Son of the Shadows RK Style

Previously in Chapter Nine:

“If you aren’t mad why should I?” Bran comments frankly. “What we have said is in jest and I can’t say I didn’t enjoy myself. In the presence of my men such words shouldn’t be spoken however in private I do not mind. Of course if you do not feel comfortable with such an arrangement I will honor that and we can continue to hate each other openly in public.”

Shaking my head I reply, “No, I prefer this sort of relationship to the one prior.”

“Good,” Bran states with male pride. “However I have a reputation to uphold in front of my men so I will not be lenient on your sharp tongue. I suggest you hold your thoughts until we are in private if you want to avoid a major confrontation.”

“I understand.”

“Good,” Bran comments assertively. “Now off to the tent before more rumors start about us.”

Silently we make our way towards the tent though it would seem that nothing has changed in our attitude since the evening prior I can’t help but smile internally at this unexpected turn of events. Like Snake said earlier, ‘Nothing is ever predictable surrounding the Chief,’ and for the first time I can’t be more excited at the prospect. Perhaps Misao was right in wishing for adventure. Opening myself up to this experience suddenly seems like the most exciting thing that could have happened to me. I only hope that my time spent among Bran and his men will live up to my new expectations.

Chapter Ten:

“You were speaking with the Chief for quite some time,” Dog simply states with interest. “What were you talking about?”
Looking up from my laundry I reply with a smirk, “You’d like to know wouldn’t you?”

Distracted from the cloth he is currently laundering he frowns, “Why don’t you ever answer my questions directly?”

Laughing gaily I retort, “What fun would I be if I answered so quickly besides who can take a man who does laundry seriously?”

“If it weren’t for this man nothing would ever be clean including the Chief’s clothes he suddenly wished to be washed,” Dog remarks with a sigh. “What did you say that made him suddenly cleanly?”

Giggling I reply, “And I greatly appreciate the work you have done so far. More of the men should be joining you in the laundry. I can’t believe that you do all of this on your own!”

“Usually the men alternate assisting me however because this was not originally scheduled everyone else is either busy or unwilling,” Dog states with a goofy grin.

“Yet you aren’t upset?” I inquire perplexedly.

“Should I be?” Dog asks in confusion.

“Most would,” I reply calmly back.

After giving my words some thought Dog states rationally, “As I see it I have nothing to complain over. We all have tasks assigned around the camp. The fact that others are willing to help me is more than I can ask being that they are nearly just as busy as I. At least this job isn’t as physically taxing as some of the others.”

“Why can’t everyone do their own choirs?” I inquire in puzzlement.

“I’d trust anybody in the camp to complete anything that demands physical endurance however most of these men know nothing in the way of housework. I can’t blame them entirely though. If I hadn’t been forced to care for myself for so long I’d probably be just the same.”

“I still don’t think it entirely right,” I reply with a sigh. “Why can’t Bran do his own laundry? Does he not know how?”

“He does,” Dog states with a grin, “I just don’t trust him to do so properly. Besides, the Chief is at an important meeting with a perspective client right now.”

In shock I gasp, “You’ve chosen to do his laundry?”

“You’ve seen his hygiene habits,” Dog chuckles loudly. “His idea of clean is far from any decent person’s standards. Washing his clothes is my way of introducing some sort of hygiene into his lifestyle.”

“Has it worked?” I ask in awe.

“No, but I’m still somewhat hopeful.”

With a devious laugh I comment, “You should know that such a subtle plan would have little effect on Bran. The guy is far too thick headed. Perhaps a new strategy is required.”

Putting his laundry aside he gently places my hands in his. In shock I stare at him only to be frozen in place by his intense stare. Something about his expression has me slightly concerned. Why would he suddenly become so serious?

“I know that I’m not the most desirable man however I do care for you. I promise that I’ll protect you as long as you are in need of me. I don’t know much about women or their habits however I promise to do my best to be a good husband to you, which is if you wish to have me.”

