The Treasure of Gwenlais, page 56
part #1 of The Rienfield Chronicles Series
“I know my love. I am not upset. You are fine now. I am with you, here at the Infirmary. We are all here for you my darling. You only need to rest, so you can get well,” Caleb spoke, with a tear filled voice, as he continued to gently stroke her hair.
Her face calmed as she smiled weakly, her shaking no longer as violent as before. She let out a soft sigh, and blinked her eyes drowsily.
“I am glad. I love you,” she whispered, as she smiled dreamily and once again closed her eyes.
“I love you too, my sweet girl,” Caleb whispered back, tears rolling down his face, as he kissed her forehead gently, to his relief it felt cooler.
She sighed once more and began to breathe in a peaceful slumbering way.
Master Elphin stepped forward, touching her forehead, and checking her pulse. He smiled reassuringly at Caleb, placing a hand on his shoulder.
“Her fever has broken. The next time she awakens, she should be completely aware of her surroundings,” Master Elphin informed them all, with a wide smile.
“Was she not aware, just now?” Caleb asked, his voice still choked up.
“She reached out to you in her delirium. She may very likely not remember this moment. I am most happy you were here Prince Caleb, as you were the last one she saw before she lost consciousness,” Master Elphin, explained in a warm voice.
Caleb, reached over and kissed her now cool cheek tenderly, as he pushed her hair away from her face. Everyone walked into the room quietly, and sat down, smiling tiredly. Caleb looked over at his father, who was still smiling.
“I am sorry for my anger Father,” Caleb spoke, in a low hoarse voice.
“No need my son. I was only worried for you,” King Fergus replied, in a deep soft voice.
“There is no need to be worried for me any longer. I am not going anywhere. I am not leaving, until I can bring her back to the Lodge,” Caleb smiled wearily but contentedly.
He then laid his head next to hers, on the pillow, as he reached over caressing her hair until he fell into an exhausted sleep.
Leland came out of his house, rushing to get to the horse he had waiting for him just outside. Ealish, his wife came running out to catch up to him, frantic and confused.
“Leland, please! Tell me why you are leaving. What has happened?” she asked desperately, grabbing on to his arm.
He stopped for a moment, holding her by both of her arms, just in front of his horse.
“Ealish, I cannot tell you what has happened or where I am going. Just know, I did what I felt had to be done. I will come for you and the boys as soon as I am able. Now please go back to the house with our sons. I do not want them to come out. Please my darling, I do not have time,” Leland said in a pleading voice, looking into her tear filled confused eyes.
Moments later, they both turned to the sound of many horses rushing into the courtyard. Leland turned again and looked at his wife, his face sullen and serious.
“Ealish. Please, go back to the house now. It will all be explained soon. Remember no matter what you are told, that I love you,” Leland spoke, in a quiet defeated voice.
“Leland? What have you done?” Ealish asked in a hoarse whisper, tears now streaming down her face.
“Go to the house now....please Ealish,” he pleaded in a whisper.
She backed away from him slowly as she looked over with frightened eyes, as she saw who had entered the courtyard of their beautiful and spacious home. Leland was a Trainer of all the Scimitar cats, including the Hunters, well paid by the Kingdom and well respected. Ealish’s mind a confused flurry of emotions, and rushing thoughts. Especially at seeing Prince Aiden himself, leading the Sentinels into the courtyard, his face angry and stern as he approached. Only when his wife was standing on the paved fieldstone entrance of the house, did Leland turn to face the ones who entered. Aiden leaped off his horse and approached Leland, his strides purposeful and quick. When he was within close range Aiden struck out furiously, his fist hitting Leland full in the face, knocking him to the ground. Aiden was then upon him, pummeling him mercilessly. Ealish screamed in terror as she ran over to where Aiden and her husband were. Screaming out, begging Aiden to stop his vicious assault on her husband. McCullan was already off his horse, and held Ealish back in his strong arms to prevent her from getting too close. Rian and Aaron, were also off their horses pulling Aiden off Leland, who was now bloodied and battered by the Prince’s attack.
“Why?! Why?! What could she have done to you?!” Aiden screamed out in his rage, as Rian and Aaron pulled him back.
