It was growing late, and to say Layla was exhausted was an understatement. Ambrose Pennington accompanied his Lady as she invited both Lady Brina and her priest husband Father Alexian out of the mansion for a walk. The lovely healer had inquired about a hospital, and Layla meant to show Lady Brina the temporary set up until the new hospital was fully operational. Their travels would take them just down the road on the outskirts of the main city.

The Lady of Bariston stifled a yawn and glanced toward her Captain, whom she caught meeting the gaze of the priest. A knowing look was exchanged but nothing else, and Layla arched a fine blonde brow wondering what sort of conversation took place earlier between the two. No doubt that should it have been of great importance, Ambrose would not have hesitated to inform her.

As they walked, Layla drawing her wrap around her tightly for the air was chilled, she explained to Lady Brina the situation regarding the newly rebuilt hospital. “The original place of healing was destroyed as you might have seen when you entered Bariston. The building was old, older than I,” she said with a faint smile, “and foolishly built out of the cheapest wood purchased at that time. It was commissioned under my father’s rule, and to be frank, he was rather cheap when it came to buying quality materials for buildings.” Layla’s lips thinned, a scowl brewing on her face. “Had he used his head and chosen stone and brick, we might not have lost half the buildings and homes we had.” The ruling Lady shook her head and flashed a rueful smile. “Thankfully for all, he is gone and I now rule in his stead. I am not my father’s daughter.”

After a few moments they came upon a rather large three story building nearing completion. An iron fence surrounded the building and a gravel path led from the main road to the entrance. It was, as Layla had requested, built entire of stone and as sturdy as a structure could be. It was not ostentatious to say the least for the doors were made of thick solid oak without any adornment, as were the windows as plain as could be. Layla was not interested in a grand building for all to wonder and marvel at. This was a place of healing. It was built strictly to accommodate the healers and the infirm. Layla cautioned Lady Brina from entering (for even the Lady of Bariston had not ventured inside yet) as within was quite the wreck. Beds and cots were in the process of being put together and supplies were being relocated from the nearby tavern which was being used as a makeshift infirmary until the hospital was completely move in ready. Layla did point out the freshly turned earth behind the hospital where she indicated an extensive garden was planned in the near future.

Layla gestured for the couple to follow her and the Captain as they made their way toward the small tavern that bore scorch marks from the fires, but other than that was in stable and working condition. Ambrose opened the door and all four entered where they were greeted by a middle aged woman garbed in dark grey robes named Lily, who smiled warmly to all who entered.

“Greetings to you healer,” Layla dipped her head in greeting, having the utmost respect for any who devoted themselves to care for the ill and needy. “May I present to you Lady Brina and Father Alexian Kincade. They have travelled quite the ways and have blessed us by choosing to relocated here to Bariston. Like yourself, Lady Brina is a healer and has offered her services,” Layla turned to smile at Brina and gestured with a hand to Alexian. “Father Alexian is a skilled warrior as well as a man of faith, and has generously agreed to build up our military and train those who require so.” Layla turned to face both of them and said with the utmost sincerity. “The gods have favored Bariston by bringing these two fine people here to us. I am most thankful to them.” Lily’s smile widened as she formally greeted Brina and Alexian and welcomed them to Bariston.

Layla then instructed Lily to show the husband and wife team to their temporary quarters upstairs. “I know you two do not wish to be a burden, but it would please me should you rest your heads here for now. There is plenty of room, as the other healers reside here as well until the hospital is built. Once completed, I have in mind to build housing specifically for them, and for you as well if you like, adjacent to the hospital.” Layla had hoped to have all construction completed before spring, but sadly supplies were taking ages to arrive. Layla was patient and persistent despite the shortcomings. Nothing was going to halt progress in the rebuilding of Bariston. Nothing would stop Layla from ensuring Bariston was once whole and thriving.

