The Lady in Waiting (Lady Bloody Ava & Greeneyed23)

Malachite snickered as his new cousin praised his wife above all else. His dear beloved cousin Rose couldn't have been in better hands. Asthey began parting way the man was surprised as his wrist was seized. Rallon had his full attention. A wise grin set out on Malachite's lips at the warning. Thanks. I'll keep an eye out, you just keep this family safe. You've got enough to worry about with all these girls. Well... I'll see you at the table."

Rose was the only one not at the table as she was playing in the kitchen with the cooks and the ladies. Laughter could be heard beyond the kitchen door as the help treated her as though she were a fragile doll, fearful of what would happen if the dear lady even so much as got a paper cut. "Relax, I'm fine." Rose giggled.

Soft hands kneaded at the dough for a pie. One of the ladies brushing the flour from the Lady's dress and some had managed to land on Rose's face. Rose did love playing in the kitchen every now and then.Eventually she was shooed out of the kitchen and a seat pulled out for her. Remnants of flour still dusted her rosey cheeks and a smile.

"Well, I was lending a hand with dinner and I made the pie. She looked upon her left hand and a small bandaged wrapped around her pinky finger. A mere scratch, but the help was not taking any chances. Soon the food came flooding out and adorned the table while filling the air with wondrous smells.

Cynthia suddenly howled and lunged at a far curtain ripping it down revealing a very frightened armed man who she leapt upon drgagign to the ground her fangs bared in a horrifying growl.

"Cynthia!"

The dog halted at the command of her father but she continued to glower at the man and growl.

Rallon stood and walked over to the man inspecting his face then laughed. "Well Robin. Why all the sneaking?"

He gripped the man's shirt and lifted him to his feet easily. Robin Hood, all in green once again, blushed and bowed to the ladies and Malachite, then looked nervously at Cynthia. Rallon touched the dog who relaxed but her eyes were still locked on the intruder with distrust.

Robin smiled. "I needed to speak to you and Lady Rose Rallon. And before you ask Fisher let me in. But then I was trying not to be seen...your bl-" Cynthia snarled at the intended insult. "Your blessed dog caught me out."

Rallon nodded and dragged the man to the table. "Eat first. Then we shall talk."

Robin started to argue but Rallon waved and he was supplied with many dishes and his stomach growled. "Alright..." He set to eating while Rallon took his seat and pointed at her spot beside him and he and Cynthia began to eat, though her eyes continued to watch Robin.

Soon the meal was filled with laughter and stories, either from Malachite, Robin, the girls, Rallon, or Rose, which satisfied the girls immensely. In the midst of it, Tia, Fisher, and the eldest returned, Fisher calm and relaxed, and the girls in simply glorious moods. Clearly the courting had gone well.

They waxed eloquent about their suitors for a while, ate some, chatted with Rose and their brother, then kissed everyone good night, even Robin, and with many giggles from the younger, they went off to bed.

Rallon noted the time and clapped his hands. "Alright you villainous vermin. Wash and bed with you." The girls moaned but their attendants arrived and curtsied to their master. Soon the girls had kissed Cynthia, Fisher, Tia, then in kindness Malachite and Robin goodnight, before hugging and kissing Rose goodnight, before they all tried to weasel more time out of their brother. Rallon ignored all pleading, hugged and kissed them all, tickling the youngest to their delight, and sent them off to bed, with Cynthia behind to round up stragglers.

Finally it was the adults alone and as the table was cleared, Rallon looked at Fisher at his right hand and Tia who was at Rose's right and nodded. "Very well Robin. What seems to be the trouble?"

Robin, full to bursting with the fine meal bit his lip then looked at Rose rather than Rallon. "I have need of a favor Milady....my beloved Marian, cousin to the King, has been betrayed. She is even now being held in the Tower of London...She needs rescue and sadly I am no longer Robin of Locksley Manor and Robin Hood cannot assault the Tower....I need you.... please help me?"

He was beyond desperate. He did explain that she was well treated and fed, but still the Tower was the Tower. John had seen to it many good men and women had died there alone and forgotten and Robin could not bear such a fate for his beloved.

