Stepping out of the lordship's office, she paused a moment in the hall, her ocean colored gaze tracking a few of the robed forms moving past. She had been called back from a job and now wondered why. She wasn't a bloody baby sitter, but it appeared she was to become one for a while. Eyes narrowing in irritation she strode off towards her own rooms within the Order. She had been here since she was 15 years old, on and off and in truth it was home to her now.

"Sorcha" Do ye have a moment?" Falcon seemed to materialize a few feet from her and she stopped instantly to look silently at him. She didn't know why he wanted to speak with her, but she gave a sharp nod of her dark head.

"Can you check on one of the girls when ye arrive" Simply send a message to let me know how she fairs?" He requested quietly with those unusual eyes of his holding a somber tinge to the glittering depths.

"As ye wish Milord." Already waiting for him to give her name, as she knew the place was likely thick with all sorts of "girls".

"Her name is Rhian. She's one of Lord DeAuster's girls. I simply want to be sure she is being cared for."

Ah, Sorcha had heard some rumors about this and her response was another quiet nod. Fallon had remained in the safety of the Order upon the Queen's request and most of the operatives were aware of the causes. Someone was seeking the power core of Zymire, which was a most serious and for many troubling situation. All those within the Duibh Order were to keep and eye out for anyone that might possibly involved and thus far had learned little.

"Thank ye Sorcha. I appreciate ye taking the time out to do this for me." He made a weak effort of a smile towards her and was gone, just that quick and silently. A feat many might find unsettling, but as she was well used to the ways of many adapts here now.

Into her own quarters she then strolled, already pondering just how long she would be forced to play a guard to her leader's grandchildren.

The frown deepened on her features for a moment, having also heard quite a bit about that family. She herself had come up through the ranks in the shadow of their mother, a woman who was close to being legendary in the history of the Order. It was also a well-known fact that Rhystil didn't care much for his son-in-law or his various practices.

In truth it had been a while since she heard anything about the children. She knew they had two, but the ages were uncertain. She remembered hearing that they were both rather unruly and willful, but most children were. That very nature had forced her own family to send her here. Of course Lord DeWil did often comment about how lax their sire was in controlling them.

Those memories of brief snatches of conversation made her just mutter darkly as she started to throw some belongings into a large travel trunk. It looked as if her job was going to be far more difficult then she liked. She was to be a guard for that pair now, and the prospect was not sitting well.

Gloved fingers moved to idly toy with the silver brace on her left wrist. It was a symbol of one of the last mistakes she had ever made. She suspected it was that very mistake which seemed to make Rhystil feel she was the best one suited for this job. Stormy sea-blue eyes narrowed with a stony expression at the reminder. She might not like this new contract, but she would make sure the job would be done efficiently. Even if it meant locking both of those kids up with enchanted chains to keep them from running off to possible death or worse.

It didn't take her that long to finish up the packing, having returned just a few hours before she had nearly everything she needed. Pulling the travel documents out of her back pocket, she looked over the itinerary, making note of the departure and was relieved to see she had a few hours still. That would be enough time to take care of some personal business before she boarded the ship. Author's Note: The Title of this story, "Sg?ils a'd Cuimhne Riamh" means "Shadows of Memory Past."

The few forms walking along at a casual and sedate pace caught her gaze, with the elegantly adorned ladies in their silks and the men in their great coats. She was adorned in her usual leathers and would be damned if she would change. Not for what should be a hopefully short meeting with her father. Sorcha also had the excuse of time being against her anyway. She had but two hours before she was to board the ship that would carry her away.

Minavyar was the royal seat of Zymire. Located upon an isle just south west of the main continent, much of the city was built upon terrain that was made of sheer rock that rose up from the sea a good sixty feet. Roads leading from the municipality had been carved literally from the granite plateau in which it was placed. It had been stated though the various historical intellectuals that the placement had been no accident. It made it a highly defendable position by both land and sea. A history that remained in the tall towers that still loomed all around the edges of queen's holding.

It left little room for growth in some instances, but in the matter of all things, the inhabitants found ways. Some of the lower land areas were considered a part and fell into the laws that governed.

It was the hub of Zymire society, as one would expect. Sporting all the amities that one might wish for. Both the good and the bad roamed the streets while openly political play was handled mostly within the tall bleached marble walls of the massive castle. The structure rising up and overlooking the perilous rocky shoals along the base of the cliffs it dominated. Some called it impressive, but even from a fair distance one could see those very walls shimmering in the light of the sun above.

Long strides carried her along the well-kept walk as the carts, carriages and horse and rider moved back and forth along cobbled pavements. Around her she caught the soft scent of the sea with a hint of a chill in it's offering. Wintersweet and Viburnum 'Dawn' wafted in the air, flowing across the main thoroughfares with the scent reminiscent of honeysuckle and rose blending from the large park nearby.

Sunlight danced through the cover of clouds on high, sending brighter splashes of light playing over the quaint buildings lining this area of town. Stone and brick buildings set in colors of muted pale tones with windows gleaming with near purity, as this was one of the upscale residential locals of the vast city. Flower boxes laden with winter blooms adding to the over all serenity the place eluded too.

Sorcha knew better. Many an intrigue had started behind those innocently seeming walls. What may seem too obvious upon the surface seldom held that illusion as time past. Brokers of life and death walked these streets and many carried the facade of respectability with was also another mask in it's own right.

Pausing to draw out her travel papers upon reaching the well-guarded gates that led into the sweeping courtyard of the grand castle, "Lileeagh M"rrach". The name meant "White Lily Castle" and had been thus before the "Time of Memory". Yet, the moniker itself was curious, do the use of "M"rrach' unlike the usual "caisteal, which bespoke of magic and mysterious enchantments that the various legends made mention.

After a very brief inspection, she was surprised she wasn't stripped her weapons as was the usual custom. Of course it was always likely that Queen Bronwyn wasn't in residence at present. The lady had a number of holdings across the realm of Zymire so might possibly be in one of those other locations. It was either that or perhaps it was her name, neither of which actually mattered to Sorcha. She didn't plan to linger long in any event.

Using the side entrance as directed, she stepped into the darkened foyer with a quick blinking of stormy aquamarine eyes. Adjusting to the sudden and rather abrupt alteration of light upon her senses. A hushed stately silence settled heavily around her as she took stock of her surroundings. Unlike the exterior, this wing of the massive Castle was decorated in darker shades of gleaming wood and stone. Elegant yet with a certain understated power that seemed to permeate the area.

Passing along the sturdy but artistically crafted chairs of rich green brocade towards her father's chamber of offices, she glanced around with a stoic expression. Sorcha felt rather out of place in such surroundings. She was far more used to the nefarious locals of such large cities then the actual palaces found in many.

She had made the ship with plenty of time to spare and just settled into the cabin that would be hers for the 3 to 4 days this journey required. While her mastery of shadows was better then most, her age limited her to some degree. She could travel great distances in minutes but over water was just a bit beyond her. She however knew all the others also had limits as well. Also, with the few select portals in the realm acting strangely, she had little interest in using those either. In other words, she really had no other choice but to travel in the more traditional ways.

Taking up one of the books she had collected earlier, she dropped smoothly into a chair and just stretched her legs out to rest on the bed and started to read. It was surprising to realize the actual similar traits she had with Fiona. Scanning over the ledger that was really old reports she was searching for one in particular. The one regarding the very family that was causing so many to become concerned, however she was getting caught up in something else she had not realized. Rhystil's daughter was half elvin with a darker side most left undefined.

A faint frown at that, having not known of that, but then again, it made sense suddenly just why she had been taken into the Order without a question. It would seem they had experience in dealing with such natures and she knew only to well the methods now in controlling it.

