Order & Chaos. Right & Wrong. Murder & Justice. (Greeneyed23 & Lady Bloody Ava)

[Greeneyed23]

Clan Bartok has been avenged. the wrongs of the monstrous Geza Mott have been laid by the bravery of the Last Knights of the Bartok Clan.

Commander Raiden is dead, given an honorable death to atone for his leadership of the campaign against the corrupt minister.

His men, the few survivors of the raid upon Mott's fortress, stand outside the Imperial Gardens, behind their newly promoted Commander, all of them knowing just what fate has been laid upon their ever selfless Commander.

The Lieutenant, now Commander, Cortez turns slowly. "The Bartok lands are no more. But we still embody the spirit of our Master. and our Commander. I charge each of you with that mission from now until your final breathe."

They salute as one, not moving. They may have been spared death, but they know their judgement is not yet over.

They wait in silence, the guards watching them nervously. Not even the emperor can order the military class to be unarmed. And these are all men of the 7th Rank. The highest rank in that august body. And these particular men survived a battle, a war that no one else would have survived. These few dozen are already fabled legends, loved and nearly worshiped by the public. Even the Imperial Throne has bent to the will of the people and named them heroes. Warriors of faith and honor in the cause of justice.

But whatever is said of them, one thing is so abundantly clear. They are dangerous. Warriors at a level these guards could never hope to contend with, even with all their training, they are outclassed.

And they are not alone in that knowledge. they all stand in silence for some time. Then a figure approaches.

Emperor Payman the I himself. His hood is still raised. He moves to the edge of the walkway, within ten feet of the warriors. And stops.

These two powers weigh and measure each for an age. An eternity. An instant.

Then the Emperor speaks. "The honor of the Bartok clan has been restored. Peace has been forged in our empire. Your actions have inspired the populace. It is my will that each of you be granted titles and honors to your choosing. In separate lands."

The warriors share looks. Commander Cortez speaks. "Your Imperial Majesty. I ask for the honor of serving the Bartok family. My lady has need of me."

"So she does. She will be installed in a house in our care until she weds. You may go."

One by one the warriors ask for offices throughout the empire. Not power, not fame. not wealth and privilege. But to serve with honor another house. The Emperor has made it clear. He will not allow them to remain a single force. Separate they can be isolated and killed. Just a name lost to history. together they will always be the Knights who slew his first counselor and survived.

He will not allow this. If he cannot kill them, he will neutralize them.

Soon only one remains. His fellows have asked to go to houses that are growing, rising, to have proven honorable or otherwise worthy of their abilities. Many have managed to find ways to return to their own homelands. An understandable desire.

But this one, the youngest of these few cannot ask for that. He never knew from whence he came.

He is, and has been, watching the snowfall, ignoring all else. The Emperor's glare is furious.

The warrior turns, and the guards lower their weapons, sensing a threat. And the Emperor is chilled. In the moment before Raiden was slain, his eyes held this same fire. This same untouchable fire. No matter what is done to this man, he will always be himself.

He comes forward, forcing the Emperor to look up into his face. Most of the others were of the average height, under six feet. This one is a few inches taller. Not a giant, but certainly noteworthy. And simply layered with muscle. During the year of silence this man had served as a lumberman, and had been vital in the fortress making for Geza Mott for supplying and shaping strong woods for the drawbridge, doors, and other areas. And never once had he spoken a word.

The Emperor feels sweat on the back of his neck. What was Bartok!? To command such as this!?

He shifts his robes about his person, and speaks. "What boon would you ask of your Emperor?"

The warrior studies the Emperor for some time. His sky blue-grey eyes unreadable. Then he speaks, his voice deep and quiet. "The insignia of Commander Raiden. And a post with Lord Christoph Hurt of Geth."

"Done."

The two share a long look, then the warrior turns away walking to join his fellows.

The Emperor watches him, still feeling sweat on his neck despite the deep chill and the heavy snow fall. and freezes. There are no footprints. From where the big man came to where he has gone, there are none. Before their sheer numbers had prevented the snow from collecting on the path. But as they had dwindled the snow had fallen ever thicker.

Somehow these ... men have left no trace of their passage. Are they demons?!

The Emperor shakes himself. he turns to his scribe. "You recorded each of my wishes?"

"Yes Your Majesty."

"See to it that an imperial command is written out for each for me to sign. And have the insignia given to that last man...what is is his name?"

"Morgan Your Majesty. Morgan the strong."

The Emperor nods and leaves the passageway. He summons his own captain of the guard. He gives strict orders that if any of the Last Knights ever again enter his city they are to be watched and followed at all times by at least ten good men. And twelve for this Morgan.

~

The Last Knights gather for what is likely the last time in the now cleansed tavern owned by one of their former members turned traitor. They speak little, drink even less.

Slowly one by one they stand, hug their brothers, and depart, the Imperial orders tucked into their pockets.

Soon only two remain. Morgan and the Commander. Morgan is studying the rank insignia on the table before him. The Commander is studying the Bartok sword.

Morgan takes two of the four, and lays them before Cortez. "Commander."

Then he pockets the other two and stands, saluting Cortez and turning.

Cortex reaches out and grips his hand. "Morgan. His death is not your fault."

"Nor is it yours Commander. He fought well."

"We should have used a larger mirror."

Morgan smiled. "Perhaps. But I do not think such a feat would have been possible. Gabriel did well Commander. He served with honor. Died in battle. Do not deny him that."

Cortez chuckled. "You studied too long with the Commander and Lord Bartok."

Morgan smiled again. "Such was my honor. As it has been serving with you Commander. Please offer my respects to Lady Bartok."

"I shall. Take care my friend."

Morgan nods and walks away.

~

A year has passed since these events. Lady Bartok is still a very restrained and quiet lady of the court. And a symbol. Many suitors have come and gone. She has shown favor to none. And more than a few have been helped out through her doors by the hand of Commander Cortez. The whole court tends to watch him standing guard over his Lady, so dark. so dangerous. So watchful.

Many speak of the week after she had taken up residence in the Imperial palace. Three former pets of Geza Mott attempted to fall upon and rape her in revenge. The Commander had appeared and slain them in a moment, without his Lady ever even knowing they had been present, or that blood had spilled. She did not even learn of it until the Emperor himself had sought her out and asked after her health.

Cortez had never left her side since.

And the others proved just as able. Just as lethal. Just as reliable. Each house with one of the Last Knight has gained a new level of security and prestige. raids, banditry, and other threats have all but died in each of their holdings. And the houses are all being sought for alliances and aide.

But none more than Christoph Hurt. Geth lies along the former Bartok lines, and actually now holds the former Bartok home. Including the family graveyard. Lord Hurt has ensured that Lord Basrtok, his heartbroken wife, and Commander Raiden have all been interred there. With all proper honors and respects. And has assured Lady abrtok that she will be allowed to rest there when her time comes, by written command.

Enforced by his young but devastating Commander.

When Morgan arrived the Hurt clan was nearly bankrupt, and under siege. The bandits and raiders had seized upon the loss of Raiden and the wise rule of Lord Bartok and had swarmed through his former lands, ignored by Geza Mott, and thus by the Empire. Lord Hurt had had to pay enormous bribes to rescue the home of his old friend from the ravages of the corrupt, and had never realized just how heavily Lord Bartok had relied on Raiden and his warriors.

The bandits and their kind had gathered together, seeking to turn the Bartok lands into their own criminal empire. And had broken Lord Hurt's forces by sheer numbers, and wicked trickery until he and his family, and few remainign warriors had been holed up in the Bartok home, under actual siege, unable to escape or call for help, while their tormentors drank and laughed.

Morgan had broken the siege singlehandedly. He had slithered in and slain the leadership, then left the remains to squabble over the power and prizes, while he stole all the food he could manage and snuck into the castle. He gave his new Master the Imperial Command, took command of the troops present, and organized the defense, and a number of raids that routed the besiegers entirely within a week.

In the year since he had cleared Geth entirely of bandits and raiders, and been instrumental in Lord Hurt's entrance into the agricultural, lumber, textiles, and sea trades that had been so profitable for the Bartok Clan. Lord Hurt had gone from nearly bankrupt, to now the seventh most wealthy noble in the Empire, with business still booming, and his lands expanded in due course. Lord Hurt also was a popular lord for his goodness to his people, his own high code of honor, his beautiful wife and daughter, and for one thing more.

He ensured that Lady Bartok had a large percentage of the incomes from her ancestral lands. He had tried to give her all, but taxes and tariffs prevented. but still she received her due, making her a very wealthy young woman.

So it seemed the Empire was at peace, the madness nearly brought on by and after Geza Mott faded away, the Last knights still public heroes but no longer together. All was well.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Shrouded in a velvet hood, embellished in gold lacework, the blossoming girl stood in the Court as a very eventful moment in history played before the blue-eyed brunette. At that time the young woman had been brought to the castle to learn the best attributes of noblewomen and work as a Lady in Waiting for the wife of the First Councilman, Lady Hannah. The daughter of Lord Arthur Vontrell bore witness to the havoc bought down that night, by a mere handful of men in the fortress that she temporarily called home. At the sound of the bell petite feet dashed her up the stairs of a tower that housed Lady Hannah. Her kind-hearted Lady was nowhere to be found.

Azure eyes looked out of the glass window and the reflection of flames from the labyrinth garden danced before her. Men fought and died. The signature armor of the Bartok Clan was noticeable from her viewpoint. Simultaneously did her heart swell and ache. The girl was more than a beautiful wallflower. She listened and learned any detail that she could of the situation. Not only that, but the young one got a first-hand glimpse at the cruel ways of Geza Mott. Lady Hannah had even taken a hand to the face when standing between her husband and her young Lady in Waiting.

Just the mere glimpse into the memory sent ghostly chills to dance across soft skin. The promising threats in that vile man's eyes had her worshipping Hannah for what nightmare that the young Lady Vontrell had been spared.

Young and naive, the young lass made her way closer to the heart of the battle. When all seemed to be done and victory was set, the blood-drenched bodies of the warriors that brought revenge upon Geza Mott for the Bartok Clan stood as a troupe of heroes. Swiftly did she make the symbol of the cross for a brief blessing upon these men. Their faces etched into her youthful mind.