Rallon listened thoughtfully. He was already developing a number of plans. John might release her to the care of Rose, York was so many miles from Sherwood, but he doubted it. More than likely this would require stealth and cunning and despite Robin's assumptions, they just might have a use for him. Still it was Rose's decision, not his this time. It was her name that would be risked, and her honor at stake. An unwed lady could not enter the care of any man not her relation and while Rallon was actually related to Richard very very distantly on his mother's side, it was from the wrong side for Marian and would not serve in court.

So it was that they all watched Rose.

Rose smiled and returned good night kisses give to her by her husband's plethora of sisters before it was just the adults left at the table. Rose was quite surprised when Robin looked and spoke directly to her. "That you even think that I would say 'no' to such a request is practiclly an insult. Of course. We must free Marian, whatever it takes."

The lack of hesitance was well noted. She'd heard a great deal about the tower and the sooner Robin and the rest of them would feel at ease. However, Rose was already slightly at ease because if anyone could fix this it was her beloved Rallon. She looked too him and she could already see the cogs in his eyes turning and conjuring ideas. Rose was a rare breed indeed. She was willing to strip her title just to be with Rallon, so it certainly didn't matter now.

With a well fed body and a relaxed moment, she was more than eager to hear what her husband would come up with. Until then it may prove a tad difficult for her to even fall asleep. Then again her husband may prove her wrong. "So... Rallon?" Rose humbly asked while having every intention to be included in the retrieval of Robin's beloved Marian.

"My love you will need to write to Her Majesty and explain our intent to visit her. We will set out tomorrow at noon. I want all the girls, everyone in this room, and at least a hundred well armed guards. We will be going to our manor in the Capitol. Write the staff there and inform them we will be coming."

He summoned a scribe and one of their quickest messengers. The scribe wrote the intended letters rapidly, got Rose's signatures, her seal, then the messenger was off in a flash while the scribe left.

Rallon resumed speaking only once the door was closed and the guard outside knocked upon it.

"Robin we go to London together. Along the way you will need to summon your men. You, Fisher and I will scout the Tower itself tomorrow evening. Rose, Tia and the girls will stay wit the Queen. i suspect we may need to spirit her along with us when we go. In fact Rose my love if you could convince her to come visit us I would be most grateful. I've a number of ideas but I can't expand upon any one of them until I've seen the situations. We will break her free though Robin. Of that I can assure you."

Rose merely nodded her head in agreement and when the scribe arrived she spoke and had her message jotted down, sealed it, and sent the scribe off with great haste. Onward she listened with no surprise that her husband had come up with a plan so fast. "Of course, my dear." She uttered with complete understanding. "We will get her back Robin, it's only a matter of time, I assure you my dear friend."

Rose sat herself up, not waiting for assistance. She was tired, despite her lack of wanting to go to bed earlier, but even the thought of their plans tomorrow were making her all the more tired. Over to Robin she walked and gifted him with a hug from behind and a kiss to his cheek. "We will get Marian back." With that she looked to all that occupied the room. "We work tomorrow, ladies and gentleman, and we will see you then."

She spoke with her hand over her womb with a weary smile upon her lips. If anything she needed to get ready for bed as it was only a matter of time before she did fall asleep. She walked towards her bedchambers and striped herself of her gown. At some silent point she had grown a little modest bout her figure. No doubt she would grow bigger with the baby, she couldn't help but look at her reflection in her mirror.

Rallon came up behind her wrapping his arms around her so his hands came to rest on her tummy his chin on her neck and shoulder his face peeking out through her hair, his eyes bright. "Have I told you lately how exceptionally beautiful you are?"

He kissed her ear. "You are more than the moon, sun, and all the stars above to mine eyes my love." he kissed again then sighed. "You are right. We do have a lot of work ahead of us." He pulled free going by the bed, giving Cynthia a head rub as he did so, the wolf looking beast looking at her mother curiously her own eyes bright her tail flopping.

He changed out of his suit and into only a pair of loose breeches which he tied off and let hang on his trim hips. He then returned to bed laying on his side while Cynthia wriggled up into his side laying her head on his chest waiting for her mother to join them.

