the package

[Seer]

~he returns to his room...instantly he knows someone has been there...from the scent and...of course....from the pack on the bed...he stands there a moment eyes scanning...they are also drawn to a missive scribbled on a piece of paper on the desk...he walks over to the pack first...after all...it may be dangerous...he stares at it a moment...taking in everything...it does not look placed...it appears slung...relaxing a bit..he walks over to it...he opened the pack and looked inside....

what's this?

childrens toys?...he took a few out and looked at them...he didnt know any children....not in a sense that one would have brought their pack to his room..

his attention turned to the missive...walking over, he picked it up and read..

Siya..

but...where was she now?...and why did she have a backpack full of toys?..this was all very strange...he would definitely have questions for her when she returned..he was a smart man...but the truth of the situation would never have occurred to him...

he assumed she wanted to stay with him...which is why she had left he pack...and obviously the toys were for some urchin somewhere she knew of...he knew she had a big heart...in spite of her sometimes rough exterior..

he shrugged and went about the business of starting a fire in the hearth~

[=Siya Maiden=]

She heard the voice call out to her, she recognized it immediately. It was the Lady Dreams voice, it was calling out after her, and much to her dismay, it was not fading in the distance with each stride she ran. "Damn it". She cursed to herself as she realized that the lady dream was running after her.

She didn't have time for this, but she knew she was going to have to stop as she knew the Lady Dream would not stop running after her. She slowed down and came to a halt, as she waited for the Lady to catch up, she had no idea what she was going to say, what lie she would have to tell another friend, she really did not want to bring her friend into this situation.

She allowed Dream to catch up and once she had caught up she really didn't afford the lady a chance to speak. She herself began to speak while Dream tried to catch her breath.

I 'ave naught the time te stop and chat M'Lady Dream, but ye 'ave two choices and ye need to make a choice right now, ye either keep up with me and ask nae any questions, or ye turn around and 'ead back te the village, and naught ask me any questions. But know that iff'n ye come with me ye must do as I say.

I assure ye M'lady Dream ye nae be in any danger, I just need te be taking care o' an urgent matter and I cannae afford any 'indrance... please Dream ... ye must trust me.

And with that, she turned upon her booted heel and picked up the pace again. She had to get back to the inn and to her pack before her husband discovered it, for if he did, she knew fully well the questions he would ask. She just hoped that Dream chose wisely. She had not meant to come across rude or aggressive, but as a mother, and if the Lady only knew she was a mother, she was sure she would understand.

She ran and ran, she did not look back to see if Dream had followed, she was just focused on getting to the inn. She had a plan, one if dream decided to follow and one if she didn't, either way she hated to much that she would be lying to a friend and her husband, but it was her husband that she feared the most. Up until now, the lies she had told him, were unrelated to their son, therefore it didn't make her nervous as such. But she knew ... if he had found her pack, that he would ask questions, and it would make her nervous and he would know and see through her words.

Still, she would have to give it a shot, she wasn't sure if she was ready to tell him the truth just yet, she wasn't sure if he was ready to hear the truth just yet, the truth ... he was a father.

She was now at his room, standing in front of the door. She took some time to compose herself, to catch her breath, to fix her hair to make it appear that she had not been in such a sense of urgency.

She took one last deep breath and exhaled slowly before lifting her slender fingers to his door and tapping on it softly.

[Dream Loxley]

Puffing and panting, Dream felt her heart beating so hard in her chest and head she thought it may burst. Thank goodness Siya stopped......if only momentarily. Dream bent a little from the waist taking in deep breaths to still her heart beat and could only listen as Siya spoke. There was little by way of an explanation, yet she was definitely in a hurry to be somewhere else......of course Dream could not keep up, she would not even try. Siya was a Knight of the realms, more than capable of taking care of herself and she had stated emphatically that there was no danger. Dream believed her and accepted her words.....the last thing she wished to be was a hindrance and if she followed she may just become such to her friend..

With a nod and a soft smile, she found enough breath to speak, just as Siya turned on her heal to run again. "I trust ye......I shall await word that all be well......be safe now Siya."

Dream held her basket close as she watched Siya run on.....she knew then how old she was and how unfit.....whatever was amiss, she was confident her friend would deal with it. Ranger Owen began to protest a little and made to follow, but Dream assured him all would be well, and bid him accompany her back to the Castle.

((Looking forward to reading more as this secret unfolds ))

[Seer]

~the fire now fully ablaze...he rose...the was something about the pack that still sat in the dark recesses of his mind...something...he couldn't put his finger on it...who could she be giving toys too?...perhaps...they were toys for the queens unknown heir...he had seen this in a dream...and of course...dreams are just that...dreams...

but they were his specialty...

it had been long since he practiced the art....they were dark and he did not like where his soul went when he slept...but he had learned to trust his visions...learned to glean from them...and since he had arrived here...he had visions in his nightly sleeps of a child...who else could it be?...there was also an instance with the lord deiter when he first arrived...there was something there...how did all this fit together...?...?

he missed his wife...

he made his way over to the pack once again...he still didnt know for certain that it was hers...he just wanted to have a second look...something was nibbling at the back of his brain...if the contents were private...they would not have been left in his room...

as if on cue...there was a slight knocking at the door....his heart darkened...his pupils dilated..there was that old sinking feeling in his stomach...and then...

he knew it was her...

he could feel it...his intuition honed like an instrument of destruction...he hated the curse...thank god she did not suffer from it as well...he would not wish it upon anyone...as he made his way to the door to let her in...he had an instant flash of what it might be to read the cards again...his fortune was beginning to wain..perhaps he should return home to his shop...he had countless missives and letters of request...it would be easy enough...he just needed a place to read..

he placed his hand on the door latch and opened it...his eyes took her in..she was sweating...and trying to hide it...he breath was shallow and deep...her eyes quick and sharp...hmmm...what was this about?...his lips moved in a serpents grace into a half smile....~

hello, m'love....i thought i might see you soon...