My eyes widen with the utter shock of such a proposition. Never could I have imagined that Dog would ask for my hand. As much as I admire and enjoy the man’s company it would never work.

“I wasn’t expecting that you would accept however I wished to at least give you the option if you somehow happened to be interested,” Dog states with the slightest of frowns.

“I’m sorry Dog, but I don’t have such feelings for you. You are a wonderful man and I’m sure that you will one day find a woman who could reciprocate your feelings far better than I ever could. I’m sorry if I have hurt you in any way,” I reply while placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“You have not hurt me,” Dog states with a tender smile. “I appreciate your honesty and like I stated I didn’t expect much. I thought it worth a try though.”

“You proposed to me on a whim?” I retort with mock anger.

With a smile Dog replies, “I do enjoy your company and would love to have you as a wife but I figured that if you wished to stay with us this might be a good way in which to do so without the Chief threatening you. You’re still on shaky ground where the Chief is concerned even if your relationship has improved over the past day.”

In understanding I broadly grin at Dog. It is thoughtful of him to wish me a place among the camp however I wish nothing more than to return to my family after this whole affair is over. If I were to wed Dog I’d forever be forced to remain in the camp. I don’t think I could ever face myself if I weren’t about to care for my mother during her final hours or at least say my goodbyes properly.

“Is something the matter?” Dog asks in concern as he begins tending to the laundry once more.

Realizing that I too have a pile of clothing to attend to I pick up a pair of breeches before answering, “I am fine. I was just thinking over whether I’ll ever be allowed to return to my village.”

With a nod of the head he calmly states, “The Chief is a man of his word. If he agreed to let you go he will.”

“I don’t know,” I reply sadly. “How can I be certain that he will let me go? I’m a liability to him.”

“That may be true but I don’t think you would give away our identities. If you did the Chief would have fled quickly enough that any search party you formed would find no trace of us. The Chief isn’t a fool or without any resources.”

“I don’t think he is however who is to say that something won’t happen within the next few days,” I comment somberly.

Looking up from the laundry Dog states, “Nothing in our lives is certain. We run from camp to camp and rarely do we visit a place twice. Nothing is ever constant however the Chief will keep to his word even if it doesn’t go exactly as planned. Why are you suddenly concerned?”

Focusing my attention toward the laundry in my hand I sigh, “I don’t know. I guess I’m just being paranoid.”

Dog says nothing more as he begins to focus his whole attention on his laundry. Internally I begin to sigh. I hope that my fears are nothing more than paranoia. I hope the Chief does not run into any trouble before I have a chance to leave.

***Later***

The men have been busy all day with the disappearance of Bran and Gull so in hopes of relieving the work load I decided that I’d tend to Jin alone. So here I am by myself in the tent sipping on my soup while Jin sleeps fitfully in his cot. Though his health has improved he is nowhere close to full recovery. I can only hope that either he makes a remarkable recovery in the next few days or I can convince Bran that Jin isn’t a helpless case.

With a sigh I pick up my now empty bowl and begin to rinse it off with the tub full of water I collected earlier in the day. Luckily I had the common sense to bring in two barrels otherwise I’d have to collect more. The last thing I want is to be without water in the case that Jin has need of it. With the rate he goes through water I’ll most definitely need the extra barrel I have in possession; I might even need more for later in the evening. If that is the case I only hope that Bran and Gull come back before then. Though I trust the men in the camp I do not feel comfortable walking through the woods alone at night.

After placing the bowl back on the table I make my way towards Jin. Pulling a clean clothe from my pocket I slowly wipe Jin’s brow. Noticing a slight fever I begin to cool him down with a damp cloth. His body slowly starts to relax as the cool cloth takes its effect.

As he falls into a more comfortable slumber I rise once more and search the room for anything to occupy myself. If today continues much at the same pace I think I’m going to die of boredom. Normally I’d have no problem occupying myself however I have read every book the men could provide me multiple times through. One can only read a book so many times before it becomes monotonous.

