[Chyril 27 MT] Visiting the Murrelbuck's

[Yin Lorin]

Returning back in time for breakfast Yin went to make sure everyone was ready. “Ardar and N’Kallor, I will need you to check up on our prisoner. Do not let him speak, make sure he is still bound up and we will interrogate him later. Then you must see how Baros is doing. If he needs anything, see he gets it.”

“Constance and I must go to the Murrelbuck estate to take care of some business for the Baron Kriesborn. I hope we will be back by trades tide if the portal works correctly.” He sighed, he never really liked using a portal.

Yin took the time to dress in something more fitting a paladin, his armor and a sword strapped to his side. He waited for Constance, going to the portal with her. He did not know what to expect at the Murrlebuck’s, what kind of greeting or what sort of repercussions for what they were about to do. He knew he would stand by her, no matter what the ramifications were. The Regent was not a man of god, he was not the Avatar, so yes he could be corrupted. His word was law, and for some reason this did not sit well with Yin. Only a man who heard the voice of the One should make the laws. “You are doing the right thing, Constance, I am proud of you.” He told her as they walked.

[Guido Cercatoro]

Ardar and N’Kallor readily agreed to Yin’s instructions although both looked weary and distressed by recent events. An apprehensive looking Constance soon joined Yin and the two travelled through the portal to Murrelbuck.

***********************************************************************

The Portal in Murrelbuck is situated in a clearing in a small wood close to Buck manor. Lady Magadalena reluctantly acceded to the construction of the device but insisted on what she termed a safe distance” between the portal and her manor house. A small wooden guard hut stands a few paces from the portal and it is usually tended by at least two armed retainers who questioneany new arrivals. A wide track leads out of the wood and then splits into two forks, the right hand one leading to the village and the left hand to the gates of the manor.

Yin and Constance emerged from the portal into a bright fine and sunny morning. The young mage looked queasy and quickly knelt before a nearby bucket into which she deposited the contents of her stomach.

“Yer’ll be alright in a few flickers,” laughed one of the guard in a kindly voice. He was a tall, swarthy and dark-bearded man with a sword swinging from his belt. A second younger and bored-looking man louged in the open doorway of the guard hut.

“Now, if yer will tell me yer names and the nature of yer business here, I can soon get yer on yer way.”

[Yin Lorin]

Yin did not like portals, in fact he despised them. All it took was one bad experience, but it was a really bad one. Using the portal was necessary though, and he knew it, but it did not mean he had to like it. When they stepped through it took all his resolve not to retch like Constance was. He could taste it in his mouth but closed his eyes and took four long slow breaths, focusing his mind on calming his body.

When he was feeling well enough to speak he said “Sir Lorin and the Lady Constance, we are here to see the Lord Murrelbuck.” He told the man while pushing back his unruly blond hair. He offered a hand to Constance when she was done retching. “It is not far to the home, is it?” He asked in a pleasant manner. They had not brought horses, so he hoped it was not too far, he did not feel like a long hike.

Once they had the directions he headed on his way. As they walked along the road he smiled at Constance. “I am glad you are here,” he added after a breath, ”with me.” He could not help but stare at her as they walked.

[Guido Cercatoro]

“Ain’t no Lord,” replied the dark-bearded guard. “Just the baroness but she’s worth many a Lord.” The guard jested but there was clear respect in his voice.

“I recognise you m’lady,” continued the guard. “You were here with Regent so I guess that it will be fine if you go straight on to the manor. Just take the left hand fork, it is only a few burns walk.”

The colour had returned to the young mage’s face and she inclined her head in thanks before accompanying Yin down the path. As they walked down the path, out of sight of the guards, Constance returned Yin’s stare with a disarming smile.

“I am glad that you are with me. It seems seldom that we are alone. When this business is over, we need to find time to talk, paladin.” She hesitated for a few flickers. “We must find out the extent of our feelings for each other.”

As the two companions reached the edge of the forest they would catch their first sight of the manor.

Buck Manor is the seat of the Baroness of Murrelbuck, Lady Magdalena. It is a pleasant, relatively small manor located close to a forest within which is located the Hollywood Portal. The three storey, rectangular manor is surrounded by well cultivated gardens at the front and vegetable patches to the rear. The gardens are in turn surrounded by a medium height hedge. At the gate to the manor is a small lodge within which resides the gatekeeper who greets all new arrivals to the manor.

