The next morning, the group stirs, excitement building as they prepare for Merig's knighting ceremony. At Kate and Merig's home, the air is filled with joy and anticipation. Kate helps Merig don his new light armor, her hands moving with precision as she adjusts his collar and smooths his sleeves. Merig's face radiates happiness, his eyes shining with pride, as he gazes at Kate, his love and gratitude evident. Together, they beam with joy, ready to face the momentous occasion ahead.
(K)Today is your big day, my love, the day you become my knight. But you've always been my knight.
(M)[smiles] And I always will be. I'm very excited.
(K)I bet you are, honey, I'm excited for you. And I'm sure you love the gift from Dad. You took it out of the box when we came home last night and you couldn't stop looking at it. You even hung it up near your side of the bed.
(M)I just love it so much, but not as much as I love you, of course.
(K)Nonsense, it's a very special gift made just for you. You have every right to love it as much as you do.
(M)Of course, it was given to me by very special people in my life.
(K)Exactly and my parents think you're a very special person, too.
(M)Alright, how do I look?
(K)You look very handsome in your armor, my love. I just might keep you here and have you all to myself.[wink]
(M)[chuckles] As much as I would love that, I can't miss my own knighting ceremony.
(K)[giggles] I know, I know. We'll have all night to spend together and celebrate just you and me. And you can wear this light armor when you make love to me.
(M)That was my plan, my moon. Great minds think alike.
(K)That they do, my earth.
Their eyes sparkle with desire as Merig's hands find their way to Kate's waist, pulling her closer while enveloping her in his embrace. They lock gazes, and with a tender touch, Kate wraps her arms around Merig's shoulders, initiating a passionate kiss. Once ready, they step out of their home, heading towards Rath Castle where the knighting ceremony awaits. The throne room buzzes with anticipation as friends and family gather to celebrate Merig's momentous occasion. Kate stands proudly alongside Larry, Ashley, Barth, Sarah, Gordo, Cormac, and Deirdre, all positioned at the forefront. Donna, Jack, Clara, and Millie are also present, along with Charlotte and several other locals, as well as a contingent of Royal Guards eager to witness their comrade's elevation. The crowd buzzes with excitement, waiting for the ceremony to begin when, at last, the queen makes her grand entrance. Merig stands tall, anticipation radiating from him as Eirawen approaches, a gold medallion in hand, her smile warm and inviting as she prepares to speak.
(E)Welcome, everyone, to this lovely occasion. How exciting is it that this brave and honorable commander becomes what he's always dreamed of? He always used to tell me how it was his life goal that he be knighted someday and his determination impressed me. From then on, I knew he would be a formidable Royal Guard and commander. He is a good friend and a trusted subordinate and I believe that he will do great things as he always has. I know for a fact that you've been waiting years for this moment, Commander Flynn, and now your dream has come true. Let the ceremony begin. To all here present, know that Merig Flynn, having been recognized for long and honorable service to the armor and cavalry, is hereby admitted as a distinguished Knight in the Royal Guards of Tara. Merig Flynn, please kneel and receive your knighthood.
Merig beams with delight as he heeds Queen Eirawen's command, gracefully lowering himself to one knee before her, his left knee touching the ground. With a gentle motion, she drapes the medallion around his neck. Eirawen then pivots, striding away to retrieve her sword from beside the throne. After a moment, she returns, standing tall before Merig once more. With a regal gesture, she extends her sword, lightly brushing the tip against each of his shoulders before she begins to speak again.
(E)Merig Flynn, I do hereby knight you into the honorable Sir Merig Flynn of the Royal Guards of Tara. Arise knight and be recognized.
Merig rises to his feet, his eyes shining with pride, as he faces the sea of beaming faces. The room erupts in a thunderous applause, the sound waves washing over him like a triumphant tide. Kate breaks free from the group, her arms outstretched, and Merig sweeps her into a joyful embrace, their lips meeting in a celebratory kiss. The group surges forward, forming a tight circle around Merig, their arms entwined as they shower him with congratulations and praise. Charlotte, Donna, and the children join the fray, adding their own warm words and smiles to the mix. The room is filled with the infectious energy of their collective joy, a testament to Merig's hard-won achievement.
(K)You did it, my love. You're my husband and my knight.
(M)That's right and I couldn’t be happier.
(B)I'm proud of you, little brother, you deserve it.
(M)Thanks, Barth.
(L)Absolutely, you've been talking about this day since we first got here and started training. Time flies, doesn't it, pal?
(M)It sure does, buddy. We've been through a lot and had so much fun. It'll be your turn soon.
(L)Don't worry about me, today's about you. You're my best friend and I'm proud of you.
(M)Thanks, Larry, I'm proud of myself, too.
(A)You finally did it, Merig. Even when I was training, you talked about being knighted. After seeing what a respectable commander you were, I knew you'd win the title one day.
(M)Thanks, Ash, you and Larry believed in me when no one else did. I couldn't have done it without you both.