For the first time in my life I’ve come close to wishing for one of my patients to be more difficult. It figures that the one day that I have no company to keep would be the day Jin decides to sleep. If I didn’t know better I’d think the Tuatha De Danann have chosen to punish me for all the times I’ve complained over not having enough time to myself. The more I think about it the more possible such an occurrence might be. The Tuatha De Danann has made proof in the past that they have a personal relationship with the members of my family. If we could be made a part of this prophesy who is to say we aren’t a part of their amusement as well? I wouldn’t put anything past them.

Sighing for the millionth time today I begin to clean the fireplace. It’s not like it needs to be cleaned however I have nothing else to do. I’ve already cleaned the table three times, washed all my medical instruments thoroughly at least twice and cleaned all the pots and pans. I’d go out and ask if anyone needs assistance if not for the fact that someone ought to be watching Jin at all times. Not only that but I doubt any of the men would accept my assistance. I need a good distraction. At this point I wouldn’t even fight Bran’s company. At least then I might be distracted by his insufferable ego. A decent yell wouldn’t hurt at all.

Shaking my head in disappointment I utter aloud, “I’m so bored that I’m entertaining thoughts of Bran. I must have lost my mind.”

“It’s nice to know that I’ve made such a strong impression on the lady,” Bran states cockily from the entrance of the tent. “Perhaps it is my infinite charm that has won you over, or perhaps my stunning intellect.”

Turning towards Bran in shock I angrily retort, “It’s more at your dizzying lack of such things that have me pondering.”

“I highly doubt your words,” Bran states with a proud grin marring his face.

Composing myself I state with a glare, “You obviously lack in intelligence if you’d believe otherwise.”

“Judging by the blush on your face earlier at being overheard I’d think it only common sense to believe you are lying.”

Focusing my attention back towards the fireplace I fiercely inquire, “What would you know?”

“Far more than you would give me credit.”

“And what would that be?” I ask seemingly uninterested. This of course is not true. I want to know his answer however I’m too proud to let him know such things.

Calmly he replies, “For one, you stated that you were bored so I do not believe for one minute that you are occupied by your cleaning. Judging from the place I think you won’t be set back in your choirs having given me a little of your time.”

Turning towards him I give Bran an angry humph. The man is completely insufferable!

“Now, as I was saying, you stated you were entertaining thoughts of me but I know that they aren’t for the reasons you stated so I must inquire, what exactly was it that you were thinking? It must have been good since you tried to hide it from me.”

“Why should I tell you anything?” I retort in annoyance. “You’re not my keeper.”

“For the time being I am,” Bran states with a satisfied grin.

Smiling at the man maliciously I reply, “Not for much longer. I owe you no answers.”

“Perhaps longer than both of us intended,” Bran states in exasperation. “And here I was trying to be nice. The least you can do is answer a couple of questions for me. I was hoping that you’d have something interesting to say for once.”

“What do you mean by it perhaps being longer than we expected?” I inquire in wide eyed shock.

“Yet again you choose the least interesting part of my statement to address,” Bran states with a sigh. “Some people don’t appreciate subtle insults being thrown at them.”

“It wasn’t subtle in the slightest,” I state in irritation. “Now stop avoiding the subject and explain yourself.”

Giving me a stern look Bran coldly states, “Our location will soon be detected by an enemy troupe if we remain here. We have to leave tonight if we have any hope of clearing our tracks and locating another residence in time.”

“The deal was that I’d be given five days,” I angrily shout. “I still have two more days.”

“You do, however we have to leave,” Bran replies in exasperation.

Giving him an angry glare I comment, “But Jin can’t be moved. He’ll surely die if he is.”

“I have little choice in the matter. I am not going to risk the lives of many merely for the good of one individual.”

“What if you left us here? I could continue healing him and you and your men will be safe.”

“That is out of the question,” Bran states in anger. “If the men find you in this camp they will either kill or harm you. Jin could not protect you from anyone especially an army of trained soldiers.”