Layla excused herself to all. “Forgive me, but I truly must get some sleep. Please make yourselves comfortable, for I am sure you are both exhausted as well. Good night.” She dipped her head to all and turned to leave, but halted, her hand on the door as she turned her head slightly toward Brina. “Oh my Lady, I almost forgot. You were asking about medicinal herbs and plants. Honestly whatever we did have growing here has been lost, and my wonderful healers have been travelling to Vandual for supplies where all that we require grows abundant. As far as what we were growing, I could not tell you either as it was Sahar’s job to-,” Layla’s words died in her throat, a pained expression passed over her features briefly. “In any case, I am sure Lily will be able to assist you in those matters. Again, goodnight.” With that, Layla departed the tavern with Ambrose following close behind, leaving the healer and the priest to settle down for the evening.


The Captain noted his Lady’s change in behavior as she grew silent nearly the entire walk back to the mansion, her arms wrapped tightly around her a look of sadness in her eyes. They were on the walkway nearing the main courtyard when Ambrose spoke quietly, “You know, Layla, I believe enough time has passed should you wish to entertain the idea of a visit to Sahar.” He paused then before adding, “I’m sure regardless of all that has transpired, Sahar misses you as well, my Lady.”

Layla Victoire stopped dead in her tracks and whipped her head to regard Ambrose with wide eyes. “You must be mad, Captain. Even if it was something I wished to do, what makes you think that Verial would welcome me to his manse, that is if I managed to enter his city with my guards.” Layla laughed bitterly. “That man loathes me, and he is fully aware I find him incompetent as a ruler of anything, even a pitiful city such as Chaliceton.” Ambrose opened his mouth to protest, but Layla waved him off with a weary sigh. “Please, Ambrose, I am tired and want nothing more than to lapse into a coma in my own bed.” Layla patted her friend and Captain on his arm and murmured a good evening to him before disappearing into the mansion, stopping for no one and nothing until she reached her room.

Long after Layla had retired, as fatigued as she was, her mind was racing with ideas and possibilities. Sahar. Perhaps she could convince the desert healer to return to Bariston after she apologized for her behavior. That is if Verial hadn’t completely brainwashed the magae against her, which was likely. Verial Akilara. Hmm...a visit to the Lord of Arthuran. An interesting idea indeed, and even more intriguing if the Lady of Bariston should happen to encounter a particular woman while in the land of snow and ice. How would Verial talk his way out of that one? How could he deny her the right to take Deanna DiCorvino into her custody to be brought before that puny twerp of a king Elias for execution for her crimes. This time the execution would take place, Layla swore silently to herself.

The Lady of Bariston fell asleep with a smile on her lips.

Arnim was always a little uneasy when walking around Bariston due to the misfortune his family name brought him. The general public was usually fairly kind to him given the actions he took to mend his father's numerous crimes. However, the nobility often treated him like the dirt beneath their boots, since he was an outcast by his own hand. The gentry likely saw the punishment his family received as a consequence they preferred to ignore. He had no regrets, duty demanded he turn over all the damning evidence to prove the execution was justified.

His sister Ashley proudly put her merchant vessel Blueheart, at the disposal of Elved for acquiring needed supplies. She still made some profit but, to keep her sailors fed and clothed money was a necessity. However, her financial turnover was much lower than the other merchant vessels. They visited whenever Ashley came in for shore leave in Bariston. She was thrilled to make so many trips to Eiler where she could see her first love Madrin Kir often. That man had changed their fate just by walking into their lives four years ago. He had become a valuable friend to both the Gulwin siblings even though he broke Ashley's heart back then. The warriors honesty allowed the pain to heal quicker, though Arnim's sister did take a few months to recover.

The journeyman smith smiled at the memory because, Madrin never did accept the truth of fated moments. Galenous must think Madrin didn't need to understand the order of the universe to remain a thread in the tapestry of time. Arnim prayed silently for his friend. "Galenous please keep the stubborn fool safe." The former noble knew his god didn't listened to every little prayer but, it gave him peace of mind.