A flush danced across the soft skin of her cheeks as Rallon wrapped his arms around her body and uttered the sweetest compliments and though it were fact. As he pulled away, leaving her face blushing, she slipped on a sleeveless night gown that went down to her knees. She crawled onto her side of the bed and pressed a kiss on top of her fuzzy child's head. "My sweet, sweet Cynthia."

Rose's eyes grew even more laden when the warmth and soft surface of the bed hugged her body. This child within was really sapping her strength and only now was she realizing just how truly tired she was. Tomorrow was going to be the start of something pretty eventful.

"Good night, my love." She whispered to Rallon with her head resting upon the soft surface of the pillow. These nights she slept so soundly, but that baby awoke her early. Not kicking or moving as he was still not developed that far along just yet, but her sickness would kick in and tea seemed to quell it. Early in the morning she would slip on a robe and her slippers with the ever guarding and nurturing Cynthia at her side to escort her to the kitchen. Their home as peaceful as the coming dawn.

Upon a chair in the dining hall she sat and sipped upon her tea in the silence. Her fuzzy child coming to rest upon her slippered feet. She could feel the warmth venture from down her throat and into her warm belly. Her guard was down and she felt so relaxed with Cynthia in her company.

Rallon touched her neck lightly and leaned in kissing her then sat beside her pouring his own tea. "Feeling alright my love?"

He slept far too lightly to miss it when she moved in bed, and certainly never when she left it.

He sighed smiling. He sipped his tea looking over at the window as the dawn began to shine. "It will be a beautiful day...."

Cynthia shifted laying against her parent's legs, her head on his shin and foot as she resumed her rest.

"I meant to ask my love. I haven't been to court in many years. Any changes in methods or rules I should know?"

That warm and comforting touch was recognizable instantly. Even her eyes didn't open to see who it was because she already knew just who it was.

"Yes, I'm feeling better, now."

Her eyes looked in the same direction after he spoke and alight smile danced upon her lips at the promising day ahead.

"Yes, things have changed, but I do not no if they are the same as I remember. I have not been to court but a few times since your departure. It grew uncomfortable for me with the various men..."

A slow and heavy sigh sounded before she sipped on some more of her tea. Her Majesty is a gracious host, but some noblemen tread a line and it seems to be the gathering for corruption and gossip and slander. It was much more fun when I was younger and ignorant."

She pressed a kiss to his cheek and savored the warmth of the cup of tea transferring to her hands which were wrapped snuggly around the vessel.

"I believe we need to get Marian back, shall we get ready?" As early as it was she couldn't very well go back to bed now.

He chuckled. "Forgive me my love but as to Marian I am making no plans. As you will recall the last time i saw the Tower was when my mother took us both there. We couldn't have been more than eight at the time. It was almost empty back then....at least that visit."

He reached out and ran a hand through her hair then caught a swath and used it to stroke her cheek with the silky tresses. "I will trust you to guide me properly. I never learned the appropriate stylings and mannerisms of a man at court. Richard had the illusion of them but tended to forget."

He smiled. "And we'll have to keep the girls in line. Much as I love them they are going to be quite wild to be at court...especially the eldest. they are already trying to get to bring their menfolk along. i said it was up to you." he winced. "My apologies my love but i wasn't sure. I've only met the Queen the once. She is a lovely lady but i know little of her and what she finds suitable."

He chuckled watching her. "The fates of us all, Marian included, rest upon you once more my love. I am sure of success. You are a wonder. And a beauty beyond compare." He leaned and gently drew her into a kiss, his complete and utter faith in her apparent.

Rose smiled and softly laughed as her own locks were brushed against her face. "You are a fast learner and there isn't much as your mother raised two charming and chivalrous sons." Her head came to rest upon his shoulder and she sighed softly with a smile as he continued to talk on. "Rallon, honestly, it is your decision as their guardian and my husband. I think the girls are quite taken with the boys, and you know that if they put so much as a toe out of line, they fear their sister above all else, including you."

Even Malachite may attend, but as he oh to often said there were 'no promises'. Her beloved husband was always showering her in praise. He was a kind, sweet, and courageous man in her eyes where others may have seen something else. She looked up and into the eyes of the man that held her heart in his hands and his kiss spoke volumes.