~he stood aside~.....come in...

[=Siya Maiden=]

Her erratic heart beat almost came to a complete stop as she heard the door knob turn. He ... was ... there. Of all the days he should return to the room, it would have to be this day. How could she have been so careless? After the last four years of treading so carefully, off constant sacrifices ... and now, due to a moment of ignorance and anger she had made a mistake ... the question now was ... would she pay for it. More to the fact, would her son ... their son, pay for it.

She slightly moved her head so she could peer behind her. The Lady Dream had appeared not to have followed her, she was on her own. This was going to be difficult. The door opened and her eyes gazed up to meet his. It had been days since she had stood before her husband. Why it bothered her now, she didn't understand, as she had gone 4 years without seeing him. She was nervous, indeed she was extremely nervous.

She used every ounce of her training she had undertaken previously, that helped her to remain calm in a unsettling situation. She stepped in. He stood holding the door open for him and she paused by his side. One arm coming to softly grip his upper arm as she leaned in gently and placed her lips upon his cheek. Before lowering to rest her forehead on his cheek for a few lingering seconds. She spoke softly.

'tis good te see that ye 'ave returned Seer. I was 'oping that ye would be 'ere upon me return this afternoon. I 'ave missed ye terribly...

Her eyes drifted softly around the room as she still lingered by resting upon his cheek. Then they stopped, and to her, it felt like time itself stopped as she spotted her pack, on the bed, open. She remained as calm as she could, concentrating on breathing slowly, even though, she was now in full panic mode. Again she spoke, as calm a tone as possible, still in a soft manner.

M'love ... I feel like I be chilled te the bone, perhaps the weather? Perhaps I be coming down with a fever? Would ye mind fetching me a cup o' tea ... please?

She offered what distractions she could, to distract from her nervousness. Obviously, there was no distracting from the fact that her pack had been found ... and opened. Whether the contents of her pack had been revealed or not was still not clear.

She now moved slowly and calmly from his side and she moved towards the bed, towards her pack. She began to close it up tightly and securely. She tried her best to make it look like it was left on purpose, like it wasn't a big deal. In fact, it was a HUGE deal. She prayed he had not looked inside, she was very scared at this point, she had no idea how this was going to go.

Again, she began to speak as she fiddled with her pack.

I see ye found me missive then Seer ... and me pack. I 'ope it did not alarm ye that I 'ad left it 'ere. I 'ad decided te take a walk te the village te buy some ... tea ... and ... books ... and I did nae feel like lugging this 'ere 'eavy pack around the village whilst doing such.

She could feel her every heart beat, in every pulse point of her body. She picked her pack up from the bed. Moving it to the floor and tucking it slightly out of direct view, under the bed. Oh, she hoped he had bought it. She prayed he had not sensed her fear of this situation that was unfolding. But she knew her husband well enough to know, that he would know, if she was directly hiding something from him, but still she tried and still she prayed that by some miracle, this might just work.

She loved this man very much, and she hated the fact that this would almost, if not, actually kill him ... if he were to know the truth. That they shared a son. That not only did they share a son, but a gifted son too. A son that she kept hidden from him ... for four years now. She felt there was no turning back from such ... secrets. She dreaded to think about that day. The day when he was to learn of his son.

Now she moved away from the bed, to the middle of the room, again she allowed her gaze to dance over the room before returning it to fall upon him. She offered a loving smile, her ruby lips tried to entice him, to distract him ... she spoke warmly and lovingly.

I 'ope ye 'ave kept well m'love ... and that ye travels 'ave been kind and safe? Please ... won't ye tell me about them ... m'love?

[Seer]

~he could tell something was off...she had been running...perhaps sparring..who knows...it was not uncommon with her....he could feel her body heat as she came close to him...~

if you fill a bit under the weather, m'love, then come sit near the fire...warm yourself...

~mayhaps that was it...perhaps she was feverish...~ I'll get you some tea...

~he stepped out of the room to make his way down to the ground floor of the inn..however, he met a serving girl, then innkeepers daughter he had guessed on the stairs....he asked nicely for a cup of tea to be sent to the room..the girl smiled and nodded before going back to her business..he nodded and turned to return to the room...he hoped Siya wasnt ill....he paused a moment at the top of the stairs....something wasnt right here...he couldnt quite grasp it...he would talk to her some more..see if there was anything afoot...he did not believe she would EVER lie to him...that couldnt be it...but..

where had she been??

and what was with all the toys??...

he shrugged and continued on to the room...he opened the door and saw her sitting there near the hearth..~

Are you well, my dear?...i hope you have not fallen ill...and why are you carrying toys about in ye pack...i opened it as i did not know where it came from when i returned to the room..and i did not see the missive till after...

~he watched her closely now..not out of suspicion, just wonder, he was absolutely at a loss with these pieces...he still was worried that any day she might pick up and leave again without telling him...he would not tell her that..but it was a worry....he was glad she was back now and he was determined to keep her...perhaps it had all been his fault...perhaps he had pushed her away...been too distant...these were his thoughts every time he awoke and she had been gone...recently..it had just been trips to the bakery..or the market...but...still...he feared...one day............

his silver-blue eyes focused on her...he had promised her long ago he would never read her...after all...every wife has her secrets...but she had also promised that she would not lie if asked a question by him...it was their deal...and he thought it a fair one...

he loved her...

it was obvious...in everything he did...in all of their talks...in the way they walked together....they way they held each other...she would not hide anything from him...and he trusted her above all others...~

well, m'love?...do i need send for a healer?

