A small army, indeed. Seerah studied the cluster of people. Why they're but a colony of dwarfs, she mused, as the men drew nearer. Though they all varied in shape and size, like normal-beings, she estimated that the even tallest of the men-folk stood barely half her own height.
“These other men, be they warriors as well?” Grumpy asked.
“Aye. But, I assure you, we only wish...” Seerah paused, as the old man muttered something else in Grumpy's ear.
Grumpy nodded, then addressed Seerah, “What be you called and who be your people?"
“I ... I be called Seerah. Seerah MacFarlane. Galynne O'Leary of Tralee, and Kendahl MacFarlane of Alness be me parents."
Tristan's right arm tightened and he grumbled something beneath his breath. Seerah ignored him, watching silently as the elder approached Tristan's horse and looked curiously up at Seerah.
“MacFarlane of Alness? This Highland warrior be your protector, yet he obviously knew not that you be of his kind? Is he also ignorant of your Shee blood?"
“Enough of this folly!” Tristan commanded. “We will pass through here with or without your consent. ‘Tis na’ our wish to cause you harm, but if you stand in our way—"
“If we stand in you way,” the elder's voice boomed, “you will not pass!” Raising his hand he pointed at the sky, his eyes seeming to glow white. “For we are the Tuatha De Danann, the people of Dana. I be Ecne, son of Anu—the daughter of Dagdha, and this be my kingdom you trespass upon. We fear not your might, for we are of the elven race and we behold great power. This be sacred land we occupy, and you will remain silent until you are addressed or you will suffer the consequences!"
Tristan reached for his sword.
“Nay.” Covering Tristan's hand with her own, Seerah looked up into his eyes. “The God Dagdha, the good, had three sons. Ecne be the son of knowledge and poetry. If he speaks the truth, his words be not idle threats. I pray that you heed me now, for they will not harm us if we offer no menace. Why, he seeks only to protect his people, as you protect me. Though you believe not in their ways, what harm will be caused if I simply answer his inquiry?"
Tristan's sigh indicated a mix of sheer annoyance and indignant resignation as he hesitantly released his sword.
Ecne chuckled. “So, he does know of your Shee blood,
“Aye,” Seerah replied.
“What manner of protection can a mere mortal offer you? He does not believe in our ways and he owns no powers. Brawn and weapons be useless against our sworn enemy, the Fili,” Ecne declared.
“He has pledged to protect me with his life,” Seerah assured. “Though he does na’ believe, he is a man of honor. He will do what he must. ‘Tis his duty. Aye, Tristan will keep me safe."
All the Dana women gasped. The men also seemed visibly startled, their protective stance faltering slightly.
Ecne looked impressed, his expression conveying something akin to surprise and fascination, like he'd just made a startling, yet pleasant discovery. “Tristan?"
“Aye, Tristan the Barbar—” Seerah grimaced. “Uh, Tristan Kincaid be what he's called."
Ecne rubbed his chin and studied Tristan for a long moment. “The Magi has expressed knowledge of the great warrior Tristan. Aye, the prophecy states that Tristan be the protector of the chosen one. A young, fairy maiden.” Next, gazing at Seerah, Ecne scrunched his face as if he were trying to recall something from his memory. “Eyes of gray ... Skin so fare. A silken mane of long, dark hair. Rowan and thistle comprise the crown, of she who will pass through our fairy town. Rushes dry, twined ‘bout her wrists. Her silk gown flowing as she floats through the mists. With alder wand, spells and charms, she'll deliver the Shee from evil and harm. The defeat of the Fili, and no less, will bring to reign this destined princess.” Ecne's gaze turned almost penetrating as he searched Seerah's face. “Be this your fate, fair maiden, Seerah?"
“Uh...” Seerah shrugged and offered a wan smile. “So it seems. Aye.” Ignoring Tristan's exasperated sigh, she watched curiously as Ecne approached Grumpy and the others.
“Ryan,” Ecne said, “Prepare the treasures. The time of reckoning nears. We must aid the lass in her quest to fulfill the prophecy."
Grumpy nodded, then hurried off into the woods followed by two other men.
“Call your men, Tristan. We will feast and present you with treasures,” Ecne said.
