Lady Nottingham's Secret: Book Two

by Lady to the Sheriff

This is the continuation of Lady Nottingham's Secret. It turned into a bit of a novel but it's almost done. Chapter 1 here is actually 56. There's new twists & excitement coming. Will the Sheriff and his lovely lady survive the ultimate test?

48. Chapter 103

It took a little bit more than half the usual amount of time for the wagon to arrive at the portcullis at Nottingham Castle.

Emory and Beric were stationed there. Luke was a bit perplexed by that, but relieved, as well, because he knew Emory would be sure to get Thomas there fast.

"Weren't you at the tavern tonight, Luke? What's going on? Where did this wagon come from?" Emory asked, curiously.

"Emory! We need Thomas!" Richard shouted as he stood up in the wagon to get Emory's attention.

"What the — " Emory began to ask, but was promptly cut off.

"You must summon Thomas Crumwell at once, Emory! It's crucial! Nigel is back there with Richard. It's bad, Emory. Fuck. Open the gate!" Luke ordered.

Beric began to raise the portcullis.

"Luke, it's fine. Thomas is already here. He had a few charges he needed to see." Emory said.

"Thank God for that! The rest of the men will be arriving soon. We must get Nigel inside. If we should somehow miss him, don't let him leave! If you see him out here, get him to Nigel's rooms, at once!" Luke directed.

Then, he guided the horses past the portcullis and quickly steered the wagon to the front entrance of the castle.

The Scribe came running into the Council Quarters to look for the Sheriff's Advisors. He stopped for a couple of seconds to catch his breath.

"Percival? What's wrong?" Robert asked, as he stood from his chair.

"It's Nigel! Luke just came tearing into the courtyard, driving a wagon. I saw Richard in the back, starting to lift Nigel out of it." the Scribe said, urgently.

"What?" Robert asked, incredulously.

"Ah! Fuck, no!" Nichol exclaimed as he quickly stood, grabbing his walking stick.

"Come. Luke and Richard will no doubt have directives for us." the Scribe said as he gestured for them to follow him.

"Thank God Thomas is already here!" Robert quietly exclaimed, as he and Nichol quickly followed after the Scribe.

"Is he? Perfect!" Nichol nodded.

Luke came running toward them, as Richard followed behind swiftly, carrying his mate. Robert, Nichol, and the Scribe let out a gasp as they noted Nigel's colour, the arrow sticking out from his abdomen, and the fact that his usual strength seemed lost to him as he lay like a limp rag doll in Richard's arms.

"What the absolute hell, Luke?" Nichol demanded.

Richard passed by them, nodding to Luke as he proceeded to carry Nigel toward the staircase. Robert, Nichol, and the Scribe couldn't help but watch as Richard moved passed them.

"We were told that Crumwell is already here. Is that true?" Luke asked.

"Yes. From what I gathered, he had a couple of charges to see, then he had a meeting scheduled with Lady Margaret." Robert said.

"Good. The Sheriff wants Lady Margaret, Mortianna, and your wife to be part of that team. He also asked me to assist those four. Do you know who the charges were that Crumwell needed to see?" Luke asked, hurriedly.

Nichol looked to Luke and shrugged. He had no idea until moments ago that the medicus was present.

"I do. I'll get on that right now, Luke. You follow Richard. Percival and I shall assemble them all in Nigel's quarters." Robert said.

Robert nodded to the Scribe and the two men began to head toward the stairs. Robert looked back to Luke.

"I'll be up in a moment. I just… need a second." Luke sighed. He looked to the floor and put his hand to his forehead.

Robert and the Scribe began to race up the stairs.

"Luke? What can I do? Are you… alright?" Nichol asked.

"You should have seen him, Nichol. He was bleeding brilliant. I've never seen anyone fight like that. He was carrying on like… some kind of super human in there, and then… "

"What, lad?" Nichol asked.

"Everything happened so fast, but then… it was in slow motion, too. The man flew out of nowhere! None of us saw him coming! He took this gigantic flying leap at the perfect moment to be… Milord's fucking shield! He took that arrow to save Milord Sheriff, Nichol! No hesitation at all. Fuck!" Luke exclaimed as angry tears formed in his eyes.

Nichol took a deep breath in and frowned. He couldn't help but think back to another time. He shook his head, trying to put that memory out of his mind. Not Nigel. This will not happen to Nigel!

"I've no doubt that given the chance, any of you would have done the same. Nigel is sharp. He saw an opportunity and acted on it." Nichol said.

"Of course, Nichol. We all swore to protect him, but seeing it in action like that… it took my breath away, to be honest. He's so fucking brave!" Luke exhaled sharply, then wiped an angry tear from his eye.

"It's understandable that affected you, lad. Everyone who witnessed it is going to be affected in some way. Put it aside, lad. You're good, too. You've a task to perform. And, Richard is going to need our help. He is Nigel's best mate." Nichol said.

"You're right. Thanks, Nichol. The rest of them shall be arriving soon." Luke said.

"I'll greet them when they arrive and let them know that Robert is assembling the professionals. I've got this."

"Good." Luke nodded. Then, he ran toward the stairs.

Isabelle was surprised when her husband came running into their chambers.

"THOMAS!" Robert shouted as he raced toward the bedchamber.

Isabelle was just coming out of the bedchamber.

"Husband? What is it? He's not here. He left here about half an hour ago." Isabelle said, looking to Robert, curiously.

"Where'd he go? To see Lady Meridwyn?" Robert asked, urgently.

"He'd already seen her. He was meeting with Lady Margaret. She's studying with him and he was planning to quiz her on her latest lessons. I'd guess he's in Lady Margaret's chambers." Isabelle shrugged.

"Quickly, wife. You look a bit pale, but, can you assist them? Milord wants you to assist. Are you able?"

"I'm fine, my love. Assist with what? What is wrong?"

"Come. Quickly, Belle!" Robert said, grabbing her hand. "I need you to help save a life!" Robert exclaimed as he swiftly guided her toward the door.

Rhiannon had just put her son down in his cradle and was wondering when Lady Margaret would be arriving to take over the baby's care for the night. She was seated in the den and was about to grab her book, when there was an urgent knock at the door.

She was surprised to see the Scribe was standing there.

"Scribe? What's going on? Is it… George?" she gasped.

"No, Milady. Forgive me. I need to summon Mortianna. Fast!"

"Very well. Come in." Rhiannon relented, holding the door for him.

She watched, bewildered, as he raced toward the heavy door in the den and opened it. Then, he hurried down the stairs.

A few moments later, the Scribe and Mortianna came racing out of there. Mortianna carried a large flask with her, and a basin with some clean towels in it.

"What's going on?" Rhiannon asked.

"It's one of the Sheriff's men, Milady. We must go. It's grave looking." the Scribe explained, then they headed out the door.

Rhiannon stood at the door, her jaw agape. Her hand flew to her mouth. What on earth just happened? She wondered.

Thomas was just finishing up with Lady Margaret in her quarters. He was pleased with her studies, and her grasp of the material she had been reading up on.

"Well done, Lady Margaret. All of your answers were accurate." Thomas smiled. He picked up his bag that was on the floor beside him, and stood from his chair.

"Thank you. I've been studying quite a bit." Lady Margaret nodded.

"It shows. You're well on your way. All you need is a bit more surgical experience. Then, we move on to more complex topics." Thomas said.

"Yes. I would guess that, more often than not, that requires me being in the right place at the right time. It's not like many of them are scheduled." Lady Margaret shrugged. She stood from her chair to see Thomas out the door.

"Indeed. How's it going over here with the wee lad?"

"It's going well. I'm heading to Milord's private chambers right now to go and get him for the night. He's a delightful child." Lady Margaret smiled. "I'll come out with you."

"Very well." Thomas nodded.

Just then, there was an urgent loud knocking on Lady Margaret's door.

"Hmm. Maybe they're bringing the child to you?" Thomas mused.

"No. Something's wrong. I mind the boy in his nursery." Lady Margaret frowned.

Thomas frowned, then gave her a knowing look, as she swiftly went to answer the knock.

She opened the door to find Robert there.

"Robert? What's going on? Is it… your nephew?" Lady Margaret asked, nervously.

"No. I need both of you to come with me. Now! Bring your bags! One of the Sheriff's men is injured. He's completely out of it, looking like he's barely hanging on. Come!" Robert urged them.

Both of them grabbed their bags and ran with Robert out of the midwife's rooms.

After asking one of the sentry for directions, Isabelle was at Nigel's door, knocking loudly.

Within seconds, Richard opened it.

"Officer Richard? What's going on?" Isabelle asked.

"Come in, Lady Isabelle. Hurry! Milord Sheriff wanted you here." Richard said as he held the door for her.

Just then, Luke arrived to the door, nearly breathless from running. Richard nodded for him to enter.

"What is it?" Isabelle asked. "All I know is Officer Nigel needs help."

"He needs urgent help! Where are Thomas and Lady Margaret?" Luke asked.

"Robert is bringing them. Is Officer Nigel in the bedchamber?" Isabelle said as she started to walk to the doors.

"Yes, Lady Isabelle. Go on inside." Richard nodded.

Isabelle headed into the bedchamber, and Richard started to follow her.

"I've got this, Richard. Everyone will be here soon. Why don't you wait out here, or on the bench in the corridor? There's one right outside these rooms." Luke suggested, gently.

"I need to be with him. At least until Thomas comes in here." Richard pleaded.

"Very well. Let's see if Lady Isabelle needs anything in the interim." Luke nodded. Then, he went to the doors and held them open for Richard.

Isabelle was at the bedside, carefully applying pressure around the arrow on Nigel's abdomen using a towel.

"Curses! It doesn't even look that deep? Why is he bleeding so much?" Isabelle asked. She quickly changed out the towel for a fresh one, tossing the saturated one to the floor.

"I'm not sure, Milady. Is he still breathing?" Luke asked, running to the bedside.

Luke quickly scanned the room and found a few more towels. He went and grabbed them, bringing them to her.

"It's slow and shallow, but he's breathing." Isabelle said.

"Fuck!" Richard exclaimed. He swiftly went to the bed and sat beside Nigel, then grasped his hand.

"Keep fighting, mate! You know you can do this! Fight!" Richard urged him.

"Luke. You've done this a time or two before. Let's get things set for Master Crumwell and Lady Margaret. These towels are useful, but we're going to need plenty of clean dry rags, and towels. Loads of them! We need fresh linens for him. A couple of basins. One filled with steaming hot water, the other to be used for hand washing. Go. Tell the servants to hurry." Isabelle directed.

Luke nodded and raced out of the bedchamber.

"Officer Richard, I need you to start lighting all of the torches in here. After that, get a fire going in that fireplace. We must keep him warm." Isabelle said.

"I don't want to leave him, Milady." Richard said.

"I know, but, this is important, Officer Richard. I'm sure that he knows you're here with him. Do this. Do this for him. It will greatly help us." Isabelle explained, gently.

"Very well." Richard relented.

He arose from the bed, and headed over toward the fireplace. His hands shook when he took the fire striker and flint rock from the mantle.

"Good. Having everything ready in here will save crucial amounts of time." Isabelle said.

Nigel began to groan, quite softly. Isabelle turned and looked upon his face.

"Officer Nigel? It is I, Lady Isabelle Wordsworth. I'm here to assist Thomas and his apprentice. And, I'm… a sort of apprentice to them both. We're going to help you." she whispered softly, and gently to him.

Just then, there was a flurry of activity as Thomas, Lady Margaret, and Robert came running into the quarters. Richard saw them as the doors to the bedchamber had been purposely left open. He motioned for them to hurry inside. Within moments of that, Mortianna entered into the chambers and reported directly to the bedchamber.

"Ah. Good. The room is being lit, and you're already applying pressure, Milady. What's the status now?" Thomas asked, as he directed Mortianna to pour wine on his hands.

"As you can see, he was hit with an arrow. His colour is poorly, his lips are a bluish colour. So are his nail beds. His breathing is shallow, but regular." Isabelle said. "As far as blood, I've gone through two towels. They're on the floor, and this is the third." she nodded to the towel she was using on Nigel that was almost ready to be tossed.

Robert couldn't help but notice how professionally his wife was handling the situation. He looked to her with pride.

"We must work fast, ladies." Thomas said. He was drying his hands and heading to the bedside.

"You see, Master Crumwell?" Isabelle nodded to the half saturated towel when he took his place beside her. "To me, that arrowhead doesn't look… as deep as you'd expect. There's a lot of blood loss, though." she pointed out.

"Good catch, Milady." Lady Margaret nodded. She joined the team on the other side of the bed.

"There's a few possibilities that could attribute to that. I'll know better once I get in." Thomas began.

Richard heard that comment as he finished getting the fire going in the fireplace. He suddenly felt quite ill and began to swallow frequently as a salty taste was forming in back of his throat. He looked to the floor with his hand to his mouth and began to breathe a bit faster than normal.

"Robert?" Thomas asked.

"Yes, Thomas?"

"I don't know where Milord is to take care of this, so you must do it. I can't wait for things I may need. Go to your sister. Tell her it's urgent I need strands of her hair again. I'm not one hundred percent certain I will need them, but I'm strongly suspecting a nicked artery in there. Her hair worked well when we used it on Milord. Give me at least five strands pulled from the root. I might need them all if my guess is accurate." Thomas explained, nodding to the area where the arrow protruded from Nigel.

Richard took a seat in a chair by the fireplace. He bent foreword and put his head between his knees. He was pondering that Milord, apparently, needed hair to be used for God knows what, as Thomas just said. When? Richard mulled this over to distract himself from the urge to retch, and trying not to pass out.

"Anything else?" Robert asked.

Thomas nodded, then looked to Isabelle.

"Is there anyone assisting us with the extraneous things we will need for Nigel?"

"Yes, Master Crumwell. Officer Luke is taking care of bringing us clean linens, plenty of rags, towels, and basins. He's doing that now." Isabelle nodded.

"That will be all, Robert. Make haste." Thomas instructed.

Robert nodded and swiftly left them.

"Well done, Lady Isabelle. You tended to him properly and got things in order for us." Thomas said.

"Thank you." Isabelle nodded.

"I'm going to take over from you now. You and Lady Margaret need to treat your hands with the alcohol in that wine Mortianna brought. I can't begin until Luke returns with our supplies. I won't touch that arrow until everything is assembled and there's plenty of rags and towels on hand. He's holding for now. You will resume applying pressure at some point soon." Thomas said.

"Very well." Isabelle nodded.

Thomas took over from her, and Lady Margaret nodded for her to follow her to where Mortianna stood. Both ladies turned from the bedside, then Lady Margaret sighed heavily.

"Oh, for pity's sake! Look at him." Lady Margaret frowned, nodding to her left.

"Ladies!" Thomas admonished them, in an effort to get them to make haste.

"I'll go to him." Isabelle said, nodding to Richard.

"We haven't time, Milady Isabelle. Nigel is our priority." the midwife said, firmly.

The two ladies walked toward Mortianna, who stood holding a large flask of wine.

Just then, Luke came into the bedchamber, directing the servants where to put the necessary items. He noticed Richard and frowned.

"Luke, we're going to need you to help him right now. We don't have the time." Lady Margaret began while she made sure the wine was completely covering her hands and wrists before reaching for a clean towel. "You're going to need to get him out into the corridor. Have a servant bring him juice. Make sure he sits and keeps his head down until he feels better." she instructed.

Luke nodded and went to Richard. He put his hand on his shoulder.

"Richard. They're about to begin. You don't want to be here for that. Let's get you out in the corridor." Luke said, softly.

"He… he wants to put hair in Nigel? I don't know what the hell he was going on about, but it doesn't sound good!" Richard exclaimed in a whisper, nodding to Thomas.

"He's very good, Richard. They all are. I've seen them all save lives before. You'd be surprised. Let's let them do what they're good at."

"Very well. But, I don't like the idea of hair being put inside my mate, even if it's Lady Rhiannon's. That sounds bloody horrible, Luke!" Richard muttered while he swallowed, dryly.

Luke guided him toward the bedchamber doors, then led him out to the corridor.

"Mortianna, when you're done pouring the wine on Isabelle's hands, you will bring my bag here. Some of the contents will be placed on a clean towel over here." Thomas directed her.

"Very well." the witch nodded.

"Lady Margaret, you will organize the surgical tools I'll be needing, for Lady Isabelle. Arrange them on the towel in the order you know I'll need them. You will be assisting me, but Lady Isabelle will pass those to me and apply pressure as needs be." Thomas said.

"Got it." the midwife said as she went to the bedside.

"Understood." Isabelle said as she dried her hands.

The Sheriff, Gisborne, and the Captain hurried into the front entrance of the castle. They soon saw Mordrid speaking to Nichol, and could see the men heading up the stairs.

"Tell me that someone is summoning Thomas. His home is closer to us, but not close enough in times like this!" the Sheriff huffed.

"He was already here, George. Apparently he had a few people to see to. Robert and the Scribe left to assemble the team as soon as Luke told them." Nichol said.

Mordrid took his leave of them and headed to the stairs.

"Good. We're going to head up there. Continue what you're doing, Nic." he said. Then, he nodded for his men to follow him.

Rhiannon sighed as she answered another knock on her door.

She opened it and found her brother standing there, breathless.

"Oh, good. It's you. Can you tell me what the hell is going on, Robert?" she demanded.

"I don't have much time to explain. It's Officer Nigel. He's been dreadfully wounded with an arrow." Robert said, too focused on his task to admonish her for her language.

"Oh, no! I only just met him three days ago. He guarded my son!"

"Indeed. It's bad, Rhiannon. He's already being tended to, but Thomas asked for strands of your hair. Remember that was used on George? Thomas suspects he'll be needing those strands once more." Robert explained.

"Oh. Of course. How many of them does he need?" Rhiannon asked, quickly loosening her braid.

"Five."

"Very well." Rhiannon nodded. She quickly pulled the strands, making a face as she did so. She counted them, then passed them to Robert.

"Perfect. Thanks, Sis." Robert said as he took them from her.

"Is Lady Margaret there to help?" she asked.

"Yes. So is Isabelle. The entire healer team is convened in there." he nodded.

"I see." she said.

"I'll talk to you later. I gotta run." Robert said, then he turned and ran from her door.

The men were all convened outside Nigel's door. Richard was seated on a bench, sipping from a goblet. Then, he held it in his hands and bent down, taking deep breaths. Luke was seen speaking to him, then he headed into Nigel's chambers. Gerad and Alex sat on either side of Richard, quietly talking to him. Mordrid was crouched down in front of Richard, trying to calm him.

The Sheriff observed this as he quickly approached Nigel's rooms.

"Alright, I know you're all concerned. But, you will keep it quiet out here." he instructed them.

"Of course, Milord." Ancel said.

The rest of the men nodded, except for Richard who was unable to.

"I'm not even going to ask what's going on there." the Sheriff sighed, nodding to Richard. "But, I trust you men got it handled. Watch him. Don't let him in Nigel's rooms." he said.

"Understood, Milord." Gerad said.

"We'll see to him, Milord." Alex nodded.

"Is Thomas in there?" he asked.

"Yes, Milord. Luke said they're all in there. They're about to begin. They have all the necessary supplies." Ancel nodded.

"Good." he said. Then, he looked to Guy and the Captain. "You stay out here, Gis. We can't have you retching in there while they're trying to work. You, too, Duke. You will make sure these men keep it down out here. If they can't do that, they must go to their rooms, or somewhere else well out of the way."

"Of course, Milord." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

"That's quite fine with me." Guy said.

The Sheriff nodded, then headed inside the door of Nigel's chambers.

He went to the doorway of the bedchamber and peered inside. It looked like Lady Margaret was holding something in her hand, pushing flesh away from where Thomas was working. Isabelle was changing out rags, and passing gleaming metal tools to him; while the witch stood near to them all, holding a torch.

"I need a bit more of an incision. Right here, Lady Margaret." Thomas pointed with his free hand as the other applied pressure.

"You can't… just pull it out?" Isabelle asked.

"No. Not quite yet. I need to know what I'm dealing with in there." he said. Then, he addressed the witch. "Hold that torch closer, Mortianna." Thomas directed her.

The witch held the torch a bit closer to the area. Lady Margaret began to cut, while Thomas held the arrow to support it.

"Thomas? How is he?" the Sheriff asked as he moved a couple of steps into the bedchamber.

"He's hanging on, but he's bleeding like a stuck swine, Milord. And, I can't figure out why."

"Seriously? He has an arrow in his gut, Thomas! Are you fit to handle this?" Nottingham demanded.

"Of course, he does, Milord. But, the depth and positioning of that arrow should not be yielding the amount of blood loss we're seeing. I'm about to get inside there to see what we're dealing with." Thomas explained.

"I see." the Sheriff said.

"I've summoned for some strands of Lady Rhiannon's hair. Robert is taking care of that. I might need them again." Thomas added, matter of factly.

"Excuse me? What do you mean by that? And, what do you mean by… again?"

"They were used on you, Milord. I used her hair to repair damage inside of you a fortnight ago. It was better than anything I had on hand. She helped save your life, Milord." Thomas said. Then, he looked down to Nigel's abdomen. "Make that incision a tiny bit longer, Lady Margaret. We mustn't cause more damage to him when I remove that cursed arrowhead. Keep going. That's it. Right down past the muscle."

Nottingham started to feel nauseous at that last bit of commentary from Thomas about cutting into Nigel's muscle.

"If he's already bleeding, why the hell are you cutting more?" the Sheriff demanded.

"It's easier to quickly repair this incision that Lady Margaret is making than to just pull that arrow out. This allows me to remove it easier with less damage to him, and better see what needs doing inside there." Thomas said. "Why don't you step outside?" he gently suggested.

Just then, Robert came into the bedchamber.

"The five hair strands, Thomas." Robert announced as he approached him.

"Good. Place them on this towel on the bed where we have the other necessary implements at the ready." Thomas said.

Robert nodded and proceeded as directed.

"Luke, we need more clean towels and rags." Isabelle said.

"Got it." Luke said.

The Sheriff noticed that Luke looked a bit pale. He walked over to him.

"Are you alright, lad?" he whispered.

"Just… very worried. I'm fine, Milord. I'll take a break when it's safe to, and maybe Robert can step in then for a few minutes, if that's alright with you?" Luke asked, quietly. He picked up the towels and rags.

"Of course, Luke. I'm going to step outside the chambers and check on Richard. I'll give it some time, then I'll return for an update."

"Very well." Luke nodded.

"Luke! The towels and rags! We need plenty of them." Lady Margaret said, urgently.

"Right here, Lady Margaret." Luke assured her. He swiftly went to the bed and held them out. They were contained in a clean basin so that he wouldn't need to touch them.

Isabelle grabbed them from him and began using a couple of rags to mop the blood.

"How many have we went through?" Thomas asked as he was beginning to loosen the arrowhead from Nigel's tissues.

"Four towels and ten rags, Master Crumwell." Isabelle said.

"Damn it. He's just… oozing constantly in there, even with pressure. What in the devil?" Thomas sighed, shaking his head.

"That's what I'm saying, Master Crumwell." Isabelle nodded.

"Yes. I'm probably going to need that hair. Hold that flesh back, Lady Margaret." Thomas directed.

The Sheriff began to feel queasy again.

"I'll leave you to it, and come back shortly." the Sheriff said.

"That would be wise." Thomas said, without looking up at him.

The Sheriff headed out of the bedchamber and toward the door.

Once he was out in the corridor, he went over to the bench nearby where Richard sat. This time he was sitting normally, and sipping from his goblet.

"What's in that goblet, Richard?" the Sheriff asked, curiously.

"It's juice, Milord. Lady Margaret suggested it when I was about to pass out in there, listening to their banter as I lit the torches." Richard sighed.

"Indeed. Listening to them confer while they're working is definitely jarring, I would agree. Now, once they've got him a bit more stable in there, I'm going to need you to be strong."

"Of course, Milord. I will try. Strong for… what?" Richard asked.

"We're going to see Nigel's lady friend. If they've been together as long as he said, she should know." the Sheriff sighed. He hated having to deliver news like this.

"Of course, Milord. That's… going to be awful." Richard said softly, exhaling sharply.

"Also, doesn't Nigel have a father and brother who live not far from here, or am I wrong? They need to know, too."