Arnim used his skill with metal to full advantage in creating new weapons and armor for the Elved soldiers. When not working in smithies he put his all into clearing away rubble all over Bariston. When you hammer steel for years strength will grow exponentially. Also, he spent a few hours every day keeping his combat abilities sharp. Madrin had stressed the importance of training everyday while he acted as head bodyguard for the Gulwins. During the months of information gathering for presenting the siblings case, the clan fighter saved their lives several times. The criminals that dealt with their father weren't about to give up without causing trouble.


Arnim was amazed at the progress of the reconstruction efforts in the capital of Elved. Weeks flew by as the buildings took shape once again. He did wonder on the state of his old home Garis town. One night he took the time to write a letter to his cousin who worked in the remains of the city of watermills.

Greetings Michael,

I hope this letter finds you well, in the years since I last saw the Gray Owl fly above the Magistrates home. That is in the past now, I've moved on. Hopefully your family has been well, I'd bet your son is taller than me now. You must be busier than ever now as a stonemason of great skill. However, I want to find out about the construction efforts progress in Garis town. I await your response with anticipation.
Galenous be with you,
Arnim

After closing the note with his personal red wax seal, a simple hammer, he went to bed in the small room he shared with several other displaced men. He wondered to himself what fate had in store for the next morning.

Their dinner complete the Lady of Elved was soon escorting them through the war ravaged city towards what had become their make shift hospital, a small tavern that had managed to survive though not unscathed. As they walked through the streets Layla told them more of the city of Bariston, pausing in front of the location where the new hospital was being crafted on the site of the old. As she spoke of the unfortunate choices of her father the fae healer only nodded gently in commiseration. She had less than favorable feelings about her own father.

Upon reaching the tavern they were escorted within and introduced to the head healer, Lily. Meeting the woman's eyes as Layla introduced her as a fellow healer she inclined her head in the utmost respect for the healer who had obviously been working tirelessly to see to the needs of the people of Bariston. As Brina quite understood it wasn't just a matter of tending those injured in the war but also of seeing to those who fell ill afterward. Life did not stop because of a catastrophe, it did not care that the city was attempting to recover. People still grew sick, they still got injured, or, happily, needed assistance with birthing. It was her hope that she would be able to ease some of the burden this woman carried and, when Layla fell silent, she spoke as much.

”I will do whatever is in me power to help ye, Lady Lily.”

Then Layla was speaking again, instructing that they were to be housed in the tavern in quarters upstairs before asking that Brina and Alexien accept her hospitality. They had stated they did not wish to be a burden once, the Lady of Bariston was not required to offer again, to refuse a second time would border on rudeness and she would not show her gratitude for the Lady's generosity thus. Besides, residing upstairs worked in her favor as she fully intended to get to work in the tavern turned hospital as soon as possible. With that in mind another inclination of her head was offered, this time a nod of acquiescence in Layla's direction.

”As you wish M'Lady. We are very grateful for ye generosity.”

Truth be told it would be nice to sleep in a real bed, however humble. Having accepted her generosity Layla was soon saying her good nights and leaving the pair in their new, albeit temporary, lodgings. The Lady truly did need sleep and a wish for her peaceful rest was offered from the priestess as she departed. In the next instance they were being bustled upstairs by Lily where she showed them the small, modest, room where they would be lodged. It was definitely no frills, a bed just large enough for the both of them, a small dresser, and stand with a basin and pitcher of water atop it. It was simple and it suited them just fine. They were not ones to worry over material things when their were far more important issues at hand.

Left alone she was soon bustling about the room and, rather than settling in for the night, she was shedding whatever unnecessary clothing she still wore such as her cloak and vest, leaving her in only the dark brown breeches and white tunic she wore beneath. Her gilded blonde hair was already braided in a thick plait down her back so it took only moments for her to pin it into a crown on her head to prevent it from getting in her way. She could feel Alexien's gaze on her as she began to unpack the satchel that held her healing supplies. It wasn't nearly what was needed but it would at least allow her to get a start on the work load Lily was managing downstairs. Her supplies assembled in the smaller sack she typically carried she turned to face her husband who stood watching her with a bemused expression on his face.