"With you at my side, I can do anything." She whispered softly as she relaxed, cuddled up at his side with her head resting upon his shoulder and her eyes slowly closing. All she could think about was all of them, family and friends, including Marian celebrating all being home. That, combined with the warm embrace of her husband was what helped her sleep throughout the night which led to her waking just a bit earlier than the others.

Even as she awoke to the next day, she didn't want to leave the bed until he awoke, which knowing him, would be soon considering she move to face him and admire him in his relaxed state. There was no way that Rose would let anyone down and they would have Marian back, not a single doubt in her mind.

Rallon did indeed wake with her movement, his body shifting toward her his hand coming up to catch in her hair as his eyes still closed he growled and pulled her into a kiss. "You know anyone else would be sick of my ugly visage by now."

He grinned and kissed her again then sighed. "Alright my love. time to get everyone up. we have a long journey ahead. And even more work. Cynthia awaken the girls."

The dog barked then set off, yanking blankets and sheets, tugging hair, and yowling, bouncing, licking and teasing each of the little Lady Grangers out of their beds while Rallon rose and dressed in his formal wear, this one a black nobleman's suit that he despised but looked quite regal in. He did not complain but he kept fiddling with the high tight collar, and he snarled at the maidservants when they tried to get him to style or cover his hair or anything more. THey were aghast that he insisted on wearing both his ceremonial elegant rapier, and a his more functional battle blade, both on the same hip, and try as they might tthey could not get him to give in. They even went so far as to beg Rose for help with her husband.

While they tried, Cynthia was brushed and groomed by her own father, she refused to let anyone save her parents, and now was laying in the sun her fur clean and well tended her eyes watching the two legs bustle about.

Robin was in his traditional brilliant green but now a darker shade than normal and his weapons had been polished, the bow hidden, and he was currently in a outfit much like Rallon's, different really only in color and size, as Rallon was several inches taller and for more heavily built than thew bowman. Rallon was waiting for Rose as despite her words she still commanded this convoy, so he spent the time brushing hair for his sisters, helping them choose dresses, and arguing with the eldest two about whether their suitors could ride in the carriage. He refused and though they begged he would not bend, though he had consented to let them come along if they rode with him and Robin and acquitted themselves honorably.

Tia was arguing with Thea and the other youngest about whether they should bring the Queen a gift as she knew full well that Rallon had purchased a number of fine gifts for the girls to give to her Majesty, and she also ahd to contend with their own concerns about Malachite, their brother's behavior, and they all wanted Rose to approve their dresses, ignoring Rallon, Robin, Fisher, and Malachite when they applauded and approved. Fisher was actually able to sit back for once as his guards were armed, armored, mounted and ready by the carriage, the luggage already tightly packed and tied down.

Rallon shoved the latest sister away and leaned back in his chair, reaching down to rub Cynthia's ears and getting his hand licked ion return, and looked at Robin. "You know I swear my mother must have truly have been mad to have all of us."

Robin laughed. "Perhaps Lord Granger. But she did a truly magnificent job with all of you. Even your brothers. mad monsters or not they were healthy strong and smart."

Rallon smiled. "Thank you Robin. Im grateful for the compliment to her. She was a wonderful lady. I miss her dearly. Father as well."

Rose smiled and there seemed no end to it when her husband snagged her in a kiss. "Yes, we have so much ahead of us." She openly agreed as she tossed her blankets aside and browsed through her attire as her husband got dressed. When he was finished and her maidservants entered to assist her into her attire and accessorize her husband, she couldn't help but laugh. Rallon was never one for formal wear when they were children and it was funny to watch him struggle with it now.

While two tended to Rallon and verbally pleaded to Rose to convince him to set aside his other sword, Rose was in no position to reply as one woman tugged on the back string of her corset with tremendous for,knocking the wind out of her. "These are of the latest trends in the capital, My Lady." The girl triumphantly stated as she tied the corset.