"Yes, Milord. Nigel is originally from Nottingham, but a couple of years ago his father moved closer to Nettlestone. He is a medicus." Richard said, casually.

"Wait. What? You're telling me Nigel's father is a medicus? Like… Thomas, you mean?" the Sheriff asked, incredulously.

"Yes, Milord. From what I understand, he's very good, too. He lives between Nottingham and Nettlestone, as far as I know." Mordrid interrupted.

"I've heard that about him, too, Milord. About how good he is. Word of mouth around town." Gerad added.

"That's correct, Milord." Richard nodded.

"I better let Thomas know. Does Nigel have other family?" he asked.

"He has a sister who is married and lives in London. His mother has passed on. His brother, Noah, helps his father with his practice." Richard said.

"Do you know where I can find them?"

"Yes, Milord. I've been to their home." Richard nodded.

"Good. Is this… Lady Aeleanna closer to us?"

"Yes, Milord. Very close. Maybe four miles from this castle. At the most." Richard said.

"Alright. We will inform them both. We'll see his father first, and drop by to see Nigel's lady friend on the way back, while his father continues here without us. Do you know Nigel's father's given name? I'm going to inform Thomas of this, and ask if he wants his assistance." the Sheriff explained.

"Yes, Milord. His name is Leofwin." Richard nodded.

"Good. Drink that juice, Richard. Try to keep yourself calm." Nottingham said, then he went back to the door and stepped back inside the chambers.

The Sheriff went to the bedchamber and stood in the doorway.

"Damn it! Thread that hair for me, Lady Margaret." Thomas directed.

The midwife nodded and performed her task, as Isabelle was applying pressure. Mortianna held the torch close to them, and Luke stood by the fireplace, awaiting instruction.

"Thomas? I've some information that might interest you." the Sheriff said.

"Oh. Does it pertain to something he's been ingesting to thin his blood like this? This is madness." Thomas muttered.

"Richard and I plan to inform Nigel's father of what has happened." the Sheriff began.

"You don't need my permission to do that, Mil — "

"Nigel's father is a medicus." he announced.

"What?" Thomas asked, looking up briefly. Then, he went back to work. "What's his name, Milord? Maybe I know him and just never knew his son was one of your men."

"Leofwin Rainecourt." the Sheriff said.

"Oh, my! Leofwin? I do know him. He's very good, Milord. I tried to talk him into staying in town, but he wanted a somewhat quieter life. It was hard on him after his wife died. Damn it!" Thomas sighed.

"Would you like his help?"

"I'd be very pleased to have his assistance, Milord. Leofwin is brilliant. But, first of all, he's in Nettlestone, is he not?"

"Between here and Nettlestone, Thomas." the Sheriff said.

"Alright, That could work. There's just one other problem." Thomas sighed.

"What is that?" Nottingham asked.

"Nigel is his son. Leofwin is very good at what he does, but, I can't imagine working on my son at a time like this. It makes it very difficult to set emotion aside to get the job done." Thomas explained.

Lady Margaret handed him the needle that was threaded with Lady Rhiannon's hair strand. Thomas took it and began to sew.

"If he's that good, Master Crumwell, perhaps you should consider?" Lady Margaret suggested.

"It's your call, Thomas." the Sheriff said.

"Alright. Let's give Leofwin the option. Tell him there's quite a bit of blood loss, but we've got some control of that now. Some. Not all. Tell him I'm repairing a blood vessel using hair strands. After that, we'll be able to begin closing him. Be sure to tell him that Nigel is holding on. He's unconscious, mercifully, but he's breathing. It's shallow and regular so far." Thomas said.

"That is correct. He's still maintaining his breathing." Lady Margaret nodded.

"Very well." the Sheriff nodded. He took a couple of deep breaths to stay the nausea, then he quickly took his leave.

Nottingham began issuing directives once he closed the door of Nigel's rooms.

"Ancel. Mordrid. You two are going to proceed downstairs in about thirty minutes. You're to greet Leofwin Rainecourt when he arrives, and show him to Nigel's rooms. We're giving him the option to assist. Thomas says he's brilliant, so, that's a plus." the Sheriff said.

"Of course, Milord." Mordrid nodded.

"We will be there, Milord." Ancel said.

"Good." the Sheriff nodded to them both. Then, he looked to Richard. "Come, Richard. We need to ride like the wind. We'll see Nigel's father first. We'll direct him here, then we must go to see Lady Aeleanna."

"Very well, Milord." Richard nodded. He stood from the bench.

"Do you want any others to accompany you, Milord?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"No. Everyone stay here." the Sheriff instructed.

He nodded to Richard and the two swiftly made their way toward the staircase.

Lady Rhiannon had just finished with her warm compress application. She was fastening the buttons on the bodice of her gown, when she heard a soft thud, coming from the bedchamber. Within moments, there was a small cry.

"Good thing you're so sweet, boy." she muttered inaudibly, to herself.

Soon, she found the reason for his protestations.

"Alright, darling. Hush now. I see it. You'll have it in a second. The world isn't ending, sweet boy." she smiled as she swiftly advanced to the cradle.

A moment later, she handed him the teddy toy.

The child settled and held his precious teddy to him — and began to gently chew on the ears. He looked up to her and grinned.

"My goodness, you're an amusing boy, aren't you, my son? Don't know where you got that from. Neither of us have… a huge sense of humour. Hmm… perhaps your Uncle Robert? No. What the hell am I saying? He sounded like a Priest at your sister's burial."

The boy looked up to her, still chewing on the ears of his teddy. Then, he began to giggle as he hugged it.

"Yes. Definitely not your Uncle Robert. He's the most boring and serious of us all. Perhaps… Uncle Guy? Or… do we refer to him as Uncle Sir Guy? Or… Sir Uncle Guy?" Rhiannon frowned as she pontificated that matter.

"Oh!" the boy laughed.

Then, she smiled when it came to her.

"Of course, darling. It was your Uncle Edward who passed that humour to you. He was light hearted. That may have been to his detriment." Rhiannon sighed. Then, she looked to the child and nodded. "Perfect. You are named in his honour."

The child pulled himself up, holding on to the cradle with one hand and the other hand held the teddy out to her.

"Yes, darling. We're going to see Auntie Meridwyn in a few moments. It's good timing. Both of our husbands are busy, and she's cooped up in her bedchamber." she smiled as she picked up the baby.

She walked him to the wall and stood at the window, looking down toward the courtyard. The waxing moon bathed the already torchlit front property in soft blue light. Within a few moments she saw her husband upon his midnight black steed, along with one of his men. Together, they guided their horses toward the portcullis.

"Hmm. That's your father down there. Wonder where he's headed? That's rather odd?" Rhiannon frowned.

"Fah!" the child laughed.

"Yes. You shall see him later. Come. This is the best time. We're between warm compresses, massage, and feeding you using a cup, me… and a damn dropper." Rhiannon sighed.

The men were huddled outside the door of Nigel's chambers, quietly talking. Some were seated on the bench, most were standing; and, Guy and Duke Farnsworth stood close by.

Luke had everyone's attention when he opened the door and stepped out of it.

"Is Nigel… " Gerad started to ask, but then couldn't complete the question.

"He's hanging on. Thomas sent me out here to ask you all something." Luke said.

"What is it, lad?" Guy asked.

"Do any of you know… does Nigel eat or drink anything that most people would consider… unusual?" Luke asked.

"I can't think of anything. On the occasions we had tea up north, he liked to put cinnamon in it, which Richard and I found a bit strange. But, it's not like he was drinking that constantly." Duke Farnsworth said with a shrug.

"Hmm. I can't think of anything." Gerad frowned.

"I've never noticed anything like that about him, Luke?" Drake shrugged.

"I don't know, either, Luke. Richard would probably have the best sense of that. Why is Thomas asking?" Adam asked, curiously.

"He thinks Nigel must be eating or drinking something that has thinned his blood. It's… difficult for them to control the bleeding." Luke sighed.

"Fuck!" Gerad exclaimed.

"I'm sure it will improve if Thomas has started to sew in there?" the Captain postulated.

"He has done most of the repairs, Captain. Nigel keeps… oozing blood." Luke said, softly.

"Blood of my blood." Duke Farnsworth said, softly. He looked downcast and frowned, while quickly genuflecting.

"God's nightgown. I hope his father gets here fast!" Guy muttered.

The ladies we're visiting in the Gisbornes' bedchamber. Rhiannon was seated on a chair. Meridwyn was seated on the bed against several pillows, and the baby was seated on the bed with her, playing with his teddy and rattle.

"I'm so happy you came by, Rhi. Our men must be still occupied wherever they were going. Normally, I wouldn't notice that as much, but being stuck in this room is making me a bit cagey." Meridwyn sighed.

"They're back. Well, George was. He just left with one of his men. You haven't seen Sir Guy, I take it?" Rhiannon asked.

"No. If he's here, I had no idea."

"We might not see them for awhile yet. Something terrible happened. One of the men was badly injured."

"Oh, my God! Whom, Rhiannon?" Meridwyn asked.

"Officer Nigel."

"Oh, right. I know whom you mean. He's on the low end of tall, broad, muscled, his hair falls to his shoulders, with or without braids. He's… kind of a dish, to be honest." Meridwyn smirked. Then, she frowned. "He's one of the best of them, from what I've gathered. Damn! That's awful to hear."

"Indeed. He guarded my son for two months. That tells me how much George trusted him, right there." Rhiannon sighed.

"Indeed. I hope they were able to catch Thomas while he was here."

"Yes. The entire team is tending to him, including Isabelle. That much I got from my brother when he came by asking for strands of my hair."

"Like… what was used for George." Meridwyn said.

"Indeed. I hope it works as well for Officer Nigel. I suppose you're right about one thing. He is quite attractive. Not that I noticed, or anything." Rhiannon smirked, then sighed.

"We might be married, but we're not dead, honey. We can still look. Sometimes, one just cannot help but notice. Kind of like… with men like Nigel. Come to think of it, a number of the Black Knights are quite easy on the eyes. Gerad, Drake… "

"Yes, I know what you mean. The newest recruit is like that, too. Same with Nichol. Anyway, it sounds like it's… not good. Which is why I was surprised to see George leaving. Kind of a weird time for him to leave the property when one of his Knights is being worked on." Rhiannon shrugged.

"Oh. Oh… dear." Meridwyn frowned.

"What is it, Meridwyn?"

"He's Nigel's employer. He's also the Sheriff. He's… probably giving notification to Nigel's family."

"Oh, my! I never even thought of that. How silly of me. Oh, no. That's not good. I hope they can help him." Rhiannon said.

"Me too." Meridwyn nodded.

The baby was chewing on the ears of his teddy as the other hand shook the rattle. He began to giggle.

"You're just the sweetest wee boy ever. I'm glad you are here to visit. Auntie has missed you, sweetness." Meridwyn smiled.

Nottingham was glad that Richard was familiar with the location of Nigel's father's home, as it saved them quite a bit of time on their travels. They'd been riding for half an hour when Richard got his attention.

"That's it, Milord. Just ahead, up on that hill, to the left." Richard said, pointing to it.

"That looks rather larger than average." the Sheriff remarked.

"Yes. Nigel's father runs a successful practice, Milord." Richard nodded.

"Yes. So, it would seem."

A short time later, they walked up the cobblestone path to the door of the beautiful stone manor, which the Sheriff noticed featured perfectly manicured lawns at the front, and gardens which were now dormant.

The Sheriff used the iron ring on the door, then he moved to the side so that Master Rainecourt would see Richard first, since he was familiar with Richard.

The door opened, and Leofwin Rainecourt smiled.

"Oh. Richard! How nice to see you, even though it's a trifle late in the day. Is my son with you?"

"Uh… no, Master Rainecourt, he's — "

"Oh. I get it. You're here to ask about Nigel's birthday. Yes. It's coming up in three days time." Leofwin smiled. "Why are you being so formal, lad? Didn't I tell you to call me by my given name last time you two came by?"

"Right. Yes. Uh… forgive me." Richard stammered.

The Sheriff moved into view and stood beside Richard.

"Milord Sheriff?" Leofwin asked, curiously. Then, he sighed. "Oh. Of course. You're finally getting around to telling me my son is dead. Sure took you long enough — since he hasn't been seen or heard from in half a blessed year!" he frowned, shaking his head.

"No. Nigel is not dead. He was away on a very important mission, with Richard. They just returned three nights ago. But, we need to talk to you about something that happened earlier tonight." the Sheriff began as gently as he could.

"Oh. I see. Come inside, Milord. Richard. There's a terrible chill out here." Leofwin nodded, then held the door for them.

Once the door was closed, the Sheriff looked to Nigel's father. He couldn't help but notice the strong resemblance between the two. Leofwin Rainecourt was slightly taller, and lean. Had the same colour hair, but it was kept short and had some tinges of grey to it. Everything else was the same. Same eyes. Same features. Similar mannerisms and voice. The Sheriff took in a breath, then spoke.

"Forgive me, Master Rainecourt. I must be brief… for the sake of your son. Nigel was shot with an arrow earlier. He was taken back to the castle immediately, where my personal physician and two other healers are working on him right now. You know my medicus."

"Yes. Tom. Thank God for that. He's very good." Leofwin said, then he looked down, frowning, and put his palm to his forehead.

"Thomas wanted to give you the option to assist. He said the same about you." the Sheriff said.

"That… doesn't sound good if he needs my assistance, Milord. Did Tom have any sort of report he gave to you to relay to me?"

"Yes. He said to inform you that there's been quite a bit of blood loss, but they've managed to control some of that. He was repairing a… blood… something or other with hair strands, and then he expects to finish up."

"My boy!" Leofwin exclaimed in a whisper.

He walked over to an ornate desk, close to where they stood which was just outside the sitting room. He quickly penned a note and left it on the desk, then grabbed a leather bag that was sitting there. He looked to the Sheriff.

"Anything else? Is my son breathing well through all of this?"

"Yes. Thomas asked me to relay that, too. He's unconscious, but maintaining his breathing. It's shallow and regular, Thomas said." the Sheriff explained. "It's your choice if you wish to assist. I realize that will be difficult — "

"If I've a chance to save my son, I will do it. I'm ready, Milord. Are you two escorting me there?" Leofwin asked as he took his surcoat from a hook by the door.

"No. You're going to ride ahead of us. The men at the portcullis are expecting you, and more of them are waiting inside the castle to show you to Nigel's rooms, where he is being tended to." the Sheriff explained.

"You're not coming? Kind of a strange time for you to be absent, is it not?" Leofwin asked, while quickly donning his surcoat.

"Richard and I are going to speak to Lady Aeleanna."

"That girl is blessed saint. Six years he's been stringing her along! I keep telling him he needs to marry her. They should have been married years ago." Leofwin sighed.

"I don't think he's stringing her along, Sir." Richard said. "He deeply cares for her."

"Then, why the hell has he not put a ring on her finger? I can't conceive of what the damn problem is? Our whole family loves her. Even my grand babies love her." Leofwin frowned, shaking his head.

"You know Nigel, Sir." Richard shrugged.

"My boy is as sharp as a whip, but obtuse when it comes to things like that. He could have easily followed in my footsteps. I wanted that for him. He was more than capable of succeeding at it. But he's… too energetic, and adventurous. A very physical sort. I've no idea where he got that from." Leofwin said.

"He's easily the best warrior of my Black Knights." the Sheriff said.

"Well, I'm glad that's working out for him. Except… looks like tonight it did not." Leofwin sighed.

"I think you should know that… he took that arrow to protect me. He put himself in the path of it, moving at lightning speed, to protect me. He didn't lose a fight, Master Rainecourt." Nottingham said, softly.

"He was so damn fast, none of us saw him coming." Richard added. He shook his head and frowned.

Leofwin Rainecourt felt tears welling in his eyes. He sighed, and subtly bit his lip to control them.

"My son… " he whispered. "He's going to be the death of me — acting the damn hero. Damn it! Forgive me. Thank you for telling me. I best make haste."

"Indeed." Nottingham agreed.

"Where was he shot, Milord? I've already guessed it couldn't have been his chest."

"In his abdomen." the Sheriff said.

"I see. Please tell me it didn't… go all the way through him?"

"No. There's no concern there." the Sheriff said.

"Good. Thank God the archer isn't as good a shot as my boy! That's good that Tom is utilizing a relatively new technique to repair blood vessels, too. I just hope it holds." Leofwin sighed. He picked up his bag then opened the door.

"He used that same technique on me a fortnight ago, Master Rainecourt. As you can see, it proved successful." Nottingham nodded.

"I'm glad to hear that, Milord. And, that is encouraging. Thank you. Also, you may address me by my given name. My son respects you. That tells me everything I need to know." Leofwin said.

"Very well." the Sheriff nodded.

The three left the Rainecourt manor and went to their horses.

Leofwin Rainecourt rode fast as lightning toward Nottingham Castle. He was good with horses, and as far as he was concerned, it was one of the few things he shared in common with his son. He insisted on it. He didn't want to rely on anyone else driving him in a carriage when he was needed imminently. He was making quicker time than the Sheriff and Richard. They were a quarter mile away from Lady Aeleanna's manor, when Leofwin slowed his horse near the portcullis. He dismounted and walked his horse toward the men standing guard.

"Good even, Officers. I'm Leofwin Rainecourt. I am — "

"Nigel's father. Pleased to meet you, Sir. Except, I hate the reason why. I'm Emory." Emory said, with a bow of his head.

"I'm Beric, Sir. You may proceed. Make haste." Beric said. Then, he raised the portcullis.

"I'll take your horse to the stables, Sir. You go on. They're expecting you." Emory said, taking the reins from him.

Leofwin nodded. He took his leather bag with him, then quickly made his way to the front entrance.

Two men stepped out of the door as he was approaching it.

"Leofwin Rainecourt?" Mordrid asked.

"Yes. I'm not just here to see my son. Tom summoned for me." he said. Then, he noted their bewildered expressions, and continued. "Right. You probably know him as Thomas. I'm a medicus, too. I'm here to assist and… work on my son." Leofwin said.

"Of course, Master Rainecourt. Come with us. My name is Ancel. Your son is the most brilliant fighter I've ever seen. We're going to take you to his rooms now." Ancel said.

"Indeed. I'm Mordrid, by the way. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

"He spoke of you. They both did. Nigel and Richard. They hold you in high esteem." Leofwin said to Mordrid, matter of factly.

"They… do?" Mordrid asked, quite surprised to hear this.

"Indeed. Cursed lad! Trying to act like a damn hero! Once he pulls through I'm having a stern discussion with him about a couple of matters!" Leofwin sharply exhaled, then looked to them both. "I'm ready now. Take me to my son, men."

The Sheriff and Richard had secured their horses, and were making their way to the path leading to the door of the tenth century stone manor.

"This has… such a creepy sense to it." Richard muttered.

"This is never easy, Richard." the Sheriff reminded him, quietly.

"It's not that, Milord. It's something Nigel told me that happened to him this morning. It concerned him. And, I brushed it off and told him not to think of it." Richard whispered.

"What happened?"

"He told me when he awoke this morning, a raven was perched on his window ledge, looking straight at him for a few moments before it flew away. Nigel said he felt like the raven was trying to communicate a warning. Maybe… he was right?" Richard shuddered.

"That is peculiar. However, you must put that out of your mind, lad. We've a task to perform, and I've a funny feeling it's not going to… go very well." he sighed.

"Of course, Milord. And, I would agree."

Moments later, Richard knocked on the door.

Within a minute or two, the door opened.

"Richard? What are you doing here? I was expecting Nigel." Aeleanna asked, curiously, as she pulled her soft cashmere shawl close around her, covering her purple velvet gown. She began to scan the area.

Then, she saw the Sheriff as he moved in closer and stood beside Richard.

Lady Aeleanna's colour turned ashen, as her countenance changed to a frown, then a look of pure horror. She put a hand to her bosom.

"No! NO! He cannot be dead. Not my Nigel!" she gasped.

"Lady Aeleanna — " the Sheriff started to say, but was cut off.

"NIGEL!" Aeleanna shrieked, in a gut wrenching wail.

She held onto the doorframe to steady herself, but she began to falter.

"Milady Aeleanna!" Richard shouted, when she began to collapse. He reached out and held her, then was picking her up to carry her inside.

"Satan's teeth!" Nottingham huffed.

"I'll take her to the sitting room, Milord. If I recall, there's a sofa in there. I'm sure she'll come around soon." Richard explained.

"Let us hope." the Sheriff sighed.

Mordrid and Ancel took Leofwin to Nigel's rooms. Leofwin was moved to see so many of Nigel's comrades gathered outside of the door, awaiting word on his status. Under normal circumstances, he would have introduced himself to them, but there was no time to squander.

Within moments, he slowly walked into the bedchamber. He took in a breath when he saw his son laying motionless on the bed, his colour pallid. He took a few more breaths to calm him, then approached.

"Curses, Son!" Leofwin exclaimed in a whisper as he grasped Nigel's hand. He narrowed his eyes a moment, taking in Nigel's lined eyes, the long cross drawn on his cheek, and an ear bob attached to his earlobe. He shook his head, then he looked to Thomas. "You haven't closed him, I see, Tom."

"He's still oozing for some peculiar reason. We've got pressure on it." Thomas said.

Leofwin nodded, then turned and walked toward Luke. He set his bag down on a table, then directed Luke to pour wine on his hands.

Luke did so, and couldn't help but notice how much Nigel looked and sounded like his father.

"Are you a man servant, or do you work here in another capacity, lad?" Leofwin asked.

"I'm one of Milord's top men. A Black Knight, like Nigel. I'm Luke."

"I see you have peculiar face paint applied to your skin, as well?" Leofwin remarked, curiously.

"We were both on assignment earlier. Our look was part of our disguise." Luke explained.

"No wonder he got shot if he had to resort to such lengths to complete his task. I thought I noticed something about Richard, too. And, Officer Ancel. No doubt, you men were not meeting up with noblemen — not looking like that, you weren't." Leofwin sighed.

"With respect, I can't discuss the details, Master Rainecourt."

"Of course. Thank you for assisting, Luke." Leofwin said.

Luke smiled and passed him a clean towel.

"How long have you been working on him?" Leofwin asked Thomas, as he began to dry his hands.

"Just over an hour. I finished repairing close to half an hour ago I would guess." Thomas said.

"How many rags have you been through?"

"What's the count now, Lady Isabelle?" Thomas asked.

"Twenty rags and four towels. Two of those towels were completely saturated." Isabelle nodded.

"Who are these ladies, Tom?" Leofwin asked as he approached the bedside. He stood beside Lady Margaret.

"They're both qualified to assist, Leofwin. I'll expound on their experience later." Thomas said.

"Very well. Move that rag out of the way and let me see what we're dealing with." Leofwin said.

Lady Aeleanna was out for close to ten minutes. She felt a cool damp cloth being held to her forehead. Her long eyelashes began to flutter as she slowly opened then.

It was Richard who was holding the cool cloth to her. He was seated on a chair beside the sofa. The Sheriff stood beside Richard. She looked at them both, and tears formed in her eyes. Then, she began to silently weep.

"Nigel. My love… " she whispered.

"Lady Aeleanna, Nigel is not dead. He's been injured, and he's being tended to right now." the Sheriff said.

Aeleanna pulled a handkerchief from the pocket of her skirt. Then, she began to slowly sit up and dab at her ice blue eyes.

"What… happened? May I see him, Milord Sheriff?"

"From what I've heard about you from people who matter — yes, Milady. You must calm yourself first. We shall escort you to the castle. Once the team is finished working on him, we'll take you in to see him." he said.

"I thank you, Milord." then she looked to Richard. "We're you with him when… whatever happened?"

"Yes. We both were." Richard said.

She looked downcast and shook her head, still dabbing her eyes.

"What happened to him?" she asked, softly. Then, she blew her nose.

"He was hit with an arrow." the Sheriff said.

"And, you're sure he's alive?"

"He was when we left." he said.

Aeleanna nodded, then looked to Richard with fear in her eyes.

"Oh, my God, Richard! It's like… Nigel knew!" she exclaimed.

"What?" Richard asked.

"What do you mean, Lady Aeleanna?" the Sheriff asked, curiously.

