A Helping Hand [Elenora | Caitrin]

[Lady Elenora]

Caitrin walked towards Nora and Little Esmae already had her arms out, for she had already anticipated that her mother would grab her from Nora's embrace. “Hello you.” Caitrin greeted Esmae, her mouth wide in a smile as she took her from Nora's arms. Though, Esmae did not mind being with Nora, nothing compared to being in her mother's loving embrace. Esame seemed to be more settled with Caitrin and gurgled happily. She even grabbed Caitrin's hair-- making her wince a little, which made Nora giggle a little as it reminded her of her little sister when she was a babe. Caitrin began to rock her gently before she squeezed her closer. “Have you been good, eh?” Nora watched as Esmae just looked up at her mother, before smiling at her in response to her question. Caitrin kissed her daughter's forehead before asking Nora, “I hope she wasn’t too much of a handful?”

"Oh no, little Esmae was no trouble.It took a while for her to get use to Isabel, but after a while she settle quite a bit. She even had a great time playing with some of my sister's old toys." Nora answered her question reassuringly.

They both watched Esame amusing herself with her babbling before Nora looked up at Caitrin and saw her small, sad smile. Nora knew that things with her father were bad, she knew that her father was dying. Yet she could sense that Caitrin might not be aware that she knew this for she held on the belief that things may turn out differently. “I’m just preparing him a brew. It might give him strength.” Caitrin began to explain to her, trying to sound positive, but Nora knew that things weren't looking good. And this made her like Caitrin more for she knew that she was trying her best to be helpful. “But I can’t see what is exactly wrong with him, he’s just slipping further and further into his fever.” She finished solemnly.

"To be honest Caitrin, I always knew deep down that my father isn't going to get better. I just didn't want to give up on him yet. So do not for guilty for not being able to save him. I'm just grateful that you are doing your best to help ease his suffering...." Nora stopped as the tears began to slip down her cheek which she then wiped with her sleeve, before she continued, "The oddest thing Caitin, is that a few weeks before my father collapsed and grew weak with an unexplained fever, he was feeling much better. Though, he was very much still filled with grief after losing my younger sister; he started venturing out of his chambers more, spending time in the parlor or going out in the gardens for walks. He even said that he was ready to go out hunting with this friends soon...." Nora paused as she remembered how happy she felt to see her father smiling again. God, it had made Nora so happy and joyous to see him like that again.

"Then one day my father and I were walking in the gardens when his face grew pale and grey and he just collapsed. We send for many physicians, well the ones that were willing to come. But none of them could work out what was wrong with him. They said it is his grief that is killing him and they were not willing to investigate any further. They just told me to keep him comfortable until he dies..." She stopped again as she tried to get the next words out. For she just hoped that Caitrin would believe her and not think that she was clutching onto straws.

"I believe that something isn't right with my father's illness. That something sinister or magical is involved." Finally, Nora stopped speaking to look up at Caitrin, to see her reaction. And for the first time in a while, she felt like she wasn't crazy.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin was glad to have Esmae back in her arms. The baby was gurgling happily, and didn’t quite know what to do with herself. She wasn’t used to being with strangers, no, the only other people, bar Nora and the maid, that she had been introduced to tended to be close family. Rouland, Caitrin’s Uncle, wouldn’t hold the children, but Caitrin’s close friend Celyn was already being donned their adoptive Uncle. It was a nice thought really, after everything that had come between her and Celyn, she still found it fitting to call him her best friend, because he understood everything she had been through, and he had helped her through everything, even if that had led them into tricky situations some of the time. Esmae’s finger’s in her hair spoke of determination and Caitrin did now wince. “Let go sweeting.” She cooed Esmae softly, but the baby didn’t let go, instead she began to wave the hair around even more wildly. Eventually she prised Esmae’s fingers off her red hair, and let her play with her thumb instead. Esmae seemed disappointed with this settlement, but proceeded anyway.

The fact Esmae had settled at all with someone else made Caitrin quite surprised. Perhaps she was a little too protective over her children sometimes, but she couldn’t help herself. She just didn’t want anything to happen to them. She hadn’t employed a nurse, or a wet nurse or anything. She was determined to do this by herself, and with Griff by her side of course. She didn’t want her children growing up thinking they were unloved, as she had. Her parents hadn’t been the most loving of people, and Caitrin didn’t want to pass on that mindset to her children. Both of the twins were incredibly loved, and they would always be loved. “Thank you for looking after her, she can be a little feisty sometimes, but I’m glad she was well behaved.” Esmae had inherited her mother’s personality already, whereas Arthur tended to be more reserved. It was a nice mix to interact with though.

Though Nora told Caitrin not to feel guilty, she knew that she would continue to feel that guilt. She was just sat she could not be of more help, and that the help she had to offer wasn’t up to scratch. She could possibly help him gain a little strength, but he was dying and that was that. No one could stop that, not even the most powerful of sorcerers could ever prevent death. It was probably a good thing they couldn’t but that wouldn’t be of any consolation to Nora at all. “I will set about making the brew then.” Caitrin said softly, she would have to prepare it in the kitchens of course, the room wasn’t really suitable.

As Caitrin listened to Nora’s theory, she could understand where the young woman was coming from. It was strange that he could be struck down with such an illness so quickly if he was recovering. Magical illnesses were not uncommon in Camelot, despite the outright ban on sorcery. However, in such instances the whole kingdom was usually affected, not just one person. That was the only thing that Caitrin found strange. Maybe Nora was just trying to rationalise her father’s condition, and Caitrin could understand that, but she didn’t want to suggest outright that it was sorcery. After all, that was the conclusion everyone rushed to when things weren’t going their way. Caitrin hated the fact sorcery was branded in such a negative light, not all sorcerers were evil, and she was living proof of that. “It could perhaps be sorcery, but I’m not the person to judge that.” She was trying to keep very calm and cool about this, though it had touched a nerve, “But who would have reason to poison your father?”