“So we’re being forced to travel with you?” I ask fearfully.

“It’s not like I’m going against my word entirely. I’ll let you go as soon as it’s safe however I cannot predict when that will be.”

“And you just expected that I’d be willing to travel with you for an unspecified period of time with little questions asked?” I inquire infuriately.

“I’m not some homeless beggar that has nothing better to do than follow dangerous men. I have a family at home that is more than likely worried about me.”

“You probably should have thought about that before you got involved with us in the first place.”

“If you do not remember I was kidnapped by your men,” I retort angrily. “I had no choice in the matter.”

“You might have been kidnapped however you choose to agree to my terms,” Bran states with a glare. “You weren’t forced into anything.”

“You would have killed Jin if I didn’t stay,” I reply in irritation. “I had little choice.”

“But you did have a choice,” Bran states while turning his back towards me. “If you wish to blame anyone you need only look towards yourself. Get Jin and your things packed and ready. We will be leaving as soon as the sun fully sets.”

***Later***

The trip that night was long and hard not only for the men and me but especially so for Jin. All the movement reopened the tender skin of his arm. Every couple hours we would have to stop to re-bandage his arm, despite the efforts made on Dog’s part to keep Jin as stable as possible on the back of their horse.

As for myself I was not lucky enough to ride alone. Bran stocked only enough horses for each of his men so I am now being forced to ride with him. Of course Bran insisted that I ride with him and left no room for debate. I’d much rather ride with Snake or Gull but naturally fate isn’t so kind.

Currently we have ridden for an entire day with little rest. We have short, seldom breaks for meals being that Bran fears that we should not make camp until we are sure that we are out of harm’s way. I am sore, tired and fearful over Jin’s health however I will not complain. Bran has already made it clear that he sees me as nothing more than a weak female and I’d rather not feed into such an image.

Bran has been overly cautious the entire trip, and has chosen to stay far away from the main path. I do not blame him for taking such actions however I’d wish that some of the paths were a little more stable underfoot. Such is the case of the mountain path we are currently traveling. The path is extremely narrow and looks about ready to collapse at any given moment.

“It’s alright,” Bran whispers assuredly in my ear. “We’ve traveled this path many times. The ground is far more stable than it seems.”

Whispering back without turning towards him I inquire, “What makes you think that I’m worried?”

“You seem rather tense.”

“Well, I’m not,” I reply quickly.

“Just in case you are I suggest that you don’t look down or look over the edge. It will make the trek easier. The horse knows its way.”

“Don’t patronize me,” I whisper sharply.

Laughing under his breath Bran quickly focuses his attention back to scouting the path ahead. With a quiet sigh I close my eyes in irritation. Following Bran’s advice I decide to look at the side of the mountain. Anything to keep me from noticing the edge or the path beneath.

Not thirty minutes later Bran stops the caravan and silently motions all to be quite. Not a single sound is uttered, not even a snort out of the horses. It’s as if they sense the same danger Bran does.

Following Bran’s eyes I look down the cliff only to see a group of soldiers following a path below us going the opposite direction. I recognize the colors they are wearing to that of Enishi’s men. I could scream out to them and surely be rescued however that would put Bran and his men in danger. I couldn’t do something like that even if I wish to be home, and away from the arrogant man riding with me. The last thing I want to do is become the sole reason for so many deaths especially those of the men I have become attached to; Bran not being one of them naturally.

So quietly I sit in the saddle all the while watching my one chance at assured freedom slip by me. Enishi would surely be disappointed in me to know that I chose to stay in the custody of his mortal enemy rather than have Bran and his men killed. But then again I doubt anything that I’ve experienced will ever be told to Enishi. What he doesn’t know won’t kill him. It’s not like I am likely to marry him anyway. There’s no way I will accept his offer; I don’t love him nor will I ever. The fact that I have given him little thought until now has proven as much.

