Collier was dubious about Aksel's idea to travel to the garrison by the border. The old man was positive they'd make plenty of money and perhaps impress a few high ranking officers, and who didn't need cheering up at a military station. Collier could see his point, as spending weeks and even years in a place prime for an enemy ambush must be tough on the nerves. At first he was worried for his own safety, but as he and Aksel entered the garrison he saw women and even some children around. Certainly it wasn't as dangerous as he thought if such innocent souls were nearby. Besides, women and children were the best audience. They were generous in their payments and easily amused.

Fen decided he didn't like the smell of so many humans, or the clanking of so much armor, so he kept to the woods. Collier hoped he would be all right and not kill anyone's chickens. He wasn't sure how long they would stay in the garrison; it all depended on their success. For all he knew no one's mood needed lifting, or wanted it. Some people glanced at them in curiosity, and Collier was surprised to see so many young soldiers. Some couldn't have been much older than he was. Would he find himself trussed up in armor someday soon?

"Coal, here," Aksel grunted, stopping by a building of indeterminable purpose. Many of the structures looked the same to Collier, though some were obviously more militaristic than others. This garrison lacked the charm of an established town.

Aksel dropped his pack with a long sigh. His spine popped when he stretched out his back, and Collier winced to hear it. "So, what should we do?" Aksel said as he plopped down on a bench. "Sing?"

"You're in no fit state to be singing," Collier said. He dropped his pack next to Aksel and pulled out a handful of beanbags. "I can juggle."

"Y'need music for that," Aksel protested.

"No I don't, just rest," Collier gently chided. "I'll tell jokes." He found an empty and overturned bucket and dragged it a few paces away from Aksel, then stood on it. It hardly gave him much height to stand out from a crowd, so he used it to show off his balance. He pinned his right foot against his left thigh and began to juggle, starting simple with only three beanbags. People nearby began to watch him, and he began to add balls to his routine. By the time he reached seven beanbags, a small crowd had gathered, cooing at his juggling and visibly impressed whenever he added another beanbag.

He launched into a simple joke after reaching eight balls. "A jealous husband followed his wife to confession. When the priest would lead her behind the altar to be disciplined by beating, the husband, perceiving it and doubting the worst, said to the priest, 'Hear ye, master parson, I pray you let me be disciplined for her.' As he knelt before the priest, the wife spoke. 'I pray you,' she told the priest, 'strike him hard, for I am a great sinner.'"

The gathered people laughed, which put a pleased smile on Collier's face. He continued tossing the beanbags and began to think of the next joke to tell, when he suddenly realized he was only tossing seven balls instead of eight. He knew he hadn't dropped one. His eyes were focused on the audience, and he finally noticed their expressions had changed. They weren't happy anymore.

"Coal," Aksel said behind him.

Collier looked back and finally noticed two armored men standing beside him. One of them held the missing beanbag, staring at it suspiciously. The other was glaring. Collier smiled congenially, never breaking his juggling stride. "You don't like that joke?" he asked.

One of the men kicked the bucket he was standing on and Collier tumbled to the ground.

It had been a hard day for Elsie, after the previous night she was still uncomfortable around the mass of new soldiers. The previous night had led to Elsie near being raped by some new recruit. When she was around her male companions, whom she had known ever since arriving at the garrison, she felt uncomfortable and tended not to stay in their company as long as she previously had. It was just a hard day, and she kept herself busy to keep it out of her mind. Teagan had kept her busy as well. The cook probably knew Elsie needed to be kept busy to keep it from her mind. It was rather interesting as Teagan seemed to keep a close eye on her every moment of the day and did not let her go out alone. Anne would accompany her, if water from the stream was needed. Anne was quiet when they travelled out during the day, she barely spoke.

It was annoying. Anne had disliked Elsie from the word “go”. Elsie had no idea why. Once again Elsie and Anne were carrying pails of water back to the kitchen. Anne pointed out a commotion and suggested that they go see what it was about. It was the first words Anne had spoken to her on that trip and it lightened Elsie’s mood a little. Well, at least she knew Anne could put her feelings aside for a moment and speak out. They turned towards the gathering to see a young boy entertaining the crowd. He must only be, say 13. He stood on top of a pail, juggling and speaking to the audience attempting to make them laugh. Some did.

Elsie’s eyes caught onto two men whom stood beside the boy, one reached out and grasped one of the bags the boy was juggling. Elsie knew the two soldiers, they had been a few of the first to turn up after the King’s announcement. She did not have a soft disposition for them either. They were somewhat bothersome and seemed to be trouble makers. They enjoyed being the main focus of attention, once someone threatened that they were quick to stand and confront it. It was good in a way, for warfare anyway but not to innocent children trying to make a coin or two to get by. Elsie herself had once performed in front of people to gain a coin for food. It had got her along way.

Suddenly the crowd went silent, and Elsie notice the young boy look at the two soldiers and say something. She did not hear it, however. Yet, she knew from the look of both soldiers that this boy was in some trouble. But, what for? One of the soldiers she knew to be ‘Red’ kicked the pail out form beneath the boy, the kid tumbling down to the ground with a thump. That was when Elsie decided to intervene. She could taste anger rising inside, not only from beating down the innocent but also from the circumstances of the past night.

She told Anne to mind one bucket, the other she carried. Water could be used very well to place sense into some people. Just as Red was about to spit on the boy, Elsie placed herself between the two. She had pushed through the crowd as quickly as she could. Her hand reached out to help the boy out, and she was aware that many sets of eyes were upon her. Red grasped her arm, and before the boy could take her outstretched hand she was pulled around to face Red, his face only inches away from hers.

“Leave him alone Red. He is only a boy,” she hissed. Conscious that the soldiers grip on her arm was tightening. She glared at the man, and ripped her arm out of his grip as painful as it was. The sudden jerk had also pulled a muscle in her shoulder.

“Servant Elsie to the rescue is it?” Red chuckled maliciously, “We heard about last night. What are you going to do little whore get Thomas to come and lay a stick or two into us?” Both the men sniggered. Elsie picked up her pail and threw the water at them. Hitting two birds with one stone.

Collier and the beanbags lay sprawled on the ground. For a few moments he was disoriented from the sudden and unexpected fall. He wasn't entirely unaccustomed to people interrupting their show, but usually they just jeered or yelled out. There were only a handful of times anyone ended up using physical violence or any physical contact at all. When his eyes refocused he saw the man looming over him, apparently about to spit on him. He made sure his eyes and mouth was closed and decided to just wait.

“Leave him alone Red. He is only a boy,” she hissed.

He opened his eyes and blinked at the figure standing in front of him. A woman, some years older as far as he could tell, was confronting the man. Red? That was his name? He didn't even have red hair. Collier sarcastically guessed it had to do with his marvelously serene temperament.

However, grateful as he was that the woman had come to his rescue, he also knew it would only get worse. There were two men, and despite her bravery it probably wouldn't take much to subdue her. She appeared fiery, but that wasn't always a blessing in women. Especially women who stood up to very angry soldiers that got miffed at a juggling boy for no apparent reason. Perhaps they really didn't like his joke.

He took the chance during interactions between the woman and the men to stand and gather up his beanbags. It sounded like the woman knew the men and vice versa. But they didn't act like they were friends at all. Her name was Elsie? She was a servant?

He belatedly noticed the bucket of water in her hands and tilted his head in curiosity. What was she going to do with--oh.

The men were understandably irate. Dripping wet when they didn't want to be, bested by a servant girl. Some of the people in the crowd even sniggered. Collier wasn't surprised when Red reached out for the woman, his eyes twisted in loathing and anger. Things were getting worse, just as the boy had expected, and he didn't know what to do about it. He couldn't very well let this woman get beaten on his account. Why had she stepped in anyway? If she hadn't the man probably would have just spat on him and walked away.

Before the man reached her Collier stepped between them, holding up his flute and smiling brightly. "I take it jokes aren't to your liking!" he chirped. "Would a ballad do the trick? I hear music soothes the savage beast."

It was quite comical to see Red and his cohort standing there dripping wet, Elsie had to avoid laughing. She covered her mouth to hide her smile, but it was immediately obvious that it would be wiped clean off her face. Red grasped her again, his grip tighter then it had been before. They glared at each other as if there was no tomorrow. Their eyes matched wit against wit. How stimulating. A bead of water was about to drip from the edge of Red’s nose, just as the young boy intervened.

"I take it jokes aren't to your liking!" he chirped. "Would a ballad do the trick? I hear music soothes the savage beast."