“We have no time for this foolishness, we only wish to pass through your territory,” Tristan groused.
“And that you will. All in good time, me lad. All in good time,” Ecne drawled. “You have my word on this. First we have gifts you must receive. They are necessary to defeat the Fili. Call your men and we will deliver these gifts to you with great haste so you may be on your way."
Lightly touching Tristan's arm, Seerah looked up at him. The cold, harsh look in his eyes clearly expressed his anger and contempt. She could feel the tension in his body and she knew he was fully prepared to deny Ecne's invitation. “I know you have no belief in the Shee, or in me powers for that matter. I also know I've no right to ask this of you, but ... please ... Tristan, grant me this one boon—I need all the help I can get."
* * * *
Tristan's resolve was no match for Seerah's pleading gaze and pouting lips. Lifting his face towards the sky like a wolf, he took a deep breath and released a feral howl into the wind.
Ecne simply chuckled and smiled at Tristan.
A scarce moment later, the other warriors appeared in the clearing. Gareth reined his mount along side of Tristan. “All is well?"
“In a manner of speaking,” Tristan grumbled.
“Och!” Seerah cried, leaning closer to Gareth. “Tristan is distressed, because Ecne and his people be elven. They have offered us gifts and invited us to feast with them.” Turning to Ecne she smiled, “Ecne, this be Gareth."
Gareth offered a respectful nod.
“Welcome, Gareth.” Ecne looked from Gareth to Seerah, then back again, as if making a mindful comparison. “Hmmm, quite interesting."
Gareth raised his brow at Tristan in a questioning manner.
Tristan simply shrugged and grunted in reply. Seerah jabbed his side with her elbow and shot him a warning glare before turning her attention to the others. “Colin, Greum, Zeth. This be Ecne,” she introduced, her displeasure with Tristan obvious.
Tristan glowered at her. He didn't care what she thought of his manners. In fact he felt like a fool for agreeing to such nonsense. He wasn't exactly sure why he had. The decision went against his better judgment, completely. He also felt out of sorts, almost as if his actions were no longer his own. Glancing curiously at Ecne, Tristan wondered what it was about this place and the people that disturbed him so.
Ecne simply smiled, chuckling again. “Welcome, men. Please, join us."
The four warriors glanced at Tristan, awaiting his consent. Turning his attention on Ecne, Tristan realized that he'd allowed Seerah to sway his decision. Reason told him it would be better to end this foolishness now. Aye, I'll simply decline the offer. What can they do? He smiled, fully prepared to voice his objection—then felt himself nod instead.
“So good of you to agree, Tristan.” Ecne winked at him.
Tristan immediately lost track of his thoughts. Puzzled, he blinked and shook his head. He sensed that he'd wanted to protest about something, but for the life of him he couldn't remember what. “Aye,” he said feeling somewhat disoriented, as if waking from a deep, restless slumber.
“Oshloid?” Ecne summoned.
Tristan remained silent, trying to gather his wits as he watched a spindly-legged boy hurry forward from the group of women and children.
Oshloid approached Gareth, first.
Gareth relinquished his horse's reins to the boy's care and dismounted. As Colin, Greum and Zeth swiftly followed suit, Gareth walked around to the side of Tristan's mount and offered his hand up to Seerah.
When Seerah readily accepted, a sharp twisting sensation wrenched Tristan's gut.
His hazy thoughts cleared and he focused on the pair, observing the way Gareth's hands seemed to linger at her waist. Seerah appeared to savor his touch as well; her eyes went soft and a warm, an appreciative-looking smile curving her sensuous mouth. Annoyed by their blatant display of fond regard for one another, Tristan swiftly dismounted and whisked her away from Gareth.
“Covet not the pure love of your brethren, Tristan,” Ecne said.
Tristan knew then, that he hadn't been the only one to witness the undercurrents passing between Gareth and Seerah. Stopping dead in his tracks, Tristan glared at Gareth before he turned to face Ecne. “Gareth performs his duty. Nothing more."
“I see.” Clasping his hands together, in a scholarly manner, Ecne advanced. “But, envy not the fated bond Gareth and Seerah share. And, let not jealousy rule your actions. For that which is destined ... will be."
