On Wednesday morning, there was a heavy storm in progress over Nottingham. A lashing rain and fierce winds were present, which awakened almost everyone in the castle. All… except for the Sheriff.

Lady Rhiannon and Mortianna had just finished administering the wine and cloves mixture to him. Thomas was expected to return in an hour's time to change out the leeches. Rhiannon arranged for Mortianna to sit with him as there was someone she needed to see. She kissed her betrothed on the forehead, and reassured Mortianna she'd be returning shortly, then she took her leave.

Madam Oberon was a bit surprised to see her when she answered the knock on her door.

"Bonjour, Mademoiselle Rhiannon." she smiled. She successfully concealed the frown that threatened to form when she saw the lady's arm in a sling.

"Bonjour, Madame. I need to talk to you about something. It's… going to influence the fit of… my gown."

"I see. Your arm, no doubt. Do come in, mon cher." Madam Oberon said as she beckoned for her to enter. She led Rhiannon into the salon and gestured toward a chair there. "Take a seat, s'il vous plaît."

"Merci, Madame." Rhiannon said as she took a seat in the chair.

"What is on your mind, mon cher?" Madam Oberon asked curiously, as she sat opposite to Rhiannon.

"Very early on Monday morning, the… child I was carrying… came too soon." Rhiannon sighed, then looked downcast.

"Oh, no. Je suis vraiment désolé d'entendre ça, Mademoiselle Rhiannon." (I'm very sorry to hear that.)

"Merci, Madame Oberon. I am… sorry, too."

"It is a great loss to you both. How are you feeling? You look a wee bit pale, mon cher. And, what of your arm?

"I'm… feeling well. The sling will be coming off tonight. That was an accident that occurred on Sunday. It's fine. But, you've had babies, Madame. You know what generally comes with that. I'm… still bleeding a little, and I'm wearing bindings around my… bosom. Forgive me for speaking of such things, but I can't help but think about how this will… work while wearing an exquisite white wedding gown. Not that it matters in the grand scheme of things, but you worked hard on it, and it's something to take my mind off of… everything." she explained.

"Of course, Mademoiselle. I can tell you that in my case the bleeding had nearly stopped by a week in. I don't know about the… milk, however. I had a baby to nurse. I'm not certain how it works in a case like yours. Ne vous inquiétez pas, mon cher. We shall work around it." Madam Oberon smiled. (Do not fret, my dear.)

"Merci, Madame."

"Now, Floria and I were just working on it yesterday, mon cher. She had a brilliant idea about the bod — "

"I need to stop you a moment, Madame. I hope you know it's imperative that what I've told you remains private. There were very few people who knew of the child — I'm sure I don't need to stress the reasons for that." Rhiannon said with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"Of course, Mademoiselle Rhiannon."

"My betrothed is not even aware you knew about it. But, I knew that it would direct the gown fittings, and that I could trust you with knowing the truth. And now, it may change the fit once more. I don't know if it may need altering, yet again."

"Understood, Mademoiselle." Madam Oberon nodded.

"Now that we've cleared that up, what were you going to say about Floria's idea?" Rhiannon asked.

"She had a lovely thought for adornment across the top of the bodice. A lovely ribbon she had on hand that would compliment it, to be added as trim along the top. I pinned it there to show you first. It has not been added without your approval." Madam Oberon explained.

"Sounds intriguing. I should like to see how that looks, Madame."

"I will show you, but even if you want it added, I suggest I don't sew it yet. We should give it a few days for your body to adjust to the changes. I suggest we measure you again either Saturday, or Sunday, then go from there."

"Isn't that cutting it a bit close to the wedding day, Madame?"

"Non. The gown is essentially completed. It may need to be taken in around the bodice, but that can be easily accomplished."

"I see. If it does need to be taken in, can we accomplish that without Floria knowing? I realize she is your assistant, but I want to avoid any questions she will have about… why I've lost weight in such a short span of time. You understand?"

"Of course, mon cher. I was going to suggest the same. I do not wish to add to your grief."

"Merci, Madame. I am most grateful for your understanding." Rhiannon said.

"De rien, mon cher. Are you… alright?"

"Oui, Madame. It's a difficult time, but I'm managing. My betrothed is… helping me through it." she said.

It wasn't really a lie, because he was supportive. And now, he was getting her through it because she'd been so focused on helping him the last couple of days, that she had no choice. But, it wasn't her place to share what her betrothed was now trying to overcome. He was very private, and was very select with whom would be permitted to know the details of his own health.

"I'm pleased to hear that, for I can tell you're not sleeping well. You're quite pale, and there's dark circles under your eyes. You must look after yourself, mon cher. I want you to look your best on Tuesday." Madam Oberon smiled.

"Of course, Madame."

"Would you like to see how the ribbon looks as trim?"

"Oui, Madame. I'm most interested to see it." Rhiannon smiled.

"I shall bring it out to show you." Madam Oberon said as she arose from her chair.

The armoury was bustling with activity this day. Besides the routine day to day tasks, Stephanus was working on fashioning a dagger with Robert's assistance, and Eustace was preparing to get everything in order for the sword he'd be working on, as a gift for the Sheriff.

"How goes it, Eustace? Everything is ready?" Robert asked.

"Aye. The only thing missing is the steel." Eustace said.

"I hope the weather doesn't hold him up." Robert said.

"Oh, I'm sure we'll hear about it. Whenever Florez comes on a bad weather day — which is ninety percent of the time, we all hear about it." Eustace sighed.

"Yes, I suppose. It's rather warm over there, I imagine." Robert guessed.

"The way he tells it, it's the best place in the world."

"At what point in the day does he usually turn up?" Robert asked.

"Generally, morning. I expect he shall be arriving shortly." Eustace said.

"Very well. I'm just putting the finishing touches on the sketch of the design of the sword. I expect we shall be starting on that soon after the steel arrives."

"I'll be ready, Robert." Eustace said.

A short time later, Robert was summoned to the door. He nodded to Eustace to follow him. Borin, the tall, ginger haired sentry posted at the door, announced the arrival of the supplier from Spain.

"Very well. Send him in." Robert nodded.

"Prepare yourself. He's quite the character." Eustace chuckled.

"Intriguing." Robert grinned.

"He's brought a number of crates with him, Robert. I hope you can find room for them?" Borin sighed.

"Don't we always find room for them, Borin?" Robert asked.

"Aye, but this seems a bit more than usual — for some strange reason."

"We will make it work." Robert nodded.

The sentry nodded then went outside the door. In moments he was back, showing the supplier from Spain into the armoury.

Robert smiled when the colourfully dressed, dark haired man of medium height, with a sun kissed complexion was shown inside.

"Ah! Buenos dias, Eustace!" the man smiled.

"Good morrow, Diego. Nice to see you again." Eustace smiled.

"Good day. I'm Robert, the Chief Blacksmith of this operation. Thank you for travelling such a long way to deliver us the steel." Robert said.

"Buenos días, Señor Robert. I am Diego Florez. My employer, Maximus Herrero, has a long-standing agreement with mi Señor Sheriff. We are pleased to bring it to you. Too bad about the… horribles condiciones climáticas, though." Diego shook his head and shuddered.

"The… which, Señor?" Robert asked.

"Well, that didn't take long for a comment." Eustace scoffed.

"Ah. Right. Forgive me. Sometimes I forget where I am. Although, I don't know how on a… dia como este." Diego sighed. (day like this) "What I said was: horrible weather conditions. I don't know how you English stand it. Do you even know what sunshine looks like?" he asked as he narrowed his brown eyes.

"We do see it… from time to time." Robert said, dryly.

"You must visit Spain sometime, Señor Robert. You may never wish to return." Diego chuckled.

"Indeed." Robert nodded.

"So, if you're the Chief Blacksmith, what has happened to Stephanus? He held your position for years." Diego said.

"I took over the role when… Stephanus lost his sight. He is still working here as my assistant." Robert said.

"That is most unfortunate about his sight, but, I'm glad to hear it has not affected his work too much." Diego said.

"He manages quite well. We are pleased, also." Robert nodded. "Now, where are the crates? I'm told there's quite an ample supply."

"Si! It should keep you going for a good while, Señor."

"Right. May we see them?"

"Ah, si, Señor Robert." Diego said. He looked to Borin who was standing just inside the door awaiting further instruction. "Do send them in." he said.

Borin nodded then held the door open as several wooden crates of Spanish steel were carried inside by a group of five men Diego brought with him.

"Uh… is this a normal supply? It seems excessive, but, maybe… that's just me?" Robert remarked as he narrowed his eyes, while counting the crates that kept passing by him. He wondered if there would be an end to it? Finally, he counted ten of them.

"It's definitely more than our usual shipment." Eustace said.

"Señor Herrero wanted you to have an extra supply as I won't be returning until January, Señor Robert. I will be be back the primer Miércoles of January, as usual."

"I'm sorry, the… which?" Robert asked.

"Perdóname. The first Wednesday in January." Diego said. (Forgive me)

"Why the gap in shipments, Diego?" Eustace asked.

"December is an important month for us in Spain. Celebrations for days as Yule approaches. We are highly religious there." Diego explained.

"I see." Robert said.

"I'm certain it hasn't been a problem in the past, though? I could swear you were here last December, and the one before that, too?" Eustace pointed out.

"Si. And your clima loco makes travel rather treacherous each December."

"Clima… what?" Robert asked.

"Crazy weather, Señor. Your weather here is loco!"

"Indeed." Robert sighed.

"I must remember that word for the times my wife acts up. I'll just refer to her as acting loco and she won't have a clue what I'm talking about." Eustace chuckled.

"Ah! Bueno, Eustace. But don't say that about the mujeres should you ever visit Spain. They may smack you with a wooden spoon, or something." Diego grinned.

"Mujeres… I'm guessing that is the Spanish word for ladies?" Robert asked.

"Si, Señor Robert. Women, to be precise about it." Diego said.

"I see." Robert nodded. "I'm rather surprised you bring it all this way from the port, after travelling by ship. Wouldn't it be easier to have people from Nottingham pick it up there when the ship arrives, then they bring it here, so you can be on your way?"

"We tried that once. A disastrous decision. The steel was stolen at the port by men claiming to be from Nottingham. Alas, they were not." Diego said, shaking his head.

"He's right. They were Celts." Eustace sneered.

"That's a shame. That's a lot of travelling for you and your men." Robert said to Diego.

"Indeed, but things have run smoothly ever since Señor Herrero and mi Señor Sheriff devised a new plan." Diego said.

"Yes, I'm sure." Robert nodded.

"Now, where is mi Señor Sheriff? We often meet after I deliver the shipments. Señor Herrero has sent a wedding gift along for he and his futura novia." Diego asked.

"I assume that means… let me guess. Bride to be?" Robert asked.

"Si." Diego nodded. "Would he be in the Council Quarters? We usually meet there, or in his office."

"I'll show the men where to put the crates, Robert." Eustace interrupted.

Robert nodded, then Eustace directed Diego's men.

"I'm afraid Milord Sheriff is unavailable at the moment. He is… away for a few days." Robert said.

"Eso es muy malo. Perhaps we can meet when I return in two month's time?" Diego said.

"Of course. What was the first part you said, if you don't mind, Señor?"

"Ah! Perdóname. I said: that's too bad." Diego smiled.

"Yes. It is." Robert agreed.

"Do send my regards to him, and pass along my best wishes on his próximas nupcias!" he exclaimed. Then he straightened his expression. "Perdóname. I meant… upcoming nuptials." Diego explained.

"I shall do that, Señor Diego. Now, does the Scribe know you're here? I'm assuming he takes care of payment when Milord Sheriff is unavailable?"

"Si, he does take care of that. And, si. He knows I am here. I'll leave the gift for mi Señor Sheriff with him. I also brought something for one of mi Señor Sheriff's men. I'll leave that with the Scribe, too. Didn't see him at the portcullis." Diego commented with a shrug.

"You're friendly with one of the Black Knights?" Robert asked.

"Si. We spoke the last couple of times I arrived. He's bastante amigable." Diego smiled.

"I'm sorry?" Robert asked.

"Perdóname. He is quite friendly. He asked how I'm always… how you say? Ah, si! Full of energy. I brought him a little something that helps with that." Diego winked.

"That's very kind of you, Señor Diego. I'm sure he will appreciate that. Now, how do I say thank you in Spanish?" Robert asked.

"Simple, Señor Robert. Only one word: gracias." Diego smiled.

"Gracias, Diego. It was a pleasure to meet you." Robert smiled.

"Indeed. Likewise, Señor Robert. I shall see you in two month's time. You best stay warm until then. Last December I was here, there was snow." a beat. "¡Simplemente terrible!" Diego exclaimed with a shudder." (just terrible)

"Yes. It can be." Robert grinned.

Diego walked a little past Robert and looked to his men, clapping his hands a couple of times.

"Severo! Amadis! Ramiro! Alejandro! Guiomar!" he called to them. "Nosotros hemos terminado aqui. Ve ahora al carruaje. Me uniré a usted en breve." (We are done here. Go now to the carriage. I shall join you shortly.)

"Si, Diego!" one of the men answered.

Within moments the five men had walked past Robert, smiling and nodding at him on their way out of the door.

Eustace appeared before them again.

"Everything is in order, Robert. The crates were all opened and inspected." he said.

"Perfect." Robert said.

"Until next time, Diego. Safe journey to you and your men." Eustace said.

"Yes. Safe travels." Robert agreed.

"Gracias, hombres. I truly hope so." Diego said. Then he nodded to them both before taking his leave.

Rhiannon returned to the private chambers immediately following her meeting with Madam Oberon. When she opened the doors of the bedchamber, she frowned. The Sheriff was exactly where she left him, still reclined on the bed, asleep.

Mortianna looked up. She was seated on the chair.

"Has he not awakened, Mortianna?" Rhiannon asked.

"No, Milady."

"What? This is lunacy. He awakened late yesterday afternoon. He was awake for several hours. He even met with Sir Guy, and one of his top men, Luke. I don't understand? Did you try to rouse him, Mortianna?" she asked as she swiftly walked to the bedside.

"Yes. A couple of times. Perhaps that burst of energy left him tired?"

"It is very strange, indeed." Rhiannon sighed. She reached down and felt his forehead with her palm. "His skin feels the right temperature. Hopefully, Thomas will have some answers. He is due back here shortly to change out the leeches. Perhaps he should give the bloodletting a break for a time. Maybe it's… too much for George?"

"A fair question for him when he comes to look in on Milord Sheriff. I thought he was on a solid path of recovery, too — after seeing him last evening." Mortianna said as she stood from the chair.

"Oh, there will be questions, believe me." Rhiannon sighed, shaking her head.

"Sit with him, child. Perhaps he'll respond better with you talking to him? I will return in a moment with a nice cup of steaming wheatgrass tea for ye." Mortianna smiled.

"Thank you." she said

After the witch left her, she sat on the bed beside him, looking upon him with great concern. She reached out and touched his face, softly caressing his cheek.

"My love? You must wake up now. You did for me yesterday." Rhiannon said.

He didn't respond to her words. His breathing was normal and even. He truly appeared to be in a deep sleep.

"George! Come, my sweet. It is well past mid morning. You don't need to move from this bed, but, at least wake for me."

She couldn't even detect a tensing in his facial muscles in response to her voice.

"I'm not giving up, my love. Neither should you." she sighed.

A short time later, she greeted Thomas at the door when he arrived to look in on the Sheriff.

"How is he now, Lady Rhiannon? Still ornery about the leeches?" Thomas asked.

"I wish he were. That, I can handle. He has not awakened, Thomas. He fell asleep late last night, and he's been like that ever since." Rhiannon said with a quirk of her brow.

"That's rather unusual. Has the fever returned?" Thomas asked.

"No. His skin feels normal in temperature."

"Perhaps the act of changing the leeches will bring him around?" Thomas mused.

"Or, maybe they're too much for him now, Thomas? Maybe we need to give the cursed bloodletting a rest for awhile? If he were still in a state of… contagion… or whatever, wouldn't his temperature be elevated? His bandage is dry, no drainage seen on it. So, what else is there? The leeches are sucking the life force from him — I'm certain of it." Rhiannon suggested, firmly.

"We shall see." Thomas said.

She led him into the bedchamber. Thomas set his bag on a table then proceeded to the bed to examine the Sheriff.

"Have you spoken to him? Tried to awaken him?" he asked.

"Yes. Mortianna and I have both tried that." she nodded.

"Milord Sheriff?" Thomas said as he patted his face.

"See? He does nothing! What on earth is going on, Thomas?" she demanded.

"It is quite puzzling. You're right. The fever is gone." Thomas said. Then he pulled the blanket down and lifted the Sheriff's tunic to better see the bandage and the leeches. "Hmm. You're right about his dressing, too. It's clean and dry."

"It's got to be the leeches, Thomas. What else could it be? At some point the bloodletting must stop. Perhaps he has reached his limit with that."

Thomas went to his bag and extracted a tool from it. He took it back to the bedside and sat beside the Sheriff on the bed.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"First, I'm going to use these forceps to remove the leeches. Then, I'm going to loosen the bandage to inspect the wound." Thomas said.

"Very well." she relented.

Just then Mortianna arrived to the private chamber. She passed the cup of wheatgrass tea to Rhiannon.

"I can't believe he is not responding to that." Mortianna said, referring to Thomas removing the leeches one by one.

"Considering his reaction to them, it is truly puzzling, indeed." Rhiannon agreed.

After he removed the last one, Thomas lifted the bandage, pulling it back to better visualize the wound. Then he pressed gently on the skin surrounding the wound, using clean gauze.

"Can you explain what you're doing, Thomas?" Rhiannon asked.

"The wound is still closed with no drainage present. Healing is starting. Pressing on the skin around it helps me to know if something is happening inside there that we cannot see. If blood or pus was collecting inside, there would be hardened tissue felt." Thomas explained.

Rhiannon took a seat in the chair just then, placing her cup of wheatgrass tea on the table beside her. She felt queasy just then.

"Everything appears normal." Thomas said as he reapplied the bandage.

"So, the wound is healing. Things appear normal and as they should be, yet, he's in a state like this. Again." a beat. "No more leeches, Thomas. Not now. He's had those things constantly applied since you repaired the damage to him. It's too much for him. I'm certain of it!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"And, I'm certain they have helped him." Thomas said.

"Well, someone must advocate for him. And, that would be me! Didn't you say he lost a great deal of blood? That was why you chose leeches as the method for bloodletting. Perhaps he's had too much blood let out of him now. I am sure the blood that is running through him — he needs!" Rhiannon stated, emphatically.

"She does raise a very good point." Mortianna said.

"Very well. We shall try that for a time. I'll go along with that, for now. You must alert me at once if you think his fever has returned." Thomas relented.

"I will." Rhiannon said.

"We will both remain vigilant." Mortianna said.

"Good. You must. We can't have that purulence returning." Thomas said as he picked up his bag and headed toward the doors.

"Of course, Thomas." Rhiannon nodded.

"I shall return in a couple of hours, unless you summon me." he said.

Mortianna led Thomas out of the bedchamber.

Rhiannon reached over and grabbed her cup, taking a sip of the wheatgrass tea. She put it back and then walked over to the bed, sitting beside her betrothed.

"I just gave you a win, George. No more cursed leeches for you. Not if I can help it. I think you'd be pleased I stood up for you. God knows someone had to! I won't let him keep sucking your blood dry, my sweet." she smiled as she held his hand and bent down to kiss his cheek. "Sleep if you must, but not for too much longer. When you're like this, it's as if a pall has shrouded the entire castle. You give it life." she sighed.

Mortianna returned for a moment to see if the lady needed anything. She assured Lady Rhiannon she would be coming by frequently to see to them both, then returned to her apothecary.

Moments later, Rhiannon was startled by a knock on the door. She left the bedside and went out to the den heading to the door. She dearly hoped it wasn't Thomas returning with the leeches, in an attempt to persuade her to allow them to be used again. She had no energy to argue, but she would stand firm if she must. She took a deep inhale. She was surprised to see Sir Guy standing before her when she opened the door.

"Good morrow, Lady Rhiannon. I just came by to update my cousin on a couple of things." Guy smiled.

"Come in, Sir Guy. He has not awakened, but I'll try just about anything. Perhaps he'll respond to you?" Rhiannon said as she beckoned for him to enter.

"What? How can that be?" Guy asked as the door closed behind him.

"I don't know, but I put my foot down about the leeches." Rhiannon sighed.

"Wait… the what?" Guy asked incredulously, as he began to turn pale. He looked downcast and sighed.

"Thomas used them for bloodletting. It was needed because of the contagion inside the wound, but it seemed a safer means to achieve it then the traditional method, since he lost much blood to begin with." Rhiannon explained.

"I see." Guy said. He fervently wished he couldn't picture it in his mind, however.

"Surely, he'll come around, now that the bloodletting has been halted?" Rhiannon said.

"I shouldn't bother him while he's sleeping." Guy suggested.

"Not under normal circumstances, no. But, this is different, Sir Guy. He needs to awaken now. It's been too long."

"How long has he been sleeping?"

"Since late last night. After you left, he met with Luke. Soon after that he fell asleep. He's been sleeping ever since." Rhiannon said.

"And, Thomas has seen to him?"

"Yes. You just missed him. He was here to change out the leeches. I stopped him from applying more. He inspected the wound. The wound is healing, the bandage is dry, and the fever is gone."

"That is strange, Milady."

"Indeed. Personally, I think he reached his limit with the bloodletting. He must wake up now, Sir Guy. You must try." she nodded.

"It feels strange to think of doing such a thing." Guy said.

"Of course, but desperate times call for desperate measures. If it works, it will be a good thing, and he will understand." Rhiannon countered with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"I suppose you make a good point. Very well." Guy reluctantly agreed.

She led him to the doors and opened them. She stood at the doorway observing with her arms folded as she leaned against the door frame.

Guy slowly walked to the bed, startled to see his cousin was still looking pale. He walked closer to the bed, then seated himself upon it.

"Cousin? It is Guy. You must wake now. It is time." Guy said, softly.

There was no response to his voice.

Guy reached over to gently shake him.

"Cousin? You've overslept. It's your wedding day! Time to rise and shine! Come!" Guy exclaimed, certain that would do it.

Rhiannon wiped a tear that fell from the corner of her eye.

Guy looked back to her, clearly puzzled.

"Good try, Sir Guy." she smiled, ruefully.

"I've got one other idea, Milady Rhiannon." Guy said.

He turned back to the Sheriff and began to shake him, a little less gently this time.

"Cousin! The castle is on fire! Wake up. Now!" Guy shouted.

Nothing.

He looked over to Lady Rhiannon, truly perplexed by what he was witnessing.

"That should have had him bolting out of the bed, and then smacking my face for lying about such a thing! I don't understand?"

"I don't either, Sir Guy. That was a good idea, though. I thought that would bring him around for sure." Rhiannon sighed.

"Cousin! George! Come now. You must wake up!" Guy shouted once more as he shook him.

When there was no response, Guy sighed. He looked downcast for a moment, shaking his head.

"I am… truly speechless." Guy muttered, as he arose from the bed. He walked back toward Lady Rhiannon.

"All I can do is keep trying." Rhiannon said.

"Yes. Keep at it. I shall leave you now, but I will return. If he has not awakened by then, I will think of another way to waken him." Guy said.

"What do you have in mind?"

"I'm not sure, but I will think more on it to come up with something. You're right. He needs to waken. He would hate this, too. I know he would." Guy said.

"I agree. He made comments last evening about that. Said he'd slept too long, and that it was a waste." Rhiannon sighed.

"That sounds just like him. After seeing him last night, I thought this was starting to move behind us."

"Agreed."

"I will return in an hour or so, Milady. Keep doing what you're doing. Don't lose hope." Guy said.

"Thank you, Sir Guy. I shall try."

As Guy opened the door, his wife stood before him with her hand raised, poised to knock on it. Isabelle stood beside her.

"Oh! Guy. I wasn't expecting to see you here." Meridwyn said.

"We were stopping by to see if you needed a break, dearest." Isabelle addressed her sister in law. She frowned when she caught Rhiannon's expression, and the dark circles under her eyes.

"Is… everything quite alright?" Meridwyn asked Guy. Then she looked to her friend. "Rhiannon? Is something amiss?"

"Yes. You could say that." Rhiannon replied, then looked downcast.

"Guy?" Meridwyn asked, narrowing her eyes and nodding toward Rhiannon.

"I stopped by to talk with my cousin. I was expecting him to be the same as he was last evening: almost… normal." Guy began.

"I cannot wake him, Meridwyn. So, when Sir Guy came by, I asked him to give it a go." Rhiannon shook her head.

"It… didn't work too well." Guy frowned.

"Oh my!" Isabelle gasped.

"That's rather unusual, isn't it? If you say he was doing well just last evening, shouldn't that have been a good sign?" Meridwyn asked.

Rhiannon motioned for them to come inside the den. The ladies nodded and entered inside.

"I would think so." Rhiannon said. She looked to her sister in law. "What say you, Isabelle? You appear to me to be as capable as Lady Margaret, and even Thomas. You seem to have a mind for this sort of thing. Can you think of a reason for him slipping back into a slumber? Because all I can come up with is excessive bloodletting from those cursed leeches." Rhiannon huffed, half folding her arms by grabbing on to her sling with her left hand.

"What?" Meridwyn asked.

"That was my thought, too, Sister. Unless, the fever has come back?" Isabelle asked.

"No. The fever is gone. Everything else is in order, too. Thomas saw him recently."

"Did he replace the leeches?" Isabelle asked.

"I'm sorry… what? What is this about leeches? What in the dev — " Meridwyn was interrupted.

"My thoughts exactly, my lady." Guy sneered.

"No. I put my foot down on that. If I had to throw myself across George's body to prevent that, I would have. I'm certain they have sucked the life force right out of him!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"Good for you, Rhi! I'm proud of you for standing up for him with conviction to Thomas. I don't know what in cursed hellfire Thomas did to him with… leeches, but that's not right. Not right at all!" Meridwyn said, firmly.