As it was, she displayed the gifts of shadow play pretty early on. Something her mother hadn't much liked, but couldn't seem to control her. She had also been a rather wild child. Didn't pay mind when she should. When she was 15 years old, she and her mother had a rather violent fight and in her foolish snit, she had run away from home. Children were often stupid that way. It hadn't been any great adventure she found, but something akin to utter misery really. A glance at the brace again as she let her memories wander.

She had ended up enslaved. It hadn't been any normal sort of service either. It hadn't been about sex or labor, but of death and fighting. Thrown out into a pit for the entertainment of nobles. Facing off against others that had more experience and it was by sheer luck or fury one might survive it. She had. She had taken more then a few lives in the name of survival and even now didn't regret it. There hadn't been any choices to be made. Pity wasn't a known commodity in such places, at least not by the ones used for that form of sport.

From what she had been told later, she had been trapped in the games for about six months when her father found her. By then, her demon had taken over. The elvin side buried down deep inside the hosting body. She didn't remember any of that time now. She knew they had fought to bring her back from the abyss, having been told of it. She had awareness that her parents had waged war over her. Had it not been for her grandfather, she would have likely been taken by her father to realms few had visited.

Her grandfather had arranged for Lord DeWil to take her instead. Something her father had relented to, due to family ties, while her mother had railed against it. In fact it had been the Order that had somehow managed to find a way to repair what had been shattered and she had been there ever since.

Due to the region being at war, she had to endure the registration upon landing at the harbor in Cisroe. Sorcha's sea colored eyes giving the guard questioning her an even, impassive stare. "State your name."

Words husky from lack of use over the three days of travel. "Lady Sorcha Zelari Mirawien."

He never even looked up, simply printed her name down on the ledger and then continued. "State your location of departure."

"Zymire."

"Don't get many Zymiran's here these days. State your business." Still asking the questions from a script she was certain.

"I am here to visit family in the west. " Her own response was a little detached now, as she was rather bored with this routine.

"The name of the family." That droning voice was irritating her but at the question she gave a cold little smile, certain he was about to sit up tense at her reply.

"DeAuster." She added nothing more but didn't need to, as he did tense up and finally looked at her. She didn't lie, as there was a blood connection, as her father was related to Fiona's Mother. There was also another fainter blood line via the queen's family via marriage once or twice removed.

With a sudden snap of the leather wallet holding her papers, it was quickly handed over. "Have a nice visit Milady."

She did stroll away with a low laugh and was soon making arrangements for her trunk to be sent on to the destination, knowing the name alone would ensure it wasn't hindered or damaged either. She wasn't worried about anything being stolen from it, as few would have the skill to crack the lock or dispel the shadow magic traps it was also laden with, so that never was a concern.

It was about a four days ride to the lands of Gharnholme, but she wasn't actually going to spend that time in an uncomfortable carriage, pressed up far to tight against strangers. She could get close enough and after a brief rest, finish the journey by morning. So slinging the pack she had kept with her to a shoulder, she glided off to find a quiet alley where she would slip unseen into the shadow paths.

Thus far she could manage about a three days journey in about an hour, anything further and she stressed her body too much. When one was heading for a job that simply wasn't done as it could make one sloppy.

The time moved fast and she was soon slipping free of the dark embrace with her trim form already feeling the mild ache often left when she pushed the distance. Brushing back the chocolate brown hair she took a quick searching look around. The road was empty and quiet, with a chilly wind flowing along the curve ahead.

Unsure of how far or how close she was, she sent out mental feelers, soon finding that first brushing of emotion and energy perhaps five miles west. Slinging the pack up high on a leather clad shoulder, she started the walk that would carry her there. Using it to ease the tightness in her sore muscles.

Due to the early hour she settled her debts with the inn swiftly and with ease and was soon on her way once more, taking the road on foot and again moving in the direction towards the keep. It wasn't to long before the area was clear and she could slip inside the waiting shadows, which was always easier going into them, then the exiting. So quick then, as the keep wasn't near as far now and in about ten minutes she was sliding free, a fair distance from the very gates themselves.

Her sharp eyes caught the array of wards that surrounded the place and even detected some that would alert those within of unknown shadow movement. It was an unusual and curious thing to see, as few tried to protect against that, but she could understand it given current events in play.

It was the voice behind her that sent her spinning around with a hand drawing the dagger from a high boot. "Ah, tis good to see ye again Sorcha. I was wondering when ye would arrive."

The woman stepped silently from the shade with the strands falling away like black wisps from her form and gave a faint smile even as the icy green eyes swung pointedly towards the dagger now in the younger girl's hand.

Lowering the blade, she shot a baffled look over at Fiona with a brow arching. "I didn't sense ye coming."

That only brought another cryptic curling of rose pale lips and a slow nod. "That be something ye may need to work on, however I have long since mastered the shade so my methods are a bit more refined." Then added quietly. "Tis" unlikely ye will need worry about an attack from such venues, but there be time to discuss that once we get ye settled in." She moved with a natural stealth that Sorcha felt a brief stab of envy at the easy way she stepped. Few she had seen had that sort of deadly grace.

"Aye Milady. Tis" good to see ye again as well." Finding her voice she slipped into step beside her, but could hear the faint crunch of her boot on the stony surface beneath it. Her wince was unseen thankfully as the lady kept on walking, moving closer to the tall black gates ahead.

That first look at the place and Sorcha could only think it actually fit the image she had created in her mind. Tall and looming it set high on a cliff with thick heavy walls surrounding it. It was certainly in a very tactical position as well. Easy to defend and also catch sight of any coming towards it.

"What be ye range of travel in the shade Sorcha?" Out of the blue the question caught her off guard as she pulled her attention away from the sight of that keep and back to Fiona.

"I can move about four days ride from most locations." Wondering why that was of interest, as even some of the Elders could only mange five.

"I see. Well, as Daniel and Cieara are currently with their father, that be about a five day journey to the north. We will simply have to make a few shorter hops to get there by this afternoon."

That surprised Sorcha as she had fully expected Fiona and her Lord to be keeping the children close to their fortress home. "Ah, I have nae done that before Milady." Nod adding she was accustom to pushing the limit, hoping her body would eventually adjust to the abuse.

Sorcha's eyes instantly narrowed at that and she leaned to place the cup down before her grip would shatter it. "Ah, let me see if I get this straight, ye want me to act weak?" One of the few masquerades over the years she had managed to avoid, and wasn't sure she could stomach it to spare the sensibilities of two obviously spoiled and uncontrolled kids.

"Nae. Ye best not act weak with either of them, most especially my son as he would seek to exploit it as he is much like his father in many things. Simply let them think they will be showing ye the ropes. As a guest they would be less likely to. . " She paused a moment, searching for a word. "Ditch ye, as they commonly say."

The tension eased from her then and she gave a short nod. "That I can manage." Not many could actually read her, as she didn't tend to emit much in the way of mood or emotion, with the exception of anger, as that did occasionally slip past her barriers.

"They have guards now of course, but both have a habit of slipping out of sight. Tis the ability to shadow walk and they do use it. Being young and impulsive they nae always think of what might occur doing such."

"It is true I have never taken part in a war Fiona, and also that we are related. Both will make this fa"ade easier to carry off if ye children carry any of ye own darker nature." It was an indirect way of asking if they did.

"Aye, they both have a darker side Sorcha. Less restrained then mine, but as they do have traits of their father as well, tis to be expected. They were also not raised to hold everything in as I was so ye will find both to be a touch unruly, but nae cruelly so." Drinking more of the hot coffee she glanced over at the young woman. "Contrary to what ye might of learned or been told about my children, they are nae foolish. True they are willful but they have been brought up to be strong. While I know both have secrets, their father and I did not seek to teach them to hide their feelings, but we have sought to temper them.?

