, leaning against the opposite tree, bringing his fingers up to his eye, toughing it gently, glad to find the swelling had subsided.
"Ah yes and what did you do to deserve that again?" Lancelot smirked, the splint in his lip still healing, leaning next to the scout, the others leaning in closer as well, eager to hear the tale again. It was so rare that anyone ever got a hit in on Tristan, let alone a woman.
Tristan glowered over at him, the day returning clearly to his memory. He had been polishing his sword, sitting in their rooms when she had walked in glaring at him, a now somewhat familiar occurrence.
He quirked an eyebrow at her and asked, "What?"
"You are the most insensitive bastard I have ever had the chance to meet in my lifetime," she growled at him, crossing her arms over her chest. "Have you nothing to say to me?"
"What exactly am I supposed to say?" Tristan sighed. He didn't know how much longer this could go on. These mood swings of hers would kill him.
Suddenly tears began to stream down her face and her body shook with sobs as her hands flew to her eyes. "So I am hideous then!"
"What's this eh?" Tristan was at her side in an instant, wiping the tears from her eyes.
"I am a fat hideous cow!" she sobbed throwing herself against his chest. "You don't even think I'm beautiful any longer."
"When did I say this?" he asked, rubbing her back gently.
"You did not have too. I see it in your eyes," she choked out.
"Then you have not been looking," he sated, capturing her chin with his fingers and forcing her to look at him, locking eyes with her. "There is no more beautiful woman at this fort. Now what brought this on?" His tone booked no room for argument, nor did his intense gaze.
"Lancelot was telling Esmeralda how beautiful she is, making a fuss over her and you don't do that with me," she whispered sniffling.
"Aye, and I never have," Tristan stated. "That is Lancelot's way, not my own."
Her eyes immediately dried and anger clouded her face. "So I am not worth the effort then?" she growled at him, pushing him away, her hands going back to her hips. "Merely something other than your horse to throw your leg over?"
He looked at her in shock for a moment, trying to think of what to say to that. He was so focused on her face and the thought that she had finally lost her mind, or what had been left of it, that he never saw her fist coming until it struck his eye.
After she hit him both stood there in shock, Tristan's hand going to his eye, hers flying to her mouth. "Oh Goddess Tristan, what have I done?" she whispered, rushing to his side to examine it. "I am so sorry. So, so sorry! Please forgive me," she begged, new tears falling from her eyes.
He sighed, trying to curb the anger that was growing along with the annoyance and frustration with her. "It is fine," he said, capturing her hands and kissing the palms, fighting every urge to strike out at her. "I know you cannot control this, but you must try harder. For both our sakes." He stopped and gazed in to her eyes, seeing the remorse plainly there. His arm snaked about her waist, pulling her flush against him, bringing his hand up to caress her face gently. "Never doubt my love for you, or how beautiful you are to me," he murmured huskily, his lips capturing her own in a brief, yet passionate kiss.
Tears were in her eyes again as they broke apart, gazing at one another. Slowly she stood on her tiptoes, caressing his face and kissing his eye gently. Her lips trailed down to his lips, hovering there. "I am sorry I hit you," she murmured, her lips brushing against his own with each word she spoke, driving him mad with desire. He lifted her up, kissing her passionately once more, taking her to the bed and spent the rest of the afternoon showing her just how beautiful she was to him.
Later he had gone to the tavern and split Lancelot's lip with a hard right hook. He would never hit a woman; his father had taught him better than that. But his brother however was fair game. And while it had made him feel better at the time, now all Lance wished to do was harp on the fact that in reality, Mariska had gotten angry because Tristan was not more like the dark knight.
"Because I do not make a spectacle of myself," Tristan growled, being pulled from his thoughts and back into reality.
"You mean because you're not more like me," Lancelot smirked like the cat that ate the canary.
"I do not think Mariska is looking for the forts seconds Lancelot," Arthur chuckled, noting the murderous glare Tristan was shooting at his second.
"Especially Esmeralda's," Gawain added with a smirk.