Aiden pulled away from them aggressively, they stepped back knowing his temper had reached a point where it could not return at this time.
Aiden pulled out his large dagger and threw it at Leland, it landing hilt up in the ground only inches from his face.
“Pick it up! Face me coward! You do not have your beast to hide behind!
Stand up and face me!” Aiden screamed at him, demanding Leland to engage him.
Leland said nothing, only sat up and continued to glare at Aiden tauntingly.
“Pick up the dagger. Give me a reason to end your life now. You know my brother will demand your blood. Pick up the dagger and let us end this now,” Aiden said, in a lower and more threatening tone.
Leland spit out a mouthful of blood, then getting to his knees, he placed his hands behind his head, smiling in defiance at Aiden. Aiden stepped forward beginning to draw his sword only to be stopped once more, by Rian and Aaron.
“You need to calm down Sire, if we are to take him into custody. Look at his wife, and the boys are now standing at the house entrance. Remember your father’s words Aiden,” Rian spoke to him in a calm and even voice, helping him to calm down.
Aiden looked over to see Ealish sobbing in McCullan’s arms, and then his sons, now crying as they clung to an older woman, obviously a servant of some sort. Aiden closed his eyes for a moment, then exhaling deeply, nodded his head in acknowledgement to Rian’s words. Rian and Aaron then released their hold on him and stepped slightly back. Aiden then stood up to his full height and walked over to where the Sentinels were holding Leland.
Leland said nothing as he was helped to his feet by two Sentinels, his hands then bound behind his back. He only gave Aiden and icy glare of contempt.
“So much for discretion,” one of the Sentinels leaned over and spoke quietly to another, causing his fellow to grin sardonically.
“Leland, son of Diarmuid the Trainer. In the name of his Majesty King Fergus, my father, I hereby take you into custody for the attempted assassination of her Highness, Princess Laurel of Gwenlais,” Aiden said, in clear and raised voice.
Ealish eyes went wide with shock, her lips trembling, as she could not believe what her husband had just been accused of.
“Leland… is this true?” she asked him in a strained voice.
He looked over at her, his face softening for just a moment, as he saw the confusion and pain in her eyes. He did not answer, and then looked sadly away, to look at Aiden again. Aiden walked up to him closer, their faces only inches apart. Aiden’s eyes flashed with anger as he slowly smiled, wickedly at Leland.
“You noticed I said attempted,” Aiden said, for only Leland to hear, as he saw just a hint of surprise in Leland’s eyes. “Yes, she is alive. You failed, you miserable bastard,” Aiden said in the same low tone. “Take him away” Aiden said, clearly to the Sentinels holding him.
Ealish began to sob wretchedly as they took Leland away. Aiden looked over briefly, his face sad and sympathetic as he looked at McCullan.
McCullan simply nodded, as he held Ealish close, attempting to comfort her.
“There, there my girl. Come, let us go to the house, I will explain what has happened,” as he walked her back into the house.
The group left as quickly as it had arrived, wasting no time in reaching the House of Detention. Another squad of Sentinels was there waiting, as well as Chieftain Argon. Leland was brought immediately into a large cell, in the farthest part of the building. He was then placed under heavy guard. Chieftain Argon led Aiden away from Leland’s cell.
“Come my young friend. There is no reason for you to remain here any longer. You should be with your family at this time. I will be questioning Leland myself shortly. When I feel I have sufficient information, I will come and speak to all of you,” Argon said in a quiet and calm manner, which was his usual way of speaking.
Aiden left the House of Detention, and with his required escorts, returned briefly to the Great Lodge. As he walked into the Hall he was met by Lucas, who informed him that the rest of the family was now at the Infirmary, and that as far as he knew, the Princess remained unconscious.
“Is it safe to assume Sire that the person or persons responsible are in custody?” Lucas asked in a low voice.
“Yes. Yes it is Lucas. That however is all that I can tell you. I need to change now and go to the Infirmary,” Aiden said discreetly, as he smiled sadly and walked up the main staircase.
