On Friday, just predawn, Lady Rhiannon awoke with a shiver. The blanket had been moved off of her shoulders, and the fire in the fireplace had burned out. She tried, but, was having difficulty attempting to get warm. She decided that since she was awake she would go to the stables to check on her horse. She was planning to do that later anyway, but, maybe the walk would warm her and she could get that task out of the way now.

She crept out of bed slowly and softly, careful not to wake her betrothed. Then she quietly and quickly dressed, adding her black velvet cape to keep her warm in the autumn air. Very quietly she left the chambers and went on her way.

The sky was still dark. The air was crisp, yet damp. The smell of damp autumn leaves were heavy in the air. Burning torches lined the pathways outside creating a mystical aura. Rhiannon pulled her cape close about her and walked directly to the stables. She greeted the stable master, briefly explaining why she was there, and asked him to leave her to her horse. The stable master dutifully waited outside of the stables.

She was walking along inside the stables and was passing an empty stall right beside where her horse was kept. She glanced in that direction while walking by. Rhiannon stopped in her tracks and slowly walked backward, looking to her right again inside of the stall. What was that in there?

She walked inside and greeted a strange object. It was a stuffed man. Beside it was a bow and a quiver filled with arrows. Rhiannon smiled.

'Oh, now this might be just the perfect activity! I've always wished to perfect this skill to protect myself. Would anyone notice their absence, just for a few days? … ' she thought.

Rhiannon bent down and took the stuffed man, the bow, and the quiver of arrows. The quiver had a strap on it, so she slung it over her shoulder under the cape. Then she visited the next stall over to check on her horse. After a brief visit with her horse, Sugarstar, she exited through a back door out of the stables.

Everything she held was covered by her cape. She still needed to figure out how she'd conceal them if her betrothed was awake when she returned to the chambers. There was a shed near to the stables. She briefly considered it, but there would be too many eyes noticing her going in and out of there. She couldn't think of anywhere outside the castle she could hide them where no one could see them, so she'd have to keep them somewhere in the chambers for now.

When she returned, the Sheriff was in the den. He was just buttoning his doublet, looking like he was leaving.

"My, you're starting early today, George." Rhiannon commented.

"Not really, my lady. I was actually going to look for you. The last time I awoke this early and noticed your absence there were grave results, if you recall." the Sheriff said, dryly.

"Oh, I haven't forgotten, my love." Rhiannon remarked.

You'd be surprised. He thought.

"Were you actually outside — at this hour?" the Sheriff asked.

"Yes, just for a brief stroll. Would you give me a minute, my love? I'll be right with you." Rhiannon said.

Before he could respond she strolled to the private chamber, entered in, then closed the doors behind her. Rhiannon quickly scanned the room looking for a good place to conceal her items. The best bet at the moment was right in front of her. She quickly tucked the items under the bed, then stood up, removed her cape and gown, and gently tossed them over the same chair yesterday's gown was upon. She was wearing her shift, and wrapped herself in her burgundy velvet dressing gown. She had just walked across the room and was holding some kindling to the torch beside the fireplace, when the doors opened and the Sheriff walked in.

"What are you doing, my lady? I can take care of the fire." Nottingham said as he walked closer toward her.

"It's not like my arms are broken, George." Rhiannon sighed as she placed the burning kindling into the fireplace, arranging more kindling around it.

"I know, my lady. You get back under the blanket, and I'll put the log on it." the Sheriff suggested.

She nodded and followed his directive, for, she was feeling chill again from the biting cool dampness of the outside air. Although, she was rather pleased with the serendipitous discovery made in the stables.

After he placed the log on the fire, he removed his doublet then went to join his lady on the bed.

"Are you warming, my angel?" the Sheriff asked.

"Indeed." Rhiannon smiled.

"What would possess you to go for a walk at this time? After what happened to you a year ago, my lady?" he asked pointedly.

Truthfully, she never gave the matter any thought. It was like she was just naturally inclined to wander; to seek the outdoors. She was surprised the thought of her abduction at the same time of day never occurred to her.

"I woke up chilled, my love. I thought maybe some fresh air might do me some good, since I was feeling a little queasy." she lied. "I was quite brief. The air is colder than I imagined it would be, so, I returned directly. You're right, though. Perhaps it was far too early to be going for a stroll."

"You could've just went over to the window." the Sheriff reminded her.

"Yes, and I will do next time, my love." Rhiannon smiled.

The Sheriff laid supine on top of the blanket beside her, with his arm around her as she nestled against him.

"Aren't you cold, my love? You don't want to get under the blanket?" Rhiannon asked.

"It's actually quite warm, my lady. And there's no use in me getting too comfortable because it will soon be time for me to start my day." the Sheriff said.

"That's too bad, George." Rhiannon sighed.

"Not really. It pays for our lovely lifestyle." he winked.

"Of course. So, are the men going to be looking for that one whom you and Robert were speaking of?" she pried.

"They will be venturing out again on another search mission, my dear. Yes. Other than that I can't comment on it as the investigation is — "

"Still active. Yes, I know." Rhiannon sighed.

"You mustn't concern yourself with that, my lady. My men and I have a plan and we will capture the outlaw I seek." the Sheriff said.

"Yes. I know you will. I guess I'm just hoping that when the outlaw is captured you'll finally let me venture beyond the walls surrounding the property of the castle." Rhiannon hinted.

"Right. We'll talk about that then. There's other reasons I don't want you to venture too far. We need to get you over a few hurdles first." he sighed.

"This better not be the case for my entire confinement, George. You know I shall go mad." Rhiannon pointed out.

"Yes. I'm aware, my lady. It hasn't been that long since you had pain and were threatening to go into labour. You know it's far too soon for that. If the child is born at this time, nothing can be done to save the child. That is what I know." the Sheriff said firmly.

"I suppose that's true…" she began.

"There's no supposing about it, Rhiannon. That is a fact. You're a clever lady. You know this. I'm sure you can find something to occupy you in the meantime, couldn't you?" he asked.

"Yes. Indeed, I can, my love." she smiled as she thought of the exciting afternoon she had planned with the bow and arrows that were safely tucked under the bed.

"You should try and rest a bit more, my angel. You didn't sleep well from the looks of it." he smiled.

"Yes, I did awaken rather early." Rhiannon smiled.

"What did you have planned for later? Will there be any more beauty treatments and lessons today?" the Sheriff grinned.

"No, not today. I thought I'd venture out into the gardens in the afternoon to read my book." Rhiannon lied.

She enjoyed her books, but, there would be no reading being had today. She had greater plans for the afternoon. She hoped she could remember the pointers that her brothers gave her many years ago before they went off to the Crusade.

"It might be chill. Make sure you're dressed accordingly. We don't want you catching a chill, and possibly getting sick with Zeus knows what." the Sheriff warned.

"I doubt I will be chilled, but, you're right. I will dress warmly, my love." Rhiannon said. "You mustn't worry so much. I will stay on the property." Rhiannon smiled.

"That's good to hear, Rhiannon. You've given me enough frights in the last year. Enough to last me a lifetime, if the truth be told." he muttered, as he softly kissed her cheek.

An hour later the Sheriff was meeting with Guy and Duke Farnsworth in the Council Quarters. They were discussing the plans for today's search.

"What should we do about Ancel and Mordrid, Cousin? Should they come along with the rest of us, or should we have them go back to Hood's former camp?" Guy asked.

"Keep then with you as you search the Village. Make sure they aren't wearing the uniform of the Black Knights, however. I want them to blend in, in the event that the stumpy bloke might come across them." Nottingham advised. "Just a tip I've learned from Ancel." he grinned, knowingly.

"We'll stick to the Village for the better part of the day and circle around to the forest come afternoon, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Sounds like a good plan. Let's hope you have better luck finding the cursed little insect today." the Sheriff said.

The men were waiting at the stables for their Captain and Lieutenant to arrive before departing on the search mission. Mordrid walked out of the stables leading his horse by the reins, looking downcast.

Adam was the first to notice as the others were talking. He nudged Luke with his elbow and then nodded toward Mordrid.

"Are you quite yourself, Mordrid? I'm not being funny, but, you look like you just lost your best mate or something." Luke said.

"Cursed thieves!" Mordrid spat.

"What's happened, Mordrid? Can we help?" Ancel asked.

"You know a good bow craftsman?" Mordrid retorted, while pushing his flaxen locks from his eyes.

"That would be Samson. The best bow craftsman in the Village. But, what in the devil are you talking about, Mordrid?" Gerad asked.

"Some cursed thief stole my bow, my quiver of arrows, and the stuffed man I brought back from Hood's former camp. When I get my hands on him, I'll throttle him! Bastard!" Mordrid huffed.

"Where did you put them?" Alex asked.

"In an empty stall between my horse and another horse." Mordrid sighed.

"Maybe you should've put them in the same stall as your horse?" Gerad quipped.

"And risk the horse soiling them? Right. Good plan, Gerad." Mordrid shook his head and sighed.

"Well, at least you'd have your bow and arrows if you did. They may have needed cleaning, but — " Gerad was interrupted.

"Why should I have expected a thief to steal into the Sheriff's stables, Gerad? The entire property is guarded, for God's sake! You know horses just go anywhere. They don't care what might lie under their hindquarters. They're horses!" Mordrid exclaimed.

"True. It is rather odd." Gerad conceded. "Though, I always keep my weapons with me. Maybe that's just me… "

Mordrid sighed.

"We shall get to the bottom of this, Mordrid." Adam vowed.

"Indeed." Mordrid nodded.

"Perhaps the stable master moved your weapons, friend. Why don't we ask him?" Alex suggested.

"Aye. That's definitely a start. Speak with suspect number one. At the very least, he could be a potential witness." Ancel nodded.

"Good idea, Alex; and, I concur, Ancel." Luke nodded to them. He turned back to Mordrid. "Come, Mordrid. Let's go speak with him now." Luke said. He had Alex take the reins of Mordrid's horse, then he led Mordrid back to the stables.

Mordrid followed, though, he wasn't feeling optimistic about the situation.

Luke and Mordrid were speaking with the stable master in a matter of moments.

"You, Sir. What is your name?" Luke asked the stable master directly.

"It is Gervase, Sir. Is there a problem?" the stable master asked.

"Yes. My comrade here left some items right here in the stables, but, now they are missing. Would you know anything about that?" Luke asked pointedly.

"Are you talking about that man sized rag doll thing and the weapons that were left with it?" Gervase asked.

"Yes. I had them placed in an empty stall beside where my horse was being kept." Mordrid said.

"Yes. I saw them. They should still be there." the middle aged man with greying hair said, shaking his head, somewhat perplexed.

"When did you last see them?" Mordrid asked.

"About two to three hours ago, when I was walking about to check on the horses, right before I was cleaning some of the stalls."

"Has anyone come by here before us, Gervase?" Luke asked.

"Well, no. No one came by." Gervase replied.

Of course, he knew that the Sheriff's lady visited rather early to check on her own horse, but, what on earth would a lady want with a bow and a bunch of arrows? He couldn't fathom the notion. He didn't consider her while responding to Luke, because the idea of it made zero sense to him.

"Well, someone took them! Maybe it was you?" Mordrid said with his eyebrow quirked over his narrowed blue eyes.

"I would have no use for them, Sir. My eyesight is poor. I would be useless with a bow." the stable master admitted.

"Curses! Then who snuck in here under your watch, and helped himself to my weapons? I am one in the Sheriff's militia. I require my weapons to perform." Mordrid said firmly.

"That, I do not know. I didn't hear anything, and I didn't see anyone, either. No one has been in here since last night." the stable master said.

"You better not be lying!" Mordrid shouted.

"What in God's nightgown is going on here?" Guy interrupted them.

Duke Farnsworth stood beside Guy, as both men were heading into the stables to retrieve their horses.

"We have a bit of a problem, Sir Gisborne. It seems — " Luke was cut off.

"Some cursed thief stole my weapons, Sir! I had my bow and arrows in the empty stall next to my horse. They are gone. And, Who's-it here has no idea how that happened." Mordrid huffed as he indicated the stable master to Guy.

"It will be fine, Mordrid. I have an extra sword you can have until we can get another bow crafted for you. We shall speak to Samson about a new bow for you when we have a moment to do so today." Duke Farnsworth said calmly.

"You had best keep a closer eye in here. We can't have the knights' weapons going missing again, or worse, the horses!" Guy said sternly to Gervase, the stable master.

"Aye, Sir Gisborne." Gervase nodded, and looked downcast.

"This is a load of codswallop, and you know it! The Sheriff shall be hearing about this, I promise you." Mordrid warned the stable master.

"Indeed." the stable master sighed.

"Indeed. If it's not you, Gervase, then we best alert the Sheriff to this matter." Guy said.

