In Hiding

[Thea Linnet]

Thea walked along the deserted street of Nottingham quickly. Though there were no guards present, the sooner they got the Priory, the better. Rober' was ahead of her, leading the way. She watched the swords move as he walked and thought about what had just transpired. He had killed three guards to help them escape. She had just witnessed a killing. A strange feeling overcame her, sending a shiver down her spine. Her heart beat faster when she thought of his face when he'd attacked. It was emotionless, like it was carved of stone. She knew he'd been serious when he'd told her killing was second nature to him, but she hadn't known how serious until now.
She trailed behind him by a few feet, her brows creased in thought.
"You know," she said quietly, as if scared of waking the sleeping town. "It's hard to imagine any bad is happening when the sky looks like it does." It was true. The sky was an inky black, the twinkle of stars glittering happily back at her. The moon hung low in the sky, its colour so white, so pure. It was so peaceful. No noise but their footfalls, no rules, no restrictions. She still felt strangely cold, but it bothered her less in the open air. Goosebumps prickled at her skin, but she didn't mind. She just watched the sky and hoped the feeling of freedom would last.

[Roe]

Roe knew that Thea had seen him kill those 3 guards, doing it as cooly as if he was killing some chickens in the back yard for dinner. Over the years, killing, whether it was one or a dozen or more, had become so commonplace it appeared that he did it without the slightest emotion. As a matter of fact he was even colder than normal, having met with Isabel, and separating, not under the best of circumstances, a few days beor. It had further solidified his view that he was incapable of having a meaningful relationship with a woman, and it had been confirmed to him by Isabel.

Roe was quite confident in his path through Nottingham on their way to the Priory. He was also sure that now that they were outside the walls of the castle, at this time of night, that they had very little to worry about the Sheriff's guards. He also could feel Thea's eyes boring into his back, especially after seeing his machine-like actions against those poor 3 guards who were just trying to do their jobs. Although he knew she probably had a lot of questions for him, he knew that what they needed to do was press on to the Priory. That's where she would be the most safe for the time being. And right now they just needed to take one step at a time.

[Thea Linnet]

The silence between Thea and Rober' was deafening. She jogged up and fell into step beside him. She fought to find something to say. She wanted to crack a joke or make some charming and witty remark to break the tension, but none came.
Her gaze would flicker over to Rober' every few steps, waiting to see a change in his stony visage. He seemed colder in the night air. Her head snapped up as if someone had slapped her as something came to mind.
It was because I kissed him, she thought miserably. She always messed things up like this.
Thea looked back at Rober', her face burning with embarrassment. What had she been thinking? He was her senior by at least ten years. He didn't have time to deal with stupid little girls. She shook her head and glared at him, another mood swing coming over her.
Thanks for leading me on, she thought venomously. She picked up her pace, seeing what she guessed was the Priory in the distance. She shot a looked over her shoulder at Rober', then rolled her eyes with a huff and continued on her way. Her thoughts darkened with the sky, her fists clenching in anger. Stupid men, she spat. Why had she been to foolish to believe anything this man had said? Then she'd kissed him! Thea let out an angry scream at the thought, glaring at the sky as if it was its fault.
"Hurry up," she said again, but without the teasing edge this time.

[Roe]

Roe could feel her eyes burning holes through his side and back. He could feel the tension in the cool night eye slowly but steadily build. Apparently she was not able to be happy unless engaged in almost constant banter and conversation. He could feel how she was searching for something to say.

Perhaps seeing him cut down those guards without a moment's hesitation or remorese had affected her. He did not know. However, he was not one who would talk and trike up a conversation on a whim. For him a conversation had to have a purpose, a specific meaning, not just the desire to hear one's own voice.

Could she not see that there was not really anything to talk about or converse over at this stage? They had made a bid to secure her freedom. Wasn't that enough? They had to get out of the castle with no witnesses, and to escape quickly, which they did. Time was now of the essence.