Each second feels like an eternity as Bran and the rest of his band stiffly wait for the passing of Enishi’s troops . As the sound of the horses drift away into the distance I attempt to stretch my arms only to have them quickly grasped by Bran. Pushing my body closer to his torso as to restrain me he covers my mouth with one of his hands as I begin to protest. Not more than a couple of moments pass before we hear a solitary scout make his way down the path Enishi’s men just took. Just as the men ahead of him did prior he continues his trek unaware of our presence.

Waiting until Bran gives me any indication of safety I remain passive in his arms. I am not foolish enough to fight Bran on his actions especially since it very well preserved our cover. I clearly under-estimated Enishi and his men’s ability to scout however who would have imagined such a small search party to take such precautions? My father uses a similar technique when they are being hunted or are traveling undercover. I can not be sure but something tells me that my decision to stay with Bran was the correct one. They are not out to find me; Enishi’s men are in the midst of a mission of some importance. What is Enishi up to? Is he indeed trying to kill Bran and his men or is it something completely different?

Releasing his hold on me Bran guides the party on slowly and far more cautiously than before. While the men have all been extraordinarily quiet before somehow they have succeeded at becoming near deathly quiet. The last hour on the beaten mountain pass was one of the most uncomfortable and miserable rides in my life. I doubt I’d ever wish to see the likes of such travel ever again nor will I ever get used to such an atmosphere. Hopefully I will not have to experience such horrid means of travel much longer and will finally be allowed my long deserved freedom.

Shivering I wrap my shawl around my shoulders snuggly. The cool night air combined with the tense atmosphere must have become too much for me. From the looks of it the weather is only going to get worse. I can make out in the distance what looks like heavy clouds. Most likely there will be rain tonight.

Wrapping his coat around me Bran quietly states, “The weather doesn’t look good. Luckily I know of a place we can set camp for the night.”
As I attempt to push the jacket aside Bran firmly asserts, “You’re cold and I have little need of it. A healer is of no use when sick so take it.”

Gratefully I accept the jacket and we continue to ride in silence once more. What does one say after such a statement? A part of me wishes to know whether he sees me more than a healer but the more sensible side of me knows better than to ask such things. Emotions have little meaning in the relationship we hold. I am here to serve a single purpose; to help heal one of his men. Once that is done we will have no other reason to speak or meet one another. I’ve already created unnecessary attachments towards his men, I do not need to do so with Bran. The less I know about him and he I the quicker we can put this whole affair behind us.

My optimistic outlook on the whole idea of adventure has died quickly after the events of late. I think I’ve had enough excitement in the past few days to last me a lifetime. I have no idea how Misao could have ever romanticized such a thing! I’ve ridden on horseback many a time however traveling in a caravan like the one I’m currently in is putting too much stress on my body. How does one make a living traveling for such prolonged periods of time? I have to respect the men and women who do this on a regular basis. I doubt I could ever get used to such a rough schedule.

Now it’s a matter of finding a way to hide my current state from Bran and his men. For one, I don’t care for looking weak in front of Bran, but mostly I just don’t like the idea of drawing attention to myself in such a manner. Despite my playful demeanor and my appeal for flirtatious banter I consider myself far more reserved than I try to appear. I am a strong and independent woman and I go to far lengths to protect my reputation. Some people may call it vanity however I view it as being self aware of who I am and what I wish to accomplish. A woman must be strong on all fronts to be taken seriously in my line of work and my work means everything to me. Bran has challenged me and I will not falter. To do so will make me appear inexperienced and unprofessional. My reputation as a healer will disappear and I will have little option than to become some bargaining chip for my uncle’s campaign. I don’t have any wish to live and breathe merely to breed and raise some nobleman’s children nor to entertain to his every beck and call. I will not fall into that trap and therefore I can not lose this patient nor lose face. I will remain strong and hide my pain no matter what. I am not a pushover nor some little girl who needs pity. I’m a daughter of Sevenwaters; we cannot be so easily labeled or judged.

