Ewan could not blame the Captain for calling him aboard ship to discuss the latest news from Palendies even though it had cut his farewell to Storm shorter than he would have liked. There were no more words of reassurance he could give her, and he tried to lend strength and comfort in holding her close; to give a memory of then just in case there was nothing more in the future.

He walked easily the deck to the small aft quarters that worked as dining hall for the officers and captain?s quarters all in one. A bitter wince as he thought on how he had asked her to wait when she gave him the choice. He should have told her not to wait and set her free, but instead he risked her heart for selfish reasons.

?Come now, it cannot be all that bad,? a voice came up from behind him as he opened the cabin door. Kiema?s calm blue eyes and sympathetic smile heartened him. ?Let us see what the Captain has to say, shall we??

There was no call for a response, and he bowed her through the door asking, ?You?ve not seen Lenika, have you??

Captain Aethwn lifted his head from the map on the table as they entered and Kiema replied, ?Not as yet, but there is time left.?

?Not so much,? Aethwn commented, ?as the tide is starting to turn, and we should depart soon enough. Boatswain says the Lark?s ready to sail except for the spare wood for any hull damage we plan to take on. That should be arriving soon. When it comes, we leave.? They could hear the men call to the docks saying their own farewells to port sweethearts soon to be forgotten. Now all they could do was wait for the last cargo, and if Ewan's guest would arrive before the cargo did.

Ewan gave a nod and took a seat as did Kiema. It was time to share the tales of the previous missions and words about the Northern port towns that might make their job easier.

A young midshipman called back to the hail, "Aye, my lady, you have been expected." The youth then snapped at a seaman twenty years his senior oggling the new passenger, "About your business, Gavin, the planks have just arrived." And so they had, the men busy to move them on board with use of the mast haul and careful to avoid the boarding passenger.

Ewan was listening to the Captain when the midshipman knocked and was called to enter, "All is aboard, sir, and Master Corinsson's guest is arrived."

"Very well, let's set away," the Captain calmly said and did not seem to notice Ewan's very surprised exchange with Kiema, who was too smug by half.

"Excuse me, Captain, I should see--"

But the Captain did not even have him finish, and only waved him on, "Of course, of course, Corinsson. We will finish this later."

Ewan was out of the cabin on on his way across the deck where he spied Lenika standing in the middle of the foredeck. He laughed boldly, and with the recent events of the past two days, that was a hard laugh to find, and held out arms for a friendly greeting of a hug, not even thinking of decorum in his surprise to see his friend. "If your intention was to astound me, Lenika, you have done so. I would have bet seven nights rest that you would not come."

As the boat left harbor, its gentle rocking began to increase with the power of the wind now catching in unfurled sails. He felt concerns that had built like a tower of stones pressing on him lift away in that breeze, and his smile found life when he looked about.

Ewan watched Lenika smile and then started and reached for her bags, "Oh, of course. Right this way," a sheepish grin. He walked with her towards the bow to the fo'c'sle where the guest and other crew quarters, small but accomodating, were situated on the vessel. "I do hope you enjoy the trip as well as the time away." He wondered what she would do with the time in Seansloe, or even how long she would stay. He watched her move along with him, and held back those questions for another time.

With a twist and change, he managed to hold her gear in one hand and open the door for her. The room had a window and a comfortable looking single bed as well as a trunk for her things, and these were not much more than three strides from the door. "Do you get sea sick?" He asked as he deposited her things close to the trunk. "If you do, I can see that the surgeon mix up a remedy to help."

Ewan maneuvered his way back to the door so she could walk the small space of what would be her room for the night and the next. He silently wished for smooth sailing, because in the forecastle, if a storm came up, it often felt the most motion to come crashing down from crests of high waves.

Ewan tried to read her feelings in her expression and the carriage of her person. He, too, needed this time away, even if guilt and anger railed inside that he was fleeing where he was needed. The corruption of his life, the end of the cool separation from the world around him, had come in a bloody and grim onslaught. How hard it had been to keep the rage and sorrow cocooned inside him that last day. The small boy inside him wanted to weep and seek pity, but he knew the next day would dawn bright and he had to leave behind unfinished business.

So, he turned to focus on the future, the immediate future, and closed that compartment of his thoughts for later to open another that helped him trust and work in the now. A smile for Lenika as he stepped out of her doorway into the small hall again, ?No, you are not the only woman aboard. Kiema is here as well. In fact,? he nodded to a door across the way, ?Her room is just there, but right now I suspect you will find her in the bow, hanging dangerously over the edge to watch the ship cut through the water.? He muttered, ?Lunatic that she is.?

Heels of his hands rubbed hard at his eyes, but he kept his grin, ?Would you care to take a tour of the Lark??