"I'll explain it to you sometime, Meridwyn. His reasoning for using them was wise." Isabelle said.

"Ladies, I was just leaving. I need to stop by the armoury to see about the shipment of steel from Spain that is set to arrive today. I will leave you to it." Guy said.

"Thank you again for trying, Sir Guy." Rhiannon said.

"I'll return in roughly an hour, and I shall try more forcefully then if he hasn't already wakened."

Rhiannon nodded.

Guy motioned for his wife to follow him outside the door.

"A word, Meridwyn." he whispered.

"Very well." Meridwyn nodded and followed him into the corridor.

"What is it, Guy?" Meridwyn whispered.

"Firstly, you look lovely, my wife. That colour suits you." he grinned as he took in her pumpkin coloured brushed velvet gown.

"Thank you." she smiled.

"Lady Rhiannon needs cheering, Meridwyn. It's almost like… she's losing hope, even though she's working hard to bring him around. Perhaps you could think of a way to encourage her?" Guy whispered.

"Poor thing. Understood. Yes, my sweet. I shall keep that in mind." Meridwyn nodded.

"Good. If her spirits are raised, perhaps I'll have better success in helping her to waken him when I return? Although, I'm hoping that won't be needed." Guy sighed.

"I agree. I'll do what I can to pull her out of that ghastly doom and gloomdom place she's prone to visiting."

"You have such a way with words sometimes, wife." Guy said as he moved in closer.

He inhaled the pleasing scent of lilies and heather from her hair, the result of a rinse she often applied to her fiery curls. He leaned in and softly kissed her cheek.

"You have other ways about you, too — that stir me." Guy whispered.

"That raspy voice of yours when you say such things to me is what stirs me." Meridwyn whispered.

"Save it for later, my lady." he winked. "I will leave you to it. See what you can do." Guy said with a knowing look.

"I will. I shall see you later, husband." Meridwyn nodded as she went back inside.

"Have you ladies any bright ideas on what I could possibly do to get my betrothed out of this cursed slumber he's lost in?" Rhiannon asked.

"Remember that time you were talking to me about… savouring and sucking on sweets, or, a piece of fruit? I think that's what you said… " Meridwyn began.

Rhiannon stared at her, completely aghast. She knew exactly what Meridwyn was referring to. How dare she jest at a time like this!

"I'd go with that. I mean… what have you got to lose?" Meridwyn shrugged.

Rhiannon looked at her in horror. Her jaw dropped and her eyes widened. Surely Meridwyn couldn't be serious?

"That's a good idea, Meridwyn. Something sweet, even the sweetness of fruit might actually bring him — " Isabelle started to say, but was interrupted.

"I will not! My God, Meridwyn! What the… hell are you on about? Maybe you should have a look at him? He looks like death, for God's sake! Then, come back and tell me if that were Sir Guy in a state like that, that you would deign to attempt such a thing!" Rhiannon huffed.

"Honestly, Sister. She has a good point. Something sweet might do the trick?" Isabelle said.

"That's not… exactly what I meant." Meridwyn said. She looked to Rhiannon. "Maybe it's a good thing she doesn't commonly use metaphors?" she shrugged.

"Wait, Meridwyn." Rhiannon admonished. She looked to Isabelle. "So, you think if I offer him something sweet it might bring him around? But, except for his breathing, he's completely lifeless in there. I don't think he could swallow something solid right now."

"No. He couldn't in a state like that, but… you could try rubbing honey on his gums." Isabelle smiled.

"Brilliant! Thank you, Sister! I shall try it." Rhiannon smiled, grateful for Isabelle's keen instincts.

An hour later, Rhiannon was wiping the Sheriff's lips with a damp cloth as she had attempted the honey trick a few moments prior. She looked up when there was a knock at the door. She set the cloth beside the basin on the bedside table and went to open the door.

Within moments, Lady Rhiannon and Guy were back in the bedchamber, preparing for the next attempt at wakening the Sheriff.

Guy spotted the basin of water on the bedside table and walked toward it.

"Is there an empty cup nearby, Milady?" Guy asked.

"Yes. I drank tea out of it not long ago." Rhiannon said.

She went to get it from the table beside the chair, near the window.

"It matters not what was in the cup." he said.

Rhiannon passed it to him and watched as he scooped some water out of the basin with the cup, filling it.

"What are you going to do with that? You're not going to have him drink that, I hope?" Rhiannon asked, aghast at the thought of it.

"No. I've an idea, and I think it might work." Guy said.

"Very well." Rhiannon sighed.

Guy sat on the bed beside his cousin and leaned in. He poised the cup several inches above the Sheriff's head.

"Oh, Cousin? It's time to wake up!" Guy called, as he poured the contents of the cup over the Sheriff's head.

"Sir Guy!" Rhiannon gasped.

The Sheriff's eyes flew open, and he began to sputter and cough as some water got into his nose and mouth.

"George!" Rhiannon exclaimed. She moved in swiftly, and took her place on the side of the bed opposite to where Guy was seated.

The Sheriff looked at her curiously, with his eyes narrowed, then he looked to his cousin. He pulled himself up a little, then his jaw set into a frown. Rhiannon was bewildered.

"Did you just toss water at me, Gis? What the bleeding hell are you doing?" he demanded, shaking the water from his hair.

"Trying to wake you, Cousin." Guy said.

"Ah. Right. I must have nodded off. Probably imbibed too much. So, where were we? I see we're having a party. Who's this impetuous one?" he asked as he nodded to Rhiannon. "Let me guess. A friend of Catherine, and Hecate?"

"Uh… Cousin? Catherine and Hecate have been dead for some time now." Guy said, startled that his cousin was speaking as if he were unaware of that fact — and that he didn't seem to recognize Lady Rhiannon.

"What in the hell are you on about?" the Sheriff demanded.

"George? Are you quite… yourself?" Rhiannon asked.

"Clearly not." Guy muttered as he stood from the bed and began to pace.

"Did you just dare to address me by my given name? I am your Sheriff, Missy! You would do well to remember who it is you're dealing with." he said, evenly.

"Excuse me?" Rhiannon asked, incredulously.

Guy stopped dead in his tracks, and turned to face his cousin, staring in utter disbelief.

"What the… who told you you were permitted to speak? You are clearly in this chamber to entertain me. Although, I'm not sure how you could with your arm in a state like that. What are you dressed in your Sunday gown for? I thought this was a party?"

"What… is happening?" Rhiannon said as she backed away from him then moved off the bed and stood. She looked to Gisborne. "Sir Guy?"

"Well, she seems awfully familiar with you, Gis? What about that red haired one you fancy? Or, is she still with that greasy haired bloke from Locksley's group of fools? Why is this one calling you "Sir Guy" — not "Sir Gisborne"?" he asked, pointedly, with a suspicious quirk of his brow.

Rhiannon just stared at him, stunned.

"The… uh… red haired one is… my wife." Guy muttered.

"Ah ha ha! Good one, Gis. You? Married? Now, that's a new one!" he laughed. Then he quickly straightened his expression. "What manner of parlour game is this? Is the sling on her arm part of it?" he asked with his eyes narrowed, suspiciously.

"Cousin. You best rest. You're not well." Guy said.

"I cannot! I've got a cursed oaf and his troublesome parade of minions to catch, in case you've forgotten. You and your men are supposed to be looking for them!" Nottingham bellowed as he began to get out of the bed.

"Cousin, that's probably not — "

"George! No. Stay where you are. You're not well!" Rhiannon exclaimed, concerned he would be unsteady on his feet.

"Didn't I tell you to shut it, Missy? You shall address me properly — when you're permitted to speak." he said, sternly.

The Sheriff moved toward the chair by the window, cursing under his breath that he shouldn't have imbibed, since he was faltering. He seated himself, then looked at his cousin and Rhiannon, curiously.

"I won't tell you again, Cousin. Round up those men of yours, and the lot of you go and bring Locksley and his cursed rabble to me. I don't care how long it takes, you will return when you've finally succeed!"

"He's dead, Cousin." Guy said simply.

"What? What has gotten into that non functioning brain of yours? He is not dead. He's like a pox on the entire shire! Stop arguing with me and go get the cursed hooded viper!"

Rhiannon stared, slowly shaking her head. Perhaps the honey wasn't such a good plan right before Guy was scheduled to visit? She didn't know what was worse: seeing her betrothed laying motionless until afternoon — or, getting a glimpse of the man he was long before she met him? When Robin of Locksley was still alive — apparently.

"Locksley is dead, Cousin. You killed him. Three years ago." Guy said, astonished at the dramatic turn of events.

"What is the meaning of you trying to trick me?" the Sheriff asked, with his eyes narrowed, suspiciously. He looked to Rhiannon. "You there! This is clearly not the time for a party. Come back in about an hour, whomever you are. Make sure you've changed into something a little more festive. The hell do you think this is? A funeral? Maybe you should head to the local infirmary." he huffed.

"I'm not going anywhere… Milord Sheriff." Rhiannon said, firmly.

"Bollocks! I have business to discuss with my Lieutenant, you mouthy little — "

"Cousin, there is no business to discuss. It's been taken care of." Guy said.

"What do you mean? You're telling me you and your drunken men had success… finally? Where is the cursed little insect, then? The dungeon, I hope. You better have brought the key players along, too!" Nottingham spat.

"Sir Guy is right. You really need to rest." Rhiannon said.

"One more word out of you and you shall be introduced to my tongue snippers!" he bellowed.

Rhiannon looked to the floor with her jaw gaping.

"Cousin!" Guy exclaimed.

"The hell kind of party is this supposed to be, anyway? Why did you wake me up for this load of absolute codswallop?" the Sheriff demanded of his cousin.

"It is taken care of, Cousin. You should rest. I shall see this maiden out. Alright?"

"Fine. Whatever!" Nottingham huffed.

Guy nodded to Rhiannon and she followed him outside of the bedchamber.

"Sir Guy… what in the devil was that about?" Rhiannon asked after he closed the doors.

"I have no idea. He seems to think he's back in time to when Hood and his men were running amuck. Sometimes I forget just how much he has changed since then, but now, it's like I'm right back there with him." Guy said, shaking his head.

"He doesn't know me. At all. Oh, this is disastrous, Sir Guy! Our wedding is in six days time. What if… he never comes back to us? What if… he stays like this? For always?"

"Lady Rhiannon, he cannot stay like this. He must come back! Think of it, the ramifications are huge! There's too many people in his life now that he either didn't know, or barely knew then. He didn't know you, or your brother and sister in law. He only knew of my wife, but didn't know her. He knew of Madam Oberon, but wasn't yet friends with her. He didn't know any of his newest recruits, Luke, or Ancel. He had a different Captain — who is now deceased. Duke Farnsworth was a Black Knight, but my cousin barely knew him, either. Robin Hood is dead, and almost all of his men are living God know's where, with one back in the Moorish Empire. The exception is your brother, who at that time was one of the wanted men; and one man who went mad — the criminal who captured you who is now dead. Too much has changed in three years, Milady Rhiannon. Half the people he knew then are dead, and some who are close to him today, he wouldn't know them if he tripped over them." Guy explained.

"I never… thought of all of that." Rhiannon frowned.

"Of course not. How would you? You weren't here then, Milady. Much of what I told you, you wouldn't have thought of. This needs to be fixed! I had better get Thomas." Guy said.

"What am I supposed to do? I'm a stranger to him right now."

"Stay out here."

"But, what if he comes out? He's liable to have me taken to the dungeon at this rate!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"Come outside into the corridor, then. You can come back in with us when Thomas arrives. His room is close. We will be back in moments." Guy said.

"Very well. I don't like this, Sir Guy. Not one bit." Rhiannon said, shaking her head.

"Agreed. This is the most unexpected change… I never would have imagined." Guy said as he opened the door and guided her outside of it.

"This is lunacy, Sir Guy! Who took over his body and left me with… that to work with?" Rhiannon asked once they were out in the corridor.

"Sadly, the old Sheriff of Nottingham. A night and day difference, really. And, I was just as bad, as well." Guy muttered.

"I need my George back. Go get Thomas, Sir Guy. If this keeps up, I might need to go and stay in my manor. Good thing there's an extra room for Robert and Isabelle. Don't know what you'll do about Meridwyn, however." she muttered, shaking her head.

"No one is going anywhere, Milady Rhiannon. This is ludicrous. Thomas must bring him back to us… before…" he let his words trail off as he looked downcast, pondering the situation.

"Before what, Sir Guy?"

"Before he mounts his horse and rides off toward Sherwood, looking for men who aren't there anymore." Guy said, shaking his head.

And then, he swiftly walked away from her in the direction of Thomas's chambers, leaving Rhiannon stunned.

She seated herself on the bench that was nearby. She closed her eyes, as she sighed and shook her head. Where is the man I recognize? The one who has told me more than once that he would die to protect me? The one who traveled for weeks to find me, save me, and bring me into his castle to care for me? How do I escape the ghost of you if this is whom you shall be now?

Suddenly, she was recalling some recent things he had said to her. The day she found two unexpected surprises: her weapons, and Lady Aelesia's journal. At the end of the day, before they dined, she tried to stop him from bringing the food to her. Part of the response he gave, she could hear him even now…

"Listen, I wasn't the nicest man to be around a few years ago, but, things changed and then I met you."

And then, last Monday, after the two of them met with Madam Oberon about the Tuesday meeting with Floria. As they walked to the private chambers after that, she stopped him and asked why he was taking in strays, referring to his two newest hires. Not her finest moment, she realized even then, but the last part of his response was a bit chilling.

"The Sheriff you've heard about before meeting me is sort of half dead. I say "half" because, make no mistake -- I look at things differently, my dear, but, I'm still him."

When she asked if that was a warning, and should she feel threatened, she could still hear his reply, see him shaking his head slowly…

"If you don't know by now that I would never harm you, well… there's no hope for us, my dear…Did you really just ask me if you should feel threatened by me?"

And yet, it was all mixing in her head with something else he just said to her moments ago — actually shouted:

"One more word out of you and you shall be introduced to my tongue snippers!"

"This cannot be happening." she whispered softly.

She heard the sound of their footsteps approaching and looked up. Guy and Thomas were walking toward her. She stood from the bench and greeted Thomas.

"Sir Gisborne has told me that Milord Sheriff is having some sort of… memory issue. He thinks he's living in a different time… from his past? Is that correct?" Thomas asked.

"Yes. From the looks of it, he only recognizes those he knew then. And, he's determined to find and capture Robin Hood." Rhiannon sighed.

"So, he doesn't recognize you?"

"No. He doesn't know me at all." Rhiannon said, shaking her head.

"What was it that finally woke him from his slumber?" Thomas asked.

"Just before Sir Guy arrived, I had rubbed honey on his gums. That was Isabelle's suggestion. She thought the sweetness might help bring him around." Rhiannon said.

"Then, I arrived, and I poured a small cup of water on his head while calling to him." Guy added.

"Neither sounds like anything that would… lend itself to this." Thomas sighed. "Well, that's a start. I'll know better in a moment. Let's go together and I'll try to make an assessment. We shall need to take it as it comes." Thomas said.

"Do you think it's wise I go in with you both? I'm a stranger to him." Rhiannon pointed out.

"You should be there. You will be his wife, Lady Rhiann — "

"Not at this rate! He'd laugh you right out of the bedchamber window if you mentioned he was set to wed anyone in six days time." Rhiannon huffed.

"For someone who wasn't even here three years ago, she does raise a very good point. He had his eye on Lady Marian then, and she is now deceased." Guy said.

"It doesn't matter. Somewhere inside of him is the man we know today. We must try to reach that one." Thomas advised.

"Very well. Prepare yourself, Thomas. He's a real handful just now." Rhiannon sighed as she opened the door for them.

Moments later, Thomas knocked on the doors of the bedchamber. Guy and Rhiannon stood directly behind him.

"Enter!" the Sheriff called out.

Thomas opened the doors and the three of them walked inside. Rhiannon stayed back, closer to the doors.

"Thomas? What in the devil are you doing here?" he asked with his eyebrow quirked, suspiciously.

"I was… summoned for another matter. Sir Gisborne saw me and… asked me to see to you." Thomas replied, carefully choosing his words.

"What on earth for? Why should I need a medi — "

"You were quite unsteady when you walked to the chair, Cousin." Guy pointed out.

"For the love of Zeus, Gis! I drank too many spirits. Doesn't everyone falter when they overindulge? This is insanity!"

"I'll say." Rhiannon murmured.

"Nevertheless, I am here now. It's been… awhile since your last check up." Thomas said.

"Good of you to come by, Thomas, but, I haven't time for this nonsense. Nottingham has been in a constant state of disorder since Hood arrived back from Jerusalem — fighting in a pointless war with Saracens. Now, he's trying to take over the shire!" a beat. "No, Thomas. I don't have the time for this today."

"Yet, you had time to say all of that." Thomas said, dryly. He walked closer and stood before the Sheriff. "What year is it?" he asked.

"What manner of foolery is this? It's eleven ninety four, Thomas! Did something happen to addle your — "

"Do you know what month this is? The day?"

"It's autumn. As for the day… I'm kept so busy, one day blends into the next." the Sheriff said. He looked to Guy next. "Isn't that right, Cousin?"

"Aye. It has been a rather… busy time." Guy muttered.

The Sheriff suddenly noticed Rhiannon standing back near the doors.

"You again! What the hell are you doing standing there? Can't you see this is a priv — "

"She's here to… assist Thomas, Cousin." Guy said.

Rhiannon sighed and looked downcast.

"What? I thought she was here for our private party earlier?"

"It matters not, Milord." Thomas said.

"Gis, tell the guard to summon Nic for me. I need him to take care of a few things — since you're not fit for it." he huffed.

"I… cannot do that, Cousin. Nic is… " Guy sighed and shook his head as his words trailed off.

"Nic is… what? Where is my Captain, Gis?" Nottingham demanded.

"He is… not here. He was… sent on a mission." Guy lied.

"Bollocks! He wasn't sent anywhere! What the hell? Has everyone gone mad around here?" he demanded.

Thomas walked closer to Gisborne and whispered to him, unobtrusively.

"Tell him you'll summon for the Captain." Thomas said.

"Very well. I'll tell the guard to summon him, Cousin." Guy said.

"Good." Nottingham sighed.

"I left something in the den, Milord. It must have fallen out of my bag. I will return in a moment." Thomas said.

"Whatever. Don't hurry back."

Thomas nodded then followed Guy to the doors. he nodded for Rhiannon to follow them. Once the doors to the bedchamber were closed, Thomas spoke.

"Is it possible your cousin hit his head, Sir Guy?" Thomas asked.

"I suppose. I don't know many details of what happened during the hunting session on Sunday." Guy said.

"What was he doing when he was struck with the arrow? Was he mounted on his horse?"

"I don't know the answer to that." Guy said.

"What are you thinking, Thomas?" Rhiannon asked.

"If he was seated atop his horse when the arrow hit him, it's possible he fell from the horse. If he fell from the horse, it's also possible he hit his head when he landed." Thomas explained.

"Oh, I see." Rhiannon sighed.

"Who would know the particulars of those moments, Sir Guy?" Thomas asked.

"His three top men who accompanied him: Mordrid, Luke, and Ancel." Guy said.

"Good. Instead of summoning for the late Captain, I suggest you summon one, or all of them."

"I can't right now, Thomas. All three of them are accompanying Duke Farnsworth on a search mission — for an escaped prisoner whom my cousin never heard of three years ago; but, before today, was at the top of his wanted list! Three years ago, he barely knew his current Captain, and he certainly didn't know two of the men who were with him in Newerche on Sunday. Luke is his most trusted Knight, but George wouldn't know him right now." Guy explained, shaking his head.

"Indeed. This is a dilemma." Thomas sighed. "But, I must know the particulars of what exactly happened to him. When they return, I need to meet with those men."

"Agreed." Guy said.

"Should we just be going along with him? Maybe… this needs to play out?" Rhiannon mused.

"No. Who he is today came from a series of events. Those events can't be repeated, for obvious reasons. If we did let it play out, he would not only be stuck in his past, but a past he has absolutely no control over. We cannot produce dead people for him, nor can we force him to accept the people normally closest to him who he won't recognize. It would be like having the old him back, but in a perpetual state of madness." Thomas said.

"God's nightgown!" Guy exclaimed in a whisper.

"That… doesn't sound good at all." Rhiannon sighed.

"No. It won't be. So, I need to figure out where in time he thinks he is. Find out what he thinks has happened recently, and then form a plan based on that." Thomas explained.

"Very well." Rhiannon said.

"It's the best plan I've heard." Guy agreed.

"Alright, lets go back in. Perhaps you should stay out of his line of vision, Lady Rhiannon. I suggest we open one door, and you stand directly behind the other one where he can't see you, but you will be able to listen."

"That's fine with me, Thomas. I don't know whom that man is in there, either, but… he's scaring me." Rhiannon said.

Thomas nodded and motioned for them to follow him to the doors. He opened one of them, then he and Guy went back inside. Rhiannon followed Thomas' instruction, standing behind the other door.

"Oh, good. You got rid of her. Not sure when my private chambers became accessible to everyone and their aunt, but that is unacceptable, Gis. Next time I fall asleep from drinking, you will make sure everyone leaves." the Sheriff said, sternly.

"Of course, Cousin." Guy nodded.

"She's rather comely, though. I'll give you that. A shame she's so bloody loquacious, however." he sighed.

Rhiannon shook her head and sighed. Was he really… this hostile only three short years ago?

"Milord, you said you've been kept rather busy of late. Can you tell me more about what's been going on?" Thomas asked.

"Sure. Look at my face." he said while pointing to his left cheek. "It was only recently the cursed thief sliced my cheek with his dagger!" Nottingham spat.

"Yet, you didn't summon me?"

"No. The Scribe stitched it. There wasn't time to wait upon your arrival." he said. He looked to his Cousin. "You were there, Gis. You were with me when it happened, and when the Scribe looked after the wound — when I told you I wanted Hood dead by the next full moon. Remember?"

"Yes, Cousin. I do recall." Guy said. He looked downcast and sighed.

"Roughly… how long ago did that event occur?" Thomas asked.

"I don't know. Perhaps a fortnight, or a little longer." he replied, then he looked to Guy. "Isn't that right, Gis?"

"Uhm… sure." Guy nodded.

"Fascinating." Thomas said.

Thomas looked around the room. Finally he spotted what he was looking for on a table. He went to it and picked up the object he needed and brought it to the Sheriff.

"Where did that come from? That is not mine! It shouldn't be here. Did that impertinent servant who was just here leave that in my chambers?" Nottingham demanded. "The hell do my chambers look like? A place to collect rubbish?"

Rhiannon slowly peeked around the door. She needed to see what he was referring to. It was a handheld mirror that Thomas brought to him. She sighed and resumed her position, her back against the door.

"Just take a look at your scar, Milord." Thomas said as he passed it to him.

"The hell for! I know what it looks like. Must I be reminded every minute?"

"Please. Look." Thomas said.

"Fine. Whatever! Not sure why you're still here, but if doing this will get you to leave me sooner, then I will concede to it." he said as he held the mirror before his face.

Thomas and Guy exchanged knowing glances with one another.

The Sheriff narrowed his eyes as he peered at his reflection. Then his eyes widened as he held it closer, his mouth slightly agape. There was a long pause, and then it came.

"What in the devil? I can barely see it now! What? Who did this? What manner of sorcery is this? This is absurd!" Nottingham exclaimed.

"Not absurd, Milord. It has followed the normal progression of healing." Thomas explained.

"Bollocks! Wounds don't heal and fade that fast, Thomas. You should know that better than anyone! Take this cursed mirror away!" he exclaimed as he passed it back to Thomas.

"Very well." Thomas said, as he took it from him.

"Get that thing out of my chambers! There's no place for that in here. There's already a larger mirror at the table where you took that from. I certainly don't need any more of them."

"It wasn't magick, Milord." Thomas added.

"Wrong. It must have been Mortianna." he said, adamantly. Next, he turned to face Guy. "Did you put her up to that, Gis? Not that I'm complaining since it looks a damn sight better, but — "

"It didn't happen because of a witch, a sorcerer, or a mage, Milord. Time alone did that." Thomas said.

"Roughly three weeks time did that? Ah ha ha! Tell me another one, Thomas. That is rather amusing, coming from you."

"Not three weeks, Milord. It was… three years, in fact."

"I'm rather young to be afflicted with senility, Thomas. Wouldn't you agree?" he asked, gruffly.

"Yes, but… do you remember the fire in the Village just three nights ago? The abandoned manor?" Thomas asked.

"Funny. I don't remember calling for that little event to take place. Did you orchestrate that one, Gis? Or, was it the greasy haired bloke associated with Locksley… yet again?"

Rhiannon's eyes widened, then she put her palm to her forehead, shook her head and sighed.

"No, Cousin. It was neither he, nor myself."

"Then, how did that happen?" Nottingham asked.

"Do you remember hunting in Newerche just three days ago?" Thomas pressed.

"Newerche? What the hell would I be doing there? Hunting, you say? I loathe hunting! I send people to do that for me. This is lunacy! Why are you asking me these utter redundant questions?"

"You were there. Later that night when you were returning, you saw the manor on fire and you rescued someone." Thomas said.

"Lady Marian?" he asked.

"The year is eleven ninety seven, Milord Sheriff."

"Preposterous! You're alluding to me having lost my senses!"

"Many people you once were preoccupied with are now… deceased." Thomas said.

"Alright. This must be a game. I'll play. Who is supposedly dead?" he asked pointedly, with his eyes narrowed.

"Robin of Locksley, Lady Marian — " Thomas was interrupted.

"The greasy haired bloke who was the fire starter in Hood's rabble, Hector, the Jailer, and… Catherine, and Hecate.." Guy added.