Leaning now to place her own cup on the table as Fiona again inspected the young woman her father had sent to watch over her children. The girl was young enough to blend in with her children; she still would have preferred a male for the job.

It wasn't that she thought Sorcha wouldn't manage instead she was rather worried at what trouble might come. Daniel's dark half was far stronger then Cieara's. In fact it was quite nearly on par with some full-blooded demons she knew. A gift likely enhanced by his father's nature she believed. Fiona also knew that Sorcha was another that carried half of that darker side inside, but she wasn't able to discern the power or potential there. The woman was using some rather impressive barriers against such detections.

Sorcha had obviously taken the training regarding masking her nature to heart, but Fiona was conscious of the young woman's past. So she was well aware of the restraints being used. Nevertheless, her time in her uncle's realm made her more then sentient to the nature of the beast. She could only hope this solution worked for the situation and didn't create an even bigger one.

"It would make my being there even more understandable." Sorcha didn't say believable as she felt as if she had been duped herself now. In her mind, she was doubly cursed.

"Aye, it would, but I will say nothing of it, if ye so wish it to remain unknown." Soft and quiet the words but Sorcha just shrugged.

"If it is a fact, then I nae care if they are told." Her head then turning hearing a faint sound coming closer, the ringing of bells it seemed which bounced over the stone walls outside.

Rising from her seat Fiona moved towards the door and drew it open, and a small woman strolled in with a platter of freshly baked cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit. "Good morning ladies."

"Morning to ye as well Myri. This be the young lady I mentioned to ye last evening."

"Ah, lovely to meet ye Lady Sorcha. Welcome to Gharnholme." A warm welcoming smile accompanied her words as she stepped over with a hand extended.

"Sorcha, please meet Myrialla, Lucius's Fiancee, eventually she will become his second wife." The words said almost casually and caused the younger woman to blink a moment.

Rising a little belatedly, she took the small hand and gave it a firm but quick shake and forced a polite smile as she quickly withdrew. "A pleasure to meet ye milady."

"Oh, just call me Myri please. Everyone else does. Ye rooms be ready as well Sorcha, but I will leave ye with Fiona to eat a bit. There be a few things requiring my attentions in the slave quarters. I will come back shortly and escort ye." Another sweet smile and she was moving off with quick yet graceful steps.

"It be a strange world ye have come to Sorcha." There was a hint of amusement in Fiona's softly spoken words and the girl glanced her way.

"I suspected that would be the case. I will adjust easily enough."

While they ate, Fiona filled her in on many things regarding the house and those within it. She learned about Kaelyn. A healer that was involved with Daniel and was also Myri's sister and soon heard about the slaves, acolytes and the warbands in the valley below. She listened intently as it might serve her well later.

Soon settled with a glass of mulled wine she again was looking about. On one side it was a rather opulent set up, while on the other, purely military in its look and design. Her sea-blue gaze moved over the large pallet of pillows and furs towards the camp heater and an area veiled by heavy tapestries.

She wondered to herself where the girl slept when she stayed with her father, seeing only the one bed. Her thoughts more on the strategical value then anything else but didn't actually say it a loud, but was surprised when Fiona answered it anyway.

"On the nights Cieara invades her father's space she sleeps with him there." One elegant gloved hand waving towards the nesting of furs and pillows. There was also a rather wicked gleam in those icy green eyes that Sorcha didn't quite understand. "When it comes to his daughter however, he still carries much of a Paladin's purity."

It took her a moment and she blinked then turned to just stare at Fiona in surprise. Her thoughts hadn't even shifted in that rather shocking direction. Sorcha's own sire was very hedonistic but as was the case with most, he still treated her much as a child. She had suspected Lord DeAuster was much the same. It seemed that was the only time the male species ever showed any signs of love without the lustful intent was when it came to their daughters. Then it tended towards the curious need to protect and coddle.

"I nae understand what ye be meaning Milady. Father's are notorious for treating even their adult daughters as if they were still in leading strings."

That brought laughter falling softly from the dark haired woman and she gave a slow nod. "Aye, that is true. Though there are some that might think otherwise considering our family's rather over blown reputation." A brow arching just a touch then as Fiona paused to take a small sip of the sweet wine. "I am glad ye do understand however. I simply wanted to ensure that by my comment."

"I am sure ye know about my own father, Fiona. Tis" certain he is nae pure by any standards but still has a very different ideal for my own behavior that is nae anything like his own." A dry smile touched Sorcha's pale features for a moment, for that attitude was one of the reasons she didn't like to spend much time in his company.

"Aye, I know Lord Dramman. He be typical of his kind in some aspects but nae as bad as most in the service of country." She also knew that any involved in the abduction of his daughter had been tore apart in to many pieces. Dramman had showed no mercy until every last one of them was brutally slaughtered and knew Lucius's reaction to such treatment to either of his children would be much the same. Of course she suspected the young woman seated across from her wasn't aware of that but felt it wasn't her place to disclose it.

Soon enough her sharp ears caught the sound of their arrival, Lucius's growling mutters about bloody politicians bringing a faint smile to Fiona's rose pale lips. "I believe they be back Sorcha.?

The young woman looked up from her inspections of the maps spread about the large table and nodded silently. She had heard them returning, the shouts having echoed across the camp.

Stepping inside with a slightly irritated expression on his lean features came the son. The look of him also followed the lines of his mother, even if he was built more like his father. The eyes however were slightly different and if one didn't know his grandfather, might wonder about their color. "Shut up Cie."

"Why should I" It was funny!" More laughter as bright pale emerald green eyes just danced.

"Ye should have seen the look on his face when she started bragging about how many pigs her father had and what a great dowry they would make. It was priceless!" Cieara added rather gleefully.

The young man took up a lean against the large table with arms folding over his chest and shooting another disgusted look at his younger sibling.

Fiona's lips twitched faintly with a slight arching of a brow. "How did ye manage to rescue him Cieara?"

"Oh, I just told her that she was very blessed to have so many pigs, but Daniel be allergic to pork, so she might need find another man for that honor." More laughter as she dropped down into a chair next to her mother and pushed a tumble of auburn curls from her flushed face.

Luc just leaned back with a hand brushing against his goatee and the act likely was hiding a smile behind it.

"She then mentioned chickens, but we managed to escape before she was able to go into any great detail." Daniel's comment was flat as he just shot his sister another look that held a promise of retribution.

Sorcha was only able to just look from one to the other as her senses fairly reeled at the impact of such unguarded emotion. If that wasn't bad enough, she was also clearly sensing the darker aspects both those young people carried and it was far stronger then she had actually expected. Again the warning had been made but she had taken the value to be lower then the fact.

Fiona gave a low laugh and just nodded to her daughter, before turning to gaze at Daniel. Seconds later he just looked away from his sister, the look fading from his tanned features.

"I would both like ye to meet Sorcha Mirawien, she be the young lady I told ye about."

Cieara bounced up to her feet with a quick smile and thrust a small gloved hand towards the girl. "Nice to meet ye Sorcha."

Rising herself with a bit more grace then speed she took the hand and gave another firm shake but as always removed it as soon as it was polite. The girl wasn't nearly as overpowering as the father, but Cieara's lack of emotional guards was a little surprising for her. "A pleasure.?

"As you wish Fiona." Lucius looked up with a slow smile moving over his bearded features and one arm rose to enfold her against his side. The steel-gray eyes then moved to each of his children in turn. "Sorcha is a guest and I expect both of you to treat her respectfully. You know how unpredictable things are out here so do not leave her behind. She doesn't know this area."