On the day of reckoning for Commander Raiden, she stood among the crowd where he parted with his men to receive his sentence from the Emperor. The open announcement of their heroism was almost missed as she watched the back of a valiant man about to accept death until he disappeared from her sights. With Lady Hannah happily widowed, Lady Vontrell was sent home to her family's lands. Having spent over a year away from home, she is welcomed with open arms.

"Arabella Isa Vontrell, my darling!" Emerging from the carriage with a poise expected of a woman of her station: head bowed and the handmaiden that raised the girl was greeted with those signature blue eyes. With cascading smooth auburn tendrils framing that angelic face, those eyes were the highlight of the beauty that was Bella. The hairs seemed to raise on the back of her neck at an odd feeling. With a porcelain smile, she did look up to a window and noticed her elder brother looking down upon them. Miss Sophia looked at where her surrogate daughter looked and clicked her tongue before escorting the girl to her father's chambers.

"Things have changed in your absence. Your brother, Lord Lucius, has been quite... busy," the tone spoken led Bella to believe that it was not for the better, either. Butterflies swarmed her stomach when it came time to see her father. With a knock upon the door and her arrival announced it was a surprise to see her father sitting up in bed in the middle of the day. At the sound of the doors closing behind her, she sat upon the soft bed at her father's side. Both too happy to see one another to have said anything yet.

"My beautiful daughter," a sigh that sounded so relieved sounded past his dry lips as he held her hand. "How I have missed you and your mother's eyes."

Arabella laughed lightly and smile genuinely to her father though it went lax just a hair as she got a closer glimpse of her father, "What ails you, father? How long have you been like this?" Arthur shook his silver shoulder-length locks in a deterrent to her worrying.

"Merely old age," he knew that his daughter would not fall for it, but nor would he hound him about it. With a sigh of defeat, a kiss was pressed to his forehead.

"So be it. How is Lucius?" As if right on cue her brother walked himself into his father's chambers. Short hair trimmed and brushed off to the side and deep brown eyes that did not match the faux smile plastered upon his face.

"Arabella... my precious sister. You look even more beautiful than when you left. Has father told you? I'm helping manage our lands. The Vontrell Clan will climb the latter and prove it's worth to the Emperor. Right, father?"

Arthur squeezed his daughter's hand, almost as though he never wished to let her go before he spoke. "He has done rather well helping me out. I've no doubt that you two will be proud examples of the Vontrell Clan."

Lucius seemed pleased with those words and appeared like a preening peacock as he took his sister's hand to guide her out of the room. Obediently did she rise and follow his lead, "Father needs his rest, dear sister. Let us spend some quality time together." Like the Court Lady she had been, her manners were well-honed. That and Lucius was different from when she left. Not to mention, her father was the picture of health when she left. Months had passed and Lucius seemed far more invested in earning money in the Vontrell name than their father's health which seemed to get no better. Some night the man was delirious from the medicine and Lucius seemed to take those opportunities to have their father sign papers.

Ever by her father's side tending to him, or by her brother's side being a lovely side ornament as well as a sponge for information, worry sickened her. Lucius was no good for their father, but it was not her place to tell him such things. Once she had mentioned it to father and he got defensive. A month later and an incident occurred that caused Lucius to slap his sister. Upon a visit with her father, all the makeup did not hide what she wished he had not seen. Bella had bit her tongue when it had happened and even apologized for whatever she had done to make her brother angry and he was elated! The sick man that was her brother, was elated!

Arthur managed to make it out of his bedchambers today. His study was where he sought solace to go over what paperwork need be done. After reviewing a few, he noted some hiked taxes that he did not recall agreeing upon, nor signing, but there was his signature. The haggard-looking man loved to have faith in his son yet he looked up to the heavens to converse with his wife as to what he should do and what this feeling of cautiousness meant. How he missed his wife. Arabella was a blessing that he would not give up, but he still missed his beloved wife. It had only been two years, yet it felt like an eternity. "I need to do something."

 

[Greeneyed23]

Things progressed like this for the nation, and the Vontrell clan for some time.
Lord Vontrell grew more and more frail. Lucius grew stronger, and more controlling.
And Arabella was both kept close, but also at a distance. her loving father was missing things, things that she knew Lucius was hiding from him but that she had no proof of, nor any recourse.
Things did change for a short time however.
One day, some weeks after the slap, a rider approached. He was taken in to her father, then rushed back out before she could learn the purpose.
The answer came quickly enough.
Lord Hurt stepped down from his carriage not even twenty minutes later, then held out his hand for his wife and daughter. His wife was of an age with her husband, but still breathtakingly beautiful. Her husband was a almost scrawny yet still hearty and healthy man with silken white hair, and a craggy wizened face full of wisdom and kindness, and a warm smile. His wife was the picture of beauty and elegance.
And their daughter the perfect marriage of the two.
The daughter, Hala, spotted Arabella first and smiled, waving to see an old friend. They had both attended court together, shared teachers, and often played together when their father's had business.
Her mother, Yana, had been Arabella's mother's dearest friend and companion, and had visited and written Arabella many times over the years, especially after she had passed. When Yana spotted Arabella she sighed and smiled, her face aglow. Hala moved aside and offered her hand. To her very pregnant mother.
Yana waddled along beaming, and paused by Arabella, and drew her into a hug. "Hello dear. it has been so long." Her hair had been starting to silver when Arabella had seen her last, but it had regained it's golden sheen. She had been supposedly long past the age of child bearing, but clearly she had been gifted another chance. Arabella was one of few to know that Yana and Christoph had deeply wanted more children but she had remained barren after her beloved Hala. Until now.
She smiled and cupped Arabella's face. "You look so like your mother. But even more beautiful. I have need of your help my dear. This one is abandoning me."
Hala laughed and lead her mother into the sitting room, shooing her father away. As she did so, a massive man walked up to the Lord, and held out a cloth. "My Lord."
Lord Hurt nodded. "Ah yes thank you Commander. Did the gift suffer any damage?"
"None my lord. Shall i bring it up?"
"yes...ahh..Arabella my dear might I trouble you to assist my Commander please? Yana needs her wrap."
He smiled kindly and toddled off after his wife and daughter.
The massive man bowed to her. "My Lady."
Before she could respond, her father spoke up. "i know you Warrior."
Morgan did a perfect side turn and saluted her father most respectfully. 'I was present at your rescue of the Three Hills My Lord. Your bravery was most inspiring."
Arthur's chest swelled at the memory of that victory. And the compliment from one of the 7th Rank. "You are most kind. What is it that Lord Hurt needs my daughter for?"
Morgan stepped away and whistled sharply. Two of his men rode up leading a simply magnificent horse. A golden bay filly of monstrous size, but of steady eye and very calm.
She seemed actually to know Arabella as she pulled forward and sniffed at the lady. Morgan gently took her lead and turned to Arabella. "My Mistress' gift to you. She is broken and has a full set of tack as well. She is the last foal from Veraxi."
Veraxi had been one of her mother's own gifts to the Hurt Clan, to Yana especially. Deeply beloved, the broodmare had produced magnificent animals with every birthing. Arthur studied the horse in awe.
Morgan stood utterly still and quiet, waiting for Arabella to react. As did the horse, who nosed him, scratching her head against his armor. He did not so much as shift, but clearly the horse knew and trusted him. She also realized that first he was the largest man she had ever seen. And second. She had seen him before as well.
That night. That legendary night. Fending off five guards at once, while bodies mounted about him. A tornado of steel wielding death. Then again that day, that perhaps even more legendary day, when he and his brothers had faced the Emperor.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Arabella noticed the messenger making haste to her father. It brought her concern. There were a few more minutes left in her lesson and she was closer to the entrance of their home when finally released. With a handful of dress, she began making way towards her father's room when a sight outside of the nearest window caught her attention. The crests on the carriage pulling up brought a smile to her young face. Quickly she turned on foot and made it just in time to greet her beloved friend Hala. The Hunts were truly a second family to Arabella. Lord Hunt was like a second father. Hala was the sister that she had never had, and Lady Hunt was very much loved. Lady Yana comforted Bella when her mother had come to pass. She was there the day her mother passed and held an inconsolable Arabella until she fell asleep.

It had been a moment since the young Lady Vontrell smile so genuinely and it was easily noted by the servants who had watched the girl grow with the very walls of where they too called home. "Lord Hunt. Hana." The happiness in her voice was more than apparent. A polite courtesy for her guests and the young girl emerged from her shell as Lady Yana was assisted out of the carriage. To see her aglow from pregnancy was a pleasant shock. The hug was refreshing Gabby was more than happy to escort their company into their home. "You look breathtaking, Lady Yana." Her father watched the warm welcome and only linger for a second on the question as to where his son was at this moment. Before she could follow in her company's footsteps, she was asked to stay behind for a moment.

"It would be no trouble at all, My Lord." The blue-eyed girl also recognized the man looming before her. It was sweet to see her father swell with pride at the man's words. Her father asked the very question lingering on her mind. What was brought forth made the lass squeal internally. There was a smile and a little laugh as the majestic creature neared Lady Vontrell and sniffed her so casually. The girl's look of shock at his next words was as clear as day upon her face before looking back at the creature. "For me?" There was a moment of hesitance before a soft hand came to caress the face of the horse that was now hers. "She is stunning in every manner and cunning, I can tell."

Arthur stood back and watched his daughter in silence. The Hunts were there when Arthur was at his weakest point and to see his beautiful, humble, and kind daughter slowly transform into her mother made his heart warm. "I must thank Lady Yana when I get the chance, I...." Now Arthur took the moment to laugh. "Is the ever poise and ready Arabella Isa Vontrell actually speechless? This is a first. Bravo, kind sir. This is no easy feat."

"Father..." though it was voiced as a whine, she smiled while continuing to pet her precious horse. "Does she already have a name?" Bella took this opportunity to observed the retainer before her. Yes... she saw him that night. At the First Councilor's home and on the day of his Commander's final judgment. The girl caught herself staring just a tad too long and admired the horse once again.