They needed to pass the space between the castle's walls and the walls of the Priory before a general alarm could be thrown out. If they were identified before they could get to the Priory and the Sisters there their entire gambit would have been wasted. Finally she spoke, but with traces of venom and sarcasm: "Hurry up!"

"Stop where you are. This is not the time or place for temper tantrums. We will only stay here a few seconds so that your mind may be cleared and your thoughts set right. First, I'm a cold-blooded killer and a mercenary. I am willing and capable of doing whatever the mission calls for, including you. So far we have been both good and lucky and no one knows where we are at. However, we must get inside the Priory walls before it has been discovered what we do."

"My mission is to make sure you get to live another day. As long as you do what you are told when you are told to do it, you may survive, and then this will all have been a success. I would prefer that you like me, but whether you like me hate me or love me matters not. You may have had different expectations of me before we started ion this journey. My recommendation is that you focus such concerns on those who deserve them, and not, on one who doesn't .... Forward!"

[Thea Linnet]

Thea snapped to a halt at Roe's words. Slowly, she turned to face him. She held his gaze as he spoke, his words sinking in. Her glare softened every so slightly, but she didn't fully back down. Perhaps the true stress of the situation was dawning on her, or something else, but she couldn't let go of her misplaced rage. She bit her tongue and nodded at the end of his speech.
"Fine," she said as calmly as she could manage, though it still came out clipped. "You're right. This is no place for such tantrums," she struggled with the last word, but agreed nonetheless. They would sort out what ever they needed to later. She gave him a small smile to show that she was sorry. It didn't meet her eyes, but she turned before he could see that. She pushed forward at him command and they soon reached the Priory. She looked up at the building then at the door. Casting a glance at Rober', she knocked twice on the thick wooden door.

[Roe]

Roe had no idea whether his little speech had any positive effect on her or not. She definitely had a mind of her own and unwillingness to accept advice, unless she could be convinced in the first place. He just knew that he had to try and get the necessary points across to her.

It was obvious that she felt she had to be the one out on point even though he was the one who actually knew where they should be going. Roe realized that it was quite late, well after midnight by this point, and their arrival would not be proclaimed with heraldic music.

After Thea's 2 sharp knocks on the wooden door, they head a voice cry out, "Yes ..... who goes there .... at this time of night. The night is almost half over. Could you come back in the morning?"

"No .... we cannot .... might you possibly be Agnes .... second to Sister Magdalene? I am Sir Rober' .... and associate of Robin Hood .... I need the Sisters assistance in hiding a prominent female person for a time. Would it be possible to speak to Sister Magdalene?"

Agnes responded almost immediately and opened the door. "Why, of course she is welcome to come in and speak with Sister Magdalene. She is in the Stills room. P will take you to her at once."

(OOC - posed Agnes with permission)

[Thea Linnet]

Thea stood back while Roe talked to a woman from behind the door.
"I am Sir Rober' .... and associate of Robin Hood" Thea's eyes widened at him, though he wasn't paying attention. Not only did he know Hood, but he was an associate of the outlaw. She raised her eyebrows at his back. Liar, she thought. Her mood lifted slightly when the door swung open and she was lead inside. She was walking beside Rober' and she let hand brush against his to catch it attention. When he looked over, she hesitated, but thinking about where she was, whispered to him sincerely.
"Sorry. I was being irrational, I guess." She wouldn't let him win the whole thing. "It's been a strange night for me." She added as an afterthought. She kept her mouth shut though when they entered a room filled with different kinds of medicines. All forms of healing covered the walls and tables, liquid, solid, books, herbs. Thea stood just inside the room, not knowing where to stand or what to do. She looked to Rober', raising her eyebrows at the other woman in the room. Well, I don't know what to do! the look seemed to say. Thea settled on playing with her sleeve until she was spoken to.

[Sister Magdalene]

Sister Magdalene had been burning the proverbial midnight oil. She rubbed her eyes wearily, just about to call it a night, when Agnes ushered a young woman and an armed man into the Still Room.