Both Red and Elsie had stopped their starring competition just to look at the chirpy fellow. Red was steaming. He definitely had some anger management problems. Elsie took the moment to once again remove herself from Red’s grip. Her arm would be slightly bruised by the end of the day but that was not what Elsie was worried about. The little entertaining boy must have felt guilty or something to intervene especially when Elsie had angered Red so.

Red turned to look at Elsie, his face held obvious detest towards her. She knew she could push his buttons, and for some reason she was really not scared of what he would do to her. He seemed incapable of holding anything in his grasp for to long. He was readily distracted from things, just like a child. Perhaps he had missed out on some form of his childhood. Right to the core he was a bully. Yet, for him to torment others he must also have an insecurity about himself. He did not have much of a fighting ability, and he could be quite a suck up to those ranked within the army.

“Perhaps it is not the best time to begin entertaining,“ Elsie said keeping her gaze upon Red, but obviously aiming it at the lad, “Perhaps later tonight when the men have full stomachs and a good pint in their hands. They are working hard these days and the coin they have is little.”

When she paid Red a compliment he seemed to cool down. He wiped his face with his arm and grumbled something to his companion Mark, before Mark could actually reach the boy. Elsie had a look upon her, that he knew too well. Elsie held quite some weight against him, she had caught him and Anne at some things and with the look she gave him. He knew he should cool it, otherwise risk his reputation.

“Damn you slave girl!” he growled and backed away slowly, his eyes not leaving her for one bitter moment until he was around the corner. Backing away to a slave girl would surely put a mark on his reputation, but even Elsie knew he would not be willing to risk it all. The crowd seemed a little disappointed, a lot of them enjoyed brawls here and there. Slowly they began to scatter. Relief washed over her.

Men.

Collier fully expected Red to throttle him for intervening. The man did look like he wanted to tear something limb from limb, and surely a boy would be easily to shred than a woman. Of course, Collier had no intention of letting the man rip him to pieces and was preparing for a sprint out of the garrison. He could be very fast when he needed to. Unless the men jumped on horses, then he really was dead meat.

What was taking him so long? Red seemed to be contemplating something, and having a stare-down with the servant girl. What was going on?

“Perhaps it is not the best time to begin entertaining,“ Elsie said. “Perhaps later tonight when the men have full stomachs and a good pint in their hands. They are working hard these days and the coin they have is little.”

Collier frowned at her over his shoulder. While a full stomach did make people compliant and amiable, a mug of alcohol did not. If all it took to rile up sober soldiers was a joke, he hated to think what they'd do when intoxicated. Inebriated idiots did not a good audience make.

But what she said calmed Red and his companion. No fists thrown or blood spilled. They looked unhappier now than when they had first interrupted Collier's show. Red let out a spiteful exclamation as he slinked away. Collier let out a relieved sigh and turned to the crowd with a smile. To his horror they were starting to disperse! Collier grunted in disappointment and almost tried to call them back, but thought better on it. His rear was sore from the fall he'd taken, and Aksel still needed rest. Later they would be dressed up and ready to really perform.

There were no coins on the ground. He looked up at the woman with a grimace. "Appreciative as I am, I wish you hadn't done that. If all he was going to do was spit on me it wasn't worth the nuisance of your intervention." He leaned down and picked up the empty bucket he'd been using as a stand. It seemed to be broken, one side cracked. He was lucky Red hadn't kicked him.

Elsie watched the crowd leave. She knew it was not very good to have ones asset of money taken from them, but the boy did not know Red. Red was merciless, hardly anything stopped him from attacking anyone. Elsie was just lucky enough to hold something over him. However, there was a better chance Red would return and gloat against Elsie. He’d find something to snatch back the pride he had just lost now and that made Elsie slightly uneasy. He’d come back with something to hold over her head, and she was not looking forward to what that something would be. She watched Red leave, before turning to the child.

He must only be a few years less of her age, only just truly coming into manhood. Still, that gave Red no excuse to try and whip the kid senseless and give him stage-fright. The garrison was unapproachable enough as it was. It was highly unlikely gathering this kid was a performer that his self-esteem would be so badly shaken he would lay down the bags and run away with a tail between his legs. He had an innocent enough face, but still that would not stop people like Red from throwing around their brute.

Quite amazed at the way the boy confronted her, Elsie raised an eyebrow as she turned to face him. Knowing Anne’s eyes were glaring down at her back. Anne must have knew what Elsie would hold against Red, and eventually Anne’s annoying little habit of sticking her nose in would strike Elsie later in the kitchen. That didn’t worry her. Anne wasn’t worth the fuss.

"Appreciative as I am, I wish you hadn't done that. If all he was going to do was spit on me it wasn't worth the nuisance of your intervention." The entertainer said. He seemed pretty well capable of handling such situations by himself, he must have dealt with a few angry customers in his so far short performing life.

She looked at the bucket and felt a little sigh of annoyance towards Red and his companion rise within. Those two she could handle, until they gained more allies within the camp and eventually came for her. It was annoying how men constantly tried to intimidate others by throwing their power around like a bunch of un-predicted storms. Sure, they could wreak havoc and cause trouble, but still it was pointless.

“Believe me, if I supposed all he would have done was spit I wouldn’t have intervened,” she reached into a pocket in her gown and felt for a few items. They were still there, “There was still no reason for those two fools to shame you in front of the rest of the garrison. They are nothing but insecure cowards.”

She withdrew a couple of the items within her pocket and handed them to him, “For your troubles,” she said modestly, “Once the men are settled for the night and have had something to eat they will be a more audible audience. The kitchens are open to you as well, so do not hide away. I am sure the cook will spare some food for a night of entertainment which does not include us for once.”

(OOC: What are the items, exactly? Coins? I'll assume as much unless you tell me otherwise.)

“Believe me, if I supposed all he would have done was spit I wouldn’t have intervened.”

Collier frowned at that comment. It was probably true. The man might have tried to kick him after he'd fallen, but Collier knew he was fast enough to avoid most of the brunt. If the worst had come he would have just run away altogether. He wasn't proud enough to stand up to a couple of taunting soldiers for the sake of "bravery."

“There was still no reason for those two fools to shame you in front of the rest of the garrison. They are nothing but insecure cowards.”

He tossed the broken bucket toward Aksel's resting place. They could use the wood for a fire if they didn't find a place to stay that night. He turned back to Elsie with a smile. "Joke-telling just wasn't their entertainment of choice, I suppose," he said. "And being shamed is part of my job, otherwise some people don't laugh."

It was with no small amount of surprise that he looked at the hand she offered. There was money on her palm.

“For your troubles,” she said, “Once the men are settled for the night and have had something to eat they will be a more audible audience. The kitchens are open to you as well, so do not hide away. I am sure the cook will spare some food for a night of entertainment which does not include us for once.”

At first he wasn't sure if he should take the servant girl's gift, but she had caused a raucous, and money was money. He took the coins from her hand and grinned at her as he stowed them away in a bag on his belt. "Thank you for your compensation," he said, then took a step back to bow low from the waist. "I am Collier Falk, by the by."

He stood straight again and tilted his head. "Did you say that you provide entertainment as well?" One of his brows furrowed. "In what manner?"

(OOC: Yes. Sorry, I thought I had put in there that they were coins. I must have left it out. Sorry.)

Elsie smiled as the young boy bowed and introduced himself. No-one had ever bowed to her before, and that was quite captivating. She kept a gentle grin upon her own face, knowing that to even have an entertainer bow to a servant was indeed a great prize. Well, probably not the most ideal however it was still something you did not come across everyday. And something you did not come across everyday was rare, and rarity was royal.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Collier Falk,” she titled her head in modesty, “I am Elsie Farraday. As for the service a provide, it is not much entertainment then cooking and being something for the men to gawk at. However, I did entertain when I was a little girl. A very little girl.”

It was true, she had entertained with dancing and singing when she was little and needed to earn a few coins to get her food and places., She was quite lucky, for there was always someone that passed by whom was never short of coin and tossed her a piece or two. For a few short years that got her somewhere, until she was of a proper age to begin work as a servant. A fools job. If anything, it was a life line and without it she probably would be starving for weeks at a time and live in the same tattered rags for a few months. Patching it up even worse then she did now.