"I think I would know if my Jailer were dead. It was only recently I took care of the guard who let Locksley escape — the day he cut my face. What was his name?"

"Cyrus." Gisborne said with a shake of his head.

"Impossible! Three years is a significant length of time. One doesn't just miss three years of their life — all of a sudden!" Nottingham insisted. "You two are trying to trick me, for some unknown, cursed reason. I don't know who put you up to this, but I shall have their head for this!"

Thomas put the mirror back on the table. As he returned to his spot, he looked toward Gisborne who mouthed the words, "Now what?" to him. Thomas shook his head slowly.

"Who did this to me?" Nottingham demanded.

"Has your… head been hurting lately, Milord?" Thomas asked.

"If you're asking if there's anything wrong with me… a clue: no! Although, I'm starting to get a headache now, from you two pestering me with whatever cursed game this is! Stop deflecting from the truth of it, and keeping me from my duties!" Nottingham huffed, impatiently.

"I want you to rest, Milord. I think you might have hit your head on Sunday." Thomas advised.

"Rest? Who has time for that?"

That comment made Rhiannon chuckle. She savoured the moment, because she doubted he would have anything to say to make her smile again — until he came to his senses.

"Sir Gisborne and… your Captain will take care of whatever needs doing for today."

"Where is Nic, anyway? He should be here by now. Gis?"

"He should be here shortly, Cousin." Guy lied. He sighed. He didn't know what else he should say, but he hoped this would appease him for the time being.

"What are you two trying to hide from me?" he demanded.

"Nothing, Milord." Thomas said.

Guy shrugged. He didn't think now was the best time to tell him that Nic is dead. Or… that his betrothed was standing just behind one door of the bedchamber.

"Bollocks! You two are playing games with me. I know it. Rather unfortunate for you both, since… I am the master of games." the Sheriff hissed.

Rhiannon tilted her head to the doorway, her brow furrowed in concern. She hoped his ire wouldn't escalate.

"This is your doing, isn't it Gis? You think you can run the shire? Ha! Don't make me laugh, else my head shall explode." he growled.

"There is nothing amiss, Milord. Everything will be fine. I have something in my bag. I want you to take two drops. It will help the headache." Thomas said as he reached into his bag and extracted a vial, then he passed it to the Sheriff.

"What is this?" Nottingham asked.

"It will relieve your headache, Milord."

"Fine. After that I wish to be left alone — in peace!"

"I will be back, Milord Sheriff." Thomas said.

"There is no need for your — "

"I will be back. You shall see me again." Thomas said, firmly.

The Sheriff exhaled an audible sigh, and waved Thomas away.

"Where's Sir Guy?" Rhiannon whispered after Thomas exited the bedchamber.

"He's still there." Thomas replied. He moved away from the door, out of the Sheriff's line of sight.

"Alright, do you want to tell me what all of this deliberate distraction is all about, Cousin?" a beat. "I'd suggest you choose your words carefully." Nottingham said in a low growl.

Rhiannon swallowed as she listened in, she looked toward Thomas, who was across from her. He was shaking his head.

"No distraction, Cousin. I think Thomas is right. You might have hurt your head." Guy said.

"In Newerche. Right!" he scoffed.

"Just give it some time for that medicament to work, Cousin. In the meantime, I will — "

"You shall have Nic oversee things. Understood? Just for an hour. That's all I'm giving the cursed medicus — one hour." he spat.

"As you wish, Cousin." Guy nodded. He turned then took his leave.

Once he was outside the closed doors of the bedchamber he gestured for Rhiannon and Thomas to follow him to an area well away from it.

"Alright, what did you give him, Thomas?" Rhiannon asked in a hushed voice.

"Potion of dwale. That will induce sleep." Thomas said simply.

"So, you drugged him?" Rhiannon pressed.

"It will buy us some time."

"Isn't that what you gave Stephanus when you worked on his eye? And yet… Stephanus felt nothing!" Guy exclaimed in a whisper.

"Good memory, Sir Guy. Yes, I did administer it to Stephanus. But, Stephanus had a slightly larger dose to allow me to work on his eye. The dose I recommended to your cousin will allow him to sleep." Thomas explained.

"I see. What is your plan, Thomas? What do you think has gone so… dreadfully wrong?" Guy asked.

"We don't know for certain, of course, but all evidence is pointing to a head injury. I would wager money that he was seated atop his horse when the arrow struck him. The natural reaction would be to fall. He's hit his head. I'm certain of it. I still want to talk to the men who were with him, though."

"I will arrange that when they're due back. We need to come up with a plan, Thomas. I don't know if you recall what he was like three years ago, but it was like his breeches were on fire, he was constantly on the move. It won't be long before he struts straight out of these rooms, and heads down to the stables. On the way there, he'll be asking everyone where Nic is, and he won't recognize half of his staff. And then, he'll mount his horse and take it straight to Sherwood, looking for a dead bloke, and a bunch of others who haven't been seen for years!" Guy exclaimed urgently in a lowered voice.

"Fortunately, I missed that first hand experience. You're right. That will be the concern. He'll revert to how he was then. So, we've got to stop it." Thomas said.

"And, reverse it back to normal, I hope?" Rhiannon asked.

"That is the hope." Thomas said.

"How?" Guy asked.

"First, we need to get Lady Rhiannon out of these chambers. I think it's better for all concerned right now. I will be in my room, and Sir Guy, you're going to need to stay in this den. You're going to need to alert Mortianna the second he awakens, because she shall summon him and administer the next dose. He needs to go back to sleep. His head needs to heal. Too much activity will worsen it, and I'm hopeful after enough sleep has occurred he'll be back — in eleven ninety seven again. The way he… normally is now." Thomas explained.

"I hope you're right, and I agree about keeping him quiet right now. He's liable to rip those stitches open on his lower abdomen if he overdoes it." Rhiannon sighed.

"If I'm to be staying here — how am I to cover for him in his absence? Duke Farnsworth won't be back until the gloaming." Guy pointed out.

"There must be someone you and Milord Sheriff would trust to manage, until you can resume your duties?" Thomas asked.

Guy sighed.

"I'm shall need to have a word with Robert, Milady Rhiannon." Guy said.

"Must he know… everything?" Rhiannon asked.

"I shall carefully choose my words, but there's no choice. All of this is for George's own good."

"Very well." she sighed.

"The first thing you shall do before arranging that is alert Mortianna — once Milord falls asleep. She will need to summon him at your signal when he wakes. You shall need to remain hidden from him, however. But, you will stay when he returns from seeing her. He will fall asleep again." Thomas directed.

"Why me?" Guy asked.

"You know him best, you're family, and Lady Rhiannon won't be able to care for him as long as he doesn't recognize her. You can still conduct your business with whomever you put in charge. You meet with them at the door here… " Thomas said as he nodded behind him to the main door. "… the times while the Sheriff is sleeping. I shall be checking in frequently, as well."

"And, what am I to do, then?" Rhiannon asked.

"You need to be kept out of his sight. I will keep you apprised." Thomas said.

"Even when he's sleeping? If he wakes up normal, he'll wonder where I am." she pointed out.

"I think it's best for now, Milady."

"Alright. But where? All of the rooms are occupied now, I'm almost certain."

"You shall stay in my quarters, with my wife, Milady. I'm going to be here, dodging my cousin for who knows how long? This way you can both keep each other company." Guy said.

"Very well. I didn't really wish to involve her in any of this, but you make a good point." Rhiannon said.

"He shall be getting sleepy soon. You should speak with Mortianna about the plan, Sir Guy. Then, you can make the necessary arrangements. I shall remain here with Lady Rhiannon. Once he's asleep she can gather some of her things." Thomas said.

Guy nodded and headed for the door leading down to Mortianna's apothecary.

A short time later, the Sheriff had fallen into a slumber. He had managed to get himself back to the bed where he was reclined against the pillows. Rhiannon gathered some things, and looked upon him with great concern before leaving the bedchamber. She was fearful he wouldn't come back to her.

Guy escorted Rhiannon to his chambers, carrying her portmanteau for her.

Meridwyn was stunned as she took in the scene before her when he unexpectedly arrived with Rhiannon.

"Rhiannon? Why… is Guy carrying your portmanteau? Are you… leaving?" Meridwyn asked, nervously.

"She's relocating temporarily, my dear. I shall be… preoccupied, so you shall be keeping each other company. And, preferably out of sight of my cousin. That goes for the both of you." Guy warned with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"What? What in the devil are you talking about, Guy?" Meridwyn demanded.

"I haven't time to explain it, dearest. Forgive me. I shall leave that to Lady Rhiannon. It will become clear then. I need to find Robert before I dash back to my cousin's chambers." Guy said.

"Alright." Meridwyn nodded.

"Remember, dearest, both of you need to remain here as much as possible. Promise me."

"You cannot be serious?" Meridwyn asked incredulously.

"Promise me, my lady." he said more firmly.

"Very well. I promise. Look after yourself, Guy." she said.

Guy held her face in his hands and softly kissed her forehead, then swiftly left.

"Alright. Do you mind telling me what in the devil is going on?" Meridwyn asked her friend when the door was closed.

"Oh, Meridwyn!" Rhiannon exclaimed. "It's a cursed nightmare!"

"What is, honey?"

"He finally awakened — thinking it's eleven ninety four, and that Robin Hood is still alive." Rhiannon said.

"What?"

"Anyone not known to him then is not known to him now, including me. And, he only knows of you, not anything about you. He thinks his former Captain is alive, too! No one had the heart to try to get him off of that wagon." Rhiannon sighed.

"Oh, my God! How the hell did that happen?" Meridwyn asked in horror.

Guy arrived breathless to the armoury. He asked Borin to bring Robert to where he stood waiting at the door.

A few moments later, Robert stood before him, wondering what might have happened to cause him to make another appearance. He had already stopped by earlier to check on the steel that arrived.

"Is there something amiss, Sir Gisborne?" Robert asked.

"I need you to listen to me carefully. You need to take over from me. I shall be in my cousin's den for an indeterminate amount of time. Duke Farnsworth and the men will be arriving at the gloaming. The three who accompanied George on Sunday need to report to me at my cousin's door." Guy said.

"Is he worse?"

"In a way." Guy hinted.

"If he's on a downturn I should know, in case my sister needs me." Robert said.

"His… body is fine. That… doesn't seem to be the problem." Guy parried.

"Then, what is it?"

"He is in a… very odd state of mind. He's lost some of his memory — and sense of time, as it turns out." Guy sighed.

"Can Thomas fix it?"

"He's trying valiantly, Robert, and so must we do our part, too. Now, you can't run things being stuck down here. You'll need to get your duties here covered, then find the Scribe. Stay on the main floor, and should my cousin find himself wandering about, get out of his sight line. He doesn't know you. Got it?"

Robert swallowed.

"He doesn't know my sister right now, does he, Sir Gisborne?"

"Correct. He… doesn't know the Captain very well, either. He would recognize the Duke as one of his Black Knights, but that's it. It's best he stays out of my cousin's sight, too." Guy said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"I see. Well, that puts a different spin on things, doesn't it?" Robert frowned. "Surely, Rhiannon's not staying in his private chambers, given the turn of events?"

"No. She's been moved to my chambers. I left it to her to explain some of this to Meridwyn. Right now, it wouldn't do either of them any good to be in close proximity to each other. Each of them are unrecognizable to the other." Guy said, solemnly.

"Agreed. Very well. I'll speak to Stephanus and Eustace, then begin. As for my wife, I'll advise her to stay in our rooms." Robert said.

"Good. I need to get back to him. Thomas has a plan. I need to be there." Guy said, then he turned and took his leave.

Back in the Gisbornes' quarters, Meridwyn was helping Rhiannon get settled.

Rhiannon sat in a chair, with her free arm holding her ribs as she stared at her lap, her mind racing with thoughts of what she just witnessed, some of the vile things he said to her, and worry that the Sheriff she knew well was long gone.

"Did you remember to bring the opium Thomas gave you, honey? You look like you could use a drop of it." Meridwyn asked.

"Yes, I brought it. I'm fine, though. I don't want to cloud my mind just now." she said.

"If there is pain, the opium will relieve it, Rhiannon. You shall still need to look after yourself. You're recovering, too."

"I shall never be recovered if he doesn't come back to me, Meridwyn. The man I know is currently… very lost." Rhiannon sighed.

"It must be a shock for you to see him this way… how he once was. He wasn't the most likeable sort back then."

"I'll say! Except for his physical appearance, I don't know that man in our chambers, Meridwyn. It's like… seeing the darkest parts of him, the parts kept locked inside of him. It's like an evil thorny vine has overgrown and trapped the best parts of him deep inside. How do I thrash at those vines to let him out?" Rhiannon asked as a tear spilled from the corner of her eye onto her cheek. She wiped it away, angrily.

"First, we must wait, Rhiannon. We must see if Thomas' plan has the effect he's hoping for."

"This is pure madness!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"Indeed. So much has changed since he was chasing after Robin of Locksley. Including he and my husband. They made those changes before you entered into the picture. I'm not sure how all of that can be recreated?"

"That's exactly what Thomas said. That events happened that started in motion the changes he made. Those events cannot be repeated. It changes everything, Meridwyn. As your husband pointed out, half the people he knew then are dead, and many of those he associates with today were not known to him then. Not just in his personal life, but we're talking about some of his staff. Three of his top men — the Captain, Luke, and Ancel, he wouldn't know if he stays the way he is now. He must come back, Meridwyn! He simply must!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"Of course, honey. Try to put all of those fears out of your mind. All we can do is fervently hope that Thomas' endeavours will have a positive effect. And, my job will be to see that you're looked after in the meantime." Meridwyn smiled.

"I'm frightened, Meridwyn."

"I know, dearest." Meridwyn said softly, as she bent down and kissed the top of her head. "You're shivering, too."

"I get chilly when I'm fearful." Rhiannon said, softly.

"Then, I shall tend to the fire. And, you should consider taking a drop of that opium. It won't hurt you." Meridwyn said.

It was three hours later when Guy could hear stirrings of life coming from the bedchamber. He arose from his chair and softly went to the door that led down to Mortianna's apothecary. He quickly made his way down the stone circular steps.

"Mortianna?" Guy called out.

She was before him in moments.

"He's awake?" Mortianna asked.

"It sounds like it." Guy said. He reached into the pocket of his doublet and extracted a vial. "This is the potion of dwale Thomas asked me to give to you."

"You know, dwale won't last as long as… other varieties of potion." Mortianna hinted.

"Stick to the plan, Madam. Thomas is in charge." Guy said, firmly.

"Two drops of belladonna will render him unconscious for a longer period of time. It would give him an extra two to three hours more sleep than what an equal measure of dwale would do." Mortianna said with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"Wasn't it last week you were proposing using belladonna, or wolfsbane to poison arrowheads with?" Guy asked, aghast that she was suggesting using it on his cousin now.

"Yes. In larger doses it is toxic. Indeed… fatal. However, it can also be used in much smaller doses as a medicament. One drop would relax a person, similar to a goblet of spirits. Two drops, no more than three to induce sleep. In this case, I'd recommend just two drops for him." Mortianna explained.

"Fine. If you think it's best, I'll go with that, but we must inform Thomas of the change when he sees to him next."

"Of course, but I'll be putting the belladonna in Milord's batwing tea."

"Have you worked out what you're going to say to him, after you summon my cousin?"

"Yes. I'm going to act as if I have portents about Robin Hood." Mortianna said.

"I told him he was taken care of. He thinks Hood is in the dungeon." Guy said.

"Very well. I can work with that." she grinned.

"Good. I must return and hide myself. Give me a moment then you summon for him." Guy instructed.

"Of course, Sir Guy." Mortianna said.

Guy returned to the den of the Sheriff's private chambers. He looked around the room and couldn't see anywhere suitable where he could possibly hide. He muttered curses under his breath, as just then, the tiny bells began to peal on the wall. Mortianna was summoning for the Sheriff.

"For the love of Zeus! What now?" the Sheriff could be heard exclaiming from behind the doors of the bedchamber.

Guy went to the main door and stepped out of it. Out in the corridor, he positioned the door so it was held open by only a tiny crack, just enough for him to see. Within a couple of moments he saw his cousin enter into the den, and stumble toward the door that led down to Mortianna's apothecary.

"Mortianna?" the Sheriff called out to her.

He heard the rustling of her skirts brushing on the stone floor along with her footsteps. Within a moment or two, she was there to greet him.

"Come." Mortianna beckoned for him to join her as she waved her fingers. "I have portents for ye."

"Alright. Make it quick. I've already wasted too much time today. I'm told there's a particular person of interest in the dungeon. I need to see that for myself, Madam."

"Of course, Milord."

She lead him inside the apothecary and directed him to a small table. She had a steaming cup of batwing tea waiting for him.

"Oh, so we're doing the tea thing, instead of the bone dice runes and the… blood, I take it?" he asked.

"Indeed. Ye shall drink the batwing tea, then I shall gather portents from the sediment left behind."

"Wouldn't the runes be faster, Madam?"

"I'm rather… low on blood today."

"How unusual." he commented with a curious quirk of his brow.

"Yes. Isn't it?" Mortianna agreed, though it wasn't the blood she was referring to.

"Come. Drink. I've a cup for myself, as well." she said.

"Very well." he muttered. He went to the table, picked up the cup and began to drink from it.

She waited for him to finish, then he passed her the cup. He folded his arms and tapped his boot impatiently upon the floor, hoping it would encourage her to work faster than usual.

She turned the cup upside down, then quickly righted it and peered into it.

"Ah, yes. I see it." Mortianna said.

"What do you see?"

"I see your Lieutenant and his men, capturing and reining in the outlaw you've been after." Mortianna lied.

"So, he wasn't lying?"

"I don't know what he told you, but the hooded outlaw is safely tucked away in your dungeon, Milord."

"Astonishing, considering the paltry efforts thus far."

"Indeed."

"What of Lady Marian?" he asked.

Mortianna sighed. She wanted to believe that somehow, Sir Gisborne was actually involving her in japery, despite the vial of dwale potion he attempted to give her at the behest of Thomas to use on the Sheriff. She couldn't imagine how memory could be erased, and the sense of time could be altered without the use of potions, or spells, but here he stood before her, indeed… altered. She realized she would need to proceed cautiously. This was definitely not a jape.

"She is unaware he was brought here, Milord." Mortianna said.

"How convenient." he grinned.

Mortianna was trying to review in her mind some of the events that happened during that period of time, three years prior. Whatever she would tell him needed to sound authentic. She could embellish some things to suit the current situation, but it needed to be believable.

"But, her heart belongs to him, Milord. No matter his fate." she said.

"Whatever. She'll get over it." he said.

"Indeed, Milord."

"So, you haven't really told me anything new, Madam. Although, you did confirm that what my Lieutenant told me is true. What is the portents you summoned me for?" he asked pointedly.

She feigned peering closer into the cup, although she couldn't ignore what it was showing her.

"First, your future lies with another. Not with the lady you've been pursuing. Second, someone unexpected will be invaluable to you." Mortianna said.

The first part wasn't seen in the cup at this time, but Mortianna knew it to be true from seeing it a year ago when he sought her help in locating his lady. Lady Rhiannon was his future. The second part was no lie, and surprised even she, for the witch never would have guessed this person would be one whom could be trusted.

"You cannot be serious? Wasn't it recently you advised me I should give to her my seed, as you so eloquently phrased it — to put my issue on the throne?" Nottingham demanded. "Although, that would take a lot of planning since — Prince John is a friend of mine." he sighed.

"Aye. I did say that, but the portents reveal more at this time." Mortianna said.

"Interesting. So, which portents am I to work with, Madam? This one, or what you revealed the last time?"

"They are only a guide, Milord. It doesn't change free will. It is ultimately your choice to make. I can tell you that another lady altogether will be the one to bring you true contentment and peace, however. You just… don't know her yet." Mortianna said.

"I see… sort of. Alright. Tell me: When does this lady love of my life, or whatever, make an appearance?" he scoffed.

"In… two years time." Mortianna said without hesitation.

"Interesting." he mused. He realized the only reason he was contemplating what she said was due to him feeling a little tired. He couldn't imagine why he would be feeling that way again.

"Yes, Milord. Isn't it?" she nodded.

Guy was relieved when he saw his cousin returning from his visit with Mortianna. He decided to give it some time before he ventured back inside the den of his cousin's private chambers, since he couldn't predict how long it would take before the Sheriff would succumb to sleep once more. He observed his cousin return to the bedchamber and close the doors.

As Guy had his back against the door, nodding to various staff who passed by with inquisitive expressions upon their faces, he thought again about how far he and his cousin had come in the last three years. Then he thought about some of the things the Sheriff had said earlier in the afternoon, either in front of Lady Rhiannon, or when she was secretly listening in. The lady was getting a glimpse of a man she'd only heard about, but never witnessed first hand. He knew that had to be jarring for her, particularly when George threatened her with the tongue snippers, and the comments he made about the fire that Thomas had asked if he remembered. He became increasingly confident that Thomas' instinct to keep her out of the Sheriff's sight was truly the best decision if there was any hope of moving forward with the wedding — if the Sheriff snapped out of this bizarre state of mind he was in.

An hour later, there was a knock on the door at the Gisbornes' quarters.

Meridwyn was surprised to see Robert and Isabelle there.

"Do you two know what has happened?" Meridwyn asked.

"Yes. I've been covering for your husband, Lady Meridwyn. Isabelle was briefed just after Sir Gisborne informed me of the changes. However, she is — "

"Restless, to say the least." Isabelle said. "Robert asked me to stay in our rooms, and I did do, but I wanted to check in with you ladies."

"Of course. Do come in." Meridwyn smiled as she beckoned for them to come inside.

"I'm going to leave you ladies. I just saw Sir Gisborne. The Sheriff is asleep again. I need to await the arrival of Milord's top men and bring them to speak with Sir Gisborne. Thomas has questions for them about the hunting accident. He has a hunch about why there's a change in behaviour." Robert said.

"Let us hope he gets this sorted expediently. I'm worried she's losing hope for that." Meridwyn said, nodding behind her to indicate Lady Rhiannon.

"I'll return to escort Isabelle back, and I'll see to Rhiannon then." Robert said.

Meridwyn nodded, then Robert took his leave.

"Where is she?" Isabelle asked Meridwyn once the door was closed.

"She's sitting upon a chair in the bedchamber. Mortianna just brought her some wheatgrass tea. I've also asked for servants to send food for us. There shall be more than enough for you, I'm sure." Meridwyn smiled.

"That sounds grand. I've a feeling our husbands are going to be kept occupied for a time."

"Hopefully, not too long of a time."

"Indeed, Meridwyn. I can't quite believe it."

"I don't think any of us can believe it, Isabelle." Meridwyn sighed.

Rhiannon looked up from her book when she heard footsteps approaching into the bedchamber.

"Isabelle." Rhiannon smiled, as she set the book down and stood to greet her.

"Dearest… " Isabelle said softly, as they embraced.

"You must be careful not to be seen by my betrothed, Isabelle. I'm guessing my brother filled you in?" she said.

"Yes. Although, I don't think Sir Guy has had time to tell him too many details, just that he's lost some of his memory and sense of time. Therefore, there's many of us unknown to him… for the moment."

"Yes. That is… correct." Rhiannon sighed. "Now, I'm beginning to understand why my brother was on the run for so long, and even why he lied about… being dead."

"Is that… roughly the time frame he thinks he's living in?" Isabelle asked.

"He thinks Robin Hood is his greatest priority. Yes." Rhiannon said with a knowing quirk of her brow.

"Oh, no! What a horrible turn of events, Rhiannon!" Isabelle exclaimed.

"I'll say!" Meridwyn sighed.

"Would he know you, Meridwyn? Perhaps you could — "

"Talk some sense into him? Doubtful, Isabelle. Guy can't even get through to him. He would know me only from seeing me in the Village, but not my name or anything about me." Meridwyn said.

"Well, this cant go on. What does Thomas think, Rhiannon?" Isabelle asked.

"He is certain that George must have fallen from the horse when he was struck by the arrow, and hit his head. It's the only explanation he can come up with for the sudden change in his state of mind. The problem is figuring out how to reverse the strange effect on him." Rhiannon explained.

"Then we must be patient, dearest."

"Patient? We're scheduled to wed in six days time. In his current state of mind, he'd laugh so hard at the mere thought of that, he'd likely collapse and rip those cursed stitches. I swear, when I find out whom shot him with that bloody arrow, I'll throttle them!" Rhiannon huffed.

"Of course, Rhiannon, but… you mustn't lose hope." Isabelle tried to assuage her.

"He threatened me with his tongue snippers, Sister! He says I'm… comely, but a shame I'm loquacious. Does that sound like him? That's not the man I know!"

"He is in there, Rhi. He has seen you through so much since he found you in May. You nearly died a few times, honey. Each time, the rest of us could clearly see that he was dying a little bit each day, too — until you turned the corner. He loves you. You mustn't forget that." Meridwyn soothed.

"From what I saw, the version of him who finally awakened today doesn't even know what the word means. If this is how he truly was, how on earth did he change into the man I met a year ago?"

"He would have to answer that for you sometime once he comes around, but, I'm guessing Thomas summed that part up very well." Meridwyn said.

"I suppose." Rhiannon said, then she looked to her sister in law. "No wonder you've been so wary of him, Isabelle. My goodness!"

"I was, but I couldn't deny the changes I've seen firsthand between the day I met him until now. When Robin Hood lived, I didn't know your betrothed, never even saw him. I only heard the stories circulating."

"And, it's probably a good thing I didn't know him then, as well. I doubt I would've given him the time of day. I need my George back, ladies! There must be something I can do to elicit a memory?" Rhiannon insisted.

"Not yet, honey. We must leave that up to Thomas just now." Meridwyn cautioned.

"I swear I shall lose my mind, too!" Rhiannon huffed.

"Not if we can help it." Meridwyn smiled.