The good Sister was more than a little surprised, given the lateness of the hour, but nevertheless she regained her composure and stood to greet her unexpected guests. "What can I do for you, my children?" she asked, her voice serene. "It must be something important if come seeking me at this time of night."

Mags turned to Agnes, who was yawning behind her hand. "Agnes, my dear, go and fetch some hot ale for our guests, then you may return to bed." With Agnes heading off to do as she was bidden, Sister Magdalene turned once more to her two visitors. They seemed a mismatched pair and yet, there was something that seemed to link them together but she couldn't put her finger on it. "Come, let us retire to the Refectory to sit whilst you take refreshment. Its more comfortable there."

Picking up the lamp from her work table, the good Sister led the way down the stone corridor until they reached the stairs. Descending them, she beckond her guests to follow her into a long wide room which was dominated by a big oak table. Mags took her usual seat and waved Thea and Roe to another two. "Speak freely, my children. There is no one here to overhear you. How can I help you?" She enquired.

[Thea Linnet]

Thea took another deep breath as she sat down and looked at the woman in front of her. Her eyes were kind, but inquisitive. She cast a glance over her shoulder before explaining her position.
"I arrived in Nottingham yesterday and offended a woman by the name of Lady Court. While I may have had the intention of teasing her, I had not idea my words would affect her in such a way. I was locked up for what I said and Sir Rober' was kind enough to help me escape. To be put simply, I am looking for a place to, well... hide until things settle down in the castle." Thea said. "If it's not too much trouble," she added hurriedly. Thea thought back on what she had done and sighed. Why hadn't she just told the truth? Apparently tonight was a night of regrets for her. She smiled wryly at the thought, looking once again at Rober' for a heartbeat.

[Sister Magdalene]

Sister Magdalene nodded slowly as her fingers beat out a tattoo on the table top. "I see," she said slowly. "I've also had the misfortune to run into Lady Rosetta Court over the last few days." She sighed tiredly as she shifted in her chair. Agnes entered with a flagon of hotale and three pewter goblets. Mags indicated for the serving girl to pour the ale and waited until a goblet was placed in front of her. The aroma of the spices and herbs added to the ale caressed her nose appreciatively.

"I'm deeply sorry to hear of the experiences you've been through since you arrived in this town, my dear." The good Sister continued. "I would be more than pleased to offer you sanctuary here. We don't run to many luxuries, but I can promise you a bed and food in your belly."

Mags turned to Sir Rober'. "Sir Knight, may God bless you for your kindness to this child. But the hour is late. Is there anything else you need to ask of me?"

[Roe]

"If it is easier, the name that goes with my present title is Rober'. At one time the noble family of Williams was what I would have called my own. It was my fortune to be raised in the samehousehold as Robin of Locksley, jut as it has been my recent pleasure to have made the acquaintance of Friar Tuck, from whom you and your kindly nature were identified. I must be returning to my duties in the castle, but can you give me any word of Robin and their activities. If not, I must say good-bye and say how much of an honor and privilege it has been to finally meet you. Stay safe and well," he said to them both. With a friendly nod to Thea he made his departure back to the castle.

[Thea Linnet]

"Thank you Sister," Thea said, and gratefully took a sip of ale. It was wonderfully warm and rid her body of the goosebumps that had covered her pale skin before. She let her eyes wander the room casually. Tables were lined up end-to-end, their wooden benches neatly tucked underneath. Thea toyed with the rim of her mug and tuned out Rober's speech. Not out of irritation, but sheer fatigue. A wave of it crashed over her, the full impact of the night whipping at her like a sharp wind. She squeezed her eyes together and suppressed a yawn. Beside her, Rober' stood and nodded at her. She replied with a weak wave, but quickly dropped her hand.
"I know it may be rude, but given the hour, could I be pointed in the direction of a bed? Forgive me, but sleep knocks at the door even as we speak." Thea yawned again, unable to stop herself. She smiled apologetically at Sister Magdalene before draining her mug and sighing. Perhaps if she slept, the days events would seem so harsh, so stupid and foolish. Perhaps.