"Besides, the wench needs someone who can take a hit," Bors roared, slapping Lancelot hard on the back, remembering how it had taken Lance a good twenty minutes to come to after Tristan had decked him.
That set the men off again as Lancelot blushed, laughing like hyenas. Galahad glanced over at the women then, seeing them already halfway back to the fort. "Look yonder," he said, nudging Dagonet, who had fallen asleep with his head resting in his arms, which were situated comfortably on his knees. "Mayhap we should catch up?" he suggested, Gawain, Arthur, Lance and Tristan already moving down after them.
"Aye," Bors said, hauling Dag to his feet, the tall knight rubbing his eyes sleepily. "Let's go catch our harpies!"
The men easily caught up to the women, each finding their own, except of course for Galahad, who was the only single one left in the group. Bors immediately grabbed Vanora, kissing her deeply while Lancelot swung Esmeralda around, setting her off to laughing as she hopped up onto his back.
Arthur took Jasmine's arm, bringing her other hand to his lips and kissing it gently. Gawain offered his arm to Fay, which she happily took while he grasped her hand, kissing the palm sweetly, never breaking eye contact with her. Dagonet took Hayley about the waist, dropping a kiss onto her head while she leaned it against his shoulder, sighing contentedly. Tristan draped his arm about Mariska's shoulders, kissing her temple while she leaned against him, her hand coming up to lace with the one on her shoulder, smiling happily up at him while her other hand came to rest on her growing stomach.
The group walked on companionably, chatting amongst themselves and laughing happily. There was a feeling of peace about them, and safety that had not been there just four months earlier, and certainly not almost twelve moons prior.
Merlin watched on from behind them, a smile warming his features. It did his heart good to see them all, especially his granddaughter, so happy. Perhaps now things would start to look up for them. He looked up at the sky, frowning at the clouds forming on the horizon. He just hoped Destiny would be kind as he sighed and began to make his way slowly down the hill after them.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
"How does Vanora do this every night?" Esmeralda asked breathlessly, filling another set of mugs, earning laughs from the gathered knights and ladies, and a sympathetic look from her lover, who pulled her into his lap. She was helping Fay and the three other barmaids for the evening, since Van was off celebrating with her new husband, the children playing about the table would go home amongst the knights later, most going with Dagonet and Hayley, must to the great knights delight. He was hoping he would be able to get some sleep with her having the herd to fuss over.
"What is it Ez, life of a barmaid doesn't suit you?" Galahad laughed, earning a cuff to the back of the head from Fay, followed by a good ruffle of his hair and a laugh at his indignant look.
"Be nice Galahad, or I'll put you to filling pots," Fay laughed, setting a fresh one before Gawain with a wink. Sometimes she wished she could move past all the things that had happened to her and mostly the loss of her lover three years prior. She had been better off, after meeting him. He had helped her move past the attack at the hands of the Roman officers that had held her captive.
She had been taken as a slave from her home in Britain at a vary young age and trained to fight and had even lived in Rome for a time, in an experiment the Emperor had concocted, throwing women into the pits to fight the lions and gladiators as well. But as Rome was dying, so were the games, and she was glad to be taken out of them. That is until she was given to the battalion where they had raped and molested her for the better part of a year. Her lover, Jack, he had saved her though. Taught her how to trust and how to love again.
When he died, that part of her died with him, at least to an extent, and while now it was growing once again in her heart, especially with the more time she spent with Gawain, it had yet to fully return. And it made their relationship slow going at best.
"Why did I offer to do this?" Esmeralda grumbled, wrapping her arms about Lancelot's neck and burying her head in his shoulder.
"Because you're a very sweet girl," Hayley smiled at her, bouncing Van and Bors youngest on her knee, the one year old laughing gleefully and clapping his hands for more.
"And the only one of us who can both see and is not pregnant," Jasmine smirked, snuggling closer to Arthur as she leaned against his chest, his arms wrapped protectively about her while he looked at the maps Merlin had drawn up for him, detailing the land where his new fortress would be. Some Britons had already started construction, and Tristan was going to leave in two days to scout their progress.