[Cara McKenna]

((talk about a guilt trip Seer lol ))

[=Siya Maiden=]

She sighed deeply to herself as she stood there and watched him leave the room without answering her, but at least he was going to get her tea and returning, although ... what would be better at this point? Him leaving because he was fed up with all her "mystery"...at least that way she wouldn't have to lie to him ... again.

she went and took a seat by the hearth. she wasn't really chilled to the bone. Yet another lie to fall from her lips. She felt terrible, betraying her husband like this. He deserved better. She was torn within this situation. She only ever wanted what was best for him, but then the baby happened. Her priorities changed, strange things began happening and for the safety of her unborn child, their unborn child, well she sacrificed what she had to, to protect it. She sacrificed her husband and the promises she made to him.

Lost in such guilty thoughts, her head dropped and met her open hands as she cupped her face with them, she slightly shook her head sideways, what a mess she had made. She should never had come back. It was a mistake. Now everything was falling apart, and if it did ... no, when it did all of these sacrifices she made and the pain she had caused,would have been for nothing.

Her mind drifted to her son. He would be wondering where she was by now ... perhaps? Perhaps, as much of a child as he was ... he might have already saw ... this ... happening in some sense. She knew though, he would be right where she left him, right where she knew he would be safe, because they had prepared for instances like this. She just needed to get back to him, but how? What was she going to do?

His footsteps arose her from her painful thoughts. Seer had returned to the room again, and was now talking to her ... she could feel his eyes upon her ... and then the words fell from his mouth. The confirmation that he had indeed discovered what was in her pack. How on earth was she going to lie to him. Never had she had to do this so directly, this was absolutely destroying her, not only as a wife, but a mother as well. Lying to the two great men in her life, yet one was not quite a man and look at the example she was setting for him.

She looked up, removing her head from her hands. Her eyes, that normally flickered a warming hazelnut glow, were now that of a candle flickering to the end of it's wick. She sighed ever so slightly and softly, her head turning to glance at him, she offered him a smile, well ... what smile she could manage over top of this terrible guilt that was eating her alive at this very moment. Her words fell quietly in his direction.

Oh ... nae Seer, there is nae any need fer a 'ealer ... 'twas just a chill. 'tis someting that a hot tea shall fix instantly, really ... a 'ealer nae be necessary.

She smiled at him again, he must be confused she thought. He must sense ... that she is at a struggle with this. Surely, if he had not "seen" this already, then he could sense that she was torn right now, that she was on edge. Goosebumps covered every inch of her body, and although it wasn't cold in front of the hearth by any measure, the goosebumps would not disappear and she actually began to tremble.

Her head now dropped, and her gaze now shifted from him to the fire that burned before her. This was painful, so very painful, but she cleared her throat and began to talk again, still in a soft manner, but her gaze was held by the fire now... and not upon him.

Ye see m'love ... I thought I would take some o' the old toys from the castle that the children there nae longer played with an take them te the village ... for the ... orphans an as I was on me way thought I would check the Inn te see iff'n ye 'ad returned from ye travels ... I must 'ave just been in such a daze that I left me pack 'ere...and...since thee... 'ad not... I mean, ye 'ad been on travels for so vera long... I mean the pack was 'eavy... ye know from the wooden toys...

She was making no sense, it was just lie after lie and it was like a hard kick to the shin with every lie she told him. She ... just ... couldn't ... not anymore. She now choked on her own lies, and at that moment, she shook her head and rose almost angrily from her seat. Her voice, trembled and she became louder. Her slender arms came to fold neatly across her chest. She still did not look at him though, her eyes still held to the flames that flickered in front of her.

I can do this nae more ... I just can nae do this ... I ... I ... just ... can nae do this to thee ...

Ye deserve far better than this ... and I can nae keep doing this te thee...

Her gaze still lowered, as she was too afraid to look at him at this point, she turned upon her heels and slowly walked towards him. She came to a slow stop, not directly in front of him ... but to his side. She was still trembling, her arms down by her side ... but one slowly rose, like she was raising her hand out to a wild animal tentatively. Her hand came to hover over his upper arm, she was afraid to touch him, afraid how he might react. Afraid he might step away from her touch.

Slowly, she lifted her eyes, her gaze moved up to his face. She had no tears ... but her eyes had a glaze about them. She attempted to meet his gaze and as she did this she finally had the courage to touch his upper arm gently, so very gently ... her touch trembled and she softly squeezed it. Her eyes searching his ... it was unknown to her.

Her hand now fell away from him and she averted her gaze beyond him and in the direction of the door. Her feet began to move again, how she managed to walk one foot in front of the other at this very moment, surprised her. She felt weak. She reached out for the door knob and twisted it, it clicked and she pulled the door open.

I ...

I have something I wish te show thee ... please ...

She did not look at him, she had no idea what was going to happen, but she simply waited at the door.

So this was how it was going to happen. This was to be how it all went down. The time had come ... she had no choice now, there was no turning back from this. Seer ... her dear friend, her dear lover, her dear husband ... was going to learn the truth. He was going to learn that he was a Father, to a son, who was as gifted and as special as he.