A short time later, Aiden reemerged from his room, feeling more relaxed as he had washed and changed into more comfortable attire. He made his way quickly down the stairs and as he walked out of the Hall, he saw Owain, standing with the escorts, looking nervous and distressed. Owain walked up to him quickly, putting his hand on Aiden’s shoulder.
“Aiden is it true? Is Leland responsible for the attempt on Laurel’s life?” Owain asked, with a shaking voice.
Aiden stopped walking to look at Owain with a sympathetic smile.
“Yes Owain. I am afraid it is true. Bad news travels quickly does it not?” Aiden asked, as he put an arm around the young man’s shoulder leading him to the horses.
“It does indeed. My Aunt Ealish and young cousins were brought over to the house by Chieftain McCullan. She is quite hysterical. We had to send for a Physician's attendant to give her something to calm her down. I need to return home quickly to help look after my cousins, but ....I wish to see Laurel. Please Aiden. Please convince Caleb to allow me to see her,” Owain pleaded with a voice breaking with emotion, as his eyes filled with tears.
Have you been to the infirmary as yet?” Aiden asked him, with a warm smile.
“Yes I have, to get the request for an attendant. However I was too upset to go to Laurel’s room. When I was told that you had returned to the Lodge by one of the returning Sentinels, well I thought it best to speak to you first. I....I was not sure how Caleb would react to my being there,” Owain said with remorse.
“Caleb will be fine Owain. He cares for you and Imagin too much to hold any ill will towards you or her. This has nothing to do with either one of you. I am sure that Caleb will be happy to have you come and check on Laurel. Also, Caleb is not yet aware, that it is Leland who is in custody. Father will not tell him until Laurel is awake and aware of her surroundings,” Aiden informed him.
“Oh, I see. Well I will not say anything then,” Owain replied, nodding his head.
“Come on, it is becoming dark. Let us head over so your trip home will not be in complete darkness,” Aiden said warmly, as they got upon their horses.
They all rode over quickly and entered the Infirmary hurriedly. Agnes was waiting for them, having been informed by the Sentinel that Aiden would be arriving soon. She led them to Laurel’s room, then smiled telling them she and Master Elphin would return shortly. As Aiden and Owain walked into the room, past the guards, they found Phineas as well as the rest of the family over by the large table, having something to eat. Aiden looked over at King Fergus meaningfully, and gave him a slight but distinct nod. The King looked over at Aiden and smiled slightly at him, and nodded back to him the same discreet way.
Caleb noticed this and then asked simply, “Well?” Caleb said looking at him meaningfully.
“Yes,” Aiden answered back with a wry grin.
Looking over at Laurel, Aiden smiled as she looked quite comfortable, noticing she had her own blankets on the bed. Everyone smiled as Aiden and Owain entered the room. Aiden walked over to Laurel’s bedside and gently stroked her hair, leaning down and lightly kissing the top of her head. Owain looked on, standing at the foot of the bed, looking miserable and heartbroken. Caleb walked over to them smiling and as he put his hand on Owain shoulder, it caused Owain to startle unexpectedly. Caleb looked at him with a curious expression, before turning to Aiden.
“She is doing much better. Her fever has finally broken. She is resting quite peacefully now,” Caleb said, looking and sounding in a much calmer mood.
“Well that is good to hear. I see she is developing quite the black eye. Who would have thought our Princess would ever get a black eye,” Aiden said looking up at Caleb smiling, who just gave him an annoyed smirk. “So Mother I see you have decided to move in. Do you think you have enough furniture and flowers in here? I see there is still room to walk, so probably not,” Aiden asked, with a charming smile.
Queen Alana gave him a smile as she rolled her eyes, while the others just laughed, with the exception, of Owain, who just smiled sadly unable to take his eyes from Laurel. Caleb noticed this and put his hand again on Owain’s shoulder.
“How is Imagin doing at this time?” Caleb asked warmly.
“A bit better. She was of course quite beside herself when I met up with her,” Owain replied, his voice sounding nervous and distracted.
“I have no doubt. She and Laurel have become quite fond of each other very quickly,” Caleb mentioned, still watching Owain closely.