"Daddy! I would naught do that!" Cieara instantly huffed where she sat, sprawled back in a camp chair.

Daniel didn't even bother to answer, just glanced over at his father with a faint frown on his brow.

"Besides, Mum says she be with the Order, that means she can shadow walk, so we shall nae leave her behind, we will just take her with us." Cieara continued and sent her father an impish grin.

"Good. Now go show Sorcha around but stay close to the camp. We have a night raid planned and I don't want to have send any out to find you." Lucius then added, with a glance turned up to Fiona leaning against his shoulder.

"Of course Daddy!" Again the girl sprang nimbly from her seat. "Come on Sorcha. Nae mind Danny, he can actually be rather nice, It is just taking him time to recover from his earlier experience in dealing with the clinging vine."

The brother didn't say a word but Sorcha caught a moment of irritation rising from him before it just snapped off. She found that oddly unsettling, in much the same way his father's aura had. That sort of control without training was impressive.

"Oh that tent just behind Danny's must be for ye Sorcha." Cieara skipped ahead a few feet and grinned. "Since Mum got it set up for ye, should be pretty decent. Just hope ye don't mind the cold. I hate it so sleep in with Daddy as his tent is always warm."

Moments later Sorcha had a look inside, relieved to find it actually wasn't as cold as she had expected. It was cozy, and the pallet of pillows and furs looked comfortable enough. Considering she had slept in far worse places over the past few years, this wasn't bad at all.

"Oh look! Mum had them put a camp heater in here. Means ye will need to collect wood for it, but it be better then nothing." The girl chuckled suddenly. "Might join ye some nights when Daddy and Daniel are in bad moods. They are really uncomfortable to be around then, and even more so when they both blow."

"Cieara can ye stop trying to scare her?" Moving inside now, the tent seemed to shrink in size suddenly and Sorcha just glanced over a shoulder at the siblings while Daniel commented to his sister. "That hasn't happened in a long time."

Daniel glanced around the area for a moment and then flicked a look over at Sorcha. "Nae mind Cie, she has this thing about trying to shock others."

As the children left, Fiona continued to watch until they were well out of sight and turned to gaze down at Lucius. One gloved hand rising to caress his whiskered cheek gently. "Have a care tonight Love. I am nae sure but suspect that Sorcha will nae handle this battle well. It is nae the same thing as what she be used to."

Capturing her hand against his cheek he pulled her down into his lap with a quick smile followed by a questioning glance. "What do you mean Fiona?"

"It be a gut feeling Sweet, and one I am nae certain." Arms coiling lazily around his neck as she continued to regard him somberly. She didn't really know how to fully put it into words and was searching for the best way to convey her thoughts. "Tis" what I feel from her darkness that gives me pause. It be restless and chaffing within the controls placed upon it and any chance it has it will seek to break." Pausing a moment with a slight tilting of her raven dark head. "I have nae lost control of my own often, but admit it can be harder in the heat of battle to keep it contained. Especially one of ye campaigns. I be certain the girl has nae ever been exposed to the energy that is usually unleashed."

"I will try and keep and eye out for that Love." He started to frown, the expression clouding down over the lean visage. He hadn't seen Fiona's break free often and knew the dangers it might pose to his own men.

A leather-clad finger drifted over the lines marring his brow feather light. "Fact of it, her Darker half is nae very developed, which is nae unusual, but it be like the girl seeks to ignore it. Even with my own at her age I was aware of it."

Nuzzling into her hand lightly he gave her another expectant glance while one hand moved along her bath in a soothing motion. "Which means what exactly?"

"It be hard to explain Love, but I will try. Tis like taking an infant and throwing it into a den of wolves. It will nae learn civil behavior, but be fully animalistic in it's manner. It will be driven purely by survival." Her head moved to rest against his shoulder and she gave a nearly inaudible sigh. "Tis" why I nae sought to place those restrictions upon our own children. I had always known it be a part of me. Nae something one can change and learned to accept that aspect of myself early even if I nae knew it's uses. It be true it was a part that was nae dominant but I nae ignored it."

"Rhystil had to know sending her here could ignite that." The words Lucius stated were flat in tone and holding a hint of irritation that brought a low laugh from his wife.

"That be certain Love, I am now wondering what he be thinking. Sorcha will be fine in smaller conflicts but she can nae keep up with children as they enjoy these clashes and are nae likely to be willing to remain out of it." Silky black hair brushed against his neck as she rubbed a cheek against him. "I fully intend to find out what madness my father is party to and will seek a way to perhaps help the girl find balance with her nature."

A low growl from Lucius as his father-in-law was playing dangerous games and he wasn't fully sure he cared for his children being caught up in it.

Entering her tent a short time later, she looked through the pack Fiona had so graciously provided her with, finding the leathers her son had mentioned. She quickly changed into them, finding them even more snug fitting then her own, but suspected such things were made to mold to the form. The black thick outfit carried a hint of magic on it that made her a little curious, but as it was heavier then her usual gear, so she was glad to have it.

Zymire's weather held the usual variety, having four distinct seasons however, the winters there was not nearly this cold. Even with her unique heritage, Sorcha obviously took after her mother because she did feel that bone aching bite in the chilly air.

The long fall of hair was caught back into a long tail, pulling it out of her face and out of the way. Following that with the yanking on of the warming gloves over long fingers as it would ensure her hands didn't go numb and her grip would remain true. Sorcha then set about arming herself. Sliding her new whip into the wide belt, she added her own swords to the array. Thankfully the lady had also provided her with some throwing blades, which was strapped to one leg. Her own personal stash of weapons hadn't yet arrived but she would certainly be adding to her arsenal later.

A horn sounded, hanging eerily in the darkening air with a mournful tone and it brought Sorcha from the tent with a questioning look around. Across she saw several already astride their mounts and just moved in that direction.

Daniel and Cieara were listening intently to their father who was standing a short distance away. Coming closer she heard him directing them. "Ye three are to come in on the second wave. Daniel, do not leave your sister or Sorcha's side, no matter what."

It was apparent the youth didn't care for that but he gave his father a stiff nod. "Aye Sir." "Daddy! I can take care of meself, nae reason to make Danny some sort of glorified watch dog!" Cieara on the other hand had no trouble saying just what she felt.

"If ye don't like it Little Sweet, ye can march yerself right back inside and stay here." Lucius's tone allowed her no room for any argument, as it was more then obvious he meant just that. "I also expect ye to STAY with your brother. Is that understood?"

The younger girl's eyes flashed before she looked down with a nod. "Aye Daddy."

Sorcha was suddenly relieved her parents had not saddled her with siblings to deal with along with the nature.

Turning, the hard gray eyes lighted upon her, and she had a moment of discomfort, which was banked down as she gave him a quiet nod. "I know ye heard Sorcha."

"Aye Milord and I shall not stray." She stated quietly.

"Good. If any of ye get into trouble that you can't handle, call me." He then moved off, pulling the heavy helm down over his sternly set features.

"Call him?" Sorcha then asked, as she felt sure in the midst of a battle, few would hear anything over the shouts.

"Mentally." Cieara was now looking at her in bafflement. "Does ye da nae talk to ye in yer head?"

Sorcha looked at the girl in astonishment. "Nae." In fact the very idea of that, made her cringe internally.

Even Daniel looked at her with an odd bend to his head. "Do ye not have the ability?"

"I do nae know. Such forms of communication are unknown to me." A second later she stepped back with a hand moving to her head and glared at him, hearing him clearly inside her skull. "Stop that!"

Cieara chuckled quietly and nudged her brother. "She does naught know how."