At nearly an hour past sunset, there was a light tapping on the door of the Sheriff's private chambers. Guy went to answer it and was surprised to see Duke Farnsworth there with the Sheriff's top men.

"Oh, good. There you are. Not sure how much time we will have, but… Luke, you know where the medicus is staying. I need you to go and bring him here. He has some questions for you three." Guy instructed.

Luke nodded and swiftly walked away to carry out the task.

"We would have been here sooner, but the Scribe needed to have a word with Luke — for some unknown reason?" Mordrid shrugged.

"That's a bit peculiar, but not as peculiar as what I need to share with you all." Guy muttered.

"I know you only asked for the top three of the Knights, but I'm getting the sense that something is wrong. I hope you don't mind my tagging along?" Duke Farnsworth said.

"No. You're right. You do need to know. But… " Guy sighed. It was difficult to get the words out, because the entire situation was so unbelievable to him.

"But… what, Sir Guy?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

Mordrid and Ancel looked at each other, then back to Gisborne with inquisitive expressions on their faces.

"You, Luke, and Ancel will need to stay out of my cousin's sight. Trust me. You don't want him to see you."

"What? And, what about me?" Mordrid asked.

"You won't be a problem, because you are known to him, Mordrid." Guy said.

"What? And, the rest of us… are not?" Duke Farnsworth asked, incredulously.

"If you weren't known to him three years ago, then he won't know you now." Guy added.

"Impossible! What is going on, Sir Guy?" the Captain exclaimed.

"Shh. Keep your voice lowered. The last thing we need is him waking again." Guy said as he stepped out of the private chambers and closed the door.

"I… don't understand?" the Captain said, shaking his head.

"Did the witch cast a spell on him?" Mordrid asked.

"No, she didn't. And, trust me, none of us are understanding this turn of events — not even she." Guy huffed.

"Can you just quickly brief us on what has happened, before Luke returns with the medicus, Sir Gisborne?" Ancel asked.

"He slept most of the day. When he finally awakened, his sense of time and memory were altered. He thinks Hood is his top priority, and that Nic is his current Captain. He might recognize you, Duke, because you were one of the Black Knights back then, but he wouldn't know anything about you. Like I said, anyone not known to him then is not known to him now." Guy quickly explained.

"Guess that explains why Robert insisted on staying downstairs." Ancel sighed.

"Yes." Guy nodded.

"God's nightgown! If he doesn't know Robert… that means he wouldn't know his lady, either!" Mordrid exclaimed.

Guy nodded.

"Dear God!" Duke Farnsworth exclaimed in a whisper.

"Right? This is a proper mess of a situation." Guy agreed.

Just then Luke appeared with Thomas Crumwell.

"Thomas briefed me about what has happened, Sir Guy. A most unfortunate change in Milord Sheriff." Luke said, shaking his head.

"He mustn't see you, Luke. Same with the Captain, and Ancel. None of you are known to him. He only knows Duke as one of his men, but, even then — barely." Guy said.

"Understood, Sir Guy." Luke nodded.

"Now, I understand you three were with him when he was struck by the arrow on Sunday afternoon." Thomas began.

"You think the problem is tied to that incident?" Ancel asked.

"I do. Can one of you tell me who found him?"

"Yes. Prince John found him, and he called for us straightway." Luke said.

"And, how was he found… precisely? Any detail is vital." Thomas said.

"He was laying on his back on the ground. He was out cold for a few minutes." Ancel said.

"Prince John said that's how he found him — on the ground. He hadn't been moved." Mordrid added.

"Just as I suspected." Thomas said to Gisborne.

"Indeed." Guy said.

"What are you thinking, Thomas? How is that connected to his behaviour today?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"I think he hit his head when he landed on the ground. He was struck, fell off his horse, then hit his head. And, that is what has lent itself to today's situation." Thomas explained.

"But… wouldn't we have noticed something then, Thomas? He came to, recognized all of us, and was asking sensible questions." Luke said.

"He certainly was!" Mordrid added.

"I've heard of this sort of thing happening before from other physicians I know. There can be a delayed reaction after a head injury… sometimes following sleep." Thomas said.

"How long do you expect him to… be in this state?" Ancel asked.

"I'm not certain. The brain is a complicated part of the body. Right now we're keeping him in an induced sleep to allow it to heal somewhat." Thomas said.

"So, in other words — you don't know." Mordrid sighed.

"I hate to say it, but, that is correct." Thomas nodded.

"Sir Guy? What would you have us do? There must be something we can do to help him remember?" Luke asked.

"You're to carry on doing what you've been doing. Continue with the search on the morrow, since I'm guessing potato bloke wasn't found?"

"Affirmative." Ancel sighed.

"Very well." Luke agreed.

"How are you explaining Nic's absence?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"Oh, boy… " Mordrid muttered, shaking his head.

"Very carefully. I keep telling him Nic is occupied every time he asks for him." Guy said with a knowing look.

"Nichol was a good friend to Milord Sheriff. Telling him now that Nic is deceased would truly agitate him. It's best we keep that fact hidden from him." Thomas advised.

"Agreed." Mordrid said.

"Indeed. I will not reveal that truth." Guy said. "So, the only ones who might be permitted near him are those he will recognize, right down to servants. Anyone else will only raise suspicion with him. At the best of times, him being suspicious is a rattling experience. A suspicious him from three years ago, though? Well, we wouldn't want that."

"I must concur." Mordrid sighed.

"How long has he been sleeping now, Sir Guy?" Thomas asked.

"Close to three hours." Guy said.

"I should probably look in on him." Thomas said.

"You sure you want to do that when he wakes? You know he's going to wonder why you're still here." Guy pointed out.

"The dwale gave him three hours. The last time he was given belladonna. Mortianna is right. I should have thought of it. Belladonna will keep him down longer; therefore, I'm not concerned he'll awaken anytime soon." Thomas explained.

"I see. In that case, I will wait in the den. I shall join you in a moment." Guy said.

Thomas nodded and stepped inside the chambers.

"Is there… anything we can do for you to make this easier for you, Sir Guy?" Luke asked.

"There's only thing I can think of." Guy hinted.

"What is that, Sir Guy?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"Can one of you lend me your helm, just for tonight? I might need to… play the part of his sentry later. I'm going to need to look the part." Guy gave a knowing look to them.

"You can have mine, Sir Gisborne." Luke said as he removed his and passed it to him.

"Naturally. There's only one problem with that, Luke. I'm certain I have a bigger head than you." Guy said.

Mordrid began to chuckle.

"I'm sure mine will work. Keep it as long as you wish. I've an extra one in my rooms." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Thank you, Duke." Guy nodded as he took the helm from him.

"You sure that's all you need? What about the cloak, Sir Gisborne?" Ancel asked.

"I think it'll be fine. If I need to go that far to appease him, I'm hopeful the moment will be very brief." Guy said.

"What else can we do to help?" Luke asked.

"You men just need to carry on as normal. You're the only ones who know of this besides family, Mortianna, and Thomas, of course. We're going to keep it that way as long as we can." Guy said.

"Understood." Luke said.

"I don't like this, but I'll abide by your wishes." Duke Farnsworth said.

Mordrid and Ancel nodded in agreement.

"Good. You shall be kept apprised by either myself, or Robert. Now, go. Act as you normally would, but stay out of his way." Guy paused a moment then looked to Mordrid. "Even you, Mordrid. The more I think on it, it's the best plan. True, he knew you fairly well in ninety four, but you were almost always working alongside the Captain. If he somehow starts wandering and runs into you, I can assure you — you will be bombarded with plenty of "Where's Nic?" questions. Not to mention the problem with particulars, like… you may forget and suddenly mention Demetria, or your baby to him. You weren't married back then. Do you see the numerous problems that can ensue?" Guy pointed out with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Yes, Sir Guy. You're absolutely right. I'll steer clear of him, too." Mordrid said.

"We shall leave you now. We will be heading back out in the morning. Try and rest if you can." Duke Farnsworth said.

"We will do our best to find the escaped prisoner, Sir Gisborne." Ancel added.

"Anything you need, Sir Guy, you can count on us." Luke said.

"Indeed." Mordrid agreed.

"Cheers, men." Guy nodded to them. He stepped inside the chambers, and the men took their leave.

Soon after he seated himself on a chair in the den, Thomas came out of the bedchamber, then softly closed the doors behind him.

"Still asleep?" Guy asked.

"Yes. He's sleeping soundly." Thomas nodded.

"And… did you notice anything else?"

"His wound is satisfactory, and the bandage is clean and dry. His body temperature remains normal. I felt a slight, small bump on the back of his head. I pried open his eyelids — "

"You did… what?" Guy asked, pointedly.

"I held a candle near each eye to observe the response of his pupils. They reacted normally." Thomas explained.

"Is that a good sign, at least?"

"Yes. It is reassuring." Thomas said.

"For now. Until he wakes and we must repeat the same process. So, I suppose you'll want me to alert Mortianna again as soon as he begins to stir." Guy said with a quirk of his brow.

"She will be less conspicuous to him than myself. He'd wonder why I was still present."

"I think he will still be suspicious." Guy said.

"Why is that?" Thomas asked.

"It's not usual for Mortianna to meet with him several times in a day, especially not three years ago. He will remember seeing her earlier, and will wonder why she's summoning again. He'll figure it out straightway that she is drugging him, regardless of the bump on his head. He has never been obtuse, Thomas. He is as sharp as an arrowhead. Always has been." Guy said.

"Hmm. You're right. We must think of something." Thomas sighed.

"I would offer to administer it the next time, but it wasn't usual for me to spend this much time in his chambers in ninety four. He will be acutely suspicious, and will be incessantly asking for Nic. I know him, Thomas."

"I'm guessing it wouldn't be usual for Mordrid to come by his chambers, either." Thomas said. "Didn't you mention he knew Mordrid well?"

"Even though he knew him, it's best Mordrid stays away, too. Mordrid worked closely with Nic back then. My cousin will inundate him with questions about the former Captain."

"Understood. Hmm. Then we need a servant."

"I'm not involving one of the servants in this charade, Thomas. A panic will ensue if you insist on that."

"Of course. I agree. He thinks Lady Rhiannon is a servant, however."

"I thought the goal was to keep them apart for now?" Guy asked.

"It is, but… there's not many choices, besides her. Except for…Lady Isabelle." Thomas said.

"I'm not sure which of them would be a worse choice for the next round of potion administration." Guy huffed.

"I imagine it comes down to whom could handle it the best?"

"Both of them could, but only one knows him best. At least… the him that she knows, anyway." a beat. "I swear, the longer this goes on the more ludicrous this sounds, even as I speak of it." Guy spat.

"It is settled, then. We must have Lady Rhiannon do it." Thomas said.

"It's probably best. It was only a month ago Isabelle was his prisoner. He'd likely scare her half to death." a beat. "Very well."

"I'll stay here and see Mortianna. She'll need to give me the vial of belladonna. You go and fetch Lady Rhiannon. When she arrives, I'll instruct her on how to give it." Thomas said.

"I shall return shortly with Lady Rhiannon." Guy nodded. Then he took his leave.

A short time later when he stepped inside his chambers he was a bit surprised to see that his wife was entertaining the entire Wordsworth family.

"Guy! There you are." Meridwyn smiled as she arose from her chair and walked over to greet him.

"Please, tell me he is awake and acting normally now." Rhiannon said.

"He is asleep. Thomas is in there now. What's going on here?" Guy asked.

"I'm just here to escort Isabelle back to our rooms." Robert said.

"She came by to visit a couple of hours ago, Guy." Meridwyn explained.

"I see." Guy nodded.

"So, there's no change, I take it?" Robert asked.

"No change in him, but a change in plans." Guy hinted.

"What do you mean?" Rhiannon asked.

"We need you in there, Lady Rhiannon. Originally, we were going to have Mortianna summon him again and give the next dose of belladonna — "

"I thought Thomas gave him potion of dwale?" Rhiannon pointed out.

"He did. Then Mortianna reminded us that two drops of belladonna would keep him asleep longer than dwale can." Guy explained.

"I see." she sighed.

"Is it safe to be consistently giving him… all of these drugs?" Isabelle asked.

"Thomas believes it is. Anything to keep him quiet and resting will help him heal. They've been careful with the dosing of them." Guy said.

"Alright. So, what am I needed for?" Rhiannon asked curiously.

"Sounds like you're up next to give him the next dose, Sis." Robert said.

"Indeed." Guy nodded.

"What? He'll never let me get close enough to him to offer him a drink of… whatever. You saw how he was with me earlier, Sir Guy!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"He thinks you're pretty, Lady Rhiannon. If you follow along, and don't speak unless he asks something of you, it can work." Guy said.

"Well, that's a start — since he was planning to marry her on Tuesday. I guess that's comforting he still thinks she's… pretty." Meridwyn remarked with an eye roll.

"Why can't Mortianna administer it again? Or, Thomas?" Rhiannon asked.

"It can't be Thomas. He'll wonder why Thomas is still here. As for Mortianna, it was highly unusual for him to see her more than once a day — if that, three years ago." Guy explained.

"Then why not you? Since you're in there, anyway?" Meridwyn asked.

"Again, it was seldom that I was in his chambers back then. None of you knew him then. You don't know what his normal routines were. I was there. The only two I could come up with are Lady Rhiannon, or Lady Isabelle. He knows neither of you right now. But, I'm not insensitive to the fact that Isabelle was his prisoner a month ago." Guy said.

"Thank you for that, Sir Guy." Isabelle said.

"And, you know him best, Lady Rhiannon. He tells me all of the time how astonishingly strong you are. You had a taste of how he… used to be, earlier today. Can you muster some of that fortitude within you to do this?" Guy asked.

"I don't like this, Guy. Not one bit." Meridwyn frowned.

"If you and Thomas think it's best, I will do it. I'll do it for George." Rhiannon nodded.

"Rhiannon, no! You cannot go alone. I should come and wait outside the door, at least." Meridwyn suggested.

"She won't be — " Guy was interrupted.

"No, Meridwyn. You mustn't. You must stay here and guard something with your life while I do this." Rhiannon said.

They all looked at her, curiously. Then Rhiannon took off her ring and passed it to Meridwyn.

"This is my betrothal ring he gave to me, as you know. It belonged to his mother. If he sees this on my finger, there will be hellfire raining down, I promise you! It's an absolute miracle he didn't notice this earlier. I don't wish to stuff it in my bodice, or the pocket in my skirt. I cannot lose this precious ring. It is dear to me, and very dear to him." Rhiannon said.

"Good thinking, Milady." Guy smiled.

"Indeed. Thank God for the years of private tutoring Father afforded us. He'd be proud of you for having a clear mind during such a crisis, Rhiannon." Robert said.

"You'll be close by, husband?" Meridwyn asked as she took the ring from Rhiannon.

"I shall either be in the den if he stays in his bedchamber, or right outside the door, with it open a crack if they're in the den. If I hear any sign of trouble, I'll get her to safety. I promise." Guy said.

"I will hold you to that." Robert said.

"It will be fine, Meridwyn. Put that ring in a safe place and guard it." Rhiannon said.

"Very well, but, I still don't like this." Meridwyn sighed. "How long do you think it will be before he wakes?" she asked her husband.

"I can't predict that, my dear. I'm not even sure Thomas could." Guy said.

"So, Rhiannon is just supposed to sit there, waiting… until heaven knows how long before he wakes?" Meridwyn asked.

"Yes. It's not like I could run down here, get Lady Rhiannon, then both of us run back and make it inside before he's already emerged from the bedchamber. We need to be there, be patient, and wait. Trust me, I've been doing this for several hours now. It's not exactly productive, for me in particular, but it's all I can do, and so far, it's working." Guy explained.

"Perhaps I should stay here with Meridwyn, Robert. At least until Rhiannon returns?" Isabelle said.

Robert looked to Guy and Meridwyn.

"I have no problem with that, of course." Guy said.

"I think I would like that. It will help to keep my mind off of things." Meridwyn sighed.

"Then, it is settled. And, we should make haste before he wakes unexpectedly." Rhiannon said.

"Indeed." Guy said.

"I'll return to the main floor, for now. I'm available whenever you need me." Robert said, addressing Gisborne.

"Good." Guy said. He nodded to Meridwyn then escorted Rhiannon out.

Thomas was in the den to greet them when they arrived.

"Has he awakened?" Guy asked.

"Not as yet. The belladonna seems to have worked well." Thomas said.

"What am I to put that in? Did he drink brandy back then?" Rhiannon asked Guy.

"He did, but not as often as he has since the Benedictine Monks gifted him a special blend when… Locksley was dealt with. Back then, it was either wine, or brandy. It had to be a good wine, though." Guy said.

"So, his brandy would work, then?" she asked.

"Yes." Guy nodded.

"How are we to get him to take the wine and cloves mixture, Thomas? He needs that, too — doesn't he?" she asked.

"I'd suggest offering a measure of that once he's about to fall asleep. That way he won't protest. We'd have to catch him at the right time, however. If he's too sleepy, it would be better not to force it. We don't want him accidentally inhaling it, which is a concern if he's too sleepy. That would just present new problems, and we've enough of those going on." Thomas warned with a sigh.

"Understood. Very well. I guess I'm ready, then. All we must do is wait." Rhiannon said as she took a seat on the sofa.

"We may be waiting awhile, Milady. Try and rest if you can. If you doze off, I'll wake you once I hear signs of life coming from inside the bedchamber." Guy said.

"Very well. I will try. Perhaps I should have brought my book back?"

"No. It's better you didn't, unless it was a book he would read?" Thomas asked.

"No. Trust me. He would have no interest in that. Not then, and probably not now." Guy said.

"You're right." Rhiannon sighed. "It's not something that would interest him since I've known him." a beat. "What about his wound, Thomas? Is that satisfactory?"

"Yes, Lady Rhiannon. Everything is in order and it's healing as it should. The dressing is clean and dry."

"How… has he not noticed it? Surely he is aware there is a bandage there? Surely… he feels the wound somehow?" she asked, curiously.

"That's a good question. I thought he would have noticed it, too. Even reaching for something, he should feel it. I had to cut through muscle, and get into the cavity there to repair the — "

"Alright, Thomas. I need to stop you right there." Guy sighed as he seated himself on a chair. His face turned white and he began to take deep breaths to stay the nausea.

"Forgive me. Sometimes I forget that the particulars are of no interest to most people, and it's actually unsettling to the majority of people." Thomas sighed.

"Indeed." Guy nodded, still focused on his breathing.

"No more than two drops of belladonna, Lady Rhiannon. That is the limit he can take in one dose. I'd suggest putting it in a small measure of brandy so we're certain he'll get the full dose. If he wants more brandy after that, you may offer it." Thomas advised.

"Two drops. Got it." she said.

"I'll leave you to it and I'll check back in every hour until he's asleep the next time." Thomas said.

He took his leave of them, and together they waited.

The Sheriff's top men were in the Dining Hall, just finishing dining, and enjoying some ale together before retiring for the night. They were quiet through most of their meal, and now that they were imbibing, with some time to process what they were told, they began to confer amongst themselves.

"What are we supposed to do with this, Duke? It's hard to believe that he's reverted back to… the old him." Mordrid asked.

"You got me, Mordrid. This is a new one, even for me. I thought some of the matters we were handling in the last year were unusual, but this one? This wins, in my opinion." Duke Farnsworth said as he took a generous swig of ale.

"What… was he like back then?" Luke asked.

"He was strict, highly ambitious, motivated — " Duke Farnsworth was interrupted.

"A bit volatile at times, hot tempered, and… not as pleasant as he is today." Mordrid said.

"Oh." Luke frowned.

"When you think about it, though, he didn't have much going on to fulfill him back then. The only thing motivating him was a desire to rid the shire of Robin of Locksley." the Captain said.

"And, a lady he was interested in who never gave him the time of day." Mordrid added.

"Whom was that?" Luke asked.

"You never heard of Lady Marian, Luke? Even I heard about her being Hood's lady love while I was in Portsmouth." Ancel added.

"Not… the Lady Marian whom knocked out Alfred, and literally took a stab at Lady Rhiannon? Is that the same Marian, perchance?" Luke asked, looking to the Captain.

"That is correct, lad." Duke Farnsworth said.

"I see. That was the first I'd heard of her, truthfully. I guess… I had my own matters to attend to at the time." Luke said as he took a sip of ale from his mug.

"Like what, mate?" Mordrid asked.

"Just… family matters." Luke remarked, evasively.

"Involving your wife?" the Captain asked.

"No, Captain. I've never been married. The family matter involved my mother and two younger siblings." Luke said.

"I see." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

"What if… the way he is now is how he shall stay?" Luke asked, cleverly diverting attention away from himself.

"Then we have a problem." Mordrid sighed.

"Indeed. A big problem." Duke Farnsworth nodded.

Luke thought about the conversation he had with the Sheriff the night before. He said some kind things to him then. Luke couldn't imagine him being anything different than the Sheriff he had known. A bit gruff on occasion, but focused, astute, and generally not a difficult sort.

"You alright, Luke?" Mordrid asked.

"You've been quiet for a few moments." Ancel added.

"Yes. I'm just puzzled. It's hard for me to imagine him being any different than who he has shown me to be." Luke said.

"It's been nice to see the change in him." Duke Farnsworth added.

"He's been nothing but kind to me from day one." Luke said, softly.

"That's… hard to imagine, too." Mordrid said.

"What?" Luke asked.

"Well, your choice of descriptor for him." Mordrid said.

"All I know is who he has shown me." Luke shrugged.

"He has taken a shine to you, Luke." Duke Farnsworth said.

"You think?" Mordrid scoffed.

"There must be something more we can do? He's set to wed his lady on Tuesday. When you think of it, we're out searching for a man he's never heard of. At least, from what I gather, the man wasn't known to him until the day he hired me… oddly." Luke said.

"I've been going over this in my mind, and I don't know what any of us can do to bring him… back." Duke Farnsworth sighed. He took a good swallow of ale for good measure.

"Perhaps the only hope for that is his lady?" Mordrid mused.

"Unless he scares her away." Ancel said.

"I don't think… he would." Luke murmured.

"Pardon, Luke?" the Captain asked.

"He wouldn't do that. He wouldn't scare her, and he certainly wouldn't harm her." Luke said, confidently.

"No one knows what goes on behind closed doors." Mordrid pointed out.

"We would see it. If he was cruel to her we would see signs with her. Her face is aglow when she speaks of him. She is happy. He would never harm her, I'm certain of it." Luke pointed out.

"That is true of the Sheriff she knows. I'd agree with that. But, Mordrid and I saw how he was in ninety four. I never realized it until now, but… he has changed. A lot." Duke Farnsworth said.

"I concur." Mordrid nodded.

"There must be some way that we can help him to remember some things?" Luke repeated.

"All we can do is honour him by carrying out the tasks he assigned to us before… this total cock up happened, Luke. Let's just focus on that. I suggest you men drink up, then we should retire. We have an escaped prisoner to locate on the morrow." Duke Farnsworth said.

"It will be difficult to keep this a secret from Drake and Adam." Luke muttered as he took another swig of his ale.

"The trouble with you is you're too honest, Luke. Don't give it another thought. We must do this. We're doing it for Sir Gisborne — " Mordrid was interrupted.

"And, out of respect for His Lordship. The Sheriff we're familiar with would hate for too many people to know that he was behaving how Sir Guy says he is." Duke Farnsworth said.

The men nodded in agreement.

Next they started discussing more lighthearted topics. Luke took a sip of his ale, pondering further what Sir Guy had told them. He had trouble picturing his employer acting differently toward him than what he had known. The stories he'd been told about what the Sheriff was like when Robin Hood was known throughout the land were hard for Luke to believe, especially when men like Alfred spoke of the two former Knights and their fates —and one of them was only recently.

"Luke, you never did tell us. What did the Scribe need to see you for?" Mordrid asked, curiously.

"I'd be interested to know, too. He doesn't usually meet with any of the men." Duke Farnsworth said with a curious quirk of his brow.

"Oh, right. I almost forgot about that. I need to see him again on my way to my rooms. He… has something for me." Luke smiled.

"A gift? From the Scribe?" Ancel asked.

"Ha! That's a new one!" Mordrid chuckled.

"I suppose it is a… type of gift. But, it's not from the Scribe." Luke said as he took another swig of his ale.

"Don't tell me a lady had something sent to you here? Deadly!" Mordrid teased.

"It's not from a lady. It's from… that nice fellow from Spain. The one who delivers the steel to the armoury every month." Luke smiled.

"Leave it to you to make friends with the steel delivery bloke! What's his name, again? It's a funny name. Deegus, or some such — " Mordrid was interrupted.

"It's Diego. Diego Florez. He's quite a friendly, talkative sort." Luke said.

"What was it he brought you? And, why couldn't you just grab it when the Scribe flagged you down the first time?" Ancel asked.

"It's a plant. Imagine me showing up to speak to Sir Gisborne at a time like that — holding a plant." Luke sighed.

"What? The hell are you supposed to do with a plant?" Mordrid asked.

"You'd be surprised." Luke smirked.

Next they discussed their plans for the search on the following day before retiring for the night.

The slumber lasted close to six hours before Guy heard rustling noises coming from the bedchamber. He muttered curses under his breath as he arose from his seat and softly walked to the sofa. Lady Rhiannon had recently dozed off. Guy gently shook her.

"Lady Rhiannon?" he whispered. He shook her again. "Wake up, Milady. It is time!"

She jolted awake and straightened up.

"What shall we do?" Rhiannon asked.

"Come. We'll wait outside the door. I think he's out of bed now. I expect he'll be wanting to speak to his sentry about summoning a servant. That's what I'd expect at this time of day." Guy said.

Rhiannon nodded and followed him toward the door. She watched as Guy grabbed a helm that had been sitting on a table beside the chair he was seated in.

"What are you doing with that?" Rhiannon whispered.