I miss Sevenwaters and the comforts it provides. What I wouldn’t give to talk to mother right now or listen to Misao’s constant chattering. Of course Kenji and I would tease her relentlessly for speaking of such menial matters while father might walk in and try to pacify the situation by horribly attempting to reassure Misao. Naturally this would only lend to Misao’s anger becoming directed towards father but he never complains. In fact I think he purposely does so in order to distract Misao. Strangely it works well, but that sort of technique works well on simple minded individuals.

This is bad, I shouldn’t be thinking of home so much. Those times are past and will never be again. Misao has been wed to Cho Ui Neill (ee NAY-ill) and mother is ill. Life at home isn’t what it once was and no amount of wishing can change that.

“Are you so truly annoyed to be in my presence? And here I thought my offering of a jacket was rather charming and gentlemanly.”

“Huh?” I airily reply in puzzlement.

“All you have to say is ‘huh?’” Bran retorts in awe. “Perhaps I have finally made you speechless.”

With a sigh I comment sarcastically, “You know me far too well. I am completely awe struck over your gallant lifestyle.”

“As is to be expected,” Bran states egotistically. “Women can not resist the jacket. It’s a classic move my people have perfected and passed down throughout the generations.”

“Your people?” I retort in mock awe. “And here I thought this whole time that you were a man with no allegiance.”

“I might not live or serve any one man or country however I do have a place of origin. I am an Englishman no matter how much I might try to forget.”

“Let me get this straight,” I reply sternly. “You try to hide your past and your background yet you still announce aloud that you are an Englishman? That seems to make little sense in my mind.”

“I am not proud of my background but I was born where I was born. There is no sense in denying it especially since it is quite apparent in my speech,” Bran states calmly. “I know who I am and do not lie to myself like others I might be acquainted with.”

“You think I am lying to myself?” I inquire angrily.

Shaking his head in disappointment Bran replies, “I never stated any names. For all you know I could be talking about one of my men or clients I’ve held. Your business has little to do with me. I do not wish to meddle in others affairs unless I must, unless you wish me to treat you otherwise and I will gladly make all my opinions known.”

“You’ve spoken your mind plenty in the past, why should now be any different?”

Chuckling Bran retorts, “Only because you’ve asked for my opinion and only when you’ve made your point so obviously clear.”

“Are you saying that I’ve provoked your judgment thus far because I couldn’t disagree with you more,” I firmly ask in annoyance.

“That’s exactly what I’m suggesting.”

“What about the campfire or that time in the woods? Did I also provoke those opinions from you?” I ask condescendingly.

Bran warningly whispers in my ear, “Your attitude towards me was reason enough for such a discussion and I apologized for the woods already. Do we have to talk about that at the moment?”

Understanding that I have pushed Bran far too much I nod my head silently in acceptance towards his request. It really was wrong of me to mention the night in the woods. It isn’t a proud moment for him nor was he completely in his right mind at the time. Perhaps I have gone too far to prove a point.

“We’re here,” Bran states snapping me out of my thoughts. Addressing his men he states aloud clearly and powerfully, “We will rest here for the night before meeting our employer. Rest well tonight, we have a long few days ahead of us.”

Swiftly and seemingly effortlessly the men begin to unpack the horses and set camp. I stare at the men in shock as I take in the location in fear. This place is beyond ordinary. The old building may be long abandoned but the place resonates a strong, ancient otherworldly power. This is a place between realms where once the Fomhoire (fo- vo- reh) dwelt. This isn’t a suitable place to rest. They deserve more respect than for a caravan full of men to trespass this space unannounced and unaware of any wrong doing.

“Unless you want to sleep on the horse I suggest that you come down,” Bran comments teasingly.

“Your concern once again astounds,” I haughtily retort.

With a broad grin Bran replies, “I had thought to assist you however I doubt you would have appreciated the gesture.”

“I would not have appreciated such attention,” I firmly state with head held high in defiance.