Elsie looked around noticing a few people were looking their way with a little interest. The boy and his companion would get a good deal this evening. If things went better then they had this past morning, well, they might end up with a few extra coins to spend on themselves. She did not doubt that Red would return, with possibly a grouchy ego. He’d eventually get that testosterone back and it would personally be aimed at Elsie. If he couldn’t touch her, he’d harm things that she was close too. Even if that meant this kid in whom she had stood up for, she hadn’t really thought of it. However, she doubted that he would ruin his reputation by beating up a kid to get back at a servant girl.

"As for the service a provide, it is not much entertainment then cooking and being something for the men to gawk at. However, I did entertain when I was a little girl. A very little girl."

That was what Collier expected to hear. It was one of the only ways women could really "entertain," especially in a place like this. She probably wasn't a whore, but Collier couldn't be sure. There were actually quite a few women in the fort and any number of them could be whores or servants. There wasn't exactly a uniform as far as he could tell. The garrisons were different from towns. It was like things were done in secret, and people were so unhappy. Collier preferred towns infinitely more.

He smiled anyway. "Then perhaps you could assist us! I'm sure a lovely dancing girl would attract more customers at a place like this than me. But I suppose that depends on one's preference."

He glanced over his shoulder at Aksel. The old man was watching the both of them, but he gave his stomach a pat. Collier nodded and turned his grinning face back to Elsie. "Do you know of any place where we might rest and replenish? We've traveled a far distance in the last couple of days, and stale bread and dried meat can only be appetizing for so long."

It had been a pretty confronting day. Not like the usual routine she was use to. However change was change, and no matter how hard one tried to stop it from changing it would. Such is life. She had practically thrown into the atmosphere that she was a whore, where she truly wasn’t. She would never allow her body to a stranger, and she would not sell the joys for money. No matter how much it cost her. She ran her hand to the back of her neck and massaged it for a moment, a small kink had been brewing in it all afternoon and she was just waiting for the opportunity to smooth it out, and be out of the discomfort.

She smiled at Collier’s suggestion about herself joining their little entourage and performing. However, for so long she had been out of the business and had only been active in it when she wanted or needed too. She feared that if she was to be an entertainer all the joy n dancing and singing would leave her, she’d much rather leave her traits for another day, when she may truly need them. For now she had a fair paying job and a good lodging. That was all she truly asked for. Some food and a roof over her head, everything else could come and go as it liked. Life was meant to be enjoyed, not stressed over.

“It is a pleasing invitation Collier,” she replied to his idea of her joining them, “However, for the time I will refuse. I have no fondness in performing for a living anymore. I did my share of it. Now, I am quite content with what I have.”

She watched the boy glance over his shoulder at an elder man, and she began to wonder whether there was any relation between them. It was lucky if they were related- they’d have to be quite a tight-knot family if that was the case. A lot of families barely lived with one another. Once the children were able to provide for themselves, they were out of there. Off to create their own life. However, still suspicion drove her to the opposite of the boy and elder chap being related. No reason behind, just mere curiosity.

“Ah, a place to rest,” she smiled. Anne came up to Elsie handing her the bucket of water and stomping off. Obviously she was not in the mood to wait for Elsie, even after specific orders. But it was up to her. If she wanted the wooden spoon up her rear end then so be it. It fazed Elsie not at all. She turned her attention back to Collier.

“There is a room behind the Kitchens reserved for entertainers I believe. You two may stay there for a while if you wish. As always the kitchens are opened to anyone inhabiting the garrison. However, if either of you do not wish to be bullied and shoved around by pitiless soldiers then go to the side door and say Elsie told you, you could order food from there.”

It was rarely that she did this. She barely ever offered anyone the service of her name when it came to ordering food, but for some reason she simply handed the “key” to getting easy and almost free food without hassle, to them. Perhaps she understood from the boys point of how weary and hungry a travelling entertainer could be. Not that Elsie travelled much in her entertaining days, but for a small child Lawley was quite a hectic maze to get around.

“However, for the time I will refuse. I have no fondness in performing for a living anymore. I did my share of it. Now, I am quite content with what I have.”

Collier nodded with a smile of understanding. Entertaining didn't tend to be fun if one's life depended on it. There were times he felt the strain and pressure and didn't want to perform at all. These occasions were rare, as he and Aksel usually did pretty well for themselves. Sometimes Aksel wasn't able to perform at all, and Collier became the sole deciding factor on whether or not they went to sleep hungry that day. For the most part, however, it was fun, and it was easier living in Thiasa.

He blinked at the grumpy girl that came up to Elsie and shoved a bucket of water into her arms. She left without a word too, and Collier wondered what had caused that reaction. Wasn't she hovering around them when those guards had acted up too? He guessed she was another servant.

“There is a room behind the Kitchens reserved for entertainers I believe. You two may stay there for a while if you wish. As always the kitchens are opened to anyone inhabiting the garrison. However, if either of you do not wish to be bullied and shoved around by pitiless soldiers then go to the side door and say Elsie told you, you could order food from there.”

Collier's eyes widened with hopeful anticipation at the word "room." Living in the wilderness could be fun and adventurous and all that, but Collier always relished a mattress when he could get one. "When you mean room, do you mean a room to sleep in? With a bed? And food! Fresh food, prepared by someone else...." His eyes took on a distant gaze. "It's been a long time...."

After a moment he snapped back to the present and let out an embarrassed chuckle. "Heh...well, where are the kitchens? Could you lead us there, or to the safe side door you mentioned?" He looked at the water bucket in her hands and raised a brow. "Unless you have chores to take care of. Your friend didn't look happy."

Elsie laughed, not out of mocking but in the way Collier reacted to the fact that there was a room where entertainers might retire, until they left. However, it was one simple room and if further entertainers travelled to the garrison, it meant the room must either be shared or they take part in living under the stars. It wasn’t the most pleasant place, but it was close to the kitchen and near the furnace so it was warm, as long as the furnace was stacked a plenty and there was two beds with some old mattresses. They weren’t ideally comfortable, but they were something.

She could see the dreaming in Collier’s expression, and she knew what it had been like to finally have something better. Something to cherish until the next one came along. At least one small happiness had kept her going, until the next. It was like a fuel- burning to keep them going. A piece of wood that was licked with flames to keep the heat in a compacted room or cook food. But, even they could run short. In the darkness they could secure you, and make you search for happiness once again. Because there is hope.

With a spare hand, she placed it on Collier’s shoulder to re-confirm what she had said, “There is a room,” she smiled enthusiastically, “Where you can sleep, on a bed and fresh food prepared by another.”

She could see the delight rising in the boys eyes, when he looked at her and asked to where the kitchens were she knew that it was possible they were staring and couldn’t wait for a good cooked meal. Elsie was not sure when they had last ate, so it was perhaps best if they ate in small amounts. However, fresh, cooked, and prepared by another type of food would always be welcome by the hard worker. No matter how small it was, or how little. It was something.

She watched Anne stomp off after Collier had drawn her attention to her, “Oh, never mind Anne. She is a faultfinder. There is not one thing anyone can do to make that one smile like she has seen a rainbow,” with a cheeky smile Elsie added, “It is funny to see her reactions sometimes. She will get so grumpy that she will be even more clumsier then what I am,” with a wink, “That is saying something.”

Elsie removed her hand from his shoulder and looked at his companion and guessed them to follow, “I have good excuses these days, to take awhile doing my chores. I am sure the cook will not mind if I am humbly offering food to those perhaps giving us a night off.”

She picked up the empty bucket as well as the full one and began moving on her way. The Kitchen was past a few rows of tents, and up a small winding track. Not to far, but a decent walk carrying buckets of water. Sometimes it could be agony if you filled the buckets up to much. She stopped and waited just a few strides ahead, realising she hadn’t given them, much time to grasp hold of the situation and prepare to move to a room where they could stay as long as they needed. It appeared the older man was weary and weak, he might need a good brew to help ease any joint pain. In which Elsie would make sure she got around too. She was quite fond of healing and herbs. However her knowledge in the area was not the finest. It was simply basic and only learned from word of mouth, or personal experience.

“There is a room,” she smiled, “Where you can sleep, on a bed and fresh food prepared by another.”

"That's great!" Collier chirped. He looked over his shoulder at Aksel and grinned. The old man lifted his head and then hauled himself to his feet. Collier ambled over to help him gather their supplies. After the short respite from the weight of his pack it was almost agony to pull it on again. But it wouldn't be far before he could keep it off for a good few hours, maybe even a couple of days if they did well. He listened to Elsie as she spoke about her friend, grinning at the description.