"We haven't the time just now, Guy. We need to head out. I'll have a chat with the men guarding the gates to be on the lookout. We can discuss this with the Sheriff at our evening report." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Indeed. Tell them to be watching for common thieves, anyone suspicious who might be trying to gain access." Guy directed. "I seriously doubt it's that stumpy bloke we're looking for because he'd never get past the guards, and they have been informed of the matter. They know his description and they'd spot that bloke — who stands out like a giant festering wound, by the way — in a heartbeat." the Lieutenant added with a knowing glance.

"Of course." the Duke said, suppressing a grin.

"In the meantime, give your spare sword to Mordrid. It will have to suffice until we can get a bow crafted for him." Guy said.

"I swear I'll throttle the thieving bloke when I find him." Mordrid spat.

"I'm sure. We will deal with this, Mordrid. For now, you will use the extra sword the Captain has on hand." Gisborne said.

Mordrid sighed. "Very well, Sir Gisborne." he said.

About an hour before midday, the Sheriff was informed by the page that there was a lady waiting to see him in the Council Quarters.

"Who is it?" the Sheriff asked.

"Right. Birdie? Birgid? It sort of sounds like those names, Sir." the young lad shrugged.

Nottingham quirked his left eyebrow at the lad.

"You really should have a consultation with my personal physician about that hearing problem of yours." the Sheriff sighed.

He then continued walking along the main floor to reach the Meeting chamber.

He entered into the Council Quarters and dismissed the guard who was with the woman.

The woman turned around to greet him. She was dressed in a drab coloured gown and wearing a black chiffon scarf to cover her hair. Her amber eyes looked familiar, but, he couldn't place her.

"Milord Sheriff." Madam Birghiva nodded, as she lowered the scarf from her head to reveal the flaming red hair beneath it.

It was the first time he'd seen her natural appearance, rather than adorned with the cursed beauty paint she always used on her face.

"Madam Birghiva? I did not recognize you." Nottingham said, as he approached her.

"Yes, well, I couldn't exactly show up looking too obvious. It's not seemly for me to be here, as you know. But, you also know what your instructions to me were." she hinted as her eyebrow quirked knowingly. "I have news, Milord. I felt it best to deliver it in person." the Madam announced.

"She's back, isn't she? The cursed little bitch." Nottingham spat.

"Aye. She arrived sometime in the night. I only just found out about it — from one of my newer gals. You've met her, apparently — because I haven't heard the end of it ever since." Madam Birghiva smirked.

"Let me guess. She's small, blond haired, and nearly a child." Nottingham shook his head.

"Aye. She keeps saying how you're quite appealing for a… mature gentleman —- and I'm paraphrasing that politely." the Madam said with a knowing glance.

"Oh, I'm sure. What more can you tell me?" the Sheriff pressed.

"I only just heard about it before venturing here because Floria — the new gal, was sleeping all morning. She showed for breakfast late morning and decided then to tell me that Celestria arrived during the night." a beat. "Of all times of the day. I swear she hasn't learned a thing." Madam Birghiva sighed.

"Did this Floria girl have anything else to say about her?" the Sheriff asked.

"The only things she commented on were the timing of Celestria's arrival, and that she was looking a little bit stout. Floria said her face seemed round." the Madam shrugged.

"That's alright. Her head will deflate at the hanging — if I let her live long enough for that." the Sheriff said with a sneer.

"Milord?"

"She poisoned me, Madam. I told you this. The punishment for betrayal, and definitely attempted murder, is death. She was given sufficient warning of this." Nottingham said firmly.

"I see. What would you have me do now?" Madam Birghiva asked.

"Nothing. Proceed as normal. Your prompt reporting of the matter is duly noted. I shall surprise the little wretch, and you shall be free to run your establishment." the Sheriff said.

"Very well, Milord." Madam Birghiva nodded.

She grabbed the chiffon scarf, quickly fashioned it about her head, then took leave of the Sheriff.

Just before midday, Rhiannon was walking out through the gardens in back of the castle property. She was heading to the area far in back of the labyrinth of hedges, flowers, and shrubbery where she wouldn't be spotted. There was a slightly wooded area between the gardens and the walls surrounding the property that was far from the castle. She saw no guards in the vicinity. She was pleased.

She continued walking far into the wooded area. She knew the wall surrounding the property in this area was still quite a length away. Once she was safely tucked in there about twenty yards into it, she found a tree that was perfectly placed offering a clean line of fire in each direction. She set the bow and the quiver of arrows down, then set about fastening the stuffed man to the tree with the lengths of rope that were attached to it.

Satisfied, Rhiannon grabbed the bow and the arrows then stood five yards away. It had been years since she attempted this so she had to begin slowly. She thought of the instructions that Robert and Edward gave her when they spent a summer teaching her the ways of the bow.

"Keep your feet at least shoulder width apart, Rhiannon. Have your toes always pointed in the direction of your target."Edward had said to her.

Rhiannon smiled at the memory. They had an enjoyable summer that year. She assumed the stance that Edward had taught her.

"You hold the bow with your non dominant hand on the grip at the centre of it. Keep your arm in close to your body. The arrow is loaded and fired with your dominant hand. You want to get it in the centre of the riser of your string."Robert had instructedher. "Like this."he demonstrated with his own bow and an arrow taken from the quiver that they were using.

"Your first few shots should be done with your eyes closed, Sister. You want to be completely in tune with the bow and the motion required to fire it." Edward said.

"Yes, Edward. Very good points." Robert agreed. He looked to Rhiannon and continued. "And, take a breath in before you release the arrow, Sis. You can do this. Hold your right elbow up as you aim that arrow."

"Yep! Aim it, take a breath. Close your eyes, and fire the shot." Edward directed her.

"Do it, Rhiannon. After you've done it with your eyes closed a few times, you can try it with your eyes open. The point right now is is to get comfortable with the bow. It is an extension of you. Robert added.

"Indeed. It is a machine. A weapon, dearest. And, you control it! You're going to love it! Edward said, excitedly.

She was glad to have remembered her brothers' instructions. She did very well with it after practicing with them for a couple of months. She hoped it would be easy to relearn the skill now, as a result of those lessons. She raised her bow with her left hand, and loaded it with her right. She focused in on the target, took a breath, closed her eyes, and let the arrow release.

She opened her eyes and watched the arrow go as far as about six feet in front of her. It hit nothing. It just landed flat on the ground.

"Curses! How do men do this? This is lunacy." Rhiannon muttered aloud with a sigh.

She kept it up, practicing over and over again. After about an hour of making no progress at all, she stopped. She put the bow down for a moment, resting it against another tree beside her, then took sips of water from the flask she pulled out of the pocket of her cape.

She put the flask back, then grabbed a handkerchief from her pocket to mop the perspiration from her brow. She stuffed it in her cape pocket and tried again.

This time she hit the stuffed man. Not exactly in the center of the chest area, it was closer to the groin, in fact; but, considering her eyes were closed when she fired the arrow, she was quite pleased with herself. With her next attempts she kept her eyes open.

After some time had passed she was able to hit the stuffed man's chest. She collected the arrows, then positioned herself farther away. Now she was at ten yards from her target.

Rhiannon kept at it for quite awhile longer. She was determined to master the bow. She was enjoying her afternoon. She decided this would be her new activity now. It gave her freedom, physical activity, bettered her skills, and once she mastered it, it would offer her protection. She paid no attention to the time passing. She would continue practicing each day. For now, she still had a lot of ground to cover with her practice, so she kept at it.

The Sheriff ran into Lady Meridwyn as he was heading in the direction of the door that led out into the gardens. It was mid afternoon now. He was going to check on his lady before making an unexpected visit to the brothel to confront the cursed consort who poisoned him.

"Greetings, Brother in law. Have you seen Rhiannon? She's not in your private chambers. I haven't seen her anywhere. I've looked for her twice today. Once just before midday, and again, just now. She's nowhere to be found." Meridwyn explained with a shrug.

"She did say she would be taking her book out into the gardens today. I was just headed there to see her." the Sheriff said.

"That's funny. I looked in the usual spots she often sits out there, but didn't see her. Perhaps you'll have better luck?" Meridwyn said.

"Yes, perhaps. I'll tell her you're looking for her when I see her, Lady Meridwyn." he said.

"Indeed. It wasn't important, but, that would be grand." she said in parting.

The Sheriff opened the door then headed out into the gardens at the back of the castle. He walked for some time, checking all of the usual places, like Meridwyn, where he expected to find Rhiannon. He found nothing. He grew increasingly concerned. He was planning to head to the brothel, but, he was determined to find her first. Did the guards let her past the portcullis?

He grew increasingly frustrated as he walked the entire length of the labyrinth of gardens checking every possible nook and cranny within. He came up empty. He sighed and headed back into the castle.

He had no idea where she could be. She promised him she would not venture beyond the property, so, for now he had to trust her and take her at her word. Perhaps she was in the library looking for another book? He would have to get the next order of business out of the way, then come back to check in on her.

Three quarters of an hour later, he was walking the cobblestone path leading to the door of the brothel, after he'd secured his horse.

Madam Birghiva greeted him at the door, looking her usual self, with bright painted lips, rosy cheeks, and her lashes darkened over her amber eyes. She wore a bright green and pink gown,and her flaming red hair was fashioned high upon her head.

"Good day, Milord. I see you didn't waste any time. She is not here, but, you're welcome to come in and see for yourself." Madam Birghiva said, as she opened the door wider for him.

The Sheriff entered and stood a moment by the door to speak with the Madam. He heard the voices and laughter of some of the consorts in a nearby sitting room.

"Dear Zeus! I don't know how you cope with all of that clatter in this place." the Sheriff muttered.

"One gets accustomed to it over time, Milord." she said with a nod.

"You say she's not here. Yet again. Where did she go off to this time?" the Sheriff asked pointedly.

"I'm guessing she went shopping. She's been gone about an hour. I'm expecting her back shortly." Madam Birghiva said.

Just then there were footsteps fast approaching coming from the direction of the sitting room, followed by a heavy dose of lavender water, to which the strong scent preceded the woman entering the room. The Sheriff turned around, intending to question whomever she would be. He sighed.

"It's you! I knew you'd be back for me." Floria, the blond haired consort said to him; oddly, fully dressed in a navy tartan gown. "You finally decided to have me service you? How delightful, indeed." she purred as she inched in closer to him.

"Floria!" Madam Birghiva admonished.

"I am not here to be serviced, Missy. I am here on business — " he was interrupted.

"Sure! That's what they all say. Why don't you follow me up to my chamber and I'll show you some things that will take your mind off of business matters?" Floria said with a wink.

"Show me Mistress Celestria. She is the business I'm here about." the Sheriff said firmly.

"That's what they all say, too. What does she have that I don't?" Floria asked pointedly.

"Years on her for one thing. A criminal past for the other. I am not here to be serviced by you, her, or any other." he said sternly as he folded his arms.

"Sure." the young consort muttered absently.

"Have you seen the mistress in question at any point today?" the Sheriff asked pointedly.

"I last saw her during the night, when her loud entrance awakened me. Haven't seen her since. I've better things to do. I'm not her keeper." Floria sighed.

"I'm sure." Nottingham sighed. "You'd do well to maintain this arrangement, Missy. Best to keep her at a distance."

"Why — so you can have her all to yourself?" the consort asked, brazenly.

"That's not why I'm here. I will repeat it since you failed to listen the first time: I'm not interested in what any of you are offering." the Sheriff said firmly as he folded his arms.

"You know, for an attractive old guy, you're quite a bore." Floria remarked with an eye roll.

"I am your Sheriff, Missy! You would do well to remember that." the Sheriff admonished

"Aye. You did mention something about that. Odd how you keep showing up here, though. Don't you have a town to run or something of the sort?" Floria asked brazenly.

"I am in charge of the entire county, in fact; and I could arrest you right now. I'd mind your tongue if I were you, Missy. I have an instrument in the dungeon I like to call "tongue snippers", if you'd like to find out how they work?" the Sheriff hinted with a knowing glance.

"Ooh! I'm shaking." Floria mocked as she rolled her eyes again.

"That's enough, Floria!" Madam Birghiva said scornfully. "Mind your manners."

Floria nodded to the Madam with a sigh, then looked to the Sheriff.

"You know where to find me should you feel the urge to live a little for one night." Floria said. Then she turned and advanced up the stairs.

Nottingham sighed.

"I shall have a word with her about her outburst, Milord." Madam Birghiva assured him.

"Indeed." the Sheriff said.

"If she were older I'd toss her out the door for that." the Madam added.

"Agreed. That's the reason I didn't arrest her. I don't want her involved in this, so, I hope she heeds my advice. If she's like this in another five to ten years, however, it may be a different story." Nottingham admitted.

"You want to take a look around?" Madam Birghiva asked, changing the topic back to his reason for visiting.

"You've been forthright with me today, Madam. No, I'll leave you to it. I'm beginning to get a headache from the noise in here. I shall return. Don't say a word to her. And do tell that Floria girl to keep her mouth shut about my visit today." the Sheriff instructed.