"Hana may join you, but Lord Hunt may need his retainer. I need to have a word with the two of them. If you see your brother, inform him." Lucius saw the tail end of the greeting. If his sister got a horse what did the Hunts bring the heir of the Vontrell clan? He would have to find out. Meanwhile, Bella was curious as to what Lady Yana meant when she said the Hana was leaving her. Was she set to be wed? Was she becoming a Lady-in-waiting? The curiosity was eating away at her.

 

[Greeneyed23]

The Commander shook his head. "No My Lady. The Ladies of the House said you would choose one. Shall i take her to the stables?"

Arthur spoked. "Surely you need to rejoin Lord Hurt?"

"Yes My Lord. But he asked I see to her Ladyship's needs regarding her new horse first."

The old man smiled. Christoph. Always so protective. "Well you decide dear."

He turned back to the Commander. "Is Hala leaving the household?"

"She is My Lord. She has been accepted into the Circle of Arts. Her musical and vocal talents have been noticed by the Imperial Court and they wish to invest in her potential. It will be my honor to escort Her Ladyship to Vaxil Dahn after we return home."

"Ahhhh yes. She always had a great gift for music. Have you heard her play and sing Commander?"

"Her Ladyship was kind enough to sing a special composition on my last name day. I was deeply honored."

"Forgive me but what triggered such a specific gift?"

"Her Ladyship was kidnapped by the brigands who have been troubling our lands My Lord. They had plans to misuse her."

The sudden chill of the man was so great even the horse shied from him.

Arthur spoke softly. "Did they?"

"No My Lord."

Neither noble had any doubt what had happened. Morgan had torn those fools apart. Possibly with his bare hands.

"Thank you again then Commander. Hala is like a second daughter to me. She is most dear to my heart and house."

Morgan bowed.

The horse suddenly whinnied and lay her ears back. Then huffed and drew back as Lucius stepped into the doorway.

"It seems I have missed the party. Who is this?"

Morgan ignored him entirely, turning to tend to the horse.

"Oi! You! Soldier! I seek your name."

Arthur started to speak but Lucius brushed by toward Morgan. Lucius was not a small man. But before Morgan he looked almost a child. And still Morgan ignored him.

Lucius then violated a very old code of conduct.

He grabbed Morgan's arm and yanked at him. Or tried to. For his size and the strength he claimed to be so mighty, he was unable to even budge the massive warrior.

But he did not grasp the depth of that.

Now he broke the code again. And struck Morgan. Not a real punch or hit, but still a mark of disrespect as his hand struck the larger man's arm.

The sound fell into a silence miles deep. Even the horse went still now, and shied back, behind Morgan away from her owner.

Arthur, no fool, drew his daughter back instinctively.

Morgan slowly turned his head around, and down to look at her brother. And she saw the same look she had seen that night.

Lucius sneered. "I asked your name soldier."

Morgan raised his hand and only now did Arabella and Arthur notice that the driver and escort had all her gripped their weapons. They released them and backed up.

Then he spoke. "I am Morgan. Commander of the 7th Rank."

Lucius continued to sneer. "How impressive. Been in many battles?"

"3,379. My Lord."

Lucius paled at that. That was the message of the military class. They did nothing else. They fought. To fight so often and still be alive was a mark of ability to any. To do so and be amongst the 7th rank marked him clearly. This was a man of incredible ability.

"How...how can you have fought in so many?"

"I had the honor of serving the Bartock clan from my youth My Lord. Then being named to Lord Hurt's service. My Masters were and are men of honor, who protect their lands and people fervently. Like your noble father."

The so silent, 'unlike you', rang throughout the courtyard. Lucius loved to show off his strength and his weapons, but had never even witnessed an anything more than a drunken bar brawl.

Now he faced a professional who had been fighting since his childhood. And still stood.

"A most...impressive record. Is it the record?"

"No. My Commander Raiden still holds that honor. He drew his sword against more than five foes 11,235 times before his death."

And there was yet another marker of the 7th rank. Their skills were such that anything less than five foes was not to be counted. The legends and myths of the 7th rank and the ranks below were painstakingly accounted for in the Imperial records. To bring honor and glory to the class that protected the Empire was to honor the Empire.

Lucius licked his lips. "Who is next?"

"General Narverius. He had won 10,000 battles we are certain of before he passed away. A great man."

"My Father knew him."

"Indeed he did My Lord. Called him brother and friend."

Lucius tried to find the insult there. But Morgan just looked at him silently, his eyes entirely unreadable.

Arthur spoke now. "Arabella take the Commander and your horse to the stables please. These old bones grow chilly in this snow."

Morgan bowed to each man, then offered his arm to Arabella.

It was the simple courtesy of a warrior escorting a lady.

He lead her across the courtyard, toward the stables, followed the carriage and escort who stabled their own horses, and his. He lead her horse into what was clearly the best stall and fastened her within, then stepped out.

The horse immediately came and put her nose over the gate to nuzzle Arabella again, quite taken with her Mistress.

Morgan stepped up beside her and spoke. "My Lady shall I escort you back to the house?"

He was holding several wraps, clearly for his lady, as directed, but like the respectful warrior he was, he was tending to her, his current duty first.

His eyes were the same color as ever, but unlike with her brother the hard chill had left them. He did not eye her like other men either. Nor leer at her like Geza Motte had.

He simply watched her, waiting for a sign or order.

The horse nickered and lipped her ear. Morgan smiled. It was a nice smile. "May I make a suggestion My Lady? Regarding her name?"

"I would name her after one of the tricksters. She is a good horse. But playful. She has already mastered stealing apples from pockets."

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Idly did the young woman caress the gorgeous mare's mane as the trio stood around on this lovely day talking. Many of her concerns were brought up by her father. It did bring a smile to Bella's soft pink lips to hear that her friend's talent was recognized by the Imperial Court. Arabella always praised her dear friend for that melodious voice of hers. The tale that led to hearing that her best friend was abducted made her heart sink.

To hear that Hana came back unharmed was refreshing, but it sent a chill to ghost through her entire being to imagine what price her captors had paid at the hands of this skilled warrior. "Yes, we owe you a great deal of gratitude for saving Hana," there was no questioning the sincerity of her words. Such a peaceful moment was disturbed by none other than Lucius himself. Even animals could sense what a person was capable of within a matter of moments. Lady Vontrell took a moment to ease her precious horse while Lucius flaunted his arrogance before their company.

Bella was absolutely appalled at how big of an idiot her brother was proving to be. To raise a hand against such an imposing man! Her father shielding her startled her for a moment. The look in his eyes made it no better. That chill from earlier paled in comparison to the sinking feeling that her brother had to be feeling. Only when Morgan held up his robust hand, did she realize that they were close to witness one hell of a confrontation.

The slip of a compliment to their father, along with the silent verbal slap to the face for her brother, caused a smile to tug at the corner of her lips. It was fun, to say the least, to see her power-hungry brother put in his place in such a polite manner. Ever one to heed her father's words, she placed a kiss upon the dear man's cheek before taking up the Commander's offered arm. Getting all of the horses settled was easy, but there was no ignoring Bella's adorable conversation with the horse of her dreams. "Did you see that, my precious? Did you see that pretentious brother of mine get put in his place? Yes, my dear... we will not be apart for long, this I assure you." She cooed to the horse with great delight and laughter when she was nuzzled over the gate.

In all honesty, were it not for The Hunt family, she would have been content to stay with her horse. "Aww... so we are a mischievous one, are we? Perhaps Ate or Eris? Like those tricksters?" She did ask. Both were lovely names. The first being the Goddess of Mischief herself and the second being the Goddess of chaos and strife. "I will feed you plenty of apples, my lovely lady and I will be back with a name when we meet again." She gifted the horse a kiss and another pat before taking the Commander's arm yet again.

"Let us not keep your Lord and Lady waiting. I must express my gratitude and also... thank you." It was a random thing, but there was a reason behind it. "I saw you that night at Geza Mott's fortified home. I've seen a glimpse of what you are capable of." The walk back to the walls of her home seemed rather lengthy as she spoke. Why was she so relaxed around this man? Why was the veil of her personality slightly lifted at this particular time? "I thank you for not lopping off my brother's head, though he could afford to lose that tongue of his. Poor father..." Her free hand cupped at her cheek at the memory of how her brother had slapped her.

Hopefully, Lucius curbed his arrogance and did not have plans to talk to the Hunts during their visit. It made her very agitated if he disrespected Lady Yana in any manner. "I wish that my father had a Commander like you." The love for her father was adorable and the lack of approval with the way her brother behaved was clear at this moment."

Lucius was not happy. How dare a common soldier, though far from common was this man, disrespect him in front of his own father! As the future head of the household, he had to go talk to Lord and Lady Hunt and question the manners of their Commander in his absence. That and he was a little jealous of the horse given to his sister. His gift had to be far more impressive.

 

[Greeneyed23]

He wanted to.

But Christoph had never liked Lucius. And had never made it a secret. He had known the boy to be cruel and capricious and having refused to replace the fine Commander that had served the Vontrell's honorably for many years had not impressed.

Lucius had chosen to take command of the family arms himself.

He did entered the sitting room but Christoph spoke before he could begin. "Arthur my dear friend I must insist on tea! My darlings have traveled far in this weather and i fear a chill."

The two men chattered so freely that Lucius had no place to cut in.

And when he tried Christoph cast a look of such coldness even Lucius could not think of a retort.

After some minutes he was about to attempt again when the door opened.

Morgan had nodded, listening silently to Arabella as they had walked. Now he spoke. "You are most kind My Lady. As my Mistresses spoke. Were I to have met your mother I should have counted it an honor even over that of meeting the Emporer. To meet her daughter is even a greater honor. I see her strength and beauty in you."

He bowed her into a seat beside his younger Mistress, Lady Hurt needing a seat all to herself. He deftly unfolded the wraps and helped her to cover herself. She sighed. "Thank you Commander. You are a treasure."

"It is my pleasure and privilege My Lady. My Lord? Shall i fetch the gifts for Lord Arthur and Lord Lucius?"

"Yes please Commander thank you."

Morgan bowed and walked out.