Between the pair of them, she was able to pick up the basic ability on the ride across the darkening land, but felt disconcerted by it. Something about having someone else's voice in her head was sinister and unnerving, as they seemed way to close. Rather like someone whispering into her ear, an action Sorcha had never cared for.

She couldn't find fault with their lesson, as both were helpful without making her feel even more the misfit. She could see why they used this form of communication as it could be efficient but still found it invasive. Her mental barriers were simply not designed for it, but Sorcha did find she could still contain her emotions, and her thoughts were still her own unless she choose to share them. At least that was a blessing.

Between the pair of them, she was able to pick up the basic ability on the ride across the darkening land, but felt disconcerted by it. Something about having someone else's voice in her head was sinister and unnerving, as they seemed way to close. Rather like someone whispering into her ear, an action Sorcha had never cared for.

She couldn't find fault with their lesson, as both were helpful without making her feel even more the misfit. She could see why they used this form of communication as it could be efficient but still found it invasive. Her mental barriers were simply not designed for it, but she did find she could still contain her emotions, and her thoughts were still her own unless she choose to share them. At least that was a blessing.

Daniel paused, peering into the murky line of forest with blue-green eyes narrowed and glittering darkly. Sorcha could feel the tension building around them as an eerie hush descended down upon them. It lasted only a few heartbeats before the crowd ahead started to advance forward and quickly followed with the distinct sound of shouts and clashing steel.

The horses danced nervously as the signal for the second wave cut through the night and Sorcha instantly felt the first wave of emotional friction. It was thick and almost stifling so powerful the flood of sensation she had a fight to deflect it.

The riders exploded into the clearing, finding the camp crawling with movement. Fire dotted the perimeter, giving light in one aspect but the choking smoke also offered cover and confusion. The sounds of shouting and battle chants assailed Sorcha ears as she quickly drew her sword and started to swing.

Beside her she heard Cieara counting and gave a rolling of her eyes. Sorcha wondered if the girl ever took anything seriously, but quickly dropped that thought as her mount reared violently with a scream of sudden panic. That was a warning she took to heart and just reined in the terrified beast fast with the hand of a skilled rider.

To the left out of the trees black armored forms spilled, moving in fast with swords swinging. She didn't get even a chance to really evaluate them, but caught a sense of something being off about the forces sweeping down upon them.

"Terranthi!" The mental shout bounced around in her mind and she brought her mount around sharply, just in time to catch sight of Daniel being dragged down into the fray. Kicking into action, Sorcha twisted agilely, freeing her legs and just dove in after him with swords flying. Right on heels was the youngest of the three, cussing loudly as she hacked her way into the throng.

Fiona had warned him this might happen. He had even felt that crack as she lost control, and suspected his children had as well. The moment he caught sight of her eyes, then the small horns rising up from the dark hair, Lucius had acted. Catching her fast before she could get free. While he would not have cared had Sorcha torn into the enemy, a berserking dark Nephilim was a danger to his forces as well.

A mental shout sent and the girl finally stopped trying to shred his arm off, but the rage was rolling off her in strong waves. He didn't have the time to bring her down, and doubted she would care much for the same methods he had used on Fiona the few times she had ever lost control in a fight. "Control it girl!" His mental thought commanded, adding enough force to drop most to their knees as he spun around, deflecting a blow from a swinging sword and sending a sudden showering of sparks with the metallic clash of steel. It apparently got through as she went limp for a moment, fighting her way back to reason.

Even though the battle was winding down, it was still far from over, and he simply didn't have the time to spare. Twisting around again, he sent out another mental call and in a few minutes his son appeared beside them. Blood covered but unharmed, Lucius just gave him a sharp nod and then pushing Sorcha towards Daniel with a low growl. "Get her to a healer." Then he moved towards the forces that had been pushed back along the riverbank, for there was bladework still to do.

Drammon stopped for a moment and smirked at Fiona's observation. "She loves her daughter Lady DeAuster."

"Perhaps, but a mother should love their children, even with their perceived flaws and all." She instantly replied with her expression hard and unyielding.

"In truth her hate for that side of Sorcha, be the effect of her hate of me." He said that blandly with a glint from the swirling aqua eyes.

"Again, that is nae ye daughters fault and she now suffers from her mother's loathing for it and in essence puts her at further risk. She be a time bomb as she's now of the age when that dark side will start to mature and ye both well know it. We are already dealing with this with our own children and I be knowing the signs."

"This was why we have sent her to ye Fiona." Her father stated calmly, having remained leaned back comfortably in the seat he had taken earlier.

"Ah, but ye failed to explain just what this was about. Ye above all others know just how I feel about deception Father." The growl in Fiona's voice was more noticeable now.

"As there wasn't really any deception involved I will not apologize Fiona. We needed to get her away from Zymire. Ye needed one with the right skills to keep up with ye own children. This other problem is but a side effect."

"I can nae have my children put at risk over this 'side effect' as ye call it. Sorcha should have been taught this before. It be neglect on ye and her parents side that she wasn't." Fiona instantly countered her father's statement with a slash of a gloved hand.

"My daughter keeps me at a distance these days Lady DeAuster. I believe she thinks I am the cause of her curse and I seldom see her, and suspect she doesn't trust me either. That being likely the result of her mother's influence." Drammon commented in mid pace. "I am quite aware I was neglectful in teaching her about other half, but ye are correct about one thing, it is starting to return to awareness, and I fear Sorcha's habit of ignoring it might prove self-destructive."

"And what is ye former spouse going to think when she learns of this?" A brow arching slightly as Fiona really didn't care what that foolish bitter woman might think but knew the young woman likely would.

"Sorcha is of age now and any agreements I had with Cathlaine are no longer valid. I do think it is long past time Sorcha learned just what her heritage is, but as I said before she doesn't trust me and any efforts I have made in regards to it, she has shunned." He turned and regarded the dark haired woman intently. "It is my hope she finds it isn't the horrible curse she seems to believe it is."

Fiona fell silent conversing mentally with Lucius but soon had to stop as his battle was commencing but for the moment she knew he wasn't happy about it, but also caught a sense he felt pity for the young woman caught in the middle of her parent's stupidity.

As Daniel led Sorcha back, Lucius rejoined the battle, Drachmel sending foes flying back with each swing. All around him the organized attack was falling apart into smaller skirmishes, which in the long run suited the barbarians more than the trained mercenaries they were fighting.

"Korg!" He bellowed, drawing the attention of a hulking Northras directing men against the mercenary foe. "Send a runner back, have the cavalry mounted and ready to move." Korg banged a fist against his chest in indication that he had heard the command, and Lucius turned to look for Cieara only to nearly bowl her over as she stood behind him. Looking down, a quick study showed she was unhurt, though her normally sparkling emerald-green eyes now blazed with a crimson sheen. "Stay close, Cieara."

Lucius clasping her shoulder for a second with a soft growl before turning to head up the mountainside, the greataxe swinging from side to side as he cut a swath through their enemies. The few who survived contact with that possessed weapon found the Great Dark coming at the slash of a bound impaling blade, accompanied by a fiendish giggle of excitement.

For Cieara, everything was almost surreal in substance. That dark half, in a frenzy of feeding on the chaos around, was singing like never before. The closest she would later be able to describe it was standing too fast, and feeling the rush accompanying such a move. Her very skin tingled in her leathers, and she was moving with preternatural grace, leaping over a warrior's head and stabbing into his sternum before he could change direction. Her foe fell with a gurgled cry of pain, which stopped when Cieara twirled Vestia in her grasp and planted it hilt-deep in his throat.

Snarling, with tiny fangs gleaming, Cieara leaped ahead, a foot coming down on Lucius's shoulder plastron as she sailed to her next foe, her dagger blindingly swift as she slashed in her near-berserker frenzy. Her darker side was also feeding off Lucius's battle-rage, and it was transferring to her, making father and daughter closer than either would have thought.