"Very well, Milord. I shall tell her right now." the Madam nodded.

As the Sheriff was leaving the brothel to head back to the castle, the men had just started to venture back into Sherwood Forest. They stopped just off the path near to the Great North Way for a briefing before continuing on.

"Alright men. Gisborne and I shall lead two separate teams, same as always." Duke Farnsworth said to them. He looked to Mordrid and Ancel next. "Mordrid and Ancel, you two head back to Hood's former camp. As you were instructed, you'll need to secure your horses well away from the camp so the bloke won't be suspicious should he show up here."

"Very well, Duke." Mordrid said.

"It will be done, Duke Farnsworth." Ancel nodded in agreement.

"Are we really expecting to find him here now?" Alex said. "It will be getting dark in a couple of hours." he added.

"Indeed. So far it seems the only productive thing that was accomplished today was running into Samson, and getting a new bow ordered for Mordrid." Gerad said with a sigh.

"It's worth a try." Ancel said.

"Indeed. We must continue the search. We looked everywhere in the Village today. He's been in here before, so it's as good a place as any." Guy said.

"I'm rather surprised we didn't find him at that abandoned manor that Ancel took us to. That would have been a perfect place to hide out." Luke said.

"Exactly, Luke. I thought for sure Ancel had a good lead with that idea." Adam said, shaking his head.

"Agreed. I don't think we should put that place out of our minds, though. We may need to revisit that manor again in the days ahead." Mordrid suggested.

"Good point, Mordrid." the Captain agreed.

"Indeed. It would be a hell of a lot warmer than hiding out in the forest. Is this bloke's brain addled?" Gerad quipped.

"Quite possibly, from some of the things Ancel told us about him." Gisborne said.

"Indeed." Ancel sighed.

"Mordrid, Ancel, you two go on ahead. I'll take Luke and Gerad with me. The rest of you follow the Captain and heed his instructions. We have some ground to cover before heading back at dusk. We best get started." Guy said.

The men continued on the Great North Way into Sherwood Forest, then split up as Gisborne had directed, to pursue the search.

On his way back from the brothel, the Sheriff stopped at Lady Rhiannon's manor in the off chance she managed to get past the guards at the portcullis and decided to check on her home. His Officer, James greeted him as he opened the door and assured him the lady had not come by the manor today. He was pleased to hear that. It would be the first place she would go to if she ventured off the castle property. This confirmed for him that she was somewhere on the grounds when he was trying to find her. The Sheriff was back at the castle in the late afternoon.

He started by checking in the private chambers. His sentry who was guarding the door told him Rhiannon had left the chambers just before midday and had not yet returned. He was puzzled. Where could she possibly be?

The Sheriff went to the library first. There was no sign of her there. She was not in the Office, Council Quarters, nor the Dining Hall. He muttered curses under his breath and headed back to the gardens. That's where she said she would be. If she was there she would be coming back soon. As the day wore on the air became increasingly chill. The darkened cumulus clouds in the sky were also threatening the portents of rain. He couldn't imagine why she would still be outside reading her book, in the cold autumn air, with a darkening sky, but, he had to try once more.

The Sheriff walked the entire length of the labyrinth of gardens, hedges and shrubs, checking every usual place she often visited there, and every place in the gardens in between. Nothing. He let out an exasperated sigh and headed back into the castle. He would give it a little longer to see if she would return before searching the castle and the grounds once more.

About a half hour before dusk, he had just entered the den. He removed his surcoat and tossed it on a nearby chair. Then the door opened and Lady Rhiannon strolled into the den. Her face was covered in perspiration.

"Where in the hell have you been?" the Sheriff asked firmly, wasting no time in questioning her.

"I was out in the gardens, reading my book." Rhiannon lied.

"That's funny. I was out there twice looking for you, and so was Lady Gisborne. And reading, you say? You look like you just ran the entire perimeter of the property! Explain that one to me." the Sheriff said pointedly.

"I was well in the back. I didn't wish to be disturbed." Rhiannon said.

She noticed her book just then. It was on the sofa. She chastised herself for not taking it with her earlier today. Now what would she do? He was bound to see it!

"Interesting." the Sheriff muttered.

He went to the table and grabbed the decanter of brandy.

Since he was occupied, Rhiannon took advantage of the opportunity and went straight to the sofa, and sat directly on top of her book, arranging her skirts and cape to further cover it.

The Sheriff turned around to face her, holding the goblet of brandy in his hand. He had only poured a small measure since he would be meeting with his Captain and Lieutenant soon in the Council Quarters.

"You haven't removed your cape, Rhiannon. You planning to go back outside?" he asked.

"I'm feeling a bit chill. I'll remove it soon." Rhiannon muttered in response.

"I'd be chill, too, if I were dressed like you and stayed outside for several hours." the Sheriff sighed, shaking his head. "Why are you dripping like a racehorse, then? How does reading a book cause one to sweat profusely, my dear?" he asked facetiously as he walked closer toward her, burning his amber hazel eyes into hers.

"I was walking quickly the entire length of the gardens, then into the castle and up the stairs. I was enjoying my book, and oblivious to the time that had passed." Rhiannon said with a shrug. She looked downcast.

"Right." he muttered as he took a sip of the brandy.

Rhiannon sighed.

"Rhiannon. Look at me." the Sheriff commanded.

She looked up into his eyes. Why was he being so difficult?

"I checked everywhere. I went through the entire cursed labyrinth of the gardens — twice. You were nowhere to be found. You were not there, were you?" the Sheriff asked sternly.

He set the goblet down on the mantle, then stood three feet away, folding his arms, tapping his shiny, black leather boot impatiently on the marble floor — and stared down at her.

"You know nothing." Rhiannon sighed softly.

"Really now? On the contrary, dearest, for, I know plenty." Nottingham sneered as he continued to glare at her, enunciating his term of endearment for her, scornfully.

Rhiannon swallowed. She pulled her cape closer about her, for, she felt a sudden shiver just then.

The Sheriff was just getting started. She was lying. He knew it, and he had a little time to spare to show her how he knew.

"Let's look at the facts, shall we? Because this is what I do know: Two of us looked for you today. Lady Gisborne checked just before midday, and again in mid afternoon. I did a thorough search of the gardens right after her second search, and again in late afternoon. Meridwyn looked in the usual places. I checked every inch. The sentry outside our door here…" he pointed to the doors leading out into the corridor from the chambers, then continued. "… confirms Meridwyn's account of your absence from the chambers, just before midday. You stroll in here looking like you just ran a country mile to get away from a revenant; no hard evidence of your book; and your body and expressions tell me you're saying one thing and thinking another. You tell me, my dearest, soon to be bride: what in the devil are you up to?" the Sheriff asked pointedly, and evenly, his jaw firmly set as he continued to stare into her eyes.

Why did she feel like this is how he must sound when speaking to one of his staff when he admonished her just now?

"I was in the very back of the gardens, reading my book. I also took a walk, and I checked very briefly on my horse. I must have just missed you both, I suppose." Rhiannon said. She wished she could slow her rapid heartbeat somehow.

"Right." Nottingham sighed. "You picked a bad day to go back to your cursed games, my dear. I'm already testy today for a few reasons unrelated to you. Those, I can handle. This is another matter entirely." Nottingham managed to scorn, and obfuscate all at once.

Rhiannon sighed. For a devilishly attractive man, he could be a handful at times. The man was a former villain, and a consummate investigator. He could detect a lie a mile away. It made it a challenge when she told what she considered to be benign, white lies to him. It was a monumental task to her at times.

"You needn't be testy about me. My, you're making such a fuss, George!" Rhiannon exclaimed nervously. " I promised you I would not go outside the walls surrounding the property. I kept that promise. I was outdoors. Reading. Walking. I checked on my horse." she added, impertinently.

The Sheriff continued to stare into her eyes a moment longer, then he turned and took a few steps toward the mantle to take his goblet. He took a generous swig of the brandy before he uttered his parting words.

"Right. Whatever. You best get out of those garments, my dear. You're going to get chilled even more sitting in damp clothes. We'll talk further, later. I need to get back to meet with my men." Nottingham said as he set the goblet back on the mantle.

"Which men?" Rhiannon asked directly.

"Rhiannon." he shook his head. "Let it go. I'm sure you can figure out who. It's of no matter to you at this point, anyway. We will talk later about whatever game you're up to this time. Have no doubt about that." Nottingham said firmly.

Then he turned on his heel, strode toward the door, and walked through it, closing it behind him.

Rhiannon sat for a moment, speechless, and bewildered all the same at what just happened. Then she stood, took the book, and hid it under the bed in the private chamber, for now.

Next she removed the cape. She arranged for the servants to fill the tub with hot water. Rhiannon removed the moistened garments, then stepped into the tub, and soaked in a creamy, bubbly, warm water oasis.

She was glad to have made the decision to hide the weapons and stuffed man in amongst bushes, and buried under fallen leaves she'd collected.

She also thought of the brief meeting she had with Madam Oberon right before entering the private chambers…

Madam Oberon greeted her with a smile at the door.

"Mademoiselle Rhiannon. How nice to see you, mon cher." the Wardrobe Mistress smiled. Then, she sighed. "The gown isn't quite ready.

"Never mind that just now. When you are finished with the alterations, and Isabelle's gown, I need something… sort of utilitarian. To be worn outdoors.Remember the Sheriff's breeches you tailored to fit me? I shall wear it with the breeches." Rhiannon hinted.

"Hmm, Interesting. Like a cape, or a surcoat? Something like that?" Madam Oberon asked.

"Yes. It needs to have a hood, as well."

"C'est bon. Very well, Mademoiselle. Madam Oberon nodded.

She beckoned for Rhiannon to enter inside her chambers, and they spent a few minutes quickly hashing out ideas for outer garb for Lady Rhiannon.

Rhiannon smiled contentedly as she leaned against the tub and closed her eyes, letting the warm water heat her body. She had plans for the clothing she had discussed with her Wardrobe Mistress. She thought of her betrothed and sighed. He would not approve of what those plans were. He also wouldn't approve of how she spent most of the day.

Rhiannon hated to lie to him, but, she knew he would not be amused if he knew what she was really doing instead of reading. He would say she was overdoing it physically, and ignoring the dangers of handling a bow.

There was a need to prove to herself she could accomplish this, and she didn't want him to stop her.

Later in the Council Quarters, the Sheriff greeted his Captain and his Lieutenant for their evening report of the day's search endeavour.

"I regret to say we came up empty again today, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"It's like he knows we're looking for him!" Guy huffed.

"Good point, Gis. I think you're on to something there. Maybe that is the problem." the Sheriff said as he went over to the table and poured some water into a goblet.

"My Lord?" Duke Farnsworth asked, bewildered.

The Sheriff turned back around to face them. He took a sip of water from the goblet, placed it on the table, then approached them slowly.

"We need to draw him out somehow. Perhaps he's gotten wind of you and the men riding about town looking for an outlaw. Tomorrow, we take a break from this. He's taking us on a wild goose chase, it would seem." the Sheriff said.

"Cousin? You want us to stay put tomorrow? Seriously?" Guy asked.

"Indeed. The lot of you stay here. Except, I'm still deciding if I should send Mordrid and Ancel out together. Dressed as Villagers, of course, instead of my knights."

"You think that's a good plan, my Lord?" the Duke asked.

"Indeed. The more I think on it, the more sense it makes to me. Strategy is everything. We need to lure him out of hiding." Nottingham said.

"Maybe we should consider taking your lady out into the Village? It's she he is after, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"You think I should use my lady as bait. Interesting. Surely, you jest, Duke?" Nottingham shook his head.

"It was just a thought, my Lord. She would be protected at all times, of course." the Duke said.

"If anyone takes her beyond the walls surrounding the property, it will be me — if I permit it." the Sheriff said firmly, folding his arms.

"It could work, Cousin; but, I understand the hesitation." Guy said.

"Indeed." he nodded to Guy, then looked to his Captain. "There's more than one reason I feel it's safer to keep her here. That's all I can say about it, Duke." Nottingham said.

"Understood, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

"Tell the men — all of them including Mordrid and Ancel, we shall meet in the Council Quarters on the morrow. Let's make it mid morning. I want you all rested so we can formulate a plan and discuss tactics." Nottingham instructed them.

"Very well, my Lord. It shall be done." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Yes, Cousin. We will." Guy nodded.

"Before we go, there's an incident to report to you that happened early today. Before we ventured out on our search, in fact." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Yes, Cousin. Puzzling, indeed." Guy said.

"A problem before you even left?" the Sheriff sighed. "What sort of incident, exactly?"

"Mordrid's weapons went missing from the empty stall where he left them overnight, in the stables, Milord." the Duke said.