[Lady Elenora]

“Thank you for looking after her, she can be a little feisty sometimes, but I’m glad she was well behaved.” Caitrin thanked Nora gratefully. "She was no problem at all. Not much anyway. And to be honest her lively personality brighten the house up." Nora smiled at them both.

Nora was glad that Caitrin was willing to make her father a brew and smiled gratefully back at Caitrin for she had a feeling that Caitrin was feeling useless. But for some reason, Nora felt that she could rely on Caitrin to do her best to help her, whether it was to make her father feel less pain or to be someone she could be honest and open with. For she didn't have many close friends or many family anymore as looking after her father and the estate commandeered a lot of her time. Causing Nora to lose quite a few acquaintances.

Nora was eternally grateful that Caitrin let her speak out out the theory that had been plaguing her mind for a few months. Especially since magic was banned in the kingdom and whenever anyone heard the words "magic" or "sorcery" they would became afraid and gasp out in fear. Caitrin did neither. She just asked her in a calm, thoughtful, reasonable voice, “It could perhaps be sorcery, but I’m not the person to judge that.” At this point Nora got a feeling that it had still touched a sore spot with her, “But who would have reason to poison your father?”

Finally, Nora thought, for not many people had asked her this question. They just assumed it was her father's grief and mental condition that was killing him.

Nora nodded her head solemnly, then taking a deep breath she began to explain her theory."Firstly before I tell you my theory, I would ask that you do not divulge any of what I tell you to anyone. I know that I can trust you. It's just.." Nora paused for a little before she continued speaking, "...I'm afraid of speaking it out loud in fear that in doing so you might think I'm acting irrationally, even delusional. But since you asked and I feel that I can trust you I will tell you. Not many people know this, for my father kept it a secret, but the estate is in danger.

Many years ago before my father married my mother, my grandfather put a condition on the estate and title where it will only be inherited by male heirs. The reason my father told me of this was because my mother wasn't a noblewoman and compared with my fathers wealth, she was not considered worthy. However, my father threatened to leave and throw away his inheritance if his father did not accept his chosen bride into the family. So instead my grandfather put in place this condition where in the event that my mother could not conceive a male heir, the estate and title would go to the next male relative. After giving birth to myself and my sister and suffering many still-births, my parents finally gave up hope of having a male to inherit the estate and look after both myself and my sister." Nora paused as she got to the most difficult part of her story.

"Thus, it was then my father decided to try and get to know his cousin, twice removed, who would succeed him. For while I would still inherit a small amount of money to live upon his death, but I guess my father hoped that maybe his cousin and I would form an attachment. However, it was not to be so for as soon as I meet Edward I disliked him straight away. I can not explain it, but I could not trust this man for all he cared about was money, drinking and gambling." Nora started having flashbacks to the first time she meet him, then she shook her head to get rid of it -- for it always made her extremely angry -- she continued, "Though he was very good at manipulating the people around him, including my father, I saw through it. Anyway, after a while my father began suspecting Edward was not the man he proclaimed to be. One day they got into a fight as Edward found out that my father was seeking legal advice on the matter of the inheritance..." Elenora remembered the look of anger on Edward's face when he left the house after their fight, which still to this day made her whole body shiver.

"Then one day when my father was feeling better, Edward came to the estate seeking absolution and to extend an olive branch of friendship towards us. No doubt because he had heard about my father's mental condition. My father, though he was feeling better, did not have the energy to refuse him and allowed him to stay for the whole day. No less than 24 hours later my father collapsed and his condition worsened." Tears begun to fill Nora's eyes as she finally finished telling her story.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Having Esmae back in her arms certainly did settle Caitrin somewhat. She just held her there and kissed the top of her head and sighted softly. She never felt quite right when she was apart from the twins, even if it was for a short time. Caitrin was already missing Arthur, but she would make up for the time they had been apart for. She wasn’t ever far away from the twins at any point during her day. She probably took too much time out of her day for them, but she couldn’t help herself. She hated thinking her babies were without her for too long. Caitrin was always a bit panicky about leaving the twins for too long, she didn’t quite feel at ease unless she knew exactly where they were. She probably should be more at ease, but she couldn’t. “Well I’m glad” Caitrin enthused, and wrapped her arms around her daughter, keeping her close. Esmae felt warm and her excitement at being back with her mother was almost infectious even given the present circumstances.

The brew wouldn’t take too long to make up for Nora’s father. It was only a mixture of a few different herbs, but together they would hopefully bring him strength. Some willpower might help as well. Caitrin just wanted to ease the pain that he was going through, so if she could bring him even a little relief then she knew it would be worth it. If Nora knew her father was dying as well then it would make this time at least a little easier for her. Caitrin wasn’t sure what to say, she hadn’t known grief like Nora’s since her nurse, Helgund, had died, and that had been when she had been in her early teenage years. She was a grown woman now with children, and still she felt a slight twinge whenever she thought of the woman. “If we go to the kitchens I can get started straight away?” Caitrin suggested softly.