Standing before Seerah and Tristan, Ecne studied them soberly. “Though a large and mighty a warrior you surely be, Tristan, you can not demand the affections of a young maiden fair. You must win them by honoring her with words of love and kind acts. Aye, ‘tis so. For if you gain her favors falsely, through brute strength or trickery, when you enter her body, her spirit will flee, her heart will break, and her soul will suffer in despair for ever-more.” Turning his back to them he slowly walked away.
“You assume much,” Tristan said. He didn't want anything from Seerah, except to complete his mission and to be rid of her. “Aye, too much!"
Ecne stopped again. Glancing over his shoulder, he said, “I assume nothing. ‘Tis you who denies the truth. You allow your mind to govern your actions, completely. You forsake the power of magic and refuse to feel that which lies in you heart. It seems only natural that Seerah would turn to another for affection and comfort."
Although Ecne's words about love meant little to Tristan, the thought of Seerah finding comfort in another man's arms—even Gareth's—made him react physically. As his hold tightened possessively about Seerah's waist he glared at Gareth. Then, returning his attention to Ecne, Tristan said, “I do na’ believe in your faith nor your prophecies. Nor do I seek the favors of any maiden—fair or no.” Keeping his tone deceptively calm, he continued. “I offer Seerah protection, nothing more, nothing less. And I expect nothing but compliance to me orders in return. I do na’ care about this fated bond you speak of. And, I alone am responsible for her honor, as well as her safety. I have been more than patient with you. Now, be quick with your feast and gift giving for we ride before the sun sets."
A knowing, somewhat mocking smile curved Ecne's lips. “As you wish.” He offered a modest nod then retreated.
Tristan abruptly released Seerah's waist. “I gave me oath to protect you. And until we reach me laird, you are me own concern. I'll follow you to the woods where you may take care of your needs. When we join the others, I suggest you partake quickly so we may be on our way. I do na’ care if I offend these people for I do na’ believe in their ways. I also prefer na’ to shed their blood, but me patience grows quite thin."
“Faith and Beggorah! You own no patience—or manners for that matter,” Seerah replied. “Be angered and distressed by Ecne's words if you wish, but do na’ blame me. ‘Tis na’ me fault that Gareth has a more favorable and kindly manner than you do. And, I can see to me own needs.” She turned in a huff.
Tristan seized her arm and hauled her against his chest. “Do na’ test me or I'll throw you over me shoulder and haul you through the woods."
“You ... you cur!"
“Know this well, maiden, fair. Gareth, like all me men, is a warrior above all else. And me warriors are loyal to our laird and me. Until we reach Gairloch castle, you are also mine to do with as I see fit. I assure you, they will na’ stand in me way if I decide to throttle you. So, I suggest you be on your way to the woods."
“Oooh!” Seerah stomped her foot and glared up at Tristan.
“Tristan?” Gareth summoned.
“Leave off, Gareth!"
“I have no design to interfere. I wish only to have a word with you. In private. Mayhap, one of the women will go with Seerah."
“'Tis a vital matter?"
“Aye. ‘Tis a matter of great importance, indeed,” Gareth assured.
“Go.” Tristan abruptly released Seerah with a shove. “But be quick, and do na’ go far."
Seerah stumbled forward, but quickly regained her footing. “'Tis is quite touching to see how you worry after me.” She rubbed her arm.
“You're safety is me duty. Unfortunately,” Tristan retorted.
Seerah turned on her heal and strode off towards the group of women.
“What be so important, Gareth?” Tristan asked sharply, his gaze following Seerah.
“Your foolish behavior concerns me, Tristan."
Tristan's head snapped around. “'Tis na’ your place to be concerned with me actions."
“Even when you begin to turn on your own men? ‘Tis obvious you are angered with me. I wish only to know what I've done to provoke such scorn."
Gareth seemed totally unaware of his telling reaction toward Seerah. The realization only served to increase Tristan's frustration, but he refused to allow her to come between himself and Gareth.
Glancing in Seerah's direction, Tristan sighed heavily, releasing his annoyance. “Nothing. You have done nothing, Gareth."
“I see. Her looks alone be enough to cause most men to act foolish, Tristan."