"Indeed. A bow and a quiver of arrows. Gervase said he saw them, but, couldn't account for what happened to them." Guy said with a shrug.

"That's very strange. So, someone stole Mordrid's weapons, then? Let's be frank." Nottingham said, as his left eyebrow shot north.

"So it would appear, my Lord." the Captain sighed.

"Splendid!" Nottingham sneered and shook his head. "Just what we need. Another problem!"

"Everyone is on the lookout, Cousin." Gisborne said.

"Good. And how did Mordrid take it?" he asked.

"Not very well, as you can well imagine. I had an extra sword I lent him. We ran into Samson today after we completed the search of the Village. A new bow is being crafted for Mordrid as we speak, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Good. He is more comfortable with a bow versus a blade. It seems an odd variety of thievery to me. Of all of the things in the castle or out on the grounds, the thief chooses a bow and a quiver of arrows to take. It's appearing as though there is a thief among us." Nottingham said.

"Possibly. Everyone is on guard, my Lord." the Duke assured him.

Just as their men were about to meet in the Council Quarters, Rhiannon was walking the corridor of the second level and saw Lady Meridwyn as she was heading for the stairs.

"Dearest! There you are! I was looking for you today." Meridwyn smiled. She narrowed her blue eyes and frowned. "Why do you look downcast?"

"It's nothing, Meridwyn. Sorry I worried you. I might have been taking a stroll when you were looking for me. I enjoy the fresh air." Rhiannon said.

"Fresh? More like frigid. Where were you heading just now?" Meridwyn asked.

"Nowhere in particular. I just needed out of those rooms." Rhiannon said.

"But, you couldn't have been in the private chambers very long?" Meridwyn pointed out.

"No, I guess not." Rhiannon muttered.

Lady Meridwyn was no fool. She had already put the pieces together. No doubt, the Sheriff looked for Rhiannon, also couldn't find her, and he must've had words with her about it. Rhiannon was being awfully evasive just now.

"Have you dined?" Meridwyn asked.

"No. I haven't thought much about that, either." Rhiannon said.

"We could always peruse the library, I suppose." Meridwyn suggested.

"Alright. Unless you want to wait for Guy. I'm sure the meeting won't be long. It's generally brief." Rhiannon said.

"Yes, except for the one a couple of days ago. My husband can wait a little, I'm sure." Meridwyn commented as they started down the stairs.

They soon entered into the library. It was down the hall from the Council Quarters, and past the Office, and Dining Hall. It was fairly grand, similar in size to the Dining Hall. Books lined the shelves from floor to ceiling along the walls, and more tall bookshelves were lined up taking up half of the room. The other half featured tables and chairs. Torches ensconced the walls flanking either side of the doors, and there were candles burning in iron candelabrum on the tables.

"How are you coming along with your book, Rhiannon? You must be close to finishing it." Meridwyn asked.

"Yes, I am getting close, Meridwyn. It's quite good. I'm enjoying it." Rhiannon smiled. "I'll give it to you to read when I'm finished."

"I'd like that. I'm going to browse over there where the fiction is." Meridwyn said as she pointed to an area in the back.

"Sounds fine. I'm just going to take a look around and see what interests me." Rhiannon nodded.

Fifteen minutes later as she was perusing some books in the history section, she pulled a book out regarding the history of Nottingham, and discovered a small box standing up to appear like a book, which was in place between the book about Nottingham and another one about the Norwich Massacre that took place in February of 1190. She pulled the box out, dusted it off and opened it. There was a small notebook in there labelled "Daily Notes". She opened it. It appeared to be a journal of some sort. On the inside cover of the book there was handwriting that read: "Lady Aelesia Nottingham. September 1156, Anno Domini."

It was a journal, written by the Sheriff's mother. Rhiannon was stunned. She was holding in her hands some real history regarding the woman who should have been Rhiannon's mother in law in just eighteen days hence, written before George was even born. Did he know this existed? How did the journal end up in here, where anyone could find it? Shouldn't it be in his vault? The more she thought of it, she realized this had to be an oversight. The box must have been placed in here accidentally… but, then why was it standing on its end to look like the other books? She took it and put the notebook inside of the book about Nottingham. The box was placed back on the shelf as she had found it. She wasn't ready to share this find with anyone at the moment.

"Well, it looks like you're sorted for awhile, Rhiannon! That's quite a large book." Meridwyn said as she pointed to the book Rhiannon was holding.

"Yes, this should keep me occupied for awhile, I'm sure — once I finish the one I'm reading." Rhiannon smiled.

Meridwyn glanced at the cover and frowned.

"Really? A book about Nottingham's history? When there's actually sonnets, poems, and fiction books? What an interesting choice, my dear." Meridwyn remarked.

"I'm sure I'll just gloss over most of it, but, since I'm marrying the Sheriff of Nottingham, I suppose I should brush up on my knowledge." Rhiannon said. "What about you, Meridwyn? You didn't find anything to read?"

"I was at the table there reading poems and sonnets while you had your nose in the history section, dearest. I'm still reading the book about Lancelot you gave me." Meridwyn smiled.

"I see. I have all I need now. Perhaps we should get back?" Rhiannon said.

"Yes. I'm sure our men will have finished their meeting by now." Meridwyn agreed.

"When you were looking for me earlier, was it about anything important?" Rhiannon asked.

"No, not at all. Just wondered if you wanted company. I looked for the second time mostly out of curiosity. I was worried you found a way to slip past the guards." Meridwyn said.

"No. I was here on the property the whole time. I was reading, taking a walk, checking on my horse, and more reading, and strolling through the gardens." Rhiannon said.

"That's good to hear, Rhiannon. Don't do anything foolish without me." Meridwyn giggled.

"Indeed, friend!" Rhiannon laughed.

Later, Lady Rhiannon was reclined on the sofa in the den. She'd put the new book about Nottingham under the bed, grabbed the current book she hid there earlier, and had the journal inside of the book she was reading. Except she wasn't reading her book. It was opened to appear she was reading it, but, in fact, she'd just opened the journal, and it was held inside the large opened book.

She ran her hand over the page, admiring the lady's artful writing, imagining her sitting in a quiet room, or perhaps outside somewhere, penning her thoughts. What did George's mother have to say? She wondered. She got comfortable under a blanket, her legs stretched out on the sofa, and her back rested against pillows on one end of it. She had a cup of steaming batwing tea on the table beside the sofa. She began to read.

Monday, September 10th, 1156;

I was given this book by my Aunt Mortianna to… "

"Wait… what? Mortianna is George's great aunt? Does he know this?" Rhiannon whispered to herself. Which other Mortianna could there possibly be? It's not that common of a given name. Are the two of them keeping this a secret? Or, does he even know this? Rhiannon wondered.

She returned to that first sentence to continue reading.

"… write whatever I wish. I have many thoughts, things I cannot speak of. Things I am trepidatious to let flow on paper past this quill in my hand! It's not appropriate to burden others with the grief I carry alone. It is mine. I will not burden Giles with this, or any other. Not even my aunt. I'm unaware if she has ever endured what we have.I wouldn't deign to make such an inquiry. It's not spoken of. Not even in the closest of families.

I can't help but feel lost, and rather useless as a lady. By now, we should have had a child; the one we were given was lost to us, far too soon in my confinement.I long for a child. Giles expresses I must exercise patience and calmness.

I'm lonely without Giles. He's been away for some time. Just after the infant was borne of my body, too early to be nurtured, he needed to make away to catch an outlaw.I pray we shall be granted another child soon, but, that cannot be until Giles returns.

Ive a grateful heart that Evie, my sister, is close by. She has a new suitor. A fine gentleman whom this far brings her joy."

Rhiannon narrowed her eyes, set the book with the journal inside of it facing down on her lap, then reached for her cup on the table. She took a sip of the tea and wondered, is this Guy's mother that Lady Aelesia was referring to? She could swear Meridwyn mentioned that if she had a baby girl come the spring, the child would be named Eve, after Guy's mother. And, did George know his parents lost a child before he was conceived?

She sighed. He wouldn't care to know. It's not like he could change it. If it were she hearing this news, it wouldn't mean much to her, either. She only knew the family she was given, not the family lost to her before she formed a memory. She understood her betrothed's lack of emotion when speaking of his parents, as she felt the same whenever her mother was mentioned.

She couldn't help to feel oddly fascinated to read Lady Aelesia's journal, however. It was like being given a glimpse of the past. Like a time machine, of sorts.

She set the cup down, and picked the book and the journal back up. She scanned through the pages, because most of it was just day to day musings. Then, it started to get interesting around the time of Yule that year from the looks of it:

"Thursday, December 20th, 1156;

I've met him. Evie's suitor. A magnetic, handsome, interesting fellow, he is. He has dark, curly hair like midnight clouds on a full moon. Amber eyes that resemble flames. He is tall, much more height on him than my sister… "

"It's like she's seeing into the future and describing the son she hasn't met yet — as a man! What?" Rhiannon murmured quietly to herself. She returned her gaze to the page.

"I can't help but to notice him. Confusion muddles my thoughts. It's not appropriate for me to look at him, and have thoughts dancing in my mind about him. He is Evie's suitor. Their courtship is quite serious, and I do love Giles. How I wish Giles wasn't kept so occupied… "

Just then, the door opened and the Sheriff strode into the den. He noticed Rhiannon's gaping jaw as she stared intently into the book she was reading.

"Must be quite the chapter you're reading, my lady. You look quite enthralled with it." Nottingham commented as he walked closer to her.

She closed the book with the journal tucked safely inside of it, placing it on her lap.

"Just passing the time until you returned, George." Rhiannon said.

"Interesting how your book just magically appeared." the Sheriff commented as he walked to the table where the decanter of brandy was located.

"I had dropped it on my way back earlier, in my haste. I went and retrieved it right after you left." Rhiannon lied.

"I see." he remarked absently as he poured a measure of brandy into a goblet.

"How did the meeting go?" she asked.

"It was fine, Rhiannon. Do you want a small libation of brandy? You might need it." Nottingham hinted.

"I would like that, yes, Milord." Rhiannon replied. For, after reading the December 20th entry, a sip of brandy, she thought, would be welcome.

The Sheriff poured her a measure, then took the two goblets as he strode toward her. He handed her one, then sat on a chair across from her.

"Were you being straight with me earlier, Rhiannon? You didn't leave the property?" Nottingham said.

"I was, George. And, no. I promise you. I did not leave the castle grounds. I stayed inside the walls." Rhiannon said as she sat up more then turned to face him.

"You know I hate to impose such restrictions. It's because I want you close by. Thomas is living close to the castle now, Rhiannon. He can get to you quickly should you need him. If you venture out in the Village, it immediately increases the timing of care." the Sheriff explained.

"Yes, my love. I do understand. I'm keenly aware of that point, also. I'm also of the mind that life is meant for living, creating memories. I found a way to accomplish both today, George. By walking, venturing farther out into the gardens, and enjoying more of the property. I am fine. Everything is grand, and I respect your wishes." Rhiannon nodded.

"I appreciate that, my dearest heart." the Sheriff smiled. He took a sip of brandy from his goblet.

"Good. Does this mean you're not cross anymore?" Rhiannon asked.

"I was suspicious, my lady." Nottingham said.

Truthfully, the Sheriff was still suspicious. He did believe she didn't leave the castle grounds, he just doubted the reading and walking part of her tale. He didn't know anyone to perspire like she had from walking. She was strong. Able to climb the stairs faster than most without getting winded or breaking a sweat. She was doing some form of physical activity in the afternoon. He suspected he'd find out what soon enough.

"And what about now?" Rhiannon asked.

"You're fine, my lady. I'm not looking to quarrel." the Sheriff said with a nod.

"Well, that's a relief." Rhiannon sighed then took a generous sip of her brandy. "So… " she began as she set the goblet on the table in front of her. "Have you thought of names?"

"Excuse me?" he asked.

"Names for the child." she clarified.

"Well, no. Wouldn't that be getting ahead of ourselves, my lady? We're a long way off needing to worry about it." the Sheriff pointed out.

"Guy and Meridwyn have a name chosen if they have a girl. I wonder what they'd name a boy?" she mused.

Rhiannon was deliberately leading him. She wanted to know if Guy's father was the same as the man described by Lady Aelesia in the December 20th entry of the lady's journal. Just out of curiosity, in case he was named in a later entry.

"I don't know. Maybe they'll name him George?" the Sheriff chuckled. "Wouldn't that be funny?"

"What was your uncle's name, George?" Rhiannon asked abruptly.

"His name was Osric, my dear. Why?" Nottingham asked, as his eyebrow shot north, questioningly.

"Maybe the Gisbornes will name a boy after him?" Rhiannon mused.

"Doubtful." the Sheriff said dryly.

"Really?" she asked.