Unable to deny the truth of that, he nodded and motioned out to the foredeck, "Well, I don't know precisely all you know about ships. I would hate to bore you."

At that moment, Kiema walked past, somewhat drenched from the spray she had been receiving from the bow, and she enacted a tired yawn that formed into her impish grin, "Your stuffy exterior is always boring, Ewan, let a lass inside," she turned her attention to Lenika, "now there's some interesting things to learn, Miss Lenika."

The irritating minstrel did not wait for Ewan to make a retort or any sort of saving grace before she ducked into her quarters. Ewan found his most congenial smile for Lenika, and motioned for them to continue onwards as the crew went about their duties or lack of them with a fine breeze carrying them along swiftly.

He pointed out rigging and spoke of the difference between the mizzen mast, the main mast, and the foremast, but he feared when he started taking about the flying jib, the outer jib, inner jib, and staysail he was giving too much detail and instead turned the conversation. "Have you decided where you want to stay while in Seansloe? You have plenty of places from which to chose. The manor of course, my mother, if you choose, would probably find your company fine and helpful with Gaerwyn and his children there, or there is a fine inn in town."

Night was coming on darkly and it was going to be time for him to sleep even if she wished to continue on, so as he listend for her answer he turned them back to the fo'c'sle where his cabin also resided.

Ewan greeted the approaching Lenika as on the dawn of the second day aboard the vessel they found themselves docking in Seansloe. From his lean on the railing, he grinned, and lifted an arm to indicate the town beyond, ?Welcome to Seansloe, Barony of Yransea, Kingdom of Palendies in the lands of the Seven Nations.? He was very near giddy, and he had not looked so alive in a long time.

?Being home does you good,? she remarked quietly for his ears. ?Hopefully I can be fortunate enough to see some of your childhood haunts.?

He laughed as the gang plank was slid down to the wharf. ?Hopefully not all of them, but I can show you some on the way to my mother's home.? All prepared for disembarking, he had his travel pack slung over his shoulder.

Lenika, too, looked prepared carrying her two packs. ?That would be nice. I can learn more about my friend.? She smiled at him a smile that already seemed brighter.

?Shall we be on our way then?? He moved from his lean on the railing and turned for the gangway.

?Yes, let's go,? she started down the plank first. Her steps were careful until she was on the dock and she moved to wait for him. ?What of Kiema??

His rolling gait carried him carefree down the plank, and he grinned, ?Sleeping from what I understand, but she will probably head on to the manor when she wakes.? He directed their walk up the docks to the town. ?Well, first haunt of mine would be these very docks, and it was not always for a good reason,? a modestly sheepish grin.

?Oh, Ewan.... I now find out the truth,? she teased him as they walked. ?Perhaps your mother will share stories about you??

?If you ask her, she probably will, well, most of them anyways.? A brief smirk as they walked on. Soon he motioned her to take a turn down a street, but he gave a nod further along the road they had been walking. ?Continue up that road and you come to the Center Square. Festivals and such go on there. First time I won the tourney at the Harvest Festival was in that square.? A few people passed by and recognized him, and Ewan returned the hails.

Lenika joined him in his turn and flicked a glance to him, ?Skilled as always.?

?Well, not always,? he smiled and gave the barest glance to a tavern they passed. The memory that resided there was a little more than he wanted to share, so he just decided to ignore it and enjoy the bright new day in his home town walking with a good friend. ?Seansloe is laid out pretty simply at front, but gets more confusing the further you get from the docks. Fortunately, mother's house is just a bit further on. Here, we need to turn to the right,? and he did so with Lenika keeping a steady pace beside him.

?Was it hard to leave Rhydin?? she felt compelled to ask the surprising question.

His lips pressed together in a firm line, ?Some, yes.? He did not clarify if it was some of the place and people or just partially difficult.

Despite the pace, she reached out to touch his arm, ?Ewan, it will all be there should you return.?

He did not withdraw from the touch, but his eyes were still cool and his mouth set firm. ?All of it?? He looked to her with grim uncertainty. ?I doubt that, but...:,? he sighed, ?I can't do anything there, but make feeble attempts only to have the ground shift under me again. I'm worthless there.? A more confident look lifted his countenance. ?Not here,? he looked around.

?You're not worthless there either. Your worth may not be from being able to fight, but other things,? she said. ?As for here, yes, you have great worth here as well.? And she added softly, ?This is your homeland.?

?Yes, but...,? and Ewan suddenly remember something he meant to tell her on the voyage over, ?Lenika, I do not know how much you know of me or what I do, but to most here I'm simply the body guard of the Baronial family. My family, of course, knows there is more to it, and you'll hear talk and rumors that won't be far wrong, but...to most people, they are tall tales.? The intense look in green eyes conveyed the importance of this to him.