He knew better than to ask what she intended. He knew his wife and was aware she would not rest until she had gone downstairs and done what she could for those in need. He also knew it was best not to try to talk her out of it, too. Slinging the sack over her shoulder she approached Alexien, her hands rising to rest upon his chest as she turned her peridot gaze up to meet his.

”Ye know I have t'do this, m'love. I promise, I will'na work myself ill. Doubtful ye'll listen t'me but ye should rest. Ye job starts in the morning and ye'll need ye strength.”

His task could not be started until the dawn when the soldiers assembled and she was right, he would need his rest. She only hoped he listened as she slid her hands up to cup his face before drawing him down for a gentle kiss.

”I love ye, husband,”she whispered softly against his lips before sliding her hands from his face. Would he listen to her and seek rest as she had suggested, she wondered as she made her way back down into the main room of the tavern where Lily yet worked tirelessly for those who needed her. She hoped so but upon entering the sick room her attention shifted to the task at hand and she got to work. Hospitals of this nature were typically the same everywhere so rather than bother Lily with a request for instruction she simply set to work where her presence was needed.

For the next few hours she moved from one person to the next, administering an herbal drought here, debriding and bandaging a wound there. She did not just offer the physical assistance with healing, either, and it was soon obvious the healer had a little something extra at her disposal. It wasn't miraculous, the sick and injured would still need to go through the healing process, but she could help ensure that they ~would~ heal and in some instances she could speed up the process.

For those with wounds that resisted healing she left beneath their pillow an enchanted piece of soft green chrysroprase; a stone that possessed healing properties she herself amplified with her own magic. For the soldier who had sustained a minor wound that had been initially treated successfully but who later succumbed to a blood disease brought on by the wound she left a piece of enchanted amethyst in the hopes it would assist in ridding his blood of the infection. It wasn't just the wounded that needed tending, either. There was bedding that needed washing, old sheets and the like that had been scavenged that needed to be torn and bundled into the bandages they would soon become, and she set her self to whatever task was most needful. It was a lot of work for just a few healers but they all did what they could and it was in that silent resilience that Brina became even more certain that this place was the right one for them.

When Lily became aware of her presence she wasn't sure but soon the two women were working in concert with little need to discuss things. They both knew what needed doing and set about doing it, plain and simple, though she did notice the look of relief in Lily's eyes as her burden began to ease somewhat. The weary healer might even get some rest soon, if Brina continued to work as tirelessly and efficiently as she was.

Dawn was lightening the dark night sky to a pale gray when Lily finally placed her hand on Brina's shoulder, admonishing her to get some rest. She had just arrived in town the previous evening, after all, and had traveled a great distance to get there. It was clear the fae woman would need some rest but she had yet to complain or ask for a break. Others were arriving to man the “day shift”, as it were, and Lily assured her they could spare her for a few hours but the stubborn Irish woman refused to go until Lily promised she would be summoned should their be more injured or ill and they become overwhelmed.

As she made her weary way out of the main tavern room turned sick-ward she caught a glimpse of herself in a small mirror and grimaced good-naturedly at the image she presented, her blond hair still coiled atop her head but only barely as several tendrils fell about her shoulders, the braid in imminent danger of falling. Her once white tunic was stained with blood and various other fluids she had no intentions on speculating about. It was all worth it, though, when she saw those injured or sick who turned a grateful smile her way, some of them already appearing to be improving.

Idly she wondered if she would find Alexien awake when she returned to their room. She had not seen him in the main tavern room so it was anyone's guess if he had actually taken her advice and gotten some rest. Easing into the room quietly, just in case, she stopped short when she did not see Alexien but saw the tub filled with warm water that he had, himself, procured and filled knowing she would need a good soak when finished with her task. She didn't pause to questions he merely began stripping and didn't stop until she was easing into the tub with a sigh of profound thanks just as the door opened and Alexien appeared with a loaf of bread, a large piece of cheese, and a skin of wine intended to serve as their shared breakfast. It was simple repast but neither of them seemed to care about such things.