"Oh I can fix that," Esmeralda stated her head shooting up, the group laughing at how pale Lancelot had suddenly become as he stared at the back of her head, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water.
"Best talk to your man about that first," Mariska chuckled leaning back against the wall, one hand on her belly and the other playing with the hair at the base of Tristan's neck while he ate an apple.
"Lance, are you okay?" Esmeralda asked sweetly, her face a mask of innocence, but her eyes dancing in mirth as she regarded him.
He saw the merriment there and his color slowly began to return. "Wench!" he yelled, hauling her too him and kissing her deeply, making her toes curl in her boots.
They broke apart breathless and laughing. "Do not worry Lancelot. You do not have to worry about getting me pregnant anytime soon," she winked at him and rose, returning towards the back to get more pots of ale for the men.
Lancelot looked stunned for a moment and glanced over at the women. "Did she say what I think she just did?" he asked, his pallor returning faster than it had left.
"Mayhap she is just playing with you again Lancelot," Hayley offered, trying to sound encouraging while she tried not to laugh.
"I don't know sister, she is looking rounder about the hips as of late," Mariska smirked.
"And she had her head in a bucket yesterday as I recall," Tristan remarked thoughtfully, a smirk in his eyes as he leaned back to feed a bite of apple to Mariska, rubbing her stomach absentmindedly, something he could be seen doing quite often.
Lancelot paled further and gulped while the others began to laugh.
"What is it Lance? Not looking for another bastard?" Arthur joked.
"I thought half of these were yours," Galahad laughed, indicating Bors bunch who was busy getting Uncle Dagonet to play with them.
Lancelot just paled further. "Well…it's… what I mean is…"
This set them off to laughing again, and that was the state that Fay and Esmeralda found them in twenty minutes later. "What's this?" Fay asked, coming and sinking down next to Gawain, her chin coming to rest on his shoulder.
"Are you pregnant?" Lancelot blurted out jumping from his seat and staring at Esmeralda, a range of emotions raging in his eyes.
"What?" she looked startled and took a step back.
"Are you with child?" his voice was almost pleading as he stared at her.
"Why?" she quirked an eyebrow at him. "Would that be such a bad thing?" she crossed her arms over her chest and glared at him.
"Of course not! Now are you or not?" Lancelot barked at her.
"Well if it maters not then why are you so upset?" She challenged, glaring at him.
"Because it is not kind to get a man's hopes up!" Lancelot bellowed back. "Now answer me wench!"
Esmeralda looked at him shocked for a moment, her hands falling to her sides and the tavern going quiet as they stared at one another. "I am not," she said after a moment, her voice soft. "I…I did not think you wished children…"
A wave of disappointment washed over Lancelot's face that he quickly covered. "Well, it bares discussing," he said, clearing his throat before sitting back down, glaring at the crowd. "What's so fascinating eh? Get back to your ale," he waved them all off, sinking down on the table top, cupping his drink in his hands.
A smile came to Esmeralda's lips as she walked over, resting her hands on his shoulders and leaning over to kiss his cheek. "We will speak on it later," she murmured, moving up to kiss his temple. "Such a good man," she gave his shoulder a squeeze, earning a loving look from him as she strolled away, a small smile on her face.
"Oh," Hayley said suddenly, her eyes sparkling and a smile coming to her face, drawing everyone at the tables' attention away from Lancelot as she handed the baby over to his eldest sister. "The baby moved," she smiled.
"Did he?" Mariska asked with a smirk, her eyes dancing as she glanced over towards Jasmine, who immediately rose to the bait.
"I am sure she did," the blonde replied with a smirk, snuggling closer to Arthur. They had a bet going as to the sex of Hayley's baby and no one was sure which Priestess to side with. It ended up split down the middle with half of them siding with Mariska and the other half with Jasmine, and Dagonet just hoping it would be healthy.
"There it goes again," Hayley smiled, placing Dagonet's hand over the spot. "Very active this evening."