Slyly she spoke, ?I had my own guesses, but I will play along.? A knowing smile, ?You forget, Ewan, I've known you for a while and I'll not be the ruin of you.?

He chuckled, ?Ruin of me? No, that was my earlier plan.? He gave a teasing smile as he stopped before a nice, well kept, two story half-timber house with a small front garden. Two windows were situated on each side of a dark wood doorway with what looked like lace curtains behind them. ?Well, here we are.? He opens the small gate for her to enter the garden.

She stepped into the garden with a nod of her head and smile of thanks. ?Will she like me??

?Well, there's something in your favor,? he grinned and waited for her to ask what as he moves to the door and opened it as well.

?And what is that? Don't leave me in suspense.? She did not yet step inside, but waited at the threshold.

He grinned and whispered as he bowed her inside, ?She has never once not liked a friend of mine.?

Lenika did not seem hearted by this news, and said softly, ?There's a first time for everything.? But she stepped inside without further urging.

Time seemed to have been moving slowly for Lenika as she continued her stay in Seansloe. It had only been a couple days since her arrival at home of Ewan?s mother, but to her it seemed like weeks had passed. Lenika had not yet ventured away from the house much and she spent her outdoor time sitting in the garden. She was relatively quiet and reflective, too, except when in the company of Maeve or Gaerwyn?s children, and as for Gaerwyn, himself, Lenika was reserved and polite; there was nothing remotely resembling the friendship she had with Ewan or anyone else. Maeve, however, tried to encourage time spent with Ewan?s cousin as well as more trips outdoors and more consumption of her cooking, but Lenika was reluctant and found ways around it until one day she just decided a walk down the road might actually do some good.

The door shut softly behind Lenika as she stepped out of the house and took a deep breath of air. She wanted to lean back against the door, but she did not as she took a step forward then another until eventually she was nearing the gate but she stopped when she saw someone approach from the street. Gaerwyn was walking up the street from the docks, having spent most of his morning at the ships; but now he needed, or more correctly, wanted to return to his Aunt's house and see his children. He turned a corner and saw with sharp eyes the mahogany haired guest outside. He felt a guilty lurch in his chest, but he crushed it and approached with a friendly smile as he said and bobbed his head in respect to her, "Good day to you, Miss Lenika.?

There was a somewhat uneasiness Lenika felt when around this man because he had some similarities to Ewan, but he was not the friend she trusted so well. His mannerisms and his own sadness also weighed on her and she would never treat him with disrespect or cruelty, so she smiled politely as she nodded her head and said, ?Hello?? There was an awkward pause as she refrained from saying his name as that seemed almost wrong, and instead she chose to ask, ?A fine day, don?t you think?? It was still an awkward moment and she almost prayed for someone to end it.

?It is at that, miss,?Gaerwyn said a little more formally as he turned to look down the road, then back to her. ?Were you going to take a turn about the town??

?I had thought about a walk, at least, and you?? Lenika shifted, still awkward and unsure, but she offered a smile nonetheless and spoke of a topic that might ease whatever it was she was feeling. ?Your children are lovely.?

?Thank you, miss. I am glad to know they've not been causing you trouble.? He nodded to the house. ?I was coming by to check on them just now.?

The conversation was interrupted, thankfully, as the door opened and out came Maeve with a shawl for Lenika. The woman always seemed to know where Lenika was, no matter what she was doing, and the mahogany haired woman almost thought Ewan?s mother had some empathic ability, but that would never be something she said aloud. Maeve spoke in her kind voice, ?Now, Lenika, if you plan to take a walk, at least have a shawl. The harbor winds can still be cool this time of year.? It was when she spotted Gaerwyn that Lenika almost sighed and turned right back inside the house until she heard Maeve?s next words, ?Well, don't you just have the right timing? Little Gaer is asleep and Lina is helping me in the garden, but we need some things from the market. So you just go right about and get them. Here's the list.? Maeve shoved a list at him and a basket and turned around, waving a hand over her shoulder to Lenika. ?You enjoy your walk, dearie,? she said as she disappeared leaving Gaerwyn a little dumbfounded holding list and basket.

Lenika just about laughed outloud as as Maeve blew in and blew out. She flicked a glance to the dumbfounded Gaerwyn and offered up a little smile as she draped the shawl over one arm, ?It would seem you've been given a task to do before you can truly return.?

?It would seem I have,? he grinned. ?No doubt I will run into some of my crew there as well, and will they not have a fine time heckling me about this. Ah well, what must be done must be done.? He bowed to her then risked asking, ?Where did you plan on walking, miss??