Once everything was packed up again, Collier turned to face Elsie and grunted at the weight on his back. He hoped he wouldn't have an awful back in a few years. He and Aksel had been traveling for years, but it was only recently that Collier began to take the bigger load. Aksel just couldn't handle it anymore, but Collier wasn't as strong as the old man used to be. It was almost like two old men traveling together. Collier couldn't wait until he was older and stronger.

Elsie moved off and began walking away, and Collier trudged on behind her. He glanced over his shoulder now and then to check on Aksel and make sure the old man was following. He was plodding along at a brisk pace, and didn't look uncomfortable at all with the movement. Collier guessed the little rest they'd taken had lifted the old man's spirits. He looked eagerly about the town, surely thinking of the best story to tell that evening at their performance. Collier smiled before turning back to listen to Elsie.

“I have good excuses these days, to take awhile doing my chores. I am sure the cook will not mind if I am humbly offering food to those perhaps giving us a night off.”

Collier looked up in slight concern. "If anyone gives you grief about what happened today, send them to me, all right? You helped us tremendously; you shouldn't be punished for that."

Elsie watched both the old and the young. It was extraordinary how people kept battling life, as they went by. No matter what it took, no matter how much pain could come from it. They went on. She kept a nice and familiar smile upon her face, welcoming them both in her company. Not many children came around the garrison, however in the last few days a score of them had come to farewell their male counterparts until they were no longer needed, or until death took them.

She turned and kept at an easy pace, for both the boy and elder companion could soldier on with. They had been travelling for who knew how long, and had only just arrived, it was only fair that they were given a few hours to rest before performing. It did not help much when you knew you were out of pocket, and still needed rest. However, from experience Elsie knew that performing when one was exhausted was truly not good. It ruined the performance, which meant lack of coin.

She turned and gazed at Collier’s face, carried on it was slight concern as a few words tumbled from his mouth,"If anyone gives you grief about what happened today, send them to me, all right? You helped us tremendously; you shouldn't be punished for that." She laughed with a nice tone, and shook her head. Her eyes catching at the ground for a few moments before they turned to the boy’s young face. Why was it that she was perhaps the youngest in the garrison, but now felt completely and entirely old? She began to pity the older people, and realised why they complained about her youthfulness. Her absentmindedness. It was humorous.

”If I was to send them to you, Collier,” she said gently and looked at the older man, for a second longer before returning her bright green eyes back to Collier with a studied look. She kept her stride calm and collected, and even to keep conversation well and true- so it was not hard to communicate between the noises around the garrison, “I would be defeating the very purpose of what I stood up for today.”

The water in the bucket sloshed around gracefully, not as jerky as Anne’s had- which had splashed around everywhere, leaving quite a humble trail of mud that the fellowship followed. The noises- oh the noises! The blacksmith belting horse shoes into place, the laughs and jeers of the soldiers drinking and playing games. The sound of orders, and working horses. Of sparring and combat. It all bleated in ones head, as if there was no where to get any quiet. Like there was no such thing. The problem was, the worst still hadn’t come. More and more people were arriving by the day, which meant the noise would only grow louder furthermore.

How had she survived this? Oh-yes. The need to survive- the main essence that kept them living. Money.

”If I was to send them to you, Collier,” she said gently, “I would be defeating the very purpose of what I stood up for today.”

Collier stared at her for a moment, then turned to look at the street and the people around. "I suppose that makes sense. Though standing up to that man is different than standing up to some old kitchen ladies." He chuckled and readjusted the pack on his back. "Or whoever tells you what to do. I don't imagine it's hotheaded guardsmen, though."

He glanced around the garrison again. Some people looked at him, but most were busy doing their own work. Collier had wondered before what he might be doing if he wasn't a minstrel. Perhaps farming. His parents had been farmers (when his father wasn't raiding) and Aksel's family had also been farmers. Collier didn't think he had the knack for farming though. It was extremely hard work and unless you had a big family to help you, you'd be exhausted at the end of every day. No time for fun at all. Sometimes he was amazed the population managed to increase despite the exhaustion.

"What kind of entertainment might you be looking forward to, Elsie?" he asked, turning a smiling face toward her. "Or what do you think most people would like to see?"

Company was a mighty gold gift. Elsie had never been much of a lone wolf, she was part of the pack. However one of the exclusive and irreplaceable ones. She was reckless, wild and stubborn but it coincided with her playful nature and ability to adapt quickly to any situation. She was gentle and caring as well, which made her even more childish. Around adults that was. Nevertheless, when she was around children or people younger then her, she attempted to set a good example and prove that she was capable of being mature and adult like.

She kept to herself for a few minutes focusing her strength on the pail of water. It wasn’t really heavy, she usually carried two filled pails up a hill over five times a day. However, this one seemed to weigh a lot more then she expected. Elsie was not a complainer though. Never was, and never would be. Complaining was just plain rude. Most people had to make a living by doing a lot more then carrying water up a hill all day. A lot of it was back killing.

"Or whoever tells you what to do. I don't imagine it's hotheaded guardsmen, though."

Elsie chuckled, and kept the warm grin upon her face, as she made a turn around a tent ignoring looks and the occasional whistle. It still made her edgy, knowing there were people watching her. Men for that matter, scary-creepy men. For quite a time, Elsie had been at ease and had come to love this place as one would love a sanctuary. However now, it was just getting ridiculous. She used to be able to trust people. TRUST. She used to be able to walk around in the dark alone. It had changed so quickly, as soon as this war had come into effect, well… it had stuffed up a lot. “You’d be surprised to see how many people attempt to order me around. It used to be fun, a lot of the men only did it in jest and I was quite comfortable. Now these days, I am never alone and I cannot trust any man in this camp- all because of this darn conscription and war. The men would be better off at home with their own women and children and worrying about their lands, rather then a pesky line that the so called King has drawn across the place.”

Elsie just realised how much she had carried on about the subject of more men arriving in the camp each day to fill the army quota. It was not usually like her to be so angry, but the last few days had given her little sleep, little rest and zero tolerance for anything that troubled her. She shook it off quickly and apologised. Happy when Collier asked her what she would be interested in watching this evening, or rather most of the garrison.

“Hmmm, good question. Now, what would I enjoy to watch this evening?” It crossed her mind, that she might not actually be present to watch the entertainers, her duties might land her elsewhere, or she may take the chance to get a good night sleep. If that was even possible, in this almost unjust world, “I enjoy entertainment, I always have. I have not be so privileged to be an audience to it very often. However, on behalf of them men in the garrison I’d say that anything in the form of comedy- other then jokes,” she winked at Collier. Knowing that he would probably understand that she was hinting to the obvious events which had just passed.

They were coming up to a building now. It was not as elegant as most, but it was fine enough to keep the weather out. “One moment,” she stated and headed off to an open door. She vanished inside it rather quickly and it only took her a few moments to return. She came out the door backwards nodding to someone in the kitchen. A sweet aroma filling the air. Fresh bread. Once she had stopped arguing with one of the kitchen hands about something Anne had literally lied about she turned her attention back to Collier and the old man. Signalling for them to follow her around to the room where they could stay. It was only a couple of meters away, and was easy to access- which would probably be best for the old man.

Elsie brushed a strand of hair from her face and opened the door. It hadn’t been inhabited for a few days, so there was no fire going, no candle light. However the two beds were made, and a small window allowed natural light to enter. “Well it isn’t much. But I’d say it is better then the road,” she said waiting for them to enter.

“Now these days, I am never alone and I cannot trust any man in this camp- all because of this darn conscription and war. The men would be better off at home with their own women and children and worrying about their lands, rather then a pesky line that the so called King has drawn across the place.”

The tiny tirade seemed to come out of the blue to Collier, and he looked at Elsie's face to read her expression. She seemed genuinely upset about everything, though he couldn't blame her. If every day was like that encounter with "Red" then such a thing would get old really fast. At least Collier and Aksel could leave whenever they wanted. Elsie was stuck there, and it was a dangerous place. Collier wasn't a native Thiasan and had no real attachment to the place, so he didn't feel like he could pass judgment on the king. He was glad for the climate and the people seemed nice enough, but the threat of war was taking an obvious toll. Why couldn't the Thiasans and the barbarians just talk? Or sing or tell jokes...Those things always lightened the mood.

“I enjoy entertainment, I always have. I have not be so privileged to be an audience to it very often. However, on behalf of them men in the garrison I’d say that anything in the form of comedy- other then jokes."

Collier laughed a little. "That joke is good! It's not my fault whatsisface doesn't have a decent sense of humor. But all the same I'll stay away from such things tonight. We'll probably tell a story or do a ballad or something. A great epic of adventure for the soldiers, perhaps with a sad ending to keep them relatively sobered."

