The Treasure of Gwenlais, page 98
part #1 of The Rienfield Chronicles Series
“I am afraid at this time there is nothing to do. I am grieved that the things that were lost today, can never be replaced. The only thing that I have left of my mother is her wedding gown. Her personal things she had as an Ollam, I will never have again,” Laurel’s voice breaking with emotion, as tears fell down her cheeks.
Caleb took her in his arms and held her close to him, smoothing her hair as it lay softly down her back.
“I am so very sorry my love. I wish there was a way to get them back for you,” Caleb said in a soothing deep voice. “Let us have a bite to eat, and then you can lie down, as I prepare the tent for the evening. I will read to you from one of your books to help you relax. We will simply start our day over again tomorrow. Things will be much more relaxed and comfortable in Heathwin,” he said trying to be reassuring, as he pulled away gently to wipe the tears from her face.
Caleb then placed the tray of food on the small table, he arranged two bowls of steaming fragrant stew and freshly baked skillet bread, as well as warm mugs of spiced tea. Laurel sat back in the chair looking at the food despairingly, as she found it difficult to even think of eating. Caleb noticed her expression and smiled sadly at her, knowing she would often go without eating when she was sad or anxious.
“Please Laurel. You must try to take but a few bites, especially after falling into the river. You need to keep your strength up,” Caleb spoke patiently as he gently clasp her hand in his. “Just a few bites of the stew and a piece of bread. Then just sit and finish your tea, that is all I ask,” he implored her quietly.
“Alright Caleb I will try,” Laurel replied in a soft shaky voice.
They ate their meal quietly and Caleb was happy to see that Laurel had eaten more than he expected. As she sat back in the chair sipping her tea, he stood up and softly kissed the top of her head.
“I need to go and take care of a few things, why do you not let me help you into bed, before I go?” he asked quietly.
Laurel looked up from her tea and looking over at the bed, shook her head slowly before answering.
“No, I am fine. I will just sit here and finish my tea, and wait for you to return,” she answered timidly.
Caleb crouched down beside her, as he gently tucked her hair behind her ears once again.
“Is there any reason you are afraid to lie in the bed Laurel?” Caleb asked her pointedly, his eyes soft but intense.
Laurel looked at him her eyes tearing as her lips began to tremble at his question.
“I am just upset about what happened at the river,” she whispered.
“I have no doubt you are dearest. I am as well. Let me assure you there is nothing to be afraid of. It was a very emotional and frightening experience.
Please let me help you put it behind you. I will hold you in my arms and be here for you all night. There is nothing to fear,” Caleb said, in a loving soft voice.
“You are not angry at me for cursing at you?” Laurel asked, in a voice choking back tears.
“No, no my love. Is that what you were worried about? My poor sweet Laurel. I was terrified of losing you down the river, which was what I was upset about. I am well aware your cursing was a result of being hysterical and in shock from the cold. No, I am not angry with you. I am very grateful you are alright. Come here my darling,” Caleb said has he placed her tea on the table, and lifting Laurel up in his arms carried her over to the bed.
Caleb laid her down gently and covered her to her shoulders, he then gently kissed her face several times, as he leaned over her, his arms on either side.
“Rest now Laurel, I will be back very soon. It is alright if you fall asleep, I will let you know when I return. Ta ghra agam ort,” he said, softly kissing her once more.
“I love you as well,” Laurel whispered back.
Caleb smiled at her warmly as he stood up and quietly left the tent.
Laurel gave a soft shaking sigh and fell asleep almost instantly in the warmth and comfort of the bed.
It was dark when Laurel opened her eyes, at hearing a noise in the tent. She could see a wide iron pot in the middle of the floor filled with embers from a fire, brought in to take off the initial chill of the night air. She did not sit up but instead glanced around and saw Caleb’s form outlined in shadow, as the only light in the tent was from the glow of the two moons. He was standing over near the table next to another trunk that had been brought in. Caleb seemed to be looking into the trunk and pulling out clothing from it. He then began to undress and change into the clothing he had taking from the trunk. Laurel watched him in silent fascination, even though she was not able to see him clearly, his muscular form could be seen in the outline of the shadows. As he finished dressing he walked over and took a book from the table and lighting the lantern, turned to walk over to the bed. Laurel closed her eyes not wanting Caleb to realize she had been watching him.