?I hadn't any idea, actually.? Lenika felt she should try to be somewhat friendly to Ewan?s cousin, who has been nothing but kind to her. After a brief moment of thought she added and ventured to say his name, ?May I walk with you?Gaerwyn??


_____________________
Adapted from live play.

?Perhaps as a friend...? Lenika said softly and stepped away after Gaerwyn?s purchase of the cabbage. She did not want to think of the possibly of meeting another man, of finding someone else, of trying love out again. It was a painful experience the previous times and afterwards she always vowed never again, but could it happen again? This inner question led her to think back to the time when she first met Ewan and their friendship flourished.

She had just started dating Panther and Ewan had seemed to show an interest in her. Lenika could not deny that each man had their equally good qualities and each appealed to her in different ways, especially when Panther had been consistently gone, but she had already started a relationship with Panther and she would not have left him for something that may have been a figment of her imagination as well as the knowledge of what Ewan did for work and her memories of the past.

Perhaps I would have been better off on my own, she thought briefly.

It was a bitter thought, but one she banished quickly because without Panther she would not have met Sylvia and Ewan, and she would not have been as close to Ewan as a friend now. Lenika shook her head as her thoughts had overtaken her and she turned to Gaerwyn to ask and switch the topic to something more mundane, ?Shall you be getting the carrots next? I will stay for a little longer yet. I haven't much to go back to right now.?

?I am glad to hear you will be staying.? Gaerwyn offered and did not press the topic as he nodded and took them on to the next stall that had both carrots and celery. The poor man truly had no idea what could be going on inside the head of the former potter and she certainly would never clue him in. ?I wanted to thank you for your kindnesses to my children. Lina has taken it hardest the loss of her mother. I think you just being there helps her to focus on someone other than herself.?

?She's a lovely girl and I like children.? Lenika nodded as she looks over the vegetables. She knew from experience that it was not easy to lose a person you loved and shared your life with, especially if the death was unexpected. Lenika felt bad for Gaerwyn and his children, and she could not possibly imagine how he was dealing with it because he had to be strong for the little ones. ?How are you managing with the loss??

?I will not lie to you, miss, guilt is what I feel most. Damned accident to take her away so. I should have been there. Might have been able to stop it.? He stopped and looked over the selection as he shared his feelings. ?But all my cursing myself is not going to bring her back or do my children much good. I cry with them when they feel the need, but I have got to go on. For them, for my family, for the land.?

Gaerwyn sounded rather like Ewan at that moment, then went back to the purchasing of celery and carrots, haggling with the merchant. ?Baskin, I bring this up over the sea for you to sell. I know how much shipping costs you. Stop being a fool and give me a good price.? The haggling settled in his favor and the money was exchanged.

Lenika chuckled quietly as she got to see a little of Ewan in his cousin and as she watched the haggling. It was something she has not seen in some time, which made her miss Rhydin a little and her homeland. As they moved on to the next stall she spoke, ?There is nothing wrong with crying and it's brave of you to move on. It shows your strength. You will raise your children well, I'm sure of that. What else do you need to get??

?Potatoes, whiskey, and corn meal. The clothiers is just that building there,? he said as he turned and pointed across the Market Square to a bright limestone building. ?If you like, you can look for material or an outfit. I will finish up here and see you there to pay for your purchases. Or, you can listen to me yell at Oswyn over his prices for whiskey." He unwittingly offered what is known as his charming smile, which caused Lenika to laugh lightly and consider her options carefully.

?I won't get clothes just yet. Besides, perhaps I will help purchase what's on the list since I am staying at the house.? She motioned with a hand as she offered a smile in return. ?Lead the way.?

Gaerwyn nodded and muttered, ?Might as well get Oswyn out of the way. Maybe with a lovely lady at my side he will mind his manners.? He approached the seller of all manners of wines and liquors and hailed him. ?Master Oswyn. I trust you've some whiskey at hand, because my aunt is requiring a bottle.?

Oswyn was a man who looked like he enjoyed testing his wares more often than he should, but he was stone sober upon spying Gaerwyn and Lenika at his side. ?I do have a bottle or two. Of course, it being the beginning of the season, costs more.?

Gaerwyn looked to Lenika as if to say "warned you" then back to Oswyn. ?Oswyn, I am Captain of the vessel that brings you the grain, hops, and fruits from south lands when the season is new. Do you, and every other merchant here, think I don't know the very fine details of your enterprises? If you continue this manner, I may speak with the Baron about included shipments from that Rhydin for whiskey and all other manner of goods. I hear it flows like water and tastes better, too. That'd put some competition on your doorstep, wouldn't it? And why,? Gaerwyn continued as he gained momentum and started to bluster like a gale wind, ?Is it I have to go over this with you every damnable time I come to buy something??