The topic of magic being brought up in conversation didn’t sit well with Caitrin for a number of reasons. Of course she knew that magic was banned in Camelot, and those who had sympathies for it were just as bad as those who practised it But also Caitrin didn’t enjoy the topic being brought up as it was hard to pretend she didn’t have sympathies to the topic. She couldn’t sit here and pretend she hated everyone who practiced magic, because she was a sorceress, so how could she hate her own race? She shifted uncomfortably and ran her hand over her daughters back almost nervously as she bit her lip. She wasn’t quite sure what to say. She hated the fact as soon as sorcery was mentioned, everyone immediately thought it was a bad thing and something to be feared. She realised she had been silent for far too long, but she couldn’t just ignore this. She, in her naivety, had hoped that eventually her kind would be recognised and treated with respect again. However, it wasn’t the case. Perhaps her children would never see a world where magic was accepted. “I will not betray your trust.” Caitrin promised faithfully, and continued to listen to Nora’s story. It took her a few moments to get her head around everything, and she wasn’t quite sure she understood everything but she nodded anyway. Again she felt slightly annoyed that once again the person enacting the evil deeds had sorcery. It was a few rogue sorcerers like that which meant the rest of them had to live in fear as well. “Does your cousin have sorcery?” She asked carefully and bit her lip softly, she didn’t want this to be Nora’s opinion of magic, but the woman had been brought up in Camelot so it was to be expected.

[Lady Elenora]

Nora nodded her head at Caitrin's question of going to the kitchens to prepare her concoction. But before she could allow that to happen she had to get something off her chest. Nora appreciated Caitrin's promise not to tell anything to anyone and knew she could trust her with discretion.

When she began talking, Nora noticed Caitrin shift uncomfortably and stroke her hand nervously up and down her daughter's back, making Nora think that she must have said something to offend her, something about magic. But Nora didn't have time think on it as she continued to confide to Caitrin what had been plaguing her mind and heart for a while now. She could tell that some of her details was probably not making sense to Caitrin has it barely made sense to her when her father explained the situation to her.

“Does your cousin have sorcery?” Caitrin asked Nora carefully and bit her lip softly, which Nora did not fail to notice. Of course both Nora and Caitrin had grown up in a time where magic was banned and considered to be evil, but Nora always did not know what to think about it, for she found it hard to believe that everyone who practiced magic to be evil for it seemed to her to be a too generalized opinion.

"No, I believe that he does not. But that doesn't mean that he would not try to use magic for evil purposes," Nora paused as she tried to think of something to convey to Caitrin her true beliefs towards magic. Because for some reason Nora felt compelled to do so. "Which is what I hate the most is if he is doing what I think he may be, it's furthering the current belief that all magic is evil," Nora stated a little defiantly -- like she used to do with her tutoring sessions with Mr Thornton before being told off for her what he considered outlandish views. Blushing she mumbled a quick, nervous apology, "I'm sorry... I always let my mouth run away from me. My tutor was constantly telling me off for expressing things that should not be expressed." A few awkward moments of silence passed and Nora offered generously, "Perhaps I will show you to the kitchens now. You can bring Esmae with you. For I'm sure Cook won't mind."

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin nodded in agreement with Nora, she was sure the woman would lead the way to the kitchens when it was needed. However, perhaps things needed to be said first, it wouldn’t matter if her brew was delayed another ten minutes or not anyway. Nora’s father was quite stable, he was slipping away slowly but steadily. It was sometimes more cruel for someone to die in that way. A quicker death was swift and meant that there was relatively no pain. What Nora’s father was going through was just cruel, and she hoped to change it. “Can I take Esmae with me?” She asked softly and held her daughter quite firmly, she felt quite uneasy about leaving her again. She wasn’t sure how Nora would react to that, but she wanted to keep her daughter close as usual. She didn’t feel quite the same if she didn’t have at least one of the twins within her reach.

The fact that Nora was using such an abrupt tone did offend Caitrin in a way, but she was used to people having such views about sorcery, so it was to be expected. She was well used to those in Camelot being ignorant to the good, and beauty that magic could cause. Most would probably never remember a time with magic, Nora certainly wouldn’t so Caitrin shouldn’t see too much into her words, she wasn’t trying to insult her after all, she was doing it quite by accident. Caitrin had fortunately not been brought up in Camelot, she was a Mercian noblewoman, so she knew that you could live in harmony with sorceresses. If she hadn’t been brought up in Camelot then her gifts would never have been put to use at all, she might even hate magic herself.

A burning feeling pulsed through Caitrin as Nora began to speak about how all magic was evil. She twitched slightly and her hand went to protect her daughters head, as if not wanting her daughter to hear such words. She wanted her daughter to be sympathetic towards those with sorcery. After all, she might have inherited her mothers streak. “Not all magic is evil.” She was growling, but she couldn’t help herself. She had been living in fear for years and she was starting to tire of it. As soon as she had said it though she regretted it. It wasn’t wise to speak of such things in Camelot. She breathed out slowly and put a hand to her head, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap at you.” She was trying to settle herself but failing miserably. She let her temper flare out too quickly and she was now starting to regret it. “What do you think your cousin did exactly?” She asked, trying to distract the topic somewhat. She coughed awkwardly and nodded, her face lighting up as Nora confirmed she could take her daughter to the kitchens with her, “Lead on, oh, I’ll need my herbs.” Caitrin doubled back and picked up her basket with a hand awkwardly as she was still holding Esmae. She rejoined Nora and smiled at the woman, waiting for the woman to lead on.

[Lady Elenora]

“Not all magic is evil,” Caitrin snapped at Nora with a mixture of fear and a little anger registered on her face. Nora quickly muttered out nervously, "Oh no that is what I meant, Caitrin. I fear you misunderstood my meaning. I only meant that I'm not sure whether everyone who practices magic is evil. For I find it hard to believe that everyone who is born with it is so. Though I've not encountered anyone with magic." There, Nora thought. Hopefully that has made her meaning more clear. I hope....

Nora watched closely as Caitrin breathed out slowly and touched her head -- maybe it was the tiredness after tending to her father that made her snappish, Nora thought. Or perhaps something else -- then she apologized, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap at you.”