"They must have learned how to not breath there, you're going to squeeze the child right out of meat this rate. Their fuzzy child was tended to and The rest of Roses' attire was put on. A stunning light blue dress with a lace back that looked fitting for a queen. The girls were all dressed in their finest. Each one asking her approval and only two had their dresses changed. Little things were changed here and there and when all was said and done she led the bevy of beautiful young maidens to their transportation. All verbal concerns from there were easily quelled with answers from Rose. The girls were endlessly asking questions. From dancing with various men, to finding their husband... the carriages were brimming with excitement and nervousness.

With Rose finally seated she released a hefty sigh. She's been so busy this morning that she forgot to grab a bite to eat and the baby seemed to be none too happy about that. "Those girls are a labor of love."She sighed as her eyes gazed outside. The venture would be a lengthy one, but it promised to be relaxing. "Her Majesty said that she welcomes us with open arms while simultaneously scolding me for waiting so long to come and see her once more, especially in your absence.No doubt she will want to catch up with me on news of our family."

Rallon watched his wife and would have helped but despite the maiden's assurances, he could tell his clothing, once again, was having trouble containing him.

He did snag her after they had loaded everyone else and presented her with a a tray of cakes and pastries as well as milk. "Here you are my love. We need to find a better material for my clothing and from now on they will have to take the measurements I give rather than trying to make them skin tight..." As if called to illustrate the seams in his shoulders gave an ominous creak. He glowered at the beaming maids. "if they weren't so skilled I'd behead the trollops. I hate this suit my love."

He sighed and helped her into their private carriage where Cynthia was waiting seated on the front seat which they had had raised for this trip so she could see out the windows as she disliked confinement. She barked at her mother her long tail flopping eager to be off.

Rallon helped his wife in then sat beside her, the tray resting on the stand along with a trio of water jugs. "Do eat something my love. The baby will start bouncing on your kidneys if you don't."

He stuck his head out of the window and waved to the people staying, reminding them to only take appointments and to let NO ONE into the house unless they bore permission from Rallon or Rose. With that they set off and he leaned back sighing, watching Cynthia who was standing peeking out a porthole by the driver's box to watch the journey her tail lashing about wildly.

He smirked and gently nudged Rose. "She gets that from you." He then leaned over and kissed her neck, nibbling lightly to distract her from his teasing. "The Queen is certain to be envious that her friend outshines her so brilliantly. And that her friend's husband has such loud and disruptive plans."

It was a breath of fresh air to see her beloved husband with the tray of sweets. While it should have been no surprise that Rallon always knew her so well,it was always a nice reminder. A sweet, bright smile of thanks was her reply as she partook a sweet treat off the tray. Her smile was not going anywhere, not even if she willed it so.

Especially when Rallon started speaking about his attire once more. "It is true, your clothes seem to feel the same about you as they barely stay threaded upon you, my love." She laughed as he threatened the maids, knowing that he was the last person who would do such a thing for such a reason. Their fuzzy child seemed eager to get the voyage started and it was purely adorable to Rose.

"We are both very hungry. The child would be very much angry at mommy for forgetting to eat so many times if it were not for their daddy. She savored one more as Rallon stuck his head out of the window.Something about the sweet,soft, and creamy treats had her body feeling as though it would melt from bliss. Again Rallon made her laugh as he nudged her and claimed that their fuzzy child's behavior originated from Rose, herself. "I beg to differ. She has been, and always will be,a daddy's girl."

Instantly her eyes grew temporarily laden from her husband's well aimed kiss to her weak spot. "Mmm..." She purred lightly, "Her Majesty is sure to be envious of the handsome man that only I may call my husband. That and everything he stands for." A soft hand caressed at his jaw line before she drew closer and snagged a kiss from him. Sharing in the sweet flavor that lingered upon her tongue.

The time of fatigue slowly diminished as she grew ever more use to being pregnant, but her hunger for her husband was.... voracious, when she got her hands on him in more suitable situations. "A wicked naughty smile danced upon her lips as she sat back with her eyes all aglow as she gazed upon him. "This trip is going to take a while, however my company couldn't be anymore entertaining. I wouldn't be surprised if one of the girls wished to join us in company. " She teased.