"They'll probably want a happy ending," Aksel interrupted on Collier's other side. "Bleak place like this, I wouldn't blame them for wanting something so trite."

Collier would have responded but they had finally reached their destination. There was a slight delay as Elsie went in and announced their presence (or that's what Collier thought she was doing). Soon she returned and ushered them to their new abode. It wasn't much, but it was still more than enough for the travelers. Collier let out a happy coo when he saw the beds. And two of them! He wouldn't have to share with Aksel.

“...I’d say it is better then the road,” she said.

"No kidding!" Collier chirped, wobbling over and dropping his heavy backpack on the bed. He let out a relieved sigh and stretched out his back. Aksel ambled in and deposited his burden with less flourish.

"This is practically a manor compared to what we're used to," Collier said, flashing a grin at Elsie as he turned to unload the musical instruments. "What time should we perform? When do you usually have dinner?"

Elsie took a step in after them, her eyes watching them drop their belongings. The ground vibrating with a thud demonstrating just how heavy their packs were. No doubt, their packs were their lives and carried every inch of necessity and valuable item that gave their lives meaning. It was a hard life, but there was no obligation or responsibility to it. You were just as free as a bird, except when food or clothing materials were needed. The surrounding lands could provide food for the adamant hunter, however entertainers were not hunters. They needed as much coin as they could to get them by.

She kept a smile pinned to her face, as she moved over to the small hole in the ground, where a fire could be started to keep the room warm. Generally, if the furnace was going next door they would not need a fire. However, cold nights were ahead and it would perhaps be best to have a fire going just in case the furnace did not go all night long. The early mornings especially, can be quite cold. She looked around the room for a woven basket which would contain kindling to get a fire started. It was usually her job, if she was first in the kitchens to start the furnace for the day.

She couldn’t help but remark at how Collier reacted, but she guessed it had been quite some time since he had been able to have his own bed, equipped with a mattress. She located the basket, and began to prepare the pit with the kindling to begin the fire. As she did, she came to answer Collier’s question, “Dinner will be a few hours yet, perhaps an hour after dinner begins, you can start to prepare. Round about twilight,” she smiled amiably, “By then, everyone should have full stomachs and be fairly content. You will hear the noise when dinner is being served.”

Finally she had the kindling all set out, she would return with a stick that had already been lit, just for the purpose of it being easier. It would also give her some time to brew some brews to help Askel relax, and feel a little bit better after travelling. Possibly give him a top-up of strength. She knew she was not obligated to do so, nor that many did not intend to accept charity. But she knew if she was in the position she would be highly grateful for strength. Being sick for her, was torture.

Collier would use some food to, especially before they performed. You can only work well if you have a full stomach. Which she once again supposed they might not have done in quite a long time. She stood up and dusted her hands on her apron, not fowling her green gown, and took a deep breath, “Now, I suggest the both of you rest a little,” she turned and walked over to Askel, helping him place some blankets over the mattress, “Unless you’d prefer to set yourselves up, which I am quite happy to oblige my aid. In any case, I will get you something to eat before you perform also.”

“Dinner will be a few hours yet, perhaps an hour after dinner begins, you can start to prepare. Round about twilight,” she smiled amiably, “By then, everyone should have full stomachs and be fairly content. You will hear the noise when dinner is being served."

"Guess we will," Collier said, shuffling through his pack and pulling out instruments. They were so close to the kitchens they could probably hear dinner being made, but he didn't mind. A roof was a roof, and food was food. Didn't matter who provided it as long as both were adequate (and not poisoned in the case of food). He placed their flutes and guitar at the edge of the bed and then pulled out his performing clothes. He gave them a vigorous shake to get out the wrinkles and dirt.

He turned and watched Elsie as she got a fire going. He felt it was a little too hot for a fire, and the room would quickly become stifling, but he didn't say anything. Maybe she felt it was cold. He was used to much more extreme frigid temperatures. Plus they wouldn't have to worry about starting a fire later if they needed one.

“Now, I suggest the both of you rest a little,” she turned. “Unless you’d prefer to set yourselves up, which I am quite happy to oblige my aid. In any case, I will get you something to eat before you perform also.”

Aksel said nothing as Elsie helped him make the bed. Collier placed his backpack on the ground and sat on the bed, bringing up a foot to rub.

"It doesn't take us long to prepare," he said with a grin. "It's not like we have a complicated set or anything. Just us, maybe a stool for the musician to sit on. That's it." He dropped both his shoes on the ground and wiggled his toes.

"But food sounds good," he chirped. "Food sounds very good, right bestefar?"

Aksel grunted in agreement and sat down on his bed, slipping his shoes off as well. "Drink too," he said.

Collier glanced at Elsie and hoped Aksel's blunt request didn't put her off. Sometimes the old man seemed aloof and rude, but that was just how he was. He only managed to be charming during performances, and off stage it was Collier who dealt with people most of the time. But he was the one better versed in Scalian anyway, and didn't have a thick Northern accent like Aksel did.

"If it's not too much trouble," he added with an apologetic smile.

Elsie made sure that her bed making skills were up to scratch and had the bed prepared within a few minutes. She turned to see the instruments Collier had unpacked. She had never been fortunate to learn the way of such interesting objects, however she had made do with what she could. Her only musical talent being her voice. Yet, even lately it tended to be a bit on the rough sides.

Well, you couldn’t always have the sun shinning your way.

She picked up a few random twigs that lay here and there, obviously someone had not done much of a good job cleaning last time they had stayed. It seemed a little slack for the least they could do was tidy their mess in exchange for free board. Oh well, the past was the past. What was done was done and it couldn’t be changed. No matter how hard one wished.

The old man finally took the liberty of settling down onto the bed with a mere grumble. A sign of stress? Fatigue? What there lives were like Elsie had not a clue, it was none of her business either. But still there was some pity in the air, a pity that all entertainers tended to share. Collier seemed the brightest of the two, the one who was friendly and strong. However Askel was no doubt the grumpy old man stereotype, yet some how hid his true character beneath a rough exterior. It would definitely take a great deal of another to discover it.

“Well,” she said to the old man with a touch of maturity, “You can have a drink later tonight. However I will mix up a brew for you which will make you feel more at ease. As for the food, I cannot promise a luxury banquet, however I am sure that we have few pastries and scones in the kitchen that would not be missed and will fill the ache in the stomach until supper has been prepared.”

Elsie took a deep breath. She could tell the room was quite warm, but that was only because the furnace was going next door. The moment it was put out, this room would begin to freeze. Knowing that elderly people were weakened somewhat by the cold, Elsie had no intention of bringing that about, “Is there anything else that I may be able to supply you with?”

“Well,” she said. “You can have a drink later tonight. However I will mix up a brew for you which will make you feel more at ease."

Aksel didn't look happy at all at that comment. He frowned darkly and muttered something in his native language and Collier barely managed to keep his eyes from rolling. He quickly spoke up to but the strange-sounding words out of the air.

"Such a thing would be most kind of you," he said, stepping between Aksel and Elsie. "I'm no physician, so I can't do anything for my grandfather's aches. Thank you very much."

"As for the food, I cannot promise a luxury banquet, however I am sure that we have few pastries and scones in the kitchen that would not be missed and will fill the ache in the stomach until supper has been prepared.”

"That sounds wonderful," Collier said, bowing from the waist. "You've done more for us than most, Elsie. I only hope our performance this evening will be enough to compensate for it." He stood straight again and smiled at her. "And if it's not, feel free to ask us to help around the kitchens or with other chores."

Elsie watched the old man mutter to himself about not being able to have a drink until later. Although it was in quite a different language she suspected that was what he was on about. She was willing to tell him to grow up and that a lousy pike would not cure his aches and pains, it would only turn the most gentle man into a complete raving lunatic. However Collier must have noticed the tension straying between them and he stepped in.

She was grateful for that. She really couldn’t stand people who wouldn’t simply look for the sun on a rainy day. They just right ticked her off. She could pass it by simply saying the man had been on the road for awhile and was tired, like many would be. So, that was what she would do. Once she got a tonic into him he would be thanking her.

She smiled at Collier, who was as thankful as anything. The appreciation could be seen in his eyes, and that brightened her mood more. Perhaps she would teach Collier how to brew up the tonic to help his grandfather. That way he would not have to put up with the moods the old man seemed to speed through. The ingredients were all natural, so it wouldn’t cost them anything. They would just need a good eye to spot the ingredients along the trail, “Collier, it is my duty to see that the both of you are comfortable. I would not have either of you doing chores if it killed me. Give me a moment or two and I will be back with some comforts.”