"That's quite alright," Nora responded with a gentle voice hoping that it would help settle Caitrin's temper down a little. For she felt increasingly bad for what she had said or the misunderstanding of the words she had used. Nora grew up in Camelot being told that magic was evil, whereas Caitrin she knew had grown up in Mercia where the rules were different. That was until she moved to Camelot to become her uncle's ward.

“What do you think your cousin did exactly?” Cait asked curiously, though it was somewhat laced with her trying to change the topic.

"I'm not sure, exactly. All I know is that my father was well before my cousins's visit." Nora responded with a level of certainty.

Caitrin coughed nervously, but then Nora felt delighted as her face lilt up at her agreeing for Caitrin to take her daughter with her. She was glad of it as their conversation had been on the verge of hitting an ice-berg and Nora did not want Caitrin to think ill of her for she truly wanted to Caitrin to become her friend. She just hoped that Caitrin felt the same.

“Lead on, oh, I’ll need my herbs.” Nora watched as Caitrin stepped back to grab her basket then struggled with carrying both the basket and her daughter. "Here why don't I take the basket for you," Nora offered kindly, waiting for Caitrin to give her response, before grabbing the basket gently from her as to not disturb the baby.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin Aubert couldn’t understand why she had suddenly got so annoyed at Nora’s outburst. Perhaps it was just the fatigue of taking care of twins setting in with an already raw topic. Pressing her lips together, she felt her anger flare up. She’d never been famed for having a good temper, and she knew that. She was more one to speak first and think later; that was her true Mercian side coming out in full force. She felt quite bad that Nora had to back track over her words so much, but Caitrin was annoyed, so she was already too far gone to care an overtly amount. “They aren’t all evil.” She very nearly said ‘we’ instead of ‘they’ which would have been the biggest mistake of the day really, or her life. She didn’t suppose Nora looked like the sort of person who would run at the chance of handing her over to the laws of the land, however, she couldn’t take that chance. Her husband hadn’t known for years that she was a sorceress, now it was just a part of their relationship. “They just aren’t.” She concluded and looked down at her daughter, still annoyed with Nora’s earlier words. Esmae, as if she could sense the change in tone of her mothers voice began to look like she was becoming distressed. She began to give a small, pathetic sort of cry and Caitrin sighed, and supported her in both her arms, calming her voice as she did. “I’m sorry sweeting, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to shout.” She kissed Esmae’s forehead as the child cried in her arms, and she all at once felt incredibly guilty. It didn’t take that long to calm Esmae down, but Caitrin still felt quite bad for being the cause of her child’s grief. Jesu, she couldn’t do anything right today could she?

“I’m sorry.” Caitrin said again, but she did truly feel incredibly sorry and she groaned out slightly. Caitrin looked back to Nora, at least glad the woman accepted her apology. She wasn’t sure how much she had given away through her outburst, but it was an episode that she wouldn’t be repeating anytime soon and that was for sure. Esmae was back to just being content in her mothers arms and Caitrin brushed her hand over Esmae’s small whisps of ginger air and sighed out softly.

She nodded at Nora’s words, well Caitrin couldn’t think of any magic she herself was capable of that could bring a man’s health down so rapidly. She blinked slightly and bit her lip, just thinking quietly to herself. “If the brew does not work, then maybe we will have a clearer picture of what is wrong.” Caitrin suggested softly. As Nora offered to take her basket, Caitrin smiled gratefully. “Thank you.” It meant she could keep her grasp on her daughter for the time being. She began to walk in the direction that she assumed the kitchen to be in, “The brew won’t take very long to make.” Caitrin assured Nora with a smile.

[Lady Elenora]

“They aren’t all evil.” Caitrin stated strongly with a hint of defiance in her voice. Then she added, “They just aren’t." Nora could still tell that she was still annoyed with her by the way she quickly looked down at her daughter. Esame began to fuss, as she had picked up on her mother's annoyed state. Which made Nora feel worse for the inconsiderate way she handled the subject of sorcery. It was a tough subject to discuss as anyone who had magic or consorted with someone with magic was executed in Camelot.

Nora watched as Caitrin apologized and soothed her daughter down. She could see how much of a good mother Caitrin was. Maybe that was why she believed that not all magic was bad because she wanted her daughter to believe the best in people no matter who they are or the abilities they may possess. Which was amiable, yet Nora knew there was something more to it. But she had no time to think more on it for Caitrin apologized to her again, which Nora shook off, "Really, Caitrin. It's me that should be apologizing for the inconsiderate way I spoke before." Before adding nervously, afraid that Caitrin won't accept her apology, "I just hope that you can forgive me and not think ill of me."

As Caitrin was grabbing the basket she suggested softly, “If the brew does not work, then maybe we will have a clearer picture of what is wrong.” Nora nodded her head before grabbing the basket from Caitrin's arm after she agreed to her offer of unburdening her load.

With that sorted out, Nora led both Caitrin with little Esame in her arms to the kitchen. Nora had already requested that some room be made on the kitchen bench for Caitrin to prepare her brew as well as a sleeping basket to place little Esame in, in the event that she need to sleep whilst remaining close to her mother. For Nora knew that babies liked to sleep and needed it.