"He was here. He came by very briefly in the afternoon. He said he had to get back to the training area, then get ready for a meeting, and then he said there was a venture he needed to partake in, or something. He never comes by during the day, not unless it's his day off." Aeleanna explained.

"What do you mean by… he knew?" the Sheriff asked.

"He came to talk to me. He wasn't making sense at first. Then, he said he loves me. That he always has. Next, he said the most chilling thing to me that frightened me half to death!"

"What was it?" Richard asked.

"These were his words, verbatim. He said, "Whatever happens, know this: you were loved." Can you imagine? He acted like he expected something terrible would happen to him. I've been worried sick ever since!" she cried.

"Curses!" Richard muttered. He looked downcast and sighed.

"Do not fret, Milady. I have two physicians with him, and there's two other skilled apprentices in there helping them. All are right at the bedside. Another is there to get the team things they may require." a beat. "One of those physician's is Nigel's father." Nottingham reassured her.

"Oh, my! Master Rainecourt is there? Oh, thank heavens! He's amazing. I just hope he can cope with that." Aeleanna frowned.

"Are you alright to stand, my lady? We must get you there." the Sheriff asked.

"Yes. I'm a bit reassured that so many talented professionals are helping him. Thank you, Milord."

"I know you're a skilled rider, but you can ride with me on my horse. It might be easier for you at a time like this." Richard offered.

"Thank you. I think that would be best, Richard. I still feel a bit unsteady." she said.

Richard helped her to stand. She stopped a moment to dab at her eyes, then she put the handkerchief back.

"I'm telling you, Richard. He was talking madness earlier. It was so unlike him! I've known him many years. We knew each other before he started courting me. He was seriously acting like he expected he might… die, or something! That is not my Nigel!" she said, emphatically, shaking her head.

"No. It's… not the Nigel we know, either." Richard sighed.

"Can you gentlemen give me a moment? I need to grab something from my room. I'll just be a moment."

"Yes. We'll wait right here, my lady." the Sheriff said.

She nodded, then headed up to her room.

"Sweet Jesus, Milord! Did you hear that? He told me he felt unsettled off and on throughout the day. He mentioned a sense of foreboding once, but, I think he was trying to shrug it off, too." Richard said, quietly.

"Indeed. Between what you told me, and what the lady said he told her, the whole damn thing is disturbing, I'll say that much for it. She's right. That is not our Nigel." Nottingham sighed, shaking his head.

"I feel like the worst mate ever. I should have paid more attention to what he was trying to tell me. He was… a bit worried about that, and I told him to forget about it."

"He might have been concerned about that, but Nigel acted fearlessly, Richard. Now, it's you who must try to put these things out of your mind. He cannot die. He's too damn good to die!"

"You're right, Milord." Richard nodded.

Lady Aeleanna came back into the room. She had put her hair up, they noticed.

"Alright. I'm ready now. I wanted to put my hair up, since it would just be in the way, and grab a couple of clean handkerchiefs. I tossed the other one." she said.

She walked toward the door, and they followed her. Then, she grabbed her cape from a hook by the front door. Richard helped her to don her cape, then they all headed out the door.

It was about twenty minutes later when they arrived back to the castle. The men guided the horses close to the stables. They both dismounted, then Richard helped the lady to dismount. The Sheriff passed off the horses to Gervase, instructing him to take them inside the stables, feed and water them.

Soon, they entered the castle. Nichol was close by, watching for them. He walked toward them.

"Milady. I'm Nichol Burgess. I've worked alongside Nigel for many years. It's good to meet you." Nichol nodded.

"He's spoken of you, Nichol. His former Captain, and now, you're the Weapon's Specialist… or some such thing, and you advise Milord. Am I correct?" Aeleanna asked genuinely, looking to both Nichol and the Sheriff.

"I like that, Nic. Weapon's Specialist." Nottingham said softly, while grinning and giving a knowing look to his friend.

Nichol gave a brief smirk, then looked to the comely, blue eyed lady.

"Yes, Milady. That is correct." Nichol nodded.

"I'm pleased to meet you." she said.

"Likewise." Nichol smiled.

"Where's Robert?" the Sheriff asked.

"He's upstairs. He went to see if Luke needed a reprieve." Nichol said.

"I see." he frowned. He knew that meant the team helping Nigel were still at it, even with an extra physician present. Curses!

A short time later, he and Richard were escorting her toward Nigel's rooms. He frowned when he saw the men gathered there. He'd forgotten about that point.

The men quickly introduced themselves to her. Afterward, she was speaking to Richard, and the Sheriff utilized the moment to address his men, quietly.

"Alright, men. Give them some space. Don't crowd around her, she's overwhelmed as it is. Am I clear?" he demanded, quietly.

All of them nodded in agreement.

The Sheriff turned toward Richard.

"Richard. Why don't you sit with Lady Aeleanna on the bench? I shall return soon."

"Very well." Richard nodded.

The two took their places on the bench, then the Sheriff nodded for Guy to follow him.

Once they were far enough away from the others, Guy spoke.

"Am I to report to Nichol?" Guy asked.

"No. I need you and Meridwyn to look after my son."

"What? At a time like this? Are you seriously about to take her… right now? You can't be bloody serious, Cous — "

"Of course, not, Gis! Satan's teeth! Just trust me." he huffed.

They first checked his private chambers. The Sheriff found them to be empty, so they headed to Guy's chambers, since they couldn't think of anywhere else Rhiannon would take the baby.

They soon entered into the chambers, and Guy gestured for him to follow him to the bedchamber.

Guy opened the doors and found the two ladies to be visiting, while the baby was playing with his toys on the bed.

"Is everything alright now? Rhiannon just told me. Robert told her when he obtained hair strands from her." Meridwyn explained.

"He's still being worked on. I'm going to need you and your husband to watch my son for a short while." the Sheriff said.

Lady Rhiannon stood from the chair.

"What? You know that's not feasible right now, George. It's nearly his feeding time." Rhiannon argued, nodding to the baby.

"Wife. I couldn't give a flying rat's bald arse what time of day it is. One of these two shall feed him his goat's milk from a damn cup. He won't die because of it." Nottingham huffed.

"Why? What will we be doing?" Rhiannon pressed.

"I need a lady, someone I can trust, to sit with Nigel's lady. She's completely outnumbered, surrounded by men, while she waits just outside his door. I'm going to be in and out of Nigel's rooms. His father is fond of the lady, but he cannot comfort her, either. He is a medicus, and he's currently assisting in there. Every other lady I trust is occupied, except for Meridwyn, but she cannot leave this chamber. Instead, we must trust them with our son. Nigel's lady friend needs a woman's touch." the Sheriff explained.

"I see. Hmm. Must be bad if you've brought his family here." she frowned.

"Thomas knows Nigel's father. We gave him the option of assisting, and he insisted on coming to help. Nigel has been with his lady for six years. Nigel's father adores her and is chagrined they haven't wed. So, that's why the two of them are here. Come. It won't be for long, hopefully." he urged her.

"Very well." Rhiannon sighed. She looked to Guy and Meridwyn. "Is that alright?" she asked.

"Of course, Rhi. I adore him, you know that." Meridwyn smiled.

"It's fine, Lady Rhiannon. I'm guessing I'm only here since Meridwyn is supposed to stay on that bed." Guy said.

"That is correct, Gis." the Sheriff said. "There's no one else to do this. Lady Margaret is at the bedside. So is Isabelle. Robert is busy. It must be you two."

"Of course, Cousin." Guy nodded.

"He's due for his milk soon. About a half hour. He needs his wormwood and ginger drops. Luckily, I have that in my gown pocket, in case he became fussy." Rhiannon said as she took a small vial from the pocket of her gown.

"I will do that." Meridwyn said.

"He needs it now. He must have it a half hour prior to his feed." Rhiannon explained.

"Two drops, right? I can handle it, honey. You go on. That poor lady must be beside herself." Meridwyn said.

"Very well." Rhiannon agreed and passed her the vial. Then, she moved closer to the baby, bending down to kiss his cheek.

"You must be a good boy, darling. I won't be gone from you long." she whispered.

The Sheriff ruffled his boy's dark curls.

"That's my boy. Don't give them any trouble, my son. There's another child expected in a few months time, and we mustn't frighten your uncle and auntie. So, try not to behave the same as you did last night, son." Nottingham sighed.

"Fah!" the child giggled.

"I swear he knows things already." the Sheriff said to Guy.

"Yes. I can see that." Guy chuckled.

A short time later, the Sheriff and his lady reached the area outside of Nigel's chambers. Immediately, the air changed, Rhiannon noticed. All of them, including Luke, were quiet, and somber. Luke was sat on the floor, leaning against the wall. His knees were raised and his head was bowed. He looked tired, and worried.

A beautiful woman with golden blonde hair that was up in a neat chignon, was dabbing at her soft blue eyes with a handkerchief, as Officer Richard was quietly trying to offer her comfort, while they sat together on a bench outside of Nigel's rooms.

The Sheriff brought Rhiannon with him to stand in front of them, then he softly cleared his throat.

Both of them looked up from the bench where they were seated. Rhiannon looked to Richard, curiously. Wondering why his eyes and face were enhanced with what she assumed was charcoal.

"Lady Aeleanna, I'd like you to meet my wife. This is Lady Rhiannon." he said, nodding to Rhiannon.

"It's… good to meet you." Aeleanna said, softly. She was curious about why the Sheriff brought his wife to meet her.

"Indeed. Likewise." Rhiannon nodded. She looked to Richard. "Would you mind giving us a few moments, Officer Richard?"

"Of course, Milady." Richard said as he stood from the bench. "Take a seat."

"Thank you." she nodded.

The Sheriff was conferring quietly with some of his men, as Lady Aeleanna looked to Lady Rhiannon, curiously.

"Hmm. I see. You've been summoned to mind me. I don't need minding, Lady Rhiannon. I'm not planning to create a scene. All I want is to see my man — preferably, breathing!" Aeleanna exclaimed in a whisper. She looked to her lap and dabbed at her eyes. Then, she quietly blew her nose.

"Of course, you do. And, you will. I just thought you might like the company of a lady, instead of being outnumbered by all of these men. I'm not sure if you know them, or not."

"I know Richard. He is Nigel's best mate. I only just met the rest of them." a beat. "What a way to meet his comrades! I could just about smack him for this!"

"I understand. Fear and anger all mixed together." Rhiannon nodded.

"You couldn't possibly know." Aeleanna sighed.

"I have some idea." Rhiannon said, quietly.

"I'm trying to be strong, but I'm frightened! This cannot be real!"

"I know. He's in very good hands, however. Try not to think of the worst just now. Let's just take it one moment at a time, Lady Aeleanna. Think good thoughts. Pray if you must. Would it help it we summoned for a soothing cup of chamomile tea, Milady?" Rhiannon suggested.

"You're very kind. Especially, since I haven't been particularly polite to you." Aeleanna said.

"It's completely understandable." Rhiannon smiled, softly.

"Forgive me for that. Yes, I believe that would be welcome. Will you have some, too?"

"Very well. Stay here, Lady Aeleanna. I shall flag down a servant." Rhiannon instructed.

Then, she arose from the bench and quickly headed down the corridor.

Richard noticed the Sheriff's lady's absence and walked back toward the bench.

"What… was that about?" Richard asked.

"She's keeping me company, Richard. It's fine. It's quite nice to have a lady here with me. It's kind of… intimidating, otherwise, since you're the only one I know who is waiting in this corridor."

"Of course, Milady. But, where is she now?"

"She's summoning for tea. She thought chamomile tea might be helpful. I agreed. Once I know Nigel is through the worst of it, I'll enjoy a good mug of mead, though. I can promise you that."

"So will I, Milady." Richard sighed.

The Sheriff went into Nigel's rooms and proceeded toward the bedchamber. He stood in the doorway and observed.

"Damn it. There's another one that needs repair. Switch places with me, Tom. I'm right handed. I need to be on your side of the bed to do this." Leofwin said.

"I've got it, Leofwin." Thomas said.

"No, Tom. You've been working steady for a long while. It's my turn now." Leofwin said, firmly. Next, he addressed the midwife. "Thread that needle with a hair strand, Lady Margaret." he directed her. Then, he moved away from the bed and walked around to the other side of it.

Lady Margaret performed her task, and Thomas took his place beside Lady Margaret. Isabelle applied pressure, and Mortianna dutifully held the torch for them.

"It's Robert, correct?" Leofwin looked to Robert briefly, then commenced his work.

"Yes." Robert said.

"See if Milord Sheriff and Richard have returned, Robert. We need to question Richard." Leofwin said.

"Indeed. This is madness." Thomas sighed.

The entire team were so busy, each with their own important tasks, that they had no idea the Sheriff was standing right there in the doorway.

"I'm right here." the Sheriff announced.

"Good." Leofwin nodded, looking to him briefly.

"Milord, we need to ask Richard something. Can you bring him inside for a moment?" Thomas asked.

"We've questioned all of the others, Milord. Richard is the only one who would know the answer to our question. I'm not even sure Aela would know, if she is here. Richard spends the most time with him." Leofwin said, while continuing to work.

"Very well." he nodded. Then, he swiftly left to summon Richard.

Lady Rhiannon was walking toward the bench. Richard saw her and stood. Then, he turned to go and speak to his mates, when he was surprised to see the Sheriff standing before him.

"Milord? Is he… alright?" Richard asked.

"They need you to come in for a moment, Richard. The physicians have a question for you." he said.

"Oh. I see. Very well." Richard nodded.

Moments later, the Sheriff and Richard stood at the doorway to Nigel's bedchamber. Richard took soft deep breaths as he took in the scene.

Nigel was a pale white colour that Richard had never seen with him. The four helping him were working quickly and diligently; and a pile of bloodied rags and towels were on the floor, tossed toward the end of the bed, away from where they worked.

Richard swallowed, dryly.

Isabelle looked up and noticed them standing there. She whispered to Leofwin and Thomas.

Leofwin looked up at him and gave Richard a curious look.

"Richard, what the hell has my son been ingesting?" Leofwin asked, then looked back down to where he was working.

The Sheriff's eyebrow shot north, suspiciously. Surely, Nigel hadn't been taking poison, too? Wouldn't he have noticed? He had never noticed this about Nigel!

"Excuse me?" Richard asked.

"Does he eat or drink anything that seems a bit unusual to you?" Thomas asked. "It could be anything."

"He sure as hell has not been consuming any poison, if that's what you're asking. I can assure you of that." Richard said, in defence of his mate.

"Oh course, Richard. My son? The health fanatic? That's not what we mean, lad." Leofwin said.

"Officer Richard, it could be anything. A herb, or a spice, perhaps? Something that is ordinary, but he might be overdoing it with whatever it is." Lady Margaret added.

"Oh, I see. I can only think of a couple of minor things. I just thought it was strange, myself. But, everyone has different preferences." Richard shrugged.

"What is it, Richard?" the Sheriff asked.

"He puts… cinnamon and ginger in his tea. Copious amounts, in my opinion. He says it puts a spring in his step, and a zing in his spirit. I told him it's his training regime that's doing that, but he swears by it." Richard said.

The Sheriff suddenly remembered mention of this tea. It was the day he took Ancel to meet with Richard about sketching a portrait of the stumpy bloke, just over three weeks ago. While the three of them were heading inside, Nigel asked Richard to ask Lady Margaret about bringing that exact tea for him, and Nigel started to say the same thing, about how it put a spring in his step.

Lady Margaret looked down and sighed. How many times had she brought Nigel that tea? She didn't think much of it then, either. Curses!

"Curses!" Leofwin muttered. "Leave it to him!"

"Both of those spices would do that to him." Lady Margaret frowned.

"Indeed, Lady Margaret." Thomas nodded.

"I never knew that. That's good to know." Isabelle said as she passed Leofwin a clean rag.

"How often would you say he drinks that tea concoction?" Leofwin asked, without looking up.

"When we were away together recently, I would say… hmm. Maybe three times a day. Sometimes four." Richard said.

"God damn it, Nigel!" Leofwin muttered as he looked briefly to his left upon his son's face. Then, he shook his head and sighed as he turned his attention back to the blood vessel he was repairing.

"May I ask… what is wrong with cinnamon and ginger?" Nottingham asked, curiously.

"When they're taken regularly in large amounts, they can thin the blood, Milord. We're… having a time with that." Thomas said.

"Fuck!" Richard muttered.

"Oh. I see." the Sheriff sighed.

"Don't worry. We're going to stop this blood from oozing if it's the last damn thing I do. And, there's another matter I shall need to lecture him about! Foolish lad!" Leofwin sighed.

"We're going to need plenty of wine mixed with cloves when we finish, Mortianna. Just letting you know now." Lady Margaret said.

"Of course." Mortianna nodded.

"Indeed, Lady Margaret." Thomas said.

"It's good you're preparing for that part, but we've still got some work to do first. Hopefully, this repair will help. Then, we'll keep applying pressure until it's safe to close him." Leofwin said.

"If that is all you needed to know, I'll take Richard back outside." the Sheriff said.

"Hang on, mate! Keep fighting!" Richard called out, urgently.

"He is, lad. He's strong. That's probably helping him." Leofwin said, reassuringly. Next, he frowned as he looked back down to the surgical area. "And, it's best we don't frighten him awake, lad. Especially at a time like this. I don't want to give him dwale to put him back to sleep if we're still working on him. It wouldn't be safe for him. Let's keep our voices down. He knows your pulling for him, lad." he instructed.

"Indeed." Thomas agreed.

"Right. Of course." Richard nodded.

"Come, Richard. You've done your part for now. We shall wait outside." Nottingham said.

Richard nodded and looked downcast. He couldn't bear to look at his mate anymore. That was not Nigel laying on that cursed bed!

Next, the Sheriff went to Robert.

"You better keep an eye on your wife. She's white as a sheet." he whispered.

"I've noticed. She seems to be managing well, though. I'm watching her. Tell Luke to take his time." Robert said.

The Sheriff nodded, and ushered Richard out of the chambers.

As soon as they were out in the corridor, Richard walked away from the door, while the Sheriff went to speak to Luke. Richard leaned back against the wall, taking some deep breaths. He bowed his head and closed his eyes, putting his hand to his forehead.

Duke Farnsworth noticed and walked over to him.

"Richard? Perhaps a good breath of air might do you some good, lad? Why don't I take you to the balcony?"

"It looks… so bad in there, Duke." Richard said, softly. He felt tears welling in his eyes. He angrily wiped them away.

"But, he's holding on, is he not?" the Captain asked.

"So far. But, how long can he continue to? There's a pile of bloodied rags and towels on the floor. They're still fixing him. Meanwhile, he's white as death! He… fuck, Duke! He… looks like a corpse!" Richard whispered.

"Richard… try to calm down, lad. It shall be over soon."

"What if… when it's over, he is over, too? This feels like a nightmare!" Richard gasped.

The ladies were seated together on the bench, sipping of their chamomile tea. Lady Rhiannon was trying her best to calm Lady Aeleanna. She whispered words of encouragement to calm her, but Aeleanna couldn't hear it. Her voice seemed far away and hollowed as Aeleanna noticed Richard's demeanour when he came out of Nigel's chambers. He looked fearful. What just happened?

Aeleanna set her cup down on the bench. Then, she stood and slowly approached him, not caring that he was speaking to the Captain.

"Richard? What is happening? Is he… is he still breathing?" Aeleanna asked, trepidatiously.

Duke Farnsworth sighed, and stepped aside. The Sheriff was paying attention to this and began to make his way over there.

Richard slowly looked up to face her.

"My God, Richard!" Aeleanna gasped when she noticed how pale he was and that his eyes were watery. "Your face tells me everything. Can't they save him?" she gasped, putting her hand over her mouth.

"They're working diligently, Lady Aeleanna. He is still alive." the Sheriff interrupted them.

"Yes." Richard muttered.

"Then… why does Richard look distressed, and that he might pass out? It must be bad for him to look… like this?"

Lady Rhiannon was right there to help diffuse the situation.

"Milady, I don't know if you've ever witnessed a procedure such as what they're doing in there, but it can be quite jarring, to say the least." Rhiannon explained, nodding to Nigel's door.

"That is… true." Richard sighed and looked downcast.

"She's right, Milady." the Sheriff said.

"Oh, this wait is interminable! Every moment that passes, I'm dying a little inside." Aeleanna whispered. She looked to the floor and held the handkerchief to her eyes.

"Come, Milady. Let us walk for a bit. It will do you some good." Rhiannon suggested, gently putting one hand on her shoulder.

"He cannot die! He's the only man I've ever loved. If I could give my own blood to help him, I would. I swear!"

"Of course, Milady. I understand." Rhiannon said, softly.

"You keep saying that, but how could you? I cannot possibly move on without him. I won't even think of a life without Nigel." Aeleanna vowed.

"And, you shouldn't. There's still hope right now, Milady. You must hold on to that." Rhiannon said.

"I agree with my wife, Milady. A little walk will be helpful. If there's any change I will come for you, personally. It will be alright." the Sheriff added.

"Very well. I thank you both for your kindness." Aeleanna smiled, ruefully. "Perhaps… someone could help Richard, too. He looks a fright."

"Indeed, Lady Aeleanna. I concur. I'm going to take care of that." Duke Farnsworth said.

"I'm fine, Duke." Richard said, quietly.

The ladies started to walk slowly down the corridor.

"You're not fine, Richard. You're damn near as pale as Nigel." the Sheriff said, quietly.

"He looks awful, Milord. I'm… afraid for him." Richard whispered.

"We all are, lad. But, we must be strong. Let's not insult Nigel's strength to get through this. If anyone can fight against impossible odds, it's him. He's easily the most fit of the lot of us." Nottingham said.

"Very well said, Milord. I concur." Duke Farnsworth agreed.

"You're right, Milord. Being a fighter is at his core. Thank you. That… helps a little." Richard nodded. Then, he looked to the Captain. "You're right. I should probably remove myself from here for a short time. My mind is trying all sorts of japery to push me to lose reason."

"Understandable." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

"Not the balcony, though. I've been feeling a dreadful chill to my bones ever since I witnessed Nigel take that arrow." Richard said quietly, with a shudder.

"Why don't you join Nichol downstairs? The rest of the men should be arriving soon. And hopefully, our men on City Watch will have a couple of new prisoners for us very shortly. That will distract you for a time." Nottingham said.

"I think that would be fine, Milord." Richard nodded, then he took his leave of them.

"Wait, Richard. I'm accompanying you." Duke Farnsworth reminded him.

Richard turned back to face him. "I'm fine, Captain. I need time to myself to think before I see Nichol, and possibly the men who are expected back."

"I need to you to maintain crowd control, Duke. Let him be. He's in shock." the Sheriff whispered.

"Very well." the Captain nodded. "Alright, Richard. Mind yourself."

"I'll summon you with any news." the Sheriff said.

Richard nodded, then headed toward the stairs.

Lady Gunilda was riding her horse toward Nottingham Castle. Earlier, she was relaxing in a hot bath, holding a goblet of wine in her hand, and staring into the flames of the candles which were placed in brass candelabra on a table at the foot of the tub. She wasn't meaning to, because she liked looking into fire, but soon, she couldn't stop the images that came to her, and the emotions coming through from a group of people. She shook her head and gasped softly when she realized that the group were the Sheriff and his men. Drake and Safforus were supposed to be there with George tonight, on a mission to catch those rebel blokes, it sounded like to her. Curses!

She finished her wine and quickly towel dried, then dressed and readied herself as she thought more of what she saw, trying to figure out — who got shot?

She didn't see a face. She saw a flash of a black leather arm ring on a muscled arm, then a sword, gleaming as it reflected torch light. She saw a group of men, but couldn't see their faces. Then, she saw an arrow in flight, it was like it was coming directly for her. Next, she saw blood. A lot of blood.

One of the Sheriff's men were injured. Possibly, mortally. Was it Drake? Could it be Safforus? Lady Gunilda needed to know.

She sighed as she slowed the horse to a canter as she drew closer. Luckily, the men at the portcullis hadn't spotted her yet. She guided the horse to a stop, then dismounted, as she took a moment to quickly ponder her options to expedite the process of her gaining entry.

She could sweet talk the men into letting her through. But, who would she say she was there to see — at a time like this? The Sheriff? Drake? And, at this time of night, it wouldn't make sense to say she was there to see Lady Rhiannon, either.