"That's where the sentry part comes in." Guy winked. "Grab the decanter of brandy and a goblet. You'll be needing to bring those back in. Are you able to manage that with your arm like that?"

"I can. I'll hold the goblet with my right hand."

"Good. Let us hope he doesn't have chores for you." he said as he led her out of the door.

She nodded, took the requested items and followed him.

They waited there about ten minutes before the door started to open. Guy quickly put the helm on, tucking his hair up inside of it. Rhiannon moved off to the side of him, slipping into an alcove so she wouldn't be spotted by the Sheriff.

"Guard? Summon a servant for me." Nottingham said.

"As you wish, Milord Sheriff." Guy replied in a disguised voice. He nodded but kept his head low.

Nottingham shook his head, then closed the door once more.

Rhiannon came out of hiding and whispered to Guy.

"How long should I wait?" she asked.

"Let's give it a few minutes, then you proceed." Guy said.

Rhiannon nodded. Then she extracted the vial of belladonna from her gown pocket. She opened it and carefully poured two drops into the goblet. She knew it was better to do it now than to attempt to add it in front of her betrothed. Even in the altered state of mind he was in, she knew he would notice her doing so. She passed the vial to Guy, explaining she was fearful it might fall out of her pocket while inside the chambers, adding that if her betrothed saw it, he'd be quite angered. Guy agreed, and put the vial in a pocket of his doublet.

Five minutes later Guy knocked on the door.

The Sheriff responded in moments.

"The servant you requested is here, Milord." Guy said.

"Right. Send her in." he said.

Rhiannon suddenly appeared as she moved from behind Guy. She looked up at him briefly then looked downcast.

"You again. Why does that not surprise me?"

She stood still and didn't speak a word.

"Fine. Enter." he said.

She slowly moved passed him then he closed the door.

"What's that you have there?" he asked.

"It is brandy, Milord. I'm… told you like it." she said softly, keeping her head down.

"Fascinating. Who told you that?"

"It was… " she tried to recall the two women he named soon after he awakened. What were their names? And then, one of them came to her. "It was Hecate." she said.

"Nosy little witch. You do know she's a witch, right?" Nottingham sighed.

"Uh… no. I didn't, Milord." she said, shaking her head.

"She tends to spend more than her fair share of time with my counsel, Mortianna. But… you didn't hear that from me."

"Understood, Milord. Is that a yes on the brandy?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes. I would've poured my own libation, but, oddly, there was nothing out here for me to drink. Isn't that strange?" Nottingham asked with a quirk of his brow.

"I suppose, Milord. If it's usually there, it's peculiar it was missing." Rhiannon nodded.

She set the goblet on a table and began to pour a small measure into the goblet. She swirled it unobtrusively, away from his line of vision. Then she took the goblet and passed it to him.

She remembered the first time he passed her a goblet of brandy. Right in these very chambers, a year ago. There was an energy between them as their fingers touched briefly. She felt none of that this time. She sighed.

The Sheriff took the goblet and took a sip from it.

"So, I guessed accurately earlier today. You are a friend to Hecate." he said.

"No, Milord. We're not friends. She… trained me."

"I see. Right. Well, I shall need a change of bed linens… Miss. For some reason, I've been sleeping a lot lately. Not that I need to justify it to you."

"Very well, Milord. You relax and sit with your brandy. I shall return with fresh linens." she nodded.

"Perhaps you should get another to assist? Can you manage that with your arm impaired like that?" he asked.

"It might take longer than normal, but I can manage it, Milord." Rhiannon nodded.

"That shall be impressive. Don't expect a prize, though." he grinned deviously, as he held the goblet up toward her.

"My expectations are quite low, Milord." she sighed. Then she turned and exited the chambers.

"Well? Did he fall asleep already?" Guy whispered.

"Not yet. He wants me to change the bed linens. Where am I to get those?" she whispered.

"God's nightgown! Why must he be so difficult?" Guy huffed.

"Where will I obtain fresh bed linens? Any idea?" she repeated.

"How on earth will you manage that, Milady?" Guy asked, nodding to her right arm in the sling. "Perhaps I should assist?"

"I'll figure it out, Sir Guy. Where are bed linens kept around here?"

Just then, a servant was approaching. Rhiannon walked toward her.

"Excuse me? My betrothed requires fresh bed linens. He's… under the weather just now. Could you bring those quickly? Hand them to me out here, and I will take care of it." Rhiannon said.

"As you wish, Milady." the servant nodded, then she scurried down the corridor.

"Well, that was appropriately timed." Guy whispered.

"Indeed. Let us hope she doesn't dawdle." Rhiannon said, softly.

Within a short time, about ten minutes, the servant returned carrying the folded bed linens.

"You shouldn't be doing this, Milady. I don't think the Sheriff would approve." the woman said, nodding to Rhiannon's right arm.

"In this case, it is best I take care of it. He wouldn't want to be seen just now. He's not feeling well." Rhiannon said.

Guy kept his head down, silently willing the servant to not make a scene.

"You sure he won't be angry?" the servant asked.

"I'm sure. He'll greatly appreciate the privacy." Rhiannon nodded.

"Very well." the woman sighed. She passed them to Rhiannon.

"Will that be all, Milady?"

"Yes. That's fine. Thank you." Rhiannon said.

The woman shrugged, then nodded and went on her way.

"Okay, you're up. Ready?" Guy whispered.

"Yes. Let's do this."

Guy knocked on the door again. The Sheriff opened it within moments.

"The servant, Milord." Guy said, keeping his head down and his voice disguised once more.

"Good. Enter." the Sheriff said to Rhiannon.

Rhiannon nodded and stepped through the threshold. Then he closed the door. She stood a moment waiting for direction. What she really wanted to do was shake some sense into him.

"You're new here, aren't you?" he asked with his eyes narrowed.

"Not too new, Milord." she said.

"You obviously are, otherwise you'd be performing your task by now." he said, brusquely.

"I was awaiting your directive. I'm not usually assigned to your chambers, Milord." she said, keeping her head down.

"I see. You may proceed." he said.

She nodded and continued toward the bedchamber.

"Keep the doors open." he instructed.

She turned her head back toward him.

"As you wish, Milord." she replied.

She walked into the bedchamber and went to the bed. She set the fresh linens aside on a chair, then proceeded to strip the bed. She shook her head, silently cursing that she had to play this role. But, his eyes showed no recognition when he looked at her. She never would have imagined in her wildest dreams a scenario such as this. She fervently hoped this phase wouldn't last for too much longer.

After a few minutes, she was adding the blankets to the bed. He strolled inside and stopped to inspect her work.

"That looks satisfactory. Good." he said, simply.

"Of course." Rhiannon said as she gathered the old linens.

"What… is that noise?" he asked.

"Noise?"

"Yes, it's like a tapping sort of sound. Constant."

"It's been lashing rain all day with fierce winds, Milord. I'm guessing that's what you're hearing?" she said.

"I see." a beat. "You can look at me, you know." the Sheriff said, catching her completely off guard.

Rhiannon stopped dead in her tracks and swallowed, dryly. Then, she slowly raised her head to look him in the eye.

He was only a few feet away. He stared into her eyes for a moment, with his eyes narrowed, curiously.

"How is it a comely woman like yourself is occupied as a lady servant?"

"It's just how it is, Milord." Rhiannon nodded then looked downcast.

"Interesting. I must say, none of the others look the way you do." he said as he folded his arms. He was beginning to be suspicious. Interesting how this maiden keeps showing up today -- of all days.

"Luck, I suppose." she shrugged. She cleared her throat. "Your fire is almost out, Milord. I will take care of that. This room is going to become very chill without it."

"Very well." he nodded.

The Sheriff watched as she set the old linens on the floor then set to work. She deftly gathered tinder, and was about to set it alight with the fire striker and flint rock, when he suddenly felt strange to be allowing her to take care of such a task.

He moved toward her and spoke.

"Miss? It's alright. Step aside. I'll take care of that fi — " he was interrupted by a sudden sensation of pain on his lower left side of his abdomen as he was attempting to bend down. He grasped it with his left hand and looked down to his belly. He was suddenly aware of the dressing placed there under his tunic.

"What in the name of the Devil is this?" he exclaimed.

"Milord?" she asked, pretending to appear ignorant of the matter, yet silently praying this would be the miracle needed to elicit a memory.

"Why the bleeding hell am I bandaged?" he exclaimed.

"You do not know, Milord?"

"Are you inferring that you do, Missy?" he asked with his eyes narrowed upon her.

"No, Milord. But, it's… rather peculiar that you don't remem… are unaware of it." she stammered.

"Indeed. I've noticed a lot of peculiar things about this day." he muttered.

"If it's painful, perhaps more brandy might help? It will also help to warm you." Rhiannon said.

"Who said I was chill?"

"No one. I can just tell by your pale complexion. You need heat from within — the brandy, and external heat, too — the fire I'm working on. That will surely bring some colour to your face, Milord." Rhiannon said. Then she began to add kindling to the flaming tinder.

"I didn't really ask for your opinion, especially not in lecture form. Why are you eager for me to drink more brandy?" he demanded.

"I'm not eager, Milord. It was a suggestion. It was given for the reasons I stated."

"How is it you know so much… for a lady servant?"

"I read a lot, Milord." she nodded.

"Guess that explains your loquaciousness." he sighed.

Rhiannon shrugged while she tried to focus on her task. It was helping her escape the absurd altered reality she was experiencing.

"Are you my Lieutenant's latest paramour of the week?" Nottingham asked, abruptly.

Rhiannon paused a moment, staring into the fire that was beginning to take shape. She slowly stood and turned to face him.

"I beg your pardon?" she asked.

"You're Gisborne's newest lady friend, aren't you?"

"No, Milord."

"Oh, come now. A fair maiden such as yourself? Don't pretend to not have invitations to various private chambers piling up." he smirked.

"It matters not even if there were. There is only one man who has my heart, and he wouldn't deign to speak — " she stopped herself, suddenly realizing the man she could generally stand up to, was not the same one before her now.

Damn you, George! When are you going to snap out of this state you're in? You're the one who has my heart. Why can't you just look at me and see it?

"What was that? I didn't quite catch that?" the Sheriff demanded, sharply.

Rhiannon shook her head and looked downcast.

"I must have misinterpreted. It sounded like you forgot your place for a moment, since you spoke out of turn, with an illusory superiority!" the Sheriff hissed.

"Indeed. Forgive me." she nodded and kept her head low.

"Finish the fire and then you are dismissed. On your way out, tell the sentry to summon my Lieutenant. I've a few questions for him." he said.

"As you wish, Milord." she nodded, then completed the task of building the fire.

A few minutes later, she was placing a log on the fire. When she stood she noticed her betrothed was walking slowly toward the chair, a bit unsteady in his gait.

"Milord? Are you alright?" she asked.

"Fine." he said as took a seat on the chair. "Are we done here?"

"Yes, Milord."

"Good. Now, take those linens out of here and have the sentry summon Gisborne." he instructed with a dismissive wave of his hand.

She nodded and followed his instructions.

A few moments later she was outside of the chambers, speaking to Guy.

"Is he asleep now?" Guy asked.

"No. I think he will sleep soon. He's asking for you. He told me to have his sentry summon you."

"Hope he doesn't ask me to accompany him to the dungeon. I told him Hood is there. That would be his customary practice — to meet with a prisoner, especially one who is a person of interest. There's also the matter of him not knowing the current Jailer, Joseph." Guy sighed.

"I don't think it's about that." Rhiannon said.

"Why do you think that?"

"He discovered the bandage. It looked like he felt discomfort for a moment. That was when he noticed it." Rhiannon said.

"I see. Guess I'd better think of something." Guy sighed.

"Why not try telling him the truth of it? As Thomas did earlier today. He's giving in to the drug now. He's relaxing, and perhaps he'll be more open to suggestion?" Rhiannon mused.

"I suppose I could try. Curses! I was hoping he would be out cold by now. It's boring, but at least we can handle him." a beat. "What about that wine mixture? Did you get a chance to offer that?"

"No. He's still alert. He's a bit relaxed, but not relaxed enough for that."

"Very well." Guy said as he took off the helm and shook out his hair. He passed the helm to Rhiannon. "Alright. I'm going in. I'll let you know when he's asleep. Keep the door open a crack, then you can listen in."

Rhiannon nodded as she took the helm from him.

Moments later she could hear them speaking.

"Cousin. There you are. Tell me: what in the name of Zeus is a bandage doing on my lower belly?" Nottingham demanded.

"You were injured recently, Cousin." Guy said.

"That's rich, Gis. If that is so, why do I not remember it occuring?"

"You, uh… lost quite a bit of blood." Guy said.

"Is this your idea of a jape, Gis?"

"No. You're recovering. That's why things seem… off."

"Off? You don't say! I don't recall doing anything else today except for falling asleep and waking — over and over. I suddenly have the most verbose, and frustrating handmaiden in all of England working for me; and now, I discover I've been butchered! What the bleeding hell is going on, Gis?" the Sheriff demanded.

Rhiannon sighed as she stood at the door with her ear to the crack in order to hear them. He certainly was quite testy with people. Even Sir Guy!

"Like I said, Cousin. You were injured."

"And, I'm just supposed to be satisfied with that answer?"

"That is the fact of the matter, Cousin." Guy said.

"Fascinating. Now, whom is this new lady friend of yours?"

"There is no lady friend of any sort." Guy said.

"Ah ha ha! Really? Why do I have a strong suspicion you know that green eyed maiden that was just here changing my bedding? The same one who was here this afternoon — with you?" Nottingham demanded.

Rhiannon stiffened. She knew it was she he was referring to.

"I only know her to be a servant, and she assisted Thomas earlier."

"You're seriously telling me you're not involved with her?"

"That is correct, Cousin."

"Interesting." the Sheriff muttered.

"What is?"

"How overconfident she appears. You telling me you don't know her name?"

"I don't know her, Cousin."

"I see." Nottingham said. His eyelids began to feel heavy.

"Are you alright, Cousin?" Guy asked.

"Sleepy… for some… peculiar reason."

"Not that peculiar considering your wound. You're still recovering." Guy pointed out.

"So you… say." he said, softly.

"Cousin? You're nodding off."

"Right." Nottingham said. "Perhaps I should sit on the bed."

He arose from the chair and began to walk toward the bed. Guy noticed him begin to falter, so he moved in closer and began to guide him.

"I shouldn't feel… like this." Nottingham said.

"I'm sure you'll feel better in a day or two, Cousin." Guy reassured him.

Nottingham took a seat on the bed, then leaned back against the pillows.

"That… servant." the Sheriff began.

"What of her, Cousin?"

"Green eyes. They were… oddly familiar." Nottingham whispered. Then he began to close his eyes.

Guy spotted the flask on the table by the bed. He went to it and picked it up and began to sniff it. It was definitely the wine and cloves mixture. He took it to the Sheriff.

"Here, Cousin. Just take a sip of this before you sleep."

"What now?" Nottingham whispered.

"It's to help heal your blood after that wound you sustained." Guy said as he held the flask to his lips.

The Sheriff was unable to protest at this point, so he conceded and took a small measure of it. After he swallowed, he looked to his Lieutenant.

"Why… do her eyes seem… familiar?" he asked.

"Perhaps you know her somehow, Cousin?"

"Impossible. I'd remember her if… I'd seen her prior to… today." Nottingham whispered.

"We will talk more when you wake, Cousin."

"She's… not like the other ones." he said as he closed his eyes.

"Indeed." Guy nodded.

He was asleep in moments. Guy returned the flask to the table, then left the bedchamber. He closed the doors then went to get Lady Rhiannon.

"He's asleep now. He took a measure of the wine mixture just before." Guy said.

"Good. I'm relieved to hear that. He hasn't had that for several hours."

"We… might be getting somewhere, Lady Rhiannon." Guy hinted.

"Did he remember anything?" Rhiannon asked.

"Not clearly. He just commented that your eyes look oddly familiar to him."

"Really?" Rhiannon smiled.

"As I said, it's only a start."

"It's better than nothing." Rhiannon said.

"Indeed. And, if Thomas agrees to it, I think you need to come back when he wakes again."

"It wouldn't be usual for him to summon for a servant in the middle of the night, Sir Guy." Rhiannon pointed out.

"True. But, if some sort of spill happened, he would then." Guy smirked.

"I don't know if I can keep this up. It's exhausting." Rhiannon sighed.

"Come. I'd rather we speak of this in his chambers then out here. Every time a servant, or a guard walks by they look at me funny." Guy said as held the door for her.

Rhiannon nodded and stepped inside.

"There's something about you that sparked something in him, Lady Rhiannon. You might hold the key to bringing him out of this cursed state he is in. He was trying to figure out why your eyes were familiar to him. He asked more than a few questions about you." Guy whispered.

"I suppose I could try. But, if you think I'm changing those sheets again, you can forget it." Rhiannon said.

"I'm sure we can think of something." Guy chuckled.

"I never thought it could be so difficult to know what to say to him. In all the time I've known him, I've never had to mentally edit my words before I spoke them. All I had to do was be myself, and he accepted and embraced it from the first time we spoke." Rhiannon said.

"Maybe that's what needs to happen?"

"Doubtful. I let it slip for a moment. I spoke back to him when he said I must have invitations piling up to a number of private chambers. He didn't like that." Rhiannon said.

"What happened?" Guy asked.

"He said very sharply that I'd forgotten my place. That I spoke to him with an illusory superiority. I had to smooth that one over with a quick apology." she sighed.

"Sounds just like something he would've said — three years ago."

"On occasion he would start to show that dark side of him, but it was veiled. I've never really seen that true side of him — until today." Rhiannon said.

"That part of him has been gone for a long time, Lady Rhiannon. That used to be who he was, until he learned a few hard lessons. That's not the true him. The true one is the man you coaxed out of him. So, let's talk about how we can reach that man." Guy suggested.

"I wish I knew how, Sir Guy."

"There must be something. A memory that only you and he would know of. I've heard that smells and sounds trigger memories."

"Interesting. I will think on that, Sir Guy."

"Good, because it just might work." Guy said.

"I want to see him before I go back to your chambers."

"Very well. I better make sure he is truly asleep first."

Rhiannon nodded.

Guy walked over to the doors and opened one of them softly to peek inside. He left it open and returned to Rhiannon.

"He's definitely asleep, Lady Rhiannon."

"Very well. I'll only be a moment." she said.

She slowly walked to the bedchamber then stepped inside. She stood a moment, observing him before advancing close to the bedside. She removed one of his blankets, folded it and placed it near the doors. Waking up chilled might cause him to summon a servant when he next awakened. It would certainly be better than having to tidy a mess from a spill, as Guy suggested. Then she returned to him. She sat upon the bed then leaned in close to him.

"That green eyed lady you mentioned to your cousin, George? It is I. Your betrothed. I love you dearly, sugar. I need you to come back to me. My sweet prince, you must return. The castle is cold and empty without you. So is my existence. We have a daughter to bury, my love, and a wedding to get to on Tuesday — ours. I will never give up trying to get you back, George." she whispered.

Then she bent down and softly kissed his cheek. She reached for his hand and squeezed it gently for a few moments, looking upon his face before leaving him.

"You are loved, my sweet. The man who emerged from you today isn't, but the one I know is loved very much. We have a good life, and it's waiting for you. I will cherish you all the days of my life. You just need to come out and let me do that. And, it's not just me. You and Sir Guy have a close bond. You have a Knight who is so fiercely loyal to you, I believe he would die to protect you. In your heart, I think you believe that of Luke, too. So many of us need you right now. Just… come back to us." Rhiannon whispered into his ear.

The Sheriff was deep in sleep, and entering into the strangest of dreams. It was like he was looking down upon himself, watching the servant woman sitting on the bed, holding his hand, and whispering something. What is happening? He thought. And then, the dream became even more strange…

"Well, this is something they didn't warn me about." a young girl suddenly spoke, as she exhaled a sigh.

He looked beside him, wondering whom the young girl was with the bouncy dark curls who suddenly appeared beside him -- floating, just like him.

"Who are you?" he asked.

"Sela. We've… met before." she replied as she looked up into his eyes.

"When? I don't know you. And, why is my servant behaving like that?" he asked, pointing to the scene below them.

"We met a couple of days ago. In your world, anyway. In mine, it feels like it was just moments ago."

"Are we… dead?" Nottingham asked, pointedly.

"I am, but, you are not."

"What is happening? Who is that woman, and why is she acting so strange with me?"

"That's for you to find out. She's not with you by chance." Sela said.

"If you're dead, why are you talking to me? I don't know you."

"You do, you just don't remember right now." she smiled.

"But… why? There's nothing wrong with my mind, despite what my physician would have me believe." the Sheriff huffed.

"Time has been altered for you. That's the only thing wrong. It' has caused you to forget." she said.

"Whom is this Luke bloke I heard my servant mention a moment ago? I don't know anyone with that name?" he asked, with a curious shake of his head.

"You do. You just don't remember."

"What is the meaning of this? This is absurd! Tell her to leave!" he demanded.

"She cannot see, or hear us. And, she is right where she needs to be. I'm here to show you what is meant to be." she said.

"What? Even in dreams, people are trying to trick me!"

"It's not a trick. What you're seeing is your actual reality. You just cannot remember it, regrettably." Sela frowned.

"Bollocks!"" he spat.

"Mind your language, Milord. It's not… acceptable here."

"What are you supposed to be? Some otherworldly angel, or spirit guide, or something similarly odd?"

"We… are related."

"How? I never had a sister, to my knowledge. I had a brother who died when he was born. I'm not even sure if he was given a name." the Sheriff said, shaking his head.

"He was. His name is Gawain." Sela smiled.

"And, how the… how would you know that?" he asked, pointedly.

"Because we're related, and I've met him."

"But, he is dead!"

"Yes. And, so am I; although, from what I've seen so far, I'm doing better than most… living people." Sela remarked with a shake of her head.

"That's the most asinine statement I've ever heard!" the Sheriff exclaimed.

"Is it?" she shrugged.

"Tell me now why my servant is acting so familiar with me. Make her go away. This is madness!" he growled.

"She is familiar to you. You just cannot recall. I wish you would. I thought I could help you see the truth, but it seems you're not quite ready." Sela sighed.

"Who are you, again?" he asked.

"I am Sela." she smiled.

"And, how are we related? I don't believe you specified that."

"In time, you will know."

"What? How much time? Will I see you again, Sela?"

"Yes. In three days time, or… the month of May." she giggled.

"I knew you were going to say that." the Sheriff sighed. Then, his eyes widened as he looked into her eyes. If he only focused on her eyes, he realized it was almost like looking into a mirror… oddly. "Wait. How did I know you would say that? That's insane! I've never seen you before?"

"It's not mad. Part of you remembers some things, you're just not ready to see all of it." Sela shrugged.

"Why?"

"Because of all you've endured in the last three days of real time. It has affected you in a most unexpected way. Luckily, Mother is not giving up." she said. Then, she put her hand over her mouth when she realized she said too much.

"What? Whom is your mother? What are you babbling about, child?" he asked curiously, as his eyebrow shot north.

"It is nothing, Milord." she said as she began to fade.

"Wait! Tell me what's going on!" he demanded.

"Patience." she whispered. And then, she was gone.

It was three hours later when Lady Rhiannon awakened in the Gisbornes' chambers. She sat up on the sofa she had been reclined on and grabbed the cup of now chilled wheatgrass tea she had been sipping before she nodded off. After she finished it, she set the cup down, and was startled as Meridwyn came out of the bedchamber, carrying a folded blanket.

"Oh. I didn't expect you to be awake." Meridwyn said.

"I just awakened. What about you? Did you sleep?" Rhiannon asked.

"Off and on. I brought you an extra blanket. I don't know why you won't just lay on the bed, honey. It's quite large. It's not like I'd be in your way." Meridwyn smirked.

"It already feels strange, Meridwyn. Even though this was your husband's idea, I feel like I'm intruding."

"Oh, for God's sake, Rhiannon. Nonsense! You're my closest friend, and soon to be our sister in law."

"It's funny how everyone has more confidence in the wedding occurring than I do." Rhiannon sighed.

"You must have faith. It will happen." Meridwyn soothed. She placed the blanket beside her friend on the sofa, then took a seat in a chair across from her.

"You haven't seen him since this new phase began. He doesn't know me, Meridwyn. To him I'm just a servant… who talks too much."

"Rhiannon."

"You should try and sleep more. You need it. So does the child."

"I'm fine, Rhiannon. You mustn't worry about that, or any of these other things."

"Where do you suppose my daughter is?" Rhiannon asked suddenly, changing the subject.

"I'm not certain." Meridwyn answered.

"Well, what would usually happen if there was a… death in the castle?"

"There hasn't been any since I've been around, frankly. Except for the couple of executions that took place of the two Sheriff's men since ninety four. And, I've no idea what happened there when it was over." Meridwyn shrugged.

"Who would know?" Rhiannon asked.

"I'd guess Thomas would have the answer to that. Or, maybe the servant who took her away?"

"You don't think… she was buried already, do you?" Rhiannon asked with her eyes widened in horror.

"No. They could not do that without permission from your betrothed, at the very least."

"Who would prepare her body? And, why wouldn't they ask me to do it?"

"I think there's nuns that are called in for such a task. Many believe it's bad luck to look upon the dead, so, often nuns, rather than family takes care of it. Also, you've been quite busy the last couple of days, honey." Meridwyn reminded her.

"I wish I could see her one more time." Rhiannon lamented.

"Maybe you could see her again with your betrothed once he… snaps out of this state he is in."

"I hope he does soon. This is madness. So much has been altered because of it. It's exhausting, Meridwyn." Rhiannon sighed.

"Perhaps he just needs a little coaxing?" Meridwyn suggested.

"Sir Guy says I should try with a memory that only George and I would know about."

"That's a start. Can you think of anything?"

"There's a few things I can think of. Your husband says he's heard that sounds and smells can usually elicit memories." Rhiannon said.

"Interesting. Perhaps you just need to think on that a bit more, until it comes to you."

