-a/n- I'm SORRY. Being a vet student leaves very little time for writing! Since I last updated this is only my 2nd full week "holiday" at home. It may be a little rough around the edges, but Fallen's completion is long overdue. Thanks to all who still review/message me, here it is...

Confusedknight x

Whilst it wasn't as much sleep as Kel or Alex needed, it was enough, for now. As the sun crept over the horizon Alex pulled himself from the bed, waking Kel.

'You should rest more.'

Kel made a face and pulled herself upright. 'As should you.'

As stubborn as each other, neither was going to waste the time arguing over it. Alex went over to the window, limping slightly, stiff from his rest, and gazed out across his kingdom. Kel joined him, wincing as her body remembered the abuse it had suffered the previous morning.

'Look at it Kel,' his voice was hushed, tired and yet almost reverent. Orange light spread slowly, illuminating purple streaked clouds and a city that was gently waking, smoke beginning to find its way skywards from the dark buildings spread before them.

'It's such a mess, and yet...'

'The potential,' Kel breathed, her voice rough following sleep. 'She's yours to mould.'

'And mould her we will,' Alex all but whispered.

Kel couldn't fathom the pressure, the expectation that Alex always carried. Even now, with Maggur's head on a spike, he was expected to rebuild the fractured country with scarce help or materials. He was responsible for millions of people, their welfare and livelihoods. How he planned to disband the armies, feed the nation, prevent riots, establish trade, rebuild clans, towns and mines destroyed by fighting, Kel didn't know. She didn't even know where she'd fit into this new world...

Half of her wanted to grab Alex's shoulders and celebrate, to shout in jubilation that they'd set out what they'd aimed to achieve. But the pain of those who'd been lost, sacrificed for a greater cause was still too great. Running deeper than the grief was a relief that seemed to saturate Kel's very bones. She found herself finally able to consider returning to Tortall as a reality. Her heart swelled at the though of seeing Dom again, of her old knight-master Raoul, best friend Neal, even Owen, Wyldon, Lucie, her parents, Lalasa and her many other friends in the Riders and Own. How wondrous it would be to spend time with them without the threat of war or unfulfilled promises hanging over her.

'What do you want me to do?' The question was simple, but referred to so much more than just the day's activities.

Alex looked around at his sister and closest friend.

'Little one, I'd have you leading my armies, training my son, acting as an ambassador, my champion, confidante...' he turned from the sight of Hamrkeng to face Kel for the first time. 'I owe you more than I could ever possibly repay. You'll always have a home here, be honoured as a hero, a champion of Scanra. But you have a life back in Tortall, friends, a family, a job you love...you deserve to be happy.' He stroked Kel's cheek tenderly. 'You'll always be my sister. That's more than enough for me.'

Kel knew in her heart that Alex was right, could even feel small tendrils of homesickness starting to take root. The only thing that was truly keeping her in Scanra now was Alex. Her obligations to this country were finally fulfilled.

She pulled Alex into a tight hug, fighting tears at the thought of leaving him, again.

The mornings always started with a bewildering haze of meetings. Extensive plans for the running of the country had to be drawn up and men found who could implement them with authority. Scanra was so vast that it would take weeks for emissaries to travel to the northerly populations. For this reason, Alex was using his mage network to communicate with Fassin, who was already placed up north, poised to spring into being a northern hub of Alex's power.

With each passing problem set before them, the enormity of rebuilding a country seemed to grow in Kel's eyes. They had to split tasks into short and long-term issues and then had to find ways of keeping people alive until the longer problems could be rectified.

For example, the slave plantations; - which Alex had vowed to Kel he would disband- if the slaves were simply set free, turfed out from the farm, not only would thousands of men, women and children be without possessions or livelihood, but the rest of the country would suffer food shortages too. For now, they had to settle with drawing up plans to improve welfare on the farms, with a longer term plan to disband the plantations into smaller farms which could be granted to those who knew how to work it best; the slaves themselves.

Similar problems existed with relocating those released from the army. Where would they go? What would they eat if their homes and livelihoods existed no more? The solutions would be complex, but Alex thought he could persuade the majority of the army to continue working for him, not in a fighting capacity, but as a generalised workforce that could be tasked with projects that Alex wanted to start up all over Scanra. These included building safe roads and resurrecting lost towns and villages. In exchange for their service, the men would be given food. It would be inglorious. Alex's only hope at persuading them to take up such an occupation was to try and ignite a sense of patriotism within the downtrodden men.