"Here," Nora began to explain, pointing to the corner of the bench, "is where I've organized a spot for you to work. I also asked Isabel to put a basket with some blankets for little Esame in case she needs to sleep. But that of course is up to you. She could just sit here with Isabel or myself on the floor with some playthings if she isn't ready for her nap?" She asked gently.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin pressed her lips together so she couldn’t say anything else to give herself away. She couldn’t show herself to be sympathetic towards sorcery and she knew that. She was a Mercian yes, but she was living by Camelotian rule now and she knew that. She breathed out slowly and just looked down at her daughter. Now the child had stopped crying she was just looking up at her mother, and guilt still tore through her. Through snapping at Nora she had scared her own child. What sort of mother did that? She kissed Esmae’s forehead and just pressed her cheek against the top of her head, needing to feel that connection to her little girl. “I’m sorry.” She whispered to Esmae and kissed her head again before looking back up to Elenora. “It doesn’t matter.” Caitrin brushed away rather stiffly, they shouldn’t be talking about such things anyway. She held her daughter in both her arms, just holding her there. She knew full well that her children could inherit the sorcerer’s streak from within her, though it wouldn’t show for another few years, and only if she decided to teach the words to her children. She didn’t have innate magical abilities, it was all learned. But that meant her children could learn as well, and that meant that she had to protect her family more than ever. “I’m sorry as well, I got a bit carried away.” She admitted softly, and hoped that would be the end of the conversation in this sense anyway. They might be in trusted company but she knew that it was still dangerous talk. People had gone to the stake for saying less than they had.

Smiling at the other woman as she took her herb basket she followed Elenora to the kitchens. It wasn’t that far a walk and as she walked she noticed Esmae yawning in her arms. She was glad, because the child had been up most of the night, and Caitrin was starting to worry that she would never settle. Perhaps she could set her down somewhere to sleep. She would probably sleep right through until she needed a feed now. As Nora showed her to her work bench, Caitrin smiled and nodded at the idea of a basket of blankets for Esmae, it was a perfect solution. “I’ll settle her before I get down to working, she’s sleepy anyway.” The kitchen wasn’t too noisy, and it was quite warm so it was perfect really for getting Esmae in the drowsy mood. Placing the basket by where she would be working, she bent down and began to rock Esmae softly, humming to her and just holding her close. Esmae was already starting to submit to sleep and Caitrin could only be glad of that fact. Slowly and gently, she lowered her daughter into the basket of blankets and laid her there carefully. Esmae groaned and yawned, taking in her new surroundings. A small fist rubbed her eyes as she gave another yawn, and finally let her eye lids drop. As usual, Caitrin watched her daughter for a few moments before moving, just to make sure she was settled. When she heard Esmae start to snore she raised herself up again and looked back at Nora.

“If you give me my basket I’ll get right down to it. Could you boil me some water please?” of course that would be used to mix all the herbs together. The drink was brew when taken hot, but if Nora’s father had to take it when it was cooled then that wasn’t a problem either.

[Lady Elenora]

Nora was extremely happy when she saw Caitrin's reaction to her arraignments for Esame -- especially after the way things had turned in their previous conversation. She was glad that Caitrin appreciated it, for she really wanted Caitrin and Esame to feel at home here.

“I’ll settle her before I get down to working, she’s sleepy anyway.” Nora was just glad that the kitchen was quiet. "Great. Is there anything you need?" Nora asked wanting to be of some use.

Caitrin did not respond straight away for she was distracted with her baby who was beginning to fall asleep with her mother's rocking and humming. Caitrin then placed her gently into the basket, laid the blankets over her and watched her daughter for a few seconds to make sure she was settled. Eventually Esame's fell asleep and Caitrin lifted her head and looked at Nora and asked her if she would give her back her basket and boil her some water.

"Sure, I'll just get the basket for you," Nora told her as she handed the basket over to her. "And I'll boil some water for you." Nora turned and walked towards the stove where there was already a empty cauldron, which she filled up with water before putting it over the lit stove to heat up.

"This shouldn't take very long. I asked Anna (the cook) to turn the stove on before we arrived for I had a feeling that you may need it. For it can take a while to heat up." Nora informed her evenly.

Five minutes later the water was boiled, "Caitrin, the water is ready. What did you want to do next?" For some reason Nora wanted to stay in the kitchen and help Caitrin make the concoction for her father. Not because she didn't trust Caitrin, but rather she was interested in how medicines and concoctions were made. She just hoped that Caitrin wouldn't mind her assistance. Though she would not be offended if Caitrin did not want her help, for she would understand that it may be a distraction having to explain to her how to do things.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin was glad at least that she was able to get Esmae settled so quickly. Though Esmae could be incredibly feisty and stubborn when it came to going to sleep and settling down, when she was asleep she tended to stay like that for some time. Her daughter always looked so peaceful when she slept, and it was probably the only time that she was silent throughout the day. Caitrin kissed her daughters forehead before resuming her work. As much as she did just want to stay and watch her daughter all morning, she had work to do and she knew that. Pulling a blanket over her daughters small body to keep her warm, Caitrin then turned her attentions back to the task in hand.

As Nora handed her back her basket she smiled in appreciation. The basket just had a selection of herbs in it which would help to ease Nora’s father’s fever. Or at least that was the plan. Of course it would only work if her father was strong enough to help fight whatever it was as well. Well of course he wouldn’t get better completely, and Caitrin was glad at least that Nora did know her father was dying as it made it easier for her to tell her the facts. However, she could ease his pain. She knew Nora just wanted to help her father and Caitrin could appreciate that. She knew that if it was Griff or her children then Caitrin would do and try everything she could to save any of them, and she could see that determination in Nora now to help her father.

Smiling at Nora as she said the water would not take very long to boil, Caitrin set about her work. She took out lavender and rosemary, which were famed for their soothing powers. She began to cut both of the herbs up, making sure that she was using the extract rather than the whole plant. It wasn’t difficult work and she was well used to it. “Right I just need a cup now.” Caitrin informed Nora as she looked around, she found a goblet and emptied the essences she needed. Taking the slightly filled cup to the boiling water over the fire, she used a ladel to scoop some of the water into the cup until it was nearly full to the top. She pressed her eyes together, praying this was going to work with every inch of her being. She whispered to the cup, as Helgund had taught her, and then when she was finished she turned back to Nora and looked down at the cup. “Once it is cooled to a drinkable state, we should try and get your father to take some. It should help. I’m sorry, it’s all I can do.”