[Seer]

~when he returned and questioned her about the healer...he did indeed notice she was acting strange...any fool would have known...especially anyone who actually knew her...this disturbed him a bit...he could sense she was reluctant..hiding..fearful...but of what?..surely she knew she was safe here..not just within his room, but withing Windstorm and her village..why was she acting this way?

the lie about the toys rolled off her lips with some unease..he knew instantly that this was not the truth...the orphans were already well taken care of...the kingdom was prosperous enough for at least that and the queen had always had a kind heart for such things...again...he would not look into her...a promise he had made long ago...trust...there had to be trust among them...but why would she lie?..why would she even try, knowing, surely that he would sense it...he would not call her on it...every woman has her secrets...and if there was something she did not wish to tell him, he could live with that...but there was no reason to lie...

he began to worry...

when she got up so quickly from her chair, at first, he thought she might run...but...she didnt..still...she did not look at him either...when her next words came about not being able to do it anymore, he wondered just how long this had been going on...was this to do with why she had left in the first place...without reading her, he could not possibly know...

when she opened the door he could almost not hear her words about needing to show him something...his heart was pounding in his ears...what the hell was going on here?..what was this important that had her so worked up?..so...afraid? he began to fear the worst...

had she killed someone?..

maybe she had discovered some illness that meant her death?..

perhaps there was another she had met and fallen in love with?..

the questions and many others raced through his mind as he forced his legs to work and took a step to follow her out the door..he had said nothing up to this point, but when his words came they were simple and cutting~

Siya, what is the meaning of all this?

[=Siya Maiden=]

He was behind her, he was following her through the door. Although this was an undesirable situation, she could take solace in the fact that he was at least willing to follow her. She heard his words. She didn't know how to answer him, not in any words anyway.

She turned to face him, she took a step towards him. She had no words, instead she stepped to his side and pulled the door shut behind him. She let out a slight sigh as she moved back before him again. She looked him over. Nothing more could be done now, he was just going to have to trust her.

She reached out and gently took his hand, she now looked to him and sought eye contact, she held his eyes as she applied a firmer grip on his hand now.

'er ... and right now, Seer... is nae the time fer me te explain... come with me... trust in me and keep up...

With a nod, and still with his grip firmly within hers she turned upon her heel and lead him away from the room, away from the inn ... and made their way to the village. The trek there was with great speed and she refused to let go of his hand at any given time, she didn't want to. She wondered what he must be thinking right now, where his thoughts were at, what he knew ... what he did not know. Then her thoughts turned to their son, they were almost there now.

They had reached the village in the early hours of the eve. They approached the shop where she had hidden the boy since her return here, to Windstorm, to her husband. She led him directly to the door of the shop ... her eyes scanning vigorously around the village to make sure no prying eyes were watching her and Seer.

The sign said closed, she didn't care, but then again, she didn't have too ... she was expected back here. With one hand still held with his, her other reached out and opened the shop door and she pulled him in, quickly shutting the door behind them and locking it securely, and by that time she had let her hand fall from his.

She looked around the store, it was left exactly as it were when she took off. Footsteps rushed from around a dark corner as the old man and lady appeared before them, no words were exchanged. They just stood there, eyes widened, mouths gaping. They were shocked to see "him" here. She nodded to the couple in reassurance, that the time had come, there was no choice and that all was safe.

The old couple retreated back to the shadows, she turned to see again, taking his hand gently again, she led him behind the shop counter and through the door that was there. They stepped through the door and stood there, side by side. he pushed her foot out behind her and kicked the door shut.

There was a large bang as the door slammed shut behind her and the dim light of the candles flickered in the gust from the door. The room was dimly lit. She let go of Seers hand and took a few steps forward, leaving him a few steps behind her, she didn't look back at him but she did speak softly.

Seer ... wait 'ere ... just please wait 'ere...

With that, she continued and disappeared around the corner in the darkness. She made a few noises, it would sound like some furniture being moved[, he'd be able to hear her speak softly, not loud enough for him to make out what was being said though.

She now had her son hoisted upon her hip and his arms were wrapped around her neck. She whispered in his ear softly as she began to make her way back around the darkened corner, and into the dimly lit room, where they were both in full view of Seer.

She laid a soft kiss upon the boys head and stepped a few more steps further into the room, before placing the boy on the ground and spoke softly and as soothing and calming and reassuring as she could.

Seer, M'Love ... this 'ere be Cael an Dana. He ... is ... your ......... son.

She didn't need to tell her son who this man was, he knew. He knew straight away, like he had seen him before, or he just sensed it. She guessed it was just something they shared. A gift they had in common.

The boy, all of 4 years of age, bounded towards Seer. His fiery mane of red hair dancing about his shoulders, flicking in his eyes with every leap he made. He just ran straight at his leg, and once he had arrived at Seer, he latched on to his leg and his tiny little voice, filled with a heavy irish accents just like her own squealed excitedly up at him.

Daddy...

She followed on a few footsteps behind, her eyes beginning to glass over, she knelt down before them both and just watched, her gaze set upon their son. The first meeting of his father. Her hand pursed together and she raised them to her face as she watched the boy hug up his fathers leg. A few tears began to roll down her cheeks.

It was over. The secret she had kept from him was out. All out in the open now, she felt relief, for the first time in 4 years, she felt relief. She didn't have to lie to her husband anymore. She never lied to her son though. He was fully aware of who his Father was. She still kept her gaze upon her son ... she had no idea what was going to happen next... and she felt for Seer, this would be a lot for him to take in... but for her, right at this second, and if only for a second, she felt pure relief.