He approached quietly, placing the lantern on a low small table next to the bed. He slowly and carefully got under the covers, drawing Laurel over to him with one arm while holding the book in his other hand. Laurel turned over on her side and opened her eyes, to find Caleb smiling warmly at her.
“How are you feeling my love? Are you feeling more relaxed since you rested a bit more?” Caleb asked her in a deep soft voice, which caressed her ears like a kiss.
“Yes I am. Are you sure you are not too tired to read? I will not mind if you should need to sleep now,” Laurel asked, with some concern.
“I feel fine dearest. Everything has been all taken care of. Aiden has just introduced Phineas to the wonders of the first watch. It will not be so bad for him. He will sit and mostly listen to old Patrol stories and then get up and walk around, sit back down and listen to more stories. It will tire him out quite proficiently, which will make him less annoying in the morning,” Caleb said smiling warmly at Laurel, especially after hearing her giggle.
“I was meaning to ask you, how is Aghna? I have been concerned about her since her scare in the river,” Laurel enquired, of her beloved mare.
“She is fine dearest. After she was calmed down, she was given a feeding of warm mash and covered in a nice wool blanket. I have had her placed with Lorcan, they have grown quite fond of each other. Funny how that has occurred is it not?” Caleb asked smiling at her.
Laurel giggled at the thought of her mare being enamored with Caleb’s stallion. “Well she does find him to be a handsome brute,” Laurel answered, giggling once more.
“Is this a trait she shares with her mistress?” Caleb asked her, in an enticing voice.
“Oh yes, I find him quite handsome as well,” Laurel answered giggling again.
“Well thank you, I find it most reassuring you find my horse handsome,” Caleb smiled at her roguishly, leaning over and kissing her forehead. “I am so happy to hear you laughing. My heart was breaking at your sadness earlier," he said, in a soft loving voice.
“I do not wish to dwell on sad things Caleb. Even though my heart still pains at losing my mother’s things, I wish to think about our future together. About my new life in Heathwin,” Laurel said in quiet reflection.
“I am very happy to hear you say that my love,” Caleb said warmly, as he brought her closer to him, and kissed her tenderly on her lips.
Caleb kissed her for a few moments until he felt her moving comfortably in rhythm with him. He placed the book on the side of the bed and began to caress her face and stroke her hair as he continued to tenderly kiss her. He did not kiss her deeply, as he wanted her to relax and enjoy his affectionate attentions without becoming overwhelmed by him. When he felt her body soften against him, he slowly stopped kissing her, gently moving her hair from her face.
“I have brought over the poems of Athract. Her poems are light hearted and relaxing, I thought it would be a suitable way to end such an arduous day,” Caleb replied smiling warmly.
“I agree. I always have pleasant dreams reading her poems before going to sleep,” Laurel answered smiling, as she curled up against Caleb her arm over his waist.
“I feel we could both use a few pleasant dreams tonight. But before I start reading, I wanted to know if you found the bed comfortable? Are you warm enough? I brought in an ember pot. I could bring another if you wish,” Caleb enquired, kissing her forehead softly.
“I am very comfortable Caleb, especially now that you are here. I do not wish you to leave again,” she answered, sounding drowsy and putting her arm tighter around his waist.
“Very well dearest,” Caleb said lovingly, as he kissed her forehead and then began reading softly to her, his rich voice soothing and comforting in the dark still night.
Caleb opened his eyes, wide awake as the undeniable presence filled his mind. He sat up and looked over at Laurel, as she lay peacefully sleeping. He got out of the bed carefully, so as not to wake her, and throwing on his long riding coat and boots walked quickly and quietly out of the tent.
As he made his way through the camp he was met by Aiden, who walked up to him hurriedly.
“I had a feeling you would be awake. You have company,” he said, with a knowing grin.