Oswen stood with his arms crossed as he said, ?Fine, Gaerwyn, but you cannot blame me for trying to make a good profit. I have a family to feed, too, you know.?

The men exchanged glowers and coin for goods, and Gaerwyn smiled as he said to Lenika as he turned for the next stall to purchase cornmeal, ?See, you did have a good effect.?

Lenika followed him with some minor confusion and a glance over her shoulder back to Oswen. She spoke with the confusion in her voice, ?But I did nothing. You did all the talking.?

?He gave in early,? Gaerwyn explained then clarified his explanation before Lenika could ask another question. ?I was not required to hit him.? The cornmeal was purchased with ease as were the potatoes. ?Well, purchases are made, miss. Where would you like to walk to now??

Her eyebrows rose in question as Lenika was not yet done with her inquiry regarding Oswen and the business that Gaerwyn conducts with the man. ?Have you had to hit him before?? She did, however, answer his question before letting him answer hers, so she nodded her head back down the road leading to Maeve?s house. ?How about we bring these items back to Maeve? I wouldn't want her or your daughter to wait too long.?

He nodded to both her questions and steered them back to the road that would lead them to the house as he said, ?I have had to hit him frequently when he got mouthy. There are things I will tolerate, but saying I get special favors because of my cousin is not one of them.?

?I'm sure you could get favors for your own good deeds and hard work.?

?I am paid well,? he answered simply then made his own inquiry into Lenika?s life. ?May I ask, miss, does your family live in Rhydin as well??

?No, they don't. They live in a place similar to this one,? Lenika said as she took a moment to breathe in the air and enjoy the moment for what it was: a nice walk and pleasant company.

?That explains why you seem to fit so well here.? He turned a lane and she continued to keep pace with him. ?Do you miss your family??

?I do, but when I was in Rhydin I was able to visit them frequently.?

?That is good.? He chewed a corner of his mouth a moment before speaking again. ?It is not something we can do here. Everything takes time. Each time I come home I have to reconnect with my children and catch up on weeks of missing them. For all that, though, I like the way we live here.? Gaerwyn added ashamedly, ?Sorry, miss, did not mean to sound so defensive.?

?You didn't sound defensive at all and I understand. Whenever I would go back home I would spend many days there and there was always the reluctance to leave,? Lenika said with some understanding and she did not bother to clarify that it did take time for her to go and visit her homeland as well.

?I can share that feeling, miss, indeed, I can,? Gaerwyn said as he opened the front garden gate for her. Lenika moved up to the house, but she paused as she felt compelled to knock still, so she turned and acted as if she were waiting for Gaerwyn to catch up to her. However, her act did not last long as the door swung open as Maeve was there. The woman had to have some sort of gift at sensing people.

?No need to hesitate, dear, just come on in. And you, Gaerwyn, bring those things into the kitchen,? Maeve said to the just arrived couple.

Gaerwyn smiled to Lenika as he answered his aunt, ?Yes, Aunt.?

Maeve grinned to Lenika as she asked, ?Did you enjoy your walk? There's still some time before dinner is ready if you wish to walk on. I am sure Gaerwyn would be vastly happy to oblige you.?

?The walk was nice, thank you,? Lenika said as she nodded then paused at Maeve?s suggestion. She had some sort of suspicion that this was Maeve?s innocent way of getting her to spend more time with Gaerwyn. Lenika did not mind that so much, but one walk and one conversation was enough for now. She needed time to think and be alone, so she replied softly and politely, ?Gaerwyn was pleasant company, but I think I might go up to my room for a little bit before dinner.?

?Oh, of course dear,? Maeve said as she moved on to the kitchen where Gaerwyn was helping his daughter with putting things away. Lenika, however, stood back for a few extra moments and watched the little family. They were charming and incredibly endearing, which caused more conflictions in her thoughts as she turned away and moved up to her room.



____________________
Adapted from live play

Lenika had watched Maeve with little Gaer and she smiled a bit. Despite the possible tantrum, he was adorable then she turned her attention back to Lina. ?I could try a little bit,? Lenika said, but she hesitated briefly as it had been a while since she attempted any art or craft at all since the breakup and destruction of her home. ?I do not think I will be as good as you, Lina.?

?I betcha you would.? Lina?s little hand took Lenika's unabashedly and drew her down to the floor where scatterings of drawn upon and clean parchment as well as little color sticks of chalk and oils lay scattered about; Gaerwyn watched, his reading forgotten in his lap, with a smile though he was on pins and needles inside as he tried to decide when to interfere so Lenika would not be vexed by the exuberant little seven year old. ?Papa says that we don't learn anything by not trying.? Gaerwyn thought he could also do without Lina constantly quoting him to Lenika, it did nothing to calm his nerves.