Hala gripped Arabella's hand excitedly. "Father says you heard! Can you believe it! The imperial arts!"

Yana beamed at her daughter. Everyone was ignoring Lucius, his family busy being good host and hostess as was required and expected by all Imperial nobility.

Arabella saw her brother about to speak again, his face very red, when the door opened yet again and Morgan entered with a large chest in his arms, followed by two others bearing another chest.

Morgan set his down and the whole room heard the floors creak in complaint. Morgan showed no sign of strain and moved to his master. "My Lord?"

Christoph started to stand but Morgan spoke quickly. "The healer said to rest My Lord. Your knee is not yet at full strength."

"Blast you and your attentive nature Morgan. Yes you are right."

He drew out two keys.

Morgan bowed and went to the second chest first. He opened it and drew out a magnificent suit of armor. In Lucius preferred colors, with the family sigil in place of rank insignia. Morgan carefully cradled it and held it out to Lucius.

Christoph spoke rather coldly. "Made by Tiberius of the Capitol." Tiberius was the most sought after armor maker in the nation. Not the best. But his armor was always very fine and fancy. And looked good at dinner parties. And cost far more than horse.

Usually.

Lucius sputtered, then thanked the Hurts before going to change, without asking leave of his father.

Morgan lay out a two more sets, one summer one winter, as well. Then dismissed the others and their chest.

They returned as he opened the first.

Within were books. Several dozen. Books marked with the Vontrell family crest.

Arabella descended from a long line of brilliant minds, and they had lay their brilliance out for the empire in a host of volumes on every possible subject. But the originals had been thought lost.

These were all brand new.

Arthur stared in awe, then turned to his old friend. Christoph beamed. "We found a cache of many tomes and volumes and the Commander convinced me to hire the printing guild to reproduce the more ancient and vital works. I was stunned to find the full catalogue of your family's works among them. They are already the talk of the Capitol, and...which reprinting are we on Commander?"

"The twelfth my lord. And the key to the bank account with your percentage my lord. My master felt it would be unjust to profit from your family without paying a fair rate. We settled on a quarter to the printer and distributors, ten percent for our expenses, and the rest for your family. I do apologize but I could not take less. These books have been so popular we have had had to triple escorts and patrols along their routes. The roads alone were falling apart."

Arthur took the key, and the information on the account. Then spoke softly.

"Under whose name specifically?"

"Arabella's."

For a long moment the moment to discuss Lucius came. then passed.

Arthur asked Morgan to sit and help him go through the books and Arabella saw that her father was nearly in tears in delight. These books had been a source of great family pride but even the Vontrell library had only had parts of some of them. Not this host.

Morgan sat and handed books to the delighted old man as the nobles talked.

And stayed between them and the door.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Even after her brother had arrived, Bella was having a ball talking to Hana and Lady Yana. Thanks were given in abundance and excitement expressed for her best friend's new voyage. "Of course I heard! I am so excited for you, Hana and no need to worry. I'm more than happy to spend time with you Lady Yana especially when the little one arrives. I must admit that I am beside myself with excitement." It was hard to tell why, given her age. Was it because she never had a younger sibling or maternal instincts just going off?

The agitation growing on Lucius' face was easily noted by his attentive sister. Everyone seemed to be busy enjoying themselves and her brother played no part in this scenario. Perhaps her brother had a tad bit of sense. To lash out at a moment such as this would only sear the vision already laid out about him into the minds of all present. None more so that their father, or so she assumed. It was a little bit of a surprise to hear that a gift was brought for Lucius, and at the same time, it was not. Like the best of Imperial nobility, there were traditions and manners that most upheld and the Hurts were a kind family that still abided by those rules.

To watch the Commander remind Lord Hurt of his need and the reaction between the men did make Arabella laugh. It was such a refreshing feeling, this laughter. The second that her brother's gift was revealed, the laughter nearly crept up, but she managed to swallow it and remain poised. It was purely decorative for Lucius. A papercut set him into a tizzy and he would sacrifice his whole family if it meant saving his own skin. At least, that is the feeling that she had with him lately. Surely her brother would do no harm to his Father and sister. Would he?

The gift for her father, she was curious about. This entire time her hand remained comfortingly in Lady Yana's as she looked on. The look upon Lord Vontrell's face said volumes as to how elated he was upon hearing just what it was. Arthur was stunned for a moment. This day was joyful enough when his dear friend and family stopped by for a visit, but this... this made his heart grow twice in size and tears of joy threatened to reveal themselves but were blinked back. A look of surprise broke that casually happy look upon Bella's angelic face.

"Me?" Little would she know just how valuable this would prove for her down the road. It had been so long since she'd seen her father glow with the happiness of a young lad. A kiss was gifted to the two ladies and she removed herself from her seat to thank Lord Hurt up close before joining the ladies once more. Lucius was all but forgotten until a distinct sound grew louder and louder as it encroached to the door. It had to be Lucius, no doubt in his armor and eager to show it off. Hopefully, he would not pester Morgan as he had earlier. The pompous Vontrell heir was giving the servants a hard time and accusing them of being stupid for having not opened the door for him any sooner.

Lucius would emerge adorned in his gift, with an air of arrogance the likes of which she had never seen since Geza Mott. Such a thought caused the girl to shiver for a single moment with ghostly chills.

"You look quite.... resplendent, dear brother." Gallant and dashing were not words that she would use for a man who would only dawn armor for decorative reasons, so her choice of words seemed well placed. Any compliment was music to the boy's ears, after all.

 

[Greeneyed23]

"Thank you dear sister." He sneered at Morgan. "Why do you not wear armor Commander?"

"I am not in battle my lord."

Lucius blinked. "So?"

"Armor is heavy. And often loud. I would not disrupt the peace of Lord Vontrell's halls with the sounds of war."

"Why not? Is war not glorious!?"

"War is death. The only glory comes in a good one."

Lucius blinked at that. His sister had summed him up. He feared death. But he was too arrogant to let even that dispel his need to show off.

"Well....your armor is certainly not as resplendent as this beautiful set. Yes?"

"My armor is nothing like that My Lord."

Lucius preened and beamed. And wandered off to go show his friends. Already he was lying, to the servants, about how he had bought it and gotten it delivered by Lord Hurt.

Arthur and the nobles did not hear this. But Morgan did as he closed the door.

His face remained impassive.

Free of Lucius the conversation resumed it's happy tone.

Soon though Lady Hurt needed to utilize the privy.

But she snarled. "No. The Commander will escort me. You two catch up."

Morgan helped his lady gently, and escorted her out of the room.

Arthur blinked. "What is that about?"

"Oh she says he is the child's godfather. So she wants him nearby. And in fairness he prevented several rather uncouth fellows from peaking on her during another such visit. Since then she has come rather to depend on him."

"He is an interesting fellow. And very clever."

"Second only to my wife and daughter in wisdom and swiftness of mind."

Arthur nodded. "You trust him?"

The answer seemed obvious, but Christoph paused. And both fathers looked to their daughters.

Then away before the look could be noticed.

Christoph nodded. "I would trust him with my life even if my continued breathe were to threaten his own."

Arthur nodded and talks went elsewhere. Then the door opened and Morgan carried a sleeping Lady Hurt inside. "Forgive me Lord Vontrell. My Lady grew weary but I was unsure as to where she might be most comfortable."

"Oh dear is she alright?"

"Yes my lord. Breathing just fine. I had one of your maids listen for the baby's heartbeat. Her name was Lily. Very kind. All is well. The doctors said Her Ladyship would have random waves of energy."

He held the woman as easily as he might a doll. She looked so tiny in his arms, thickly covered by her wrap.

Arthur nodded. "Very well. She can use the guest bedroom off the hall until time to eat. Lilly!"

The maid entered. She was only 15, and looked more like 5 beside Morgan. "Yes My Lord?"

"Is the fire in the guest bedroom warm enough?"

"I was just checking my lord. And putting the bedwarmer in the bed...."

"Well done. Help Morgan tend to Lady Hurt. Then you are to remain at her side for any of her needs. Keep a close eye on her."

The girl curtsied and lead Morgan out.

He returned a few minutes later. "My Lord do you have need of me? I should check on the men."

Christoph smiled and gestured.

Morgan turned to Hala. "My Lady?"

She smiled and shook her head. "No. Thank you Commander."

He bowed to them and stepped out.

Arthur watched him. Then turned. "Bella my love?"

He gently took her hand as she approached. "Would you fetch me a writing board and some sealing wax?"

The parchment, ink, and quills were within the boards, lap podiums with lids.

It was the work of a moment for her to collect what he asked for.
When she delivered it he drew her down for a kiss. "Thank you my love."

He gave her hand a squeeze then shooed her back to her friend.

And wrote out an order. Signed and dated it. And had Christoph do the same. Then sealed it and gave it to his friend. "If i should pass before Arabella is seen to safety. Please my friend."

Christoph nodded and put the letter into a pocket.

Arthur put the writing things away then aside.

Hala pestered Arabella for details about everything. Except the two legendary events her friend had witnessed.

Hala had no interest in the gory details. But she wanted to know everything Bella had been up to. And would not rest until she did.

The talk was so pleasant and friendly that neither pair noticed as it grew dark until Morgan reentered. "My Lord Vontrell your steward is looking for you. He says that dinner is ready to be served, but he requires a word with you in private."

Arthur sighed. And groaned and nearly fell as he got up.
Bella noticed that Morgan had shot toward her father to give aid in an instant.

But Arthur caught himself. "I am alright Commander. I am old. "

"It is only the cold my lord. You are still strong."

Arthur smiled at the complimentary joke. And walked out. Christoph stood and stepped out to check on his bride.

Morgan stood in place, saying nothing.

Hala turned to him. "Morgan tell Bella here how pretty the new dresses are."

"Which dresses My Lady?"

"The imperial dresses and the Formal gowns from Holmes and Dulles."

"Personally I prefer the second My Lady. They are the only dress makers I have seen who created fashions nearly as lovely as your Ladyship and your mother."

Hala giggled. "See! He knows good product. And what of the Imperial dresses?"

"Far too expensive for simple stitching My Lady. And hardly suitable for true ladies of quality."