[Seer]

~he watched her as he stepped out the door and she closed it behind them...his brow wrinkled in questioning at her words..."no time to explain??...try to keep up??"..but he said nothing...he hoped they werent running somewhere...running was never a good thing...it usually meant something foreboding was coming...in one way or another...

still...

he followed her...he didnt have much choice what with the death grip she had on his hand and all..out of the inn and into the street they went...what had she gotten herself into this time?..and how was he supposed to help her out of it?...he wished in times like these that she were a woman of more words...still he followed...

when they arrived at the little shop..his curiosity peaked...he was about to speak about the closed sign in the window when she opened the door..he shrugged and was drug inside swiftly...finally she released his grip and locked the door...what the hell was she doing?...did she plan on stealing something?..again he was about to voice his questions when the old could stepped in from around the corner...he nodded but they made no gesture in return...only returned from whence they came with those shocked looks on their faces..this was getting stranger by the minute...

she took his hand again and lead him to the door behind the counter of the store...he felt as if they were intruding even as the old couple had said naught...he followed her inside and jumped a bit...both at the sound of the door slamming shut behind them....

and what he saw in the room...

her words were almost ignored by him as his concentration was elsewhere...but to abide her...he nodded...she moved off....the room was inhabited by at least a dozen spirits...all children...he suspected more who would be elsewhere at the moment...such was the nature of spirits...wandering..yet always returning to one place...a place of comfort for their tormented souls...these were hard times for children...most never saw their tenth winter...but why were they here?..what sort of high strangeness were the old couple who owned this place involved in?....and why was Siya involved??..

Siya...

he was about to speak her name when she returned again from around the corner holding a child...oh no...no, no, no...had she taken in some urchin?...his mind whirred with questions and thoughts in the few scant seconds it took her to approach him...this was a child, Siya...not some chipmunk or squirrel that she had found in the forest and decided to bring home...worse yet..a child that apparently had to be hidden away..he wondered who was after this child and the amount of trouble it would bring upon them both..

he was about to speak when she beat him to it...

it took a second for her words to sink in...at first he had thought them imagined..perhaps he just wished it so...when the child scuttled over to him and grabbed his leg speaking the word "daddy"...he knew it was indeed...not imagined...

suddenly...in flashes it all made sense...her leaving...the lies...the subterfuge...the disappearing in the night...the toys...all of it made sense now...as clear is these thoughts were in his mind...everything else seemed a blur of utter confusion...he was dumbfounded...how had he not seen this?...dreamed of it?...how had his child been so close in the village without him sensing it?...why were all these spirits here?..the world stopped moving for a few moments but his head kept on in a swimming, shocked haze...he pulled his leg away from the child and without another look at either of them..turned and opened the door...he stepped back into the shop and closed the door behind him...he stood there...leaning on the counter...it wasnt enough..he fell to his knees first and back on his ass..he sat there...in complete shock as his mind, glorious as it may have been in the past, was now struggling...

he needed a moment to think this out...

why?...

why, oh why?...

why had she said nothing to him?...nothing up to this point...he felt betrayed...he felt dishonored...he felt overwhelmed...his breath came in short little bursts from his lungs...then the thought came to him...why he had not sensed the child...why the spirits were in the room...like himself...the child had the curse....

a gift from his "loving father"...

this would be a thought that would torment his soul for the rest of his life...he would have never wished it on another...which is why he had never had children in the past..because of the risk involved...he would never want to bring a child into this world with such an affliction...a tear rolled down his cheek as he sat in the floor just outside the room...

mouth gasping like some dying fish washed up from the sea..~

[=Siya Maiden=]

Her heart broke, both for Seer and her son. The reaction, was not the one she had hoped for, but it was the one, that was in the back of her mind, that she knew was going to happen. Really, what could she expect? She had left him four years ago, given him no explanation, gave birth to his son, then just returned out of the blue. She had to be rational here. She had to support him and help him through this, of course, he had to allow that, but she would do no less than try.

She gestured to her son who appeared to be left a little confused by his Fathers sudden departure. She herself was still kneeling on the ground. She softly called to the boy and gestured him towards her open arms, which he quickly ran into and she protectively wrapped him up in, laying a soft kiss upon his cheek.

'tis alright m'beautiful boy ... Seer ... ye father be just a wee bit surprised ... 'tis nae ye fault.

She lent back a bit from him and gave him her motherly reassuring smile, she reached up and ruffled his hair and then she rose to her feet.

Now, how about ye go and get yeself ready fer bed, 'tis way past ye bedtime ... I shall be back there te tuck ye in, in a wee bit ...

She ushered him gently and off he ran, disappearing into the darkness of the room. She let out a sigh as she turned and faced the door. Both her hands placed upon her nervous tummy as she took in a deep breath and walked to the door, opening it without hesitation, for if she hesitated to open it, she might not walk through it.

She saw Seer hunched on the floor, and she quickly stepped over to him, a moment of panic rushing through her as placed her hand on his shoulder and got down on her knees beside him. Her hand slid to his back and she softly rubbed up on down it for him, hoping it might offer him some comfort, obviously ... he was in shock.

She leaned into him a bit more now, her other arm now reaching out to brush the hair that hung in his face. She could see had been crying, she thought, she honestly thought, that throughout the last four years she had been doing the right thing. But now, now seeing her son ... and her husbands reactions, she wasn't so sure.

She took in a deep breath and she began to speak gently.

Seer ... m'love ... please, nae cry ... it breaks me 'eart te see ye this way ...

She continued to rub his back with the one hand, and she now moved her other hand to cup his cheek as she gently ushered his head in her direction, she needed for him to meet her gaze. She desperately searched for a meeting of their eyes.