"What sort of sound, I wonder?"

"I don't know. Music, perhaps? Have you two ever danced?" Meridwyn asked.

"We have… once." Rhiannon whispered. She thought on it a moment. Then it came to her. It was a gamble, but maybe it was worth a try?

"I can see the wheels turning in your head from here. Did you think of something?"

"Perhaps. Just not sure if it will work."

"Anything is worth trying at this point, Rhiannon."

"Indeed." Rhiannon nodded.

She was summoned by Gisborne less than an hour later. After he escorted her back to the chambers, and they had a quick word with Thomas — who had checked on her betrothed while Guy escorted her back there; they were speaking in the den, awaiting the Sheriff's awakening.

"Thomas says he appears to be in a deep sleep, still." Rhiannon said, as she stifled a yawn.

"True, but as you know it's best we're prepared in advance of him wakening." Guy reminded her.

"I want a moment with him now before he wakes, Sir Guy."

"It's risky, Lady Rhiannon. It's unpredictable how long the belladonna will keep him down."

"I don't mean to wake him, Sir Guy. It's just an idea I have. A memory I wish to whisper to him. Then when he's awake later I could try… repeating it." Rhiannon said.

"It can't wait until he falls asleep again later? You could mention it when he's awake, then again when he falls back to sleep. In reverse order of what you're suggesting." Guy suggested.

"No, Sir Guy. I honestly think this will work better. Please, let me try." she implored him.

"Let me just check and see for myself first." Guy said.

Rhiannon nodded and observed as he went to the doors, softly opened them and stood a moment, watching her betrothed. After a few moments, he closed the doors and returned to her.

"Very well. He appears sound asleep. Whatever it is, I suggest you make it quick, Lady Rhiannon. Do what you must, then make a fast exit. We must be ready for him when he comes to."

"I will." she said.

Rhiannon entered into the bedchamber and gently closed the doors behind her. What she needed to say to her betrothed was private, and she didn't wish to be overheard, even though she planned to use a soft voice.

She slowly walked to the bed, and sat beside him.

"I don't know if you can hear me while asleep, my love, but I'm desperate to try anything to reach you." Rhiannon began in a whisper. "It was just over a sennight ago we realized we had never danced. I shared with you a song I composed several years ago. It is all about you. You remember I told you once that I used to dream of you before I met you? Indeed, I loved you before I knew you. You liked the song, George. Asked me to have musicians play it at our wedding. Listen, my sweet. It goes… something like this." she whispered softly. Then, she quietly cleared her throat and began to sing softly into his ear:

"In the solitude I see him in my dreams;

The dark wraith who haunts;

The Knight shall come, I do believe;

The man whose role is paramount.

Spare a thought for the lady;

Yearning for her Knight;

She knows she needs him, though she is afraid;

She has only seen him in her mind."

Rhiannon stopped a moment as she looked upon his handsome face, yearning for him to wake up and recognize her. She sighed.

"I hope no one but you can hear me, my love. There's one more verse. Here it is." she said.

"Spare a thought for your lady,

Dark Knight of the dreamer;

She's knows you exist somewhere;

She is yours, but you have yet to meet her." she sang softly to him.

"I hope you remember it. I shall remind you once more when you are awake. I'm praying you make the connection. Next you hear it there shall be no words. It wouldn't make sense to you as long as you don't know me. And, when you come back to me, perhaps I will finish it. I feel like it needs another verse. And… we shall dance at our wedding, George. But, you need to remember, and follow your memory back to me." she whispered fervently.

She sat with him a few moments, taking in his peaceful countenance. She knew it wouldn't last, and she must be prepared for the chaos yet to come. But, somehow, she hoped she had managed to unlock a door for him. She could never give up on him.

After a few more moments, she softly left him, then exited the chambers. After closing the doors.she wordlessly walked to the sofa then seated herself upon it, feeling a bit drained by having to work so hard to reach the man she loved dearly, yet, she was determined, notwithstanding.

"Are you alright, Lady Rhiannon?" Guy asked. For, the lady looked tired.

"Yes. I just hope the memory I shared with him reached him somehow. I won't let him forget, however." Rhiannon sighed.

"Rest now. I shall wake you when it's time. You might need it. You're starting to know how… chaotic he could be."

"Yes, a little. I will try." she nodded.

Despite her best efforts to fight it, she fell asleep in moments.

It felt like she had only just nodded off when Gisborne was shaking her awake. In fact, it was close to an hour later.

"Lady Rhiannon!" Guy whispered urgently. "It's time. He's waking up."

Rhiannon opened her eyes and immediately felt her heart beating fast knowing what was to come. She sat up, rubbed her eyes then stood from the sofa.

"I'll grab the goblet so I can put the drops in it outside the chambers." Rhiannon sighed.

"Good thinking. Let's go." Guy said as he grabbed the helm on the way out the door.

Once outside the door of his chambers Rhiannon went off to the nearby alcove to conceal herself, as well as pour the belladonna. Guy tucked his hair up under the helm as he placed it on his head, and they waited.

Finally, after several minutes the door opened.

"Guard, I need a servant to come in again. The wind has blown ash from the fireplace all over the marble floor! Have one of them come immediately." Nottingham commanded.

"As you wish, Milord." Guy nodded, keeping his head low and his voice disguised.

"Good. Tell them to make haste. It's a bloody disgrace in my bedchamber." he sneered. Then he shut the door closed.

Rhiannon came out of the alcove. She looked to Guy.

"Did you hear that?" Guy sighed, shaking his head.

"Yes. Guess I had better go looking for rags and a bucket of soapy water. Curses!" Rhiannon muttered.

"Indeed."

"Any idea where I might find that?" Rhiannon asked.

"Stay there in the alcove. I'll fetch a servant and return with the necessary items. They won't question me if they know it is me." Guy said as he took off the helm. He passed it to Rhiannon. "Take this with you. I'll return shortly with the necessary items."

"Thank you." she said.

Rhiannon followed his instructions and waited. She grew more impatient and nervous as time moved slowly. It seemed like a long time had passed. She was growing worried her betrothed would come out of the chambers, impatient to have his request carried out. He would wonder what was taking his sentry so long. Would he find her?

Finally, Guy returned. He took the helm from her and put it back on, tucking his hair up under it.

"You ready?" he asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be." Rhiannon sighed.

She had a bunch of rags tucked up under her left arm, the bucket of water carried in her left hand, the goblet held in the other.

Guy nodded and walked to the door, then knocked.

The door opened swiftly.

"It's about time! Is the servant with you?" Nottingham asked.

Guy nodded then stepped aside, as Lady Rhiannon came into his view.

"You've got to be jesting. You again? Don't you ever sleep?"

"Duty calls, Milord. I'm on night duty, you see." Rhiannon said.

"Interesting. Alright. Whatever! Enter." he said, as he held the door open wider for her.

She walked through the threshold then he closed the door.

"Where is it you wish for me to clean?" Rhiannon asked as she set the bucket on the floor.

"It's in the bedchamber by the fireplace. There's ash on the floor." he said as he moved toward the sofa, his back to her.

She used the moment to place the goblet beside the decanter of brandy. He was just seating himself when she picked the bucket up from the floor and headed into the bedchamber.

She began to set to work. She kneeled and used dry rags to move most of the ash back to the fireplace. She began to curse under her breath again, in disbelief that she actually was forced to toil in his chambers, to play a role to satisfy him. Then she remembered she had a goal in mind which she already set in motion while he was asleep earlier. So, she began to hum the melody of the song she composed. Softly, at first, but a slight increase in volume occurred by the time she was washing the floor with wet, soapy rags. She kept at it, losing herself in the melody as she continued to hum it, unaware he was observing while leaned against the door frame with his arms folded, his curiosity piqued.

"What is that tune you're humming, Miss?" he asked, suddenly startling her.

She jolted from her task and looked up.

"Oh, it is nothing, really. Just a silly song." she shrugged.

"It's rather pleasing." he remarked.

"Yes. I suppose." she said as she continued to mop at the floor.

"Continue. Perhaps you'll feel more at ease if I step aside. My mouth is dry." he said, then he turned and left her.

Rhiannon smiled. She hoped that meant he would pour some brandy into the goblet. She continued with her task and began to hum her song once more.

After a few minutes had passed she was satisfied with her work and stood. She turned around and was startled to see he was standing near to her. Perhaps only a few feet away, looking at her curiously as he held the goblet in his hand. He took a sip from it, then spoke.

"Do you drink brandy, Miss?" he asked.

"On occasion." she said.

"Would you like some?" he asked.

"I'm on duty, Milord." Rhiannon said.

"Indeed. Where is Hildith? She usually takes care of matters in here."

"It's her… night off, Milord."

"Is it, now?"

"Aye."

"I see." Nottingham said as he took a generous swig of the brandy. "Well, Miss, it's funny how you've consistently turned up here since yesterday afternoon. Seems you're on twenty four hour duty from what I can tell. Peculiar, don't you think?"

"Not really. Some of the servants have been rather… under the weather lately. It leaves the rest of us to pick up the slack." she shrugged, pleased with herself for her quick wit not failing her at this ungodly hour.

"How long has this been going on?"

"Only a couple of days, Milord. I expect things will return to normal expediently." she said.

"Good. You look like you could use some sleep. Not that I'd normally care, but I can't help but notice the dark circles under your eyes." he said as he took another sip from his goblet.

"I thank you for your concern, Milord. I am fine, however." Rhiannon shrugged.

"Follow me, Miss. I've a few questions for you." he said, as he gestured for her to follow him into the den.

She nodded and brought the bucket and rags with her. She set them outside the door of the bed chamber. He motioned toward the sofa in the den, and he seated himself in a chair across from it. She nodded and took a seat.

"Have we… met before, Miss?" he asked, directly.

Rhiannon swallowed, dryly. At first she didn't know how to respond. She wanted to walk over to him and shake him. Tell him he was the love of her life, and they were to marry in five days hence. She wanted to tell him everything. But, then she realized she couldn't. He needed to remember on his own, nobody could force it.

"Well, sure. We've spoken before… in passing. When I was working alongside some of the other servants, Milord."

"Funny. I don't seem to recall. What is your name?"

"My name is… Rhiannon." she muttered then looked to her lap.

"That's an unusual name. Quite pleasing, though." he said.

"I suppose." she shrugged.

"Did… you compose that… song you were humming?" he asked.

"Pardon, Milord?" she said. She stiffened when he asked her, and she tried to conceal it.

He couldn't help but notice how tense she appeared.

"You composed it, didn't you?" a beat. "Why do I believe that?" he said with a sigh, shaking his head in confusion.

"I… did, Milord." she admitted. There was no use lying about that at this point.

"How did you think of it?" he asked.

"From… a dream. A beautiful dream." she said.

"I think I understand that. I've been having some strange dreams myself, of late." he muttered.

"I hope they're not distressing, Milord?"

"They're just… peculiar. Vivid. Like an… out of body experience." he shrugged.

"That sounds distressing to me." Rhiannon said.

"Yes, I suppose it is." he said as he took another sip of the brandy.

"Sometimes dreams can guide us." she said.

"Or, just disturb our sleep." he sneered.

"Indeed, Milord." Rhiannon sighed.

Outside the door of the chambers, Guy was surprised to see Luke approaching him, looking oddly alert and focused considering the hour.

"Luke, what the hell are you doing here?" Guy whispered.

"I'm here to relieve you, Sir Gisborne." Luke replied, simply. He was feeling alert and refreshed, thanks to Diego. And, that is when he got the idea to use it to his advantage. He would help Sir Gisborne, and that would, in turn, help the Sheriff.

"What? Are you mad? What did I say to you earlier?" Guy demanded in hushed tones.

"I know what you said, Sir Gisborne. But, I've been laying awake thinking about it."

"Damn it, Luke. Go to your chambers. He's awake right now!" Guy exclaimed in a whisper.

"Is he back to normal?" Luke asked.

"Would I be acting like this if he were?"

"Point taken. Just hear me out." Luke said.

"I suggest you make it quick, and it had better be good." Guy said with his eyes narrowed.

"Very well. From what I'm seeing, you're still playing to the old Sheriff. We don't know how he'd react to those he knows normally. We won't know it, until we test it." Luke began, speaking a little too rapidly.

Guy regarded him, curiously.

"So, what is the grand plan, Luke?" Guy sighed.

"Let me take over from you for awhile. You'll be more suited to handle this mess if you can get some sleep."

"Slight problem with that. Lady Rhiannon is staying in my quarters with my wife, since my cousin doesn't know her."

"Stay in my quarters, until I summon for you. We can arrange a time for that. This could get messy as first light breaks. I'm guessing he'll be fighting to stay awake during the daylight hours." Luke said.

"You have a point there. Just one other… teensy wee problem with that, Luke." Guy said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Alright? What?" Luke asked.

"He does not know you!" Guy huffed. "God's nightgown, Luke!"

"And? Does it really matter, Sir Gisborne? There's many of his men he doesn't really know. Alfred has been in Milord's employ for two years, and he can never get Alfred's name right." Luke pointed out.

"You do raise a good point there, I'll grant you that." Guy sighed.

"Even just a couple of hours of sleep will do you some good."

"I really didn't want to go off from the original plan." Guy parried.

"Of course not, but how long can you keep at this charade?" Luke pointed out.

"Very well. Two hours. We should wait a few moments for Lady Rhiannon to emerge." Guy said.

"I thought you said he doesn't know her? She is in there — with him?" Luke asked, nodding to the door.

"She is acting as a servant. So far, it has worked, although it's a bit jarring for her at times."

"I see. Very well." Luke said.

"How is it you're so alert at this time of night, Luke?" Guy asked, his eyebrow raised, suspiciously.

"I'm not sure. Just that I couldn't sleep. I was mulling over what you told us after dusk. I had to do something to help." Luke shrugged.

"I see. Just stay here. I'm sure he'll be letting her out shortly."

Luke nodded, then together they waited.

"Are you sure you're not currently mixed up with my Lieutenant, Miss?" Nottingham asked.

"Very sure. My heart belongs to another." Rhiannon said.

"That's too bad." he muttered as he took another sip of the brandy.

"At the moment… I agree." she replied softly, and looked downcast.

"Fascinating. Why is that? If he has your heart, why the doubt?"

"He is… away, Milord." she muttered.

"Ah. So, you're lonely, then." he nodded.

"Just missing him." she said.

"I see." he muttered. "When were you hired? It's strange I can't seem to recall." he mused with a stifled yawn.

"Not long. About six months." she said.

"Interesting." he muttered.

"I suppose." she nodded.

"How well do you know my Lieutenant?"

"Not… very well, Milord."

"Yet, he was unfazed with you addressing him in a more familiar manner than what is customary. Rather peculiar, from my perspective, Miss." the Sheriff remarked with a curious quirk of his brow.

"I misspoke, Milord. Sir Gisborne was kind not to make a fuss about it." she shrugged.

"Is that so?"

"Indeed, Milord."

"So… you're not involved in whatever japery my Lieutenant and the medicus have plotted?" he asked, pointedly.

"I know of no trickery where you're concerned, Milord Sheriff." Rhiannon shrugged.

The only trick is a trick of your mind, my sweet -- caused by whomever the fool was who shot you with that arrow on Sunday. Curses! When, if ever, are you going to come back to us?

"Interesting. Because, from where I'm sitting, this castle is rife with questionable motives right now. And, that is not coincidental." he said.

"Aye. I'm sure." she nodded.

"This has been the most peculiar day ever." he muttered.

"It is, in fact, a new day, Milord. It is Thursday now."

"Obviously. I'm referring to everything that's happened since I awoke yesterday — oddly, in the afternoon. I'm usually halfway through my day by then."

"From what I've observed, you've been injured, Milord. You saw the dressing earlier. You know it to be true despite not recalling the incident."

"Yes, yes. What's your point?" the Sheriff huffed, impatiently.

"I think that would explain why you slept late yesterday, and why things seem peculiar to you." she said.

"A most bizarre turn of events."

I'll say! Rhiannon thought.

He began to yawn again as he blinked his eyes a few times.

"The floor in your bedchamber should be dry now, Milord. I will leave you, so that you can sleep." Rhiannon said.

She stood and went to gather the bucket and rags that were on the floor by the doors to the bedchamber, as the Sheriff arose and went to the door.

He held the door open for her. She smiled and nodded to him on her way out. She noticed Luke standing there with Sir Guy, but continued to act the part of the dutiful servant as she walked past them.

"Who are you?" Nottingham asked as he looked to Luke.

"I am Luke, Milord Sheriff. I came to relieve your sentry for a spell." Luke nodded.

"I see." he muttered, showing no recognition in his eyes. He went back inside and closed the door.

"He seriously does not know me?" Luke murmured, shaking his head in disbelief.

"A word of caution, Luke. Take nothing he says to you personally. He has no control of his mind at the moment." Guy whispered.

"Understood, Sir Gisborne." he nodded.

Rhiannon walked softly toward them.

"It's good to see you, Luke, but — what's going on?" she asked.

"He's insistent on relieving me for a couple of hours. He had a good point. I'll be better equipped to handle my cousin with a little sleep." Guy said.

"He's going to nap in my quarters." Luke added.

"I think that's a good idea. It's perfect. God only knows what he might get up to once daylight hits." Rhiannon sighed.

"How was he with you, Lady Rhiannon?" Guy asked.

"A good deal more cordial than previous dealings with him. That was a relief." she smiled.

"I'm pleased to hear that. He wasn't gruff with you? At all?" Guy asked.

"No. Not at all. He had a number of questions, but he wasn't at all rude to me. I was grateful for that."

"I'm pleased to hear that, too, Lady Rhiannon. Now, I'm here to try to make things easier on you both. It's time for me to take over now." Luke said, quickly.

"Indeed. I'll escort Lady Rhiannon to my chambers, then be on my way. Is your door unlocked, Luke?"

"Yes, Sir Gisborne." Luke nodded.

"You don't need to escort me, Sir Guy." Rhiannon said.

"I will do it, Lady Rhiannon. I'll make sure you're safe, and bid goodnight to my wife."

"Oh. Of course." she smiled.

"I'll see you when you summon me in two hours." a beat. "Good luck to you, Luke. Remember, don't take anything he says to you in anger personally. He doesn't know you." Guy reminded him.

"Indeed, Sir Gisborne." Luke nodded.

Guy extended his arm to Lady Rhiannon. She took it and he guided her back to his chambers.

After a few moments had passed, the Sheriff's door opened once more. Luke stood at attention, a little surprised. He had assumed the Sheriff had fallen asleep.

"You there. What did you say your name is, again?" Nottingham asked, impatiently.

"It is Luke, Milord Sheriff."

"Right. Have someone summon the Captain. I wish to see him at daybreak."

"Indeed. I shall have someone summon Duke Farnsworth — " Luke stopped himself, then looked downcast, immediately recognizing his mistake.

"What? Ah, ha, ha! Who the hell is Duke Farnsworth? Are you addled, boy? No, no, no! You shall have my Captain summoned. Nichol Burgess, to be sure." the Sheriff said, sharply.

"Regrettably, Milord, I'm afraid… the Captain… I cannot summon him." Luke stammered. He shifted in discomfiture.'

Nottingham reached out with his right hand and grabbed Luke roughly by his collar, pulling him toward him.

"You shall obey my command, boy! I have need to see my Captain. You will summon him. Got it?" he said brusquely, as his eyes narrowed onto Luke's.

Luke didn't know those eyes, or the harsh gruff growls as the Sheriff spoke. He didn't know this man at all.

"The Captain is… heavily engaged in… a mission, Milord Sheriff." Luke said.

"What? What is in the water around here that has caused everyone to behave as if they're in some cursed alternate reality? He has not been sent on a mission. None that I've authorized!"

"Of course, Milord." Luke said.

"I want him here at first light. Are we clear?" Nottingham asked, evenly.

"Yes, Milord." Luke nodded.

"Good." Nottingham spat as he let go of Luke's collar. "In future, you shall do as you're told without wasting my time with your nonsensical arguments. If you do not know whom your Captain is, then, what are you doing here?"

"Yes, Milord." Luke muttered, weakly.

"Whom is the Captain?"

"Nichol Burgess, Milord Sheriff." Luke said.

"Good. Now, we're getting somewhere." the Sheriff huffed.

"I will do that now, Milord."

"You better not be in on the God damn japery around here, either. Understood?" the Sheriff said sharply, while his eyebrow shot north, knowingly.

"Yes, my Lord Sheriff." Luke nodded in obeisance to him. "I will summon the Captain for you now."

"Yes, Lyle. Good of you to pay attention." he stated, flatly. Then he returned inside the chambers and slammed the door.

Luke exhaled a long sigh while tugging at his collar and shaking his head in disbelief. He didn't know whom that man was who was currently occupying the body of his employer, but that was not Milord Sheriff!

The next day and well into Friday progressed much the same. Somehow, the Sheriff had forgotten the demand of Luke to summon his former Captain. Gisborne and Lady Rhiannon continued in their roles, the medicus checked in frequently, and Luke took over again on Thursday night. By Friday, many of them were starting to lose hope he would come back to them, in the way they were accustomed to him. Those who knew him in the past he was now stuck in grew quite concerned.

Gisborne was running out of ideas. For two days, they had miraculously managed to keep the Sheriff confined to his chambers. But, how long could that possibly last? Guy fully expected that today would be the day that his cousin would escape the private chambers. He could tell his cousin was becoming restless and acting like a caged animal. It was not typical of the Sheriff to sit idle. He was always on the move, and consistently focused on his work. Guy knew in his gut that three years ago his cousin would be stewing in paranoia about being infirm and unable to perform for three days. If this situation occurred then, the Sheriff would not deign to stay in his chambers, even to his own detriment, because to do so would be an admission of weakness. He could lose his position, one he now assumed with pride in respect to his father who once held the same position, even though they had never met.

In the afternoon on Friday, the men were still out searching for the escaped prisoner. Guy was growing frustrated with the results so far, wondering if he should send a small detachment to Portsmouth, in case the potato bloke decided to head home. This was a matter that Guy wanted to speak to his cousin about, among other strange things that were discovered by some of the men while searching for the fugitive. He wondered when he would get the opportunity to have a logical conversation with his cousin again. So far, every conversation since the day the memory lapse occurred were tiresome.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Thomas was there to look in on the Sheriff who was expected to awaken sometime in the next hour. They spoke briefly then Guy left to get Lady Rhiannon from his chambers.

He found his wife to be entertaining both Ladies Wordsworth.

He walked over to Meridwyn and bent down to kiss her cheek. How he missed her company.

"It's time, isn't it?" Rhiannon sighed, as she set the cup of wheatgrass tea on the table beside her.

"He's expected to awaken in about an hour." Guy said.

"Sister, let me take your place. This is taking its toll on you. You've already been through too much these last six days, and it's only recently you stopped using that sling for your arm. What if it dislocates again? Let me bear the burden for you now." Isabelle offered.

"I must agree with her, Rhi. I'm worried about you reinjuring that arm again, too. You look kind of… dreadful, to be frank about it." Meridwyn smiled, ruefully.

"Now, that's not very polite, wife — but, I do see your point." Guy nodded.

"So far, my arm feels fine. Thomas says I mustn't carry anything heavy with it for a fortnight, but I should be fine without the sling now. I must try. I cannot give up on him. He never gave up on me, not one time. He managed to find me in the most Impossible circumstances, for, I didn't even know where I was! I mustn't stop." Rhiannon said, firmly.

"Honey, nobody said anything about a failure of your loyalty, or devotion to him. Isabelle is offering to give you a break. That's all. Why not accept the offer, as Guy has agreed to let Luke do the same turn for him?" Meridwyn asked, shaking her head.

"If he suddenly comes to his senses and I'm not there, how will that look? To him, specifically? It will appear that I do not care, and that I gave up on us. I can't do that to him. The man I love is trapped inside some black thorny vines, encasing his spirit. I'm going to keep thrashing at them until my proverbial arms fall off, if needs be." Rhiannon said.

"You see what I must endure whenever she's away from him? She starts sounding a bit… desperate. Shouldn't there be improvement in him by now, Guy? It's been three days. Surely something can be done to elicit a memory for him?" Meridwyn asked.

"I don't know the answer to that, Meridwyn. We're trying everything. We've tried acting like we're in the past with him. We've also had people with him who he's close with in the current time, but didn't know then — Lady Rhiannon, and Luke. It's mostly worked out, but… there was the time he threatened his betrothed with the tongue snippers, and grabbed Luke by the collar as he gave him a verbal lashing. Luke — his favourite Knight." Guy sighed.

"Interesting you'd put more emphasis on him admonishing Luke, then threatening Rhiannon with tongue snippers." Meridwyn muttered.

"The examples weren't given in particular order. It doesn't matter. He would never harm, or threaten to harm his lady, and he certainly wouldn't act that way towards Luke." Guy said.

"But… how is he with them now?" Isabelle asked.

"He's been fine with me since that incident." Rhiannon shrugged.

"Luckily, he forgot about the matter he spoke to Luke about that got him angered; and from what I can gather, he's been slightly better with Luke. Although, he keeps calling him "Lyle"." Guy sighed.

"Maybe he's gradually coming around. It's just hard for you to detect? Both of you are too invested in him, naturally so." Isabelle mused.

"Of course we are, Isabelle!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

"I just meant that you're both too close to him to be objective."

"So, we shouldn't continue what we're doing?" Rhiannon asked.

"No. But, you both need breaks from time to time." Isabelle said.

"I'm going in now, Isabelle. Since you're so insistent on this, I'll consider having you fill in for me later." Rhiannon sighed.

"Please do, Sister. He doesn't know me so I'd be a much more likely servant than Meridwyn whom he'd recognize from the Village." Isabelle said.

Rhiannon nodded.

"We had best be on our way, Lady Rhiannon." Guy said.

"Indeed." Rhiannon said as she stood from her chair. "You'd think I'd be inured to this by now, but each time I'm summoned I get nervous."