Hala giggled again, then moved to rise. Morgan came forward and offered a hand to both women helping them stand.

Hala smiled at him. "Thank you Morgan."

He bowed.

Halal knew the way to the dining room and started to lead Bella that direction, but paused to go tend to her mother who was leaning rather hard on her father.

"No worries dear. I am just still so very sleepy. If your little sister were not so hungry i might sleep the night away."

Morgan shut the sitting room door behind Bella and himself, and stood there, awaiting a need or orders.

Bella could hear her father sounding very upset in the serving hall.

Her friends did not notice, so she was free to go check on him.

And learn that once again her brother had been making trouble. "He drank all of the 17 Plumere?!"

"Yes My Lord. I did remind him that you had intended it for Lady Arabella's celebration several times but..."

"And how many of my best birds?"

"All of them My Lord. Fortunately i was able to get our hunters to collect some more and the cooks did some marvelous work but...there is much and more missing from the larder My Lord. And he..."

"Go on out with it."

"He has been striking the staff my lord. Including the serving girls and pages. Bathilda threatened to leave if he hits her children again."

Bathilda had been cooking for the Vontrells since she herself was a little girl and that had been when Arthur himself was just entering his teens.

He groaned and covered his face with his hands. "I will speak with her. And my son."

"My apologies My Lord. On such a happy day-"

"No. I needed to know."

The steward left her father, almost bumping into her. He gulped and bowed. "My lady."

Then scurried past.

And she heard her father. "Damn and blast that boy!"

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Was it hard to ask that her brother not make a fool of himself in front of their company? What clouded his judgment so? Though Morgan seemed to be making a habit of bringing Arabella to the cusp of laughing. Of course, Morgan's armor was not resplendent. It actually served a useful purpose that was not merely for looks. Such thoughts brought her to the image of the man with blood splattered armor with sweat glistening on their brows. Her brother would never be one of those men.

It was adorable to watch a very pregnant Lady Hurt tell the men to remain seated and catch up. Watching a mighty Morgan escort her off was a sigh of relief and gave her a moment to catch up with Hala. Both girls looked cheerful and full of smiles as they caught up. One would never know but looks alone, that they had not seen each other in ages. The looks from their fathers were not noticed at all, but the sight of the Commander holding a slumbering Lady Hurt certainly stole all attention. Another sigh of relief sounded when Morgan reassured all in the room that the beautiful and glowing Lady was merely exhausted and needed a bed.

As Lily peeked into the room at her Lord's request, Bella smiled and waved at the young girl who openly looked up to the Lady f the household and the kindness she showed to those of other stations. Those inquiring eyes watched at the large figure left, only to return a short time later. Her interest in Morgan had her miss her father's question the first time around, but it reverberated in her mind and she offered a smile and a polite nod.

"Yes, Father," hands held onto her dress as she stood and stood before her beloved father. That smile was the mirror image of her mothers when he called her his love. "Of course, father." It was but a moment before she walked back over to her father and gracefully laid out the items that he had requested. The kiss made her blush profusely, but the smile stayed put. "I love you, father." Then the young one was shooed off and Hala laughed lightly at the cute moment between father and daughter.

Time seemed to get away from both parties as the evening reared its ugly head. "Time to eat." Bella held hands with Hala, but Bella gasped as her Father nearly lost his footing. "Father!" Her heart nearly burst forth from her chest out of fear. The humor eased the fear ever so slightly, but she watched until her father disappeared from her sight. Hala must have noticed the worry on her dear friend's face when she told Morgan to tell her of the dresses. All Bella could do was smile. In the back of her head, she would always worry about her father. Her father and brother were all she had left and if she did not worry about him, then who would.

Naturally, she accepted the outstretched hand of the warrior without thought. "Thank you, Commander." Politely she spoke and automatically followed her friend. At this point, she seemed to be on autopilot. That was until she heard her father's voice and it sounded none too pleased. Just outside of the door frame to the serving hall, she stood. Looking as though she were waiting for the rest of her company when, in truth, she was listening to Lord Vontrell.

The more she heard, the more she felt as though her heart were a stone sinking deeper and deeper in the coldest ocean. Lucius had outdone himself. That arrogant fool! What good would come of doing such things, especially knowing how their father felt about it. As the Stewart offered her a nod she walked up to her father and gifted him a hug with no words uttered. He was not one hundred percent in his health and Lucius made it no better.

"Father enjoy the company and tend to him another time, please..." The worry on her face was clear as day. "The food smells divine. Please...sit." Petite feet walked over to her father's high back chair and pulled it out for him. "Tell us a story of when you and Lord Hurt were younger."

 

[Greeneyed23]

Arthur shook his head. He took his daughter's hand and kissed it, cradling it softly with both of his.

"You bring such joy to my old heart my treasure."

He leaned in and kissed her forehead.

Then sat.

Morgan had followed well back, and now drew out the seat for her, and expertly pushed it in for her as well.

Then he did the same for his Master, Mistress, and their daughter.

Once done he started for the door when Arthur called. "Commander?"

Morgan went to attention and turned instantly. "My Lord?"

"Join us."

"My Lord I am not worthy to sit amongst such nobility."

"I was not asking Commander."

Morgan bowed and moved to the empty chair to Arthur's right, across from Arabella.

He bowed to them both, and sat as ordered.

Christoph chuckled. "Tis the only way to make him do some things."

Morgan refused the proffered wine. "Just water thank you. My Lord I am not properly attired to sit-"

"Commander you will stay at my table and tell us charming stories. Of Lord Hurt and perhaps of my young self. And perhaps of the Commander Raiden."

Morgan blinked. "My Lord I would be happy to stand and share such stories. I need not-"

Arthur raised an eyebrow. Morgan bowed again. "My apologies My Lord."

Christoph chuckled. "I had to order him to sit and enjoy the food to get him to stop trying to get out of it."

The table laughed.

Morgan said nothing as the drinks were served.

But spoke into the silence as the servants, and nobles waited for Lucius to arrive. "Forgive me My Lord. But should I begin now?"

To be late was very disrespectful. And thus very disgraceful to Lord Arthur. Even with old friends it shamed the old man. Who was growing very red in the face.

Until Morgan offered.

"...yes Commander. At your leave."

Morgan nodded and told then of a story of the young lords Hurt, Vontrell, and Bartok out on a hunt.

Arthur gasped but said nothing.

As Morgan laid out a dramatic tale of adventure and excitement. That ended in a glorious catch! "Or at least that is what they told their fathers when they came back at dawn the day after the hunt smelling of spirits and cheap perfume."

The table froze. Then burst into laughter, especially Hala and Yana.

Christoph shook his first at Morgan, while Arthur turned red again this time from laughing.

Morgan smiled at the reaction.

Finally Arthur wiped his eyes. "You cheeky sod. I had forgotten that story! We were what? 15?"

Christoph nodded.

Morgan shrugged. "The Commander heard it from his predecessor. We all loved that story. A good reminder that our master was still human. Plus it was a great story. I always love the part about Lord Bartok scaring off a bear with just his bare teeth and growls."

Both lords burst into more laughter. "That's right! We said he did that!"

They were almost giggling by the time they settled down. "Oh yes. That's wonderful. Commander...oh."

The Steward rushed to his master and whispered in his ear.

Arthur clenched his jaw but nodded, thanking and dismissing the man. "It seems Lucius is feeling unwell. And will not be attending. Dinner will be served shortly. Commander?"

Morgan deftly told another story of Christoph getting caught sneaking out of his bride to be's quarters the morning of their wedding.

Both Hurt's blushed but laughed. Especially at his reasoning. "I merely want her to be sure she is ready for the wedding night."

Yana giggled. "I remember everyone staring at me so hard. And i must have heard that i would deliver a child in nine months a thousand times. They were right."

The men laughed again as Hala blushed. "Mother!"

Yana ignored her daughter sipping her wine.

Morgan clearly had many stories. And told them well.

As dinner was served and eaten he kept them all well entertained with humor and adventures. Including some very funny tales of Yana and Bella's mother when they themselves were maidens.

Yana laughed so hard about when they had somehow accidentally attached themselves to the entourage of the then emporer without realizing it she had tears pouring down her cheeks. "By the Gods I still have no idea how we got away with it! I spilled wine on him fives times!" She gestured to Bella. "And your mother set him on fire! Twice!"

Morgan saluted her with his water. "I haven't a clue My Lady but the Imperial household still tells the stories."

Yana grinned. "Im a legend!"

"Indeed My Lady."

Christoph leaned over and whispered something that earned him a long kiss.

Morgan turned to Bella. "My Lady, my compliments on your kitchen. The food is marvelous."

Hala nodded. "It is wonderful Bella."

The other two were busy giving each other doe eyes so Arthur spoke. "I am impressed as well dear."

Morgan leaned forward slightly. "My Lady would it be forward for me to ask to speak to your kitchen staff? I would like their opinion on some matters in their expertise."

Arthur said nothing. As hostess the kitchen was her's, even if she had had little to do with it today. It simply was that way.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

It was cute to watch the valiant and loyal Morgan try to remain his somewhat aloof and stalwart self while his Lord and Master ordered him to join them at the table. This was something far from common. Seldom is a Master this friendly with their retainer. The stories were hilarious. The young girl could only imagine her father in his youth and the antics that he and the other Lords got into. Lucius' absence was quite welcomed though it was noted by someone and for a legitimate reason. It was deemed disrespectful for a hosting family to not be present at a meal with company with a valid reason. Knowing that the young heir of Vontrell was strutting around in his decorative armor and neglecting his guests.

"Awww..." Bella moaned at the romantic tale of Lord and Lady Hurt on the day of their wedding. Laughter rang through the air as Hana seemed to be a tad embarrassed and the tales moved on to Lady Vontrell and Lady Hurt.

"When Olivia and Yana were together you could always expect some kind of mischief." One could tell that Arthur was fond of this trait when it came to his wife. Though poised and ideal in the public eye, Arthur and Olivia were the best of friends since they were young. "You know, Olivia and I almost never happened. Her father thought that she would fetch far more worth with the Ivory clan. Thankfully their heir ran off with a servant girl. Olivia revealed to me that she used her kind and convincing words to coerce him into not going through with the wedding."