[Sister Magdalene]

Of course, Mags didn't have any current news of Robin Hood, not having seen Tuck since their last meeting. "Peace be with you, Rober'" The nun said softly as he took his leave. She then turned and smiled warmly at Thea as she yawned.

Putting her own goblet on the table, Sister Magdalene jumped to her feet. "Of course, my Child, you must be absolutely shattered after all thats happened to you." Reaching for a rushlight, the good Sister led the way out of the Refrectory and back along the stone flagged corridor until she reached a solid wooden door. "These are our meagre guest quarters. Of course, nowhere near as fine as those at Kirklees Abbey, which is our main home. But the bed will be dry and relatively free of bugs." Mags pushed open the door and walked forwards. The guest hall was small but clean. The fireplace was empty. Three bedrooms, which were hardly any bigger than a nun's cell, stood on the far side.

Mags put the rushlight on the table and turned to her guest. "The bell will ring for Vespers at five o'clock, but hopefully that won't disturb you. Sleep yourself out, my dear, then after you've broken your fast, come and find me so we can talk." The Nun smiled kindly at Thea. "I'm very interested and curious to know what your future plans are. Good night." Mags glided to the door and gently closed it behind her, leaving Thea alone for the time being.

[Thea Linnet]

Thea followed the Sister gratefully and when they reached the quarters, Thea whispered her thanks and soon found a bed. Removing her shoes and the outer layer of her dress, she got in and was soon sleeping deeply. She had dreams of her father that night, followed by some unpleasant ones of Lady Court. And while the latter was quickly forgotten, her father's face remained in her mind until she woke.
Sunlight cut across the room, waking the sleeping woman. Thea rubbed her eyes and moaned as she stretched her tight muscles. Kicking her legs over the side of the bed, she thought about her father. She'd left Birmingham six days ago, the same day her father had left for the Holy Lands. She wondered how long it took to get the Holy Lands. Perhaps someone in Nottingham would know. Maybe Rober' could tell her.
She rolled her eyes and grinned wryly. That is if she ever saw him again. Something told her that her wouldn't be so keen to see her anytime soon. She got dressed quickly and pulled on her boots before exploring the Priory. As she walked, she wondered what time it was. The sun was bright so she must have slept for quite a while. She neared the entrance and could hear the buzz of morning life. Thea walked through the people until she came to a small courtyard. Upon closer inspection, she found it was a garden filled with herbs and vegetables, all in bright bloom. She found the place beautifully calm and was about to take a seat on the path when she remembered that she was to find Sister Magdalene.
Given the amount of activity, Thea assumed that the Sister wouldn't be in her own quarters, but would be rushing around helping others. Once again she approached the entrance and saw the Sister tending to a small boy. Thea walked up quietly and waited for Sister Magdalene's back to straighten before speaking.
"You wished to speak with me Sister?"

[Sister Magdalene]

Sister Magdalene looked up and smiled at Thea. "Good morning, you look much better. I take it you rested well?" The Nun glanced down and finished bandaging the young boy's knee. "There you go, Samuel. Go and find Sister Mary in the kitchens. She's been baking sweet pastries. If you ask nicely, she'll let you have one." Mags watched as the little boy skipped off. At least it had been a minor abrasion to his knee. She then rose stiffly to her feet, brushing down the front of her habit to remove any imaginary dust.

The good Sister then led the way back out into the herb garden and sat on a stone bench which was half hidden by the vine that clung to the Priory House's walls. She looked at the pretty girl beside her and sighed. "Its a beautiful morning, is it not? I think the whole week will be blessed with good weather." The nun sighed as she raised her face to the sun, allowing it to warmly caress her skin. "It was all so late when you and Rober' arrived last night." Mags continued, "Why don't you start at the beginning and tell me the whole story? That is, if you wish to. But if I am going to offer you sanctuary here, I need to know as much as I can if I am to protect you." Mags lowered her face and looked at Thea again, the expression on her face urging the young woman to tell her tale.