Beside her Lucius roared in fury, sending one to the ground with a backhanded slap, while his axe spun to deflect an incoming blow. Cieara crouched to spring, but movement behind caught her attention, and the young girl acted without thought, sending Vestia twirling through the air to embed deep in the sniper's chest. The woman fell back with a scream of agony, her crossbow firing in reflex, and then it was Cieara's turn to hiss in pain as the bolt grazed her neck, drawing a thin line of blood.

Cieara didn't clearly realize what happened next so fast did it occur, as the world seemed to explode around her. Fire and dust enveloped her, and she had the sense of being lifted from her feet and slamming into her father, then all swirling chaos and thunderous noise faded into abrupt and sudden blackness.

Both Daniel and Sorcha jerked around at the booming explosion, their astonished gaze resting on the ridge overlooking the pass. Fire mushroomed skyward, sending boulders and debris flying outward into the pass. Combatants from both sides were bowled over by the shockwave, and a second later the two young people were sent to their knees, staggered as the ground rolled under their feet. But what staggered Daniel more was the mental scream of terror that was suddenly cut off.

"Cieara!" he cried, scrambling to his feet and staring wide-eyed at the disaster unfolding before them. The ridgeline was hidden behind a grayish-brown curtain of dust, masking the entire front line of the battle. Beside him Sorcha glanced around, and then grabbed Daniel's arm near the elbow.

"Come on." She growled, pulling the young man into the shadow of a large pine and into the nether, the two reappearing closer to the ridge. As she rested a second, hand holding her against a tree as the wound and strain of taking two through the nether winded her, Daniel took off toward the ridge. All around combatants were picking themselves up from the ground, shaking their heads to clear the cobwebs away, but they were paid no mind unless one of the enemy stumbled before him, only to be sent tumbling back, often accompanied with the sickening crack of breaking bone. The barbarians shied away, not wanting to tempt the fury lurking in that crimson gaze.

Cieara, answer me! Dad! He opened himself as fully as he knew how, searching for any thread of his family. Fiona he could sense, the shadowassassin already portalling back from Zymier, but then all was driven away as pure red washed over him. Daniel blinked, stopping as he pulled back from that contact.

"Daniel!" Sorcha waved, attracting his attention toward a clump of bushes nearby. Vaulting a splintered tree, what had caught Sorcha's attention came into view: a body, half-hidden by the bushes, but visible enough to reveal the gleaming dagger lodged in it's chest, cat's-eyes closed to protect from the dirt still hanging in the air. "Isn't this hers?" Sorcha asked, coughing to keep her mouth clear. Daniel nodded, taking Vestia and pulling it from the dead body. Sliding it into his belt next to Toroth, his own bound blade, he glanced around, shaking his head.

"I don't see?"The rest remained unspoken as Sorcha suddenly jerked him to the side, the tree he was standing beside blooming pockmarks at head and chest level. She ducked behind the tree while Daniel dove behind a huge boulder that had been blown from the side of the pass. "What the hells?"

Powerful wings unfurled toward the sky, shaking off the dust coating, the figure emerging from the landslide easily half again as tall as a man without them. Skin gleamed a dull red in the dying light, and it was hard to tell where split armor ended and rough hide began. The horned head swiveled around, blazing crimson eyes taking in the ridge and the surprised soldiers crouching there, and another roar of challenge resounded off the cliffs, sending small streams of dust flowing down in miniature avalanches. Nothing of the face was human, the grim visage made even more inhuman when the jaw split in two, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth as it screamed upward. But what had Daniel's attention was the small black bundle cradled in the creature's arms. "Dad! Cie!"

Sorcha's eyes widened at the sight before her. If that was Lucius, for it was indeed something outside her experience, he had grown in stature when he changed. A sharp crack shook her from her shock, as the soldiers above regained their senses and trained their weapons on the beast below them. The thing whirled, shielding Cieara with its body, the wings folding around them like a cocoon.

Seeing it crouch, Daniel started forward, only to be jerked back as a whiplike tendril of shadow snaked around him and pulled with surprising force. Leaping high into the air, heavy wings beat once, twice, giving the beast altitude, where it then turned south, in the general direction of the camps. "Why did you stop me?" Daniel shouted as he whirled on Sorcha, his eyes gleaming ferally in his rage. In reply Sorcha yanked him down, saving him again from a hail of bullets and arrows.

"Mayhap I should let ye stand there and become a pincushion. Might be it would knock some sense into ye mule head." Sorcha snapped.

Daniel started to retort, closed his mouth again and nodded tightly. Seeing he was thinking logically now, the young assassin chanced a glance up. She could hear Korg bellowing commands, and the forlorn horn call that sounded the retreat. Taking Daniel's arm, Sorcha led the young man back into the shadows, knowing that if she didn't, he was about to do something rash and probably get them both killed.

His back was scarred in several places, where shot and arrows had hit and penetrated, and in his aura there was an undercurrent of pain. But, stubborn as he was, Lucius was not even considering his own health at the moment, but was watching over his youngest child. Fiona slipped over and slid an arm into his, stirring the man from his reverie and to look down. "Fiona, I did not sense your arrival."

"Nae love, I only just got here. And ye have other things than to be scanning for me approach to occupy your mind." She replied softly, looking up at him. When he did not answer a frown crept to her lips. "Lucius, she be healing. Myri would nae rest until she was safe from danger. And the same could be said for ye." That brought a soft growl, but she did not budge.

"I don't know how, but Torvien has managed to keep an alliance with the northern scum. They used gunpowder to bring the cliffs down on us." Leaning over Lucius brushed back a lock of hair from Cieara's cheek, and then straightened again with a grimace. "Perhaps it is through one of these other lords, but somehow Torvien is receiving aid from the Northern Empires, and that will have to stop."

"Aye, M"Love. But now is not the time." Fiona took his hand and tugged, not letting up the tension until he stepped away from the bed and back around the curtain, where Myrialla was silently waiting, having brought the platter in while Fiona had distracted Lucius. Though his stomach rumbled at the smell of the sliced beef and ale, he shook his head.

"Damnation, sit down, ye stubborn ass!" Myrialla's voice, always soft and cheerful, held an edge that even got Fiona's attention, Lucius relented and sat down in the chair, leaning on his elbows on the tabletop in front of him. "I have enough work to do with those outside, and nae need ye acting a fool." Still muttering, she started to dress the rest of his wounds, though her touch was as gentle as ever.

"And when she is done, ye need to make an appearance to the men. Let them see that ye still stand." Fiona added, leaning a shapely hip against the table and looking at her husband.

"And afterward, ye'll be drinking some tea, and getting yeself into bed!" Myrialla added, taping a dressing into place along his back. "And nae arguing either. Otherwise, ye be cut off!" That earned her a dark glower, yet Lucius reached for a plate and fork.

"Alright, alright. I get your point, both of you." Steadfastly concentrating on the platter before him Lucius missed the look of triumph that passed between the two women.

"And tomorrow we will start planning on what to do about Torvien's new toys." Fiona promised, leaning over to brush a soft kiss to his cheek, mirrored by Myrialla to the right. "And ye know that we love ye, ye stubborn mule.? The soft laughter of the two drowned out the exasperated groan from the chaos lord, as he shook his head in total defeat for the second time that day.

Her back still carried a lingering ache from that earlier injury and Sorcha suspected that her current lack of energy had much to do with blood loss from it, but Myrialla had needed him taken away and so, Sorcha now sat here, hoping he would soon calm down before she lost it again and just knocked him out for a few hours. Finally Sorcha spoke again with words designed to be quiet and soothing. "Ye can't win every battle Daniel. Sometimes ye have to use tactics and nae rush into situations that offer little more than death."