"I would be too after eating fish stew," Fay commented wrinkling her nose, finding Gawain's hand beneath the table.
They all laughed but caught the change that suddenly came over Hayley's face, the joyful smile disappearing and being replaced by a look of concern and confusion. "Hayley, what is it?" Mariska asked, leaning forward, waving Esmeralda over.
"I don't know…there is a pain," she said, feeling another.
"What kind of pain?" Dagonet asked, kneeling next to her in concern. Jasmine rose then and felt her way about the table to Hayley's side, Mariska beating her there.
"It is sharp," Hayley said, fear coming to her eyes. "Dagonet what's wrong?" she asked, her voice trembling with concern.
"Nothing darling," Mariska said for him, noting the fear in his own eyes. "Most likely just your food returning to pester you," she placed a hand on Hayley's belly and felt it gently, noting that the baby faced the wrong way, hoping that meant it was not ready to come into the world any time soon.
"What is it?" Esmeralda asked, coming forward then, fear in her eyes.
"Hayley is not feeling too well is all," Mariska said, her voice remaining unbelievably calm.
"Yes we just need to get her to bed," Jasmine spoke up as well, glancing at Mariska, her eyes a wash of different colors, making sure to keep them hidden from Hayley. She was no longer with them from the looks of it.
"Fay, could you help us?" Mariska asked the other woman. "Jasmine is useless with out her sight and Ez, I need you and Dag to run ahead and prepare the room.
"I think I should stay with her," Dag protested, the fear already seeping into his voice, agitating Hayley further.
"I think you should go with Esmeralda and prepare the room," Mariska stated firmly. "Lancelot, Tristan," she called the men over, her eyes pleading.
"Come Dag," Lance said, rising with Tristan and dragging the large knight behind Esmeralda, who was already rushing towards the rooms.
Fay moved to Hayley's other side, both girls helping her to rise, pausing at the small bit of blood they saw on the back of her gown and the seat. They shared a worried look before Mariska once again took charge. "Gawain, Galahad, can you help Fay. I need to get her some herbs to help her rest," she stated, giving Hayley's arm to Gawain. At the panicked look from the woman she quickly went on. "Do not fear sister, I will not let aught happen to you or the babe."
Hayley nodded and let them lead her away while Mariska turned to Arthur, Jasmine and Jols, who had come in earlier. "Jols, run and find my grandfather, tell him Hayley is having pains and there is a bit of blood," Mariska stated before turning to the king. "Arthur, stay with Jasmine until she knows what is wrong, I must be away."
"Go, she is safe with me," Arthur stated, his arms resting about the woman he loved, her eyes once again their natural blue, telling him she was not with him at the moment.
Mariska nodded her thanks before turning to rush towards the infirmary, noticing the children, Lucan in particular, looking worriedly after his mother, being led towards their rooms. "Do not fret Lucan," she knelt before the boy and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Do you trust me?"
"Yes Aunt Mariska, but my mother…" Lucan was near tears now and two of Bors older girls came to hug him, the younger ones as well, gathering about him.
"Your mother is a Priestess of Avalon and the Great Goddess herself. Do you trust in the magic she wields, and the magic of myself and my sisters?"
"Yes," his voice was still shaking.
"Then trust all will be well. Now go and find Ganis, and stay with him at the stables. Tell him to bring out our horses and let you ride them," she gave his shoulder a squeeze and kissed his head. "Tend to him," she told the other children before rising, rushing off towards the infirmary, giving out a low whistle as she went.
Vigdis came and perched on her shoulder, hooting in question.
"Yes it is bad. I do not know how much so yet," she turned to the bird. "Go and tell Sonia. We may have to rush her and the babe there if aught goes wrong."
The bird regarded her for a moment before hooting once more, taking off to the sky, disappearing on the horizon. Mariska quickened her pace, begging the Gods to spare her friend the suffering she had a feeling was ahead. And to spare the child.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Mariska entered the infirmary to find Merlin already there, fussing over Hayley and Tristan and Lancelot restraining Dagonet in the corner. Bors and Vanora had been sent for and she was helping Fay and Merlin with Hayley while Bors spoke to his large friend quietly, trying to comfort him.