[Lady Elenora]

“Right I just need a cup now.” Caitrin informed Nora, who pointed to a goblet to her left. Caitrin turned, nodded her head in thanks, then picked up the goblet and emptied the essences into it. Then she took the cup and brought it over to the stove where Nora handed her a ladle to scoop some of the boiling water into it, filling it nearly to the top. Nora then saw her turn her back to her and wondered what she was doing. But didn't have much more time to think on it for Caitrin turned back to her and looked down at the cup hopefully, "Once it is cooled to a drinkable state, we should try and get your father to take some. It should help."

Nora nodded her head, "Yes, we can give it go after it's cooled down. Hopefully my father will be at least some-what awake to be able to take it."

"I’m sorry, it’s all I can do.” Caitrin apologized, causing Nora to step closer to the woman to assure her that her help was appreciated, "Do not apologize, Caitrin. I know that there is always a chance that these things may not work. But I'm grateful that you are willing to try and have been upfront and honest with me." Nora smiled at Caitrin warmly, hoping that she had conveyed how grateful she truly was for her help and assistance. "Since there is still some water left, why don't we have some tea while we wait for it to cool down?" Nora asked Caitrin kind heartening.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Well at least the brew was done now, that was something at least. She sighed out, at least knowing now that there wasn’t anything else that she could do for Nora’s father. This should bring him some relief, and maybe at the same time it would bring Elenora some peace as well. She smiled softly at her friend as she agreed they could take the brew to her father in a little while. It would probably help if the brew sat and mixed for a while anyway. She set the cup down on the side and breathed out slowly, it should work; it had to work really. She hadn’t used brews like that for years so she was a little rusty, but it was simple enough after all. Caitrin stepped towards her daughter but the child was still sleeping so that was something. Everything was just fine for the moment.

That was something at least, Nora was still being incredibly pleasant about everything and that reassured Caitrin somewhat. Caitrin just nodded at her friend, it was of course easier to know that Nora wasn’t expecting Caitrin to be some sort of miracle worker, because she wasn’t that at all. At least the pair knew where they stood. “It should ease his pain.” She said reassuringly, and perhaps Nora would feel better as well if she saw her father wasn’t in as much pain. Caitrin nodded at Nora as she suggested having some tea. “That sounds wonderful, thank you.” She went back over to her daughter and bent down slightly, looking over her daughter who was starting to shift in “Do you want to sit in here to have tea, or should we sit in the solar?” Caitrin asked with a soft smile, pulling the blankets up on her daughter. If they did go into the solar she would have to take Esmae with them. That would only be a case of carrying the basket she was now asleep in. She would have to take her out of it eventually anyway seeing as the basket wasn’t Caitrin’s. Tea was certainly what the pair of them needed though because at the moment, because they just needed a little bit of normality right now.

[Lady Elenora]

Caitrin smiled back at Nora gently and agreed with taking it to her father later, after the brew had cooled down enough to be administered. Caitrin then set the cup down for it to cool a little.

Nora returned Caitrin's smile when she agreed at her suggestion of having some tea together. She was glad that Caitrin returned her affection and efforts in wanting to become friends. “That sounds wonderful, thank you.” Nora watched with a small smile on her face as Caitrin went back over to little Esame to check on her. “Do you want to sit in here to have tea, or should we sit in the solar?” Caitrin asked Nora with a smile. Then she pulled the blankets up on her daughter, making Nora wonder if she would ever have the opportunity to become a mother herself. She hoped so, one day. If she ever found the right person to marry. For she loved children dearly and would love to have some of her own. Her own family!

"Well, I think it would be easiest to have tea here. Do not you agree? That way we can check on the brew and we do not have to disturb Esame's sleep." Nora replied a little cheerfully. She found it easy to feel cheerful with Caitrin and Esame around. Even though she felt guilty for feeling such a way at the moment with her father being ill and on the verge of dying. She could not prevent expressing a little joy in making a new friend.

Nora then made her way back to the stove and placed some tea leaves into the tea pot before filling it with some of the boiling water left over from before. She then gave it a good stirring with a spoon, before going over to the cup-board to get two cups. Once that was finished, she placed both tea cups and the pot onto the table and signaled for Caitrin to sit down, which she did.

"How do you like your tea?" Nora asked gently, then hearing Caitrin's response, filled her cup with some of the tea and then she spooned some sugar into it before giving it a stir. After she handed it over to Caitrin, she poured her own tea and placed two teaspoons of sugar into her own -- for she needed the energy and hopefulness to get through the day. Though she knew that Caitrin would not be able to save her father, she just wanted to see him more comfortable and not in any pain or suffering anymore. For death is bad enough, but dying in pain and suffering is something all together worse and she didn't want her father's last moments on this earth to be in pain. Rather she wanted to sit by his bedside, hold his hand and spend the last moments with her father telling him how much she loved him before he passed away.

Sitting down gently on the chair, Nora took a sip of her tea. Staring down at her tea, Nora was at a lost for what to say next for she did not want to talk about depressing matters for a moment. For a moment she wanted to pretend that everything was fine and happy. Nora looked up at Caitrin and smiled, "So how is mother-hood going?" She asked her gently with a little curiosity for being a mother is hard enough -- not in a bad way of course. Just tiring! -- but being a mother to twins must have it's moments of madness.