“Do you know what they want?” Caleb asked, as they continued walking to the edge of the camp.
“Caleb. You know they only speak to you. My guess is they know that Laurel is here. There is only three of them, and they are unarmed, with no warrior present. I am not completely sure but it looks to be your old friend Bleddyn is one of them. It is most definitely one of their Elders,” Aiden explained, as he led Caleb forward.
As they reached the edge of the camp Caleb could feel the presence even stronger, as he noticed everyone standing still and looking forward. Then standing just ahead of them were three Rabkins. They looked passive and unaffected by all the Sentinels, standing close and staring at them intently.
Caleb stepped forward smiling, as he placed his right arm out straight in front of him. The tallest Rabkin smiled back, stepping forward as well to meet Caleb, his arm also outstretched in front on him, as he placed his arm over Caleb’s and grasped his elbow. It was indeed the Rabkin Elder, Bleddyn. His prominent neck frill, of feather like hair, blowing gently in the light breeze. His large crimson eyes kind and benevolent.
“Good sunrise to you man Prince Caleb,” Bleddyn greeted in their melodious speech.
“Good sunrise to you also Elder Bleddyn. What be the privilege of seeing you?” Caleb asked respectfully, as Rabkin Elders rarely presented themselves personally without envoys or warriors.
“This be Eira, my mate. She also be Healer of our Homestead. She wish to share with the child Ollam. Also to give her gift,” Bleddyn gestured over to the female Rabkin, her long braids swaying in the breeze.
She smiled and bowed her head slightly to Caleb. Caleb smiled at their referring to Laurel as the child Ollam, as Rabkins lived for several hundred seasons. He was not surprised by their request, and paused for a moment to be sure he presented Laurel’s personal feelings without sounding disrespectful.
“Meaning no disrespect Elder Bleddyn. The strangers cause the child Ollam to be fearful of the Kindred people. She may not wish to share as yet with Eira, your mate,” Caleb said, as graciously as he could.
The three Rabkins looked at each other nodding and smiling sadly.
“Man Prince Caleb. You tell please, child Ollam, we wish no harm. Only wish to give sympathies for death of Queen Ollam. To give her special gift,” Eira spoke softly, her eyes warm and caring.
Caleb smiled back, impressed with their caring concern, and intrigued by wanting to give Laurel something. He leaned over to Aiden, Phineas, and Owain, who were watching with fascination Caleb’s interaction with them.
“They wish to meet with Laurel to express their sympathies concerning her mother. The female, Eira is a Healer, and she wishes to share with her,” Caleb informed them, in a hushed tone.
“No, no, no. This cannot take place. Her Highness has suffered enough Caleb. She will be far too distraught to deal with this....introduction. Tell them no Caleb,” Phineas said in a harsh whisper, as he looked nervously over at the Rabkins, who seemed to be amused by their conversation.
“I think you should talk to Laurel first, Caleb. They did after all help us to find the Rabkins that were sent to hunt for her,” Aiden offered, looking over at them for a moment. “They obviously mean her no harm,” he said looking at Phineas, putting a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
“There may never come another opportunity as this,” Caleb said, looking at them both intently. “I am going to speak to Laurel, and ask what she would like to do. I will not force her to share with the Healer, Phineas. I will however stress the importance of, at the very least, to greet the
Rabkins,” Caleb said, as he tried to address Phineas’ concerns.
“Please Caleb. Be patient with her. She may be very apprehensive,” Phineas said, his voice and face filled with concern.
“I will be very loving and understanding of her fears Phineas. I do not wish for her to be traumatized by this. If I approach this calmly it should ease her distress,” Caleb again, tried to relax Phineas’ concerns.
Caleb then turned once more to the three Rabkins, who were looking curiously, but amused at the interaction between the three men.
“I will speak to the child Ollam now Bleddyn. She still be sleeping, so it may be a few moments before you speak with her,” Caleb spoke, trying to express himself reasonably.