Gunilda sighed. That was going to waste too much time. She hated to use the spell she was thinking of, and very rarely used it, but she decided now was one of those times it would be appropriate to implement it. She would also need to summon another spell to raise the portcullis, since she was certain she lacked the strength needed to do so.

She guided her horse deep into the tree line to the right of the path so she wouldn't be spotted.

"Sorry, girl. I won't be long. I can't make you disappear, too. Trouble with that is: you're a horse. You won't know that you can't be seen. You might hurt someone." she said, softly, as she tethered her horse to a tree.

Just before she emerged from the tree line, she stopped, took a deep breath and closed her eyes. Then, she began to chant, softly.

"Momentous invisioso… momentous invisioso… " she whispered repeatedly.

Within moments, Lady Gunilda felt it. She always felt a momentary chill to her bones when the transformation hit. She smiled and began to walk toward the portcullis. She heard horses coming up the path. She turned to see where they were. They were still a bit of a distance yet, but she hastened her steps. She'd have to make this quick.

Emory and Beric were dutifully standing at the portcullis. They were actually meant to be off this evening, but, curiously, the two who were supposed to take over from them needed a few hours off. Both of them, oddly.

"Maybe that's our replacements returning — who should have taken over from us hours ago." Beric sighed.

"It could be. Or, it could be Castor, Alex, and Alfred. It could also be the City Watch men bringing the two rebels who got away." Emory reminded him.

"Well, I was hopeful." Beric said, shaking his head.

"It could be any number of people at this point, Beric. Just saying."

Then, Emory saw something from the corner of his eye. He turned and looked toward the portcullis. The winch lever used to control the chains that held the portcullis in place was being pulled — all by itself!

"This is bollocks. The Sheriff will hear about this. And, why do I have a funny feeling that groomer/horse trainer bloke was joining them?" Beric huffed.

Emory nudged him.

"Shh. Look to the portcullis." Emory whispered, nodding to the winch lever, and the chains moving as a result.

Beric narrowed his eyes and slowly turned to look.

"What in the devil is happening!" Beric whispered, his eyes widened instantly in complete astonishment.

"That… is a very good question, Beric." Emory said softly, with his jaw slightly agape.

The portcullis raised, completely on its own.

"Have you ever seen that happen?" Beric whispered.

"Never. That is madness. We better mention this to Milord Sheriff." Emory said, as he quickly adjusted the winch lever and proceeded to close the gate. "I don't know how the hell that happened, but I don't like it. Not one bit."

Gunilda raced toward the front entrance. She looked around her to make certain no one would see her, then opened the door and stepped inside.

She saw Nichol speaking to one of the Sheriff's men outside the Council Quarters. She saw the stairs to her left, well in advance of the meeting chamber and began to quickly ascend. She wasn't going to have much time, maybe ten minutes before the invisibility spell would wear off.

Once she reached the second floor, she could hear vague muffled sounds. Scuffling of feet, soft voices. She kept walking and then she could see a group of men just ahead. The Sheriff was there, speaking to his Captain. As she moved closer, squinting her eyes looking for Drake, she wasn't paying attention to who was approaching behind her. Within moments, Lady Rhiannon was walking past her, with her hand on the shoulders of a comely blonde woman. The blonde woman in the lovely purple gown brushed against Lady Gunilda.

Lady Gunilda stopped, muttering curses under her breath.

The blonde woman stopped dead in her tracks and turned back, scanning the corridor.

"What the… did you notice that?" Aeleanna frowned, still looking around her, curiously.

"What is it, Lady Aeleanna?" Rhiannon asked.

They were standing only a couple of feet away from Lady Gunilda.

Lady Aeleanna squinted her eyes and outstretched her arm, moving her hand as if she were feeling for something, as a blind person might do.

Lady Gunilda quietly took several steps back from her.

"Milady? What is it?" Rhiannon pressed.

"I could swear someone just brushed against me, Lady Rhiannon. That's what it felt like! What in the devil? I don't see anyone?"

"Perhaps it's just heightened senses, or something." Rhiannon shrugged.

"No. That was strange as hell! Is… this place haunted, or something?"

"Not that I'm aware of." Rhiannon said. She looked down to the floor, and stifled a chuckle.

"That is the damndest thing ever! Quite… creepy, if you don't mind my saying so." Aeleanna frowned.

"Perhaps it was a damn cobweb. I'll have a word with the cleaning staff to take care of that." Rhiannon suggested. She hoped this would satisfy the lady's curiosity. Rhiannon suspected Officer Nigel's lady was in need of rest.

"Oh. I never thought of that. Maybe it was just something innocent like that? Although… I don't see or feel any cobwebs, either?" Aeleanna frowned, still waving her outstretched arm in front of her. Then, she sighed and turned back around. "Forgive me. Perhaps my mind is playing tricks on me?"

"It's fine, Lady Aeleanna." Rhiannon smiled.

"You've spent so much time with me, Lady Rhiannon, and have been gracious. You don't need to call me that. My name is a mouthful. Most people I know call me "Aela", except for Nigel, and Richard. Richard uses my full given name. Nigel only calls me that when he's cross. Most of the time he calls me "Leanna", but that name is reserved just for him to use." she explained.

"Understood." Rhiannon nodded. She remembered her sister in law saying the same thing about Robert calling her "Belle". "Come, Lady Aela." she smiled.

The two ladies started walking again, and Gunilda breathed a sigh of relief.

The men approaching the portcullis on horseback turned out to be Slayer and Safforus. They took their time because a prisoner was walking with them, wrists bound with a rope. Slayer held the other end of the rope. The men slowed their horses to a stop once they neared the portcullis.

"Oh good. You got one of them. Milord told us you might arrive with a couple of prisoners." Emory said.

"Hmm. Yes. Well, the good news is we got this bloke. The bad news, right, is the other bloke with the bad beard got away from us." Slayer explained, then sighed.

"Indeed. We don't know where he got off to, but he's either a hell of a runner, or managed to grab a horse without our notice." Safforus huffed.

"I'm sure Milord will be pleased you got one of them." Beric said.

"Indeed. Hope there's a spot for him in your gaol. That wasn't sounding too promising at yesterday's Town Council meeting." Then, he looked to the prisoner. "Hope you don't mind cramped quarters, right?" Slayer scoffed.

"You. A bleeding tavern door guy arresting, and detaining me! What the hell kind of world are you living in? You have no authority. Town Council meeting, my left bollock! Stan Cross spat.

"Wrong! We have just as much authority as the Black Knights, Saffy and me, right. We're the City Watch. I'd save my breath if I were you. You're going to need it to answer the questions that are inevitable." Slayer said, sternly.

Beric began to chuckle while he raised the portcullis for them.

"Cheers, mate." Slayer nodded. "Do we just take him in through the front, now? Or, does someone meet us outside?"

"Straight through the front entrance. Nichol is waiting inside there, we were told." Emory said.

"Good. We'll be on our way." Safforus nodded.

"Indeed." Slayer agreed.

Together, they guided their horses past the portcullis.

Nichol was doing his best to keep Richard calm inside the Council Quarters. Nichol stood by the window, as Richard sat at the table, sipping water.

"I should get back." Richard said.

"You only just left there, Richard. Give it a little more time. Milord said he'd summon you if there were any changes. Isn't that what you told me?" Nichol asked.

"Yes. That's true. But, I still feel like I should be there."

"You won't be any help to Nigel if you're worn down, too, Richard." Nichol said, softly.

Nichol wanted to know more, but Richard wasn't saying much about what was going on inside Nigel's chambers. So, he decided not to pry. Richard was appearing pallid, his eyes told Nichol they'd shed a few tears. He sighed. He hoped some good news would present soon.

"I suppose you're right, Nichol. I'll give it a few minutes longer, then I must get back." Richard said.

Just then, the door opened. The Scribe stepped inside.

"What is it?" Nichol asked.

"Slayer and Safforus are here, Nichol. They've brought a prisoner with them." the Scribe announced.

"Excellent. Wait. Only one? Hmm. Very well. I'll step out and speak to them." Nichol said as he walked closer toward him. "Go and inform Milord, Scribe." he whispered. He didn't want Richard to hear that because he knew Richard would jump up from his chair and take care of the matter himself.

"Very well." the Scribe said, quietly. Then, he left the meeting chamber.

"Well, that's good news, I suppose." Richard muttered, then sipped of his water.

"You want to come out with me while I speak to the City Watch men?" Nichol asked.

"No. If it were just them, I would. But, I don't wish to look at whichever one they managed to capture. I can't promise I wouldn't kill the bastard." Richard said with a knowing look.

"Understood." Nichol nodded. Then, he stepped outside the chamber.

Lady Gunilda started to move closer toward the group that were gathered in the corridor. She was maybe twenty feet away. She stopped a moment, scanning their faces. She couldn't see Drake, but there were a few men huddled in one group, and she couldn't make out a couple of their faces because of their positioning. Then, she heard footsteps approaching from behind her. She turned and saw it was the Scribe. She moved to the wall to be out of his path, and stood to observe.

She saw the Scribe approach the Sheriff. Then, she felt the effects of the spell begin to wear off.

"Curses!" she muttered. She turned and swiftly walked back, looking for somewhere to hide herself before she could be seen.

Drake was gathered with Adam, Gerad, and Mordrid. He noticed the Scribe had come to speak to the Sheriff. The Scribe left, then the Sheriff soon followed.

He only observed for a moment, but several feet further away in the direction the Sheriff was headed, Drake thought he noticed something odd. It was the faint shadow of a woman's figure walking swiftly, then they darted toward the right. It was almost… like a wraith? The Sheriff didn't seem to notice it. Drake wondered if his eyes were playing tricks on him? He shook his head, rubbing his eyes, then rejoined the conversation.

Gunilda found an alcove to hide herself in. It was like a tiny hallway with a couple of doors, she guessed supplies were kept behind them. She stayed hidden but close to the corridor to get his attention when he was passing by.

Within a few moments she heard the unmistakable sound of his boots increasing in volume as they clicked upon the floor on approach. Then, he began to move past her.

"Psst! George!" she whispered.

The Sheriff stopped dead in his tracks, frowning and looking around him. Then, he backtracked and looked to his right in the alcove. He frowned, shaking his head and moved into the alcove.

"Gilda! What the absolute hell are you doing here? Does Nichol know you're here?" he demanded in a whisper.

"No." she said, quietly.

"What? Then, why the hell are you sneaking around in my castle?" a beat. "Are you spying on me? That's rich! Since, I'm paying you to be my spy!" he whispered in a huff.

"Not at all, George."

"Explain yourself, then! Make it brief."

"Remember I told you that water gazing and fire gazing were typically how I obtain portents? Earlier, I was unintentionally fire gazing." a beat. "I saw a lot of it, George, but I couldn't say which of your men took that arrow. I needed to know if… it was Safforus, or Drake." she explained in a whisper.

"Of course, you did. You couldn't wait for word, so you somehow snuck in here to find out. That's not how we operate, Gilda." the Sheriff huffed.

"I still don't know."

"Okay, I can understand how you might have missed Nichol, but what did you say to my men at the portcullis?" he asked, quietly.

"I didn't say anything. They never saw me."

"Right. That weird spell where people forget they saw you." the Sheriff sighed.

"It was a spell, alright… but, not that one." Gunilda said, softly.

"You must stop casting spells on my men — "

"I didn't, George. It was used on me." she said, softly.

"What?" he asked, incredulously.

"An invisibility spell was used. On myself."

"Gilda! What the fuck?" he admonished in a whisper.

"I saw it all, George. It was most unsettling. I didn't wish to bother you during such a time, but I needed to know."

"You fucked him, didn't you?" he demanded in a whisper.

"I care. I can't turn that off. That's not a spell doing that, it's real." Gunilda sighed.

"It's not Drake. It's not Safforus, either. Safforus is waiting to see me downstairs, along with Slayer. They brought a prisoner to me. So, now that you know they're safe, you can go back." a beat. "Unless, you know of something magical that might help my Knight who is fighting to survive?"

"There's something I can do, but it doesn't involve magick. I wouldn't use magick, because I mustn't alter fate." Gunilda whispered.

"I see. What is it?"

"I can summon protection and healing for your injured Knight. I'd… need to be beside him for a moment, though."

"Ha! Right. I'm just going to walk you on in there where a team of four professionals are working on him, two others are helping them — and one of the physicians who's up to his elbows inside of my Knight — is his own father! Ha! Yes, that will work!" the Sheriff remarked, facetiously.

"It will work, George — if I use that invisibility spell once more." Gunilda said with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"How? When?"

"You'll be returning after you take care of your prisoner, won't you?"

"Of course."

"Return here on your way back. I'll perform the spell, then I'll walk out with you. We could go in together. I'm sure you'll want to step in at some point for an update, correct?"

"Yes, but, how will I know you're beside me when I take you in, and leaving with me when I exit the chambers — if I can't see you?" he asked.

"We'll cover that when you return. It can be done." Gunilda whispered, confidently.

"Very well. I'll permit this, because at this point, I'll try anything. The one who is injured is my best warrior. He's smart, and he's strong as an ox — normally. They've been working on him for awhile, and it's a miracle he's still breathing. We need him to recover. He's too damn good. You stay here. Do what you can to stay out of sight. Wait for me. I expect this won't take long." he instructed her, in a hushed voice.

"Of course." Gunilda nodded.

"This better not be some sort of trick!" he warned.

"I promise you, it's not." Gunilda said.

The Sheriff nodded, then turned and took his leave.

A short time later, the Sheriff reached the bottom of the stairs. He could see them gathered, so he hurried over to the area outside of the Council Quarters.

"Ah. I see we have the Cross bloke. Very good, men. What happened to the other one? Did you kill him?" the Sheriff asked his City Watch men.

"He's a cross one, alright." Slayer scoffed, nodding to the prisoner.

"What manner of foolery is this?" Wolfstan asked the Sheriff. "You've got a bleeding tavern security bloke, and some other unknown acting on your behalf. We were protecting ourselves from your men!" he exclaimed.

"Sure. I no more believe that than believing you actually thought you could win a fight against my men. That will be enough!" he bellowed. Then, he looked to Slayer and Safforus. "The other one?" he asked once more.

"He got away, Milord." Safforus frowned, shaking his head.

"He must be a fast runner. I could swear there were only three horses missing, right, where the tavern team and those rebel blokes had their horses tethered, last I checked. Those were belonging to Richard, Nigel, and Ancel. Something funny about that, Milord. Who can run that fast?" Slayer asked.

"Can only think of one. His name begins with an N." Nichol said, softly.

"Indeed." the Sheriff said. Then, he nodded to the door of the Council Quarters. "Is Richard in there?" he asked.

"Yes." Nichol nodded.

"I need him to show Slayer and Safforus to the dungeon with that short red headed bloke. They've never done that before. Richard can show them to it, then demonstrate the procedure, as brief as it is." Nottingham said, in a hushed voice.

"Good luck with that, mate." Nichol said, quietly.

"Why?"

"He didn't want to come out. Said he'd want to kill the prisoner." Nichol said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"That's going to have to be too bad." Nottingham huffed.

He walked to the door of the Council Quarters and stepped inside. Richard looked up and stood from his chair at the table.

"Milord? Is he — "

"He is the same. You are needed elsewhere."

"Oh? Where?" Richard asked, curiously.

"You're going to show Slayer and Safforus where the dungeon is. They've got that red headed short bloke with them. You will still do the hand off to Joseph as you normally would. Slayer and Safforus need to learn the procedure." the Sheriff instructed.

"Milord, I don't think it's the best time for me to taking care of — "

"You're the only one here. It will be you. It won't take long. You can return to the group gathered upstairs once the task is complete."

"Milord, it's not that I'm not willing. The problem is… " Richard sighed and looked to the floor for a moment, then he looked up and into his eyes. "The urge to kill the rubbish fuck is very strong, Milord, to be frank about it."

"Understood. You will control it. You will do this, Richard." the Sheriff said, sternly.

"Very well." Richard sighed.

"Good. Tell Joseph to put him in isolation. None of the rebel blokes will be in contact with one another down there. Make sure you emphasize that part." he said, firmly.

"Of course, Milord." Richard nodded.

Moments later, they went to join the others outside the Council Quarters.

"Alright, men." the Sheriff began, addressing the City Watch men. "Richard is going to show you to the dunge — "

"You mean… they've never done this before? Ha! Ha! Isn't that a good one?" Stan Cross chortled.

"Right. About that mouth of yours. Here's your last chance to open it. Since you're the reason I'm down one man… would you prefer pain, or death?" the Sheriff grinned.

"Classic! Just like old times. Haven't heard that in awhile." Nichol muttered while smirking.

"Death. The hell with your buffoonery." Stan spat.

"Richard, tell Joseph to administer fifteen lashes to the cursed weasel. We better not go above that since he's a little runt, and I still need answers out of him at interrogation time." the Sheriff directed, nodding to the prisoner.

"I'm not telling you a damn thing!" Stan shouted.

"You're God damn right, you're not! You know why? Because, if you keep this up, I will personally introduce you to my tongue snippers, and we'll skip question period altogether!" the Sheriff hissed.

Wolfstan sighed and looked downcast.

The Sheriff looked to Richard.

"Go. Get this cursed weasel out of my sight, lad — or I'm liable to kill him before you can draw your sword." the Sheriff said, quietly.

Richard nodded, then looked to Slayer and Safforus.

"Come, men. I'll show you to the dungeon." Richard said.

Slayer and Safforus dutifully escorted the prisoner, following behind Richard, as he led them across the corridor toward the steps that led down to the dungeon.

The Sheriff sighed, then turned to head toward the staircase.

"George?" Nichol asked.

The Sheriff stopped and turned to look at him.

"Nobody is saying a damn thing, and Robert is occupied. Is Nigel… going to make it?" Nichol asked.

"He's holding, Nic. His father made a point about that, and I would agree. He thinks Nigel's strength is helping him. Leofwin Rainecourt is wilful like his son. He'll keep working until he drops, if that's what it takes; and if I have anything to do with it, our man will not die. I can promise you that." the Sheriff said firmly, with a knowing quirk of his brow.

Nichol narrowed his green eyes upon him and sighed.

"Now, what is that supposed to mean, mate? That last part."

"It's not that hard, Nic. Everything, and I mean every thing — will be done to ensure he survives." he said.

Then, he turned back and began to walk swiftly toward the stairs. He didn't want Gilda to be seen, and he needed to get her inside and out of Nigel's chambers quickly.

Nichol shook his head, furrowing his brow as he watched his friend walk away. What was he up to now? Nichol wondered.

Soon, he was entering into the small alcove to his left, a short distance from the stairs and about fifty feet from the group of people gathered outside of Nigel's chambers. He made sure none of them up ahead of him were looking when he took a detour to his left on his way to join them.

"Alright, are you ready?" the Sheriff asked.

"I am. More importantly… are you?" Gunilda smirked.

"I watched the flock of doves appear and then vanish into thin air, and then I saw what you did to the consort." the Sheriff said as his eyebrow shot north. "It will be fine. Now, how will I know you're with me?" he asked, quietly.

She reached out and tugged at the sleeve of his doublet.

"Feel that?" she asked.

"Yes."

"That's how you'll know I'm right beside you. When we're out of earshot of people you'll be able to hear me when I speak. I can be heard and felt, just not seen. So, we're going to need some space when we're approaching the door of your Knight's chambers." Gunilda explained in a whisper.

"Good. How long will the effects last?"

"Close to a quarter of an hour." she said.

"Not a lot of time when we factor in getting you out of the castle, the walk to the portcullis, and then past it." the Sheriff frowned.

"Indeed. So, we're going to need to get me in there quickly. It matters not to me what you do once we come back out, but I need you to get me in, then out of there." Gunilda said.

"Very well."

"What is the name of the injured Knight? I'll need to use it when I summon those who can protect him." she explained.

"It's Nigel."

"Good. Now, some… would find this unsettling to watch. It's like watching the body disappear and you're left with a visible soul. I will become transparent. Then, the soul vanishes, too." Gunilda warned him.

"Sounds fascinating." he smirked.

"Alright, George. Once I close my eyes, don't blink." Gunilda grinned, knowing that witnessing the transformation will spook him. Then, she took in a deep breath. "I'm ready. And, now you see me." she said, looking straight into his eyes before she closed them.

Then, Gunilda began to chant softly.

"Momentous invisioso… momentous invisioso… " she began her mantra.

The Sheriff observed, expecting it to fail because it took a few seconds. And then, it happened just as she described. His jaw flew agape, and his eyes widened in response. His colour became slightly pale, while he shuddered. She became transparent. He could see right through her! That lasted a few seconds, and then she was gone.

"And, now you don't." Gunilda smirked, enjoying the surprised reaction from him. She shuddered as the momentary chill took hold of her.

He reached out, and accidentally touched her breast.

"Hey!" she exclaimed in a whisper.

"How very odd! I can hear you, and it felt like you." a beat. "I can't see a thing!"

"Boo!" she giggled.

He jolted in response to that.

"Gilda!" the Sheriff admonished her in a whisper.

"Damn, it's amusing to observe your reaction, George. I should have tried this a long time ago." Gunilda chuckled.

"You wouldn't have held on to me as long as you did, Gilda. I can assure you." he said with a knowing quirk of his brow — even though he wasn't looking right at her.

When he spoke to her the Sheriff was facing her general direction, but looking around in front of him. Gunilda found this quite entertaining to watch.

"You're a bit pale, George. Kind of like a ghost."

"I'm fine, Gild — "

"Boo!" she giggled.

"Gilda!" he huffed. "Time is wasting. Let's make haste."

"Very well. You're right." Gunilda nodded.

"I'll go first. I need to make sure no one is watching where I'm coming from. I would have no reason to be in here." he whispered.

"Alright. I'm right behind you." Gunilda whispered.

He edged closer to where the alcove entered the corridor and poked his head out. He looked left toward where the group were gathered. When none of them were looking, he hurried out.

Gunilda swiftly followed and moved to his right. She tugged on his sleeve, then they began to walk.

"Don't let anyone get close to me, George. The lady your wife is with already did. Poor thing thought she encountered a wraith. I'm still to the right of you." Gunilda whispered.

"Damn it, Gilda! That's Nigel's lady. The last thing she needs is a damn fright! She's worried to death as it is." he whispered in a huff.

"It's fine. I think Lady Rhiannon finally convinced her it was cobwebs she felt." Gunilda whispered.

"Good thing you don't take up much space." the Sheriff sighed. "We're close now. No more words." the Sheriff instructed in a whisper.

They were approaching the group gathered outside the door. To the left, just about six feet away, Lady Rhiannon was seated on a bench beside the pretty blonde lady. They were sipping from cups and seemed to be engaged in conversation. On the other side of them a few feet away was a door, she guessed to the injured man's rooms. Further ahead and to her right, on the opposite side of the corridor stood a group of men. They appeared to be talking to the Captain. The Captain moved, and then he came into view. Gunilda smiled, with a tear in her eye, filled with relief to see that Drake was unharmed. She put a hand to her bosom, grateful to see this for herself. A part of her wished she could tell him that she was here briefly, but she knew she could never reveal this to him.

"I heard that gasp." the Sheriff whispered. "You must be silent for this to work."

She squeezed his forearm in acknowledgement.

As they drew in closer, she noticed the Captain coming toward them. She frowned.

"Are the men back, Milord?" the Captain asked.

"That was the City Watch men, Duke. Bringing us Stan Cross." he smirked.

"Well, there's some good news at least." Duke Farnsworth scoffed.

"No word, I take it." Nottingham said, nodding to his left at the door.

"No. Luke's back inside, but Robert hasn't come out. I hope that's not a bad sign, Milord." he frowned.

"I'm going to check in briefly for an update. You stay out here and manage the crowd." Nottingham instructed him

"Of course." the Captain nodded. Then, he turned and rejoined the men.

The Sheriff went to the door and opened it. He waited a moment to close it, and then he felt the tug of his sleeve. After he closed the door, he looked to his right.

"It's not a pretty sight in there, Gilda. For the love of Zeus — don't you dare pass out on me! If you begin to feel unwell, alert me immediately. I'll get you out of here, and out of sight. We can't have you suddenly appearing on the floor, or hitting someone, or some thing on the way down. Hell will break loose." he warned in a whisper.