[Caitrin de Archer]

It certainly did make more sense to stay in the kitchens anyway, rather than completely relocating for the sake of a cup of tea. It was quite warm in the kitchens anyway, something Caitrin was grateful of, and there were seats anyway and it wasn’t uncomfortable. Plus, it meant she didn’t have to move Esmae just yet, because she didn’t want to wake her up or disturb her just yet. She had come to relish in the moments that her twins decided to sleep. It might calm Esmae down as well having a small sleep, as she had been incredibly active for the past few hours, and Caitrin just needed her to settle and to be calm. Esmae shifted a bit in her sleep and Caitrin kept her eyes on her as Elenora got the tea together. Her daughter just took her breath away for so many different reasons; so did her son in truth. She was still getting used to being a mother, and she didn’t have any regrets, she loved both the twins more than she could possibly have imagined, and now she couldn’t picture life without either of them.

Of course in the background of this quite pleasant conversation was the matter of Elenora’s father. She was glad in a way that Esmae’s presence had managed to lighten the mood of the house. Her daughter had that effect somehow. She was always amazed at how much attention the twins got, and everyone always told her how settled and happy they both looked. She loved compliments like that because it showed to her that she was getting this right, and that everything was just fine. Sighing out softly, Caitrin thanked Elenora as she handed her the tea. Smiling softly she took a sip, and sighed out again. There was nothing quite like a cup of tea, or at least Caitrin didn’t think so. Nora’s question took her by surprise, but it was a pleasant question and Caitrin pressed her lips together thoughtfully. She hadn’t been a mother for long, but she felt like a lifetime had passed since she had been in labour. The pains of the night were at the back of her mind, and nothing but the two miracles which had come out of her nine months of pregnancy took priority in her thoughts anymore. “I enjoy it, more than I thought I ever would.” Caitrin admitted softly and looked across at her daughter, “It’s hard though, I’m always tired, and so is my husband.” Griff of course helped out where he could, but she knew that he found it hard. He didn’t think he fitted in with the little picture, which was complete rubbish because he did, he just couldn’t see it. Caitrin on the other hand would never let the twins far out of her sight, it left her feeling uneasy when the twins weren’t by her side.

She gave a soft smile at Elenora, “I don’t have any regrets though, I came from a big family and I always wanted a big family as well.” Her eyes twinkled, and she was already sure that she would have another child before long. Perhaps this one would look more like Griff than the twins did. She did want more children, she wanted to give Griff son’s, because although she knew he wasn’t as obsessed with the bloodline as some families were, as a de Archer she had always had the bloodline drilled into her. She wanted to give Griff son’s that he would be proud of, and that could carry on their family name. Their daughters on the other hand would be taught to play the courts in the same way that their mother had. Of that Caitrin was sure. “And what of you Elenora, I’ve not been much in court, but you must tell me, is there anyone you have in mind yet?” she gave a soft wink, Elenora would have to think about marriage one way or another if her father was going to die. She needed protection more than anything, but Caitrin wanted her friend to settle with someone she loved, rather than someone she simply had to marry for the sake of it.

[Lady Elenora]

Nora sighed too as she took another sip of her tea. Glad of the warm, soothing sensation of the tea and of the company -- of having a peaceful moment before returning to the realities of her life.

“I enjoy it, more than I thought I ever would.” Caitrin admitted softly before she looked across at her daughter and continued, “It’s hard though, I’m always tired, and so is my husband." Nora watched the thoughtful yet contented look upon Caitrin's face as she spoke of motherhood. It made her wish that she too could experience it as well, but it was not possible for her yet. She had so much going on with her father and their estate that she did not have time to meet new people or find a suitor for herself. Someone that would love her for who she was and vica versa. For she had always wanted to marry for love and not money or status. Though, she did not want to be destitute either.

Nora smiled back at Caitrin, "Then you are extremely lucky to be blessed with two incredible children and a supportive husband."

Caitrin returned Nora's warm smile with her own, “I don’t have any regrets though, I came from a big family and I always wanted a big family as well.” Nora watched as Caitrin's eyes twinkled, no doubt she was thinking of her and her husband's future child which made Nora laugh, "I'm sure you and Griff will be blessed with another child soon."

Nora's face began to blush when Caitrin asked if she had anyone in mind to be her husband. She started to stumble out a muttered, very nervous response, "Ummm... well not at the moment seeing as my father has been ill for quite a while since my sister's death which affected us all so much... But there was someone I thought might be interested in me and..." She stopped as she thought of Aidan, who she knew was Caitrin was well acquainted with, but unsure if she should mention him. For she was embarrassed by the whole 'neither-here-or-there' situation with Aidan. Now she was afraid that her face was blushing red even more -- if that was even possible -- and if Caitrin noticed. Worse, she was scared of Caitrin teasing her about it. Although, a part of her thought that maybe Caitrin could be of some help when it came to Aidan. Well, not just Aidan but the whole courting business. Because if Nora was honest she was never rather good at it. Hence why she wasn't married though she was 26 years old. That and looking after her father after her sister's death put a damper on it.

[Caitrin de Archer]

The tea Nora had given her was certainly a welcomed change from the hustle and bustle and bother of the past few hours. It was nice to just sit with her friend, and her daughter, and know she didn’t have to think about anything else just for the moment. The brew for Nora’s father was mixing at the moment, and meant they could just sit here for the moment. Caitrin looked across as her daughter, just thinking how lucky she was to have her and her brother. Their little family was just perfect, and Caitrin didn’t want this mindset to end of course. In her naivety she hoped she would be this happy for the rest of her days.