Lenika went with her first reponse to Lina?s quote of her father and chuckled quietly as she settled down on the floor with the girl. ?Which may I use, Lina?? As an afterthought, Lenika added, ?It sounds as if your Papa is a wise person.?

Lina's poor papa had a high flush to his cheeks as if he had been on deck too long, and picked up his paper for reading again, though he was looking over its top to the lovely lady sitting with his daughter, what a charming view. Oblivious Lina pushed paper over in front of Lenika, a nice clean bit of parchment that seemed to have escaped wrinkling, too, then wiggled fingers about to all the colors. ?Anything you want to use. Lots of colors. Mama liked colors. Do you like lots of colors, Miss Lenika,? she asked with bright expectant eyes.

?I do. They are a beautiful thing.? She smiled at the girl and did not glance to the father as she felt that he might be watching and she did have the impulse to look his way. Instead, Lenika reached for a chalk. "I once gave many colors of fabric patches to a woman so she could make a colorful dress.? Lenika thought briefly to her time in Rhydin and she smiled in memory of dear Viki, who was a bright light and had a love of colors; however, that was an old life and one she may never return to. It was one more life in Rhydin that would go unnoticed and be forgotten with time as there were so many more exciting and important ones in that town. ?Now, what shall you draw??

?Ooh,? the little girl all agog with the idea of a dress of many colors. ?I betcha it was a pretty dress.? Then to the question at hand, ?I'll draw a dress of lots of colors!? Lina was inspired now, then she tilted her head as she asked, ?What will you draw, Miss Lenika??

?A person, but which person should I draw...? Lenika trailed off as she tapped her cheek as if she's thinking very hard and trying to engage the child in her thinking process. ?Any ideas??

The little girl's nose wrinkled up as she thinks hard; Gaerwyn, trying to be helpful offered, ?Why not draw Lina??

Lina, however, shot that down immediately. ?Not me! I'm not in action mode.? This seemed to be required for her to be drawn as she said it very firmly; and Gaerwyn chuckled.

?You cannot get into action mode??

With an exasperated huff, Lina pointed to her paper. ?I'm drawing, papa!? Then as if in punishment for him she pointed to her father. ?Draw papa. Or draw Great Auntie, but she's got grey hair and it?s kinda hard to put on paper,? which from the scrunched up face would not do at all.

Lenika watched Gaerwyn and Lina with some amusement then at Lina?s suggestions she chuckled softly. ?Okay, I will try to draw your Papa. Will that do?? She flicked a glance back to Gaerwyn and shrugged lightly with a smile then looked back to Lina. ?I'll do my best to make you proud.?

Lina grinned and said in kind, ?I'll try and make you proud, too.? She started on the multicolored dress while she stole a glance to Lenika's parchment with corresponding oos and giggles as the work progressed; Gaerwyn had forgotten his reading, because he was smiling softly as he watched his daughter smile and color; something he feared it would take months for her to regain, if not years. Still, he knew that tomorrow it might be different and she could be all tears again, so now he cherished the moment.

__________________________________
Adapted from live play

?I used clay to create whatever I wished.? Lenika shrugged a little and continued to whisper, though Gaerwyn could hear the words as the parlor was quiet save for the two females kneeling on the floor. Lenika added as she smiled, ?Sometimes even people.? She sat back on her legs as she continued to kneel; she had her hands resting in her lap. ?From this drawing of your father, I could have made it more lifelike.? Again, her mind went back to a time when she could have created Gaerwyn just from watching him a few times. She would have been able to produce a sculpture with very precise detail, down to any wrinkle in his clothing, if she had to. She had done so with Ewan and so many others, though those priceless items were stored away and no one knew of their existence. Was that life gone from her now?

Maeve came back down the stairs and paused at the parlor entry as she watched the scene and allowed for a sad and strangely hopeful smile. Like most older women with little else to do, she was all about the matchmaking; and here were two wounded hearts that just needed time. Lina was all about the wondering of drawings into clay and Gaerwyn kept his content silence. ?Oh, Miss Lenika, really? I've never worked with clay, though Gaer and I make things in the mud on rainy days. And, you should have seen...?

Gaerwyn and Maeve knew a long story when they heard it coming, but it was Maeve that got word in first. ?Come now, Lina, time for bed.?

Lina was about to do her own brand of refusal when she caught the look of her father and instead rose to her feet then bent to press a kiss to Miss Lenika's cheek. ?Good night, Miss Lenika. Thank you.? She would be speaking with Miss Lenika tomorrow about clay; one could bet money on it.