This was a lovely evening and the compliment from Morgan was a bit of a surprise. Lady Vontrell knew that she did not have much to do with the night's arrangements, but she did take it upon herself to take care of their home.
"Thank you," the blush upon her cheeks was profuse and made Hala laugh. "By all means, Commander, please do."

Lucius was celebrating his gift from the Hurts with lies, drinks, and ladies. This, he felt, won favor with other male nobles. As the future heir who would not think it to be in this young man's good graces. Fooled by lies and wooed with women and drinks, how could they know how much of a serpent Lucius was? The night was savored on one end, while the favor towards Lady Vontrell was openly noted from the drunken company of Lucius.

Clearly accustomed to being the center of attention before his sister returned, it rubbed the egotistic noble the wrong way. Here he was, the next heir to the prestigious Vontrell family and his sister was the gentle and lovely face that seemed to bring smiles to all without even fucking trying. A girl could not be the head of household so why spoil the lamb that would be sold off to create a powerful bond to move the Vontrell family up the line.

"Arabella is nothing but a pretty pawn in the scheme of things and will serve her purpose at my word."

"Will you be staying the night or heading home? I know that Lady Hurt may be more comfortable in her own home, but I missed you all dearly," Bella was honest with this [articular company, "I am sorry to appear selfish in my request. Next time, father and I will visit you at your home. Please, father? With Hala leaving, I must help prep for the wee one to come." The excitement was very much there.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Morgan spoke up first. "My lord the snows are already forming. It would be hazardous."

Christoph nodded. "May we intrude and ask for beds old friend?"

"It is not intrusion. You will take my quarters."

"Arthur-"

He raised a hand. "They are the warmest and i will not risk the little one."

The two elder Hurts departed, and after a hug and kiss for them both young Lady Hurt followed suit.
Arthur retired to the guest bedroom, which was very warm itself.

Morgan had gone about his duties silently, reappearing frequently as the nobles had made arrangements after Christoph decided to stay.

He stepped up beside Arabella. "Milady perhaps you would like to see to your horse before the snows truly begin? Your stableman asks if you would be willing."

Morgan had a heavy fur coat over his arm, waiting for her answer. The clouds were heavy with fresh snow.

~

Despite his thick layers of bullshit, Lucius did have supporters. And supposed friends.

And many opportunists. "A horse you say...perhaps we should go see it?"

"Why?"

"What if its a better horse than your armor as a gift?"

Lucius scowled. And agreed.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

It was an affectionate display of nobles parting. A kiss was gifted to her father for a warm peaceful slumber before he too went to relax for the night. Morgan's voice caught her attention, along with his looming figure at her side. The mention of her horse did make her smile.

"I would be more than happy to see her again. Such a gorgeous creature. Thank you for the company, Commander." The fur coat was slipped on and without another word she made her way towards the stables. "I think that tonight was just what Father needed. Friends, family, and something to take his mind off of his aging body and..." Lucius' name was replaced with a sigh. "Thank you, Commander. The stories were fun. Certainly, something to tell the young ones in the future."

When the brisk cold wind teased at the long and loose tendrils of her locks, a shiver coursed through her entire being. It left as quickly as it came. Her father was right to talk the Hurts into staying the night from the looks of the clouds up above. Laughter sounded from not too far off in the distance, but they made it to the stables first.

In the shelter of the stable with the light of a fire nearby, the sight of that gorgeous horse made her face light up. "She is beautiful and she knows it." There was a bit of laughter near the end as she was greeted with a nuzzle. The gate was opened and the horse in all its glory was seen. "We must go for a ride tomorrow."

For some reason, the sight of his sister in this particular moment pissed him off. They were right. The horse was of supreme quality. Maybe it was his father's saved the fueled his thoughts, but the smile had to be wiped off of her face. Even better, in his mind, the damned Commander could do nothing. He was not Arabella's retainer, therefore Lucius was convinced that a man of such order could not raise a hand to the next male Vontrell heir.

"Quite stunning indeed, dear sister." The sound of her brother's voice did startle her for but a moment. He looked a tad disheveled and it was more than apparent that he was under the influence of a few too many drinks. His two noble companions eyed the young woman like a piece of meat waiting to be savored at their leisure.

"Your armor dims her beauty with its grandeur, dear brother...." This compliment only fanned the flames of his current dislike of his sister.

"Say what you really think sister. You are favored by the Hunts. A family blinded by their own little world. It is a shame that Father favors them as well." The idea of striking her and seeing her upon the ground, around his noble stature made his fingers tingle with delight. At this point, the Commander barely registered through his seething blindness. The horse was uneasy and reared as her brother neared with a mighty lough cry.

"You frighten her, Lucius, stop it!" The armored fool laughed as did his buddies.
"You dare speak to your elder brother in such a manner?" One male prodded as Bella tried to console the upset creature.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Morgan gripped the horse's bridle and drew her away, pushing her into the rear of the stall and blocking her with a swing wall.

They were still ignoring him, but even the horse caught on and went still.

The human had startled her with his strength, and the suddeness had made her bend to his will.
And once behind him and a wall she settled, nickering unhappily but no longer making trouble.

"I think she needs a lesson Lucius."

"I think the ungrateful bitch needs to be taught her place."

Lucius smiled at the idea. "I agree."

And raised his hand to strike her, then brought it down.

She knew well the pain of that hand. And in preparing she had to wait for it to land. And wait.
And wait some more.

Then she her a whimper.

From Lucius.

A bigger hand gripped his wrist, holding it away from Arabella. Morgan had actually raised her brother off the ground somewhat, so he was trying to lean and take the pressure of his arm.

His fellows stared in shock at this nobody who dared to touch a noble.

Lucius, still whimpering, whined. "Get him!"

They rushed in.

Morgan kicked the first in the chest with such force he flew the length of the stall, slammed into the gate and flipped back over it to land in the freshly mucked saw shavings and straw.

The second froze upon seeing this.

Morgan spoke softly. "You will apologize for your words to this lady."

"Fuck you peasant trash!"

And he went for his blade.

Morgan slapped the sword hilt down, then back handed the fool, before gripping his throat with his hand. The fool gagged, gasped, trying to break the grip as Morgan raised him, then hurled him out to join the other.

Lucius watched this in horrified shock.

Then went for his own blade.

Morgan gripped his hand on the hilt and Lucius whimpered again.

"You have dishonored yourself already My Lord. Do not seek to also kill yourself."

"Trash! Unhand me! I am a noble!"

"You are nothing. You strike at women and feign manhood by disrespecting your own father. You are unworthy of my blade. Let it go."

"My father shall hear of this!"

"Indeed he shall. I shall tell him that you have presumed to strike his daughter. And clearly this was not the first time. It would be my honor to punish you for this vile act of cowardice."

Lucius whimpered. And kicked Morgan in the leg.
Morgan did not so much as flinch.

Lucius whimpered again. "Please...don't hurt me."

Morgan sniffed and released him. But also took his sword. He snapped it across his knee with a sharp movement then threw the pieces at Lucius who yelped catching them.

"Only men carry blades."

Lucius hissed. "This is not over peasant!"

"You best pray it is nobleman. I did not kill you because you are the son of a good man, a great woman, and brother to this good lady. Harm her again and know that my mercy ended tonight."

Lucius cursed. But fled.

Morgan turned to Arabella. "Are you alright My Lady?"

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Lucius was a wicked man. Were it not for her father's happiness she would put her brother in his place. It would do him no good to be upset at his only heir. When the strike did not come, she looked up to find Morgan gripping at her brother's wrist. Visibly the girl was shocked. It was even more shocking to see the two noble accomplices try to get at Morgan with his hand still busy with Lucius.

Lady Vontrell's heart raced beneath her bosom. Why she was surprised, she was not entirely sure. She had seen the man in all his glory, but perhaps it was because it was for her that the Commander took action. Perhaps it was an ill-timed moment but it warmed her heart to hear Morgan speak of her parents in such a manner, especially in her mother's honor. She watched as Lucius wandered off and only looked at Morgan in the eyes when he spoke to her.

"Yes, Morgan the Strong, I am fine. Thanks to you, of course. I do not even know where to begin to thank you," a genuine sigh of relief sounded past soft lips. "He will be the death of Father. It will break his heart to see what Lucius has become." In her little world, her father was completely ignorant of Lucius' deeply rooted and wicked ways, but that was far from the case. "You are a brave mischief-maker as well." A glance at the horse gifted to her made her smile.

"How about we name you Eris? You may well be a handful for others, but I believe we will be just fine. Now... see you tomorrow Eris. Morgan shall we head back to the castle, I think it is time that I call it a night. I wish to be awake early enough to eat with Hala and Lord and Lady Hurt and... you, of course." That smile was there as she looked into the icy darkness of the night.

"Her watchdog won't always be there to save her. How dare she make a mockery of me!" A swift slap sounded in the ornate walls of his chambers. The servant tending to his wrist was the only one there in the line of fire. She gasped and fell to the floor as Lucius observed his wrapped wrist and began getting undressed. Any other time he would have taken the girl and vented in bed, but he was not in the mood for that.

"Begone." A simple order that the servant girl swiftly obeyed before leaving to tell her head Lady about with tears in her eyes.

Bella was not going to have a peaceful night herself. Dreams of Morgan and Lucius. At one point she awoke panting and sweating with the fading embers of the fire beneath her mantle proving far more frightful than comforting. It would be simple to leave and head to the kingdom for the season of Court, but her father needed her or rather, she was afraid to lose her father and knew that their father's health was not Lucius' priority as it was hers.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Morgan did not sleep.

He stood watch outside Lucius' room all night.

Lucius never did complain to his father, but first thing Morgan was reporting to the old man.

Who went ashen.

"Commander...thank you...and I am sorry. I am ashamed. I-"

"My lord the actions of a fool, even one who shares your name are not your fault. You have maintained your good name and honor. But you should lay your family's future in your daughter. Not...him."

Arthur looked up at the younger man. "You give wise counsel...help an old man up...Morgan I have already asked that your Master tend to my daughter after my death. I ask a favor. As a father."