"I know that." Daniel snarled with a hard look shot over a shoulder at her. Leaving her to view the tense set of shoulders and feel another blast of that anger.

"Then why this fury' Ye father and ye sister will be fine. Ye heard the healer tell ye that." Sorcha asked somberly while one hand rose to rub at a throbbing temple.

"Mind your own damned business." Came Daniel's harsh and instant reply, one filled with disgust.

A brow rose at the language and Sorcha just snickered to herself. "Ye be spoiling for a fight and I am nae in the mood to take ye up on it."

Hugging her knees she rested her chin on them and just continued to watch him with intent stormy blue-green eyes. "Until ye relax, ye can nae go back and see them. That was the deal after all. So ye best do whatever it is ye usually do to unwind, or we shall be here a while I suspect."

The tall form wheeled about abruptly and Daniel glowered at her for a moment with his hands moving to rest on his hips and gave what Sorcha could only call a dangerous smile. "I can nae do what I usually do."

Gazing at him with her hand moving to push the drift of hair from her eyes and relieved to find the horns starting to recede. "What method do ye commonly use" Perhaps we might improvise." Thinking if he was even remotely like her, it would be some form of physical release such as training, sparring or working out various moves.

If anything it seemed to her that the crimson gaze was a darker red now as Daniel stared pointedly at her then smirked. "I usually have sex."

Those four words made Sorcha blink at him in unguarded shock and she was glad the light was fading in the glade for she hoped the color rising in her face would not noticeable. "Then I guess ye be out of luck after all. Have ye ever considered a cold dip or running laps" " The words blurted out before she could even control it and stated firmly, yet there was a frosted cutting edge nonetheless. All making it more than obvious she was not even contemplating THAT.

Daniel had stated that so straightforward and blunt Sorcha truly believed he was serious and yet still found that unexpected to say the least. She also believed he had done that to see her reaction. Of course he was male, and it was her belief they often spent much of their time in pursuit of such hedonistic pleasures. Considering the anger rolling off him, she doubted many would find pleasure with him in that state however.

For just a moment she felt rather sorry for the DeAuster slaves and just glanced away, contemplating the fading light as it struggled through the dense foliage and sent shimmers across the lake water.

"Aye. It's like missing a part of yourself, and it's damn uncomfortable." The last growled softly, and Sorcha reached out to grip Daniel's shoulder briefly, more to keep him calm that anything else. "When she blacked out, and dad changed, I thought I had lost her."

"What exactly did your dad turn into?" The question came before Sorcha thought to stop it, but, she was thankful, Daniel didn't seem put out by it.

"Dad's a daemon." He glanced to Sorcha, caught the perplexed look, and continued. "He is an unusual breed that worships the Gods of Pandemonium, sort of like a demon but nae quite."

"I see." She replied, though Sorcha was still unsure about what a 'daemon' was. "And he's able to change fully?"

"When he's mad enough, Aye." Daniel stood up and walked over to the stump of the fallen tree she sat upon. "Usually, his beast manifests much like our Darker half. But,?" Sitting down, he stretched, wincing at the aches settling into his muscles. ?"his powers lie along differing paths than our kind."

Now THAT she believed, having seen Lucius rise from under a ton of rock with barely a slowing. "I'll be certain to steer clear when he's got a rage going."

"Good idea." And Daniel finally chuckled softly. "Though, if you're a friend, that's sometimes the safest place to be."

Daniel stirred, blinking sleep-filled eyes to stare up at the roof of his tent. The gloworb on the small table near the tent flap cast a dim glow to the tent, but out beyond the small cracks between the opening he could barely make out the tree's he was camped under. Early morning, he decided, his lean form stretching on the bedding as he yawned. Once, he had hated mornings, but he was finding himself getting up more and more at the crack of dawn while out in the field. Just one of the many changes he was experiencing.

His movements brought a soft grumble from the still-sleeping Tisha, who pulled at the covers and cuddled closer to Daniel. After he and Sorcha had returned they had spent time with Fiona, filling her in on what they had seen that afternoon. His mother had listened quietly, nodding at points, and then had hugged Daniel tightly before sending him to get something to eat. "Ye father and sister be sleeping, and nae need disturbing." She had said. "In the morning you will see them."

Sorcha had remained behind at Fiona's request, so Daniel had wandered down to the camps down the hill, mingling with the Northras. While much quieter than usual, the barbarians had still eaten and drank their fill, thus it was several hours after sundown before he returned to his tent, to discover Tisha kneeling obediently beside a set table "Mistress Fiona sent me to you this evening, Master." That had brought a smile to the young man's features as he fastened the flap behind him.

Daniel lightly stroked her hair as he reran the memories of the previous evening. Sorcha had disappeared into her tent behind his, and he had hoped that he and Tisha had not disturbed her. Though, no light had been seen in her tent when he had arrived. Memories and the feel of warm flesh had other emotions stirring, and he forcibly calmed the dark urges building, instead sitting up and again stretching in the cool air. Leaving the girl to slumber he quietly dressed and splashed cold water on his face and, after drying with a small towel, stepped outside.

Stretching slowly under the warmth of the heavy furs that made up the bed, she slowly rose from the deep sleep her body had needed. Sorcha was shaking off the vague dream images and slowly a pale hand rose and pushed the tousled dark hair from her face. The myriad of images had come from day before. Stark and cold the lingering visuals of war and fighting and the energy of the moment, which she found just a little unsettling.

She had crawled into her tent the moment she had been able, the weariness of the battle still heavy on her entire body. The memory of the day still replayed in her mind but had become something else at the end. Sorcha was almost glad she couldn't quite remember what they were, but such was the fickle way of dreams.

Slipping from the warmth of the nest she had made while sleeping she was pleased to find that the small camp heater had kept the chill of the early morning air at bay. Another stretching and she leaned down to see if the pail of water she had placed near it had stayed warm as well and was glad to find it was the case.

Shedding the large flannel shirt she bathed herself before donning her usual leathers. She would need to repair the others first and hoped to find some thick thread and needle for that job, but only after she found something to eat.

Hair drawn back into a comfortable tail, she stepped outside while pulling gloves onto her cold hands and glanced about. The camp was awash in the first hues of morning, with the soft colors of mauve still obvious, but she could hear voices and the clatter of activity. That sound drew her and she strode towards the large command tent.

She found Fiona and Daniel seated a table and talking quietly. Just when she was about to turn back, not wanting to interrupt, the lady offered her a quiet smile. "Good Morning to ye Sorcha. Be ye normally an early riser?"

"Nae, but after the activities of yesterday, I did fall into a deep sleep once we returned last night." Her usual jobs tended to favor a night owl considering the nature of it.

"Come join us. There be coffee on the side bar if ye be wanting it." Another smile before the pale green gaze swung back towards her son.

"I was just telling my son that I wish ye all to return to Gharnholme today." Fiona stated as Sorcha took a seat with a steaming mug of coffee held carefully in one hand.

Sorcha could feel Daniel's uncertainty and suspected he was also not terribly happy at being sent home. As for Fiona she had a deft hand at hiding her emotions. It made the assassin wonder if this return was due to her losing control, but she dared not voice such a thought.

Fiona however, apparently sensed it before Sorcha could muffle it down, for she continued speaking. Her voice quiet and controlled. "Do nae think it is due to ye Sorcha. What occurred last night tells me tis time for us to rethink the strategy here and nothing more. This be common in war." Pausing to take a healthy sip of the rich black coffee before she continued.

"I am going to try and track down Anastasha." Fiona then commented, while reaching for some fruit that had just been placed upon the tabletop by one of the servants.