Caitrin grinned at Elenora’s words, and just nodded thoughtfully at her. She knew she was incredibly lucky for many reasons. After all, she had married for love and not because it was the most advantageous thing for her family. Griff was a good match in many ways, he completed her as cheesy as it sounded. He knew how to sooth her, and bring her back down to earth when her temper spiralled out of control. He’d given her their children, and she’d carried them for her and for him. Griff supported her though she knew he wasn’t finding fatherhood as easy as he thought he would, but she wasn’t finding motherhood as easy too, so they helped each other out. “I know I’ve been blessed in many ways” Caitrin said rather happily, because she was so blessed really, she had a husband she loved on her arm and delightful children, and the support of her Uncle of course.

Caitrin flushed slightly at the mention of more children. Really Caitrin should be focussing on the children she had now, rather than the children she and Griff still had to bring into the world. However, she couldn’t help thinking that it wouldn’t be too long until she did have another child. The heat of the marriage bed hadn’t lost one ounce of it’s excitement. They were making up for the lost time as her condition had meant they hadn’t wanted to do anything for some time, but if anything after the birth they had become more desirable in each other’s eyes. She wouldn’t go into details though in front of Elenora, it was hardly the done thing was it? “Well I doubt it will be too long.” She flushed slightly; what went on between the sheets stayed there, “My husband is very affectionate...” She winked at Elenora and took a sip of her tea. After all the twins were hardly born out of one passionless night were they?

Caitrin was a little surprised at Elenora’s reaction. It wasn’t that she didn’t expect the woman to attract attention, she just hadn’t assumed there was anyone in particular in mind. After all, Elenora should really have been married by now with children, that much was clear. Caitrin was only twenty one and yet she already had two children. She raised her eye brows in surprise and bemusement at her friend, “What’s his name? Have I seen him at court?” Well Caitrin hadn’t been at court for some time but neither had Elenora she supposed so there was every chance she could know this man.

[Lady Elenora]

“I know I’ve been blessed in many ways” Caitrin spoke rather happily and Nora knew that the woman meant it gratefully for she was lucky to have married someone for love and not money nor status. Nora was jealous a little of her friend for she would have loved to have a family of her own. But no matter, she had more important matters to deal with at the moment, so she tried not to dwell too much on it.

“Well I doubt it will be too long.” Caitrin flushed slightly and Nora knew that while what happened between a husband and wife stayed their business -- but she could tell that their was a lot of affection between them. And that made her glad for her friend. “My husband is very affectionate...” Caitrin winked at Elenora, causing her to giggle a little at her statement before she took another sip of her tea.


Nora knew by the look on Caitrin's face that she was surprised by her answer. But she was not offended for she knew that many people assumed that since she was twenty six and still unmarried that she was not interested in matrimony. When in fact, it was the opposite. She did receive a little attention but she lacked the ability to know how to respond to such attentions. Not only that, but her life at the moment was very much busy and her time occupied that she had not been to court that much.

“What’s his name? Have I seen him at court?” Caitrin asked her curiously, causing poor Nora's cheeks to blush so.

"You do know him," Nora mumbled out quite nervously, "His name is Aidan d'Armony. But it is complicated for we have not seen or spoken to each other in a while... At one point in time I did think he was interested but..." Nora paused, a little lost for how to best explain what had happened between them. The whole situation was still confusing for her -- whether he liked her and whether she liked him. It was at times like this, Nora wished that her mother was still alive to help her navigate situations like these, situations to do with the opposite gender.

[Caitrin de Archer]

Caitrin knew she was quite lucky to have such a loving and affectionate husband. Even after childbed, the marriage bed still remained as hot as ever. There were many at court and otherwise who would have suggested her husband’s attentions would have moved from her while she was heavy with child. He hadn’t though, they had worked though it, as Caitrin had had her needs as well. Sometimes women at court forgot their own needs in place of their husbands, and it was a shame really. Caitrin smiled to herself and ran a hand through her hair, she had shared many nights with her husband in their hot bed, and she would share many, many more. Griff was an experienced lover, and so was she, so they complimented each other. Her giggles were only suppressed when she took a sip of tea, trying to stop herself from blushing too much at the topic she had brought to the table.

Though Caitrin had not been at court for a while, as her condition had prevented it when she had become too heavy with child, she couldn’t remember seeing Nora with anyone in particular. Then again, she hadn’t really been looking. She would look after today of course for her friend in court because she had cause to. Then again, she probably wouldn’t be in court as much as she used to now she had the twins. She wasn’t going to marginalise their needs because of her own pleasures at court. She had chosen to have children so she wanted to be there for them, and tend to them as best she could. She couldn’t do that if she was drinking in Camelot with the rest of society could she?

Aidan d’Amory? Now that was a name she hadn’t heard for some time. A knowing grin came over her face, yes she knew the man in ways she probably wouldn’t be discussing with Elenora, given her interest in the man. Aidan was incredibly amiable after all, he was handsome and well spoken of course. He wasn’t to Caitrin’s exacting taste, even though her Uncle had tried to suggest the match long ago, but she could see how he would be suited to Elenora and vice versa. However, it didn’t sound like it was that easy, and Caitrin should had suspected as much. Courting never did go the way you expected it to. “But what?” Caitrin asked gently with a reassuring smile, “What is it that’s bothering you about him?” Caitrin had been around the block with men, so she was the one to go to with problems about the weaker sex of course. She knew how to play men, and why they acted in certain ways. Griff was the only man to ever challenge her in a way she could respond to, and now they were wed with children. Heh, it was strange how things worked out. In her basket of blankets, Esmae gave a loud yawn, but stayed sleeping peacefully, Caitrin glanced over her before turning her attentions back to Elenora, “But you are right, I do know him, though I haven’t spoken to him properly in years.”