“Yes...indeed. We both adore Laurel,” Owain said pausing briefly. “I am so very sorry what has happened to Laurel, Caleb. If there is anything that I can do to make this up to her, please let me know,” Owain stated emotionally.
Caleb smiled at Owain’s heartfelt statement, his eyes registering an understanding that Owain did not detect. Caleb leaned over and hugged him briefly, giving him a friendly pat on the back and then looked at his concerned expression.
“Thank you Owain. Do not worry any longer for Laurel, she did in fact wake for a few moments. Now that her fever is gone, Master Elphin feels she will awaken at any time now,” Caleb spoke reassuringly.
“Did she? That is wonderful. Well I shall most definitely be staying here with you old man. Did she know you were here with her?” Aiden asked cheerfully.
“Well Master Elphin thought she was delirious, but I felt she knew I was here. She was able to speak to me as if she understood,” Caleb said smiling, as he walked over and stroked her hair softly.
“What did she say?” Aiden asked, smiling at him.
“She apologized for jumping off the cliff and upsetting me,” Caleb answered, laughing lightly.
“That actually makes sense, as that was the last thing she did before she lost consciousness,” Aiden replied smiling down at her.
“Well....I feel I should return home now. So I will bid you all goodnight. Please let me know when she awakens, Caleb,” Owain said, with a shaking voice as he turned to walk out of the room.
“Take care Owain. Give the family my regards,” Caleb said to him meaningfully.
Owain smiled sadly and began to leave as the Queen walked up to him.
“Fergus and I will walk you to the entrance dear,” Queen Alana said, as she entwined her arm with his, and walked with him out of the room.
“Well gentlemen, I feel that now is a good time for me to return to the Lodge briefly, to change into more comfortable clothing. I feel more at ease knowing her fever is over. I shall return shortly,” Phineas said smiling tiredly, as he walked over to give Laurel’s hand a small squeeze.
He left the room and Caleb returned to his seat next to Laurel, while Aiden went over to the table to sample some of the food that had been brought over. Taking a plate with him, Aiden then walked back over and placed a chair next to Caleb, as he thoroughly began to enjoy a piece of roast chicken.
“It is Leland,” Caleb stated quietly, as he looked over at Aiden.
“What? What did you say?” Aiden asked, chewing noisily.
“Leland. That is who you have in custody,” Caleb stated clearly, grinning mordantly at his brother.
“That obvious was it?” Aiden asked, as he continued eating.
“The poor pathetic sop. I have never seen him so nervous and guilt ridden,” Caleb said, shaking his head.
“He was unaware you did not yet known. He was afraid you would not let him see Laurel,” Aiden remarked, as he devoured a sweet roll.
“He had nothing to do with this. You and I have helped raise him and Imagin. I would certainly treat them no differently. I feel for poor Ealish and her boys. The stupid selfish bastard. What was he thinking he would accomplish? Did he really feel he would get away with it?” Caleb asked bitterly.
“We may never know his actual motive. I must admit Caleb you are taking the news of who it is very well,” Aiden remarked, with a bit of surprise.
“Well, it could only be a handful of individuals. I fell asleep briefly, and after I woke up I was more clear-headed about things. I began to run the names of the possible culprits through my head and his name did come to my mind. I admit there is a small part of me that is not completely surprised. Leland was never particularly close to the family. He was always the first to complain about any kind of changes. Being from Morene’s Clann, her death never set right with him. Not to mention he does nothing but resent and complain about anyone from Gwenlais. Pathetic, ignorant farmers, he would call them. I already became angry here when I demanded to know who it was, Father and I got into a shouting match. It was then that Laurel cried out and woke up for a few moments. She woke, looking terrified, calling for me. I was able to calm her, which was when her fever broke. I watched her fall back to sleep. I realized then, it just did not matter. Whoever it was would be found, and be made to answer for his crime. My place is here, with Laurel. After I can bring her safely back to the Lodge, I will go and confront him. It really does not matter if it is today or tomorrow,” Caleb said thoughtfully, as he reached over and caressed Laurel’s bruised cheek again.
“Father will be pleased with your calmer set of priorities. Which is good as he will be a bit disappointed in me I am afraid,” Aiden said, as he took another bite of food.