The gate was some thirty paces away from the edge of the forest. An elderly well-dressed gatekeeper stood at the entrance to the manor and an armed guard was close by.

[Yin Lorin]

He swallowed hard as they walked. Their feelings for each other. “That… that would be nice.” He stammered a little. What did he feel for her, he liked her, this was true. Love? Well, he hardly knew her, the real her it seemed. Could he love a woman? He had to look into the rules concerning this. Perhaps like all the knights in the stories, they loved women, just they never were immoral with them. That had to be the way. He set the idea down, satisfied with the result.

“I thought it was her father who was made sick, is he not a Lord?” He asked Constance as they walked to the Gate. “I will let you do the talking, they seem to know you.”

[Guido Cercatoro]

“Lady Magdalena is the Baroness of Murrelbuck,” explained the blond-haired mage. “She has no husband and so rules alone. However, she gave refuge to Baron Kriesbon when his estate was confiscated after he supported Duke Eisenreich. Kriesbon is the father of Lady Cerise, whom the Regent covets to get his hands on the Kriesbon estate”

The elderly gatekeeper recognised Constance from her previous visit and, assuming that she was a friend of the Regent, rapidly allowed her access to the manor. The door was opened by a formally dressed servant who led the two new arrivals to a pleasant parlour room. Within the room were a number of comfortable chairs covered in rich deep green velvet and a large, low table.

Within a few flickers, the door was flung open and in swept the Lady of the house. She was dressed in a silken pale green dress that rustled as she walked. The Baroness was a striking woman: tall, curvaceous, brown-haired and with full, rosy lips standing out from her smooth creamy face.

“Miss Devois,” said Lady Magdalena, nodding to Constance before turning to the Paladin. “I do not think I have had the pleasure of having you in my home, sir? I am the Baroness of this estate. Pray introduce yourself.”

[Yin Lorin]

He nodded, that explained a lot. The Regent was not acting honorably, this was true. The realization that he must fight against the Regent to do what is right sank in, and he had a bad taste in his mouth. He did not like breaking the law, but those who were making the law were breaking it. It was a wicked paradox, but one that he faced before with Baros. Was the solution the same with the Regent? “It will come down to blood, in the end, won’t it?” He whispered softly. He knew the answer, but hoped it was wrong.

The house was impressive, even in the country the nobles lived well. He thought his family was well off to have a wooden floor in their house and a second story. When the Baroness entered he bowed, she was a pretty woman, this was appear ant. Why there was no Baron was a small puzzle. “I am Sir Lorin, Precept of the Royal Temple Order of the One. You have a wonderful house, Baroness.” He introduced himself. “I thank you for your hospitality.”

He turned to Constance, to allow her the chance to lead the way again, this was her quest after all.

[Guido Cercatoro]

“I fear that there are many in the court, such as Leonius who lust for power, so you may be right. There may be blood spilt.” The young mage shrugged. “Yet, there are some who are more honourable. Indeed, I sense that the Baron of Brie is an honourable man. He could have dealt with me far more harshly than he has, although I am sure he would do anything to prevent the regent from marrying the Lady Cerise.”

**********************************************

As Yin mentioned, the Royal Order, the Baroness appeared taken aback. “You are welcome her, Sir Lorin. It is rare we have such illustrious guests in our little backwater. Yet, I thought that the Order was defunct. Has it risen again?”

When Yin had replied, Constance spoke.

“I was concerned for the health of the Duke when I was here last,” she said quietly. “I feel that I may perhaps be able to help, for I have some skill in this matter.”

Magdalena frowned. “The Duke continues to suffer. There is no sign of recovery. The Lady Cerise has arrived to take care of him and she did mention that you might arrive with some remedy."

“And you Paladin,” continued the Baroness, turning back to Yin. “Why are you here? Are you this lady’s companion or do you have other business?”

[Sebastian Beauvais]

Sebastian arrived in the clearing near Buck manor, a little green around the gills but at least still standing. He'd been through enough portals to steel himself against the nausea, but it was still a distinctly unpleasant experience. As hard as it was for him to admit, even riding was more pleasurable. He had no choice in this instance of course, as time was of the essence.

After having collected the potion from Travis at the Laughing King early that morningtide, Sebastian had changed from his commoner clothes into something a little more suitable for a visiting baron. He wore dark blue chased in silver, his tunic and trousers tending toward a militaristic functionality. His rapier hung from his waist, and nestled in a leather pouch on the other hip was the precious vial of curative.