"That bloke was a male version of a… pardon me for saying so — whore. He was no good for Aunt Evie, and especially useless to my cousin, my dear. If my cousin and his wife wish to name a son after a family member they'd be better off to make him the namesake of Lady Meridwyn's late father." the Sheriff said as he took a sip of brandy from his goblet.

"Did you meet him, George?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes. I met him. He was generally absent, however. He was too busy dipping his little bailey wick into every woman in town who would open her legs to him, if you'll forgive me for being blunt about it." Nottingham sneered.

"I see. Does Guy look like him, or his mother?" Rhiannon asked.

"Thankfully, he looks more like his mother. He has his father's height, maybe nose and mouth shape, but, the rest is all Auntie Evie. Why?" he asked, suspiciously.

"I don't know, I guess I just find myself wondering about our family history a little, my love, since we're waiting on this child of ours." Rhiannon said.

"Interesting, when you phrase it that way." the Sheriff said.

"What exactly did he look like, that you can remember?" Rhiannon asked.

"Tall, like Guy. Dark hair, and eyes like a black cat. Why would you want to know about that bloke of all the people in the family tree, my dear?" he asked.

Rhiannon swallowed. That sounded just like the man described by George's mother in the journal entry she just read.

"Just thinking ahead what our future niece or nephew might look like, George." Rhiannon smiled as she sipped of her brandy.

"Do not wish for their child to be like that sodding bastard, my dear. We mustn't curse the poor babe before he or she is even born." Nottingham said with a sigh.

"Understood. What can you tell me of your parents, and your Aunt Evie?" Rhiannon pressed.

"Aren't you curious this night, Rhiannon? Why now?" he asked.

"Because, my sweet, we shall be married in just over a fortnight, and we are expecting a child. Plus, my soon to be in-laws are also expecting a child. I'm thinking of the family history we can share with these children." Rhiannon explained.

"Alright. Fair enough. I'm told my parents were fine, noble people. Both of them had dark hair like mine. My father was the Sheriff of Nottingham in his time. Both died tragically and unexpectedly." a beat. "I have more to say about Aunt Evie. She was a treasure of a woman, and a good mother to Guy. She had golden brown hair, a fair countenance, a kind smile. She was wise about most things. She was a fool when it came to Osric, though. It was rumoured he fathered several children — but, there was only one with my aunt." Nottingham said with a knowing glance.

"How awful for your aunt, and for Sir Guy, my sweet." Rhiannon said.

"Yes. It was, I'm sure. All that is past now, my lady. Those years were challenging ones. The future is bright, however." the Sheriff smiled.

"Indeed, it is." Rhiannon nodded.

She raised her glass to her lips and noticed her shoulder and arm felt tender and stiff. She put the goblet down and rubbed her right arm with her left hand.

The Sheriff took notice.

"Are you quite yourself, my dear?" he asked.

"Yes, I'm fine. Just an ache in my arm. All is well." Rhiannon said.

"How peculiar. Why do you suppose your arm is aching?" he asked, curiously.

"I'm not sure." Rhiannon lied. She knew exactly why, and her left arm was feeling a little sore now, as well. Curses!

"Maybe it's that large book you've been carrying around." the Sheriff commented.

Any thought of intimacy he had in mind to share with her quickly left him. She was lying about how she spent her afternoon. There should be no reason for her to be rubbing her shoulders and arms just now. She was acting like some of his men might after spending hours in a training session! What in the hell are you hiding from me, Rhiannon?

"I'm not sure. Perhaps that is it." Rhiannon said.

"Perhaps a soak in a hot bath might help, my dear." he suggested.

"I already did that. Right after you left for your meeting." Rhiannon said.

Nottingham arose from his chair and walked around to the back of the sofa and stood behind her.

"Relax your arms, my lady." he said.

He placed his hands on her shoulders and began to massage them with a kneading motion. He could feel her muscles bound in tight cords beneath his fingers.

"Your muscles are like rocks, my dear. No wonder your arms are aching." the Sheriff said.

"Are they?" she asked.

"The book isn't that heavy, Rhiannon." the Sheriff leaned down and said softly in her ear, as he began to massage her upper arms next.

"Maybe I got chilled with the autumn air? I don't know why my shoulders and arms feel oddly, George; but, I am grateful for your healing touch." Rhiannon sighed as she closed her eyes. Her head started to fall forward as she felt tension in her muscles begin to release.

"Perhaps, my dear." Nottingham said softly. "And, perhaps you should read in here on the morrow, Rhiannon — instead of carrying that gargantuan book so far to read it."

"I will see how I fare by afternoon." Rhiannon said.

"I'm strenuously suggesting you rest your body tomorrow, my dear." Nottingham said softly, yet firmly.

She turned her body around to face him, and narrowed her green eyes upon him as she began to defy him.

"You're suggesting I obey your command, aren't you?" Rhiannon challenged.

"I'm strongly suggesting you listen to your body when it's talking to you, my dear. You can do whatever you wish, within reason. I'm telling you that if you start hauling that very large book all over hell's half acre like you must have done today, those muscles of yours are going to hurt you even more in twenty four hours hence than they do right now." the Sheriff said as his eyebrow shot north. He folded his arms as he waited for her reply to that.

Rhiannon sighed. He was probably correct about that point, but, she was really hoping to hit her target at twenty five yards by the end of tomorrow's practice session.

"Alright. I'll grant you that, since you put it that way. If I'm feeling better in the afternoon I'd like to go outside to read, though. I haven't much time to enjoy it before the cold days of winter are upon us." Rhiannon said.

"Just don't push yourself, my lady. You have nothing to prove to anyone, you understand?" he said.

"Yes." Rhiannon nodded. "Point taken, and I do understand."

The Sheriff gestured for her to turn back around, and she did so. He rubbed his hands together briskly, then recommenced the shoulder massage on his lady.

"That is helping immensely, my sweet. Thank you, greatly." Rhiannon sighed. She closed her eyes and let herself relax.

"Yes, my lady." the Sheriff said simply.

Rhiannon could tell he still didn't understand her. Maybe it was best. I only have a short time before the daylight dwindles, and the weather changes to frost. Most of my confinement is going to be spent inside, and this could very well be my last moments of freedom. She sighed. She could never tell him this. She couldn't admit this point to anyone. Motherhood was a common expectation, and most maidens aspired to it. Rhiannon was never prepared for it, thus would've been content to wait. She did love the child she carried, but, she knew their lives would be changed.

The Sheriff was discomposed at Rhiannon's secretive behaviour. He wasn't sure what she was up to, but, he knew she was hiding something from him. He realized he was hiding something, too, although he did try to tell her at one point. Indeed, he told her the kidnapped child was their child, and she just laughed. He was still trying to find the right moment to tell her again, but, his reasoning was not malicious.

He wished that she could feel at ease enough with him to be truthful about what she was really doing in the afternoon. There was no one to ask, because he suspected that whatever she was hiding, she was hiding from everyone. Since Lady Meridwyn was just as confounded as he was earlier, that proved to him that whatever Rhiannon had been doing was her own little secret. His only choice was to observe her the next few days, see if there was any indication this would be repeated, and then proceed from there. He might need to get one of his Knights to shadow her, but, he would wait to decide if that should be his next course of action.

"Alright, my dear. That should do it." the Sheriff said as he removed his hands from Rhiannon's shoulders.

"Yes, George. They do feel better. Thank you." Rhiannon said.

"Good. Have you eaten, Rhiannon? I could have a tray sent up for us if you'd like." he suggested, as he moved from behind the sofa to face her.

"No, not since before midday. That would be grand, unless you'd prefer to dine in the Dining Hall?" she said.

"No, that's fine. We shall dine right here, my dear. It's been a long day for us both, it would seem." the Sheriff said.

"I suppose so… " Rhiannon said.

She looked downcast and the Sheriff regarded her curiously. He didn't know what to make of her strange behaviour. He sighed.

"I shall take care of that, my lady. You rest, or read, or whatever you wish in order to relax. I will return." the Sheriff said.

She looked up and smiled at him. The Sheriff nodded and left the chamber.

At this time, some of the Sheriff's men were gathered in the Dining Hall, having just dined on Jean Louis' dishes, and were finishing by conversing over mugs of ale, and nibbling on a variety of fruits, figs, and dates.

The room was lit by various torches ensconced upon each of the walls, and candles burning in iron candelabrum upon the large mahogany table. They would normally increase the temperature in the room considerably, but, a damp, chill autumn breeze was flowing through the windows. The ale was flowing, the men were at ease, and for a moment they could forget about their occupation. Except, these men were committed to their work, as much as to each other and their Sheriff, so their conversations often circled back around to their duties.

Luke brought Ancel over to the large table where Officers Mordrid, Adam, Gerad, Alex, Drake, and Alfred were seated.

"There you are, friend! I haven't seen you in well over a fortnight. Indeed, it's three weeks tomorrow. Grab a couple of chairs and join us!" Drake said excitedly to Luke.

Ancel nodded to the men, then he turned and went to grab the chairs; as Luke stood waiting while he chatted with the men.

"Aye. It's been awhile, Drake. Wish you were joining us on the search mission." Luke said.

"True, but our assignments make sense. You, Adam, and myself have all seen the man the Sheriff is after. It's reasonable that you and Adam would be sent on the search mission, and I'm at the portcullis with Alfred, also watching out for the bloke." a beat. "I'm bewildered about one thing, though. Why is the short bloke's henchman carrying on like he's one of us now? Shouldn't he be in the dungeon?" Drake asked Luke with his eyebrow quirked curiously, as he took a swig of his ale.

"Good question, Drake. I've been wondering the same thing." Alfred agreed.

"Oh, you two are going to like this story. It's brilliant." Mordrid hinted with a knowing grin.

"I haven't heard the full story, myself." Adam said, then he looked to Luke. "I've been on the Captain's team, while you've been helping Sir Gisborne. Tell us, Luke!" Adam goaded him.

"Yes, do tell them, Luke! It's a real beauty!" Gerad chuckled.

"I'll say." Alex said less enthusiastically, as he leaned back in his chair, and took a swig of ale.

"He's been investigating that ruddy, ginger bloke on his own for a number of months. He was planning to meet with the Sheriff about it. We captured him, he insisted on meeting our employer, and he spent the entire evening and the next morning explaining everything he knew to the Sheriff." Luke summarized for them.

"Interesting." Alex remarked with a sigh.

"Ha! And you all believed it? Bollocks!" Alfred chortled.

"Yes. Not just myself, but, also the Captain, the Lieutenant, and our Sheriff, mate." Luke said with a knowing glance of his green blue eyes.

"Madness!" Alfred exclaimed in disbelief.

"Seriously, mate? What in the devil?" Drake exclaimed.

"Dead serious, mate, and I'm not being funny about it." Luke nodded.

Drake looked to Mordrid. "And what say you, Mordrid? Surely you haven't fallen for this trap, too?" he urged.

"Not a trap nor a tall tale, Drake. There's a lot more to it. Maybe we can ask Ancel to fill you in a bit? I believe him, as well. I've been paired up with him the last couple of days. He is very good. He's as good an investigator as our Captain, if the truth be told." Mordrid smirked as he began to nibble on some grapes.

"You're jesting! Surely?" Drake exclaimed.

"No, mate. He is not. Ancel really is suited for this work. It's astonishing, really… " Luke said.

At this point, Ancel appeared walking up behind Luke, carrying the two chairs.

"Here we are, Luke. I brought these for us from across the room. But, I could just leave you to it. It's looking like you men would like to catch up on things." Ancel said as he set the two chairs down.

"No, Ancel. Join us. You are one of us now." Mordrid smiled.

"Indeed, Ancel. Take a seat. It's not often we are all at ease and able to converse freely outside of working together, and sharing a mug of ale." Luke said.

"Yes. I would have suggested we go to the tavern, but, Drake and Alfred must relieve Castor and Emory at the portcullis at dawn, and the rest of us need to be thinking clearly for the meeting in the morning." Mordrid reminded them.

"Indeed, Mordrid. Very good point." Drake agreed. He looked back to Ancel. "Take a seat, our new comrade. Join us. I'm Drake, by the way. This is Alfred to my left. I trust you've met the rest?"

"Indeed. Nice to formally make your acquaintance, Drake, and Alfred." Ancel nodded.

"How do you do?" Alfred said.

Luke and Ancel seated themselves beside each other at the table.

Mordrid raised a hand to catch the attention of one of the servants passing by.

"Yes?" the waif like lady servant said.

"Bring us a couple more mugs for our comrades, another pitcher of ale, and these men will require food, as well." Mordrid said, as he gestured toward Luke and Ancel.

"Very well." the servant nodded, then left to carry out the task.

"Ancel, a couple of us here haven't heard the story of how you charmed our employer and his top men into a position with the Black Knights. We're interested to hear about it, if you're keen to share it." Drake opened the conversation.

Ancel shifted a little in his seat. He looked to both Mordrid and Luke, who both encouraged him with a nod and a smile that all would be well.