"Understood." Gunilda whispered.

"You will see blood in there, but just keep reminding yourself that the people in there are helping him to mitigate it." the Sheriff added in a soft whisper.

"Of course." Gunilda whispered.

The bedchamber doors were open, and Robert noticed the Sheriff standing for a moment out in the den.

"Luke." Robert whispered.

"What is it, Robert?" Luke asked, softly.

Robert nodded to the doorway. Luke looked to that direction and saw the Sheriff standing in the den. He was looking to his right.

"Is it me, or does it appear he's looking to his right and moving his lips?" Robert whispered, shaking his head in bewilderment.

"I'll stand in the doorway, Gilda. You continue through. Come and tug at my sleeve when it is done." Nottingham whispered.

"What the hell? It sure looks like it, Robert. Maybe he's tired, or something?" Luke shrugged.

"I will, George. I won't be long at all." Gunilda whispered.

"Good. Let's go." the Sheriff whispered.

"Here he comes. I guess, we shall see." Robert said, quietly.

"More rags, Luke." Leofwin instructed.

"Coming, Master Rainecourt." Luke said. He picked up the basin of clean rags and took it over to the bedside.

Isabelle took a handful of the rags from the basin and set them on the towel on the bed where the implements were. She grabbed one of them to use, while she tossed the one she'd been using to the pile on the flour.

"Robert, come and take this torch from Mortianna. I think her arm is getting tired from holding it so long." Thomas said.

"Indeed. Thank you, Master Crumwell." Mortianna said.

Robert approached the bedside and took the torch from her.

"Take a seat, Mortianna." Leofwin said. "As soon as we start closing, I'll direct you to go and fetch the wine mixed with cloves." Leofwin said.

The witch nodded and went to a chair by the fireplace to seat herself.

The Sheriff stopped at the doorway, and Gunilda continued toward the bed.

There were four at the bedside, Gunilda noticed. She identified Thomas since Mortianna just called him by name. He was standing on the left, just ahead of her on the right side of the bed, and a woman was to his right, closer to the head of the bed. On the opposite side, there was a man standing there, busily working, and Lady Rhiannon's sister in law was to his right with a rag in her hand, mopping blood away while the man worked. She moved behind Thomas and Lady Margaret as she walked to the head of the bed.

"I'm here for an update." the Sheriff announced from his position in the doorway.

"Just waiting a few moments to see that this will hold, then we're closing him." Leofwin said.

"Did you feel that, Master Crumwell?" Lady Margaret asked, curiously.

"That… movement of air behind us? Yes. Rather odd." Thomas said.

"Good heavens, Tom! Let's hope this holds. I need to get him closed. You two are starting to tire." Leofwin sighed.

"Hmm." Thomas muttered, then he looked to Isabelle. "I hope we're not as pale in appearance as Lady Isabelle is. Are you quite yourself, Milady?"

"I'm fine, Master Crumwell. I feel well." Isabelle nodded.

"Do you need both Luke and Robert in here?" Nottingham asked.

"Yes, Milord. Luke is bringing us the supplies we need. Robert just took over torch duty from Mortianna. I expect we shall finish soon. When that happens, Mortianna will be getting us wine mixed with cloves to administer to Nigel. I'm going to need Luke and Robert to assist us getting fresh, clean bed linens under Nigel. Nigel is a strong man, and he's going to be a dead weight… in a manner of speaking, since we don't expect him to awaken for awhile after that. That's why I need a couple of men to help us." Leofwin explained.

"I see." the Sheriff nodded. He wondered where exactly Gunilda was, and had she yet commenced her ritual?

Mortianna looked up from where she sat, warming by the fire. She was sensing company. She looked upon him, curiously.

"Madam, I've a request of you. I'll pay you if needs be. I dearly need a cup of your batwing tea to… take the edge off." Luke whispered.

"Of course, child. It's natural that this would be a time you'd be affected by… the matter." Mortianna nodded.

"I know we stopped nightly cups only recently. But… all I keep thinking about is… " Luke sighed.

He chastised himself for being verbose. He must never display weakness! No one must know that he would just about kill for a leaf to chew on from that lovely exotic plant that Diego brought to him.

"That's fine, Luke. Do not fret." Mortianna whispered. "I will bring it to you. Your chambers, child?"

"That's probably best." Luke nodded.

"When this is over, and you're retiring to your rooms, ye shall have it." she said, softly.

"I'm grateful, Madam." Luke nodded. Then, he returned to his place.

Leofwin Rainecourt took a moment to glance upon his son's face. He was particularly checking for colour, and to be sure Nigel was breathing. This moment only lasted a couple of seconds, but he could have sworn he saw a small isolated section of his son's hair move. All on its own. Like someone moved it, yet no one was there? He closed his eyes for a second, shaking his head, then looked back to where he was applying pressure.

Lady Gunilda had just summoned Aradia, the Queen of all witches, to protect her and guide her before she invoked the next deity. She put a hand to Nigel's forehead, and absently smoothed his hair. She took in a breath, then waited. She would need to whisper softly, but she was too close to the team who were working on the seriously injured Knight. She dearly hoped someone would start talking soon.

"How's the oozing, Leofwin?" Thomas asked. He noticed Leofwin lifted the rag away from the area to observe for changes.

"I don't want to jinx it, but, it appears to be slowing. Have a look, Tom." Leofwin said, nodding down inside of Nigel's abdominal cavity.

"Oh, good. Does that mean you'll be able to completely sew him up, then?" the Sheriff asked.

"If this keeps up, its looking that way, Milord." Thomas said.

"I'm calling on you, Brigid, Goddess of healing. Forgive me, I'm unprepared for candle magick, flower magick, and I can't walk a circle in here, and perform normally. I shall make those offerings privately, later." Gunilda whispered, very softly. "For now, I ask this of you: Goddess Brigid, with your healing hand; restore the Knight, Nigel, to health again. By the Lord and Lady I ask of thee. With a wave of my hand, so mote it be." she whispered in a plea as she waved her hand in a circle above Nigel's head.

"Now, I summon you, Goddess Athena. Lady Warrior, true protector of all. Goddess Athena, the brave and the strong; protect the Knight, Nigel, for a life that is long. By Zeus and Aradia I ask this of thee. With a wave of my hand, so mote it be." Gunilda whispered inaudibly. Again, she finished by circling her hand above Nigel's head.

Then, Gunilda looked upward and closed her eyes.

"Loud is my message as the raven's cry. Send out my message. Send it high. Make it work, make it last. Tell the Gods of these things I ask. Make it so without complexity. This is my will, so mote it be." Gunilda whispered. Then, she took in a few breaths, and looked down to the man laying on the bed. She hoped the Goddesses heard her pleas.

Mortianna shuddered, suddenly feeling the presence of deities in the bedchamber, oddly. She dearly wished she had a soothing cup of steaming batwing tea in her hand to stay her frazzled nerves at this point.

Gunilda softly walked away from the bedside and toward the Sheriff at the doorway. As she moved in closer to him, she tugged on the right sleeve of his doublet.

He sighed with relief, knowing Gunilda had completed her task. He turned to head out of the bedchamber when Leofwin stopped him.

"Is Aela here, Milord Sheriff?" Leofwin asked.

The Sheriff stopped, turning back to face him. He looked to the medicus, questioningly.

Leofwin looked at him briefly, then continued working. "Right. Forgive me. You know her as Lady Aeleanna. But, she's a part of my family. She's like a second daughter to me, and she will be my daughter in law, if I have anything to say about it." he sighed. "Is she here, Milord Sheriff? And, is she… alright?"

"She is here, Leofwin. Richard sat with her for a time. He's occupied briefly for the moment. My wife is keeping the lady company. They were sipping tea, seated upon the bench outside of Nigel's chambers when I just came in. She's worried, of course, but she's staying strong." the Sheriff said.

"Good. Tell my future daughter in law that things are finally moving in the right damn direction in here. I expect we should be finished shortly, perhaps in half an hour's time. As soon as he is closed and stable, I'll come out to speak with her. And, Richard, too, if he's finished with whatever he's doing. Rather odd with the timing, since he is Nigel's best friend." Leofwin said with a curious quirk of his brow, then he looked down to where he was working.

"He was downstairs with my Advisor and Weapon's Specialist, whom is my former Captain. We needed Richard to take care of something. He shall be brief, and he will be returning directly."

Luke looked at the Sheriff curiously at the mention of "Weapons Specialist", wondering how that name change to Nichol's title came about?

Leofwin Rainecourt stiffened a moment at the mention of the Sheriff's former Captain. He softly sighed, then continued working. Maybe the Sheriff was referring to another Captain? He reasoned.

"Your… former Captain?" Leofwin asked.

"Yes. Nichol Burgess. Did you not meet him when you arrived?" the Sheriff asked.

"No, Milord." Leofwin swallowed. "Officers Mordrid and Ancel escorted me directly to these rooms."

"I see. Well, after you've finished in here, and you and Lady Aeleanna have spent some time with Nigel, I'd be happy to introduce you to the men."

"I should like that, Milord. I want to remain close by, to be near to my son."

Gunilda tugged on the Sheriff's sleeve, impatiently.

"Of course. Understood." he nodded, then he escorted Lady Gunilda out of the chambers.

The Sheriff walked past the crowd gathered outside of Nigel's rooms. Rhiannon looked up at him from where she was seated with Lady Aeleanna. She observed him walking past them, then he stopped at about twenty feet away from them.

"It is done?" the Sheriff whispered, looking to his right.

"Yes, George. Success." Gunilda whispered.

"Let us hope. I won't consider the possibility of success until I see with my mine own eyes Nigel looking hale again."

"Of course." she said, softly.

"Have you time to make a fast exit?" he asked, quietly.

"Yes. I believe so."

"Good. Make haste. No one must know you were here." he said, firmly.

"Agreed. I'll be in touch, George. I'm headed into town on the morrow. I'll see where my senses lead me as I go about my errands." Gunilda whispered.

"Mind yourself, Gilda. Be careful." the Sheriff instructed in a whisper.

"Of course, George. I'll be sending good energy to your Knight." she said, then let go of his sleeve.

"Thank Zeus it is nightfall so you won't be seen when you… reappear." he sighed.

"Indeed, George. Quite convenient." Gunilda smiled. Then, she swiftly took her leave.

He took in a deep breath, then turned and slowly headed back toward the area of Nigel's chambers; while his wife was still observing him.

He stopped in front of the bench where his wife, and Lady Aeleanna were seated. Lady Rhiannon looked up at him, curiously.

"Lady Aeleanna?" the Sheriff said, softly.

"Yes, Milord?" Aeleanna asked, fretfully.

"Master Rainecourt wanted me to convey to you that things are now moving in the right direction. He expects to be a half hour more in there, then he will speak with you."

"Oh, thank God! Thank you, Milord, for bringing me such news." Aeleanna smiled. She looked down as she felt her eyes welling with tears once more, this time, with great relief. She discreetly dabbed at them with her handkerchief.

"That's wonderful news, Lady Aela. I'm very pleased to hear it." Rhiannon smiled.

"As am I. This has been… so overwhelming." Aeleanna whispered.

"Of course, my dear." Rhiannon said, softly. Then, she looked to her husband.

"I'd like to take Lady Aeleanna to our rooms, George, while we wait on Master Rainecourt. Its much more comfortable in our den, husband. This bench is adequate, but it's made of rock, after all."

"Hmm. Yes, I imagine it would be uncomfortable after awhile." he sighed. "Very well. I'll leave you to it, my dear." he nodded.

"Thank you." Rhiannon whispered. She looked to Aeleanna. "Come, my dear. Bring that cup of tea with you. We're going to get you more comfortable, and warm before you next see your beloved."

"Thank you." Aeleanna smiled.

The ladies stood from the bench as Rhiannon escorted her to the private chambers.

The Sheriff was pacing with his hands clasped in front of him, as he looked to the floor, completely irate. It was true that Leofwin shared positive news at the last update, but Nottingham was seething. Although, it was appearing that at least now there was a chance that Nigel would improve, he was ready to spit nails that he was down his best warrior, for an indeterminate length of time.

His thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice.

"My Lord? Is… there something you're not sharing? Forgive me. You seem troubled." Duke Farnsworth asked, quietly.

"His father is optimistic that they shall be done with him in approximately thirty minutes hence. I'm just… stewing about a few things, Duke." Nottingham sighed.

"Does that mean he — "

"He's hopeful Nigel will recover. We shall see. They didn't administer dwale to him to allow for that… procedure they've been involved in for a long damn time. That was all him, Duke. He was in a very bad state. The hope is that he's strong enough to pull out of that." the Sheriff said.

"Still, that is reassuring. So, may I ask what has you stewing — as you put it?"

"We're down our best fighter, Duke — for who knows how long! We still got that Thorne bloke, and about fifty nine other of those brainwashed fools to contend with. They're planning a sodding incursion — and my best warrior is lying on that god forsaken bed in there…" he pointed to the door of Nigel's chambers. "… in a mess of blood, looking like the living bleeding dead. Like, what you'd imagine a revenant to look like. I'm furious, Duke! I need to watch a head roll!" the Sheriff exclaimed in a whisper.

"Of course, Milord." the Captain nodded. He kept his reply brief in an effort to refocus and calm his Lord.

"We need a new plan. We shall be having a briefing soon. As soon as we get word that the damn deed is done in there, we're having that briefing with Ancel, Richard, and Luke. The usual place. The usual men will be there. I need to know details. There must be something we're missing!" he said, sharply.

"Indeed, Milord. We can begin to formulate a plan then."

"Did you know that Nigel's birthday is in three days time?" Nottingham asked, abruptly changing the topic.

"Milord?"

"Leofwin mentioned this when Richard and I went to summon him. If he pulls through this, we're having a celebration for him, Duke. Even though that requires a cancellation of plans with the Prince."

"I wouldn't cancel your plans until you know for certain, Milord." Duke Farnsworth cautioned.

"Of course. But, that man took an arrow for me, Duke. He's getting a damn party!" the Sheriff said, firmly.

Just as Leofwin finished tying the knot and cutting off the end of it in the last suture to close the skin, Nigel began to softly moan.

"Mother!" Nigel whispered. "Come… back. Do not… leave… me."

"Nigel! God's nightgown!" Leofwin exclaimed.

"What is it, Leofwin? I couldn't hear what he said. I'm not as close to his head on this side of the bed." Thomas asked.

"He was speaking to my wife, Morganna." Leofwin said, softly.

"Has someone notified her to come, Master Rainecourt?" Luke asked.

Leofwin looked over at him.

"Hmm. You must be new. Nigel's mother passed away three years ago." Leofwin said.

"Oh. I see." Luke frowned. "Forgive me. You're right. I've worked with him, but I don't know him as well as the others do. I was unaware."

"Of course, lad. It's fine. It was just… startling to hear him calling for her." Leofwin smiled, ruefully.

"Of course." Luke sighed, softly.

"He's stirring, Master Rainecourt." Lady Margaret said.

Leofwin swung his head back to his left to look down upon Nigel, who was reaching to touch his wound.

"Damn it, ladies! Dress that wound at once! Treat it with wine first and let it air dry before you apply the gauze." he instructed them as he firmly grasped Nigel's hand, and moved it away from his abdomen.

They gathered their supplies to commence their work. At the same time, Mortianna left to retrieve the wine and cloves mixture.

"No, Nigel. You mustn't touch it! Be still, lad." Leofwin said, firmly.

Nigel fluttered his eyelashes as he attempted to open his eyes. He squinted as he looked to his right.

"Father? What the… why are you… here?" Nigel asked.

"Helping you to live, son. Just relax. We need to get your wound bandaged."

"What? What the… hell are… you talking about? Why are you… in my… fucking bedchamber? What… wound?" Nigel attempted to demand, but he was too weakened to command enough volume to his voice.

"All is well, Nigel. Close your eyes whilst we get you settled. Once that wound is dressed, and your linens changed, we will rouse you again to take a special wine mixture." Thomas directed him.

Nigel lifted his head off the pillow, looking at Thomas with his eyes widened in bewilderment.

"Master… Crumwell? Why are… you here? With… Father? The hell is… going on?"

"Saints help me! The lad is bleeding delusional now!" Leofwin huffed.

"He has lost a lot of blood, Leofwin. You know he's in shock." Thomas reminded him.

"Of course, Tom. But, don't you find it curious that he hasn't yet complained of pain?" Leofwin pointed out.

Ladies Isabelle and Margaret gave knowing looks to each other as they worked to treat Nigel's wound.

"Will… someone tell me… what the… bleeding fuck… is happening? Is this… a nightmare?" Nigel pleaded in a hushed voice.

"Damn it, son! Language! You were raised better than that, and properly educated. Be at ease for God's — "

Nigel tried to sit up and fell back to the pillow.

"Gaaah! What the… hell did you… do to me?" Nigel demanded. He raised his knees to guard the painful area in his belly. He closed his eyes in a grimace.

"Do you need anything from your bag, Master Rainecourt?" Luke asked, in a helpful manner.

Nigel's eyes flew open.

"Ha! At this rate, I may need to give him that dwale!" Leofwin sighed.

"Wait a minute. Is that… the kid… in here? Why are you all… in my… bleeding bedchamber!" Nigel exclaimed.

"You were wounded, Nigel. Your father and I just finished removing the arrow and stitching you up." Thomas explained.

"What?!" Nigel demanded.

"All is well, son. Calm yourself, lad." Leofwin said, softly.

Robert put the torch back on the wall, then brought the clean bed linens over and placed them on a chair close to the bedside.

"Where is… Leanna? I was… supposed to… see her tonight." Nigel said. He closed his eyes and slowly shook his head, angry to be enfeebled.

"She is here, my son. I will bring her in shortly. We must get you ready for that. Your bed linens are soiled and require a change now. I shall help you into some clean garments. Following that, you shall take a measure of wine mixed with cloves, and you will take that every two hours, whether you like it or not. You shall visit with Aela, and then I'm giving you a drop of dwale to help you sleep tonight, lad. Do we understand each other?" Leofwin said, firmly.

Luke looked to the floor and grinned.

Nigel exhaled sharply.

"Sure. Whatever, Father." Nigel sighed. "And then, you are… free to… return home. Since, I am… fine."

"You are not fine, son! I'll be staying in your den this night, and I won't hear one complaint about it."

"Christ. This… is a… fucking nightmare." Nigel sighed.

"Language, Nigel! You sound like some dreadful lowborn sailor! Close your eyes, and let us get on with it. I'll speak more about that later… along with a few other matters." Leofwin said.

"Grand. Can't wait… Father." Nigel frowned. Then, he found he could no longer hold his eyes open, and drifted back to sleep.

"Good. He's asleep." Leofwin sighed. "I suppose… it's mildly reassuring to see there's no alteration in his faculties."

"Indeed." Thomas nodded.

"We have completed dressing his wound, Master Rainecourt." Isabelle said.

"Thank you, Lady Isabelle. Thanks to both of you ladies. You were quite helpful through this." Leofwin nodded.

Both of the women looked to him and nodded.

"Alright. We're almost finished. Luke and Robert, we shall need your assistance changing out these soiled bed linens." Thomas said.

"I've put the clean linens on a chair. The chair is just behind you, Thomas." Robert said.

"I'll ask someone outside to summon a servant to take the bloodied rags away, and mop the floor where the rags have been sitting." Lady Margaret said, then headed out of the bedchamber.

"Sit, Isabelle. You look a trifle pale. We'll take care of the bed change." Thomas said.

Isabelle nodded and found a chair to seat herself.

At this point, Mortianna came into the room, carrying a large flask with her. Lady Margaret followed behind her.

"The wine mixed with cloves, Master Rainecourt." Mortianna announced.

"Good. Set it on a table. We'll be needing that in a moment." Leofwin said.

The Sheriff had noticed Nigel's door open, and Mordrid standing there, appearing to be speaking to someone inside. Then, he saw the witch enter inside, carrying a large flask. Mordrid swiftly left the area. The Sheriff walked over there. Ancel took notice, and approached him.

"What's going on?" the Sheriff asked.

"They're finished the procedure, Milord. Lady Margaret said to give them a bit of time while they change Nigel's bedding." Ancel said.

"Good. I'll wait to speak to the physicians before I alert Lady Aeleanna." he said.

"Of course, Milord."

"As soon as Luke and Robert are sprung from there, the three of you shall convene in the Council Quarters. We will be having that briefing that was mentioned earlier. Richard needs to be there, too. He is currently with Slayer and Safforus, showing them prisoner hand off in the dungeon." the Sheriff instructed.

"I'll take care of it, Milord." Ancel nodded.

"After the briefing, more of our men shall be joining us in there, along with Leofwin Rainecourt. He wants to meet everyone. I'm sure he'll wish to stay tonight. We will have him meet with us, while Lady Aeleanna visits with Nigel. I'm sure Thomas, or Lady Margaret will wait in Nigel's den during that time, on stand by in case they are needed."

"Of course, Milord. I'll alert Mordrid when he returns. He can notify the others. He went to summon a servant to deal with the bloodied rags, the soiled bed linens, and to mop the floor." Ancel explained.

"Perfect." the Sheriff nodded.

The Captain walked over to them to see if he was needed.

"Duke, we'll be having that briefing soon. Go downstairs and look for Richard. He's to report to the Council Quarters directly after assisting Slayer and Safforus. Ancel will notify Luke and Robert when they finally emerge. Then, Mordrid will round up the others to notify them of a casual subsidiary meeting we will have with Leofwin Rainecourt. He wants to meet Nigel's comrades. We shall do that while Nigel's lady is in there." the Sheriff said.

"Very well, Milord." Duke Farnsworth nodded, then swiftly left to carry out the task.

A few moments later, Nigel's door opened. Luke and Robert exited, and Ancel went to speak to them. Thomas held the door, and Leofwin stood beside him, motioning for the Sheriff to enter.

After the door was closed behind him, he looked to the physicians, questioningly.

"It is done, Milord. Everything is in order." Thomas said.

"A bleeding miracle!" Leofwin huffed.

"And, how is he?" Nottingham asked.

"He awoke just as I knotted and trimmed the final suture." Leofwin said.

"Did he speak?" he asked.

"He certainly did. It was reassuring to note his brain function hasn't altered in any way. He mostly cursed me out for being in his bedchamber." Leofwin sighed.

The Sheriff scoffed.

"Hmm. That does sound quite apt for him. He's never afraid of challenging me, either. The thing about that is, he's quite astute, and generally raises good points. What about now? Is he awake?"

"The ladies are offering him the wine mixed with cloves. He will be needing that every two hours. So, yes. He's awake." Thomas nodded.

"May I see him briefly, men?" the Sheriff asked.

"Of course, Milord. At this point, he'd probably rather see you than I." Leofwin said with a knowing quirk of his brow. His green eyes were identical to Nigel's, the Sheriff noted.

"You were… a trifle harsh with him, Leofwin." Thomas remarked.

"For good reason, Tom! That lad is stubborn, and he needs to get a grip on his vernacular. He acts as if he has had no education whatsoever! I need to be firm with him to ensure he follows our directives." Leofwin said.

"Of course." Thomas agreed.

"The trouble with him is Morganna used to mollycoddle him a bit much for my liking. Although, I must admit, she'd turn in her grave if she heard the language he freely uses now." Leofwin sighed.

At this point, Mortianna walked past them, exiting the chambers.

"There's something you should know before you see him, Milord." Thomas said.

"What is it!" he asked.

"He doesn't seem to remember the incident." Thomas said.

"Really?" the Sheriff asked, incredulously.

"Indeed. That was part of the reason he demanded to know why I was in his bedchamber. Not just me, but Tom, and Luke, as well." Leofwin sighed. "He feels pain where the wound is. But, he doesn't seem to recall being hit."

"That's a bit unusual, is it not?" he asked, directing his question to both physicians.

"He lost a lot of blood, Milord. As a result of that, he was unconscious through the entire procedure. He's in shock, and his humours are off balance. It might come to him at a later time." Thomas explained.

"I see. I will keep that in mind. I shall keep this brief, and then I will inform Lady Aeleanna."

"Is she out in the corridor, still? I can take care of that, Milord." Leofwin offered.

"No. My wife took her to our private chambers. It's more comfortable for her in there." Nottingham explained.