Rallon grunted and first made sure Cynthia was well and securely leashed to the carriage, then he set up the inbetweens, padded boards that lay across the seats forming a surprisingly comfortable bedlike structure. He gathered the pillows then put his wife's legs in the larger of the two boards so she would feel less of the jolt and not be cramped by the odd position in addition to her far too tight corset. He then stretched out across his seat laying down as he watched his wife and furry daughter, who was now enjoying scrambling from side to side and greeting her parents.

"They have their own carriage. And I'm greedy. And if not for our visibility I would show you just how sweet your company is." He winked at her and grinned wickedly then howled as Cynthia suddenly leapt onto his chest, barked, then began licking his face. The two then had a short but rather rough wrestling match which he won by wrapping her along his back, her tail wrapped around one hand while the other held her head under his arm. She was smiling and panting despite being trapped. "Daddy's girl she may be but she still reminds me of you."

He released the dog and resumed his position while Cynthia walked across her bridge to check on her mother, even giving a soft whimper of concern then barking at her father. "If your mother is in pain or needs anything she will tell us. She is not a proud fool. She is a beauty and a intellect."

Cynthia sniffed then looked down at her mother then looked at her father and gave a sad yowl. "Of course you are too my love. Made in the image of your mother. Beautiful and brilliant." Cynthia whined again. "I would never lie to you. Ask your mother if you don't believe me. You are smart and beautiful."

Cynthia licked her mother's ear then lay down on the empty in between, watched her parents for about a minute then nodded off to sleep.

Rallon smirked watching this display then pointed at his wife's tummy. "Bet you ten kisses that one will be twice as bad." He grinned though, his deeply tanned skin seeming to make his impressively straight and white teeth glow. The Grangers were known for their good teeth.

Seeing her two loved ones enjoy themselves brought a comforting and relaxed smile to her lips. She was more comfortable in the carriage thanks to Rallon. Rose gave Cynthia a reassuring hug and kiss upon her muzzle. "It is as your father says, dear. You are beautiful, radiant, and as wise as ever, my dear Cynthia." When her husband pointed something out about their unborn child she could help but chuckle. "No need for a bet, he or she will be just as bad and just as spoiled, intelligent, and remarkably amazing in looks. With the best older sister that one could ever ask for."

As she spoke she stroked the soft coat of their pup as she snoozed off. A soft and relaxing sigh escaped her lips as she sampled one more sweet treat and savored the flavor by resting her head back and closing her eyes. "Please let this trip go flawlessly." She softly prayed. The possibilities were always on the edge, all because of those wretched brothers that sullied the Granger name.

Even in her husband's comforting company, that did not stop the fact that people could do evil and harm to others. While Rallon would rain hell upon those stupid enough to even so much as approach these carriages with ill intent, she still wished that it would not happen.With that thought, the carriage suddenly stopped. Her eyes opened and her senses honed. The driver yelled 'woah!' as the horses came to a sudden halt. "Rallon?" Rose quickly asked as Cynthia was instantly on her feel,alert and ready.

Quick as her reaction was, her husband was all the quicker. He had begun moving at the first slowing, and by the time the carriage stopped he was outside on the driver's seat.

Then as his wife called out he hissed her name. "Rose shh. The vanguard has halted suddenly. I am not sure why."

Fisher was riding back to the carriages with the explanation, while Rallon rested his hand on the hidden bow and arrow behind the seat.

Rose watched and listened as the hooves of Fishers horse sounded upon the dirt road in great haste. The sight of Fisher charging with his sword drawn and bloodied did nothing to ease her worries. "It seems that our venture to see Her Majesty is well known. Filthy robbers had a death wish. Moronic fools sought to ambush us to get to the main carriages.

The wicked smile on Fisher's lips and the glint in his eyes accompanied by the blithe tone of his voice said all too much. Fisher had fun just moments ago. "My Lord, would you care to have a word with these animals or shall I wrap things up and get this voyage underway?"

Whatever reason these men had for attacking,Rose had doubt that they would be foolish enough to do it again. Then again, would they be the last? Rose sat back in the carriage with an openly relieved sigh before she heard one of the girls yell out Thea's name. They young beautiful girl ran to her brother's carriage and Rose stepped out and caught her in a tight embrace. "What's wrong, my dear?" Rose asked brushing the girl's sleek tendrils aside.