As she bathed he began preparing for his own day and once she had removed herself from the tub, albeit reluctantly, they shared their simple breakfast and Alexien prepared to depart. Again she found herself standing before him, her arms about his neck as they again said their farewells, this time with Alexien preparing to depart while he admonished her to get some rest.

”I promise, I will get some rest though I canna promise how much,”she teased though she was being quite honest. With another whispered “I love you” Alexien was off to see what he could do to help the people of their new home as she crawled into bed to get the promised few hours of rest before heading back downstairs.

As she laid back on the pillows that held a lingering trace of Alexien's scent she sighed, oddly content. Their arrival in Elved, and Aleris in general, had not been what she'd expected but somehow she did not mind. These people had suffered much but still came together to heal and rebuild and they had taken them in without question and made them at home.

Maybe this time it would truly become home.

The cold winds of winter blew against the shutters of Arnim's little piece of Bariston. His two roommates were still abed since they were late risers. The young smith had a dreamless sleep, at least as far as he remembered. A little snow fell overnight, so he decided to shovel the walk before heading out in the city that morning. He could have shared the labor but, he simply viewed it as a different morning exercise. He enjoyed the feeling of the crisp breeze on his face, while he worked sleep out thru physical exertion.

After he finished the first chore of the day he set out for his usual jog. He noticed the Bariston soldiers had a new trainer, an older man than seemed to have the knowledge necessary. It was a little nostalgic for Arnim since he was trained at first by a group of veteran soldiers that served his father's household. He hoped they found something that suited their skills properly, since his family no longer had the money to support bodyguards. However, if they took his advice they retired to something more peaceful.

The eldest of the Gulwin siblings had no interest in being part of the army. The man had higher aspirations, but was not yet deserving of entering Galenous' priesthood. In time he might even be able to rise to the rank of his god's Judge. In preparation he had sworn of killing except in the direst of circumstances. The universe had rules that must be followed or chaos would rein. Some may think that kind of freedom was the best possible future. However, Arnim knew better order and chaos must coexist or else devastation would come to everything.

These thoughts circulated thru his mind until his morning jog came to an end in front of the smithy where he plied his skills daily. The evening came before he knew it while he made nails for construction. Such tools were essential, despite lacking the attention that weapons and armor always garnered. Once Arnim returned home, he found his cousin Michael had already replied by carrier pigeon to his letter that was sent off just this morning by the same means. The note eased his mind as it explained that Garis Town's reconstruction was progressing well. The residents that escaped to Vandual had trickled back as time passed. The town of watermills was well on its way to recovery.

That meant Arnim only needed to find out about Shimmer's condition. Unfortunately, he had no contacts there. The fighter would head out to the stable and purchase a mount with his savings first thing in the morning. He had lived in Bariston for the past four years as an apprentice to a grizzled master blacksmith. Now it was time for him to finally leave the capital behind. He was sure that sleep wouldn't come easy that night. However, the man was still excited to leave the security of a developed city. Madrin Kir taught them survival in his time with Arnim and Ashley, the elder was confident in his training. The world was a big place, stepping out your door was only the beginning.

Neera knocked quietly upon the door that led into her mistress’ personal study before entering. The tray she so carefully balanced in one hand held a teapot, a small jar of honey and two cups. The Lady Layla Victoire enjoyed her afternoon tea, but disliked drinking it alone. Since Sahar had chosen to follow Verial Akilara to Arthuran, Neera had found herself taking up the role of the magae as a confidant and friend, though the young girl knew she could never substitute the sister-like bond the two shared.