"I see." Leofwin nodded.

Ladies Margaret and Isabelle emerged from the bedchamber to report to the physicians, and receive further instruction.

The Sheriff headed into the bedchamber to check on his best warrior.

Nigel was reclined against pillows, covered in a blanket. His eyes were closed as Nottingham approached the bedside.

Nigel sensed movement near him and opened his eyes. He looked to the Sheriff, curiously.

"Nigel?"

"Milord Sheriff? What the… bleeding hell… just happened? My… father is here… for the love of… fuck!" Nigel asked in a whisper.

"You took an arrow to your gut a few hours ago, lad. Richard and I notified your father. Turns out, Thomas knows him well. He was given the option to assist, and he jumped on that. Next, we informed your lady." the Sheriff said.

"What the… absolute hell?"

"What do you remember, lad?"

"I remember… the tavern. The kid… killed it… again. Those… brotherhood blokes… took us to… their meeting place. Four… others were there. The one bloke… that Gunter bloke… pointed his sword… toward me. After that… it's a blank. Milord." Nigel sighed, shaking his head.

"Luke might have killed it at the tavern, Nigel. But, it was you who killed it in that sodding warehouse. Only two escaped. One is in the dungeon. The other is still out there." the Sheriff said.

"Which one… escaped?"

It was Thorne who escaped. Nigel. Don't think on that, lad."

"What of… the others?" Nigel asked.

"All dead. You took care of two of them. We must get you well. Incidentally, once we bring your obstacle course over here, I'm naming it in your honour."

"What? Like a… bleeding shrine… Milord? Why? Am I… dying? Be straight… with me. You're the… only one… I trust… will be honest." Nigel whispered.

"No, lad. As far as I know, you're not dying." Nottingham said.

"Great! What's my… assignment for… the morrow?"

"You seriously must be jesting. I suppose, that's a good sign. You have no assignment tomorrow, Nigel. There is no assignment for you until that's been cleared with Thomas, and possibly, your father, too."

"Forgive my language, but… fuck that, Milord. If my father… had his way… I'd leave you, and… follow in his footsteps. Booooring!" Nigel scoffed, rolling his eyes.

Nottingham chuckled, softly.

"Hmm. Yes. I believe you do have a point, lad."

"I'm going to… go mad being… cooped up in… these rooms, Milord… Sheriff." Nigel frowned.

"Nigel, it's early yet. It has only been hours since your near mortal injury. Do not concern yourself with any of these things yet. You shall be tended to, and permitted as much rest and time as you need. Your role still awaits you. Alright?" the Sheriff reassured him.

"Thank you, Milord… Sheriff. Although, I'm… expecting a… lecture from my… father. He's going to… try his… damndest to get me… to give up my… role here. Fucking hell!" Nigel huffed.

"That may be, but you're not a child. It's for you to choose how you wish to move forward."

"Except, looks like… I failed you earlier. Lost a… damn fight!" Nigel huffed.

"No, lad. You did not lose a fight. You lept through the air and landed directly in front of me to take an arrow meant for me. If it were one second later, I'd be in your place now." the Sheriff said, softly.

"I… did? Seriously?"

"Indeed. I wouldn't joke about that, lad."

"Oh. I… do not… recall." Nigel frowned.

"You're my best warrior, Nigel. There is always a place for you here. Understood?"

"Yes. Cheers… Milord." Nigel smiled.

"There's only thing I'm forbidding you to do." the Sheriff said as his eyebrow shot north. He pointed to Nigel, briefly.

"Milord?" Nigel asked, shaking his head.

"No more cinnamon and ginger in a cup of tea for you. At least, not until you have healed. And, for that, you will need to consult your physicians regarding the amounts. You might be able to enjoy that on occasion — at a much later time." the Sheriff nodded. "There. I just spared you from that lecture from your father."

"What? For God's sake… it's tea! I'd… expect a word of warning… about spirits… or a poison. But, tea… Milord?" Nigel whispered, completely bewildered.

"It's not the tea. It's the spices, Nigel. They caused a problem. I'll refer you to your father, and Thomas with any further questions."

"Very well, Milord." Nigel nodded. Though, he was still trying to figure out how ginger and cinnamon could cause a problem.

"You rest, lad. I'm sure your father and Thomas will be in to see you in a moment. Then, we shall bring your lady to you."

"Ha! Can't you… make my… father go away… Milord?"

"He and Thomas saved your life, lad. If he wishes to stay tonight, he is welcome."

"Curses!"

"You'll be asleep. It matters not, Nigel."

"And, my lady." Nigel softly sighed. "You met her?"

"I did." the Sheriff nodded.

"Isn't she… beautiful… Milord?" Nigel smiled.

"Indeed, lad. And, she very much adores you."

"Is… Leanna alright? She must have… been frightened when… you and Richard… went to her." Nigel frowned.

"She has been very concerned, but she is strong, too. She is fine. You shall see her soon, lad. I shall leave you now. I'm about to be briefed by the men you were on assignment with at the tavern." the Sheriff said.

"Thank you… Milord Sheriff."

"It is I who must thank you. I'm indebted to you, and proud of you, Nigel. Rest now." he said, gently placing his hand upon his shoulder before leaving him.

Then, the Sheriff took his leave of him.

"He's resting now, awaiting a visit with his lady friend." the Sheriff reported to the physicians as he walked into the den.

"Good. I'll wait out here in case I'm needed." Thomas said.

"Shall I take you to my chambers to summon Lady Aeleanna, Leofwin?"

"Indeed." Leofwin nodded.

"Do you want a moment with Nigel first?" he asked.

"He's already heard a few stern warnings from me. I'll see him when we return here."

"Very well. Come. I shall show you to my chambers." the Sheriff said, then he nodded toward the door.

A short time later, they walked into the den of the Sheriff's private chambers. Ladies Rhiannon and Aeleanna were seated in chairs by the fireplace. They turned to look toward the door when it opened.

"Master Rainecourt!" Lady Aeleanna exclaimed, softly. She immediately stood and went to him. "Is he — "

"He is stable right now, Aela. He was awake, and speaking." the physician said, as he gently placed his hands on her shoulders.

Lady Rhiannon stood from her chair and slowly advanced toward them.

"I'm pleased to hear this, Master Rainecourt. He gave me a dreadful fright! Thank you for helping him." Aeleanna smiled.

"No thanks is needed, my dear. He is my son. The ability to heal is rewarding enough, but when it can be used to help one close to the healer, the reward is even greater. Sadly, that opportunity did not present with Lady Morganna." Leofwin sighed, then he released his grasp.

"Of course." Lady Aeleanna nodded.

"Leofwin, permit me to introduce you to my wife. This is Lady Rhiannon." the Sheriff said, gesturing to his right. Next, he looked to Rhiannon. "My lady, this is Leofwin Rainecourt."

"Yes. A pleasure to meet you. Thank you for keeping Aeleanna company." Leofwin nodded.

"It's fine. It's good to meet you, as well, Master Rainecourt." Rhiannon smiled.

"Is… he awake now?" Lady Aeleanna asked.

"He's asking for you, Aela. He's not going to sleep until he sees you, in particular. We will go in together, and then I shall wait in the den with Tom, the other physician who helped him. Just try to keep it quiet in there. You'll know what to do. You're the calm one of the pair of you, as it is. But… you must try to keep him calm. Alright?" Leofwin said, firmly.

"That man generally goes from zero to one hundred in a matter of a few moments, Master Rainecourt. He wouldn't know what calm was if it bit him on his ear." Aeleanna sighed.

Nottingham scoffed at that comment.

"Sounds like someone I know." Lady Rhiannon muttered with a smirk.

The Sheriff looked to his right, and eyed her, curiously.

"You must try, if he makes any moves to try to get out of that bed. You know him, Aela. He's liable to rip those sutures open. Tom and I worked hard on him, and it took a lot of supplies — and manpower, so to speak. We are not going through that again. If he rips those, we'll be right back to square one, because I shall need to get back in there to repair the damage. This is why him staying quiet is vital." Leofwin said, adamantly.

"Understood. I will do my best." Aeleanna nodded.

"We shall leave you now and head back to him, Milord." Leofwin said.

"I'll leave you to it. I've a matter that needs attending to, and then I invite you to join us in the Council Quarters while Lady Aeleanna is visiting Nigel. Thomas will be in Nigel's den, should Nigel need him. You shall meet your son's comrades." the Sheriff said.

"That sounds good to me. When should I be there?" Rainecourt asked.

"Give us a half hour."

"Very well." Leofwin nodded.

The Sheriff walked them to the door.

After they left, he turned to his wife.

"Sounds like we're keeping the baby here tonight. Lady Margaret might have her hands full, between Officer Nigel, and Meridwyn." Rhiannon said.

"We shall see. I expect Nigel's father might wish to stay tonight. She might not be needed there. Come. You must bring our son back here, and I need to get Gis. We will be busy until Leofwin joins us. We need to get started." he said, then extended his arm to her.

Rhiannon took his arm, then he led her to the Gisbornes' chambers.

Everyone except for the Sheriff and his Lieutenant were assembled in the Council Quarters, ready for the meeting. At this point, most were attempting to keep Richard calm.

He sat with his arms folded, resting them on the table, shaking his head and frowning.

"So, you're telling me that he is awake now, and I cannot see him yet?" Richard asked, incredulously.

"His family are with him, Richard. We're having a briefing, and then his father is meeting us. Perhaps you can see him, then?" Nichol suggested.

"Is he really alright?" Richard asked as he glanced around the table. Then, he focused on Luke. "Luke? You were in there. You too, Robert. You must know something!" Richard demanded.

"Richard, calm down, lad." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Just as it finished, he awoke." Robert said.

"He had some choice words for his father. Didn't like him being in his bedchamber." Luke added.

"Hmm. Sounds just like him." Richard sighed.

"He was confused about what was going on, but he seemed to be fair, considering the circumstances." Robert said.

"You'll get your moment, Richard. Let's get through this meeting first." Ancel said.

"Nigel shall need his rest, too, lad. We nearly lost him tonight." Duke Farnsworth cautioned him.

"Yes. I suppose you're right." Richard sighed.

"Check with his father about a good time to see him when he joins us, Richard. He will know best, I'm sure." Ancel added.

"Very well." Richard nodded.

Just then, the Sheriff and Gisborne walked through the door into the meeting chamber, advancing towards the table.

"Good, you're all here." Nottingham said as he took as place at the table. "Let's get started, men. The rest of the men, as well as Master Rainecourt are joining us less than thirty minutes from now. From the top. Tell me everything that transpired in that tavern, then later at the warehouse, before the rest of us walked through the door."

The doors opened to Nigel's bedchamber as Leofwin escorted Lady Aeleanna inside.

Nigel heard their footsteps and opened his eyes. He smiled.

"Nigel!" Aeleanna exclaimed softly, as she swiftly advanced toward him. She sat on the bed beside him and took his hand in hers.

"Hello… gorgeous." he whispered as he squeezed her hand.

"My love, are you… alright?"

"I will be. Do not… worry." Nigel smiled.

Leofwin approached the bedside.

"You gave her a scare earlier, son. So, stay in that bed, so you don't give her yet another scare. You must rest, son." Leofwin said, firmly.

"I'm… grateful for… your help, Father; but, you may… return home now. All is… well." Nigel said.

"I'm staying in your den tonight, Nigel. My decision is firm. We nearly lost you, son. You absolute fool — acting like you're impervious to injury!" Leofwin huffed, then took in a breath before he continued. "The next several hours are critical. Let me do my job, Nigel. Both of them."

"Very well." Nigel sighed.

"I shall leave you two now. I'll be with Tom for a time in your den. Later, I will take his place and rest there tonight." Leofwin nodded, then he turned and exited the bedchamber, closing the doors upon exiting.

"I'm glad… you're here. Even though, I… look like… this." Nigel whispered.

"It matters not, my love. As long as you recover, that's all I care about." Aeleanna smiled.

"I am… lucky. I have you… Leanna."

"Of course, you do. You always will, my love. Rest. It will be alright. I shall be here."

"I shall… make it… up to you… Leanna. I'm not… able for much… right now." Nigel frowned.

"Shush, my love. Of course, you're not! You only just had an arrow successfully removed from you."

"Yes. That's what everyone… keeps telling me." Nigel sighed.

"You don't remember, Nigel?" Aeleanna asked, curiously.

"Not… that part. There's… gaps before that, too."

"What matters is you're alive, lover. Thank God!" Aeleanna said, then softly kissed his cheek.

"I said I … love you, and… I meant it. Be… patient, my love." Nigel whispered.

"You don't need to instruct me on patience, Nigel." she said with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"Touché." Nigel grinned.

Back in the Council Quarters, the briefing was getting underway.

"This time, all three approached us, Milord. They seated themselves at our table. It wasn't long before Stan asked if we were ready to get serious. So, Nigel and I asked what exactly they were referring to since it was never specified." Ancel began.

"It was soon after that, Bert blurted out they had plans to break into your castle, Milord. So, Nigel asked how they would do that. He asked how they would know of entry points and floor plans." Richard added.

"Clever." Duke Farnsworth smirked.

"I see. What was the response to that?" the Sheriff asked.

"Stan said that's where an associate of theirs came in handy. Said the associate works for you, and commented it was "bleeding poetic"." Ancel sighed.

"Thought you said you got nothing out of them, Ancel? That's a good start. Confirms my suspicion." Nottingham exhaled sharply.

"God's nightgown!" Guy exclaimed.

"Yes, Gis. Somewhere around here is a sodding traitorous mole!" he huffed. He looked again to Ancel and Richard. "What happened then?"

"Nigel asked directly whom that would be." Ancel said.

"A bold move. How did he respond?"

"Not favourably, Milord. So, Nigel came up with a good explanation. Said he'd be interested to know because we had plans to break into your vault, playing to their suspicions that we were possibly thieves, Milord." Richard explained.

"Classic! Only Nigel would think of something like that!" Nichol laughed.

"Indeed. Quite clever. So, did you get a name?" he asked them.

"No. That was when the mead and fake mead arrived. They insisted we have mead with them. It seemed that our server, whom is also Slayer's best mate, as well as Charlie, made certain that only they were given mead. We were given some sort of non descript fruit beverage that appeared to be mead, but was only a mixture of fruit juices, Milord." Ancel smirked.

"And, soon after those drinks arrived, Ancel asked how they were set for weapons. They said they had plenty. Nigel commented that would cost a pretty penny. I asked who was supplying those." Richard said.

"Stan didn't like that. Nigel got around that by asking if he'd need to buy one or more weapons from them, or could he bring his own. Asked if there was a membership fee, smoothly alluding to the idea of membership fees paying for their weapons." Ancel said with a smirk.

"That lad is as sharp as an arrowhead. Too bad he spends most of his time trying to hide that fact about him." Nottingham sighed. "And, how did that go over?"

"The wheels were already spinning in Stan's mind. That was clear. Richard asked about what our roles would be when this incursion happens, and when does it take place. Stan ordered more mead for us and said we'd discuss those details afterward when they take us to a more private location they knew of that was close by." Ancel frowned.

"And then, hell broke loose at the warehouse, Milord. Stan and Bert immediately met with four others who were waiting there like bleeding vultures, while Artorus kept a watchful eye on us. Then, that Gunter bloke approached us with pointed questions for Nigel. He didn't believe the story about breaking into your vault when we seemed to be dressed well, and have fine horses. He soon drew his sword and pointed it at Nigel." Richard said.

"And, we responded in kind. Bert recognized our blades as being castle forged. It was then, they knew we were Black Knights, and the fighting ensued." Ancel added.

"I see. That's fine. You men took care of most of them present. Now, we just have that Gunter bloke — and fifty nine others to deal with. Anything else you can tell me?"

"There is one thing, but I'm not sure if it would be of any use to you, Milord." Ancel hinted.

"Tell me." the Sheriff urged him.

"We found out he has a wife. He commented that we were no more wanted by you than his wife. Don't know if that's pertinent, but that's the only other thing I can think of to mention." Ancel shrugged.

"It is pertinent, Ancel. Potentially, he may go to her to hide himself — if he's a stupid bloke." Nottingham scoffed.

"Indeed." Nichol grinned.

"But, who is she, is the question." Guy pointed out.

"That's what me must find out." the Sheriff said.

"Sorry that I have nothing to add, Milord. You probably could have had this meeting without me." Luke said.

"That may be, but you were a part of the team, and your role was important." the Sheriff reminded him. Then, he addressed Ancel and Richard. "There is something I'm curious about."

"What is that, Milord?" Ancel asked.

"Can either of you guess how Charlie and the server lady knew to only bring mead to the Jesus trio?"

"Good point." Robert said.

"Indeed. I'm curious to know, too." Nichol agreed.

"That was Nigel, and Drake, too." Richard smirked.

"Drake? I didn't notice Drake." Ancel said, shaking his head.

"Your back was to him when he was slowly walking past us." Richard explained.

"Tell us more about this, Richard." the Sheriff nodded.

"We already had a pitcher of diluted ale on the table, when Stan said he was ordering us mead. Ancel told him we were set for drinks, indicating the pitcher on the table, and said that we didn't need mead. But, Stan was insistent. That's when Nigel demanded to know why they wanted to get us drunk, and what manner of codswallop were they trying to sell us on; and he didn't keep his voice lowered as he had the rest of the time. I wondered what Nigel was up to. And then, that's when I noticed Drake walking by us at just that moment. I think Nigel planned that. I saw Drake speaking with Charlie after that." Richard grinned.

"Perfect!" the Sheriff smirked.

"That's brilliant!" Nichol chuckled.

"That's good teamwork." the Captain nodded.

"It is, indeed." the Sheriff agreed. "Can any of you think of anything else to share?"

"No, Mil — " Ancel started to say, but was cut off.

"I… think I may have an idea when this supposed incursion is set to occur." Richard said.

"What? Kind of an important detail to not share until now, Richard." Ancel sighed.

"There wasn't time. It was just after I put the copy of the castle floor plans back in the desk drawer. I could hear some of what was being said over by the door. I listened for a few moments, and then… bloody hell broke loose." Richard explained.

"And, what did you hear?" the Sheriff pressed him.

"Not a great deal. I heard one of them talking about storming the castle, and then the mention of "in a fortnight", Milord." Richard said, hooking the first two fingers of each of his hands in the air at the mention of the timing.

"Ha! So they think!" Nottingham scoffed.

"So, what is our game plan now, Milord?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"Tomorrow, you'll take the same group of men with you for the Sherwood search of fugitive number one, Duke." the Sheriff instructed.

"Very well."

"And, what of… fugitive number two?" Ancel asked.

"Some of you will be sent out to see what you can find out about Thorne, and any other of the Jesus blokes. Tomorrow is market day. People like to gab at the market. We'll work that out after we meet with Leofwin. I'm sure he won't stay long. Also, this pertains to you two, Nic and Luke." he said, looking to them both.

They each looked to him, curiously.

"Nic, you're going to train Joseph and Aldred with the crossbow on the morrow."

"But, they work the dungeon. Why would they need to participate?" Nichol asked.

"Everyone of them shall be prepared should those sodding Jesus rebels attempt an incursion. I don't care if they work the damn dungeon, or patrol the corridors, we shall be prepared, Nic. In fact, we're going to have Borin, from the armoury, participate, as well." the Sheriff said, firmly.

"Very well." Nichol nodded.

"How does this affect me, Milord?" Luke asked. Then, he frowned as a thought occurred to him. "Oh… no. You're not going to ask me to — "

"You'll be taking over for Joseph while he's training with Nic, Luke."

"Uh… very well, Milord." Luke sighed.

"Castor and Albert will be sent as back up during that time frame, as well. The three of you can handle it, lad." he said, firmly.

"Yes, Milord." Luke nodded.

"Also, Duke, be sure to follow up with that lead Nigel gave us regarding Dead Man's Curve. It's worth a shot to look in that cave he mentioned."

"I agree, Milord. We will look into it." the Captain said.

"Good. Only one more thing to mention before the rest of them join us. I'm discussing this now since Richard is here, and Leofwin is not." he said, then he looked over to Richard. "You know Nigel best, that's why I wish to run this by you first."

"What is it, Milord?" Richard asked, curiously.

"Men, it turns out, Friday is Nigel's birthday. Leofwin mentioned it when Richard and I gave notification of Nigel's injury. If he's feeling able for it, I propose we have a celebration for him that night." the Sheriff said.

"I'm sure he'd like that, Milord." Richard smiled.

"He might not be able to drink spirits, Milord." Duke Farnsworth pointed out.

"We shall see. It's not as if he's known for getting sloshed, anyway. Even his father referred to him as a health fanatic. And, no one will be getting drunk. We must stick to our motto: be prepared for anything." Nottingham said.

"There's just… one small problem with that, Milord." Robert pointed out.

"Ha! I'll say!" Guy scoffed.

"Indeed." Nichol frowned.

"Right. The Prince. We'll just have to arrange another date for our dining engagement." Nottingham said.

"Milord? You sure you want to do that?" Robert asked.

"One shot me with an arrow. The other took an arrow for me, Robert. It's not difficult to prioritize whom should come first." he said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Wait. What's that? The Prince did… what?" Richard asked, incredulously.

"It was accidental, Richard. Happened just over a fortnight ago when he thought I was a stag. Mordrid, Luke, and Ancel can fill you in on that." the Sheriff sighed.

"He's… not the best archer, it turns out." Luke said with a half smirk, and a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Fuck!" Richard softly muttered, shaking his head.

"Indeed, Richard. I'm sure they said that at the time, too." the Sheriff said.

"We were a bit too busy to utter profanities, if I recall correctly." Ancel said.

"Indeed." Luke nodded.

"He's going to be most disappointed." Robert sighed.

"Nigel is getting a damn party! Prince John can bring his wife over another night." the Sheriff said, firmly.

"Milord? Perhaps… you wouldn't need to cancel your plans with the Prince?" Richard began.

"We're not celebrating Nigel's birthday next week. There's no point to that." he argued.

"No. Of course, not. Why not… combine the two? I think Nigel would find that amusing to have the Prince there." Richard suggested.

"Hmm. I think he's right. I can see Nigel finding humour in that." Duke Farnsworth agreed.

"Prince John did say, "the more the merrier", Milord." Robert reminded him.

"I think this will work, Cousin." Guy said.

"Very well. The only conflict I foresee is that Prince John likes to be the centre of attention. He shall be present, but Nigel will be the focus. We'll just have to think of something to pacify him." the Sheriff scoffed.

"Maybe… Luke could sing for us?" Richard mused. Then, he looked over to Luke.

"Indeed. If you're looking to entertain the Prince, Luke is quite skilled at that, Milord." Ancel agreed.

"I'm skilled with other things that are more important for my role here, Ancel." Luke pointed out.

"Of course, lad. But, on Friday night, we're celebrating. And, you're the master at entertaining." the Sheriff said.

"I'm sure the Medley Brothers would be happy to take care of that." Luke suggested.

"Nigel enjoys your performing, too. I saw him not long before I joined you men in this chamber. He made a point of telling me that you "killed it" at the tavern earlier." he said, with his eyebrow quirked, knowingly.

"Yep. That sounds like Nigel." Richard smirked.

"Fuck." Luke muttered.

"It won't kill you to perform a couple of tunes once the desserts are brought to the tables, Luke. You won't need to perform the entire time." the Sheriff said, firmly.

"Very well." Luke sighed.

"It sounded to me like you had the crowd involved when you entertained at the tavern earlier. Try and do that a couple of times to appease Prince John. He wants for her to… enjoy some merriment. I don't think she gets out much." Nottingham smirked.

"Very well. That is easy enough, Milord." Luke nodded.

"Of course, that will depend on Nigel. He might not be ready for this. We shall see. We'll know more when we get an update from Leofwin, whom is probably waiting outside the door with the others." the Sheriff said as he stood from his chair. "Anything else to tell me before I go to bring the others in?"

The men shook their heads.

The Sheriff nodded, then walked over to the door.

In Nigel's rooms, he was relaxed enough he was starting to nod off, as he reclined against fluffy pillows, holding the hand of his lady love who was seated beside him.

He startled when he heard the bedchamber doors open, and footsteps approaching the bedside.

Lady Aeleanna quickly moved off of the bed, and stood at the bedside, still holding Nigel's hand.