Placing his hands on his hips he cockily comments, “Well, you might have all day but we don’t. From the looks of the sky the storm is going to be here in a matter of hours. That doesn’t leave us much time to unload and set the camp.”

“I’m fine. Check on Jin and I’ll take care of the horse.”

“Are you sure?” Bran asks doubtfully. “You haven’t ridden with us long enough to know the procedures.”

“I know how to care for a horse. I’ve taken care of many horses before without a problem,” I haughtily retort.

“As the lady wishes,” Bran replies condescendingly. “Dog do you need assistance with Jin?”

“I am fine for the most part however I could use some help supporting his legs while I dismount from the horse,” Dog calmly states with a smile.

As Bran is about to make his way towards Dog and Jin I take the chance to slide off the saddle all the while firmly holding onto the horn for support. I knew that I was going to be weak however the landing is worse than I had hoped. It’s a good thing that I held onto something because I’m sure I might have fallen upon impact.

Looking back at me Dog states in concern, “Are you alright Megumi? Your legs look a little wobbly.”

“I’m fine,” I reply proudly. “Just slightly sore but nothing I’m not used to.”

“I don’t know. Chief I think…”

“I’m fine Dog,” I firmly assert. “Nothing a little rest won't cure.”

Releasing my hold on the horse’s saddle I confidently take a couple steps only to find my legs collapse from under me. As I’m about to fall Bran quickly grabs hold of me and hoists me into his arms.

I stare at the man in shock. How was he able to lift me in time. Wasn’t he helping Dog with Jin?

“You really are becoming troublesome,” Bran states in annoyance. “If you need help tell me. Pretending to be of use will only hinder our progress.”

“From our vantage point it looks like you just wanted to carry our resident healer,” Wolf teases.

I blush as Bran dismisses the comment and begins to walk me towards the old ruins. All the while I pray to the Otherworldly beings whom dwell on these lands for their acceptance towards our stay. Bran and his men may be ignorant of the significance of this land however I will not trespass unannounced and with intentions unknown. I only hope they will receive us well.

Quickly making our way through the doorway I take in the vastness of the space. The structure may only be a single room occupancy however it looks large enough to house a good number of people comfortably. I’m sure if the room is partitioned properly we could hold the entire group of men into the structure though it will be a tight fit. The fact that we are in a four walled structure away from the rain is far better than I could have hoped for. At least we won't be out in the elements and with all the bodies the room may keep out the chill.

Laying me on the floor Bran immediately puts his attention into unrolling a cot one of his men previously set in the corner of the room. Normally I would fight with him over giving me preferential treatment however I am far too tired to fight with him. He might have won this round but I’ll make sure not to lose to him in the future.

Lifting me onto the cot Bran asserts firmly, “I know that you have your pride, but for once just stay quiet and accept someone’s assistance. You might fool the others but no one can remain strong by themselves.”

Smiling up at Bran I retort, “Does this mean that you wish to be my support.”

Turning his head away from me he quickly replies, “I’m merely speaking strategically. Battles are won by armies not solitary men.”

“Aw,” I draw out in mock contemplation. “So you see me as a one of your men?”

“How could I?” Bran snaps back. “How could I even consider a woman a part of my troop?”

Chuckling I comment, “Whatever position you view me among your men doesn’t really matter. Thanks for helping me just now.”

“So you admit that you were too proud back there?” Bran cockily asserts.

“I really am too sore to fight you at the moment so don’t push me too far.”

“We wouldn’t want our resident healer to get angry now,” Bran states with a smirk. “Rest while the men and I take care of the camp. I’m sure the men will be asking for a story later in the evening.”

I nod my head as I watch Bran walk towards the entryway. I don’t know what caused Bran to be so compassionate just now however I doubt it will last. Bran must be tired and just wanted to keep me appeased. When I wake up I’m sure I’ll be confronted with the same hot-headed, arrogant man I’ve come to know. I shouldn’t look too much into this.

With a sigh I close my eyes and pray that the Fomhoire have heard my prayers.