"I was going to ask you that." Thea whispered as though they weren't suppose to be heard.

Rose laughed in kind with the warmest of smiles upon her lips. "Thea, my love. You've no need to worry." Rose pressed a reassuring kiss to the girl's forehead. "Now head back to the carriage with your sisters." Thea's look of hesitance was clear to read. "Cynthia." Rose called out only to be instantly greeted with a kiss to the cheek for a reply. " Cynthia will go with you and protect you, okay?"

Thea smiled and ran off with Cynthia in tow. Rose made such to watch them get into their carriage before she sat back into hers.

Rallon did not hear his wife or sister. he was busy. At fisher's invitation he had gotten down and grumbling went to speak to the would be robbers.

And was stunned to find he recognized them. "Michael Tottle you idiot!!"

The scrawny little fool before him cowered. "Rallon...its-"

Fisher thumped him. "You shall address him as My Lord."

"Thank you Fisher. Michael what the blooming hell are you doing?"

"Well Ra-My Lord....I's hungry ya see? And...well you seemed well off...thought we could manage it..."

Rallon rolled his eyes. "Give him some food and send him on his way. Michael stop robbing people or I will take you home to Agatha."

"That's no fair Rallon! We was mates once!"

Rallon scoffed. "No. I covered for you once because you married my distant cousin. Now go. Before I have you used as a pin cushion."

He returned to the carriage and started to ask where Cynthia was when she stuck her head out of the girl's carriage and barked. He nodded and blew her a kiss then returned to his seat and they quickly set out.

"Do you recall Agatha my love?" Agatha was his extremely distant cousin, and the two despised each other. Of course Rallon had adored her younger sister Winry who had died when they were all young. Still Agatha was family so Rallon had helped her and her husband (Michael was the scheming son of a scheming noblewoman who had gotten them married before their teens) escape alot of trouble before he left.

"Apparently she and Michael are still married. Poor bloke."

Rose dawned a curious smile upon her lips when her husband arrived once more and spoke of his distant cousin. She nodded in reply to his question and took a minute of interest before they continued back on their journey. By the time they arrived at Her Majesty's humble abode a welcome party fit for a king and queen themselves. It was announced that Her Majesty was awaiting their arrival in the main hall. The girls seemed elated and were in awe of their surroundings.

Arm and arm she walked at her husband's side. It had been ages since anyone had seen Rose, and even longer since Rallon had graced the halls of this palace so it was no surprised to see the servants curious as to the Lord and Lady of York and the entire Granger family comprised of beautiful young girls. A large set of ornately decorated doors were opened and a horn sounded announcing their arrival.

A luxurious red carpet paved the way to the throne where her Majesty sat in a wait with a smile upon her lips. The woman dawned in a dress that appeared big enough to house a small orphanage. Upon her feet the woman stood, disregarding regal traditions for this special person. "Rose." Only Roses smile currently rivaled that of the lovely woman that was their host. Upon reaching the base of the few stairs before the throne Rose graciously bowed.

"Rose, you insult me." Upon looking up she would see arms wide open and waiting for her. Rose laughed and made her way carefully up the stairs to exchange hugs. Her Majesty took the time to look Rose over as though the girl were a whole new person. "You are glowing...." Both women were beaming but Rose was blushing.

"Allow me to introduce my husband. It had been far too long since you have met, and his sisters." Her Majesty descended the throne and walked amongst the girls. "My, my, such beauty. Lord Granger must surely have his hands full with so many young maidens beneath one roof. " One could tell that her Majesty needed this company. Familiar company. Sir Tyreal, head of His Majesty's Royal Guard and Her Majesty personal Guard stepped forward dawn in his full armour and broadsword sheathed at his side.

"Your person belongings are being taken to your rooms, My Lord of York." The name humble bowed out of show of respect when addressing Rallon.

Rallon nodded at the man but did not speak. He turned watching the queen and gently touched his chest making a guiding gesture for Tia and Fisher who quickly got Robin well hidden in his room out of sight. Only when Fisher gave the sign that it was taken care of did Rallon speak.