Rising from the ranks of a mere handmaiden, Neera had quickly adopted herself into her new position with great pride. Gone was the young maid who was once previously giggly and foppish, the girl who flirted with every and any of Bariston’s guardsmen that she could. Gone was the girl who lazed about on her duties, preferring to gossip with the kitchen staff while stealing freshly baked cherry tarts. The past few months had taken their toll on Layla who had such a strength and resolve to see her beloved city rebuilt and thriving once more, and upon seeing this Neera had decided it was high past time to grow up and act accordingly, to be responsible and mature in her acts and thinking. Her efforts did not go to waste. Layla who had once scoffed the girl’s immature ways, had indeed noticed the change in Neera, and welcomed it.

She set the tray down upon the circular table where the Lady of Bariston was seated, the newest edition of The Chronicle spread out before her. Neera rolled her eyes as she began to pour, taking note of the particular section of the paper in which Layla was seemingly absorbed by.

“My Lady, why do you insist upon reading such trash? Tis nothing more than garbage written by those idiots in the City.”

“Layla,” the blonde woman corrected without looking up as she scanned the last paragraph of the Rumors section. “And there is far more truth in this ‘trash’, than you may think, Neera.” Layla set the paper aside and smiled as she reached for the steaming cup and added a dollop of honey to sweeten it. “Besides, idle gossip has to come from somewhere does it not? Sift through it enough and you will find what is true or not. Now sit down and talk to me.” The grey eyed woman blew on her tea while Neera obligingly occupied the chair next to her, a slightly sly look in those eyes. “How is Miles today, my dear?”

Neera dumped about half the pot of honey into her tea and felt her cheeks burn as she ducked her head, a small smile forming. “The Captain is well my La...Layla. We broke our fast together this morn, and tomorrow evening, Miles asked me to accompany him to The Red Crow Tavern for dinner.” Neera cleared her throat before taking a sip of tea, her cheeks rosy. “I...was surprised, Layla. He’s never asked me to dinner before.”

Layla chuckled then. “Well you’ve allowed him into your bed for some time now, my dear. Surely that warrants a dinner now and then, does it not?” She tilted her head a bit in consideration, “Besides, I’ve heard the food is wonderful there. One day I might have to pay it a visit myself.” With great affection, Layla patted the girl on the arm. “Neera my dear, it is high time he made an honest woman out of you. Do not think that just because you give yourself so freely to him, that I have not seen the looks Miles shoots you when you are not aware, Neera. Our young Captain is smitten by your charms, in more ways than one it would seem.” Layla settled back against her chair, cup in hand. “And despite your past ways, I know Neera that you’ve allowed Miles, and Miles alone to enter your bed. That must count for something.”


The younger woman nearly choked on her tea and hastily set the cup down before she spilled anymore. “Um...yes,” Neera stammered as she blotted her lips. “Anyway...,” desperate to change the subject, she jerked her head toward newspaper. “Did you find anything of interest?”

Layla’s smiled faded some around the edges, her tone chilled somewhat as she spoke, “Indeed I have. Many, many fascinating bits of interesting news.”

“Uh oh. You have that look in your eyes again Layla. I’ve seen that look before. What are you planning?”

Layla Victoire merely chuckled before sipping once more. “When the time is right, my sweet Neera, I shall tell you. In the meantime, have patience.” Layla finished her tea and set her cup aside. “Now tell me, have you heard from the Lady Brina or the Priest? Are they adjusting well enough in Bariston?” Layla was loathe to admit that she had seen very little of the newcomers in the past few weeks. Busy with the newly rebuilt shipyard, not to mention the final stages of completion with the hospital, Layla had little time for a social visit. She was sure that Lady Brina was settling in nicely at the newly constructed hospital, while Father Alexian was most assuredly giving her Captain Pennington and fellow soldiers, a run for their money concerning military tactics.

Layla prided herself on having a highly efficient and well trained army of men and women proudly serving and protecting Bariston, but after the near decimation of her beloved city and birthplace, the ruling Lady of Bariston found a blessing in disguise when the Kincades chose to come upon her doorstep. Alexian was more than capable and qualified to school her soldiers to become the very best of the best, the elite. Never again would Bariston fall to anyone or anything ever again. As it was, special forces were stationed in small groups surrounding Bariston in watch stations that were scattered around the city’s perimeter. Layla had considered walling the city, but that would invoke fear in her people, not to mention a feeling of imprisonment which Layla would not have.