She glanced at the old man for a second, before turning to the door with a firm smile at Collier, “I’ll be back.” She closed the door behind her and set off. Now she had only to gather some food for the two entertainers, and search through the herb stash for the ingredients to the tonic. Her steps were quick and long and she reached the kitchen without a greedy eye falling upon her. When she was in the Kitchen she slowly manoeuvrer herself to a basket, and began filling it with small things. Things tat would hardly be missed but would mean a lot to both entertainers. Hopefully.

It was a short time before she returned, and it was getting dark. She kept in the shadows keeping away from the looks of conscripted men. Her hand reached up and knocked on the door with a rhythmic beat, waiting for one of them to allow her in. She turned so that her back was to the door and her eyes were looking out making sure no-one would sneak up behind hrer.

“Collier, it is my duty to see that the both of you are comfortable. I would not have either of you doing chores if it killed me. Give me a moment or two and I will be back with some comforts."

Collier dipped his head in modesty and gratitude. "Thank you again." He smiled as Elsie left the room, then turned to scowl at Aksel once she'd left. The old man grinned.

"Bestefar, I wish you wouldn't be so surly to perfectly kind people," the boy grumbled. He sighed and turned to their instruments, picking up a guitar to make sure it was tuned correctly. "I also wish you wouldn't mutter in another language. People might become wary of us."

"Sludder," Aksel said, laughing as Collier rolled his eyes. "People have no reason to fear us. We don't even carry any weapons."

"Yes we do."

"Ja, but they don't know we do," Aksel grinned. "And I think that lass sees me as some feeble gubbe."

Collier glanced up from his tune plucking, looking at Aksel. He was an old man, but the boy didn't feel the need to say as much. Aksel knew his limits, and for the most part he was in very good shape. The traveling was what took it out of him, and the carrying of their bundles. Once they got a donkey things would be better, and they could move faster too.

He went back to the guitar. "Just don't be so ungrateful to Elsie. She's only being considerate."

A few moments later, their door opened, and Elsie had returned. Collier put on a smile for her and Aksel raised a brow in greeting. The boy noticed the secretive way Elsie moved and frowned. "Elsie? Is everything all right?"

Elsie turned around rather quickly as the door opened. She had a small curve to her lips, but not exactly enough to make out a smile. The loud jeers and petitions of men drinking were creating the musical atmosphere. In a few hours dinner would be served and hopefully it would be quiet for sometime. Twilight hours were generally the hours men attempted to lay back and relax after spending hours training. It was probably the most uncomfortable for the women.

“Hi,” Elsie finally spoke, attempting to keep her tone calm and collected. However that was not enough to show her hesitance towards answering Collier’s question and for a moment she stood firmly at the door, and inhaled in a deep breath. It was an uncomfortable few seconds, but she managed to grasp control of her mind and quickly answered, “Just the time of day. The shadows get a bit nerving.”

Idiot she taunted herself. She was over-reacting to everything. How stupid. The mind was a powerful thing, once it had been hurt it was probably hard to heal. She wasn’t really afraid of the dark, she wasn’t even afraid of the shadows. She wasn’t afraid of Red, she knew he was a coward. But when his pride had been damaged he could be fairly confronting. It was nothing she couldn’t handle. She threw away, well locked away all that was troubling her now. Pushed it to the back of her mind, hoping it wouldn’t return and hit her in the head more powerful then she had expected. She had watched another girl, a few months ago have a breakdown because she had fallen pregnant. Elsie loved life, and knew she would always try to keep hers peaceful and exciting.

“Do you mind if I come in?” she asked, placing a wide grin across her shaded face. She held up the basket she had curried and the sweet aroma of fresh bread and other pastries drifted into the small space between them, “I have luxuries in which the both of you may enjoy.”

((Sorry for the wait!))

“Just the time of day. The shadows get a bit nerving.”

Collier put on a small smile for her, but was frowning on the inside. Was it really so dangerous around the garrisons for women? It wasn't even completely dark outside. Plus, weren't soldiers supposed to protect people? Though, most of the men taking up the ranks weren't volunteers. Many were conscripted men, forced into service. There might not be a friendly one in the bunch.

"If you want an escort, I'd be happy to accompany you," he offered.

“Do you mind if I come in?” she asked. “I have luxuries in which the both of you may enjoy.”

"Yes!" Collier chirped, grinning at the basket of food. He took it from her and felt his stomach rumble at the sight of the victuals. "Thank you very much, Elsie. You're free to have some as well, if you like." He placed the basket on a little table between the beds and handled Aksel a piece of bread. He pulled out one for himself and eagerly bit into it. He smiled at Elsie. "Ish goo'! Didjoo mek dis?"

((No problem))

Elsie grinned at Collier’s offer. He was bold. But youths were generally bold, bold enough that they thought they were invincible. She had seen many young join the army expecting honour and eternal glory but it did not always turn out that way. Of course it took courage to sign up, but it didn’t take young men much. They were utterly full of whatever yielded them. Some made it through, and were given honour and glory, but those that didn’t. She almost pitied. Too young.

“Thanks Collier, I appreciate your offer very much,” she stepped into the room allowing the young lad to take the basket. She could see he was peckish enough, and the excitement of having food crawled over every contour of his face. She had been a lot like that, when she had first joined the kitchens. She had indulged in every scrap of food she was allowed, “However, I don’t think your companion would like the idea of you being an escort. Especially after the show today. I would not wish you to get hurt for some of my own folly.”

She watched as both young and old ate the food, happy she was able to provide some comfort for them. Food was always a friend to the weary traveller, and it was a good source of vital energy. She stood near the warmth of the fire, even though the room was pretty hot. Her arms embracing her body, and rubbing her arms to throw some heat into them.

She laughed as Collier tried to speak with his mouth full. Obviously he hadn’t been taught much etiquette when consuming food. But she did not mind. She wasn’t as regal as the royals and did not stick kindly to rules of presentation and such, herself. She nodded, “We work as a team in the kitchen. Everyone does an equal part on what results are in that basket.”

She moved over to the basket, she wasn’t hungry, but she took out some of the ingredients for the tonic. She made sure Collier could see them, before she looked at him, “I thought I’d teach you how to make a tonic to ease aches and pains. Would you like that much?”

“Thanks Collier, I appreciate your offer very much. However, I don’t think your companion would like the idea of you being an escort. I would not wish you to get hurt for some of my own folly.”

Aksel waved a listless hand. "Coal can take care of himself all right," he said. "Though a couple of grown soldiers primed for a fight would give anyone a hard time."

Especially a woman, Collier thought with some melancholy. The worst that might happen to him was a little beating, but women could be raped. Actually, he could be raped too, and he knew it, but if there were women around that were easily overtaken, a boy such as him would probably be something more like a last resort. He sat down on his bed as he munched on his food. Actually their last resort might be the goats....

He watched Elsie as she moved to the fire to rub her arms. Despite the heat, he was glad she had started the blaze. Its glow and steady crackling made him feel comfortable and secure. It said they were "home." He had no doubt that Elsie felt the same way, even if the garrisons were her home for the time being. At least Collier could leave. How long had Elsie been there?

“We work as a team in the kitchen. Everyone does an equal part on what results are in that basket.”

"In that case, please pass along our gratitude to your friends," he said with a smile. He glanced at Aksel and saw the man happily eating a biscuit and a leg of fowl. Yes, they were both very thankful.

“I thought I’d teach you how to make a tonic to ease aches and pains. Would you like that much?”

He looked down at the medicine she had brought and perked up in his seat. Aksel let out a grunt of discontent, but Collier ignored him entirely. "Yes, very much!" he peeped. "If it wouldn't be too much trouble. Can I drink it too? I mean, it's not something that only...people of a certain age can drink, is it?" He rubbed his lower back. "After traveling for hours carrying that pack, my muscles can be pretty sore despite my younger years."

Elsie nodded as the old man began talking. "Coal can take care of himself all right," She was happy to see his bitterness had slightly rubbed off and he was at ease with entering the conversation. It made her feel slightly more comfortable with being around them. She didn’t classify them as strangers, new acquaintances was perhaps a better term to place them under.