Ancel started by clearing his throat. "First of all, I wouldn't characterize it as charming the Sheriff, nor the Captain, or Lieutenant. I just laid out the facts. Everything, right from the beginning. You know by now that one cannot just charm the Sheriff of Nottingham. I'd wager that even his bride to be had to work at it to gain his trust." Ancel said.

"Hmm. You do have a point there, Ancel. I'll grant you that." Alfred nodded.

"Do you feel free to share with us how this all went down?" Adam asked.

"Alright. I won't bore you with too many details, but, I can highlight the finer points for you." Ancel began.

And so, he summarized for them how he ended up in Nottingham from his hometown of Portsmouth; his plan to meet with the Sheriff once he arrived about possibly joining the Black Knights; how the plan went sour when Hamon found the ash remains of his sister's property; his chance meeting with Rebeccah; and why he stayed close to Hamon when Hamon started machinating a plot to harm the Sheriff's lady.

"The man was getting out of control. He is hell bent on harming Lady Wordsworth, and even her lady servant. I was able to stop him on Tuesday. He was insisting I lead him to the lady's manor. I forged a note to make it look like she penned it, led him to an abandoned home several miles in the opposite direction of her manor, pretending to be visiting her lady servant when, really, I was alone. Then I showed him the note which explained why she wasn't coming to see to her manor." Ancel said. "And he fell for it, eventually. I somehow managed to thwart him for at least a sennight, and I knew I must inform the Sheriff, regardless of how he'd act toward me."

Drake, Adam, Alfred, Gerad, and Alex all stared at him with varying degrees of astonishment registered on each of their faces.

"Told you this was brilliant!" Mordrid chuckled.

"How the hell did you manage to present all of this to the Sheriff? He actually listened to you!" Gerad exclaimed.

"That's the part that has me stumped. I'm shocked he didn't want to throw you in the dungeon." Drake added.

"I don't know. I was forthright with him right from the start. I explained a lot of things without prompting. I guess I just spoke to him as if I were already working for him, rather than as a prisoner, even though I was one when I met him." Ancel shrugged.

"The Sheriff is a clever man, Ancel. He recognizes talent and loyalty when he sees it. That's how both you and Luke were invited to join the Black Knights." Mordrid said.

"Indeed." Drake said. "I still recall meeting Luke for the first time. He was a messenger sent on behest of the Captain. He met with the Sheriff briefly, then next thing you know he's a new recruit!"

"Aye. And look how well that turned out for us?" Adam pointed out.

"Indeed!" Mordrid agreed.

"I must be doing something wrong. You two start out as a messenger and a prisoner to him. Now you're both investigators in the militia. I can't even get the man to know my name, after two years." Alfred sighed as he took a sip of ale.

"You let him intimidate you, Alfred. Don't show fear and just do your best. That's all you can do, really." Mordrid advised.

"I'll keep that in mind." Alfred said. "I can't help but think about Hector, though." Alfred sighed, shaking his head.

"Hector made a grave mistake and owned up to it. He didn't show fear, even in the end. Don't be dwelling on that, Alfred." Mordrid said.

"Dare I ask who Hector is?" Ancel asked.

"Not is. Was." Alex sighed as he took a swig of ale from his mug.

"He was one of us. He was executed a couple of months ago." Drake explained.

"I see." Ancel said. "How often does that happen?"

"Last time was three years ago." Mordrid said.

"It does no good to lend any thought to it, Ancel. Nothing we can do to change things for them, but, we can heed the lesson and let that direct our actions each day in our duties." Luke said, as he looked to his left at his new comrade.

Just then the servant appeared carrying a tray. She took the pitcher of ale from the tray and set it on the table in front of Luke and Ancel. Next she placed the mugs in front of them.

"The food will be coming in a few moments." she announced.

"Thank you, Miss." Luke nodded.

The servant left them and Luke began to pour the ale for them.

"Drink up, lads. You've some catching up to do." Alex grinned.

"We're not getting drunk, Alex. We need clear heads for our morning meeting with the Sheriff and his top men." Mordrid reminded him.

"Indeed." Alex sighed.

"I'm surprised about that. Shouldn't we just be on our way, continuing in our search, as always?" Adam asked.

"I'm not surprised." Ancel said as he took a swig of ale from his mug.

"You barely know the man, yet, you're not surprised?" Gerad said with his eyebrow quirked, curiously.

"True, Gerad. I don't know him as well as any of you. His reputation precedes him, however. I know he's a good leader. I knew this when I worked for the Sheriff of Hampshire. That's why I wanted to meet with him in the first place. Good leaders know when to take a step back and review their tactics." Ancel said as he set the mug back on the table.

"He's been a good leader in the last three years, truthfully. He was too rage filled to make sound decisions when he was after Hood. I don't know when you heard ravings about his leadership skills, Ancel, but, I'm glad for you it wasn't too long ago." Gerad said as he quirked his eyebrow knowingly over his piercing, vivid blue eyes.

"All we're doing is trying to find one bloke, Ancel. It's not like we're at war. It's really not that complicated." Alex said with a shrug.

"Well, it's not working. The Sheriff knows this. Sometimes you have to start back from the beginning. Sometimes clues get missed. You start again from the beginning, and follow where the evidence takes you." Ancel said simply.

"Interesting." Gerad said.

"And sensible." Mordrid added.

"Well, you would know about the clues, wouldn't you? You should know where the bloke is… shouldn't you?" Alex pressed as he narrowed his brown eyes upon Ancel, demanding a solid answer.

"I don't know where he is. I know what he's plotting, but, I have no idea where he went. Alas, I can try to read him, but, I can't read his mind." Ancel said.

"Would he have gone back to Portsmouth, perhaps?" Adam asked.

"Negative. That, I'm certain of. I thought he might be in the abandoned manor, but, that turned up nothing." Ancel sighed.

"Men, we're not here to interrogate Ancel. He already went through this with the Sheriff, the Captain, and the Lieutenant. Obviously he passed muster. There's no point talking about this because we'll be going over all of it again in the morning." Mordrid said as he took a sip of ale. "Plus, we need to keep our voices down when discussing topics of this nature." he strongly cautioned them.

"Indeed. No point in discussing it now. Let's save this enthusiasm for the Sheriff about this case." Luke agreed.

"I'm fine with that, mate. The last thing I want is to be nodding off out of boredom at the meeting, because we already discussed it tonight." Adam said.

"Indeed. He's liable to hang you if you do." Alex sighed.

"You must stop perpetuating these ridiculous fantasies that the Sheriff will have you killed because you looked at him the wrong way." Mordrid sighed.

"But, look what he did to Hector, Mordrid?" Alfred pointed out.

"Aye! And Cyrus who let Hood get away three years ago! The time that Locksley stole the Sheriff's horse, right after the bloke cut the Sheriff's face?" Alex added.

"That guard who let Hood get away was grossly incompetent, Alex. If Cyrus was doing his job correctly, Hood wouldn't have got past the portcullis. It was more than one egregious error that led to his demise. As for Hector, we all know what went wrong there. He freed the prisoner after spending too much time talking to him. Why he was talking to the murderous bloke is beyond me. The prisoner escaped and went on to kill two more maidens, and narrowly missed killing Hector's grieving widow — if you can call her that." Mordrid shook his head and took another swig of his ale, then continued. "The point is, the Sheriff does not execute members of his staff because he's having a bad day. There's good reasons behind it. None of you have ever made egregious errors. Unless you're planning to assist criminals, you needn't worry about such nonsense. Just do your duties and perform them well!" Mordrid said, folding his arms.

"Since you put it that way, I suppose you're right." Alex said.

"You know I am. We must stop this ludicrous rumour mill that our employer is hell bent on having a Knight standing on the scaffold on the regular. We will never accomplish a damned thing if the lot of you harbour fear that your Sheriff is going to kill you if you say the wrong thing, or look at him the wrong way!" Mordrid spat.

"Indeed, Mordrid. It takes focus off the work. We cannot perform well if there's fear of our employer. I don't personally understand the fear factor in this. He is clever and reasonable. He demands excellence, and that's not a bad thing. We were all chosen to work for him. He saw something in every one of us." Luke said.

"So much for a relaxing evening with my mates. I'm sort of glad now that us lower forms are only manning the portcullis. Aren't you, Alfred?" Drake looked to his left and grinned at Alfred.

"Indeed!" Alfred chuckled.

"I hope you were jesting by referring to yourselves as "lower forms" just now, Drake." Mordrid said, hooking the first two fingers of each of his hands around the insult as he spoke it.

"Of course, Mordrid. You should pour yourself some more of that ale." Drake said. "When did you become so boring? My God, you sound just like them now." he sighed.

Ancel looked to his right at Luke and whispered unobtrusively, "Who are the "them" he's referencing?"

"The Sheriff, Lieutenant, and the Captain." Luke whispered back with a smirk.

Ancel grinned, took a swig of ale then turned back to observe the banter.

"As I said, I will not be getting drunk tonight, Drake. I need my wits about me in the morning." Mordrid said with a knowing look. "And the only thing I'll say about your last comment is we're being seen right now. Look around you. There's servants scattering about, the chef coming out of the kitchen intermittently." he turned to address the rest of the men. "We're duty bound to maintain secrecy of investigations. So, keep your voices at a low simmer, and let's reserve our opinions on the stumpy bloke for the morrow." Mordrid strongly advised as he folded his arms; his eyebrow quirked knowingly over his blue eyes.

The servant returned to the table with another servant. She placed bowls in front of the two men, along with plates, beside them. Then she placed a basket of freshly baked bread in front of them, placing the basket between the candles burning in candelabrum on either side of it. The second servant ladled hearty venison stew into their bowls. Next she put out a tray of mini beef and kidney pies.

"Thank you, Miss." Luke said.

"Indeed." she said then took leave of them.

"The Sheriff of Hampshire didn't treat his men like this. That I can tell you all for certain." Ancel said to the men with a knowing glance.

"This isn't done every day, Ancel. But, if we're working late hours, or in the middle of, or completing an important mission, he'll open up the Dining Hall and invite us to take respite for a bit." Drake explained.

"This is perfect after a long, busy day." Luke said as he took a mouthful of stew.

"You're welcome, Luke." Nottingham grinned, as he surprised all of them by suddenly appearing behind his two newest recruits.

The Sheriff observed his men so deep in conversation when he walked into the room they never looked his way. He hoped they weren't openly discussing the investigation they were currently in the middle of.

"We're just finishing up, Milord." Mordrid explained.

The Sheriff raised a hand as he addressed them.

"At ease, men. You're not being timed." the Sheriff sighed.

"Will you join us, Milord Sheriff?" Luke asked.

"I thank you, lad, but, I only came by as I'm heading to the kitchen to speak to my chef for a moment." he cleared his throat and addressed all of the men at the table. "I'm pleased to see you all getting acquainted with Ancel. There's a reason I brought him on board, men. He has much to teach us." the Sheriff said.

The men regarded him intently. All except Luke and Mordrid were astonished at what the Sheriff just said about Ancel. Most of them stared, while Alex coughed as he'd just taken a sip of his ale at the same moment the Sheriff uttered the words.

"Again, I thank you for the opportunity, Milord; and I thank you for this, as well." Ancel nodded while gesturing to the items on the table as he spoke.

"Indeed, Ancel." Nottingham nodded. He looked to the rest of the men. "I shall see you all at the mid morning meeting on the morrow. Take your time here, but, do get plenty of rest. I want to see some alacrity in the morning, and I need your ideas." he added, firmly.

His men nodded and expressed agreement, and observed as the Sheriff took leave of them, heading to a door in the Dining Hall that led into the kitchen. They began to slowly disperse, beginning a half hour after Luke and Ancel were adequately nourished, and had both enjoyed a generous mug of ale.

Some time after the meeting with Jean Louis, and the brief visit with some of his men, the Sheriff was walking briskly toward his rooms on the second level. He saw Mortianna heading toward him. It appeared to him that she had been returning from an outing in the Village. She wore a black woollen cape over her gown, and the hood was still over her head. She carried a black velvet sack in her hand.

"Madam. Shouldn't you be in your apothecary at this time? Or were you meeting with the Druids at Dead Man's Curve or some place similarly strange?" the Sheriff quipped as he stopped to speak with her a moment.

"I was but brief, Milord. I went to visit the Merchant of Magick. You know the one? I needed to see him about a crystal ball he's recently been raving about. Anyway, thats of no matter. What I learned is of interest to you, my child. We should meet later. I have portents. Or, perhaps it's a mixture of fact and prophecy. We shall see…" the Witch remarked evasively.

"Right." Nottingham sighed. "I swear you're the Queen of obfuscation, Mortianna. I require a couple of hours, if that would work." he added with a quirk of his left eyebrow, curious if she had more news of this hypothetical fire that was portended to occur.