After several deep breaths to steady his lurching stomach, Sebastian looked for Magdalena's guards. He needed to get up to the manor immediately.

[Guido Cercatoro]

Sebastian was quickly waved through by the portal guards and manor gatekeeper who all recognised the Baron from his previous visit. The door to the manor was opened by a well dressed servant.

“Good morningtide, Baron. The Baroness is speaking with some other guests who have just arrived, Miss Devois and Sir Lorin. Are you a member of their party or do you wish to wait to see the Baroness alone?”

[Yin Lorin]

Yin looked to Contance, then to the Hostess. “I am here to escort the Lady as well as see that the health of the Duke is returned. I may be of some aid in helping him return to proper spirits. I will offer a blessing on him.”

He wanted to say more, his business was more. Time would have to wait and see what happened with the Duke.

[Sebastian Beauvais]

"I am here on related business," replied Sebastian, referring to Constance and Yin, "but perhaps you could show me to another guest before I intrude upon Lady Magdalena's current conversation."

"I understand Lady Kriesbon is present as well, attending to her father? I have a message for her of some import, and would deliver it immediately if at all possible," he explained in confidence. "I am sure your mistress will not mind a short delay in announcing my arrival, occupied as she is?"

[Guido Cercatoro]

The Baroness gave a curt nod in response to Yin’s words. “I am sure that your blessing will be most welcome. In truth, Kriesbon’s health wanes, so I will be happy to accept any help. Please follow me.”

The Baroness would lead Yin and Constance up an elegant flight of stairs to the first floor before turning down a long corridor. As they neared the end of the corridor, a door opened and a distressed looking Cerise entered the corridor. Her face was tear stained and her blond hair rumpled and askew. Glancing towards the newcomers, a look of relief swam across her face.

“I fear for my father. Constance, you must try to help him immediately.”

*************************************************************************************************

“Lady Kriesbon is with her father,” replied the servant. “She did ask to be told if you arrived, so I will escort you to her.”

The servant led Sebastian up the stairs and he arrived just in time to hear Cerise’s words to the mage. So caught up was she in her grief that she did not immediately see the Baron’s approach.

**************************************************************************************************

“Of course I will try,” said Constance somewhat apprehensively. “However, I work best alone with no distractions. Will you allow me to tend your father alone?”

Cerise looked flustered as if unsure how to respond. The Baroness frowned. “Is that wise….”

[Yin Lorin]

The sight of the woman struck Yin. He wondered how he would feel if this was his mother or father who was sick. Suddenly he understood what she was going through. He prayed softly that they would be able to help this man, and perhaps his own blessing on the man could undo what ever foul deed the other man did.

“I am sure she will be fine on her own.” He said to the ladies. “If your father’s safety and health hang in the balance, then it is best she works under her best conditions.” He looked at Constance, he was giving her all his trust. There was this nagging reminder of Tinally in the back of his head. If this man died because of her… the thought was pushed back with the idea he would think about it when that time came.

"We would not be here if we did not wish to help you. I know asking for your trust is a hard thing right now, but we must ask for it." He told himself more then them.

[Sebastian Beauvais]

"Besides," chimed in Sebastian from the rear, announcing his presence to all, "Miss Devois understands how serious this situation is, for everyone." His tone was one part trust and one part warning, and his crisp blue eyes did not waver from Constance as he delivered the message. She knew what continued treachery would bring upon her.

"Thank you for coming," he said to both Constance and Yin. "I know this will not be a wasted effort."

Sebastian then cast his gaze to Cerise, his eyes softening at the sight of her disheveled appearance. He couldn't imagine the torment this was putting her through, and if he only could he would rush to her and wrap her in his protective embrace, and shield her from all the hurt in the world. It pained him to have to stand there as a respectful peer, observing the rites of their society even in this most trying of times. Soon this charade can end, he thought. I must stay strong. The barest of caring smiles curled the corners of his mouth, in the hopes Cerise would grasp the power of emotion behind it.

"I apologize for this unannounced visit, Lady Murrelbuck," the young baron said, turning his eyes to Magdalena briefly. "Unfortunately, circumstances warranted speed over proper etiquette. I'm sure you understand."