“I do not doubt that he could take care of himself- but if he was to attempt to take care of another with two soldiers on his back… I wouldn’t like his chances,” she looked at Collier with an apologetic expression, “No offence Collier. You have a good head on your shoulders and I am sure you’d be able to outsmart two of them by yourself. But if you were worried about another person- I believe it would numb your chances. I was just lucky to hold something over Red’s head today, and be able to threaten him with it.”

She watched the flames lick at the logs placed on the fire. The red flames seemed so full of hatred and anger that their heat seemed repulsive and barely tolerable. But their anger offered some comfort against the harsh cold weather that was yet to begin. How two strange things could work together, through a process similar to symbiosis was unexplainable.

"In that case, please pass along our gratitude to your friends," Collier had stated. Elsie nodded, “I will pass your compliments onto them. As I have said before, we are most grateful for entertainment matters taken from our hands. We would be happy to help you in any way we can.”

She looked at the ingredients she had so quickly gathered making sure she had everything that was needed. In a hurry one could easily forget or misplace items which are needed and it could always turn out to be a frustration- even later on. Misplacing things and forgetting where you had placed them was maddening but it definitely was testing your ability to handle those type of situations.

“Well, I don’t see why you couldn’t take this tonic. I don’t believe it will do you any harm. You just have to take it in moderation and in smaller proportions then what you would give to Askel,” she said ignoring the slightly grumpy outburst she heard from Askel’s bed, “You are young, and still healthy. It means the tonic will get to the pain faster then what it will in an older body such as Askel’s. But still, moderation is the key and not to overuse it. I don’t believe you get addicted to any ingredients in it, but I do believe if you use it more then you should your body will create a barrier against it and it will stop working.”

She pointed to a few types of herbs. She wasn’t quite sure of their names, but they were essential, “Now, I am not a healer. What I know is what I have been taught by older women or have simply been passed on through conversation. I know this tonic works amongst the soldiers, it can be used as a salve or it can be swallowed. It all depends on how finely you crush the ingredients,” she pulled out a herb with a small white flower and looked at Collier to make sure he was paying attention, “These are found everywhere, but they like to live amongst poison ivy and other plants that are not so fun to mess with. Anyhow, you will find all these items I have here along the roadside and they flourish all year round. I daresay you have come across similar plants in your travel-- but you were looking, just not seeing?”

Her eyes flashed towards Askel for a moment. He would have defiantly seen plants with similar qualities in these along his travels, surely. Elsie could walk out to a field-right now and pick them out, “However, beware because there are plants very similar in appearance to these but they are deadly. The best way to know is to break the stalk of the plant and see if any white sort of liquid-like milk leaks out from the wound. The white liquid is the poison.”

“I do not doubt that he could take care of himself- but if he was to attempt to take care of another with two soldiers on his back… I wouldn’t like his chances.”

"Neither would I," Collier said with a laugh. He waved the idea away as Elsie continued to speak of it. "No offense taken, Elsie. I know my limits. I don't like to fight people anyway, I'd rather entertain them."

He perked up as Elsie began talking about the tonic and the plants. Moderation of course. Aksel said nothing more and only continued to eat as Elsie explained what the medicine did and the plants needed for it. Collier paid very close attention and logged everything away in his mind. Since he couldn't read or write in Scalian he had to be very sure to have a sharp memory. Especially when it came to mixing plants into medicine, when just enough was all that was needed.

“Anyhow, you will find all these items I have here along the roadside and they flourish all year round. I daresay you have come across similar plants in your travel-- but you were looking, just not seeing?”

"I do recognize them," Collier replied. "Though I never knew the name. I know poison ivy though." He grimaced at the memory of running into that plant years ago. He was now very careful about what vegetation he walked through. "But yes, I've seen them here and there. Never knew for sure they could be used in medicine, but it's nice that they can."

He listened to the mention of the poisonous variety, then wondered if those white flower plants he'd seen were the helpful or harmful kind. There must have been other ways to tell them apart without breaking the stalk...Though maybe not, if this was how Elsie told the difference. Or at least it was a definite difference between them. Better to be completely sure than just almost sure.

"Good to know," he remarked. "How many ingredients does this tonic need?"

Elsie admired this young fellow. He seemed eager enough to learn and had quite a bright mind. Who knows what lengths he could take it too. She moved her hands away from the poisonous plant, and wiped them quickly-removing any trace of the white liquid that had befallen upon them from breaking the stem. She took a quick glance at Collier as he asked her a question. "How many ingredients does this tonic need?"

She pulled each plant apart, “Well, there are quite a few and each of them can be used individually or even in a mixture,” she smiled and picked up one plant. It had fern-like leaves and cluster of white flowers, “This is Yarrow. Everyone should be highly attuned with this plant because it vitalizes the blood and is esteemed for it’s ability to give pain relief,” she smiled patiently at the plant. For centuries now people had used it for pain relief, and for centuries it had never failed them, “You use the roots.”

She moved her hands over the variety of plants in front of them, choosing which one to explain next. Instead of showing Collier how-to make the tonic, she had decided to describe the use of each individual plants use, and why it was going to be added into the tonic. This way, he would have a better understanding and if he was to brew it for anyone else, he would understand and hopefully be able to explain it to others- therefore benefiting himself.

She chose another plant, “Western Skullcap- it is used to stop muscle spasms while also a herb that reduces stress. Wild Lettuce and Wild Yam are also plants used for pain relief and to help stop muscle spasms,” she showed him each plant carefully. Allowing him the knowledge to be able to tell them apart. She only knew these plants from what she had been told, but she knew of a lot of herbs and plants that also helped cure other such pains and illnesses-without knowing their names.

“Using all these plants, we will use some of the roots and some of the leaves and stems,” she removed one of her small knives from up her sleeve, “Safety precautions,” she smiled showing she did not mean any harm with it and slowly began to chop out the items they would need and wouldn’t. Then she separated them. She moved over to the basket and pulled out a bowl and spoon like device and returned, “After we have sorted out the parts needed and not needed we need to start brewing them. You can put them into the bowl and start crushing them if you like,” she handed him the bowl, “Just add a small spoon of water beforehand.”

Collier sat on the bed in rapt attention, leaning forward to listen. He repeated the name of each plant after Elsie explained them, logging them away in his memory. Many of the plants did look familiar, but he had never really known their names or what they could do. Aksel knew most of the plants in Norge and what they could do, but the climate in Thiasa resulted in several strange new species.

Leaves, roots, and stems...Plants certainly had many useful parts. Though some could be dangerous too. Like poison ivy. Damn poison ivy. Collier didn't react when Elsie pulled out a little knife, though he thought it interesting she had it hidden up her sleeve. Perhaps less chance of it getting stolen. Then she handed him something he recognized. A mortar and pestle.

“You can put them into the bowl and start crushing them if you like,” she handed him the bowl, “Just add a small spoon of water beforehand.”

"Ah, I've done this before," Collier chirped as he stood up to get some water. "It's been a few years, though. My grandmother would have me help her grind plants and grain and such." He dropped the water in the mortar and then placed the needed roots. It wasn't exactly possible to grind something the wrong way, so he picked up the pestle and just went at it. Eventually he found a rhythm and finished grinding the plant.

He held it up to Elsie with a grin. "Done! With that one anyway."

Elsie grinned noticing how eager Collier was to learn something new. It always surprised her how children were bright enough to pick up on everything. But Collier wasn’t much of a child anymore was he? He was quickly becoming a man. She watched him work with the roots, work them down into a powder sort state. It was hard work, and not very easy- especially with the toughest roots. Collier tackled it and found his rhythm. Within a few moments he had it done.

When he lifted it up to show her, her eyes ran towards the contents. Inspecting it. She put a finger to her lip- contemplating whether it was good enough. However it was all a pretence. She liked having people sitting on edge and wonder what her judgement might be.

“Nice work,” she smiled, “You’re a master at it already. I’m beginning to think you might run me out of a job.”

She took the bowl from him, and moved all the contents into another bowl that all the ingredients would finally be placed in and sat to boil. Life skills could not really be learnt by sitting at a table and reading a parchment. Reading skills would barely get anyone- anywhere unless they were of some noble class. It was better to go and tackle everything with your hands. If you knew how to heal wounds, tend to your clothes and work to get a few coins for food and a roof over your head- you’d have a pretty easy life.

How would a King or Queen do, if they lived but two days in the world they did? Not very well, Elsie would wager.

She placed a few more roots in the bowl, this time more then the first, “Ok. Do you want to do some more seeing as you are quite good at it?” she said with some flattery. She found that when people were admired by how well they worked, and were pointed out they’d work even better. Sometimes it made a weak worker- better. A good worker- even better.