"Mariska it is bad," Esmeralda whispered, pulling her aside.
"Has she lost her water?" Mariska asked, her hand going unconsciously to her stomach. She could not even begin to dream about this happening to her, and the fear at seeing one of her closest sisters going through it was breaking her heart.
"No, but the labor pains are present," Esmeralda's voice was frantic. "It could break at anytime, and Merlin is worried. There was blood."
Mariska nodded slowly and handed her the bag. "Make up the tea and when you return, above all else control yourself," she growled at her. "The more she worries the more dangerous it becomes. Go." She sent her sister off and walked over to the bed, smiling down at Hayley.
"Mariska it is too soon," Hayley choked out, gripping at her arm.
"Aye, but your water has yet to break, so lets not worry just yet," Mariska said, squeezing her hand reassuringly and looking up to catch her grandfather's eyes, the worry plain in them. "Come do not fear Hayley, it is bad for you and the babe to do so."
"I am trying Mariska, truly I am," she whispered, her voice laced with tears. "But it is hard."
"Then take of my strength sister, for I have plenty to spare," Mariska smiled down at her, sinking onto the bed and gripping her hand.
"Aye, that goes double for me," Vanora stated, sitting on the other side and gripping her other hand.
"Me as well," Fay sat next to the bed on the floor near Vanora and reaching her hand to rest over both of theirs. "You are not alone."
"Thank you sisters," Hayley relaxed a little, squeezing their hands tightly. "Lucan and the children though," she began to be cut off.
"We will tend them," Lancelot assured her, he, Bors and Tristan shoving Dagonet towards the door. "Will we not Dag?"
He looked at his wife, trying to hide the fear in his heart, placing a mask over his face. "Aye Hayley, rest and worry not over them." He knew he had to be strong for her, but in truth, all he wanted to do was go to her, take her in his arms and make this all go away but he knew he could not. Instead he broke away from his brothers and walked over to her, kissing her soundly. "All will be well," he stated firmly, brushing a hair from her face before leaving with the other knights in tow.
Once in the hall he broke down, his head in his hands as he sobbed out his worry, his brothers letting him, Bors crouching next to him, muttering words of comfort and squeezing his shoulder, Gawain, Galahad, Lancelot and Tristan watching on, the former three worried for their brother and his wife and the latter worried for them and for Mariska.
It was then Arthur and Jasmine came up, Jasmine looking weak and Arthur concerned. "I must speak to Mariska now," Jasmine stated, her hands trembling slightly.
"What is it?" Dag was on his feet, his eyes glistening as he glared at her. "What is happening?"
"It is bad Dag," Jasmine whispered. While she spoke, Gawain had rushed into the room and returned with Mariska and Merlin, Esmeralda coming up just then to hear as well, the bowl of herbs in her hand. "If she and the babe are to stand any chance at all, they must be taken to Avalon, and quick as we can get there too."
"But Avalon is a long way from here," Galahad stated in shock.
"And the ride not an easy one," Gawain added sadly.
"It will kill her," Esmeralda all but whispered, tears coming to her cheeks as Lancelot quickly moved to her side, sweeping her into his arms and comforting her quietly.
"They will both die if we stay here. If we get her there, then at least there is a chance. The baby is suffering, and will need to be cut out. Only Sonia can perform it properly, and if we linger, she may go into labor here," Jasmine explained, holding out her hand to Arthur, who took it and gathered her into his arms. "It is the only way."
"Could you not remove the child here?" Bors asked, having seen the procedure done once before, in his village as a child. With each of his bastards he had worried it would have to be done with Vanora.
"Not and have her live. It is too dangerous," Mariska sighed, catching Merlin's eye. "If it is not done in time with the proper blessings, then the baby will be born still, and she would have to give up her life for it to live," Mariska's voice was hardly above a whisper as she reached for her grandfather's hand, giving it a squeeze. "It will require the entire temple."