Thomas walked to the other side of the bed and looked upon his charge.

"When is this… mothering rubbish going to… end?" Nigel asked. "I'm quite fine." he said with a grimace.

"Interesting. Because, your face tells me otherwise." Thomas said.

"Why you, and… not one of… your assistants?" Nigel asked.

"Take a guess." Thomas said, flatly.

"Oh. I see. Is this the… Black Knight treatment? Or, the… son of a fellow… medicus special?" Nigel asked, with his eyebrow quirked, curiously.

"Neither. This is what happens when someone sustains a near mortal injury, yet there's a chance to save them. This is standard treatment, Nigel. You will be checked on frequently for awhile by one of us. When you're asleep, you won't know we're here."

"Really? Because now… I'm not wanting to… shut my eyes." Nigel scoffed.

"It will be alright. You need to be assessed from time to — "

"I'll submit to… this load of bollocks… if you permit… Leanna to remain… in my bedchamber. Only her." Nigel whispered, firmly.

Lady Aeleanna looked to the floor and smiled.

"That will be up to — "

"I don't give… a rat's shaved arse! Leanna stays… in this room. She can either rest… on top of… my bed, or… relax on a chair. She… stays. It's not like… we can… do anything." Nigel said.

"Very well. I will need to clear that with Milord Sheriff, however. Now, are you generally like this? Or, should I be concerned you're worsening due to the irritability factor?" Thomas asked dryly, even though it was a genuine consideration.

"Ha! Nice… bedside manner. Sorry I'm not… as polite as… dearest dad." Nigel scoffed.

"Nigel, for heaven's sake!" Aeleanna admonished in a whisper.

"Lady Aeleanna? Care to add anything to this?" Thomas asked.

"I'd say… it seems to me that you and Master Rainecourt performed well, since there seems to be no alteration to his demeanour." Aeleanna smiled.

"Aeleanna!" Nigel huffed. He loosened his grasp of her hand.

"Right." Thomas sighed. "You're breathing is good — obviously. Your colour is slowly improving… sort of. Let's talk about the pain factor."

"What of it?" Nigel asked.

"We can take measures to mitigate that." Thomas nodded.

"Opium? That's poison. I'm fine." Nigel whispered, firmly.

"Right. And, when was the last time you moved?" Thomas asked.

"Excuse me?" Nigel demanded.

"Nigel, you've been resting in the same position since you awakened. Have you tried to turn on your side, or move yourself up in the bed?" Thomas pressed.

"Well… no, but… I'm sure there's… worse things. Pain let's me… know I'm… alive." Nigel said, firmly.

"Nigel?" Aeleanna whispered, fretfully.

"It's alright, Leanna. I'm good… my love." Nigel smiled up at her.

"I understand what you're saying, Nigel, but rest is important, too. Especially, at this time. So soon after the repair from your injury. You lost a lot of blood. Rest will aid healing. You won't rest if we don't do something to ease your pain." Thomas explained.

"He's right, my love. You already acted as a soldier, but you can be at ease now." Aeleanna said, softly.

"But… I feel fine? Weak, sore… but fine." Nigel addressed them both.

"Try and sit up for me, Nigel." Thomas directed him.

"What?" Nigel asked, incredulously.

"I want to observe your first attempt at it."

"What a bunch of… bollocks. As if… I'm totally… enfeebled!" Nigel sighed. Then, he placed his palms on the bed on either side of him, pushing with his arms to raise himself up. "Gaaaaah! Aaah, fuck! Christ, it feels like… someone is… stabbing me!" Nigel moaned, then he fell back against the pillows.

"Oh, my God. Nigel!" Aeleanna exclaimed. She placed her right hand on his left shoulder.

"How do you rate the pain now, Nigel?" Thomas asked.

"Bloody severe!" Nigel huffed, his eyes squinted shut in a grimace.

"Right. Try to turn on your side for me, now."

"What? No!" Aeleanna said, firmly. "That is quite enough! It's clear that was hard on him when he tried to sit up; and now, this is bordering on sadism. Just give him the damn opium. I'll get him to take a drop." she instructed, then looked to her man. "Nigel. Just take one drop, my love. It will help. One drop won't hurt you. And, I will be right here with you."

"Alright, gorgeous. I'm doing… it for… you." Nigel sighed, and squeezed her hand.

"Good. I think that's best." Thomas said. He pulled a vial from the pocket of his doublet and passed it to Lady Aeleanna, instructing her on dosing.

"Why not just… give me the… vial?" Nigel frowned.

"You're too weakened to self administer this now, Nigel." Thomas explained.

"Very well. Start now, Leanna. It feels… bleeding horrible." Nigel whispered.

Aeleanna placed one drop of opium on his tongue. Nigel frowned when he tasted it.

"That's… terrible!" he exclaimed.

Thomas had a goblet of water at the ready and held it to his lips. "Try some water. It will help."'

Nigel took a few sips of it, then rested his head against the pillow. Aeleanna sat on the bed beside him again, as he began to relax.

"I'll leave you now. Rest, Nigel. It will most likely be your father checking in on you next, if I know Leofwin. I'll be in your den for the next while." Thomas said.

"There's no… need for that. Leanna is here. Send him… home." Nigel whispered.

"I cannot do that, lad." Thomas sighed.

"Can't? Or, won't?" Nigel demanded.

"Both. He helped save your life, Nigel. I'm not about to send him away. A little gratitude towards your father is in order, I would say."

"I did… thank him." Nigel said.

"Good. That's a start. Rest. That's all you're expected to do now." Thomas instructed, then he took his leave of them.

"Fuck, Leanna! They're going to… drive me to… madness with… their coddling bollocks!" Nigel huffed.

"It is necessary just now, lover. It won't be for too long. Let yourself be at ease now." Aeleanna soothed.

"Try to keep them out… as much as… you can, my love."

"I will do what I can, but I can't promise that, Nigel. It's for you're own good they're being properly attentive." she pointed out.

"I know, but… this is… maddening!"

"You mustn't get yourself in a state. Close your eyes. You need rest now. I'll be right here beside you."

"Keep yourself warm, my love. Use… that blanket." Nigel said, nodding to the folded blanket at the foot of the bed.

She nodded, then arranged the blanket over her legs while staying seated on the bed beside him.

"The only… good thing about this… is you're here, in… my bedchamber. Everyone knows it… and they're not… complaining about it." Nigel smirked. Then, he yawned as he squeezed her hand.

"Of course, lover. Because, you nearly died!" Aeleanna sighed.

"I was not dying, Leanna. No way I was… going to leave… you." he smiled.

"Nigel." Aeleanna whispered. She leaned in and softly kissed his cheek.

He sighed, relieved the pain was subsiding. He closed his eyes and began to nod off once more.

The Sheriff opened the door, inviting Leofwin Rainecourt, and the rest of the men inside the meeting chamber. Everyone inside stood when Leofwin walked inside. Nichol took in a breath, and the Sheriff noticed his expression changed, and his colour became slightly pale.

"Come. We shall start with introductions." the Sheriff said to Leofwin.

"I already introduced myself to the men who were waiting outside the door with me. I've met just about everyone in here, as well." Leofwin said.

"Except for us. I'm Duke Farnsworth. Captain of the Black Knights." Duke Farnsworth said, shaking his hand.

"And, I'm Guy of Gisborne. The Sheriff's Lieutenant." Guy nodded.

Leofwin shook his hand.

"It's good to meet you both." Leofwin smiled. Then, he looked to Nichol, and slowly approached him.

Nichol swallowed, dryly.

"Well, it's good to see you looking hale… finally." Leofwin said.

"Indeed." Nichol nodded.

"Ah. You know my former Captain?" the Sheriff asked, curiously.

"Yes. I suppose… you could say that." Leofwin smirked.

"Funny. Could have sworn you told me your name was Master Rames, not… Rainecourt." Nichol said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"So that you would know I'm related to Nigel? Ha! That wasn't happening." Leofwin scoffed.

"I… seem to be missing something. How do you two know one another?" Nottingham asked, curiously.

"He is the one, George." Nichol said, evasively.

"The one… what, Nic?"

"The medicus who saved my life." Nichol said.

Several of the men in the room let out a gasp, and joined the Sheriff in unison for the question:

"WHAT?" they asked.

"You… can't be serious?" Guy asked, incredulously.

"You've known all this time. You knew our Captain was alive, yet you said nothing to Nigel, nor myself." Richard challenged him.

"He did what any medicus would do, Richard. They don't tend to gossip about their charges." Nichol said.

"Indeed. It was not my place to share it. Nichol had a very lengthy recovery, Richard. I almost lost him more than once. He wasn't ready to contact anyone, and I had to respect that." Leofwin nodded.

"Holy hell, Master Rainecourt! We were all grieving him over here, yet you knew!" Richard exclaimed.

"Richard, calm down, lad. It's over now. All is well." Duke Farnsworth said, attempting to assuage him.

"Unreal! The number of times Nigel and I visited you in the last three years, and you said nothing! You knew, and let us all go on believing our Captain was bleeding dead! I can't believe it." Richard huffed.

"Satan's teeth." the Sheriff muttered.

"I understand your anger, lad, but I had to abide by Nichol's wishes. Firstly, it was a long time before I even knew his name. And, once I did, he was adamant I keep it quiet that he was the Sheriff's former Captain. No decent medicus is going to talk about the details involving their charges to anyone. It's highly inappropriate. My job is to heal, not to meddle." Leofwin said, firmly.

"I see. I… suppose I understand. I can tell you right now, though, that Nigel is going to be steaming mad when he hears about this." Richard warned.

"That's fine. I'm rather inured to him being that way." Leofwin sighed. Then, he looked around the room to address them all. "Oh, we do respect each other — about some things. We just have trouble… relating on a few matters. Mostly, he doesn't understand the career path I would have chosen for him; and I don't understand his ambitions." he added.

"What would you have chosen, if I may ask?" Duke Farnsworth asked, curiously.

"To follow in my footsteps. He's got a clever mind. Excelled with his tutoring. Most of you are probably unaware, because for some strange reason, my son likes to hide this fact about him." Leofwin frowned.

"He does try to hide it, but it's obvious he is no fool. Especially, when he reins in his hot headedness." the Sheriff said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Yep. That's the only thing he does that's stupid. Tries to act clever — by hiding the fact that he's clever." Richard smirked.

"Oh, I can think of a couple of things to add to my son's stupid list." Leofwin sighed.

"He makes fatherhood sound grand, doesn't he, Gis?" the Sheriff whispered to Guy.

"Indeed. I hope Evie won't be troublesome." Guy said, quietly.

"It's my boy, I'm thinking about. It's sounding like something to look forward to." he whispered, sarcastically.

"Milord Sheriff said Nigel spoke to him earlier. Would I be able to see him briefly before he sleeps? Is he awake?" Richard asked the medicus.

"He was awake, lad. Yes. I'm sure he'd like to see you. Do make it brief, though. I'm surprised he's not dead asleep already after what he's been through. He may sleep most of the morrow. In fact, it would surprise me if he wakens before the gloaming tomorrow." Leofwin said.

"Oh, I see. I better catch him before he falls asleep, then." Richard said. He looked to the Sheriff.

"You may go. Return here when you're finished. I'll be going over assignments soon." Nottingham said.

"Very well, Milord." Richard nodded.

"Go, Richard. Aeleanna is with him, and Thomas is in the den if you need him. I won't be long. If you don't catch him soon, you'll probably be waiting to talk to him until tomorrow evening." Leofwin said.

Richard nodded to him, then turned to leave the meeting chamber.

"Now, which of you were with him when the injury occurred?" Leofwin asked around the room.

"Everyone in this room except for Nichol and Robert were present." the Sheriff said.

"Oh, I see." Leofwin said.

"He was… a fighting machine." Ancel said.

"Indeed. The way he moved, it was weirdly mesmerizing to watch." Gerad agreed.

"He's been assisting me in training one of the men, Master Rainecourt. He's a great fighter." Nichol added.

"Indeed. Easily the best warrior." the Sheriff agreed.

"That's good to hear. Unfortunately, that's the part of him I have trouble relating to. He comes from a family of bright minds. Academically inclined people. I don't get where this… taste for blood comes from. Especially since, if he applied himself, he could be on the healing end of it, instead of the one who inflicted the wound." Leofwin sighed.

"My men don't go around killing people just because they feel like it, Leofwin. I must make that clear. If anyone ever meets the pointy end of Nigel's sword, it's because they are a threat to others in the Village. He, as well as the rest of the Black Knights, are doing the Town, often the whole damn shire, a service." Nottingham said, firmly.

"Hmm. I suppose… I never stopped to consider that before." Leofwin frowned.

"He enjoys his work, and he's damn good at it." the Sheriff said.

"I'm still going to talk to him about a few things. Don't worry. I'm certain I'll have plenty of time to think on what to say. He lost a lot of blood. He's resisting taking opium for pain, too. He's quite weakened, but fighting to stay alert. He's going to crash at some point soon. His body was put through too much for me to expect for one moment that he won't sleep all through the night, and most of the morrow." Leofwin explained.

"I'm probably overstepping here, but try not to be harsh when you do. He's one of my best." the Sheriff reminded him.

"Indeed. And, we need him to recover because he has much to teach the rest of us." Mordrid added.

"That is true. That plan was already in the works before he took that arrow." Nichol said.

"He might not have the same interests you do, but we're kind of like brothers — the Black Knights. He's our friend, a comrade, and a brother to us all." Drake said, firmly.

"He certainly is!" Adam nodded.

"Thank you. It helps to know that my boy has friends here, and much support." Leofwin said.

"Why don't I send for some food and libations for us? You could probably do with something, since you were working in there a long while." the Sheriff suggested.

"I appreciate that, but I'll send for something once I get back to Nigel's rooms. Aela could probably do with some food, too. I'll send Thomas out and take over from him. He worked longer than I did." Leofwin said.

"Very well. Yes, both you and Lady Aeleanna are welcome to stay. I'm not about to send either of you away." the Sheriff nodded.

"Thank you, Milord." Leofwin smiled.

Richard made it to Nigel's rooms. He had a quick word with Thomas before he proceeded to the bedchamber. He found Aeleanna sitting on the bed beside Nigel. Nigel had his eyes closed, but he opened them soon after Richard walked in.

"I'm sorry. I don't mean to intrude." Richard said.

"You're not. I was just keeping him company." Aeleanna smiled.

"Get over… here, mate. Tell me… how the hell… I ended up… like this?" Nigel muttered.

"What?" Richard asked.

"He doesn't remember too much, Richard." Aeleanna said as she stood from the bed. "I'll leave you two to visit. I'll just be out in the den."

"Cheers, Leanna." Nigel smiled.

Richard advanced closer to the bed when Aeleanna left them. He took a seat on the chair beside the bed.

"Fuck, mate. They're all driving… me to madness. I actually wish I had… mead to drown out the… bollocks. Except Leanna, of course. It's the healers. My bleeding… father is here… for the love… of fuck, mate!" Nigel huffed.

"Nigel, we all thought you were going to… " Richard began, then looked to the floor, letting his words trail off.

"Die? Yeah… I've heard… that one. But, my father, Richard! What the bleeding… hell, mate?" Nigel huffed.

"Man, you might be dead right now if your father hadn't come to assist. Everything worked perfectly. Don't think on the details of it. Just rest and get better. Damn it, mate. We need you to show us a few things. None of us can fight like you can." Richard said.

"Cheers, mate. Now… tell me. What the hell… happened?"

"You seriously don't remember?"

"I remember some of it. There's gaps when… we were at… the warehouse." Nigel whispered.

"What's the last thing you remember, mate?" Richard asked, pointedly.

"That Gunter bloke… with the… bad beard… pointing his blade… at me. That's where… everything stops."

"Seriously?"

"Dead… serious, mate. Oh. Forgive the… poor word choice." Nigel sighed.

"Damn, mate! That's when you shined. You were kicking everyone's arse in there! Leaping on tables, kicking, swinging your sword at the same time. I think it was you alone that was scaring a few of those brotherhood blokes. It was you who put them all on notice." Richard said, excitedly.

"Oh. I did?"

"Yes." Richard nodded.

"Who the… hell shot me? How did that… come about?" Nigel asked.

It was that husky bald bloke. The rebels called him Fulke. He was aiming for the Sheriff. It happened so fast. No one saw you coming, but you took this… gigantic flying leap, landing directly in front of Milord with only about one second to spare. You became his shield. You shocked everyone who was there, I swear it, mate." Richard said, shaking his head as he recalled. He was still in disbelief over what he had witnessed.

"Hmm. I see. Well, what happened… to bald bloke?"

"I took care of the bastard straight after that." Richard nodded.

"Did you… run him through?"

"Damn right, I did, mate!" Richard scoffed.

"Cheers, mate." Nigel smiled.

"You never hesitated, Nigel. In those moments, you were the example to all of us of how a Black Knight should act. The men can't stop talking about it." Richard said.

"Are you… feeling alright, mate? You're… complimenting me. Which is funny… because I'm no… better than any one… of you. Even bleeding Alfred… has bested me… the whole damn… lot of us with… the crossbow, even… his longbow." Nigel pointed out.

"Not one of us can fight like you can, mate. Everyone agrees. Even Milord Sheriff agrees." Richard nodded.

"Strange… " Nigel said, shaking his head.

"It's not, really. But, the important thing is you're on the mend now. Now, you must focus on getting stronger."

"I'm strong already… mate. I'll be… fine. How was it… when you went… to Leanna?"

"Once she saw the Sheriff, she assumed the worst. She screamed out your name and proceeded to faint. She… loves you, mate."

"I know. I… love her, too. Thanks for being… there when he… went to tell her."

"No thanks needed, mate. It needed to be done. Is she staying with you tonight?" Richard asked.

"Yes. I put my… foot down with… Thomas about that. Unfortunately, my father… is staying, too. Fuck." Nigel sighed, softly. "He's going to… pester me about… marrying her. He always does. I… know him. And, he'll insist I… leave my… role here. Bloody hell… mate!" Nigel huffed.

"He's probably right about Aeleanna, but, he's wrong with the other part."

"If I… should ever ask her… it can't be because… dearest dad made… me do it! It has to… come from me. All me. She will… know the… difference." Nigel whispered, firmly.

"Of course, mate. Don't think of these things right now. I do have one… question, though. Been meaning to ask it for a long time." Richard hinted.

"What is it?" Nigel asked.

"How have you managed to… not get her pregnant in six years?" Richard asked, pointedly.

"You're jesting, right… mate?" Nigel smirked.

"No. I'm not." Richard sighed.

"Can't believe… no one could be… bothered to… educate you about that." Nigel whispered, shaking his head.

"I'd like to know. In case I ever… find a nice lady friend."

"You gotta… pull out before… you release, mate. It… takes control." Nigel grinned.

"Sounds damn messy to me." Richard frowned.

"Better than worrying… about a damn… baby coming, though, mate. It's not always… like that. You can also… finish in her mouth… or, her ar — "

"Damn, mate! Too much information!"

"You asked, Richard. That's all it is. Last thing I… needed was to… get her… fucking pregnant. But, I had to… have her. You can… fuck them senseless, mate. Bang them until… you're both… out of breath. But, you must stop… at the right… time, or you will be… truly fucked, mate." Nigel warned with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"I see. Good to know. Cheers mate."

Nigel chuckled.

"Can't believe nobody… told you this. Damn, Richard!"

"Well, I know now." Richard smirked.

"And, I also can't believe… I have a long… lecture from dearest dad… that's forthcoming." Nigel sighed.

"Don't think of that now, mate. Just rest. All is well. We've got this now, until you can rejoin us." Richard smiled.

"Cheers, mate. Now… go find… a pretty maid… and get some… pent up frustration out… of your system, mate. You'll feel… loads better. Trust me." Nigel winked. "And… on your way out… send my… girl in here. Nigel nodded.

"Damn, mate. You're still you." Richard smiled, and fist bumped his friend.

"Of course. All except for my… damn scar. Good thing… no one but… Leanna will be… seeing that." Nigel frowned.

"I'd rather have you scarred than dead, mate. I'll come by on the morrow. Sleep." Richard said, firmly. Then, he took his leave.

Leofwin had recently excused himself from the men and left the Council Quarters. The men who came in when Leofwin did were preparing to leave, when the Sheriff ordered them to take their seats.

"Has anyone heard if Castor, Alex, and Albert have returned from what's left of that warehouse?" the Sheriff asked around the table.

"No one's seen them since we left, Milord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Then, they shall receive their assignments upon arrival. We have work to do, men. The morrow is shaping up be a busy day, especially for some of you." he began as his eyebrow shot north, knowingly.

"What of our assignments, Milord?" Mordrid asked.

"We need to get many of the men prepared in case that sodding incursion happens. Nichol shall train Joseph, Aldred, and Borin with the crossbow. While they are training, Luke, Castor, and Albert are going to cover for them in the dungeon. Then, when they return, Nic, you and Richard will continue training Albert. We need to get him ready." the Sheriff instructed.

"Very well." Nichol nodded.

"Who is covering Borin, Milord?" Robert asked.

"I'll have Beric do it. Emory can manage without him at the portcullis, since the training session won't be long. At least, it shouldn't be with only three participants." the Sheriff nodded.

"Very well." Robert agreed.

"Duke, you shall have Alex, Drake, and, Adam. Hit the cave at Dead Man's Curve. That was a good lead Nigel had." the Sheriff said.

"Of course, Milord." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

"Once Luke and Castor are sprung from the dungeon, they will accompany Mordrid, Ancel, and Gerad on a jaunt to the market to see if anything can be uncovered about any of the remaining Jesus blokes, and information leading us to that Thorne bloke."

"Very well, Milord." Mordrid agreed.

Ancel, Luke, and Gerad nodded in agreement.

"Good. The three who are currently occupied must be notified as soon as they arrive." the Sheriff said.

"I'll take care of that, Milord." Duke Farnsworth offered.

"Perfect. And, inform Borin and Beric of tomorrow's plans, too." he added.

"It shall be done, Milord Sheriff." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

The meeting ended soon after that. Some of the men went to the Dining Hall. Some went to their rooms. Nichol decided he'd waited long enough to see Lady Kaeliss. After the events that had occurred, he decided not to wait any longer.

Thirty minutes later, he walked the cobblestone path to her door after securing his horse. She answered the door wearing her deep blue velvet dressing gown.

"Oh, good evening, Nichol." Kaeliss smiled.

"I hope you don't mind my dropping by unannounced." he said.

"Not at all. Come in out of the cold." she nodded, holding the door open for him.

Nichol stepped past the threshold and took a long exhale

"Nichol? Are you… quite yourself?" Kaeliss asked.

"It's been an… eventful evening." he muttered, evasively.

"I see. Can I get you something to drink? A cup of tea? Or, perhaps something stronger?"

"Tea sounds good, since I'm chilled to the bone, but… something stronger is definitely in order." Nichol sighed.

"I know just the thing. Please. Be seated by the fire. You really do look chilled." Kaeliss said, gesturing to the sofa in front of the fireplace.

"No Helewise tonight?" Nichol asked.

"No. It's just us." Kaeliss smiled.

"Good. I'm not in the mood for… friction." he muttered as he doffed his surcoat and took a seat on the sofa.

Kaeliss regarded him curiously, then left the sitting room.

A short time afterward, she returned with two steaming mugs for them.

"What's this?" he asked curiously, as he took the mug from her.

"It's warm mead with lemon and honey added." she smiled, and seated herself beside him.

He took a sip from the mug, and smiled at her.

"You're right, my dear. This is perfect." Nichol said, nodding to the mug.

"Nichol? What is going on? You seem preoccupied? Distracted by something."

"One of our men… nearly died a few hours ago. He was hit with an arrow."

"Oh, no! How is he now?"

"He's on the mend, thanks to a talented team of healers — one of whom was brought in to assist. The physician who came to the castle to assist… was the same one whom… saved my life." Nichol sighed, then he took a generous swill of the soothing, warm mead.

"I imagine that stirred up some disturbing memories." Kaeliss frowned, then took a sip of mead.

"Yes, but… I suppose I was bound to run into him sometime. I'm just glad our Knight is going to pull through. At least… it's looking like he will."

"And, I'm very grateful that man saved your life, too, Nichol."