"Now, Lady Kriesbon," Sebastian ended, finally officially addressing Cerise. It sounded so cold, the way he must speak with her! And worse, he was about to lay the burden of this terrible decision upon her bowed shoulders. "It is your decision in the end, whether to allow Miss Devois her privacy with your father. What would you have us do?"

[Guido Cercatoro]

Yin felt no direct response to his quick prayer beyond a brief, warm feeling of reassurance and his attention was quickly directed to making the case for Constance to attend to Kriesbon alone. Constance gave him grateful smile but looked disconcerted for a flicker as the Baron arrived and spoke with a mixture of support and veiled warning. The young mage gulped but then nodded her head. “Thank you, Baron.”

Cerise looked startled at Sebastian’s arrival but she stood still wringing her hands in worry as he spoke. After a few flickers, she turned to Constance. “Please attend my father. I hold you responsible for his safety.”

The young mage placed her hands on Cersise’s, giving them a quick squeeze. “I will do my best, be assured of that.” With a last darting glance at Yin, the blonde girl entered the ailing Lord’s chamber, closing the door softly behind her.

“Welcome, Baron,” said the Baroness, an expression of perplexity flashing across her face. “Now would someone please tell me what on earth is going on here.” She looked in turn at Sebastian, Yin and Cerise. The young noblewoman returned the Baron’s gaze but her eyes were full of anguish, fear and uncertainty. The tears had dried but she her whole body was tensed and stiff.

[Sebastian Beauvais]

"If there is a nearby room where we might sit while Miss Devois attends the Baron?" Sebastian replied to Magdalena, acknowledging their hostess' right to an explanation. He tried to give Cerise a reassuring glance, but given the constraints of the current situation he wasn't sure how well his support would translate. When the quartet were comfortably seated Sebastian began.

The young baron had no qualms speaking openly in front of all three. Cerise he trusted completely of course and Magdalena, scheming beauty that she was, had shown the family kindness that spoke of her loyalty to the Kriesbons. That left Yin, and the paladin knew enough already via Constance to make the little extra Sebastian would reveal of no special import.

"I apologize once again for the sudden spate of visitors this morningtide, Lady Murrelbuck. It was I that orchestrated their arrival without much notice, and for that I am sorry. But it was all with the Baron's health in mind, so I trust you will forgive my presumptuousness." Considering Magdalena a family friend of the Kriesbons, Sebastian expected no complaints when she learned all this commotion was in the best interests of Cerise's father.

"I have discovered the Baron's recent health troubles are not of natural origin," he stated, cutting directly to the chase. "And if intervention is not provided shortly he will be in dire straights indeed. Obviously none of us wants that," Sebastian observed gently, for Cerise's sake, "and for reasons beyond the obvious. Perhaps most importantly, we cannot have people believing they can successfully attack the nobility in such a cowardly manner. The implications of that would be pure chaos." Let Magdalena think his primary motive was preservation of a fellow noble for the institution's sake. He was not worried about portraying that attitude in front of Cerise, for he knew she understood his heart. As for Yin, if he'd even thought about his opinion, the young baron might worry the paladin would take this as further evidence of what truly concerned the noble class. But the holy knight's opinions on the matter were of little consequence to Sebastian, and did not trouble his thoughts.

"That is why I located Miss Devois, who has some particularly special capabilities appropriate to this situation. In addition, I have secured this antidote," Sebastian pulled forth Travis' vial at that moment, holding it up between thumb and forefinger to show to the others, "which I am told should counteract the remaining effects of the Baron's condition."

Sebastian's face darkened a little as he turned his eyes to the vial, considering the potion within for a few flickers. "Though I believe the provider of this remedy was honest with me, the temporary effects this medicine will induce give me pause. It occurs to me that we would be hard-pressed to tell whether this concoction was actually working or making things worse."

It was a thought that had haunted Sebastian from the moment he had left the Laughing King earlier that morningtide. What if Travis was intent on killing the Baron, knowing it would come back to haunt Leonius? What if the DeRohms were glad to have the old baron out of the way, to further secure their own power with the probable King Eisenreich? Travis worked for them now, after all. There were other possibilities too, and many were not favourable to Cerise's father.

The young baron looked from Magdalena to Cerise, concern evident upon his freckled face. He described briefly the initial effects the potion would create, if Travis were to be believed. "I recommend, if he has the skill, that your physician examine the contents before it is administered to the Baron. Some confirmation would greatly ease my mind, I must admit."