"Very well, Milord. I shall await your visit with fresh batwing tea, still steeping as you arrive. I shall use the other entrance to my apothecary for the moment." Mortianna nodded.

Then she turned and headed toward another set of stairs only used by the Sheriff and his staff, to get to the entrance she mostly used to access her lair.

Soon he reached the door, with footsteps approaching in back of him, of the servants bringing trays of the dishes he requested from his chef.

Nottingham opened the door into the den and held it open for the servants. He indicated a table where the brandy was often kept, and they placed the contents of the trays there.

Lady Rhiannon had resumed her former position on the sofa and was back to pretending to be reading her very large book about Erec and Enide. She closed the book with the journal contained inside and set them on the table when he entered in the room. After the servants left, she stood and walked toward him.

"My goodness, George. Were you helping Jean Louis in the kitchen or something? This looks delightful… " she said as she gestured toward the enticing food on the table. "… and you were gone quite a time, my love." Rhiannon said.

"I was making a request of my chef, my lady. Sometimes it's easier to make direct contact rather than sending a middle man to make my requests known for certain things. This was one of those instances." the Sheriff said.

"Thank you, my love. The enticing aroma is tickling my appetite." Rhiannon smiled.

"I'm pleased to hear that. Your appetite was poor for the longest time." the Sheriff said. "Come, my lady. You must sit. We'll get you comfortable and I shall bring you the food." he took her hand and led her back to the sofa.

"I'm fine, George, there's really no need to coddle — " Rhiannon was cut off.

"My lady, can you not just permit me to spoil you from time to time? Listen, I wasn't the nicest man to be around a few years ago, but, things changed and then I met you. I have the means to afford you everything you could desire. Let me look after you, my lady." Nottingham said with a sigh.

"Alright, my sweet. I will accept." Rhiannon smiled. She went to the sofa and seated herself.

He smiled then headed to the table. He soon returned with a small tray for her. There was a bowl of beef and mutton stew, along with the venison pies that Jean Louis was becoming most noted for. Rhiannon took the food gratefully.

"I didn't realize how hungry I was until you ushered in the food, my sweet." Rhiannon said moments later when they dined together.

"Good. You enjoy it, my lady." the Sheriff smiled as he took a swig of brandy.

"My sweet, are you sure all is well? With you, I mean." Rhiannon asked.

"Of course, Rhiannon. What's prompting this question" he countered.

"Just a subtle change I'm noticing in you. Like, your distance." she said.

He looked at her curiously.

"As always I have matters occupying my mind, but, all is well, Rhiannon. You mustn't give that notion another thought." the Sheriff said. He took a bite of the venison pie.

"I don't want to ever bore you, my love. I don't want you running away from me, I'd rather be the one you run to." she continued.

"Interesting. First of all, you're the one whose hand I asked for — for the rest of our lives. Second, it is not I who is being elusive of late, my dear." Nottingham remarked.

"I suppose. I just feel like you're somewhere else these days. You're here, but, your mind is elsewhere." Rhiannon said as she took a spoonful of the stew.

"I explained that, my lady. It's not my intent to create a distance between us. I know there hasn't been time for romantic gestures lately, but, even if there were time, there's hesitation there." the Sheriff explained.

"I see. Because of the child." Rhiannon said.

"It does create pause at times, yes. I'd like to take you away, my angel, but, even if I had the time to do so I'm concerned about taking you away from here in case…" he was interrupted.

"George, I just miss us. How we always were. So carefree, content, at ease with each other. I will only say this one time, and I do hope you will forgive me for saying this… " Rhiannon began, then let the words trail off as she contemplated if she was about to make a mistake?

The Sheriff set his bowl on the table in front of him, between he and his lady. He leaned forward and looked deeply into her eyes.

"What is it, my lady?" he asked softly, for, he could see she was clearly vexed about whatever was troubling her.

"Well, I never planned for this, George. The child, I mean. I would've been content to wait a good few years if there were a way to be close to you and still prevent it from happening. I feel like this… situation has ruined everything. It's ruining us, truth be told. I love the child already, but, I could've waited for him, my love. And that is it. Like I said, I shall never speak of this again. Don't be cross." Lady Rhiannon admitted her truth to him, looked downcast, and mentally chastised herself for admitting such a thing to anyone.

"Rhiannon. Look at me." the Sheriff said.

She obeyed and looked up to meet his gaze.

"My lady, I understand. You're more ambitious than any other woman I've known. It's natural to harbour some ambivalence." the Sheriff said.

"Really?" Rhiannon asked, incredulously.

"My dear, this is really no surprise to me. You've been more interested in horses, and daggers, and roughing it outdoors with me the entire time I've known you than gushing over infants. That doesn't mean you'll be a bad mother, though. Thus, I am not shocked in the least." Nottingham smiled. He picked up the goblet of brandy and took a generous swig.

"Are you tricking me or something? Jesting?" Rhiannon asked with her eyebrow quirked.

"What? No! It's not a trick, I've just listed actual facts. Rhiannon, I know if there were a way we could be intimate without the worry of creating a child you'd be on board with that, and I would fully support you." the Sheriff stated.

"Interesting. And you're right. I would be on board with that." Rhiannon said. She sighed. "I'm relieved, George. It's not the sort of thing a lady can speak of. Who could I tell? Meridwyn is excited for her child, and Robert and Isabelle long for one, but, Isabelle is unable for some reason." Rhiannon said.

"This is what has been troubling you lately, my lady?" he asked.

"Yes. There have been other things, like my sudden loss of freedom, longing for activity; but, when I got to the root of it, this was the conclusion. It all came down to how none of these things would be a problem if I were not with child." Rhiannon said.

"I see. It will be alright, my lady. You just need time to adjust. Don't think too much on that, because it will come to you. You will be a fine mother, and you needn't worry about being tethered to the child at every moment of every day and night. You shall have all the help you need." the Sheriff nodded, as he placed the goblet on the table.

"What kind of mother relies on others to mind her child?" Rhiannon asked.

"The happy ones who haven't taken complete leave of their senses, my lady." Nottingham smirked.

"I appreciate that, my love, but, this child is going to know both of us very well. I will accept the help, but, I won't be the kind of mother who never bothers with her child, either." Rhiannon explained.

"Good. I agree. And, you shall have all the help you require for you and our child, my lady. You're life will not end because of the infant, and you shall still have my devotion." Nottingham said.

"Thank you, my love. I'm grateful for you." Rhiannon smiled.

"It is nothing, my dear. I am thankful for you, too." he smiled back.

He stood and walked over to her, seating himself beside her on the sofa. The Sheriff reached around with his left hand, and gently touched her right cheek to turn her face toward him.

She looked into his amber hazel eyes, they were burning into hers like torches. Like… the way Lady Aelesia Nottingham described George's aunt's suitor forty one years ago. Hmm…

"My angel, listen to me. You mustn't spend too much time on these thoughts. Everything is going to be well. It wasn't my intent to make you feel distant from me. I desire you, my lady, but, I'm concerned about causing… damage, I suppose." Nottingham said. He dropped his hand, sighed, and closed his eyes briefly.

"I'm pleased to hear I'm still desirable, my prince. I think it would be fine, but, when you're ready for that I will be, too." Rhiannon said. She reached down and held his hand.

"You are my greatest treasure, my angel. Don't ever forget that." the Sheriff said.

"It means so much to me to hear you say that, my love." Rhiannon whispered.

"It is true, my sweet Rhiannon. Now and always." he said.

Rhiannon leaned into him and softly kissed his cheek.

"My lady… " he whispered, his warm breath on her neck. He stroked her silken locks as he spoke the words.

They embraced and held each other tightly.

"I miss your touch, George." Rhiannon whispered.

"I know, my angel. I think we need to give it a little more time. I don't want anything to happen to you or the child." the Sheriff said softly. He pulled away from her and looked into her soft green eyes.

"Yes, I understand. Maybe if we stop talking about it, it will be easier." she sighed.

"It's not easy, but, I think it's best… for now." Nottingham sighed.

"I'm sure you're right, George. I'll leave it to you to decide when the timing is right. I have your heart and that's all that matters." Rhiannon smiled.

"Indeed, you do, my lady. Always believe it. If you ever have doubts, all you need to do is ask." he smiled, warmly.

"I'm pleased you're warming to the child, my love." she said.

"Of course, my lady. I was taken aback, but, not unhappy about it. I'm chagrined you thought I was." he frowned.

"Perhaps it's just a little of the preconceived notion coming through. The nagging doubt that you are known throughout the land as being anything but the tied-down variety of… gentleman." Rhiannon said.

"Indeed. That was how it was before I met you, my dear. No one was working out, because, evidently I was waiting for you to arrive — I just didn't know it yet." he said with a smile.

"Your phrasing and your voice are like a gentle lullaby, my love. I'm so at ease having you close to me, speaking those words that I'm relaxed enough to sleep." Rhiannon said with a contented sigh, as she held unto him fast.

"Perhaps that's what you need, my angel." Nottingham said.

"Only if you join me. Just talk to me. You can speak about whatever you wish." Rhiannon said.

"Alright, my lady. Come." he said as he took her by the hand and led her into the bedchamber.

Later, she was wearing her shift, and nestled against him under a thick blanket. The Sheriff was lying supine on top of the blanket, engaging in idle chatter as she was dosing on and off.

"Aren't you chilled, my sweet?" she asked.

"There's a fire burning in the fireplace, my dear. Can't you feel the heat from it?" he countered.

"I suppose not. But, I can feel that chill night wind flowing in through the window." she said with a yawn.

"Yes. Of course, you can, my dear." Nottingham chuckled.

"What shall we name our boy, George? Have you any ideas?" Rhiannon whispered.

I don't know, my angel, but, I've some ideas on names for the boy you've forgotten about. Satan's teeth! It would be so much easier if you could just remember our son, Rhiannon… Nottingham closed his eyes and sighed.

"I haven't thought of it, my lady. I'm trying to take this in steps. We need to get through a few hurdles first, and then I can lend some thought to it. I don't want to ruin it by having a name picked out too soon, if you get where I'm going with this." the Sheriff said with a knowing glance.

"Yes. I think I do. Like, perhaps you're worried if we do it will bring bad luck?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes, something like that." he said.

"Very well." she said with a yawn.

"And when the time comes we shall discuss names for a girl, as well, my lady. You keep forgetting about the odds every time you speak of it. Just like Gis who is convinced he is having a daughter." Nottingham said.

"I suppose we can, if it will make you feel better." Rhiannon yawned.

"You're quite convinced, as well, Rhiannon?" Nottingham asked, curiously.

"Yes. I've always had a very strong gut feeling that my firstborn would be a son, my love. I don't know why. It's probably nothing. Just a foolish notion." Rhiannon said.

The Sheriff's eyes widened, and his mouth gaped just slightly — because he caught himself and prevented it from gaping further. He felt a shiver run through him just then..

"Are you alright, my love?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes, my angel. All is well." he smiled.

"The look on your face told me otherwise, George." she said.

"Just surprised that you said that. You've never mentioned having any thoughts of motherhood before." the Sheriff said.

"Yes. That's because until now, that was the only thought there was. It's not that significant, my love." Rhiannon said.

"It's definitely interesting, my lady." Nottingham sighed.

"I suppose. What part of it is interesting?" she asked.

"The strong gut feeling about it. It's like a prophecy… sort of." he caught himself, then added the words at the end.

"Well, we don't know that for certain yet, but, I can't deny the strong sense about it that I have." Rhiannon yawned.

"Yes, that's why I made an attempt to rephrase." he said.

"How old was your mother when she died?" Rhiannon asked, abruptly changing the topic. She was trying to picture Lady Aelesia in her mind, especially now as she was reading the lady's own words.

"I'm not sure exactly. She was young. They both were. Younger than I am now. I think early thirties, but, I'd have to ask Thomas for clarification. My cousin didn't meet them as he is much younger than I. He doesn't even remember his own mother. Alas, there's no one to ask besides my medicus, my lady." the Sheriff said, bewildered that she had circled the conversation back around to his mother.

"No other relatives? Aunts or uncles, or… " Rhiannon asked tentatively.

She couldn't forget the words written by his mother: "I was given this book by my Aunt Mortianna to write whatever I wish." When was he planning to tell her Mortianna is his great aunt? Does he know? Whom other Mortianna could there be? She's the right age to be so. It fits. She's related to him! Why am I finding this out from my dead mother in law? Rhiannon sighed.

"No. There is no one, my lady. Guy is the only true relative." Nottingham said, fixing his amber hazel eyes on hers, unblinking.

"No great aunts or uncles?" Rhiannon pressed.

"No. None on either side of the family. Why?" he asked as his left eyebrow shot north.

She was shocked at this admission, though she succeeded in concealing it. He didn't know. He truly didn't know? Or… is he just a very clever liar? No. He's not fibbing. He looked me dead in the eyes. My God… he doesn't know Mortianna is his aunt? Why would she keep this from her grand nephews, George and Guy? They don't have mothers; hey might appreciate knowing she's their aunt… What on earth is happening?