Kel contributed to these meetings in her quiet, thoughtful manner. She described how the King's Own, whilst primarily a fighting force had built flood defences, cleared towns of mudslides and other menial tasks. She also spoke passionately on setting a deadline for the dissolution of the slave trade. "Make it part of your new culture" she said flatly, "before it becomes more difficult than ever to get rid of such practices."

A diplomat's daughter and a knight of Tortall, Kel also was a great help in writing documents, offers of peace, friendship and trade to Scanra's neighbours; Tortall, Galla, the Yamani Isles and the Copper Isles. There were also invitations to Alex's coronation to be issued, not to mention the organisation and logistics of such an event. Everyone was in agreement that the ascension to the throne should be marked by some sort of occasion; Scanran's did love their festivals after all, but Alex was adamant that the already financially crippled realm would not suffer as a result of the celebrations.

The group of Alex's advisors included those who knew the land best; farmers for agricultural advice, miners, merchant, fur trader, blacksmiths. Real people who would know what it would take to get the country running again. There was not going to be enough food until proper farming systems were in place. Up until then, it would be up to Alex's treasury to buy food from neighbouring countries. Using natural resources that Scanra had a lot of; steel, fur and gems might help to fund food for everyone temporarily. The path to a stable, sufficient economy seemed long and arduous.

Three weeks had lapsed since Maggur had been overthrown. Her wounds from the terrible final battle had almost healed, but the days had been long and the nights fraught with bad dreams. Kel was exhausted. She'd barely had a moment to herself, and yet surrounded by equally weary advisors and fighters alike, she felt quite alone. Kel hadn't even time to train and already her body felt stiff from lack of exercise, weak from her limited food intake.

If she let her mind drift southwards, Kel was quickly engulfed by a sense of guilt. She'd spent so long working for the situation she now found herself in, and yet all she wanted to do was to return home.

One morning she'd been reunited with her band of Tortallan soldiers, including the five who'd been captured into slavery prior to the battle. They'd gained brands and a few whip marks from the experience but had otherwise managed to keep their heads down and avoid major incident. Of her eighty fighters that had come north, just forty-six remained. The solemnity that hung in the air when they'd gathered together had nearly bought tears to Kel's eyes. In her mind she could see faces that should've been their, men who'd never return to their homeland.

It wasn't long before Alex sought Kel out. He too looked grey and haggard, but his hazel eyes were steely, and fevered with determination. The gods must've been giving him strength that Kel knew not, because he showed no sign of letting up the pace.

They'd just been watching several companies leave Hamrkeng, bound for other clans, tasked with trying to slowly enforce Alex's recently drawn up decrees further afield, when the King spoke to his sister.

'I think it's time.'

Kel opened her mouth to argue. Alex needed every man, or woman, he could get. But he cut across her;

'I have a son in Tortall, who not only needs informing that he is in fact a Prince, but would also benefit from a few lessons in Scanran history,' Alex whispered in Common, so quietly that Kel had to strain to hear. 'I intend to have him at my coronation.'

'But-'

'Kel, you know that I would happily keep you at my side forever and a day, but you take orders from King Jonathan too, and your men deserve to return home. Besides, there's no one I'd rather entrust my son to.'

It made sense, and it wasn't as though Kel was unprepared to leave Alex, not like the first time he'd sent her back to Tortall. They kept their goodbyes short; Kel would be at the coronation after all. She'd been surprised when a handful of men had requested to stay in Hamrkeng. A couple had become caught up in the cause, and whilst Kel had no official capacity to release them from the army, she granted her blessing. Henry also asked to stay behind, though Kel had a suspicion that was more to do with Millyaethan anything else.

So it was, that Kel found herself riding south across the border for the third time in her life, the late summer sun warm on their backs. No longer did Kel have to use the smuggler's services in the dead of night. Instead, the forty Tortallans became some of the first to cross at the new official Vassa crossing. On their borrowed mounts, they rode East to Northwatch.

The tired warriors passed through fiefs and forests. Apart from brief exchanges with border posts and small fortresses along the way, Kel and her men didn't stop, feeling almost like the weariness was the price that had to be paid for being privileged enough to return.

She had no specific instructions, nor had she had any word from Northwatch, but with the war over, it seemed a likely place for the commanders to be discussing the future of Northern defences. Kel's logic was proved right as they started up the long sloping ground to the impressive fort. Many flags flapped enthusiastically in the cool breeze, informing Kel that one of the men she was most desperate to see, Raoul of Goldenlake, was in residence. It had been nearly nine long months since she'd seen the large man who was all but father to her.