[Yin Lorin]

The Paladin did not sit, but found a place near a window. His green eyes studied the countryside, she had a good amount of land, all of it farmable. The countryside had changed since he was a boy.

Sebastian was explaining things, things he knew already. Why had this man taken such an interest in this baron? If he died, what would become of Constance? He knew what would happen, and it made part of him ill to even consider it. He would have to watch her die.

She would not die, he would not let it. He would find a way, the One would help. She had not done anything to offend the One, had she?

He remained quiet, seeing as the conversation was between the women and the Baron. It felt as if the Nobles did not see the Paladin at times, he guessed it was because they were so wrapped up in their own world to see those who were not of the same class.

Here they were, fussing over some old man who was dying, while in Kings Court there were a dozen more old men dying as well. Why was this one more important than the rest? A Noble did not see past their own interests, he nodded to himself, he could not become like that, he had to remember to see and be motivated by the greater good.

[Guido Cercatoro]

Lady Magdalena led the group to a nearby room, which appeared to function as some sort of meeting room for it contained a large table surrounded by a number of chairs. The group were soon seated and Sebastian was able to outline his story. Cerise remained silent, still deeply engrossed with her father’s ailment; the Paladin also kept his own counsel. Lady Magdalena was more expressive, her mouth drooping open ever wider as the tale unfolded. It was evident that the events that had transpired in her manor were completely unknown to her. Either that or she was a consummate actress.

“So you are saying the Baron has been poisoned,” gasped Magdalena, for once losing her composure. “In my house?”

The noblewoman was quick to gather her wits and assent to the Baron’s request, despatching a servant to fetch the physician.

“How have you come by this information, Baron? And who is the culprit? And why? And, oh my goodness, what does all this mean …” Magdalena was bubbling with questions and clearly desperate for more explanation.

[Sebastian Beauvais]

Sebastian let Lady Murrelbuck express her outrage and dismay at the news, only speaking up once she had settled herself down somewhat.

"I'm afraid that's exactly what it looks like," he nodded sadly, confirming the poisoning theory. "As to who is responsible, I have my suspicions but it would be irresponsible for me to speculate publicly just yet. If I were wrong, the stigma of such a grievous accusation would perhaps irreparably damage the slighted individual. So I am afraid you will have to bear that suspense for a while longer."

"What we must concentrate on now is returning the Baron to health," Sebastian reinforced, as much for the distraught Cerise as Magdalena. "Then we can go after the malefactor who has dared perpetrate such a scheme, and make sure by example that none are so bold again."

[Yin Lorin]

Yin had nothing to add, so he did not speak. He did refrain from sitting, rather, moving away from the nobles to look at the room. Much of this did not concern him, he figured, so he best not pry but give them their space. If they had a question for him they would ask. The Baron seemed to have everything wrapped up at any rate, and his plan of action seemed clear.

Yin walked over and looked at the book shelf. He loved books, and it was interesting to see what others collected to read.

[Guido Cercatoro]

(OOC: I have assumed the Seb lets the physician have the antidote)

The physician arrived quickly. He proved to be an elderly and somewhat infirm man but was quick to grasp the importance of the potion after a few quick words from Magdalena. Taking the bottle from Sebastian, he carefully pulled out the stopper and sniffed the liquid before tasting a drop on his lips.

“I can detect nothing malevolent in this mix,” said the physician. “The odour of one or two familiar herbs is apparent but I honestly do not know all the ingredients that are contained within it. Whether it will cure the ailment is impossible to tell but I suspect it will do little harm.” The healer handed the bottle back to the Baron.

Yin’s examination of the books in the room revealed nothing of interest beyond one or two books that appeared to detail the history of the Western Kingdom. His perusal of these tomes was interrupted by the arrival of Constance. The young mage was flushed and tired but smiled as she entered.

“I have done all I can do and it has been a success. However, Cerise’s father is still ill. What I have done has cured only a small part of what ails him.” The blond woman moved close to Yin, leaning on him slightly for support. “I feel a little faint,” she murmured, her eyes glazing over as she glanced at the Paladin.

Cerise moved to stand before the Baron, a determined look on her face. “We must do this quickly.” She strode to the door waiting for Sebastian to follow. At a nod from Magdalena, the physician moved to accompany Cerise but Magdalena remained in the meeting room. If Sebastian accompanied Cerise to Kriesbon’s bedroom, he would find the nobleman lying unconscious on his bed. His breathing was easy, perhaps reflecting the impact of Constance’s ministrations. However, his face was a sickly yellow colour.