"Just wondering, that's all. I wish I could know more about her. What she looked like, what she liked to do with her time." Rhiannon said.

"Fascinating that you would care so much, my dear." he sighed.

"I am wearing her ring, and I'm marrying her son. Naturally, I would have liked to have known her." Rhiannon smiled.

"Yes, my lady. Me too. Well, let me see now… I have to go back in my mind to what Thomas has said over the years. Hmm…" he paused a moment. "She was average height… slender. Thomas said she had wavy dark hair, and caramel coloured eyes. She was educated, clever, creative, and a doting wife and mother." Nottingham said.

"She has no aunts or uncles you know of?" Rhiannon asked again.

"None that are living. No." he said.

"Oh. I see. That's too bad, George." Rhiannon said with a stifled yawn.

"It is what it is, my lady. I'm fine with it. I have Guy, and he's considered more of a brother than a cousin, if the truth be told." the Sheriff said.

"Maybe because he…" she stopped herself. She only nearly let her thoughts escape because of fatigue.

Curses! If this journal of Lady Aelesia's points to something critical like that, I can't tell him this way. He's acting like he doesn't even know he has an aunt -- living right here in this castle. His own counsel! Obviously, Sir Guy doesn't know this, either, if George doesn't know that Mortianna is their aunt.How long were Osric and Evie married? We're they together that long before Guy was born? What the hell is even happening? Oh, why did I take that cursed journal to read, and why has she pulled me in to her world? Now, I'm privy to things I shouldn't know. Except for Mortianna, the key players don't even know!

"Maybe he is… what?" Nottingham asked, curiously.

"It is nothing. It's just that if you consider Guy a brother, then he is." Rhiannon said.

"He is like one, I suppose. I wouldn't know, and neither would he. It's not like you and Robert. Not true siblings as only you two would truly know." Nottingham said.

"From what I can see it's really not that much different, my love." Rhiannon said.

"I only told you the details of my family because you will be my wife, by the way. I only speak of these things with Guy, and that's if the topic comes up, which is seldom." Nottingham said.

"I know, my love. Although, I'm a little surprised you've told no one before me." Rhiannon said as she stifled a yawn.

"It's personal, my lady. No one else needs to know. You're the only one I've felt comfortable enough to speak about it. The only others are Guy, and, on occasion, Thomas. But that's only because Thomas was a life long close friend of my father's, and, by extension, a friend to my mother." Nottingham explained.

"I see… " Rhiannon whispered. Her lashes began to flutter as her eyelids grew heavy.

"Sleep, my angel." the Sheriff whispered as he stroked her hair.

She was fast asleep in moments. Nottingham stayed with her several minutes more to make sure she was indeed asleep, then he threw his voluminous robe on over his tunic and breeches, topped up his goblet with brandy, and went on his way.

Mortianna was checking on the small cauldron that was brewing the batwing tea when the Sheriff entered into her apothecary.

"You're just in time. The tea is ready, child." Mortianna said.

"Right." Nottingham said as he seated himself at the table.

The witch brought two cups over to the table and passed him one as she seated herself across from him.

"Tell me, Mortianna — what portents could you have possibly gathered from a visit with that… what did you call him?" the Sheriff asked pointedly as his left eyebrow shot north.

"He is Friar Capellarius. Also known as the Merchant of Magick. He runs a private, by appointment only shop just outside of the Village on the route to Sherwood; where I obtain my implements." Mortianna explained.

"A Friar? Really?" the Sheriff chortled.

"Yes. Isn't the irony sweet, my child? I thought I told you of him once before." the witch said.

"No, I would've remembered that one for sure. A Friar — supplying you!" he laughed.

"Yes." the witch muttered as she sipped of her tea.

"What is it you wish to tell me, Madam?" Nottingham asked directly.

"I know about the dark haired consort who poisoned you — and I know her motives" Mortianna announced, matter of factly.

"Wait… what?" the Sheriff asked slowly, evenly. "Explain yourself!"

"She had been to see the Friar just before I arrived. I only know of this because he said the maiden who saw him right before me had dropped your name. I was curious, so I pressed him further, then did my own checking when his back was turned." Mortianna hinted with a quirk of her brow.

"I need to know why the hell she mentioned me to anyone; and if you could explain what you mean by "checking", that would be grand." Nottingham sighed then took a generous swig of brandy from the goblet he brought with him.

"I had an appointment to see him, and, once inside, he mentioned it was coincidental that I just missed the last patron as she had mentioned you. So I asked him about it." Mortianna began.

"And?"

"He said the maiden was there to see him about obtaining sugar cane tonic as her supply was running low. She stayed for a cup of tea, and told him she was planning a future with you." the witch sighed, shaking her head.

"What in the name of Zeus? You can't be serious!" Nottingham spat.

"Indeed. Absolute lunacy." Mortianna muttered with another shake of her head.

"Why would she need to see him? What would she need sugar cane tonic for?" the Sheriff asked, curiously.

"Well, I can only think of one reason in her case. It's not generally used in spells, and if one had a sweet tooth they needn't make a visit to an apothecary to obtain sugar. She's trying to gain weight." Mortianna hinted.

"What? None of this makes sense!" Nottingham huffed.

"Oh, it shall, child." the witch sighed.

"Is this when you explain to me how you "checked" for yourself?" a beat. "You best keep talking, Madam. I need to know every detail." Nottingham urged.

"When Friar Capellarius left the room to gather some items to show me, I saw a cup on a table nearby. I walked toward it and picked it up. There were tea leaves scattered on the bottom of it. I held it and peered within and it all came to me. As I suspected, it turned out that was the cup she drank from." Mortianna grinned.

"And what did you see?" Nottingham asked.

"First I saw a brief glimpse of the night she came to see you. I saw her pouring something from a vial into your goblet of brandy, my child. Next, I saw her visiting with a beautiful witch. She was asking the woman to help her with… " Mortianna stopped suddenly. She shook her head, still in disbelief.

"Help her with… what, exactly?" the Sheriff asked.

"Help her to fake being with child. That's why she's taking the sugar cane tonic — to gain weight." Mortianna said.

"Well, she can gain all the weight she wants. She can't produce an infant in the appropriate timeframe, though — can she?" Nottingham laughed. "She is a fool."

"What if she could?" Mortianna hinted.

"What's she going to do? Kidnap an infant? Great. As if we haven't already been through that once." the Sheriff sighed. He took another sip of brandy from his goblet.

"Almost as bad. She met with her pregnant cousin who is giving her the infant to go along with the ruse." Mortianna said with her eyebrow quirked knowingly.

"Madness! That cursed, vile little bitch!" Nottingham spat.

"Now you know. What will you do, Milord?" the witch asked.

"I was already looking for her to dole out punishment for the poisoning incident. She was out of town for some time. I've been getting reports from Madam Birghiva. I'm deciding on her punishment. She will be dealt with swiftly, that I can assure you!" Nottingham said evenly.

"She met with the witch when she was visiting her hometown. The witch is a friend. That I could see when the vision came to me." a beat. "She's trying to thwart your nuptials, my child." the witch said.

"Yes. Who isn't theses days?" the Sheriff muttered. "And what of the fire you saw? Have you seen that vision again?" he asked.

"No. I haven't seen it again, Milord." Mortianna said as she sipped of her tea.

"Good. Does that mean it is no longer a threat?" he asked pointedly.

"Not necessarily, but, it's reassuring that the vision hasn't been repeated, my child." the witch explained.

"Let us hope." the Sheriff said as he sipped of the batwing tea, only to be polite. Then he quickly followed it with the more pleasing taste of his brandy.

"Indeed. However, it's looking like the dark haired, devious consort might be the more pressing problem, my child." the witch redirected him. She still had a few points of mention that he needed to be aware of.

"Yes, and as I said, she will be handled swiftly, Madam." the Sheriff said firmly.

"I didn't know you've been dallying with consorts, my child." Mortianna said as she sipped of her tea.

"The wedding was off. I was imbibing that night. Then she appeared at my door. She poisoned me with something strong enough that I have no memory of anything except mistaking her for my bride to be. I didn't find out about the poison until after she was gone when I found the vial on the floor. The cursed little bitch shall be dealt with, Madam. I won't explain any further." the Sheriff stated firmly.

He was partly lying, but, the witch didn't need to know he invited the courtesan to visit that second time. Mortianna didn't need to know every detail, and, to him, it didn't matter anyway because soon after she arrived he thought he was with Rhiannon.

"You don't need to explain. I saw what she did to ye. The poisoning, I mean; and I know what she was planning. She is a devious sort, Milord. I see only one option." the witch hinted.

"Yes. Although, I've also thought about sending her to a leper colony." the Sheriff mused.

"Until it's noticed she doesn't have leprosy — then she just becomes an ongoing problem, Milord." Mortianna shrugged.

"Perhaps. But, once a person is sent to one there is no coming back. The disease is highly contagious and she would be exposed, regardless." the Sheriff reminded her.

"True. She'd probably catch it while there, but, she'd still be able to communicate." a beat. "Do ye want to risk that?" Mortianna asked.

"Perhaps you're right. I shall take care of her on the morrow." Nottingham said as he took a swig of his brandy.

"Remember I told you I know her motives? The mistress is obsessed with ye, Milord — and I'm not meaning that in a flattering way." Mortianna began. She reached across and lightly touched his left wrist with her right hand.

The Sheriff glanced down at her hand then lifted his eyes back up to hers to meet her gaze.

"There's more, isn't there, Madam?" Nottingham asked.

"She has delusions of tricking ye into marrying her because she is deeply obsessed. She believes it's love, but, she is gravely mistaken. I could feel these emotions from her when I read her through the tea leaves. I also was able to observe her in the visions, and she's very unbalanced, my child, to say the least." Mortianna warned.

"I see." Nottingham frowned.

"Milord, the manner in which her mind operates is a problem. She lives in a fantasy world, and has a loose tongue. This, we know. She is a liability." the witch pointed out.

"Yes, it's appearing that way, isn't it?" he sighed. "I want it to be clean this time." Nottingham said.

"Then, I can help with that, Milord." Mortianna hinted.

"Poison. Bah! Most people writhe in agony. She's a devious wretch, but, I'm not sure she deserves that manner of death, either." the Sheriff said firmly.

"Not all poisons are like that, Milord. Some are quite effective. Let me tell you about foxglove, and you can decide overnight if you'd like to see me about that on the morrow." Mortianna said with a knowing glance as she set her cup of batwing tea on the table.

Nottingham sat at a chair near to the window of his den, back in the private chambers. He knew there was no point attempting sleep, for his thoughts were racing. He had many items to mull over, it was all part and parcel of his responsibilities, and he accepted that. He knew when to take advantage of time alone to lend contemplation of any matters at hand.

He sipped of his brandy as he gazed outside the window at the half moon, which was bathing the decaying fauna below in soft, bright light; debating how to proceed with the punishment of Mistress Celestria. The beautiful and scheming consort who poisoned him, managed to trick him once — twice if he added in the lies Celestria told Rhiannon pertaining to their first meeting; and is attempting to trick him again — after he bade her warning.

His plan all along was to kill her. By his own hand would make it easier. There would be no trial, no whining in the dungeon, none of the usual pomp with a public execution. However, he was trying to be better, especially for Rhiannon's sake, and he wondered if there were some other sentence he could give her that didn't involve death?

The Sheriff thought about several varieties of discipline to dole out to her. He could send her to a leper colony knowing full well she would contract the disease in no time, but, that seemed a fate worse than death. Did she really deserve that? He wondered.

Wouldn't it be better to just kill her quickly and get it over with? Perhaps I should sentence her to a few years in the dungeon? Except, she'd be the only woman in there. What if one of the other prisoners broke free? They would harm her, probably violate her. That doesn't seem fair, either. Exile might work. Is banishment appropriate for her crime?

Nottingham exhaled a sigh then took another sip of the brandy.

No. Don't go soft, Nottingham. You already told her what the punishment would be. Keeping her alive will complicate things. Always eliminate doubt.

He could recall his own words to her when he bade her warning of the consequences for tricking him. Could hear his own voice echoing in his memory: "… if I ever find out you tried to trick me, you shall die. I can't promise you anything, but, I can promise you that."

The Sheriff frowned. He still felt torn. He knew what the best option was, but if Rhiannon found out, could she forgive him? Even if he shared with her what Celestria's crimes were?

He shook his head. Alas, therein lies the other problem. He would never be able to tell Rhiannon the true reasons behind it.

Either way, he had a decision to make, and he would have to stand by it. Her act of poisoning an appointed official meant that she could lawfully be executed for her crime. Nottingham knew that if that were the option he chose for the consort's sentence, he could never let Rhiannon know about it.