Lenika smiled softly for the girl as she said, ?You're welcome, Lina. I hope you have a wonderful sleep.? Once Lina had left the room, Lenika began to gather up the art materials and let her thoughts wander again. There was a time when she had wanted children and marriage, but she had almost forgotten that dream when she and Panther had begun their affair. He had still been a wounded heart over his own loss and Lenika was not going to put pressure on him for more so she had simply let it all slip away from her. Now, she did not know if she wanted any of it ever again, except Gaerwyn?s son and daughter reminded of a time when she did want it; especially before she had come to Rhydin.

?Yes, miss, you, too.? Maeve guided Lina back up the stairs, and Gaerwyn set aside his reading to help Lenika with the art materials. He was careful to set aside his daughter's drawing to keep and the blank pages in another stack; Gaer's scribbles had a stack of their own.

?Thank you, miss, for your kindness. Lina's so hard on herself to be perfect. It takes some doing from time to time to get her to realize she does not have to be," said Gaerwyn, which brought Lenika out of her thoughts.

?Perfection is a myth and I would not wish her to be so down because of it,? Lenika stated low and with fact as there had been a time when Lenika would not have accepted anything less of perfection for her own work. She continued to talk low as she picks up the chalks and oils, ?She enjoys it and that should be all that matters; though I would have to see if I could find the right colors for her patches.?

?Perhaps with your help in the days that you are here, she will learn that.? Gaerwyn looked at the drawing of the dress at her words. ?Whatever you need, I will see that you have it,? he said then looked back up to the woman across from him, and the strike like lightening that came upon him was the thought of his wife and how he ached with missing her. He looked at the papers again and set them on a nearby small table as he kept his back turned until he could keep the tears from coming then he turned to Lenika to give her a smile.

Lenika stood with the art materials in her hands as she watched him silently. She understood and it pained her in some way to know that this man and his children had to experience it. For a moment, Lenika was grateful that she had never had children to experience the loss of her first love. ?The smallest thing can bring a memory and it usually hurts,? she said softly as she often still remembers when she returns home for visits.

The tears but small lines of moisture rimming his eyes; of course she understood, he nodded and rubbed the heels of his hands against his eyes. ?Aye, too true, miss. You'd know just of that, and it is sorry I am that you have a similar pain.?

She did not want to talk of her pain. This was about him and what happened or was happening in Lenika?s life was something she would fix on her own because it was decisions that she needed to make, and she had told herself to never again let anyone know; she would be on her own in times of trouble. ?I cannot say it will get any easier because it's different for each person, but as long as you can express it from time to time then it helps.? Lenika smiled in memory of break most of her art pieces in her moments of expressing herself. ?And you have your children to help.?

?It's ashamed I am, miss, that you've had to witness this and take a hand in it when you've your own troubles. As I said before, I believe you're being here has helped with my children more than I or Aunt could have done on our own.? He stepped towards her, ?I wish there was someway I could return the kindness and help you as well.?

?You have given me kindness and help. Other than what you and your family have already done...that's all I need.? Lenika nodded and took an unconscious a step back as he moved closer; she felt uncomfortable with him so close and it was awkward enough with her own emotions of the past and present warring inside of her. ?I only hope it will not be too much trouble when it's time for me to leave.?

Her step backwards had him taking his own, and he nodded. ?When you decide you are ready to go, we will be sorry to see it happen, but understand all the same. I am glad you have found your time here of help.?

He was a nice man and it gave her a little feeling of happiness to know she might be missed; sometimes, it is a good feeling to know that people care and that you will not be forgotten. Lenika knew she would miss the family and the land as well. ?I've still not decided when I shall leave, though, but it will be something I'll be thinking on.?

She did need to decide whether she would return to Rhydin or not, and if she did not go back to Rhydin then she needed to decide where she would go to next. Surely, Sylvia and Ewan did not want her invading their land forever but then she had not much time to talk to Sylvia, who always did have good advice. Perhaps she would write her a letter or return to Rhydin for a short time just to see her. ?If you do not mind, I think I'll go up to my room as well.? Gaerwyn took Lina?s art materials from Lenika then they said their goodnights and Lenika promptly retreated to her room, where she would sleep little and think much.



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Adapted from live play

The bench; it was a close quarters type of spot and Lenika looked at it for a few moments as she visibly thought about it. To sit or not to sit, that was the question in her mind, but eventually she made the decision and nodded. ?Yes.? It was a simple answer and one that took a long time, but she had made it for the betterment of this fragile friendship. She moved forward, then, and settled on the bench as her hands folded onto her lap. She waited for him to join her before she attempted to ask her questions; in fact, Lenika was thinking on those questions.