I nae know what I can say te thee or do fer thee right now ... all I can tell thee is that ... Cael, our son is putting 'imself te bed and I promised I would be there te tuck 'im in ... please m'love, please come back inside ... 'elp me tuck 'im in ... he be just 'as scared as yeself ... 'tis nae 'is fault, 'tis nae ye fault either ... it be me own fault, I be the one te place the blame on, so please ... please nae punish 'im fer that ...

Iff'n ye wish te talk after that, then I promise thee ... talk we shall. Iff'n ye wish te leave after that, then I shall nae fight thee on it. iff'n ye wish fer us both te leave ... than that I can also do, iff'n ye wish, but know that, that is nae what I want ...

But I beg o' thee m'love ... please just 'elp me tuck 'im in. So that he may 'ave a sound sleep.

Her gaze pleaded with him. She stroked his back a few more times before pushing herself up and off her knees, she now stood beside him. She gently lent down placing a kiss upon the top of his head, she now offered her hand down to him, hoping he would take it, and join her to tuck their son in for the night.

[Seer]

~they had agreed earlier to meet at the castle in the hall...he had arrived first and was quietly puffing away on his smoke and drinking long swallows from his wine goblet...when suddenly.....~

Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~hearing a cough, he blinked...then the kitchen door opened and his eyes were drawn there..a smile slid easily across his face as she entered...he stood...both in etiquette and so she could see him better...he motioned her over..it seemed like forever since he had last seen her...she was so busy these days...he knew why...it hadnt been very long since she had shocked him with the news...he had had time to think on it...and the prospect of a child did not seem so dire anymore...especially knowing she would be there to mother the boy...he did hatre that he had the curse..but...at least his father could teach him methods on contolling it...his eyes took her in as she moved...such grace and power...he loved her...it was obvious...~

Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She was on her way to the claim the heat of the fires anyway, her dark chocolate gaze lazily drifted about the halls, when they fell upon a figure that rose from a chiar nearby the fires. It instantly warmed her from the inside of her toes, to the outside of her finger tips. And there it was ... that "something" that would hold her attention. The need and the wants were answered, and not only were they answered but all rolled in to one. That was easy. It wasn't a need for wine, it wasn't a want for food. A small smile formed upon her ruby lips as her heavy boots made their way over to him, her husband. Things had been somewhat "tense" for the last couple days if not weeks, but slowly, they were getting there. It was not easy, and she knew ... deep down she knew it would not take him long to warm to the idea of being a father. Now she stood before him, in almost a jestful way, she inclined her head in a greetings ... her eyes were a light with a playful humour as she parted with her words, thickly licked with her strong irish accent.- Good-eve te thee M'Lord ... II trust ye evening 'as treated thee well? ...

Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~as her first footfall fell in his direction, his heart began to pump fire through his viens...this woman had a way with him that no other had...he was helpless but to smile at her..like some dumb and dazed special person...each step that brought her closer sent whirs of emotion and memories through his mind..he would do anything for her....his passion for her burned with the white hot intensity of a thousand suns...he would never be able to harm her...it would mean his own destruction...their relationship wasnt perfect...they had had their share of bad times..as when she had left without reason...he felt he had been adrift the whole time on a glass sea...siiting on a ship sailed by deamons...she had nearly done him in...but now he finally knew why...at times he still struggled with the question...was it worth it?...but every time he saw her face all other thoughts were eclipsed...all other voices silenced...she would be able to help the boy too in that way...more than she would ever know...his breath caught in waves as she stopped before him...her words like silk seduced his ears.~...from my vantage point, m'lady...this evening could not be better...~with that...without any regaurd to etiqutte or his surroundings...he leaned forward and kissed her gently...he loved her taste...there was truely nothing sweeter in the world...he pulled back slightly and looked into her eyes~...and how is your evening treating you....my lady?..~s~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She felt a shiver sweep through her body, leaving her spine tingling as she felt his kiss, and even though they had been married for years and together even longer than that, his tender touch still bought a crimson hue to her cheeks and made her break down like a young girl with her first crush. Her gaze danced lightly upon him, drinking up his form like the finest wine the lands had to offer, he always knew the right words to compliment her, the right thing to ease the situation. Her gaze now danced back up at meet his, the blush still about her cheeks, as again, it felt like she was almost too out of breath to speak.- Well ... I would 'ave te echo thee words on this evening ... 'as the way I see it, it 'as just exceeded me expectations... -her lips formed the largest smile they possibly could, and as much as she tried to speak "proper" she would get caught in the moment, and a few slips of some irish jibber would fall in there, she reached out now and took his hand, not for any particular reason, simply, just because she could ... and she wanted to ... she wanted that connection, she was testing whether to mention thier son or not.-

Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~he was helpless in her gaze...and for a moment...he said nothing....they were like that most of the time...her eyes said it all...an old tune about irish eyes smiling came to his mind..he had seen those same firey irish eyes filled with brine and piss and vinegar before...she was some kind of woman...one might say the best of both worlds...sweet and tender as a daisy petal in times like these...but when it came time to swing the sword...well...he was glad that she was on his side....he loved her more than the words of man could ever descibe...and would...even after everything they knew was stripped away, and the world burned around the...he would be holding her in his arms...his rudeness suddenly came to him and he spoke~...please my dear...sit with me...would you like a drink?....~he motioned to a serving girl and a chair next to his~..tell me how you day has treated you...tell me...~he still felt a tad awkward in the mentioning~..how is the boy, my love?...~his eyes moved over her watching her reaction as he settled into his own chair still holding her hand~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She would squeeze his hand softly, for what felt like hours, but really it was only seconds while they meerly stood and looked upon each other. She felt very lucky indeed to have such a man in her life. Patience, trust and undetstanding. Understanding was rather an understatement after what she had put him through over the last 4 or so years, but still ... she knew they both felt lucky to have one another, they need not speak it, it was conveyed through the way they looked at each other. She let out a soft chuckle as he spoke, inclining her head towards him in regards to his offer to be seated. As she moved by him to take the seat offered, she brushed by close, taking the opportunity to place a small kiss upon his cheek. But as she sat down, her expression of a smile somewhat changed. He had taken the initiative to mention thier son, she was utterly suprised that he had bought the boy up. He had no idea, that in that very second, he had put every question, tense feeling or doubt about the situation, that she held that eve, at ease. She was speechless for a minute or two. She then looked up to him, a very humble smile pressed upon her lips, she almost stumbled for the words as she spoke- ... Cael, he ... he be well. -Her hands slightly trembled, this was a rather foriegn conversation for them, for her ... this was a new experience indeed. To keep her hands from the slight tremble she gently clasped them together and dropped them in her lap.- He ... was asking o' ye this eve m'love ..


Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~he pulled from his smoke and nodded as she spoke the words he so wanted to hear...strange emotions he was not use to stirred deep within him when she mentioned that he had asked about him...for the first time in a long time...seer was speachless...he didnt know what to say...how to feel...how to react...he was happy...but it was a different kind of happy...when he thought about Siya now...there would always be there son as well...it wasnt worse...it was better...but in a way he wasnt use to feeling...in a way that made him worry about what kind of father he could possibly be...in a way that made him want to cast all other things aside in his life in order to concentrate on providing a better life for his son...it saddened him to think of the child gripped in the horror of lost and other peoples dreams...at least he had had the monks to lecture him when he was growing up...but this boy....this...beautiful little boy...he looked over to siya...had only had her...how had she dealt with his night times...he wondered if the child even suffered in such a way...he prayed not...there were too many words fighting to escape his lips from his mind...with effort...he forced a few through~...good, good...im glad he is well...he....~he stumbles on his words~...he asked of me?...~he looks almost confused...bewildered~...what does he ask of?...is there something i might bring him to give him comfort?...something i might help him with...~he was utterly lost when it came to children...he had no idea of their ways and wants...and it was obvious~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She watched helplessly as he stumbled through his words. This would be so difficult for him, as it was for her ... 4 years ago, when she took off. She guessed they were both doing the best they could, considering the circumstances she had put them under. They hadn't yet talked in full about the boy. They had barely scratched the surface. But she needed to give Seer time. Time for this to all sink in and for him to adjust before it was taken to the next level. She knew that he would be able to sense that the boy would indeed posses the same gifts as he did, she had been with Seer long enough to know and to be sure that he would sense that father and son were "cursed" so to speak. But for now, she would not burden him with such sleepless night, the screaming, the crying. The many a night, which, to be honest, before they had returned here, almost every night that the boy slept in the bed with her. It was part of her reason for returning... but that, was to be shared with Seer another time, when she felt he would be able to cope with such information. The thoughts sent goosebumps racing down her arm and her body slightly jolted with that shiver you got, when you say "someone just walked over my grave". She pushed through that and again, offered him the most warming genuine smile, for she could see Seer was trying, trying to be a Father and she was sure, that he would make a good one, without any doubt in her mind.- He asks when ye shall be coming by to visit him again ... he wishes to 'ear tales o' ye travels and adventures ... like all wee lads who dream o' such things... -She nodded softly with her words, trying to be reasuring but churning on her insides at her choice of words-.


Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~a peculiar choice of words indeed,,,again he looked as if he had been hit over the head with a very large stick..he was quite and took several puffs from his smoke as he thought on her words...there were a great many questions he had...though siya might know the answer to them...they were better directed towards the boy...had he dreamt of she without a face yet?...had he seen the re-occuring visage?...it worried his to think of the child going through such things so young and unguided...it would be difficult for them as a family...for there would be things father and son could never speak of to siya...he wanted so badly to be able to do or say some one thing and make all of this better for everyone...but even in his traveled wisdom he had never come across this situation before...he looked to siya through the slender tendrils of smoke~...i shall come on the morrow...i assume he sleeps now...and i hope you are right, my love...i hope his dreams are filled with fanciful adventures.....~he takes up his wine glass and takes a large gulp...he knew better than what he said...but there was always hope...the boys mother was a good woman...he only hoped it would be enough...he looked forward to seeing the child again...his first encounter...had been...to say the least...awkward...if it seemed only for himself...for the child seemed to have an altogether lovely dispositiont...he supposed he had Siya to thank for that...his eyes found hers again and he smiled helplessly~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She knew ... she knew she had made a mistake the split second those words fell from her lips. She was not stupid. She knew what thoughts would be travelling through his mind from the moment he found out he had a son. She also knew he was not stupid either and would know the terrors he had been through and all she could do was thank the lord that she had sometimes, seen Seer in such predicaments, or how sometimes she would watch him sleep when sleep evaded her. He spoke of things in his sleep sometimes ... sometimes, even though he was unaware of this, perhaps, she would offer him comfort through the touch of her hand to this cheek, the stroking motion upon the skin of his arm, sometimes ... sometimes, and rarely this was, she would have to hold Seer down. She never felt the need to mention this to him, it was just ... a ... part of who he was and a part of thier lives. It did not hinder her in any way what so ever. He was hers to fuss over, to look after and that she did with no complaint. Just as she did with thier son. This she only knew how to do because of her husband ... but at least it was at least, something that she could do for the boy. His words played to her heart strings. She knew what he meant, she he knew what she meant. They both just could not bring themselves to say it to each other, so she too, kept up this "charade" of sorts, although ... her smile was getting easier to see through, still there would be no doubt of how much it warmed her heart to be sitting her, with her husband.- Mayhaps ... m'love ... -she paused a moment, before shifting her eyes to meet his- mayhaps ye would come back te the shop with me this eve ... and retire there? -Her words were hesitantly spoken, but she spoke with hope that he could understand that even though this situation was indeed caused by her, that she too, found this extremely difficult.- I am sure Cael would be overly joyed to wake and find ye there ... o' course, please do nae feel that ye must do this ... 'twas just an idea m'love. I did promise our boy that I would return te spend the eve there. He was verra eager and insisted that he make me breakfast ... -Her eyes lowered from his and difted to the fire that danced in front of her, she could not look at him when she spoke the words that would come out next, she did not want to guilt him in to accepting her request on this basis.- He did ask me ... te see iff'n thee would like te join us upon the morn fer breakfast ...


Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~Her words toyed with his heart in ways he did not understand...he had little problem in retiring with his wife for the evening...he was just unuse to the idea of the boy being a part of his waking...he wasnt...opposed to the idea necessarily...it was just not something he was use to...how did she or he even know the child would take to him..he considered his words carefully~...i would love to retire with you this evening, my love...and..~he stuggled to find the words~..i much want to see..our boy...i...i just have so many concerns for him...~he nods~...yes....tomorrow...we shall have a breakfast...then afterwards...i shall use the time with him accordingly...there is much i would wish to speak to him about...~he looked to siya and gave her another genuine smile~...i want to be the best for him...but...i fear i know not how...~he took a =nother drag from his smoke and flicked the butt into the flames of the hearth~...ive never come across a scroll with instructions or wisdoms on how to father a boy...please, my dearest...bare with me...i swear to you and he....i will do my best...~he reached over and took her hand in his~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -She can't say his words didn't hurt her. In fact, they stung like a bee ... but as much as her heart would protest, her brain fully understood. Realistically ... another night without her husband by her side would not be any different to the countless nights over the past few years since she took off, the only thing that comforted her in those lonely nights was that her attentions were drawn in by her other love, the love of her son. She did not look to him though, she did not want to, again, guilt him with her hearts disappointment, but at least he agreed to breakfast and that would be enough to make thier boy happy and that is what mattered. Funny, funny how the view of happiness changes once a child is brought into the world. Her own happiness was put in second place to her sons. She was only happy if her were happy, but that was when it was just the two of them. Now being back with her husband ... trying to bring the two of them together ... and keep not one, but two of the male species happy ... it would be a task. She nodded to herself as she thought this. Her words softly escaped her ruby lips as she felt Seer take her hand, she curled her fingers around his large grip in return.- I understand m'love ... ye 'ave e'ery right te take as much time as ye be needin' te work through ... this ... and I will be by ye side every step o' the way ... -Her head slowly turns as her dark chocolate gaze now meet his- But know .... that I also nae possessed instructions on 'ow te mother a boy either ... and I te am trying me best ... fer 'im and for thee ... and I know I brough this upon meself, but believe me, 'tas nae been easy for me either. So I ask in return, even though I 'ave nae a right te ask, but please ... bare with me as well ... m'love


Seer of numberless dreams says to Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon Win: ~he looked at her a bit confused...her reaction was not what he had expected...her expression spoke volumes...he understood when she spoke...he had not made himself clear...he had a bad habit of that...he pulled her hand to him and kissed the back of it~...my love...im sorry...i did not make myself clear and for that i apologize....indeed, i will be happy to retire with you tonight..as well as share breakfast in the morning...as strange as the situation may seem to me...tis one i need get use to...one i look forward to trying my best at...~his eyes sought hers...it had been some time since they had lain together with no secrets...he was glad...it was as it was before she had left once again...with the glorious addition of a child...true...t'would be a learning process for the both of them...but he had the utmost faith in her...he only hoped she had as much faith in him~...come now, my love...my eyes grow heavy..and i long to hold you and breath in your sweet scent mingled with the night...i would also like to see the boy in his sleeping...i am...curious of something...~with that he stands, still holding her hand...offering her a strong arm in assistance rising...not that she needed it~


Siya Maiden-Hawkmoon says to Seer of numberless dream: -Her heart actually skipped a scheduled beat. She must have just been thinking the worst when she misunderstood him. And not only that, but his words that followed ... were undescribable to her. How she had feared what would happen once he learned of his son, those fears, for now had all but been erased with a simple conversation. Things were becoming normal again, but yet they were far from normal. They had a son. A beautiful boy. Who would have thought that either of them would have ever had children. Not she for one ... not anyone. Not that anyone actually knew just yet ... but she would assume the cat would be out of the bag before too long. She could not wait for Seer to experience the excitement and wonders of being a parent, of understand that, this child was a prodcut of their love. She was very excited for him, but she also knew that they had a tough path to walk ahead of them ... for thier child was not of a normal child. But they would deal with it, she already had begun to and it would appear Seer was about to. She couldn't find any words to say to him so she simply took the offering of his arm, never making him feel less of a man becuase she was a strong will lady knight, she adored having the assitance. She rose tall, not as tall as him, but not too far from it. She leant in and slowly planted her lips upon his, it was the only way she could truly convey how she felt at that moment. She lingered there long enough to get her point across before sliding her head down to his shoulder. She stood by his side ready to be lead back to retire for the eve.-