(G)Congrats, Merig. First, you get married, then you become a knight of the Royal Guards. I'm sure more exciting things are to come.
(M)We could only hope so, Gordo, we have to stay optimistic.
(C)Congrats, Merig, I'm glad I could bear witness to this. You've done great things, and I could only hope to be as great as you one day.
(M)You will be, Cormac, don't worry. You've already done great things so far, so you're off to a good start.
(C)Thanks, Commander Flynn, or should I say Sir Flynn?
(DD)Congratulations, Merig, I'm so glad I could be here to see this. Thank you for inviting me.
(M)Thank you for being here, Deirdre. It means a lot that you and Cormac came here.
(DD)Of course, we didn't want to miss this exciting moment.
(S)Congratulations on your knighting Merig. I'm sure you're very happy about it and we're all so happy for you.
(M)Thanks, Sarah, I'm glad you all could make it.
(S)Oh absolutely, I didn't want to miss this, either, we were all glad to be here.
(JA)Commander Merig!
(CL)Merig!
(M)Hey Jack, Hey Clara. It's so good to see you both here with your mom and Millie.
(JA)I told Mom that I had to come to see you get knighted.
(CL)I wanted to come, too. We haven't seen you and Kate since you two finally got married.
(M)[chuckles] Well, it's good to see you here, Clara, and it's good to see you too, Jack.
(JA)Now you're the boss of the entire Royal Guards.
(M)I was the boss before and I'll still be the commander in the Royal Guards, “knight” is just my title.
(JA)So you're an even bigger boss?
(M)[chuckles] That’s right.
(JA)I want to go to the training grounds and watch you train sometime.
(M)I think I can make that happen. I have an awesome new bow I'll be using to shoot my arrows. And you can even watch me spar with Larry and the others.
(JA)That would be so awesome. You've got to show me sometime, Merig. Can we go there, Mom?
(D)I think we can arrange something soon.
(JA)It'll be so much fun watching you spar with the others.
(ML)I'd like to come and watch you, too.
(CL)Me, too!
(D)Congratulations on your new title, Merig. The kids really wanted to be here, especially Jack.
(M)Thank you for being here, Donna. It means a lot. It's good to see you, too, Charlotte.
(CH)I didn't want to miss this. Kate told me you were getting knighted and that you'd want me to be here, so I couldn't say “no”. Congratulations, Merig, I'm proud of you and I'm sure you're ecstatic.
(M)Absolutely, thank you all for being here, it means the world to me.
(K)Of course, my love, you're very important and everyone loves you. You protect the city and we'll always be here to show you our gratitude.
(E)That’s right, Merig, you're very much admired in this city and my most esteemed knight and my dearest friend. I was more than happy to bestow this title on you, and now you can wear it with pride.
(M)I've always been proud to be a part of the guards, Your Highness, and a part of your beautiful city.
(E)[smiles] Good, now go celebrate with everyone and boast your knighthood. You deserve it.
(M)Thank you, Eirawen. It was an honor to be knighted by you, and it's an even bigger honor to wield this title.
(E)The pleasure was all mine, Sir Merig Flynn. It was good seeing you as well, Kate.
(K)It was wonderful seeing you, Eirawen.
(M)Thank you for being here, sweetheart. It means the world to me that you're here, especially.
(K)Of course, my love, you are my knight, and my husband and I wouldn’t miss this for anything in the world. I couldn't be more proud of you and to be married to you.
(M)And I couldn't be more proud to have you as my wife and to be your knight.
(K)[smiles] Let's head to the pub and celebrate, shall we?
(M)We shall.
Merig's fingers intertwine with Kate's, their hands clasped together as they exchange a loving gaze. He leans in, their lips meeting in a tender, sweet kiss, the moment filled with warmth and affection. The celebratory crowd makes their way to the pub, the atmosphere electric with joy and camaraderie. Kate and the group claim their usual table, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of friends, as they indulge in food, drinks, and lively conversation. Larry rises from his seat, his own drink in hand, and clears his throat to gain the attention of the table. A hush falls over the group, eager to hear his words, as he begins to speak, his voice filled with emotion and sincerity.
(L)I promise I’m not drinking too much, but this is a special day and I want to do what I do best and make a toast to my pal, my best friend.
(M)I was waiting for a toast from you. I thought you’d forgotten about me.[smirk]
(L)You know better than that, Sir Merig Flynn.
(K)It wouldn’t be a celebration without a toast from our very own Larry Dugan.
(A)Take it away, my love.
(L)I’ll toot my own horn this time.
(M)Do it, buddy, it’s a special occasion.
(L)Thanks, pal. To the honorable Sir Merig Flynn, this is a dream come true for you, second to marrying Kate, of course. You’ve come such a long way. It’s been over ten years since you and I first set foot in this beautiful city of Tara and we’ve never looked back. We were recruited together by the queen herself. We trained together, we bled together, we bruised together, and we broke bones together. After years of training, we both got our ranks together. You as the commander and myself as second in command, and that was the proudest day of my Royal Guard life. You and I were equals, side by side, and we continued to kick ass as best friends and it was and still is the biggest honor to fight alongside you. But now, you’re above me. You are my superior and I am but a foot soldier to the Knight of the Royal Guards of Tara.