Gaerwyn did join her on the bench, sitting so he is angled towards her and Lenika had moved a little so that they did not touch and were on opposite ends. She had his complete attention, though he could not hide his curiosity at what the questions may, which caused him to keep his silence since he had no idea what to say to help her. Lenika did not speak right away and she did not look at him as her gaze was directed onto her hands. It was another couple moments as she finally made up her mind.

?How do you get word to and from Rhydin,? she said as an opening question. ?How often do your ships sail to and from there??

?That depends on the urgency of the message. If you've an urgent message, we can send a courier up The Path. It will take some time to get word back. Two days most like. If you want word sent, but not urgently; two days out and two days back for a return if your message is answered promptly.?

?What about the ships??

?Well, the ships leave each day, miss, though they aren't mine. I have only the one, and she goes nowhere without me. But the Lark and the Wren rotate pretty regularly. As one is leaving here, one is leaving Rhydin. Unless they know to wait for something. Then there's the Yran Sprite, which goes out at need.?

Lenika nodded as she listened and considered her options, which caused a shift in her seat. ?I have been thinking about this and I feel I either need to send a message or return to Rhydin for a short time.? She added hastily, ?I would like to come back and visit afterwards for a little longer. I could also get some art supplies and the fabrics I think Lina would like as well.?

?Whatever you wish, Lenika, I will see done. If a message, I will make sure it is sent with a courier. If a return, I can escort you through The Path, or take you on my ship there.? He smiled with a true gratitude. ?It is a kindness you show my girl, and I thank you.?

?It would be getting back here that I have my concern. Ewan has told me somewhat of this path.? She nodded again and tucked back locks of the mahogany hair. ?Lina and all of you deserve much kindness from me. I only hope I have the time to show my own gratitude.? Ewan?s family did deserve much for their kindness and efforts, and Lenika had been a poor guest to take them for granted, which caused a some regret within her.

?Have no concern on that part. When you want to return, there will be a ship to bring you h--here.? Gaerwyn had nearly said home, and corrected himself. ?I think we all give what we receive,? he said in regards to her speaking of gratitude. ?Lina, and we all, have been glad to have you here. I believe I can safely speak on Maeve's behalf that you are welcome here anytime.? There was that charming smile from him again and Lenika smiled a little as she looked away, but the smile was gone from her features as she looked back to him; her own smile was not because his charm made her feel all warm and fuzzy, but more from some amusement.


Lenika nodded as she spoke in a soft tone, ?That will be something that I will try to remember. In truth, I feel sad at the idea of leaving but I know I will need to return to Rhydin for some things.? There was a pause as the conversation seemed to have ended, but she was not yet ready to go back inside so she asked the first question that came to mind. ?Have you ever been there?? Another pause as she was told by Ewan that he had and he was away when he heard word of his wife?s death, so now she felt awkward at her words and bit her bottom lip before she added hastily to clarify, ?For more than you were there before?? She furrowed her eyebrows and looked down as she fumbled over her words again and repeated what she said in her mind; this could have gone better.

Luckily for Lenika, Gaerwyn understood and shook his head as he spoke, ?No, I have not or not more than this last time. I would stop and see the docks, change cargo and leave again. It is as much as I usually see of it. But, I feel that might change with as involved as my cousin is getting with the matters over there.? There was some disappointment in his voice and the way his head dropped slightly.

Lenika noted the disappointment on Gaerwyn?s features and she could understand somewhat, especially when one was not accustomed to the ways of Rhydin or came from a much more wholesome land. She remembered the first time she visited Rhydin to look for a house and job; it had been an experience and it had instantly made her realize she needed to adapt or she would not get very far in the land. Now, she almost wondered if it had been a mistake to change at all to suit Rhydin. Finally, she nodded to Gaerwyn as she said, ?Perhaps you will see him soon.? Her one statement made her briefly wonder if Gaerwyn missed his cousin, but she did not ask that question.

Gaerwyn looked back up to her and smiled, ?Let us hope it is not the same greeting I gave him last time.? He chuckled from the memory and it was not unlike the soft sound of surf on the shore.

?What greeting was that?? She had many guesses and she remembered how her cousins used to greet each other after a long time apart. They liked to be rough.

Gaerwyn looked a little ashamed. ?I was so angry...I hit him. Or, I would have, but he stopped me. Lad's still unnatural fast,? he chuckled again then he shook his head. ?I am sorry, Lenika, you were speaking of messages or visiting. Would you rather the message or the visit? Either that pleases you, just let me know and I will see it done.?


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Adapted from live play