“Nice work,” she smiled, “You’re a master at it already. I’m beginning to think you might run me out of a job.”

"Pah!" Collier scoffed. "No chance of that. I already have a job. Plus we won't be staying long." He glanced around Elsie to see how his grandfather was doing. Aksel had fallen into a doze. It was better than his griping and grumbling, at least. And they would need some rest before performing. Collier might have to take a little nap himself once this concoction was put together.

“Ok. Do you want to do some more seeing as you are quite good at it?”

He looked from his grandfather to Elsie and put on a smile. "I'll do whatever needs doing," he said. He took the bowl from her and began to grind the plant inside, pausing only for a moment to remember what it was. He flattened the plant in silence. "How did you learn about plants, Elsie? Did people here at the garrison teach you about it?"

"How did you learn about plants, Elsie? Did people here at the garrison teach you about it?"

Elsie looked up from the trance she was in as soon as Collier spoke. Her trances were brought on by over working or simply just the illusions of thought. She loved to day dream- she loved to chase the days of childhood rather then be the falsehood of a mature aged person. Sure, she was mature most of the time- but didn’t even adults miss the days of childhood?

“Well, you could say that the people here have taught me,” she shrugged, “I mean, I didn’t know much about healing before I came here- but it didn’t matter, I’d learn any how. It is a Garrison and there are wounded people all the time. From hearing the words the healer would say- I suppose I have learned. I knew basic things about plants, but not everything.”

It was true. She hadn’t known much about how plants could heal people until she arrived here. Her parent shad barely paid attention to her and her brothers when they were injured, but that was only because they were so overcome with exhaustion that taking care of more people was the last thing they wanted to do. So, they had pretty much been on there own. Wounds had been left untreated- but they weren’t life threatening. When she arrived at the Garrison, that was when she learnt how useful they were. They weren’t something to just kick at- but something to help heal.

“Have you been interested in plants before you came here?” she returned a question. Kind of life, you ask me one… I ask you. She leaned against a wall for a moment and watched as Collier lightly pounded the plants in the bowl. Her eyes drifted over to the old man, and she could see he was near sleeping. Collier would need some sleep as well- and so did she. If she was lucky, she might be able to get the rest of the night off- and fix some of her own clothes, possibly bath and then have a night full of sleep. But that was if she was lucky. Thing changed in the Garrison so easily these days, it was easy for the cook hands to do double shifts.

“Have you been interested in plants before you came here?”

Collier tilted his head to side to side in a wishy-washy manner. "My grandmother knew some about plants. She wouldn't really teach me what they were though. I think I was too young. She did make me grind them and other ingredients though." He tapped the pestle against the side of the mortar to dislodge the remaining bits of the plant he was crushing.

"That was a good few years ago, and outside of Thiasa. My grandfather and I have only been here a few months now. The plants are drastically different from where we were before." He held up the bowl to Elsie and looked in the basket for the next ingredient. He certainly had no desire to go into detail about Norge, always unsure of how people might react. Nothing had happened so far because he'd been careful and hadn't told anyone he and Aksel were Vikings. Considering the rocky climate of the mainland, and the tensions in Thiasa itself, he thought it best to just keep low.

"How many more ingredients do we have?"

Elsie listened patiently to Collier, she could be the listening type as much as she could run around like a child. She loved to have fun, but lately she hadn’t had much of it. Her life was a little bothersome at the moment and she wasn’t really prepared to unleash her wild, child, like behaviour. Not now, anyhow. Collier was from another place rather than Thiasa? That would explain the language of his grandfather- the one she hadn’t been able to understand. She wanted to know more, she had never really experienced other cultures then her own- and that would be an interesting learning experience. However, she was smart enough to know not to invade someone’s private life unless they introduced it to you. She figured by not asking questions- they would either tell her, or they wouldn’t, and she’d live with whatever.

She wasn’t the true curious type that needed to know everything, nor was she a gossip- therefore she would wait for someone else to open up about their experiences before she questioned them. It was not her place to ask. Still, it was interesting and she could barely eradicate the thought from her mind.

She took a deep breath, and wiped her forehead, before she turned back to Collier as he asked how may more ingredients they were using. It really depended on the person, but they were using roughly 5 different plants for this once tonic. However, the person brewing it could always choose the dosage, what was put in etc, “There are around about five different plants- however, these is always a choice and the person who makes it c always choose what to use and how much to use.”

Apparently he had finished grinding them, she took a pot off the fire which she had previously filled with water and brought it over, pouring the powdered mixture into it. Steam rose quickly as it was added, “Right, now we add a little bit of sugar for flavour, and a few of these leaves,” she showed him a few leaves and placed them in the pot, “Leave it for about 5 minutes, and it should be well cooked. Let it cool, and you will be able to drink it.”

“Leave it for about 5 minutes, and it should be well cooked. Let it cool, and you will be able to drink it.”

Collier nodded, looking at the plants for a few minutes as they floated around in the hot water. The steam and heat that radiated from the fire made him uncomfortable, so he stepped away and sat on the edge of his bed. Five minutes was enough time for him to continue tuning his guitar, so he took it into his lap and began struming it to test the notes.

The music, however impromptu, woke Aksel. He grunted a little bit as he lifted his head and looked around. He looked at Elsie for a moment, blinked, then looked at the pot full of the steaming plants, then his eyes wandered over to Collier and the guitar.

"Is it done yet?" he grumbled, sitting up and stretching. Several bones popped as he moved.



((ooc: Gawd, sorry for this. Can't think of anything else to do.))

((Please forgive my absence. As I have said before, I was sick. I had to go to hospital for a few days. But, I am back.))

Elsie smiled at young boy, who was but a few years her junior. They were both still young to the world-compared to many, yet they carried huge tasks upon their backs. Yet, he seemed at so much ease with what the world had given him. Though it mightn’t be much- he was still content and seemed to make the best of it. His intelligence was remarkable- why he could be a scribe if he had so wished. It would only take him a few months to pick it up. He was that smart. He seemed to be like a sponge, and could soak everything up.

She watched him move back to his bed, where he began tunning the fire. She would leave soon, she had a bed to sleep in also- and the day had been quite a long one. Personally, she couldn’t wait to sleep. The little moments of sleep she had- she liked to make the best of. Suddenly Aksel was awake and grumbling. He sat up and his bones cracked. Of course it would hurt a little- but it was old age and nearly every man and woman of age would witness it.

He was a grumpy old fellow- she wasn’t sure whether she’d be able to take care of him like Collier did. But perhaps it was because they were family. Families stuck together, well most of them anyway. She couldn’t say hers had. It had slowly dwindled away.

“Not long Aksel and you will be remedied,” she moved forward and looked at the tonic that was brewing. An aroma had begun to fill the room- she looked back up at him, “For an old man you are quite impatient.”

She didn’t want it to be a cruel comment, but it was about time the old man woke up to himself and was appreciative of what Collier was doing for him. A little thanks here and there wouldn’t go astray. Within a few more moments, the tonic was cooked to the point where it was beginning to precipitate. She removed it from where it sat on the fire, and placed it on the ground to cool. She turned to Collier, “Are you sure you’ll be able to perform this night?”

((Now I'm sorry for the wait. I didn't even see this till a few days ago. Sorry! And I'm glad you're feeling better.))


“Not long Aksel and you will be remedied. For an old man you are quite impatient.”

Aksel sat up in bed and stretched the muscles and appendages that he could stretch. Then he turned and swung his legs over the side of the mattress and let out a long, tired sigh. Collier glanced up from the guitar he was plucking, a little half-smile on his face.

"Of course I'm impatient," Aksel said with a wave of his good hand. "I'm all but minutes from death. Waiting doesn't become a man of my years. If there's some kind of brew that will prolong the descent into complete senility, I want it now."

Collier grinned to himself as he strum a little tune on the strings. He was used to his grandfather's slightly defeatist attitude. Aksel did have a sense of importance in himself since he was on in his years, and among his people he would be revered. Collier did revere him, and tried to take care of him so he would be around for a few years yet. He wasn't ready to lose him yet. He wasn't sure he would ever be ready to lose him.

"Thank you Elsie," Collier replied, smiling at the girl. "That's what he means to say, at any rate."

Aksel waved his hand again in a noncommittal way.

“Are you sure you’ll be able to perform this night?”

Collier looked at her and then at the pot she had taken off to cool. "I think we can. Perhaps after a little nap. There's time yet for that, isn't there? Even without one I think we'll do just fine. We've been resting for quite a time already."