"Naturally, Rhiannon. I can't imagine it." Meridwyn sighed.

"Let's just hope I never hit my head, dearest." Guy said.

"You had better not, Guy!" Meridwyn said, firmly.

"Let us hope none of us ever hit our head, and that George never goes back to this state he is in once he comes back to us." Rhiannon frowned.

"Indeed, Sister." Isabelle agreed.

A short time later they arrived to the private chambers. They seated themselves in the den, then Thomas came out quietly from the bedchamber to update them. Everything appeared to be progressing normally, Thomas said. The rest of it, the memory lapse was just a waiting game. He couldn't predict when the Sheriff would come around.

"I wish he knew more, that he could tell us when we'll see an end to this." Guy remarked after Thomas left.

"I do, too. There's no use stewing about it, though. All we can do is meet the challenge." Rhiannon said.

"Of course. It's just… frustrating." Guy muttered.

"I know, but we mustn't lose our heads over this. In a… manner of speaking."

"No. Only one of us has, and that's enough for everyone right now." Guy huffed.

Just then they heard some rustling noises coming from inside the bedchamber.

"Curses! Sounds like he's waking. We had better step out now." Guy said as he stood from his seat.

He grabbed the helm that Duke Farnsworth had lent to him and together they quietly let themselves out.

Some time had passed, about twenty minutes, and they both were growing concerned that he wouldn't emerge.

"What do you suppose is taking him so long, Sir Guy?" Rhiannon asked.

"I think I know. Curses! I knew this moment would come." Guy spat.

"What?"

"Prepare yourself, Milady. I think… he's getting dressed."

"What? Dressed for what?"

"You know him, Lady Rhiannon. Could you honestly say that even if his mind were clear he'd be satisfied to stay in his chambers for days on end? You know that's not like him. Even injured, he was still performing his duties before this happened two days ago." Guy whispered.

"Oh, God. What will we do?"

"You hide in the alcove nearby as always, and… we play it by ear. Of course, I'm not one hundred percent certain, but that is my guess."

"Very well." she said.

"If he starts out the door, I'll give you the helm to hold for me while I follow him. And, let us hope he won't head to the dungeon — since there's a Jailer there he won't recognize, and a particular prisoner who isn't there. And, I'm not talking about the escaped one his men are currently after." Guy said with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Surely he's forgotten that conversation from two days ago when you told him Hood was down there? He completely forgot that he'd asked Luke to summon his former Captain — in a matter of only a few hours." Rhiannon pointed out.

"True, but he's hyper focused on Locksley — just as he was in ninety four. I can hope he's forgotten, but my pragmatic side is warning me."

"I see. Alright." Rhiannon nodded. Then she stepped away and concealed herself.

Guy stood at the door, and within a few moments the door opened. Nottingham stepped out and closed the door behind him.

"Good day, Milord. Should you be leaving your chambers?" Guy asked, disguising his voice and keeping his head down.

"What? Who are you supposed to be? My keeper? Funny. I thought you were the sentry assigned to door duty." Nottingham remarked, facetiously.

"Indeed, Milord Sheriff. Forgive me. I thought… you weren't well." Guy muttered.

"Let's get something straight right now. This is my castle, and I am your Sheriff. You work for me. I have duties to perform, as do you. Your job is to guard my door. Nothing more. You're not here to interrogate me. Is that clear?" he said, sharply.

"Indeed, Milord. Forgive me. I misspoke."

Nottingham looked upon him for a moment, shaking his head. Then, he began to walk away toward the direction of the staircase, his black leather surcoat billowing behind him as he moved.

Guy waited for a few moments so as not to follow him too closely, then he moved to the alcove where Rhiannon waited. He passed the helm to her.

"Stay here for now, Lady Rhiannon. I'll try to get him back here." Guy instructed.

"You better take this with you." Rhiannon said. She reached into the pocket of her skirt and extracted the vial of belladonna, passing it to him. "If he's going to the Council Quarters, theres a pitcher of water on the table with some goblets. You could try putting the drops in his water goblet."

"I'll see what I can do." Guy said as he took the vial.

"I don't know how he's suddenly got the energy for this, Sir Guy." Rhiannon said softly, shaking her head.

"Nor do I, but I'll bring him back to his chambers somehow. He looked like he was dressed to leave the castle, though. Curses!" Guy muttered.

"You must stop him, then." Rhiannon said.

Guy nodded then took his leave.

After he left, Rhiannon let herself into the private chambers. There was something she needed from the bedchamber. She quickly grabbed the item, then left the chambers.

A short time later she was knocking on the door of the Gisborne's chambers.

"Rhiannon, what are you doing? Has he not awakened yet?" Meridwyn asked, puzzled to see her so soon.

"Oh, he's awake. He's already up and has left the chambers. Your husband is hot on his heels. I don't have a role to play as yet. We shall see once Sir Guy, hopefully, manages to bring him back to his rooms." Rhiannon said.

"Alright. Come in, then. If Guy can manage to redirect him we don't want him seeing you here. God knows that would raise suspicion." Meridwyn said as she held the door open for her.

"I'm not coming in just now, Meridwyn. I just came to bring you this. Can you put it on the sofa where I've been resting?" Rhiannon said as she passed the folded blanket to her.

"Strange. I thought the blanket was a prop or something similar." Meridwyn said as she took it from her. Then she looked up at her and narrowed her eyes curiously. "Wait. Did you… take this from his bedchamber?"

"I did." Rhiannon smiled.

"What? Will he not notice it's missing? Are you trying to set him off, Rhiannon?"

"Of course not. But, I need something to warm me, and remind me of him. His… scent is on this." Rhiannon muttered.

"For crying out loud, Rhiannon! Now is not the time to behave like a smitten young girl." Meridwyn huffed.

"Just do it for me, Meridwyn. I shall return… soon."

"Very well. But, you're playing with fire. He's going to have a fit, thinking someone stole his blanket from his bedchamber." Meridwyn sighed.

"He'll be too busy sleeping with Queen Belladonna to notice anything. Trust me." Rhiannon smirked.

Meridwyn stood a moment, stunned and shaking her head as she watched her friend confidently walk away.

At this time, Robert was meeting with the Scribe in the Council Quarters.

"You summoned, Robert?"

"Yes. I forgot to ask you. I realize this is unusually late to be inquiring, but, it's been a… weighty couple of days." Robert sighed.

"What is it?"

"Did Diego Florez see you on Wednesday after the steel delivery?"

"Yes. I took care of it." the Scribe nodded.

"He, in fact, brought us two shipments, Scribe. He'll be returning in January with the next one." Robert said.

"Yes. I paid him for both. He explained that to me." the Scribe said.

"Good. And, he left the gift from Herrero with you? The wedding gift?"

"Yes."

"He said he was leaving something with you for one of the Sheriff's men, as well?" Robert asked.

"Yes. He left something for Officer Luke." the Scribe smiled.

"Wasn't that kind of him? Rather unusual, too… I imagine."

"It is unusual, but Diego explained they've had some friendly chats at the portcullis on previous visits. I suppose I'm not too surprised, since they're both quite affable. He brought Luke a lovely plant." the Scribe smiled.

"Interesting. Did Luke receive it yet?" Robert asked.

"Yes. He picked it up after he dined with the men late Wednesday evening."

"Splendid." Robert smiled.

"Is Milord feeling a bit better yet? Not that I'm complaining. It's a nice change having you in charge."

"I think so. Pehaps in the next day or two he'll be ready to resume his duties." Robert said.

The Scribe only knew the Sheriff had been injured, from the bits he learned from listening to some of the servants commenting about the medicus dropping by frequently to the Sheriff's quarters. Robert didn't say a word about it, but he knew the Scribe would know something was awry since the Sheriff hadn't been seen by many of his staff since Monday.

"That's good to hear." the Scribe nodded.

Just then, the door flew open, and the Sheriff strode into the meeting chamber.

Robert looked to the Scribe and began to whisper, unobtrusive to the Sheriff.

"I'll explain this later, but, work with me. Follow my lead." Robert instructed.

The Scribe nodded, then he looked to the Sheriff who stood before them with his arms folded.

"Scribe. Tell me. Who the bleeding hell is he?" Nottingham demanded as he nodded toward Robert.

"Uh… yes, Milord." the Scribe stammered.

"The hell kind of an answer is — "

"Robert, Milord Sheriff. I'm new to the armoury." Robert said, as he turned around to face him.

The Scribe swung his head toward Robert and narrowed his eyes, curiously.

"Well, isn't that fascinating? That you would be working in my armoury and I was unaware of it… until now. Right. And, what are you doing meeting with my Scribe?" he asked, pointedly.

"He… uh… came to see me about the steel shipment that came from Spain on Wed — " the Scribe stopped himself as he observed the Sheriff's eyes widen, suddenly realizing that perhaps there was something more wrong with the Sheriff than a simple injury? He didn't recognize Robert!

"What?" he asked slowly. "A shipment of steel — from Spain? What the hell are you nattering about, you cursed little ferret! I'm quite certain I would know if I brokered a deal with some bloke way the hell over in Spain about steel, don't you think?" Nottingham bellowed.

It was… a gift to you, Milord." Robert lied, hoping his idea would work.

"Pardon?" he asked through gritted teeth. "A gift from whom?"

"It came from Señor Maximus Herrero, Milord Sheriff. He sent it with his associate, Diego Florez." Robert said.

"What? I don't know either of them. Why would this Maximus bloke send me a gift? I don't know the man, and I've certainly never had time to journey to Spain." he pressed.

"In solidarity of your mission, Milord. Spanish steel is known to be very strong and durable." Robert said.

"Oh. And, how the hell did someone in Spain hear of my mission? I'm dying to hear this one." he remarked, facetiously.

"I gather the stories of the problems in the shire have somehow travelled, Milord." Robert said with a shrug.

"Interesting. So, it's true about the steel being strong?"

"Indeed, Milord. I think you'll be pleased with the results." Robert nodded.

"Let us hope." Nottingham muttered.

Just then, Guy entered into the meeting room.

"You're back already. I thought you and your men would be hunting that cursed hooded viper we're after?" Nottingham remarked with a sneer.

The Scribe stifled a gasp. Was the Sheriff referring to Robin of Locksley? Those were the exact words he often used to describe Hood three years ago!

"We just returned, Cousin." Guy said.

Nottingham looked to the Scribe and Robert and dismissed them. They exited the chamber, closing the door, leaving the men to their privacy.

"So, did you find anything yet?" the Sheriff asked.

"Not as yet. We're going to head into Sherwood on the morrow." Guy said, grateful that it seemed his cousin had forgotten their conversation two days prior about Locksley.

"Why? Do you think he might be there?"

"Yes. That's what we gathered from reports of people who had travelled on the Great North Way through the forest. Some encountered thieves, Milord." Guy said.

"Cursed little oaf and his band of minions! Even people in Spain have heard about it." he huffed.

"Cousin?"

"That man with the Scribe a moment ago works in the armoury. The Scribe mentioned something about a steel shipment from Spain. Turns out, some bloke by the name of Maximus Herrero sent us a gift of Spanish steel." the Sheriff said with a smirk.

"How… thoughtful of him, Cousin." Guy said as he looked downcast, concealing a grin.

"Isn't it?"

"Indeed. I'm sure the steel will be most useful."

"Sure, Gis. Too bad your men are not." Nottingham sighed with a roll of his eyes.

"Aye, Cousin." Guy muttered as he looked downcast in feigned embarrassment.

"Are you at liberty to explain what just happened in the Council Quarters, Robert?" the Scribe asked.

The two were standing together in the corridor of the main floor. Both were alarmed after witnessing the Sheriff's bizarre behaviour. Even though he was informed of it, Robert still found it a bit jarring — and haunting, to see him like this.

"It seems he… hit his head a few days ago. It's… altered him a little." Robert said.

"Oh, I see. A most unfortunate situation."

"Indeed. And, not a word of this to anyone. Only a select few know — those closest to him. You only know because he showed it to you." Robert warned with a knowing quirk of his brow.

"Very well." the Scribe nodded.

"Privacy is important to him. We must abide by his wishes. Everything is being done to restore him to normal. Just stay out of his way, as will I, and we'll leave the treatment plan to the professionals." Robert said.

"Yes. You mean the medicus?" the Scribe asked.

"Indeed. And, those assisting him in the endeavour to… heal Milord's memory."

"I see."

"That's all I will say about this. You are sworn to secrecy, and advised to stay out of his way." Robert said firmly.

"Understood. Very well, Robert." the Scribe nodded.

"Now, just one more question." Robert began.

"Very well. What is it?"

"Does anyone around here actually know your name? Or, does everyone just call you "Scribe"?" Robert asked, completely surprising him.

"I'm sure I introduced myself to Milord Sheriff when he interviewed me years ago, but he and everyone else call me "Scribe"."

"Well, that's ridiculous. Might I ask… what is your name?"

"It is Percival Peveril." the Scribe said.

"It's nice to finally meet you, Percival." Robert smiled.

In the Council Quarters, the Sheriff was contemplating a few ideas as he looked out of the window for a moment. There were two goblets and a pitcher of water in the center of the table. Guy used the opportunity to take the vial from his doublet pocket. He quickly unscrewed the cap and dispensed two drops in one goblet. Then he safely tucked the vial away and poured water into the other goblet. He took the goblet of water and began to sip it.

The Sheriff whirled around to face him.

"Has he, or any of his motley crew of followers been seen today? At all?" he asked.

"No. Not today, Cousin. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to venture into Sherwood on the morrow." Guy said.

"Because, you surmised it was he and his rabble who were robbing the travellers." Nottingham said.

He walked to the table and picked up the pitcher, pouring water into the lone goblet placed there. Then, he picked up the goblet and began to drink from it.

Guy noticed and attempted to conceal the satisfied grin on his face.

"Aye, Cousin. Who else could they be? The only troublesome thieves we're aware of who are running amuck are Hood and his men." Guy said.

"Indeed. Haven't heard of any others. Zeus knows they are enough to deal with." he said as he took a few more swallows of the water.

"Indeed, Cousin."

"Right. Where is Nic, then?" Nottingham asked pointedly.

"I think… he went with… Gregor to accompany him as he collected taxes." Guy lied, suddenly realizing he should have thought of a different excuse.

"Interesting. Since when does Gregor need my Captain's assistance to collect taxes?"

"Gregor mentioned… wanting reinforcement. Nic offered."

"Without clearing it with me first?"

"I suppose he… didn't think it would be a problem, Cousin." Guy muttered.

"Nic works for me, not Gregor, the tax collector!" he exclaimed.

"Indeed, Cousin."

"Well, isn't that just perfect! Hood and his malefactors are hiding Zeus knows where, and my Captain is running around with the tax collector. Not to mention these new staff people who keep turning up — Lyle, the sentry on door duty at my chambers; a no name sentry who also mans my door, but is as timid as a bloody door mouse; the verbose, ultra confidant servant; and another one who works in the armoury." a beat. "Who the hell hired these people, Gis? Because, it certainly was not me!" Nottingham demanded.

"You did hire them, Cousin." Guy said.

"I think I would know if I had." he said firmly, then took another swallow of water.

"You were injured a few days ago, Cousin. That's why everything has been… fuzzy ever since."

"Fuzzy? It's like being stuck in a cursed nightmare!" he spat.

Indeed, it is,Cousin. You don't know the half of it. Guy thought.

"Who the hell are these people, Gis? And, why do they all act as if they know me — quite well?" Nottingham demanded.

"What do you mean?"

"Each of the new staff I just listed. Do pay attention! Every one of them act as if they are quite familiar with me, but I don't know any of them from a hole in the ground. And then, to top it all off, I find out I'm famous in Spain — of all places, and some bloke I've never heard of is sending me a gift. A generous one, at that. Which begs the question — what does he want in return?" a beat. "There seems to be a lot of things not adding up around here. I don't know what the bleeding hell is going on, but I'm going to get to the bottom of it."

I wish you would. Sometime soon would be nice. Guy thought.

"Of course, Cousin. I understand your frustration, but the fact remains you were injured a few days ago. It was grave for awhile there. That is the reason you're not remembering hiring these people you mentioned." Guy said.

"You're telling me I actually did hire them?"

"I am, Milord."

"Well, that's insanity. And, it's equally as mad that I don't recall being supposedly injured."

"You were injured. You've seen the bandage yourself."

"Indeed. All of it is like a cursed game!" Nottingham spat.

He finished the water in his goblet then placed it on the table before taking a seat in one of the chairs.He put his hand to his lower left side.

"Curses!" he muttered.

"Cousin? Are you alright?" Guy asked.

"I'm certainly feeling the injury now. And, my… eyelids growing heavy. I was planning to ride into the Village. Curses!"

"Perhaps we should — "

"Why would I be feeling tired already? What the hell is going on, Gis?" Nottingham demanded.

"You lost quite a bit of blood, Cousin. You're still healing. I know you don't believe it, but it's the truth of it." Guy said.

"I'm going to my chambers." he muttered as he arose from his chair.

"I'll walk with you." Guy suggested.

"I don't need — "

"It's just a walk, Cousin."

"Fine. Whatever."

As they were approaching the Sheriff's door a short time later, Gisborne looked left into the alcove and nodded to Rhiannon. She looked at him with a bewildered expression, wondering why they took some time to return.

Guy followed him inside and stood in the den.

"It's not necessary for you to be here, Gis. I've survived this long without hand holding. I'm sure I can manage it now." Nottingham sneered.

"Of course, Milord. You looked quite sleepy, though."

"Satan's teeth! Fine. I'm going to my bedchamber to toss my surcoat and splash water on my face. Then, you're dismissed."

"Very well."

Nottingham strode toward the bedchamber, entered inside and closed the doors behind him. After some time had passed he startled Guy by angrily throwing the doors open. He stood before him with fury in his amber hazel eyes, and his jaw set in anger.

"Cousin?" Guy asked.

"Can I not trust anyone in this castle, Gis?"

"What is the matter, Cousin?"

"Some sodding wastrel has stolen a blanket right off of my bed! What the bleeding hell is happening around here? What next? Will I wake up and find my sword missing, or the dagger that's kept in these rooms?" the Sheriff demanded.

"I'm sure there's an innocent explanation for the blank — "

"And, another thing. Where was the mousey sentry who was guarding my door when I left? There is no one guarding my door now, Gis. Peculiar, don't you think?"

"Perhaps he stepped away for a moment, Cousin? I'll have a word with him as I leave. Is there anything else you might require?"

"Yes. Find that servant who's been coming by the last few days."

"Very well." Guy nodded, then took his leave.

A few moments later he was grabbing the helm from Rhiannon.

"You're up next." Guy said.

"What on earth took so long?" Rhiannon whispered.

"He was planning to leave the castle, but he stopped in the Council Quarters. He was speaking to Robert and the Scribe when I arrived."

"What?"

"Robert must have smoothed it over when my cousin met him. He thinks Robert is just a new bloke working in the armoury. Except, he's frustrated he doesn't remember hiring him — and a few others."

"I see. Did he take the belladonna?"

"Yes. Two drops in his water goblet. He'll likely be out soon."

"Very well. You best announce me, then." Rhiannon sighed.

"Indeed." Guy nodded.

He put the helm on, tucking his hair into it, then went to the door and knocked. Rhiannon stood beside him, waiting.

In moments the door opened.

"The servant you requested is here, Milord." Guy said, keeping his head down.

"Well, that's just grand." Nottingham sighed. He looked to Rhiannon for a moment. "Give me a moment, Miss. I've a question for my sentry."

"Shall I step away, Milord?" she asked.

"No need for that." he replied, then he looked to Gisborne. "I returned here a short while ago with my Lieutenant. Where the hell were you?"

"I stepped away for a moment, Milord."

"Stepped away to do what? You were supposed to be guarding the door. Because of you, something was taken from my rooms!"

Rhiannon stiffened and looked downcast. She didn't think he would notice.

Maybe you should have locked your stupid door! Guy thought.

"Well? Still waiting on your answer. So far, I'm hearing nothing."

"There was a commotion down the hall. I went to see what it was about." Guy lied.

"Enlighten me, then. What was the commotion?"

"It was… the Page and another young lad. Hildith's son. They were chasing each other." Guy lied. "I told them to tone it down. They went on their way, and I returned. I was gone only a few moments, Milord. That is all." he said as he kept his head low.

"Next time, have someone else deal with it." Nottingham warned.

"Of course, Milord." Guy nodded. Next time, you should just lock the damn door!

"You're to remain at your post, until Lyle comes to take over. Got it?"

"Yes, Milord."

"Good." The Sheriff sighed. He looked to Rhiannon. "Alright… Emma. You may enter now."

Rhiannon sighed.

"As you wish, Milord." she nodded as she walked past Guy and stepped through the threshold.

He closed the door and she looked at him quizzically, wondering what he needed her for.

"It seems someone has taken a blanket from my bedchamber. Would you know anything about that?"

"Yes, Milord." she parried as she tried to think of some excuse.

"Well? Where could it possibly be? I couldn't find it anywhere."

"It was taken… to be… laundered, Milord Sheriff." Rhiannon said.

"Really? Without checking with me first?"

"Aye, Milord. It seemed… something had been spilled on it."

"Well, isn't that peculiar? It seemed clean to me."

"It will be returned to you as soon as it is dried, Milord."

"I see. Well, Anna, I'm going to need another blanket until mine is returned to me. It's getting rather chill of late. It's easier than having to wake every couple of hours to tend to a fire overnight. When I sleep I prefer to stay asleep."

"Of course, Milord. I shall bring you another blanket." she nodded, then opened the door.

"Good. And, next time, check with me first before you take items out of here to launder them. Got it?"

"Understood, Milord." she nodded, then she exited the chambers.

After the door was closed, Guy looked at her curiously.

"What did he want? I thought he'd be off to dreamland by now?" Guy asked.

"Have you an extra blanket in your chambers, Sir Guy?" she asked.

"Probably. Is that what he wanted to see you about?"

"Yes."

"I don't know why he didn't bother to lock the damn — "

"I took the blanket, Sir Guy." she admitted.

"Why would you do that?"

"His… scent is on it. I thought… it might help me to sleep better." Rhiannon sighed.

"I see." Guy smiled.

"You think this is funny, I suppose."

"No. Actually, it's rather endearing. It's… nice to know he has a lady who cares for him the way you do." a beat. "Don't worry about it, Lady Rhiannon. I'll fetch another blanket from my chambers. You wait here. I'll return in moments."

Rhiannon waited for Guy impatiently in the alcove nearby. She was concerned her betrothed would open the door, wondering what was taking so long, and of course, he would be frustrated to see the sentry was absent. Timing for everything had to be perfect. At times it was an overwhelming task to attempt to keep up with. She sighed and looked to the floor, her back against the wall, hoping her betrothed would snap out of this phase soon.

Finally, Gisborne arrived. He passed a folded blanket to Rhiannon.

"Hopefully, this will satisfy him." Guy said.

"It will have to. He's not in a position to be choosy." Rhiannon said as she took it from him.

"I saw the one you took from his bedchamber. Meridwyn has it on the sofa for you. I can see why you wanted it. Besides the reason you stated, it looks kind of… fluffy." Guy smirked.

"I'm the one who is often chilled. I'm still surprised he noticed it was missing." Rhiannon shrugged.

"Hopefully he won't mind that this one is sub par to the blanket he is without." Guy said, nodding to the blanket.

"I'm hoping that Queen Belladonna is beginning to work her magic. Then he won't mind at all." Rhiannon smiled.

"Indeed." Guy nodded.

A few moments later she was back inside the private chambers. The Sheriff looked at the blanket in her arms and frowned.

"It certainly doesn't appear as warm and soft as the one that was taken to be laundered." he muttered.

"I'm sure you'll find it satisfactory, Milord." Rhiannon smiled.

"Hardly." he sighed. "But, It will have to do. Fine. Place it on the bed, Anna."

"Very well." Rhiannon sighed.

She went into the bedchamber and began the task of placing it atop the other linens on the bed. When she finished she straightened up and turned to take leave but was startled to find he was standing just a few feet from her, observing her.

"Is that to your liking, Milord?" she asked, nodding to the bed behind her.

"It's fine." he said.

"This room is becoming chill with the dampness coming in. Your best bet would be to have the fire lit in the fireplace, Milord. I'll take care of it, if you like." Rhiannon suggested.

"There's really no need for that, Miss. I'll do that later tonight. The blanket will be fine." he said.

"You're looking rather sleepy now, Milord. You sure you wouldn't like me to take care of that? It will only take me a moment."

"I'm sure. There's no need to keep pressing the issue."

"As you wish, Milord." she nodded then began to walk past him to let herself out.

"Wait." he called out to her.

She stopped, then turned to face him before reaching the doors of the bedchamber.

"Yes, Milord?"

"Where did you come from, anyway? How did you end up here?"

"Milord?"

"You're not at all like the other servants. You're learned. Well read. You suddenly appeared at the strangest of times." he said as he moved in closer to her. He began to slowly circle her as he continued. "You see, some would call that a coincidence. I don't believe in coincidences, Emma. Do you follow, or do I need to spell it out for you?" he asked, facetiously.

"Whatever are you implying, Milord?" she asked, genuinely bewildered.

"Who sent you? Whom are you working for?" he demanded.

"I work for you, Milord Sher — "

"Bollocks! I would remember hiring you! I did no such thing. You're a spy, but sent by whom? Did Locksley put you up to this?" he demanded as he stopped right in front of her, staring into her eyes with his piercing gaze.

"Not at all, Milord." she said, unblinking.

"That sling you were wearing recently — it was a prop, wasn't it? To garner my sympathy! That cursed little whelp will stoop to any level to attempt to trick me!"

"It was no trick, Milord. My shoulder had been dislocated in a fall. A medicus fixed the problem, but, I needed to keep it stabilized with a sling for a few days." Rhiannon said.