"Tasha" Why do you want to find her Mum?" That brought Daniel's eyes up toward his mother curiously.

"Tis" that ability of hers that I seek the one that allows for the disruption of our enemies black powder weapons. I think we need to find a way to recreate the effect she has and use it against our adversaries." She replied quietly. "As it stands, she be the best option else we might see another situation that happened yesterday. Such a thing can nae continue."

"Nae, ye are right about that Mum. I am sure she won't mind helping us out."

Sorcha had no idea who they were speaking of, but the idea that one might have the skills to prevent mountains from exploding, in what she felt was a most unnatural fashion, from occurring again seemed like a good idea to her.

"Aye, I am sure she will nae mind, though it is certain she will nae care for camping out." Fiona's lips curled into a wry smile, as the young elf's dislike of the cold, horses, bugs and more was well known. "Now, as for ye two, I will ask that ye keep a watch on Cieara for now and stay close to Gharnholme once ye return there. There be trouble brewing which means we must be cautious."

Daniel gave another nod and went back to his breakfast. Sorcha also agreed somberly, knowing it was her job to watch out for the young man and his sister. She had given her word and now considered it her sworn duty to keep them both from harm.

Yawning, Cieara pulled on her hard leather boots and stood up to stretch, wincing slightly at the dull ache in her shoulder. Myrialla had finally awakened her, and after having her sip a warm tea, had urged the young woman to get up and dress. Stepping from around the heavy blanket she caught sight of Daniel standing near the tent flap, fidgeting with the heavy canvas. She didn't have to say anything, for the second she saw him he turned, and seeing the smile coming to peach-pale lips, bounded across the tent to sweep her into a hug. Letting out a startled squeak Cieara returned the hug. "Easy, ye big dope, or yer gonna crush me!"

"Just happy to see you up and about, sethar." Daniel replied, letting her back down with a low chuckle. "And don't go scaring me like that again."

"It was nae my idea to bring down the mountain." A faint frown crossed Cieara's elfin features, the memory of the previous afternoon dark indeed. Shaking the dark mood away, she looked over to her brother with an impish grin. "I'm hungry." Daniel laughed softly again, pulling back the tentflap for her.

"I've already eaten, but Aunt Myri made certain there was plenty left for you." Cieara could already smell the savory aroma of eggs and bacon in the chilly dawn air, and her stomach rumbled softly. The early morning fog had burned away, leaving a crystal blue sky bereft of clouds. Fiona and Sorcha sat at the table talking quietly.

"Morning Momma!" Skipping ahead Cieara folded her arms around Fiona's neck in a deep hug. Laughing softly Fiona returned the hug just as eagerly, and then eased aside to give Cieara room to sit beside her. It did Fiona's heart a world of good to see her daughter not only on her feet, but light of spirit after the day before.

"Good morning to ye, little sweet. I trust that ye slept well?" Lithe fingers idly played with coppery curls as she watched Cieara start to heap fruit and eggs on her plate. Daniel, in the meantime, had moved to lean against a sapling near the tent, watching the small group quietly.

"Like a log, mum!" Cieara replied as she poured a glass of fruit juice. "I nae even remember any dreams, so I must really have been out of it." Belatedly emerald-green eyes moved to the quiet Sorcha, who had remained seated, almost as though trying to disappear. "Good morning, Sorcha! So, what do ye think about being out in the wilds?"

With a pause coming as the young woman popped a piece of melon into her mouth, the brown-haired assassin nodded to her. "Good morning to ye, Cieara." And when that intense gaze did not leave her she sighed silently and continued. "It is a bit different than I be used to, but nae anything I cannot acclimate to."

"Good! I was worried my grump of a brother might keep ye awake with his snoring!" Giggling softly as she picked up a piece of toast Cieara shot Daniel a sly glance, as he shifted in his lean, his own look promising later revenge.

"Nae, Cieara, I slept soundly, once I went to bed." Sorcha offered a tight smile, fully aware that Cieara was using her as a prod against her brother, though her expression betrayed nothing of the annoyance she may have felt. She also glanced toward Daniel, certain her cheeks were coloring again as flits of the previous nights dreams resurfaced. While her emotional guards were well enough in place to keep control, Cieara did catch a flash of emotions coming from her brother, eliciting another soft giggle from the young redhead.

"Ahh, I see someone's getting randy early!"

"I am not."

"Are too!"

Cieara continued to eat during the silent exchange, sugar not melting with that sweet smile she gave him. Sorcha, glancing between the two, gave a soft sigh. "Do ye two always do that?" Her words caught their attention, and two stares now went to her. "Ye know that can be damned annoying at times, knowing ye are talking yet leaving others out."

"Sorry, sometimes I just forget that others can nae mindspeak." Cieara took a sip of juice, looking to Sorcha as she set the glass down. She started to continue, but a soft touch from Fiona on her shoulder gave her pause.

"Sorcha, 'tis a fact the children use the link to talk freely. After all, it be a part of our nature." She deliberately used the plural form to include them all, reminding Sorcha of her buried half, though the young woman could well have done without the reminder. "Ye learned the basics yesterday, and perhaps ye should practice some with Daniel and Cieara. They are, after all, family, and would nae bring harm or ill to ye deliberately." Though she was speaking to Sorcha, Fiona's gaze was on her son, for she had also felt the brief surge in his aura earlier, even more so than Cieara, being both elder and parent. She was proud of his control, reigning in the demon so quickly.

"This I know, Fiona, yet it be something I am nae comfortable with." Sorcha unconsciously fiddled with the silver bracelet on her wrist as she spoke, the subtle movements catching Daniel's eye from his vantage point, and the brief glance became an outright stare, his hand moving to the ebony manacle around his own right wrist.

"I know, Sorcha, which is why ye will nae be pushed about it." Another subtle command, this time to the inquisitive Cieara, who was listening intently while she ate her breakfast, and who nodded quickly to Fiona's words. "Ye will come to accept in your own time. And we will be here to help ye, should ye wish it."

"We'll be happy to help ye Sorcha, won't we Daniel?" Cieara cut her eyes to her brother again, and the look he gave her brought a soft laugh from Fiona, and even Sorcha smiled a bit.

"Sure we will, Cie." Daniel replied, glancing toward the quiet woman and her bracelet again. Fiona watched the byplay between the three, quietly assessing the situation. Daniel and Cieara were going to see just how much they were going to be able to get away with, and Sorcha was one that they may well underestimate. It would make for an interesting time in the weeks to come. As the banter continued, moving into the area of combat, with which Sorcha was much more comfortable talking about, Fiona looked at each closer.

Daniel had indeed leaned up, his body developing the hard lines of a seasoned soldier. His hair, worn long ever since his early teens, now hung nearly to the bottom of his shoulder blades, loose to the wind this morning. He held an air of expectant energy about him now, and Fiona could see the resemblance with the young man who had become her soul-mate.

Cieara, to Fiona's eyes, nearly glowed in the morning light. Even with yesterday's near-tragedy the young woman brimmed with energy, her dark-side soaking in at a prodigious rate. And while she was blossoming into a woman, the tell-tale was in her smoldering emerald-green eyes, she will still very young by the standards of Fiona's people. When she had been a little girl Lucius had one day predicted she would be "a heart-breaker and life-taker." Watching her now, Fiona had to agree.

Sorcha was going to have her hands full with the pair of them, but Fiona felt certain she would be able to handle it better then most others. The young woman had a serious demeanor and a determined posture that hinted that she was simply not used to failure. In the process Sorcha would also learn more about her own nature and perhaps come to understand herself.

The following days and weeks would prove to be most intriguing, Fiona thought with a shadow of a smile touching rose pale lips.