"It would be my honor to serve you in any regard My Lord."

Arthur could not help a slight jolt of surprise when Morgan helped him rise. Morgan did not jerk or squeeze, or otherwise exhibit his strength, but it was still there. Hard as steel.

Arthur patted his shoulder. "Should the worst happen and Lucius does take my place as Lord of these lands I ask that you rescue my daughter from his clutches. Do not kill him. You have survived the death of one noble already. I am not certain the Imperial Court will let you survive another. But do not let him break her. And if you can see to the lives of my loyal servants."

Morgan sniffed. "I do not know how such foulness came from such good as yourself and your wife My Lord. But i swear that unless I must I will not harm him."

Arthur nodded. "I too wonder from where his darkness seeps. I kept him from court. And Geza Mott. And i tried so hard to instill compassion and goodness into him..."

"Clearly all that is good came out in your daughter my lord. And perhaps it is the sins of the grandfather or elder coming out in the son?" It was an old belief. Many of the older families had dark histories. And the Vontrells were not immune to that.

Arthur nodded. "Perhaps...Morgan..."

"My Lord?"

"Protect my daughter."

"Until my last breath. And beyond if I can help it."

Arthur turned to the taller man. He studied him for a long while. "Why us Morgan? Why the Hurts?"

"Lord Bartok considered you his friends. He was a good and honorable man. He never caused me to sully my blade. Nor has Lord Hurt. I believe you would not either."

Arthur nodded. "Thank you Morgan..."

Morgan turned to go. Arthur called out. "Wait..."

"My Lord?"

"How would you give her the name?"

"Denounce Lucius and renounce his rights as heir. Name Lady Arabella as the rightful heir and holder to all that is Vontrell. The court would make it so it went to her husband, but it would be her's."

Arthur nodded. "Thank you Morgan."

Morgan nodded and stepped out.

Arthus looked out onto the courtyard of his beloved home, layered with snow. "A wise and clever man..."

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

It felt useless trying to regain what sleep was lost. It was an early start with a long soak and time taken to dress for the day. Long wavy auburn tendrils were transformed into a style that most curly-haired women in this age aspired to wear. Perfect ringlets piled on her head with a few soft spirals about her face. Chestnuts tresses framed that angelic face with breathtaking ocean blues for eyes.

Men would describe the young noblewoman as a piece of candy begging to be unwrapped. A soft flowing dress that held onto her shoulders and covered the soft skin of her arms down to the wrist. The fabric of the bluish-green dress clung to the soft curves of her body, down to her waist and gently flowed from there. Beneath the dress, she dawned her riding boots. Easily hidden beneath the layers of her skirt, she had plans to take Eris for a ride.

It was easy to see how Lucius thought to dangle the beauty and grace of his sister over the heads of his skin hungry nobleman friends. She was a pawn in his scheme of things. With their father not fairing his best, it would no doubt be in his hands to see that Arabella was married off. Before last night he may have actually felt bad with placing his sister into the hands of a rich man who would use her as nothing more than arm candy in public and a cock sleeve behind doors.

There was no avoiding his father and the Hurts were most likely leaving today. Best to make a good impression, no matter how fake it was and no matter how much it made him want to vomit.

Bella finally left her room, ready to head to the dining hall in hopes to join her guests for breakfast. A young servant girl sporting cuts to her face with her head hanging low holding a tray with a bottle of mead seemed to be heading in the direction of her brother's room.

"Silvia." The girl was startled and turned to see the Lady calling to her. There was no hiding the look of grief in those eyes. The girl's eyes spoke clearly to her soul.

"Yes, my Lady?" Carefully the young girl curtsied as Bella closed the distance between them.

"I will take that to Lucius. You tend to your wound and tell Bathilda that I ordered you to do so." A soft hand raised and Silvia flinched. I broke Bella's heart to see such a reaction. She brushed a strand of hair from the young one's face and shooed her off with only the bottle in hand. The passion in those blue eyes rivaled the force of a tidal wave crashing on the shores. He could strike her all he wanted, she would not be broken, but to abuse your power over the weak! It sickened her.

His door was opened without notice and the bottle place upon a nearby table.

"Good morning, brother. You ordered a bottle? I thought to bring it to you myself and remind you... do not bite that hand that feeds you Lucius. So many hands play a part in your fancy life. I would be careful if I were you." Without another word she turned on heels and headed out the door. The door closed just in time to catch the bottle that smashed against it.

It was a declaration of war.

Bella made her way to the dining hall. The passion more than apparent in the way she moved and the air about her. "Good morning father." A smile danced upon those lips before she kissed her father's cheek. "Good morning Lady and Lord Hurt. Hala." With a smile, she sat beside her best friend.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Morgan watched from the shadows of a hall.

And followed Silvia.

"Peace little one. Let me see."

Bathilda arched a brow as he touched the girl but he ignored her. He studied the cuts for a long moment. "There is some splinters in here. Silvia bite that spoon. Bathilda i need your grippers."

She obeyed, startled by his forcefulness. Then even more startled as he pulled three metal slivers out of the girls face.

She wept and clutched Bathilda's hands.

Morgan nodded. "I know Silvia. I know. Hold on. Bite hard. I am going to clean the wounds."

He poured a fluid from his pouch into the wounds. The whole kitchen could hear it sizzle.
Silvia lurched and Bathilda tried to stop it as the girl cried, but Morgan held both woman at bay as the fluid bubbled for several seconds. First black, then a sickly green, then yellow, then red, then finally white.

He repeated the process, silvia flinching again, and drenched in sweat, then he washed her face tenderly.

She leaned against his chest panting, the spoon bent despite being metal and the handle coated in rubber.

He smiled seeing the rubber. He gently pushed Silvia back and Bathilda gasped. The red streaks that had been forming were gone, as was the swelling.

"Commander what was that?"

"An infection burner. Our greatest threats are never the blades but the infections after."

Silvia whimpered in his hand, looking even more like the child she was.

Bathilda stood. "She will sleep today. Should i pack it?"

"Oh yes. And put cleansing solution on it every six hours. That would have killed her."

Silvia stirred and slurred. "Thank you." As Bathilda took her into her arms.

"Go rest little one."

Silvia nodded and was taken out.

Morgan tidied up, washing his hands thoroughly, then joined the nobles.

He said nothing at all, though they all noticed how late he was. But still he had beat Lucius who was fussing with his armor and hair.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Hala and Bella were having a delightful conversation. About how Bella was going to be the surrogate big sister to the newborn Hurt baby. Food had not been yet brought out and the moment Morgan arrived, his presence was well noted. "Good morning, Commander," Bella uttered with a smile upon soft pink lips.

Lucius would damn the armor merely for being so complicated had it not looked so good and regal. He stepped over the broken shards of the bottle that he had thrown in his sister's direction. The servant waited until Lord Lucius was headed to the dining hall before entering his room to clean it up.

Bella was a moment away from having food served before her brother's arrival when he finally showed his face. "Good morning all. Pardon my late arrival, but I was quite meticulous about my armor." With a wave of Bella's hand, the food was brought to the table. Lucius tried to make small talk with Lord Hurt about money-making skills and even jested about how hard it was to find good help before snapping his fingers to have a servant fill his drink.

"Lucius, must you be so obnoxious that you no longer bother to use words to ask for what you desire?" These words made Hala arch her brow when her friend spoke. What made it worse was that it was spoken with no eye contact and in such a nonchalant manner as she placed fruit upon her plate.

Arthur noticed his daughter's behavior and a bit shocked. He thought his wife was throwing her voice from above. The man coughed for a second before speaking, "Arabella, my dear, did you get around to naming your horse?" A change of topic seemed to be needed.

"Yes Father," she smiled and looked at her father as she spoke, "I named her Eris. Morgan told me that she was quite the mischievous one and loves to steal apples." Thos azure eyes looked to Lord and Lady Hurt. "I can not thank you enough for her. She is gorgeous."

Suddenly Lucius chimed in as he stabbed a sausage a the end of his fork, "When do you plan on heading home, if I may ask. The weather seems quite uncertain. It may be best to leave while the sky is clear. Not that I did not thoroughly enjoy your company."

Bella wanted to laugh. This boy barely spent anytime with their guest and here he was trying to shoo them out of their home.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Christoph turned to Morgan who spoke.
"We should able to depart before noon. The men have attached the snow chains to the wheels, and the snow shoes to the horses. We shall have to move slowly but we have also enclosed the carriage and brought along the covered oven to put within. The men are making sure the carriage is well warmed as we speak My Lord."

Christoph nodded. "Which route?"

"That will depend on the weather my Lord. But i intend to utilize the valley road. The road is too far from the edges to get snowed under, the trees offer shelter and leverage if need be, and it is much easier to scout."

Lucius snorted. "The mountain road is quicker."

Morgan did not respond.

Arthur, wanting to prevent trouble nodded. "It is much quicker commander."

"It has been snowing along that route for two weeks My Lord."

"Ahhh."

Morgan nodded. It would be cold, icy, often blocked, and on a precarious edge the entire way. And Morgan had precious cargo to protect.

Lucius sniffed. "Seems nothing but an excuse for easy riding to me."

Lady Hurt spoke before anyone else could. "Usually the valley road is only easier for the carriage. It nearly always has more bandits. Meaning more work for the Commander and his men."

Morgan nodded again. "I would rather fight when I know you and yours are on level ground My Lady."

"I agree. Thank you Commander. An excellent choice."

Lucius sneered, shown up again.

But he wasn't done.

"So the vaunted 7th rank hmm? How do you attain such grandeur Commander? Is by the number of throats you have sliced?"

Morgan said nothing.

"The number of shacks you have burned?"

Silence.

"The number of women you have ravaged?"

Everyone there knew to attain the 7th rank a warrior had to have distinguished himself with skill and ability in numerous seperate battles, and displayed strict adherence to the code of honor. Which actually prohibited the acts Lucius was implying.

Lucius swirled his drink, smirking. "The number of children you have crushed beneath your boots?"

Morgan remained silent.

"I hear Commander Raiden was such a man. Given to dark passions in his cups. A man known for his many betrayals of the code."