"Your Grace living and dealing with them lovely angels of mine is both a blessing and curse."

He raised his wife's hand and kissed it then nodded to the girls who giggled.

He turned to the royal Guardsman and studied the man carefully. "Thank you Sir Tyreal. It has been some time."

He shook hands with the guardsman then winced as the girls began to gently remind everyone of how hungry they were and Rallon smiled leading them unerringly to the dining room where dinner awaited, while Cynthia snuggled against his leg, her eyes watching her aunts closely.

Rallon seemed to make anyone smile and laugh. "Oh he is certainly a keeper, my dear Lady of York."

Rose conversed with Her Majesty and laughter filled the air. "You must come and visit us. Come with us as we leave. I will show you your home away from home." She watched as the Queen bit her lower lip in thought and consideration of the offer.

"Let me sleep on that invitation and enjoy your company." That that said, deep pools of green looked at Rallon. "Lord Granger, I've received word time and time again of your victories in His Majesty's name. I speak for husband, as well as myself when I say thank you."

Dinner was heavenly and eventually Rose felt the need to excuse herself. "Pardon me, we..." She rest her hand over her womb,"... need a breath of fresh air fora moment." Her Majesty instructed one of the servants to escort the Lady of York to the garden where she was left in peace. They had to save Marion.

Rallon nodded at Her Majesty's words. "I serve the rightful ruler of this land as best I may. You are both most welcome."

Rallon watched his wife throughout most of the meal, as per usual, and when she rose he did as well, kissing her cheek and surreptitiously stroking her side under her arm. "Do take care my love..." His eyes were bright with his love for her, but also darkened slightly by the concern on his face as his eyes flicked toward four of the guards. They were not to be trusted, which he reminded her of by tapping her well concealed dagger.

When she reached the garden and was surely alone Robin spoke softly. "Milady....is all well?"

Her Majesty looked on with adoration as Rallon granted his beautiful wife with a kiss before she dismissed herself from the table. Her heart nearly silently burst forth from her bosom when she heard a voice come out of now where. The only sign to her surprise was hand over her heart,in a feeble attempt to still the racing organ.

Mesmerizing eyes looked up to the star covered sky and bright white moon as she spoke under her breath. "All is well. The girls and I will take rest soon and..."

"My lady?"This time she gasped,for the voice she heard came from behind her. Quickly she turned with her hands resting upon the stone edge of the balcony behind her. It was one of the guardsmen. "My lady who are you speaking to?" The man looked around suspiciously as he walked and left a two foot gap between them.

"I am so embarrassed." Her face looked sweet and almost genuinely embarrassed as she averted her gaze. "I was speaking to my beloved in-laws and my handsome brother-in-law who have come to pass." She quick with response and no hesitation. "We are fine."

"We?" The man raised a brow as he loomed in the arched way with his broad body and strong looking hands. "You speak of another person, My Lady... and yet I see no one." Her heart kicked into overdrive once more as she could tell that he was using her isolation to his advantage. The wicked man licked his greedy lips while practically raping her with his eyes.

"Yes...we. Me and...Cynthia." A wild growl sounded behind the man. The man squealed like a little child at the sight of her. Rose could not help but laugh. "Cynthia, hun come to mommy." Their fussy child did so while never taking her threatening gaze off of the man. When the arms of her mother wrapped around her she subsided a tad. "Oh no need to worry. She is Rallon and I's first child. They say she is like another set of eyes for my husband and she is certainly like him when it comes to being sweet." She pressed a kiss to her pup's head. "But she can be just as ruthless to those who threaten family."

She scratched her beloved canine behind the ears, knowing she would love it. "But he means no ill will, darling.... right?" Rose was certainly playing it sweet and yet she resembled a black widow to the man. One wrong move and she could have his life without having to lift a single pretty little finger. Rumors had certainly
spread that Lord Granger was ruthless and certainly a force to be reckoned with but even Cynthia had made a name for herself and it had made it all the way to the castle. "Now if you will excused me I need to get back to my husband." Cynthia stayed between her and the guardsman as she walked back to the dining hall to meet up with her husband as the girls filed out to be escorted to rooms.