“Of course man Prince Caleb. We will wait patiently for the child Ollam. We be most happy to speak with her,” Bleddyn said, with what appeared to be a smile.
Caleb smiled and bowed slightly as the Rabkins returned the respectful gesture. Caleb then turned and made his way back to his tent. He was happy and relieved to find that Laurel was awake and sitting at the small table, brushing out her hair, still in her robe.
“Maidin mhaith dearest. How are you feeling this morning?” Caleb asked softly, as he knelt down in front of her.
“Much better this morning. I woke up and found you were not in the tent, I assumed you were bringing breakfast, so I got up and tried to make myself a bit more presentable,” Laurel said smiling sleepily, as Caleb reached up and touched her face.
“You look beautiful my love. I was not in the tent because we have received visitors this morning. They wish to meet with you my sweet Laurel,” Caleb spoke, in the same soft tone.
“Who are they Caleb? Why would they show up at the camp?” Laurel asked, with a bemused expression.
“The Rabkins who assisted us in finding the ‘strangers’ who were hunting for you, have come to see you. They wish to meet you, and if you are willing, a female named Eira, their Healer wishes to share with you,” Caleb spoke purposefully, watching for her expressions.
Laurel looked at him with wide eyes, and then looked away for a moment, as she took all of what Caleb told her to heart. He reached up and gently caressed her cheek again, smiling lovingly at her.
“How many of them are here?” Laurel asked quietly, as she looked back at him.
“There is only three. Bleddyn, a Rabkin Elder, I know very well. His mate Eira, and a youngling whom I do not know. I promise you dearest they mean you no harm. They only wish to meet you. I will be with you the entire time. This is a very rare occurrence my love, Rabkin Elders do not seek out humans, I am so far the only one. This could be the beginning of our long awaited end, of the conflict between our races,” Caleb said, with a quiet conviction, as he searched her face.
“Alright Caleb,” Laurel said quietly, after pausing for a few moments. “I shall meet with them. I do not wish to share with Eira at this time. I....I am afraid to do so Caleb. I am afraid it will be too much for me to deal with,” Laurel said, in a shaking voice.
“Of course mo stor. You do not have to share with Eira. I have explained this to them. For you to just come with me to greet them, is more than enough. Thank you my love. I truly appreciate you doing this. They will greatly respect your gesture,” Caleb said, then kissed her tenderly.
Caleb stood up and holding Laurel’s hand, helped her to her feet. He took her in his arms and held her close, lightly caressing her back, and kissing the top of her head. He held her closely for a few moments, before speaking.
“Are you ready to meet our guests dearest?” Caleb asked her, in a deep soft voice.
“I suppose I am. You should take me now, before I lose the courage to do so,” Laurel said, with a nervous giggle, trying to hide her fear.
Caleb stepped back slightly to smile at her.
“Come mo ghra,” he said warmly, taking her hand and leading her out of the tent.
As they made their way to the edge of the camp where the Rabkins were waiting, all eyes were on Laurel and Caleb, some smiled encouragingly at Laurel, but all nodded their heads in respect and acknowledgement, of what she was about to do. Laurel paused for a moment as she was finally able to see the Rabkins standing quietly just ahead. Her eyes went wide with fear and curiosity. The first thing she noticed immediately was how these Rabkins seemed to exude an air of calmness and dignity. Their long pointed ears were upright, and their eyes showed no malice or anger. They all wore bracelets and necklaces of brightly colored beads and woven grasses. Around what would be their waist they wore long straight skirts of woven vines and leaves. Their graceful deer like heads, turning slightly in curiosity as Caleb and Laurel once again resumed their approach. When Caleb and Laurel stood directly in front of them, Caleb then began to speak to them, using their speech, which took Laurel by surprise, though she was aware he could speak to them.
“Kindred people. I wish to present to you, the child Ollam, her name be Laurel,” Caleb introduced Laurel to them, in a dignified manner.
Bleddyn stepped forward, holding out his arm in front of him, looking as if smiling. Laurel looked up to the towering Rabkin, and began to tremble, Caleb then placed his arm around her and leaned down to speak to her.