Continued silence.

Lucius looked at Morgan, expecting to see the large man angry. Or something.

Morgan was not even looking him. Instead he was looking out the window.

Lucius snarled. "Peasant! I am speaking to you! You will answer me! I-"

"It is certainly not for striking women. My Lord."

That sentence struck Lucius like a blow.

He started to rise. "How dare-"

"Lucius enough!" Arthur struck the table, over his shock at his son's irrational behavior.

"Father I-"

"I said enough. You will speak no more at my table. You have insulted my guests and overstepped your authority. Go!"

Lucius started to speak, his eyes darting around the room.

Until they landed on Morgan's.

Now the Commander was looking at him.

And his sword was bared.

His wrist gave a shudder, remembering the warrior's strength. He felt weak in the knees and elsewhere, then he stalked out of the room.

Once he had the mood relaxed.

And Morgan sheathed his blade silently.

Only Arabella had seen him draw it. The others had been watching Lucius. Who had seemingly gone mad.

Had he proven a threat, or in revolt against his father Morgan could have easily slain him.

Arthur sighed. "I do not have enough word to apologize for his behavior my friends. Commander I beg your forgiveness. I am ashamed."

"Not at all My Lord."

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Bella was saddened each and every time that she heard her brother speak. The girl was also ashamed to call him family. It did not bother her much but she could not help but think of how her father felt about the behavior of his only son. Just how inflated was that ego to have Lucius deal open insults to a 7th rank warrior in front of his master?

The blue-eyed lady could not stand to look at him but instead marveled at how Morgan gave not the slightest hint of care as to the words spewing from her brother's lips. The Commander's retort was a verbal slap to the face and even she could feel the sting of his words. Bella highly doubts that the Hurts knew of the latest trend of Lucius strengthening his hand by way of hitting his sister. Then again, she could be wrong.

Watching the swift decision to draw his sword as everyone watched the bumbling armored idiot at the other end of the table made her heart skip a vital beat. Morgan had a duty and was prepared to fulfill it here and now should Lucius make the wrong move.

Bella lent a hand to her father as he apologized for his son's inexcusable behavior.

"Father, the way he is now, is not your fault. We both grew up happy and loved. His demons are his own and there is nothing that you can do, nor did you do anything wrong. Though I too must apologize. Such a hostile environment is not good for the baby, nor Lady Hurt."

No doubt this was not going to be the end of things. Arthur thought hard last night about send his daughter to spend an extended time with the Hurts. The man knew that his daughter possessed her mother's stuborness and would politely, though sternly refuse on his behalf. A nagging feeling tugged at the man. A sense of foreboding lingered in his mind. Through his eyes one could tell that his mind was elsewhere.

 

[Greeneyed23]

The Hurts moved to their friends. "Lucius has his troubles. But we don't blame you for his reactions."

Hala and Yana hugged Bella.

And looked into her eyes.

And then looked at Christoph.

He nodded. "I was going to ask that Arabella join us. But she will not go."

"Old friend I-"

"Arthur look at her. She is like her mother. she will not abandon you. You could force it but I would not like your chances of success."

"You could order Morgan to make her go!"

Morgan stepped forward. "Should you order it, it will be done my Lords. But I would not be able to place my hands on Her Ladyship. Such an act is against the code."

Christoph chuckled. "And do you really anything less would make her go?"

Arthur looked up at Morgan, then over at his daughter. His shoulders slumped. But he tried once more.

To protect her. "What if i ordered you to carry her out?"

Morgan considered. "My Lord my respect for you is boundless. And remains so. I know you but seek to protect your daughter. But just as fiercely as you love her, she loves you back even more. I would not be willing to forge such a foe in an ultimately unsuccessful act. She would never allow me a moment of rest in her need to return to you."

Arthur nodded, watching Bella with sad eyes. "And you...if I order you to go? You would defy me?"

His old eyes held two desires. To send her to safety. And to keep her beloved presence near at hand.

She was the light of his life. She and her mother had always been the best parts of him.

Yana and Hala hugged and kissed her. "You take care of this old man."

And with Morgan they walked out of the room.

Christoph spoke softly. "I know old friend. I truly do. But with such a defender, I cannot worry for you."

He stepped up beside Bella and kissed her forehead. "You have their stubbornness, his bravery and madness, and her fiery compassion. You have chosen a hard road my dear. But the right one. You see to him. And if you ever have need of my house, we are yours."

He left father and daughter alone to talk.

Arthur shook his head so sadly. "You should go child. Leave me to rot. I am old and of no more use to you."

~

Some time later Morgan had his nobles, and their two interior guards, specially trained women of the military class who knew the arts of survival as well as close combat and protocol, within the carriage.

They also had deep medical training and could, and did, help Lady Hurt in her condition.

They had big their formal goodbyes to their friends.

Arthur was studying the long clawed attached to the wheels. They looked horrifying and clearly worked well. The horse's spiked shoes also gave them traction, and their blankets as well as thick winter fur would serve well.

The ladies had warned Bella to watch herself. To stay near her father. And to help him defeat Lucius' plans. Else her family legacy would be ruined.

Christoph had told her to ride on, or send a raven at a moment's notice.

He had even had ensured she be given a winter saddle, and snow shoes for her horse and herself just in case.

And Morgan had lingered.

He had feigned losing something to take a moment alone with her after her talk with her father.

"My Lady I regret I cannot do more for you. I would give all I am to keep you from harm. But your life is your own and the caged bird never sings so beautifully. So instead i offer this."

He held out a long dagger. "A simple and small enough weapon to hide about your person. Have a care with it. But keep it close."

He knelt before her. "And should you have need of me, a single word will send me flying with all my forces, or alone should you wish it. My blades are yours now and always My Lady."

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

The Lady Vontrell stood at her friend's side as it was brought up that the idea to invite her to leave with the Hurts did cross their minds. It was touching to know that these people that she had grown to consider family, knew her so well. A light smile sprouted on her lips when she was compared to her mother. No way would she leave her father's side.

Morgan had amazing hindsight. Bella would use some ridiculous creativity to make it back to her father's side. When he finally spoke to her, she smiled the smile that was identical to her mother's.

"I would defy you for all the right reasons, Father," Olivia Vontrell was shining through her daughter through beauty and wisdom. Arabella was her mother's daughter through and through with a beauty unique to her. Hugs and kisses were exchanged with the Hurt ladies and precious words gifted to her from Lord Hurt himself. "Thank you, Lord Hurt, you are a second family to me and I would turn to no one else." She watched as the room was emptied, leaving father and daughter alone.

She looked at the man that was her father as though he had two heads when he spoke. The soft fingers of her hands held his large and rough hand in her own as she looked him in the eyes with a look of confusion.

"You are not a piece of driftwood, Father. You are a living human being. You and mother raised me with love and compassion. Such love and compassion never spoil and I will never leave your side as long as you breathe." A loving kiss was pressed to his cheeks.

Not long after they were seeing the Hurts off. There was an entire household to tend to and she did not trust Lucius to take care of it. From the doorway of their home she watched as her father in the distance saying his final farewells for the moment. The sight of Morgan coming this way piqued her interest. It was quite a surprise to be handed the dagger. It was not an ornate piece, but one that would surely save her skin.

Her mesmerizing eyes looked from the dagger to the might man upon his knee. "I am more grateful than words can express to you and the Hurts. Keep them safe, and let us pray that I need not call for you under those circumstances, but rather something nice, like the Hurt family growing by ten tiny finger and ten tiny toes." Despite that, she knew that there may come a time where she needed him.

There was a deep sigh that gave away that there was was a lot to be handled and the air of danger lingered in the air. "Thank you, Morgan. Until next time." The laughter of her father and Lord Hurt rang out and made her smile.
__

Lucious looked from his high perch. The roof top of their home housed a small garden and a shaded ornate place to sit. From here he felt like a king looking down on his peasants. His father would never learn and Arabella was only good for marrying off and bringing more wealth and fame to the family name. It was time to speak to some people. Bella had to be tended to and their father was soft. She had to be married off.

Tonight he would speak with his father. He could not ignore the man. Perhaps he could make him see the vision that he had, that would put the Vontrell name on Royal lips. There were plenty of wealthy friends looking for his sister's hand. The girl was of good stock, even Lucius could not deny that. She was also a rare beauty. Serene blue eyes and a cascading halo of auburn tendrils to frame that young face, make her a prize for any nobleman waiting to wear her on his arm and between his legs.

Even Lucius was tempted, now an again, to put his sister in her place and fuck her silly until she would be begging for him and as compliant as ever. It was a sinful thought that arose, every now and again, but the end result of his plans were key. The Vontrells would be the most powerful family, next to the King, and he would be the head of it.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Morgan stood and stepped away, looking up with his ice cold eyes at Lucius, assuring the boy he was away of him.

With the formalities handled, Morgan did not have to feign subservience any longer.

He touched his cheek, pointing at his eye, then pointed at Lucius.

Then he rode out.

Lucius watched. And hated the big man. He ruined everything!

~

Lucius tried to speak to his father that night, but once the Hurts left, Arthur took Bella and they spent the rest of the day tending to the house and household.

Repairs were orders, some even begun, promotions made, and plans were drawn up.

And Arthur leaned on his daughter for all this. She had been taught and trained to manage and run a house and household with all the skill she could muster.

Mathematics, economics, logistics, and more were all well within her grasp.

And she learned how badly her brother had been ignoring the vital minuitea of running the actual house. And how he had also been dipping into the coffers.

She had seen the evidence, and guessed at much before, but now her father gave her full control of the family ledgers and records.

The butler and others had filed their reports and receipts dutifully, but the data did not match up.

Whole sections of the wine cellar were claimed to be full by the inventory, but the butler and her own eyes verified they were empty.

Nearly 100,000 Imperial sovereigns were missing from the treasury, though the records again claimed there was an overage of 250,000.

The records had also been locked away for some time, without Arthur's access. Supposedly they had been in his office.

But the handwriting was of course Lucius'.

When Lucius learned she had been given not only access but control of the family funds he was furious. He came bursting into the office while she was going through things and roared. "I will not be dictated to by some woman!"