"The medicus here in town? My personal physician?" he asked, his eyes narrowed, suspiciously.

"No, Milord. It was the medicus in Clun."

"Bah! Nothing good ever came out of Clun! You better watch that your arm doesn't fall off, Missy — if you are being truthful, that is."

"I am, Milord."

"What… kind of a fall?"

"I… fell from my horse, Milord." she said, then looked downcast.

"I see." he nodded.

"It's fine now, Milord. It still aches a little, but it's better now."

"Right." he sighed.

"Indeed." she nodded.

"How is it I'd never laid eyes on you until this peculiar malaise cropped up on Wednesday? Where were you before then?"

Right here, George. With you. Every day for six months -- minus the times you were chasing after criminals. Why can't you remember me? Even now, as you stare into my eyes? You see nothing. You can't see past your own confusion! Rhiannon thought. She looked downcast and sighed, then looked up and met his gaze again.

"I do not know, Milord. I remember it, though. I only work for you. I am not a spy." she said.

"Right. So you say." a beat. "How come you're not married?"

"II shall be once my paramour returns to me. I just… don't know when that will be." she muttered and looked downcast.

"You don't sound too hopeful about it." he remarked.

"It is what it is." she shrugged.

"There's no one, is there? A paramour, I mean."

"That's none of your concern, respectfully, Milord."

"Isn't it? When he returns and you marry him, then you'll be leaving your duties here, will you not?"

"I… suppose." she muttered.

He reached out and placed his hands upon her shoulders.

"Is he real, or is this just a tale you're regaling me with?" he asked.

"Oh, he's real." she said as she gazed into his eyes, unblinking. "I'll never give up on him. I wish he could see it, and that he wouldn't give up on us, too." she said resolutely, then looked downcast.

He looked upon her a moment with his eyes narrowed curiously, rather startled by her words. Then he removed his hands from her shoulders when she broke eye contact.

"I see. You shall give me notice when this wedding of yours is taking place. If you plan to leave here, then l shall need a new servant."

At this rate, the wedding will never happen. Not until you snap out of it, George!

"Of course, Milord." she nodded.

"Right. Very well. Thank you, Anna. That is all." he said, dismissing her.

She nodded in obeisance to him then swiftly left the chambers.

Once outside the door she leaned her back against the wall beside the door, hung her head and took some deep breaths.

"Are you alright, Lady Rhiannon?" Guy asked.

"My sister in law was right. I need a break from this cursed nightmare!" she huffed.

"Milady?"

"It's too difficult to endure at times. Next time he wakes, Isabelle can be the servant if he requires one. Emma and Anna are taking a much needed reprieve." she sighed.

"Noted. I'll escort you back to my — "

"There's no need, Sir Guy. I can manage. You best stay here in case he steps out. He will wonder why there's no one manning the door."

"As you wish. Try not to lose hope, Milady. Although, I can't imagine what just happened to upset you. Besides… obviously, getting your name wrong."

"Trying to keep up with this charade is exhausting!" Rhiannon exclaimed in a whisper.

"Indeed. I agree."

"He's no fool. We both know it. So, he's starting to question things, and coming up with the most preposterous answers in his own mind." Rhiannon sighed.

"Can you give me an example? He obviously said something to knock you off kilter."

"He asked whom I was working for. Accused me of being a spy. Wanted to know if Locksley put me up to this, because he said he found it peculiar he'd never seen me before until Wednesday." Rhiannon said.

"That seems right on point for him. Whether it was three years ago, or in the current time, that is exactly what he would say… except, he wouldn't mention Locksley in the current time." Guy sighed.

"Yes, I would agree. Trying to build some form of trust with him is daunting. I mean, how much trust does one place in their servants, anyway?"

"Servants still need to be vetted, Milady. If he was hiring one he'd want to know if they'd ever been accused of stealing, for instance."

"Of course. I understand that. It's just… difficult. On the one hand, he looks the same. He's recognizable that way. But, even trying to talk to him is taking a toll because he looks at me as if I'm a stranger who magically appeared out of nowhere only two days ago."

"I understand."

"Do you? He knows you, Sir Guy." Rhiannon pointed out.

"True, but we had a different relationship three years ago. We've grown closer the last couple of years. Sadly, he doesn't know it right now." Guy said.

"Hmm. I suppose I have noticed how curt and abrupt he's been with you the last couple of days. I've never noticed him speak to you that way before."

"Yes, because that stopped. A long time ago. It's like being stuck in the past right along with him, when I had managed to forget about all of that." Guy sighed.

"I'm honestly not sure what to do anymore, Sir Guy. This can't go on. It's insanity!"

"I know. Something's got to give, and it had better happen soon." Guy agreed.

Late in the afternoon, Drake and Luke strolled into the local tavern to see if they could gather any information about the escaped prisoner. Perhaps he had been seen here in recent days? They would take a look around, order some ale, and see what comes up.

"I'm not sure if we should be here, Drake. The Captain didn't say anything about coming here to check on things." Luke muttered.

"Are you jesting, mate? It's the perfect place to search, and gather information." a beat. "What has gotten into you, Luke? You haven't been yourself for a couple of days now. Does this have anything to do with that maiden, Flower? The one you rescued on Saturday evening?" Drake asked curiously.

Floria! Curses! With all of the confusion going on, I haven't checked in on her in days! Luke thought. He sighed and looked downcast.

"Luke?"

"There's nothing going on, Drake. I haven't seen Floria for days. I think she's been kept rather busy."

"Right. The wedding is fast approaching. Isn't she helping with Lady Rhiannon's gown?"

"Yes." Luke nodded.

"Funny. You've been looking quite fatigued the last few days — even though you've been quite alert, and jumpy at times. I assumed you were busy making merry with her late into the evenings." Drake remarked.

"No. I honestly haven't seen her. Just been having a… bit of trouble sleeping lately." Luke said.

He wished he could tell Drake the real reason he was fatigued. He was almost working double time. Late at night was when he would take over from Sir Gisborne. It was usually anywhere from two to four hours, but then he would have difficulty falling asleep afterward.

He kept thinking about the change in his employer, and wondering when the Sheriff he knew would emerge from the cursed state he was in. If this kept up, would more of his men be informed? The Prince was expected to come for the wedding. If there was no change in a few days, the wedding would be called off; and how long before Prince John clued in that the Sheriff was unfit to perform his duties? How long before the Sheriff, a man whom Luke had come to respect, would be stripped of his title? What would happen then?

"Maybe you should actually swallow a couple of swigs of the ale we'll be ordering, mate. You're wound up as tight as a harp string. Looks like you need it." Drake advised.

"Indeed." Luke sighed.

They made their way to the bar, and Drake ordered two mugs of ale. The barman nodded and took care of it expediently, placing the mugs on the bar before them. Drake placed some coins on the bar for him.

"We've been looking for a friend of ours. His name is Hamon. He's short, kind of rotund, with balding ginger hair. You haven't seen him around here, have you?" Drake asked.

"No. I'd remember him if I had. There was someone different working the last couple of days, however. Maybe he turned up then?"

"I see. Thank you." Luke said, as he took a small sip of the ale.

The barman nodded and moved away to serve another group of patrons.

"He's been here. You've just missed him." a woman's voice said, breaking through the cacophony of the tavern.

Drake and Luke looked to their right. The raven haired woman who had stopped by the castle just over a sennight previous demanding to see the Sheriff, and whom Drake and Adam had seen on Tuesday afternoon was seated there right beside Drake.

"Fancy seeing you, Miss? Again." Drake said.

"Interesting place for a lady. Especially one whom is obviously not a courtesan. Or… are you?" Luke remarked with narrowed, suspicious eyes.

"Please! I've better things to pass my time with then satisfying the whims of perverse men." Lady Gunilda scoffed.

"Then… what are you doing here?" Luke asked.

"Following my nose." she said, simply.

"Ma'am? Are you going to actually drink anything?" the barman asked, suddenly appearing before them.

"Oh. Right. I'd like a goblet of blackberry juice, if you please." she smiled.

"Blackberry juice. What do you think this is, Madam? A crèche?" the barman chuckled.

"I only imbibe in the company of those I trust." she smirked.

"I'll have a look in the back, but I'm not sure if — "

"If you do find such a refreshment for her, I shall pay for it." Drake said as he placed more coins on the bar.

The barman nodded and went on his way.

"What did you mean a moment ago when you said you were following… your nose, Miss?" Luke asked curiously, while he took a small sip of ale from his mug.

"You may have noticed that I don't fit the cookie cutter mould of most women in the Village. I have certain… gifts, you see. Your friend here was knocking on the door of my… cottage a few days ago, with the other one whom I'd met at the portcullis last week. They told me about the man you're trying to find." a beat. "Isn't that right, Sir?" she said, addressing Drake.

"Yes, Madam." Drake nodded.

"Your cottage? But… I thought you were visiting from Derbyshire?" Luke asked.

"I was, but now I've decided to stay. My uncle was the previous owner. He recently passed away and left me his cottage, the land, and everything that goes with it." she explained.

"Interesting. So, what does any of this have to do with your nose, and whatever this gift is of yours, Miss?" Luke asked.

"Well, I've been keeping my eyes open for him, too. Turns out, I didn't need to use my eyes." Gunilda said as she leaned in closer to the men. "I could smell him. A mile away." she whispered with her eyebrow quirked, knowingly.

"What? What are you on about, Madam?" Luke asked.

"Indeed, mate. I must admit — this is a new one." Drake said with a shake of his head.

"I was taking a walk earlier. My nose led me here. Ordinary people wouldn't notice, but I could. A vile odour. Like brine and overly fermented wine mixed together. The scent of… arrogance and fear all combined into one… among other unmentionable character traits." Gunilda said with a quirk of her brow.

"You cannot be serious!" Drake chuckled.

"Oh! Indeed, I am."

"Great! Then… where is he? I don't see him around, oddly." Luke snorted.

"He was here, but he has obviously left. I stopped by to see if I could see him. I was just about to leave when I noticed you two sitting here."

"And, what was your plan once you found him, Madam?" Luke asked.

"I was going to head to the castle and report it, of course."

"Really?" Drake asked.

"Of course. Look, I'm not sure what he is wanted for, but I can already tell he's a typical malefactor. We don't need people like him in the Village." Gunilda said.

"Interesting. Forgive me. I'm having a hard time believing this." Luke sighed.

"Naturally, because it goes against everything you understand to be true. Some things cannot be explained." a beat. "That's where I come in." she smirked.

"So… you're a witch, then?" Drake whispered.

"I don't know if I'd go that far. I have certain abilities that are misunderstood and can't be explained by… regular people such as yourselves." Gunilda shrugged.

"And, you were honestly planning to report to us if you had found him?" Luke asked.

"Yes. You men would be more fit to handle him than I would. I've enough to contend with." she hinted.

Just then, the barman returned.

"Turns out you're in luck, Madam. We did have blackberry juice in the back." he said as he placed the chilled goblet on the bar before her.

"Marvellous." she nodded. Then she turned to Drake. "Thank you, Sir."

"Of course, Madam." Drake smiled.

"What is it you have to contend with, if I may ask?" Luke inquired after the barman left them.

"Well, that's actually something I should like to speak with the Sheriff about. Could one of you run that by him? Perhaps he could fit me in prior to his wedding day?"

"Oh, boy… " Luke muttered.

Drake turned to his left, looking at Luke, strangely. Then, he turned back to face her and barely got the words out when he was interrupted.

"I will see — "

"This is fascinating, Miss. Why would you think the Sheriff would be interested in meeting with you? You see, I got the distinct impression that he was none too impressed by your first meeting with him — and, I'm not being funny about it." Luke said.

Drake swung his head to the left, looking to his comrade.

"Mate, what in the devil are you doing?" Drake whispered.

"That may be, but what I need to share with him will interest him greatly." a beat. "I can promise you that." Lady Gunilda remarked, confidently.

"Well, I'm sure we could arrange something." Drake said.

"Yes, we could, but… he's been very busy of late." Luke said.

"It's important I meet with him." Gunilda said.

"I'll see what I can do, Miss." Drake nodded.

"So, if we're to believe what you just told us, you don't think he could have left the vicinity?" Luke asked.

"You mean the criminal you're looking for?"

Luke nodded.

"No. He hasn't left. He's around. As I said, I can smell him. He's getting cagey as he tries to stay hidden. He's got a plan, but he's inpatient." Gunilda said, matter of factly, completely stunning them both.

"And, how would you know that, Miss?" Luke pressed.

"Because I have other abilities. I can see images, and sometimes pick up on emotions. He's somewhere in the area. I couldn't say precisely where, but, you'll find him." Gunilda said as she sipped of the blackberry juice.

It was a few hours past sundown when Guy and Lady isabelle, who we're seated in the den of the Sheriff's private chambers, heard some rustling noises coming from the bedchamber.

"Oh, my. What do we do now?" Isabelle asked, a bit trepidatious to finally face the Sheriff.

"Follow me. We're going to head outside the door." Guy said. "Grab the decanter and the goblet on your way out."

Isabelle nodded. She watched Gisborne pick up a helm that had been placed on a table beside where he had sat. She grabbed the decanter and the goblet from a nearby table and followed him out of the door. He showed her the alcove to hide away in, as he tucked his hair into the helm, placing it on his head.

Within a few moments the door opened.

"Where's Lyle? Isn't this the time he takes over?" Nottingham asked.

"He is on night duty, Milord. He will be here sometime later." Gisborne said, keeping his head low and his voice disguised.

How in the devil did he come up with that name? Lyle. I've never heard of anyone using a strange moniker like that. Guy pondered as he rolled his eyes.

"I see. Summon the servant for me. I've a few requests to convey."

"As you wish, Milord." Guy said.

The Sheriff nodded then closed the door.

Guy moved away from the door. He moved to the alcove, extracting the vial from his doublet pocket.

"Put two drops of this into the goblet now, Lady Isabelle. You won't be able to do it in his chambers without him noticing. The amount is too minuscule for him to notice it in the goblet." Guy instructed as he passed it to her.

"I see." Isabelle agreed. She took the vial and followed his directive, then passed it back to him.

"We'll give it a few moments, then I will announce you."

"Very well." Isabelle said as she took a few deep breaths. "Do not leave your post." she added. She was starting to feel warm and a bit lightheaded again. She didn't know why she'd been feeling so off of late, but she was silently cursing that it was rearing its ugly head now.

"Of course not. It will be alright, Milady Isabelle. Try not to fret."

"It was't that long ago I was his prisoner, Sir Gisborne. He was a little on the scary side when I first met him then. I… can't begin to imagine what he was like during the height of his infamy — when he was chasing after Robin Hood." Isabelle shuddered.

"Milady Isabelle? Should I go and get Lady Rhiannon?" Guy asked.

"Sir Gisborne?"

"Now would be the small window of time I could do that. Decide quickly, Milady."

"I appreciate the offer, but… no. I promised Rhiannon I would do this for her. When she returned the last time, I was there visiting Meridwyn in your chambers. She was exhausted. It was then she said she was most agreeable to my stepping in for her, saying that she needed some reprieve. I'm nervous, but, I will do this for her." Isabelle explained.

"Very well. You must get a hold of yourself, Milady. If you don't show fear, he cannot respond to it." Guy advised her.

"Alright. I guess I'm ready whenever you are." she sighed.

He nodded and motioned for her to follow him to the door.

He knocked and the door opened in moments.

"The servant is here to see you, Milord." Guy said as he motioned to Isabelle.

"Wait. Who are you? Another new member of my staff?" Nottingham demanded.

"Isabelle, Milord Sheriff. We've met before." she said, then looked downcast.

"Where is the one who usually comes by? Dark hair, green eyes. I think her name is Emma. Or, is it Anna?" he mused as he stroked his chin.

"It's her night off, Milord." Isabelle said.

"I see. Enter." he said as he held the door open for her.

Once the door was closed she walked over to the table where she'd taken them from moments ago, and placed the decanter of brandy and the goblet there.

"I was told you like to have a decanter of brandy ready for you, Milord." Isabelle said.

"Yes. I could use some of that." he said as he walked toward the table.

He poured a measure of brandy into the goblet, picked it up and began to sip of it. Then he whirled around to face her.

"So, when were you hired? Yet another new servant I don't ever remember encountering before now." Nottingham sighed, shaking his head.

"I'm not usually assigned to your chambers, Milord. Never on my own before now. I was hired about a month ago." Isabelle said.

"Do you know the one I mentioned? I can't remember her name. It's one of the names I mentioned, though."

"Oh, sure. She and Hildith trained me, Milord." Isabelle said, grateful that her sister in law had explained several details to her, including names of servants he knew, among other things, to get her through this challenge.

"Interesting. I could have sworn Emma said it was Hecate who trained her." the Sheriff said as his eyebrow shot north, suspiciously.

"That is true, Milord. In my case, it was she and Hildith who trained me." Isabelle said. She looked downcast and sighed, hoping this would be over soon.

"Right. Well, you may want to round a few of them up to assist you with my next request." he hinted.

"What is it you require, Milord Sheriff?" Isabelle asked.

"I need plenty of hot water brought into my bath chamber. I need the tub filled. I could use a good soak." Nottingham said.

"Uh… Milord? Is that… wise just now?"

"What do you mean — exactly?" he demanded.

"Well, Emma told me you'd been injured, Milord. Is it wise for you to submerge your wound in water?"

"That mouthy little — "

"It wasn't idle gossip, Milord. She knew I'd be taking over from her so she informed me that… you're not… quite yourself."

"I see. Well, Eleanor, wouldn't you think it would be more prudent to keep the wound clean, then to let it fester by not bathing?" he asked firmly, with a quirk of his brow.

"Yes. I suppose you're right, Milord." she nodded.

"Indeed." he said as he took a generous swig of the brandy.

"I'll get that sorted for you, Milord. I shall return shortly." she nodded, then left the chambers.

Once outside the door, she exhaled an audible sigh.

"Is he falling asleep?" Guy asked.

"Not yet. He's drinking the brandy now."

"I see. Is there something you need me to get for you? I'm guessing he has a task for you. Do you need a broom? Fresh linens?" Guy asked.

"He has a task for me, alright, but… not a simple one. He has requested I round up some other servants and bring buckets of hot water to his bath chamber. He wants to bathe, Sir Gisborne."

"What? Why must he be so bloody difficult?" Guy huffed.

"I don't know. I guess I got lucky." Isabelle shrugged.

"Well, you will need help with that task. I'll have to step away and alert some actual servants. When they come you will help them carry a bucket or two of hot water into his bath chamber." a beat. "Are you able for that, Milady? You've a… funny colour to your countenance just now." Guy said, concerned by what he was observing from her.

"I do?" Isabelle asked.

"Aye. It's sort of… pale with a tinge of… green?" Guy mused, curiously. He hoped she didn't have something he could catch.

"It's… nothing. Just… a few waves of… queasiness. It's been… like that since soon after the evening meal. It must have been something I ate." she shrugged. "I'm fit for the task, Sir Gisborne."

"Very well. I'll alert the servants, then I'll hand off the buckets to you right at the door." Guy said as he turned to take leave.

"Sir Gisborne?"

"Yes?" he asked as he turned to face her.

"You know, we should probably alert the medicus to this once he falls asleep. That wound on his lower belly is going to need to be redressed." Isabelle explained.

"You're right. I'll inform Thomas once we're sure he's asleep. You hide yourself in the alcove and I'll send for the servants to come." Guy directed as he began to take leave.

"Wait, Sir Gisborne."

He stopped, then turned around to face her.

"What is it?" he asked.

"The more I think on it, I don't know how we're going to make this work in a timely fashion?" Isabelle sighed.

"Why is that, Milady?"

"It would take a good hour to heat large quantities of water enough to use in a bath. By then, he's going to be either out cold, or far too sleepy to safely take a bath, Sir Gisborne." Isabelle explained.

"You'd be surprised. The servants expect this so they often have water heating and at the ready." Guy said.

"How so?"

"Between my wife and Lady Rhiannon, this is a common request for the servants from both of our chambers." Guy smiled.

"Oh, I see. Alright. Hopefully they have some water heating, then."

"I'll be on my way. I will return with the servants. Hide yourself before he sees you standing idle outside of his door."

Isabelle nodded and went back to the alcove.

It was nearly a half hour later when Gisborne returned with a couple of servants, assisting them by carrying two full buckets. He nodded to Isabelle as he followed the servants and passed by her. Isabelle stepped out of the alcove.

"This is Isabelle." Guy said to the two women as he nodded to her. "She's new. She'll follow you in with the two buckets I have here."

"If you say so, Sir Gisborne." the older, more experienced dark haired woman said.

"Where'd she come from?" the younger one asked the first woman. "Shouldn't we have met her by now, Hildith? And, how come she is exempt from carrying these heavy buckets of water as far as we had to?" the young blond maiden huffed.

"It matters not right now. We can make introductions and ask questions later." Hildith sighed.

Gisborne passed the buckets to Isabelle, then knocked on the door. He stepped away to allow the three women space.

The door opened promptly.

"Yes?" a beat. "Oh, good. You're finally here. Make haste before the water cools." Nottingham directed as he held the door for them.

Hildith and the younger servant were first to pour the water. Then they left and Isabelle went in with her two buckets and began to pour them into the tub. The Sheriff stood at the door, observing, but then his eyes noticed a bottle of something sitting on a shelf near the tub.

Isabelle finished pouring and was about to exit the bath chamber when he spoke.

"Wait. What do you suppose that is on the shelf there?" he asked, nodding toward it.

Isabelle turned to see what he was referring to. She set the buckets on the floor.

"I'm not sure, Milord?" she said. "There's a few items there. A sea sponge; looks like a worn down bar of soap; and whatever is in this bottle." she shrugged.

"I've never seen one of those items before. Bring me that curious bottle, Eleanor."

"Very well." she nodded.

Isabelle grabbed the clear bottle from the shelf. It was around six inches tall, and appeared to be filled with a viscous white liquid. She passed it to him. The Sheriff took it and uncapped it, then peered within, and sniffed of it.

"Satan's teeth! I don't know where this came from, but I can assure you — that is not mine." he said as he wrinkled his nose and frowned. He quickly capped it and passed it back to her.

"I don't understand?"

"Smell it. You'll know immediately that it's not meant for a man." he said with a quirk of his brow.

She nodded, and took the cap from the bottle. Then she brought it close to her nose and tentatively sniffed it. She began to smile, even though the scent was starting to make her feel a bit queasy.

"It's a lovely scent of roses." Isabelle remarked.

"Whatever! How it ended up in my bath chamber is a mystery. The last thing I need is to smell like flowers!" he huffed. "Get rid of it. And, anything else in here with a similar scent."

"I see another bottle of something on the table, Milord. It looks like water, though?" Isabelle said as she turned and reached for it.

She set the bottle with the white liquid down and picked up the other. She uncapped it. She sniffed it and knew immediately what it was. It was a hair rinse scented with roses and heather. Both of the bottles had to be Rhiannon's.

"What is it?" he asked.

"You won't like this either, Milord. It has a… floral fragrance, too. I think the first bottle you gave me is a type of soap. This fluid is more watery, though."

"I don't give a flying fig what either of them are. Get rid of them, Eleanor. I've no use for either of them, and I surely don't know how they ended up in my chambers — unless it's all part of this ridiculous japery that's been going on." he sneered.

"I don't know what you mean by japery, Milord. I'm not aware of any trickery going on — if there is any, but, I'll remove these items from your rooms at once." Isabelle said.

"Expediently, would be grand. The water is getting cold." he said with his arms folded.

"Indeed, Milord." Isabelle nodded. She grabbed the bottles and the two buckets then promptly left the chambers.

"How did it go in there?" Guy asked, nodding to the door when she exited.

"I'm sure he's getting into the bath right now." Isabelle said while placing the buckets on the floor. She grabbed the two bottles out of one of them.

"What's with those bottles?" Guy asked.

"They were found in the bath chamber. He asked me to get rid of them." Isabelle said.

"What's in them?"

"I think one is a type of soap. The other is a hair rinse, I believe. They're definitely Rhiannon's. I won't get rid of them. I'm giving them back to her."

"My wife uses a special rinse on her hair, too. I'm sure Lady Rhiannon will be glad to have those back." a beat. "How was he with you?" Guy asked, curiously.

"A little curt at times. He kept calling me "Eleanor"; but, except for that he was fine." Isabelle replied. She began to subconsciously fan herself, for she was feeling too warm again, and a little lightheaded.

"Are you alright, Lady Isabelle?"

"Yes. Just a little warm, for some reason. I'm fine."

"You should report straight to your bed after this. Perhaps a rest will do you good?" Guy suggested.

"I'm sure it will." she nodded.

"He didn't threaten you?"

"No. Thankfully. Would you expect him to?"

"He was hot tempered three years ago. Impulsive. A bit unpredictable. Frankly, I don't know what to expect of him of late, but we may need to change the plans somewhat in the coming days." Guy sighed.

"What do you mean, Sir Gisborne?" Isabelle asked.

"Time is passing quickly, Milady. In a few days time there will be nobles, their ladies, even the Prince shall be showing up for the auspicious occasion of his wedding. Those expected to attend never thought they'd see that day come. For many years, I was among them in that belief. Also, on Monday, is our Town Council meeting. I spoke to him on Tuesday evening about rescheduling that one. He insisted it go ahead as planned.

"He hasn't been seen by most of his staff since this past Monday. He has responsibilities that are important to him. Being the Sheriff of Nottingham isn't just an occupation, it is who he is, Lady Isabelle. The longer this goes on, his capability of continuing in his role will be called into question. We may all have to continue to accede to his fantastical whims in order to maintain appearances — until we can figure out another course of action." Guy explained.

"Oh, my. I hadn't… considered that, Sir Gisborne. I understand how that raises concerns." Isabelle said.

"Something has to give soon, or we might be faced with someone else entirely being appointed as the new Sheriff of Nottingham." Guy said sombrely, shaking his head.