[Sebastian Beauvais]

Sebastian quietly thanked the physician for his analysis, accepting back the vial after the elderly man had delivered his verdict. Not versed in medicine beyond the basic of binding cuts and such, the young baron was greatly reassured by the expert opinion Magdalena's doctor provided. It seemed his read of Travis had been correct after all.

Constance's reappearance and her conditional good news sent a flush of success racing through Sebastian. Not only was it heartening to hear that Baron Kriesbon had responded well to the sorceress' ministrations, but it was by Sebastian's hand that such aid had come to pass. The altruistic mixed with the selfish in a most pleasing manner, leaving the young baron eager to press on with the final step of the remedy.

His crisp blue eyes met Cerise's own as she moved to stand before him, and he could see by the set of her jaw that she had reached her decision. Nodding in supportive agreement, he rose to follow her out of the room but paused to look over at the sorceress and her paladin companion.

"Thank you for doing this, Miss Devois," he said with honest appreciation. "Your courage does you credit." Sebastian's eyes lingered a flicker on the diminutive lass, before rising to Yin's face. "And to you as well, Sir Lorin. Your steadfast support has been an immeasurable contribution as well." With a slight nod Sebastian then left to follow Cerise, now joined by the physician, to Baron Krieson's sickbed.

Entering his room, Sebastian fought to keep the dismay from his face as he finally glimpsed the old baron's condition. The regular rise and fall of his chest was encouraging, but certainly the colour of Baron Kriesbon's skin was enough to give anyone pause. Putting on a brave face for Cerise's sake he moved to her father's bedside, the curative held gingerly in his right hand.

"I think...I think it best if the good doctor administers this potion," he said, suddenly feeling nervous in the face of such infirmity. "I haven't the proper training, and there is no room for error." Sebastian glanced at Cerise, confirming she was set upon this course, before handing the physician the vial and shifting his position to provide him access to the baron's bedside.

If the old healer accepted, Sebastian placed himself at Cerise's side, his hand searching for hers to give it a supportive and comforting squeeze while they waited for the outcome of Travis' remedy. The One watch over us and lend His mercy, Sebastian offered in silent prayer, for all their sakes.

[Guido Cercatoro]

Kreisbon's Bedroom

The physician took the vial and poured some of the liquid into a mug as Sebastian squeezed Cerise’s hand. She responded with a grateful smile but the tension scarcely abated from her face.

“I do not know what dose should be given,” explained the old man. “So my plan is to give the Baron around one third of the mixture. If there is no obvious ill effect within a few burns, I will give a second third and the remainder in two marks time. If one of you would please support the Baron’s head.”

Cerise rushed to comply with the physician’s request. She supported her father’s head, whilst the elderly medic supplied the first dose of the potion. Kriesbon coughed a little but there was no sign of any ill effect. Satisfied, the physician gave a second dose with the same result.

“I will return shortly to give the final dose. Please send for me if there is any change in his condition.” The kindly man departed.

The young blond girl remained by her father’s side, staring at his face. “Thank you Sebastian,” she murmured quietly. “Whether my father lives or dies, I know that you have done all that could be done. I will never forget you actions.”

[Sebastian Beauvais]

Sebastian moved closer to Cerise, crouching down beside the young lady at her father's bedside. "I could do no less," he said in response to her thanks, all pretense and formality stripped from his voice. "I would do anything for you, Cerise. You know that."

The young baron glanced at Kriesbon's face, trying to judge if Travis' potion had begun to work. Was the elder baron's colour improving a little? It was hard to tell, and he was certainly no doctor. And Travis had said something about vomiting - why wasn't that happening yet? Struggling with the thought, Sebastian fought to keep his expression upbeat.

"He will pull through this," Sebastian said, laying a gentle hand upon Cerise's shoulder. "The potion will work, and he will pull through. We just need to keep faith, and give him some time to respond."

The words, however brave, were aimed to convince not only Cerise but Sebastian as well. He had never lost a parent, and seeing his love's father so dangerously ill shook the foundations of the young baron's youthful invulnerability. Death was supposed to be a distant thing, at least away from the battlefield, and seeing it so personally outside that arena was disconcerting for the young nobleman.

"The One watches over us," he added absently. "He will pull through this..."