Someone on the wall must've sent word or recognised her, because as the band approached the gate, the oak doors swung open. A man behind Kel gave a small cheer and his voice was joined by excited others. Kel turned to Lyssa, who was riding next to her and allowed herself a relieved smile.

'And so our journey ends.'

'We did it, Lady Kel, we did it.'

Kel noted the renewed use of her title, but said nothing of it as the horses trotted smartly into the cobbled courtyard of Northwatch. Knights and soldiers alike were pouring into the yard to greet the new arrivals. Someone began to clap, and suddenly applause was battering Kel's ears. From what had started out as a top secret mission had evidently become general knowledge amongst the army, Own and Riders.

As the horses came to a halt, the masses surged forward, greeting old friends and comrades. Kel dismounted and taking her mount by the reins, continued forward to the official welcome party; General Vanget, as stoic as always, Lord Wyldon quietly approving, Raoul's ruddy face beaming and the Lioness smiling.

Kel had quite run out of words, and stood, immobile, letting the cacophony wash over her. The General, signalled a nearby squire to take Kel's horse.

'Lady Knight, your country owes you it's thanks. We owe you our thanks for ended this cursed war. Come, you must be weary from the road and we have much to discuss.'

Kel nodded and tried to open her mouth to formulate some sort of official reply, but Raoul swept her into a bear hug before she suffered the embarrassment of failing to find words. Something of the familiar scent, the safe embrace revived Kel. She was home.

'We did it,' she murmured in Scanran.

'Praise Mithros, you're safe,' Raoul spoke over her head. Then, shifting her so that she was tucked under one weighty arm, her old knight master led her away. They'd been walking for a minute or so before Raoul burst out, seemingly unable to contain himself any longer, 'Kel I'm betrothed to Buri!'

Kel looked around, the warm sensation of joy seeping through the numbness.

'That's wonderful news my Lord.' Raoul looked too happy to reprimand Kel about the formal title. 'When are you to be married?'

'This Midwinter, if all goes smoothly.' Kel let this news settle in, plans were beginning to form for a post-war life; there would be things to look forward to, life would go on.

'I have to ask,' Kel swallowed, 'Dom, Neal, Owen...?'

'All fine,' replied Raoul warmly. 'And, as far as I'm aware, so are your year-mates and the refugees.' Kel felt a weight lift from her shoulders. They had survived.

'Sir Nealan is out working in local villages, training healers and suchlike with his father. Owen is stationed at Mastiff currently and is due to wed Lucie of Cavall in the Spring.' Kel's heart experienced another powerful wave of joy.

It had been a hard year. Maybe not as physically tough as some of her previous years in Scanra, but mentally, carrying the responsibility of her company against overwhelming odds, the uncertainty followed by exhausting relief amid more uncertainty and the staggering realisation that she had a life beyond the war... But even ten minutes with Raoul had begun to remind her of what it was like to be happy for simple things, to care about smaller things than the fate of a country. Maybe she could even dare to dream of her own future with Dom...

The party reached Vanget's office and took up their seats one by one. A servant was already on hand, pouring pitchers of spiced apple juice and setting out trays of pastries and turnovers for a hungry traveller's benefit.

'My warriors-,' she began.

'Will be well looked after,' Lord Wyldon assured her. 'And there will be a feast tonight with you as the guests of honour.'

The fine food and drink exploded with flavour in her mouth and Kel forced herself to sit up straight, to focus. All eyes were on her as she began to tell the tale of the trip north, being smuggled into the capital, of weeks spent in Lanith's cellar before their moment came.

It took a good hour and a half for Kel to finish her verbal report, and she ended with Alex's request to have his son returned to him and the invitation for Tortallan ambassadors to be present at the coronation of Alexei, the rightful king of Scanra.

'I'll say it again Lady Knight,' said the General, 'We owe you a debt of thanks beyond what we could hope to pay.' He straightened papers on the table before him. 'Is there anything you require of us?'

Kel considered, 'My horse returned from Trebond,' she yawned. 'A bed for the night, and-' meeting Vanget's eyes, '-permission to return for the coronation.'

'I think we can manage that,' said Lord Wyldon.

Kel nodded her thanks.

'Have you thought about a more permanent posting, Kel?' asked Alanna, who'd seemed unusually distracted during the meeting.

'Whilst you'd undoubtedly be a logical choice for Scanran ambassador, we feel you've too much talent on the field to take up a diplomat's role.' Vanget informed her.

Kel nodded, unsure as to whether or not she was disappointed by this news.

'The Own would love to have you,' said Raoul. 'I can't be Knight Commander forever, and whilst I hope I've still got a few years in me yet-'

'It'd be good for you to gain experience, particularly with first and second companies.' Wyldon finished.