"Are you?" Nichol asked.

"Of course, I am. Why wouldn't I be?"

"Because, all you really know about me is what I used to do for a living; what I do now; that my fucking leg will never be the same; and what I look like without clothes." he sighed.

"Right. Because we only just met five days ago." Kaeliss pointed out.

"Indeed." Nichol nodded.

"All of that will come, Nichol."

"I suppose you're right." he sighed.

"I can tell you're quite rattled by the events of this evening. Try to relax, handsome. You're here with me now." Kaeliss smiled.

Nichol paused a moment, staring into his mug before he continued.

"The mead is perfect, Kaeliss; but, perhaps I shouldn't have bothered you." he said, softly.

"You're not bothering me. I… missed you."

"I haven't been away from you that long, my dear. Not long enough to miss me."

"Are you saying you didn't miss me?"

"I… did." Nichol admitted with a sigh.

"Drink up, Nichol. You need to be at ease. You're not there yet." Kaeliss said, nodding to the mug held in his hand.

"You trying to get me drunk, Kaeliss?"

"No, but I would like to see you a little more relaxed."

Nichol nodded, then took a swill of the mead.

"You should never be anxious in my presence, Nichol."

"Sounds like you're trying to convince me of that." Nichol said.

"Not at all. It sounds like you're about to start an argument of some sort? Have I displeased you, Nichol?" Kaeliss asked, genuinely perplexed by his demeanour.

"No, Kaeliss. Forgive me. I am… just… conflicted."

"Conflicted? About what?"

"Conflicted because… I desire you. It's all I've thought about since I left you. I want you, Kaeliss, but… I don't want that to be the only thing we have in common." Nichol explained.

"I don't open my legs to just any man, Nichol. In fact, that's not me at all. I wanted you, and still do, because I feel something strongly for you. There's no denying it. From the first moment you looked into my eyes… I was smitten."

"Funny. I felt that, too." Nichol said, softly.

"Then, let me look after you, lover. I can do that in more than just one way. Let my home be your safe space." Kaeliss smiled.

"Alright, beautiful. It already feels like that — especially when… Helewise isn't here." Nichol smirked.

"You're alive, Nichol. I shall keep reminding you of that until it sinks in." Kaeliss smiled.

"I felt dead for years until just recently." he said.

"You're not dead. You're very much alive, and you mean so much to me."

"Because of what I can do for you… in the bedchamber?"

"No, Nichol. Not just because of that. It's because… you're perfect in my eyes." she said, softly.

"Kaeliss." he whispered. He put his arm around her and held her close to him.

She looked up into his green eyes, and softly kissed his cheek. Then, she kissed the corner of his mouth.

"God damn it, lady. You're getting me hard as steel again." he growled.

"Is that so bad?" Kaeliss asked.

"I suppose not, but let's just enjoy this moment. Talking, and drinking our mead. Then, you never know what might happen." Nichol smirked.

The Sheriff entered into his private chambers, grateful that the day was done, and that his best warrior appeared to be on the mend. He found Lady Rhiannon resting on the sofa in the den, reading Erec and Enide. She was dressed in her burgundy velvet dressing gown, sipping tea from a cup.

He doffed his surcoat and placed it over a chair.

"It's nice to see you actually relaxed, my lady. I take it our son is asleep in the bedchamber?" the Sheriff asked.

"I honestly don't know if he's asleep, my love. He's not in the bedchamber." Rhiannon replied.

"I thought we were minding him tonight?"

"No. Lady Margaret took him to his rooms. She is with him."

"But… Nigel — "

"Officer Nigel will be well tended to. His father is staying in his rooms. Thomas is staying in his usual quarters until the morrow. I'm certain that's because Master Rainecourt is a friend of his." Rhiannon explained. She set the book down on the sofa, and put her cup on a table, then went to him.

"Oh. How convenient for us, my lady." the Sheriff smirked.

"Yes. Isn't it?" she agreed.

"Where are you at with the cursed compresses, massage, and all of that other bollocks?"

"I finished that not too long ago. He also had a feed after that. I told Lady Margaret I need a night of peace. I'll feed him again in the morning." Rhiannon said.

"Perfect. Get over here, lady" he smirked.

He pulled her into an embrace and began kissing her. Softly at first, then hungrily.

"Come. We'll have some brandy, and I'll send for a tray after we get something out of the way." he winked. He grasped her hand and led her into the bedchamber.

Once inside the dimly lit bedchamber, they resumed kissing. A hot, languid kiss of yearning. He took her hand and placed it under his codpiece, holding it firmly against his crotch.

"Feel that, my lady?" the Sheriff smirked, salaciously.

"Mmm. Yes. Feels… good." she whispered, as she stroked him over his black leather breeches.

"Good. Because you're about to get it!" he growled.

He unfastened the sash of her dressing gown. The edges fell open, inviting his touch. He cupped one of her breasts and proceeded to suck on her nipple, while stroking her intimately.

"Hmm. Good and wet for me, I see." he whispered.

"Of course, lover." she whispered. She increased the pace and the pressure of her hold on him.

Soon, they were both unclothed, and ravenously giving in to desire. Lady Rhiannon bent over the bed, her right knee raised, and resting on the bed.

"Give it to me, lover. Let me feel all of you." Rhiannon purred as she looked over her shoulder at him.

"Oh, I plan to. Good thing you're ready, lady." he growled. Then, he entered her, and soon began to repeatedly thrust into her.

"Yes, sugar! Yes! God!… " she moaned, softly.

"You naughty little slut. You love this, don't you? Fuck, you feel good!" the Sheriff whispered into her ear.

"Yes, lover. Fuck me harder! Yes!" she squealed as she slammed into him.

She wouldn't normally speak to him in such a manner, but there was something animalistic about their coupling this time. She could feel it.

"Mmm, where has this woman been all this time, wife? The bad girl. I like her!" he growled. He slapped her buttocks to punctuate his words.

"Yes, George! Fuck! Yes!" she squealed in ecstasy.

The Sheriff tugged on her hair and leaned down to her.

"Damn it, lady. I can never get enough of you." he whispered into her ear while he moved inside of her.

A group of the Black Knights were gathered outside the Dining Hall, having just finished dining together. Present were Mordrid, Gerad, Drake, Adam, and Castor. They had just bid goodnight to Luke, and were now discussing the plans for the morrow.

"Hope it won't be too mad in the dungeon. There's a bunch of new Jesus blokes down there." Castor scoffed. Then, he narrowed his eyes as he observed something unusual in the distance. "Why is he heading in the opposite direction of the stairs?" Castor said to the men, nodding to Luke.

"Indeed. Where do you suppose he is going?" Adam asked.

"Hope he's not going to meet with Flower. That will surely get him in a heap of trouble. Perhaps we should track him, lads. If that's what he's up to, he needs reminding that Milord is on high alert for… this kind of activity." Mordrid said.

The men agreed, and they all followed several paces back behind Luke. They continued past the Dining Hall, past the Scribe's office, then the Sheriff's office.

"What the hell? Is he headed into the library?" Gerad asked, his blue eyes narrowed in disbelief.

"Ha! He might be well read, but I've never seen him read a boo — " Drake began, but was cut off.

"Read a book, man? Who the hell has time for that? Not one of us do. How do ye have time to read a book, Drake?" Castor challenged, quietly.

"Easy, Cas!" Mordrid admonished in a whisper.

"The point is, he's meeting Flower, for sure." Drake sighed.

"Who the hell is Flower?" Castor asked, curiously.

"We'll get to that later, Cas. Quiet now. We're approaching the door. Luke just went in there." Mordrid instructed in a whisper.

They stealthily entered into the library, and observed their comrade about fifty feet ahead, looking around him as he walked further inside.

"Is anyone here?" Luke called out.

Mordrid gave a look of warning to the men to keep quiet.

"Oh. Good." they heard Luke say.

The men gave curious looks to one another, then they turned toward Luke's direction when they suddenly heard humming.

"What the bleeding hell?" Adam asked.

"Doesn't seem like he came to meet Flower. Unless… this is some kind of musical mating call, or something." Drake smirked.

Castor squinted his brown eyes, tilting his head.

"I don't get it." he whispered.

"I suspect it will be revealed soon." Mordrid hinted.

"Are ye telling me ye can guess why he's cheerfully humming in this big old library, not technically alone, and in the bleeding dark?" Castor whispered, pointedly.

"Yes. Because he thinks he is alone. He can be loud, yet he cannot be heard." Mordrid said.

"Why would he need to be loud? He's only humming." Gerad pointed out.

Luke walked over to a large window that was six feet in height, about four feet wide, and set a foot up from the floor. Moonlight streamed through it providing a perfect lighting backdrop, rendering Luke a silhouette as he moved. The men noticed this. Then, Luke began to sing.

"Up all night,

Your body's twitching

With the urge to fight,

Can't stop now,

You head to town a tiger on the prowl."

"Damn, he's bleeding good!" Drake exclaimed in a whisper.

"He sounds great with the echo in here." Adam added.

"See the ladies

With their gowns laced tight,

They'll show you favours in the dead of night,

What will you ever do?

'Cause something has come over you." Luke sang, then added, speaking softly, "It's just a fantasy."

"No. Maybe put the part about the ladies and their enticing gowns in the second verse?" Luke muttered.

"Is he… composing a song?" Gerad asked the men, quietly.

"It appears that way. He's rehearsing it here. Maybe he wants to sing it at Nigel's party?" Mordrid opined.

"We don't even know if Nigel will be fit for that by then." Castor pointed out.

"It's always good to be prepared. If the party goes ahead, looks like Luke will be ready." a beat. "Glad I didn't need to remind him to keep it discreet with Flower." Mordrid whispered.

"Indeed. That would have been bloody awkward, even though it would have been for his own good." Adam said.

"Should we tell him we're here? Turns out, we only ended up spying on him." Gerad pointed out.

"No. We shouldn't disturb him. He's busy. You're right, though. Let's leave quietly, men." Mordrid directed them.

Things had rapidly progressed at Lady Kaeliss' manor after she brought out a second serving of the warm mead. They continued talking, drinking nearly all of their mead. Soon, they were kissing hotly. That led to Lady Kaeliss positioned on her knees before him, between Nichol's muscled thighs, deftly working him with her mouth and her tongue for a glorious while, in Nichol's mind. He held her head in his hands, growing increasingly excited as he watched her fervently please him.

Now, Nichol had her up against a wall, taking her in wild abandon. His breeches were pooled around his ankles. Her dressing gown was open. Her left leg was lifted up, wrapped around his right hip as he thrusted inside of her.

"Mmm. Give it to me, Nichol. You feel so good." Kaeliss moaned.

"God damn, lady." Nichol growled. "You're such an amazing fuck!"

"Nichol." she breathed. "You like that?"

"Damn right, I do. You turn me into solid rock every time, beautiful." he whispered.

"Good. Give it to me, lover. Harder!" she pleaded.

He began to pump her harder and faster, and they continued like that for quite a time. Until, Nichol was losing rhythm, and Kaeliss sensed that his leg may be tiring. She stopped, lowering her left leg.

"Let's go back to the sofa, lover. Let me ride you." Kaeliss purred. Then, she kissed him deeply, and finished by lightly biting on his lower lip.

"Damn, beautiful! You know so many ways to keep my cock hard. Very well." Nichol smirked. He pulled up His breeches and grabbed his walking stick.

"Come, my lady. I'm still hard as rock for you." he whispered as he grabbed her hand, then led her back to the sofa.

He placed his walking stick against a table beside the sofa. Next, he pulled down his breeches, then sat on the sofa.

Kaeliss stood before him and shrugged out of her dressing gown. She was completely naked.

"Kaeliss, you're so beautiful. Hop on, my lady. Let me give you the ride of your life." he smirked, salaciously at her.

"Mmm… Nichol." she purred as she climbed on top of him. Then, she slowly lowered herself on to him.

"Still fucking wet for me. Damn, lady!" Nichol growled.

"It's all for you, lover. You do that to me. Oh, Nichol… give it to me!" she squealed as she bounced on top of him.

"Fuck, lady! I'm gonna explode!"

"Nichol!" Kaeliss shrieked in pure ecstasy.

Luke was finishing up an impromptu rehearsal in the library. He had managed to fully compose the song he was working on, coming up with lyrics for the second verse which he kept stumbling on until singing it out just now. A short time ago, he penned a quick note using writing supplies that were available in there, and asked a sentry who was patrolling the corridor on the main level to take it to Mortianna, before he went back in the library to finish up.

He left the library, softly closing the doors, and made his way to the staircase. He thought about knocking on Floria's door as he ascended the stairs, but then he thought better of it. He wasn't in the right frame of mind for a visit. Floria would have questions about what was troubling him, and he didn't feel free to share those details. Even if he did, he still wouldn't wish to share it, because she would worry about him coming to harm, too.

Once he made it to the second floor, he headed to his rooms. He could see Ancel down the hall, standing at a door. He smirked, shaking his head. He already passed Ancel's door. Ancel must be visiting Rebeccah. Luke sighed. If Floria were a bit older, he might go to her and ravish her right now, too. He certainly understood why any man who was present when Nigel was shot with the arrow would wish to lose them self in the pleasures of the flesh for awhile, to purge those images out of their head.

He went inside his rooms, closing the door. Then, he went to the desk in the den, and seated himself at it. He dipped his quill in the ink jar and began to write the music on parchment for his song he had been working on. Soon, there was a soft knocking on his door. He set the quill down and went to answer it.

The witch smiled up at him when the door opened.

"Your tea, child. I brought a small pot of it, in case you'd like more than one cup. If not, it reheats well. Ye could have the second cup any time ye like." Mortianna said.

"Thank you, Mortianna. I am most grateful. This, and my music helps to distract, and take the edge off." Luke said, then mentally chastised himself for being too verbose again. He was certain it was because fatigue was setting in. He took the covered pot from her.

"Music?" Mortianna asked.

"Yes. I write songs." Luke said, simply.

"Hmm. If ye write them, I'd guess ye can play one of those musical instruments. Do ye sing, as well?"

"Yes, to both questions. I play… a few instruments."

"Are ye… having a laugh just now, child? Or, are ye worse than I thought you were?" Mortianna frowned.

"Neither, Madam. It is the truth." Luke said. He sighed. "I know. Who ever heard of a musically inclined Knight, right?"

"Does anyone else know this about ye, child?"

"Yes. A few." Luke replied, modestly.

"Does… he know this?"

"Yes. Milord Sheriff was the first to know. Or, I guess the second. He… overheard me singing to my… friend." Luke explained.

"Oh, my. I'd like to hear it sometime, Luke." Mortianna smiled.

"Would you like to come in? I could sing you… a little something I wrote." Luke suggested. No. What are you doing? You just invited the Sheriff's witch into your rooms? The lads would never believe this.

"I should like that very much, child. It's been a very trying time this evening. It might do us both some good." Mortianna smiled.

Luke held the door open and gestured for her to take a seat near the fireplace.

Rebeccah was startled when she heard the knock on her door. She pulled her navy velvet dressing gown closer about her, retying the sash before she opened the door.

"Ancel? Oh, my. You're so pale! Are you alright?" Rebeccah asked.

"Forgive me for coming by so late. Something happened earlier, and… I needed to see you." Ancel sighed, softly.

"Come in." she smiled, as she held the door for him.

Once the door was closed, he exhaled and looked to the floor.

"What's going on, Ancel? Is it something bad?" Rebeccah asked once more.

"Yes, it was. It was… frightening, but, it's… better now, I guess." he whispered, evasively.

"What is it, Ancel?"

"It was… something I witnessed."

"Can you speak of it? Are you in danger?" Rebeccah asked, fretfully.

"I'm not in danger, my love. Neither are you. Not while you stay in this castle. I… can't really comment about what I saw, however." Ancel said.

"It must have been dreadful. You look a fright." Rebeccah said, softly. She moved in closer to him and grasped both of his hands.

"Rebeccah… " Ancel whispered. He pulled her into an embrace, and kissed her softly. Then, he took in her attire. "Oh. Damn. Did I wake you? Forgive me, my love."

"I was reading, in my bed. I wasn't asleep." Rebeccah said. "Ancel? Can you say anything about what you saw? Any little thing? No details are required. I just want to know what has you rattled."

"Tonight, I was reminded how precarious and fleeting life can be. You breathe life into me. I needed to be in your presence." Ancel whispered.

"Ancel." Rebeccah whispered as she kissed him again.

"My love… are you wearing anything under that pretty dressing gown?"

"No. I took a bath earlier. I was feeling a little warm." she whispered.

"How… convenient." Ancel smirked, as he deftly unfastened the sash that held her dressing gown closed.

Next, he ran his hands over the length of her body. Then, he squeezed and cupped her breasts as he bent down to suck on her nipples, while simultaneously touching her intimately.

"Mmm… Ancel." she moaned.

"You're ready for me. So am I. I need you, Rebeccah." Ancel whispered, urgently.

"Then, come to my bed, my love. Let me take care of you." Rebeccah whispered.

She grabbed his hand and led him into the bedchamber. They kissed hungrily as they removed one another's clothes. Next, Rebeccah laid upon the bed, reclined against several pillows, opening her legs to him.

He was on her in moments, plunging deep into her ocean, and pumping her hard; channeling all of the shock and anger over what he had witnessed with Nigel into his movements, making her squeal with ecstasy.

"Ancel. You're so good to me." Rebeccah moaned.

"Damn, woman! I'm going to lose it. Fuck!" he growled.

In Luke's chambers, he was surprised how easy his conversation with Mortianna was going. He felt like he was revisiting his great grandmother, in some ways. The witch seemed wise. He reasoned that her counsel was valued by Milord Sheriff, and that was good enough for Luke.

"It's been a long time since I've listened to music. What will ye entertain me with?" the witch asked.

"It's based on a story that my father told my mother. It's called "Night Mage". Of everything I've come up with, you'd probably relate most to that one." Luke nodded, surprising even himself that he was agreeing to this in the first place.

"I see. Will ye play one of your instruments with it, child?"

"Very well. I shall play my gittern. Softly, though." Luke said. He stood and went into the bedchamber.

He returned within moments, carrying it. He took a seat, and positioned it on his lap, his left hand on the neck, the right over the strings on the body of the instrument.

"It will be a challenge to hit the high notes in a soft voice, but I shall try." Luke said, beginning the melody on the gittern. "I'm not going to do the whole thing, but this is the third verse, and the chorus."

The witch took in a breath, and smiled. Then, Luke surprised her with the pleasing tone and quality of his voice as he began to softly sing...

"In the darkness

She awaits the summons,

Always waiting,

Like she knew me.

Saw those eyes,

And I was come undone,

She peered into me,

She looked right through me!

And I can't begin to explain,

I find it hard to say

Her deep blue eyes, they found me,

And they seized me in their gaze,

I can't begin to tell you,

But should you ever need,

Those sapphire eyes you'll only see if you should meet the

Night mage,

Beautiful sage." Luke sang, completing the song.

Mortianna smiled, and began to applaud.

"Oh, my! That was quite lovely, child! Thank you for that. I can barely even remember the last time I heard anyone sing. That was delightful!" Mortianna exclaimed, merrily.

"Really? That long since you last heard music?"

"Indeed. I'll explain further in a moment, but first… is that based on a real person, child? She… sounds like someone I knew." Mortianna frowned.

"That's what I was told. I couldn't verify it, though. It was a tale my mother told me, which she said was told to her by my father. He died when I was young, so I couldn't confirm that with him. But, it was about a — " Luke started to explain, but was interrupted.

"About a powerful, blue eyed witch whom was dubbed the Night Mage in tales told of her." Mortianna nodded.

"You know of such a story?" Luke asked, quite astonished. He seldom heard anyone else speak of it.

"Aye. I knew her, too. She was my sister, Sanguinella." Mortianna announced.

"Are you… serious?" Luke asked, incredulously.

"Aye. She was quite comely. Quite powerful, too. She could do things I cannot. For whatever queer reason, anytime she was found out, it was always after sundown. She was too reckless with it. Foolish girl!" Mortianna exhaled sharply.

"What happened to her, Madam? You spoke of her in past tense."

"She was executed, child. That is the problem when a witch possesses certain powers, and either cannot control them, or uses them recklessly. For my sister, it was the latter. It was to her detriment." Mortianna said.

"I'm sorry to hear such news, Madam." Luke said, sombrely.

"Thank you, child. It's well in the past now. It was… pleasing to hear a lovely tune about her. It's been a long while. Eleven years since I heard music."

"Why so long?" Luke asked, curiously.

"I had an unfortunate accident befall me on a gloomy day in eighty six. I was… working on fire magick." Mortianna said, evasively.

She didn't think it best to reveal it was Byzantine fire she was working on at the time, and still labours on to this day. That late summer day was one of her first attempts, which yielded disastrous results.

"If I may… was that the accident that injured your right eye, Madam? I'm guessing it was injured somehow." Luke asked, gently.

"Indeed. Cursed fire! It took my sight, and ruined my once glorious locks. My hair was as pretty and shiny as any lady you see in this castle. I was never as comely as Sanguinella, but I certainly didn't look like this, either." Mortianna sighed. "After that happened, I… preferred a life of solitary. And so… I didn't hear music anymore. I stayed away from merriment." the witch explained.

"That's a shame, Madam." Luke frowned.

"Thank you for the lovely tune about my sister. She won't be forgotten anymore, because of you. Ye are a good boy, Luke." Mortianna nodded with a smile.

"Yes, Gre — Mortianna. Uh… Thank you." Luke stammered. He was grateful he caught himself before accidentally calling her, "Great Granny". It was when she called him a "good boy", that he was strongly reminded of his late great grandmother.

The witch left soon after that. Luke finished his cup of batwing tea, and was pleased to be finally feeling relaxed enough to sleep after such a harrowing evening.

Lady Gunilda stumbled to her front door, wondering who would be knocking at this time of night? She smiled when she opened the door.

"Mmm. There you are, handsome."

"My lady." Drake whispered.

"Drake? Why do you appear to be out of sorts? Has something happened?" she asked as she held the door open for him.

She had a very good idea what was troubling him, but he could never know that she used an invisibility spell on herself to sneak into Officer Nigel's rooms, to summon deities to heal him.

Drake walked through the threshold and sighed, as she closed the door.

"What is it, handsome? Something has you vexed." Gunilda said.

"Earlier… I was reminded of how… short life can be." Drake frowned.

"Hmm." Gunilda nodded. She guessed Drake may have witnessed the moment that Officer Nigel was hit with the arrow. "Someone was hurt, I'm guessing."

"Yes. It looked… very bad for awhile." Drake said, softly.

"But… what about now? Are things… better now?" Gunilda asked, curiously.

"Yes. I think so. But, the incident surely took the wind out of a few of our sails." Drake sighed.

"I see. I'm sorry to hear that, Drake. Shall I get you a drink?"

"No. I'll take that later. First, I need to fuck you, my lady. I need you to remind me that I am alive." Drake said, matter of factly.

"Mmm. Say no more, handsome. That, I can do." Gunilda smirked.

She knelt before him and slowly removed his codpiece, and unfastened his breeches. Then, she worked him into a frenzy using her hands and her mouth, slowly, then rapidly sucking and stroking him for quite a time.

"God damn, lady! Fuck!" Drake exclaimed, throwing his head back, sharply inhaling.

Gunilda stopped, then stood before him.

"Come to my bed, Drake." she said.

"I shall be glad to. Let's do this. I'll need to get back soon. I've an early start in the morning. But, right now, I'm going to give it to you so damn hard." Drake smirked.

"Good. I'm looking forward to it." Gunilda grinned, then led him into her bedchamber.

And so, the night was quite amorous for the Sheriff and some of his men. Each of them releasing their pent up frustration from what they had witnessed earlier in the warehouse; or, in Nichol's case, the image of Richard carrying Nigel up to his rooms. They were, in a sense, saying, "Fuck you" to the grim reaper. Death had nearly claimed one of their own. They each needed reminding of what gave them life, and what made them fight. And, they were celebrating that Nigel gave the biggest "Fuck you" of all to death.

But, they weren't considering that death always lurks, and that it didn't care what anyone felt about it.

They were unaware that while they were giving into raw pleasure, that Nigel was sweating, and violently shivering in his bed.