"How will we move her without killing them?" Tristan asked, a knowing look behind his eyes. She had told him the story of her birth, and it had only worried him more as her pregnancy wore on. The events of tonight only helped to fuel his worry now.
"Our horses could move her," Jasmine said, bringing her head up from its place against Arthur's chest. "And they still carry the magic from where Sonia blessed them."
"But how would the men keep up?" Esmeralda asked, wiping at her eyes.
"We need to bless their horses as well," Jasmine stated. "Or go on with out them."
"You are not leaving without me," Dagonet stated firmly. "I'll not lose her."
Jols came up then, a concerned look on his face. "I checked with Ganis, he 'as the babes. Wot can I do?"
"Jols I am so glad to see you. Ready our horses," Mariska said. "Attach them to a wagon, Esmeralda go and assist him. Tell them it is necessary and what is happening. Jasmine, do you remember the spell?"
"Nay, and I don't know that I have the energy to do it now," Jasmine answered honestly.
"Very well, you can help me with Hayley. We must keep her calm," Mariska was already planning. "Go and get some rest first. It will be a long journey."
"You cannot go alone," Gawain pointed out.
"Yes, right," Arthur stated. "We will ride out with you."
"Right. Let us just hope that Sonia has seen ahead enough to send the spell with Vigdis then," Mariska said, reaching her hand out to clasp Dagonet's arm. "Do not worry my friend. We will save them," she assured him.
He nodded once, going into the room with her again and the other women, Bors following close behind in case he needed him. Jols rushed off with Esmeralda, Lancelot trailing after them, Esmeralda's hand grasped tightly in his own.
"Gawain, Galahad, prepare the bags please, and make sure we have plenty of food for the journey," Arthur said, the men nodding and walking away to prepare, his arms still supporting Jasmine, who was leaning tiredly. "Darling, go and get some rest. We will see that everything is taken care of," he assured Jasmine who nodded, moving to hug her sister before walking down to her quarters, leaving only Arthur, Tristan, Merlin and Mariska in the hallway.
"I will call for the Woads to accompany us," Merlin stated, preparing to head towards the stairs.
"No wait, we have no time for them to be blessed as well," Mariska said, massaging her temples. "Send them out ahead to scout the way, at least to make sure it is clear. We can handle no distractions now."
Merlin nodded at her, coming and kissing her forehead. "You must pace yourself granddaughter," he cautioned her. "For your sake as well as my great grandchild's."
"I am fine grandfather thank you," she smiled at him. He walked down the stairs "Arthur, thank you for your help with this," she smiled over at the King.
"You are all family to me now Mariska," he walked over to her and took her about the shoulders, looking her in the eye. "We will see her well again."
"Thank you brother," she smiled at him, leaning forward and embracing him.
"I will go and assist with the preparations," he said hugging her back before turning, clapping Tristan on the shoulder and walking away, leaving them alone.
"You should rest as well," he said after a moment, his face a mask, but his eyes filled with concern as he crossed the distance between them, wrapping her in his arms.
"I cannot, she needs me now," Mariska stated, snuggling against him for a moment, letting down her facade for a moment and allowing him to be her strength. "We must help her Tristan."
"We will. We will get her to the temple," he stated firmly, hugging her closely.
She gazed up into his eyes, rubbing her thumbs gently over the tattoos on his cheeks. "When you say that, I believe it," she murmured, leaning forward and kissing him gently. "I love you."
"Love you," he replied, holding her close a moment longer, resting his forehead against hers.
"I must go to her," she sighed after a moment. "She needs me now," with one final squeeze she disappeared into the room. He gazed at the door for a long moment before turning and walking towards the stables, to see what kind of help he could provide them.
Authors Note: I'm horrible I know. One awful thing just keeps happening after another to these people. I will try to update sooner this time and again, sorry for the delay, but it gave me fits it did. Hope you enjoyed it anyway, and please review.