“Oh! The housing projects to the west have been completed as well! Citizens are already starting to relocate themselves into their new homes,” Neera’s enthusiastic statement drew Layla from her reverie and the Lady smiled warmly upon hearing that. “And you will be happy to know that we now have five airships as well as a small fleet of naval military vessels at hand, ready for your disposal.” This thrilled Layla more than anything, for crews of men had worked tirelessly to rebuild what was lost. It was not only Layla who felt defenseless without proper protection; her people felt it as well, and were determined to do all they could to preserve their feeling of security. There were no shortage of laborers for all were eager to do whatever was necessary for their city, its people, and its defense.

“What of our fishing vessels?” Bariston relied heavily upon commercial fishing for their economy. The loss of hundreds of boats was a heavy blow to Bariston.

“Nearly a hundred, Layla have been completed with more supplies heading to Bariston as we speak.”Neera was grinning then, pleased to deliver Layla such joyous and hopeful news, her grin widening upon seeing the light in her Lady’s eyes, the broadly beamed smile that transformed Layla’s face into something soft and lovely. The Lady of Bariston quickly rose and grabbed Neera by her arm, dragging the poor girl to her feet as she ushered both out the door.

“Let’s go have a look shall we?” There no disguising the excitement in Layla’s voice as both women made preparations to travel the short distance to the Port. It had taken time, effort, great patience and most of all...hope, but all had paid off in the end. The people of Bariston would have their pride back, and all that had been sacrificed would not be in vain. “Perhaps on our way back, we can stop at the hospital to pay Lady Brina our respects, maybe invite her and Father Alexian to dinner tonight?” Layla’s good mood was infectious and Neera bobbed her head happily as they left the high walls of the mansion, making their way into the City.

Luck and the gods were on her side. Retribution was at hand, and nothing or no one was going to stand in Layla Victoire’s way.

The hospital was finally complete. For weeks Brina and the other healers had made the best of what they had, the little Tavern and Inn turned Emergency Hospital had served its purpose valiantly, but it was time to move their operation to it's proper location. The builders were still putting the finishing touches on the hospital when the more ambulatory of their patients were moved to the new facility as the unfinished bits were mostly cosmetic in nature. Those who required more assistance with the move took a little more time but those patients were in the minority, these days.

Since the day Brina had arrived in Bariston and had been shown to the temporary hospital by the Lady of Elved she had worked alongside the other healers to see to it that those injured by the attacks on their beloved town healed as quickly as possible. Luckily her knowledge of herbal medicine had helped that task along though by all accounts her remedies worked a bit more efficiently than they typically would otherwise. Almost like magic. So much so that whispered rumors were soon circulating the hospital that the healer known as Brina was more than she claimed to be. Brina was aware of the speculation surrounding her healing technique but thus far the whispered rumors were merely curious in nature and without malevolence so she said nothing.

Regardless of how she healed the fact remained that she did heal and many of their number had improved enough to be released from the hospital with her care. The Lady of Elved checked on them periodically, seeing that they had all they needed (what could be obtained anyway) to see to their patients. It was plain to Brina that Layla loved her home dearly and would do anything to see it returned to it's former state. Such dedication and loyalty touched the fae healer (though she largely kept her lineage to herself unless directly asked) and only fed her desire to help Layla heal her land and the people in it.

Moving day is chaotic regardless of the circumstances and it tends to be even more so within medical facilities. The new hospital was beautiful, spacious, and would provide a fully functional, yet peaceful, place for their patients to recover. Even so, getting the patients settled in their respective wards as well as assigning the healers, nurses, and assistants to the wards they were meant to care for, in addition to arranging supplies for each floor, it all amounted to a somewhat controlled chaos. The healer Brina had been presented to that first night, Lily, was the one in charge, barking out orders and shouting instructions as she tried to see everything settled. Brina did what she could, where she could, seeing a need and tending to it without being asked in an attempt to lighten Lily's load as well as see the patients settled with as little stress as possible.