“I am na’ most men.” Tristan scowled. “Neither are you."
“Neither are we gods, Tristan."
“No. But we are Highland warriors. That's close enough.” Even as he spoke the words, Tristan knew they were far from the truth. He felt almost incapable of ignoring his strong physical attraction to Seerah. Aye, he wanted her so much, the mere thought of any other man simply touching her drove him to distraction, blinding his ability to see reason. Yet he'd gone and vowed to protect her virtue, leaving him craving only that which was forbidden. If I could bed her just once, the infatuation would cease to exist. Unfortunately, he knew his sense of honor would not permit him to break his pledge.
“Tristan?” Gareth said, pulling Tristan from his deep thoughts.
“Aye. What be on your mind, Gareth?"
“I...” Gareth lowered his gaze to the ground. “Nothing."
“Nothing, indeed. Only a moment ago, what you had to say was of great importance. I know you well. Speak freely and be done with it."
“I...” Gareth hesitated. “Well, it has to do with the way you looked upon me when the old man spoke of a bond between Seerah and I."
“You are a young virile man with needs and desires. ‘Tis only natural. And you do tend to wear your heart on you sleeve.” Crossing his arms over his chest, Tristan continued, “Though ‘tis me duty to protect her, ‘tis also me duty to protect me men, including you, from her and her feminine wiles. Why, ‘tis obvious she tempts you with her charms and plays us against one another.” He nodded, pleased with this sound conclusion. “'Tis also why I looked at you so. I fear you grow enchanted with her. In all honesty,” he lied. “'tis the sole reason for me ire."
“Enchanted with Seerah? Me? Nay, Tristan.” A sincere-looking expression of pure panic seemed to light Gareth's face. His color paled as he shook his head, vehemently opposing the theory. “You misunderstand. I only meant ... that is ... when I helped her dismount something strange happened. ‘Twas as if I was spellbound. I felt—"
“You lust after her. ‘Tis all."
“Nay! ‘Twas something else entirely.” Gareth frowned with apparent frustration. “It was as if ... as if I suddenly remembered her from another time, long ago. Ecne spoke the truth. There be a bond between us, I felt it. I experienced a strange feeling like ... like ... she belongs to me—no, ‘tis more like she is somehow a part of me. ‘Twas a strong, possessive feeling. Lust? No. Definitely no!” Gareth's gaze locked with Tristan's. “I also felt the sudden need to protect her—from you. And I know you kissed her. Don't
deny it or ask me how I know, Tristan. I simply do."
Narrowing his gaze, Tristan wondered how Gareth could have possibly known about the kiss. The fog in the moor had been too thick to see trees merely inches in front of them, and Gareth had led the way. A lucky guess? “What exactly be you accusing me off, Gareth?” Tristan asked.
“Of lying to Seerah, to me, and to yourself. You may na’ wish to have feelings for her, but the mind can na’ always rule the heart. And I will na’ stand idly by and let you hurt her."
“You believe I would hurt her!"
“Purposely? No. But ... Och! I know such accusations be a grave insult to you honor, Tristan.” Gareth shook his head almost regretfully. “I have no proof to justify me concerns, just a feeling. I also have no liking for the way you treat her. ‘Tis the cause of the tension between us now. This also distresses me greatly because I have sworn me fealty to you."
Not knowing what to think, Tristan studied Gareth for a long, silent moment. Gareth had denied being attracted to Seerah, almost to the point of looking physically nauseated by the thought. And he had admitted feeling the need to protect her, from Tristan. There was also Gareth's knowledge of the kiss. None of it made any sense. Neither did Tristan's conflicting feelings about Seerah. Aye, the sooner I'm rid of her, the better. “Do na’ agonize over this,” Tristan said. “I know well where your loyalties lie. As do you."
Gareth nodded. “'Tis been a trying journey,” he said.
“Indeed.” Tristan clapped his hand on Gareth's shoulder. “And, though I do na’ understand how you could possibly know, I will na’ lie to you. I did kiss Seerah, back in the moor. I had me reasons, but I realize ‘twas a grave mistake. One I will na’ make again. However, until we reach Gairloch, ‘tis me duty, alone, to see her safely to our laird. Remember this, and all will be well."
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