Raoul nodded, 'I feel I've favoured third company for too long.'

Hope was dawning somewhere in the depths of Kel's mind. She was to be offered a position doing what she did best, with the people she loved most. She offered a silent prayer of thanks to the Goddess. No more secrets, no more unfulfilled vows. Just a job as a knight. Protecting the realm.

Kel awoke in Dom's arms, a ray of sunlight streaming in across her face. Dust motes swirled lazily by and she breathed in the smell of Autumn mingled with the stronger scent of the man she loved. As content as Kel would've been to lie there for hours, she slid out of bed, pulled on some clothes and reached for Courage with a smile.

'Hello old friend,' she whispered. It had been a long time since Kel had last had the willpower or free time to carry out early morning training drills. The air was fresh, and the sun cast a soft glow across the fort. Kel allowed herself to smile, face upturned to the sun. Things were going to be alright. More than alright.

'A Prince,' stuttered Tobe, clutching his face in disbelief, quite unaware of the horsemuck that covered his hands. 'I can't be.'

Kel waited patiently, almost feeling the boys tumultuous thoughts.

'You say my father wants me to go to him, in Scanra?' Kel nodded sympathetically, this was a lot for the young boy to take in.

'But me studies,' he protested, 'Daine, that is Lady Daine the wildmage, she's been teaching me to talk to the horses!'

'There are horses in Scanra,' Kel pointed out. 'And a permanent home for you. Most of Northwatch'll be disbanded come Midwinter.'

'Why's the war have to stop?' asked Tobe, grumpily.

'Because people die in war Tobe,' said Kel sternly. 'Warriors, innocent villagers, even children like yourself. Don't you ever wish for war again.'

Chastised, the boy nodded meekly. Kel sighed, they had a long way to go.

By the time the end of September rolled around, Kel was feeling a lot more like her old self. Rest and square meals were definitely contributing factors, but the main reasons for her new found energy for life were her friends. No longer was she one woman against the world, but part of a team, and she loved it.

That's not to say the month was a holiday, Kel worked determinedly at not only her fencing, but the other neglected disciplines of jousting, hand-to-hand fighting and archery. Most of her daytime would be spent either completing paperwork with Raoul, drilling soldiers or working with Tobe.

The boy was a reluctant pupil, but respected Kel enough to attend his lessons dutifully. When she was busy, Kel had enlisted the help of Rees and Bert, who'd both been part of her mission north and knew enough Scanran to instruct the boy.

Tobe was more eager to master the sword and Kel had little trouble in holding the boy's attention during those lessons. As he fumbled through steps and passes, Kel had to remind herself that she'd not picked up a sword at the age of ten either. Once in Scanra, Tobe would have some of the very best fencers to teach him, so she was more concerned with cultural and language lessons. Most evenings, they would gather in Raoul's quarters and with Tobe serving drinks, Kel would tell Scanran stories and explain festivals to the boy, with the others listening in.

It was during one such meeting that Kel was eventually reunited with Neal. The green-eyed healer swept her into a delighted hug, apparently for once, lost for words. Kel pounded him on the back, close to tears herself. It was the first time she'd seen her friend since receiving her knighthood.

'I am so proud of you,' Neal whispered fiercely in her ear, uncharacteristically serious. He held her at arms length, 'Of all the knights I've met, of all I've read about, none Lady Knight, none have ever deserved their shield more than you.'

Kel didn't know how to respond to this, except to hug her best friend and hope, that in this hazy future she had begun to dream about, there would be plenty of time to spend with Neal of Queenscove. When the emotion of the moment had resided, they settled back into chairs, and conversation resumed until Neal suddenly clapped his hands to his forehead.

'What?' asked Dom, alarmed at his cousin.

'I forgot to say! I'm betrothed! To Yuki!'

'Congratulations!' Kel grinned broadly, whilst Dom clapped Neal's shoulder heartily. 'When did this happen?'

'It was all confirmed last week, but you were the first ones I wanted to tell! Oh, and I should go and find Lady Alanna...Say, is she alright? She was acting quite oddly when I met her earlier.'

'She's been quite distracted since spring,' Raoul replied, his brow furrowed. 'George hasn't been round much, I was presuming she was missing him.'

'Hmm.' Neal didn't look convinced, but returned to his discussion with Owen.

'Kel,' he called over ten minutes later. 'Will you be my best man, er woman?'

Kel nodded, though, not having ever been to a wedding she hadn't a clue what this role entailed.

'Excellent.'

-a/n- Next chapter will be up shortly, just a wee bit of editing to go!