Her working rapport with Lily was quite good, each healer having a quiet respect for the other, which allowed the two women to work together without ego to see to the needs of those in their care. Most of her time was spent in the hospital, these days, Alexien being kept just as busy with the Bariston guard. Each had taken to their duties with the same single minded focus that had seen them excel within the Order, in spite of the prejudices she had endured among their ranks. Still, she missed her husband. They saw one another to be sure, but for only small periods at a time, in passing, or in the brief moments before they fell asleep. She had just finished settling a more critical patient into their new hospital bed, smoothing the sheets over his chest, before straightening up to her whopping 5'4 height, peridot eyes turning to the nearby window that was letting streaming arcs of golden sunlight into the room. It was beautiful and she knew in her soul that the exposure to the sun and elements would help those in this ward heal.

It also ignited within her a desire to leave the confines of the walls and simply take off in the woods. Where was Alexien at that moment, she wondered? She hoped wherever he was he was in the sun, thinking of her. Lost in thought she barely noticed Lily bustling up to her side, muttering beneath her breath as she did so, until Brin was drawn from her day dreams to turn her focus to the disgruntled healer.

”Who has annoyed ye now, Lily?” she asked with humor lacing her lilting brogue. Lily could not help but smile in response to the accent that was still strange to her ears before revealing just what had ruffled her feathers.

”Those young nitwits are all in a dither because we received word that Lady Layla will be paying us a visit today. Now they are useless to me! Can't focus on a darn thing. I have them folding bandages now. It's all they are good for now!”

Brina's smile widened at Lily's casual mention of Layla's impending arrival at the hospital. It would be good to see the Lady of Elved again, to be able to show her how beautiful her hospital had turned out as well as how happy the patients were to be there. Already their spirits had lifted just being moved from the damaged Tavern and Inn. It was more than just a place to convalesce to them. It was proof that Bariston, and Elved, would rise from the ashes, that they were going to survive. It was also further proof that their Lady cared for them and was doing all she could for them.

”They are just star struck, Lily. She's their lady, 'tis natural, it is. Besides it will do th' patients good ta' see her here.”

With an affectionately supportive pat of her hand to the other healer's shoulder she turned and set about her business. There were other patients that needed to be seen too. Medical care did not stop just because it was moving day and they still had a lot to do. Knowing that Layla was on the way she was determined to see as much of it set to rights as she could before the Lady arrived. She had worked hard to see this hospital built and Brina wanted to show her just what she had accomplished.

Before Layla would arrive, Lily and Brina would get another unexpected guest, but maybe not so unexpected. They did, after all, work in a hospital and people were bound to get injured and sick. Healing was frequently needed in Bariston and around the rest of Aleris, a job that should have never been quiet. If Brina and Lily had been expecting a bit of respite and peace from the move, it was not to be had.

With a wail that could compete with a banshee, a man stumbled into the hospital limping on one leg, both of his hands unfortunately cradling a single butt cheek. His howling was loud and woke a few of the other patients who were trying to rest and despite his limp, he appeared to dance back and forth anxiously between the two women, dripping blood from between fingers.

At long last, he began to speak, fumbling over words as he did so.

"Y-YOU GOTTA H-H-HELP ME!" the man said with a trembling lip. "Me and my buddy, we... we were playing a little bit of a drinkin' game and and... things got c-carried away! Next thing I know, he's stabbing me in the arse! Not once, but three blasted times!"

Before either could protest, the man turned around revealing a small dagger that was still lodged in his butt cheek that he had been cradling. There wasn't much to hide. Because he was stabbed repeatedly, the seat of his pants had been shredded giving Brina and Lily a nice few of his bloody rear end. Next to the dagger were two identical wounds where he had been stabbed.

"Get it out! PUH-LEEEASSSE!"