(M)No matter my rank, you are still my best friend and my equal, Larry.
(L)And that’s what makes you a true knight and my best friend. So brave and formidable, yet so humble and respectable. Together we’ve instilled fear in the filthy bandits that lurk out in the forest and still somehow won the hearts of our women and you had the pleasure of making this lovely lady your wife who sits next to you while I had the pleasure of being your best man.
(M)That’s right, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
(K)Me either, my love, our life is perfect.
(L)Indeed it is and my life is perfect as well, as I will soon have the pleasure of making this beautiful woman sitting next to me, my wife. But now you, Merig Flynn, have become the knight that every Royal Guard wishes they could be. Maybe one day I can join you and receive that title, but for now, you will continue to do great things and I will continue to proudly fight alongside you. To Sir Merig Flynn, may your life continue to be perfect in every way.
The rest of the group raise their drinks while they join in on the toast as they give their well wishes and drinks to congratulate Merig and his new title as Knight of the Royal Guards of Tara. Merig and Kate take their drinks before looking into each other’s eyes, as they smile and share a kiss before they continue celebrating and enjoying their time with the group.
(B)So, little brother, what are the plans for your first day as a knight?
(M)Well, big brother, I was thinking of maybe letting you go out into the forest with us to fight bandits. I’ve been watching you train more and I think you’re ready.
(B)Are you serious?! Finally, I get to go and kick some bandit ass. You hear that, sis?
(K)I did, Barth, I'm so happy for you. It looks like I'll be training my magic alone.
(M)Actually, you won't. I'll take Barth out with us in the morning and you can come to the training grounds in the afternoon and Barth can continue training with you.
(K)But that's a lot for Barth to do in one day. He'll be doing enough being out there in the forest fighting bandits, as it is.
(B)I honestly don't mind, sis, we can still train together. It'll be fun. I'll warm up in the forest and be ready to train with you for a while at the training grounds.
(K)Only if you're sure, Barth, I don't want to take time out of your day.
(B)It'll be no problem at all.
(S)It's so exciting, Barth, you'll get to go out and do some guard work. Just be careful out there and try not to get hurt.
(B)Don't worry, Sarah, if I get hurt too badly, I'll be sure to visit you.[wink]
(S)[giggles] Well, let's just hope that doesn't happen, okay? Let's not make it a habit.
(B)I appreciate your concern, Sarah, I promise I'll be careful.
(K)Barth is a very powerful mage. I doubt he'll have any trouble taking down bandits.
(G)Oh for sure, I spent ten years at the camp watching him train his magic and he’s definitely not someone the bandits want to trifle with.
(C)It's true, he even defeated me several times, and I gained a lot of respect for him. He's a strong master mage and he'll do great out there in the forest.
(M)Speaking of which, your training starts tomorrow, Cormac, you can use the targets at the training grounds to start out with for a few hours. Just don't overdo it. If you get tired or strain yourself, sit in the resting area until you feel alright to continue.
(C)You got it, Commander, I’ll be up bright and early tomorrow, I’m really excited.
(DD)I’ll come and watch him train, if that’s okay, Commander.
(M)I don’t see why not, you can make sure he doesn’t overdo it. He may have recovered, but it’s been a while since he’s done any fighting, so his muscles need time to adjust to his weapon again.
(DD)I’d be happy to. I want to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself.
(G)I can stay and spar with him while you take Barth out in the forest, that way he has someone to spar with.
(M)I think that would be fine.
(K)And I can spar with you and Cormac while I train my magic until Barth gets back to train with me.
(M)I’d prefer if you trained with the equipment, sweetheart. I don’t want you to get hurt if you spar with them.
(K)Honey, I’ll be fine, I promise it’s just sparing. I understand that you don’t want me to get hurt, but I’ll never master my spells if I don’t have someone to give me a challenge. I’ll never get better if I worry about getting hurt.
(A)If you’re so worried about her getting hurt, I can always spar with her since I’m a woman, too.
(K)Is that what you’re worried about, hon? Because I’m a woman?
(M)[sigh] Us goblins are much stronger than you, so yes, I worry about you getting hurt because of it.
(K)I can understand your worry, but didn’t Ash train with Larry when she started?
(L)She did, but she used me as target practice and I’d run around the training grounds while she’d throw her alchemy skills at me. I’d never actually try to hit her with my training swords.
(K)Well then, Gordo and Cormac can just do that while I throw my spells at them. Although, I wouldn’t want to hurt them with my magic, so maybe it’s probably best I stick to the training equipment, anyway.
(A)Don’t worry, if Larry is strong enough to withstand my alchemy attacks, then these guys should be strong enough to withstand magic.
(G)She’s right, you can throw your ice spells at me while I run around using my agility and you can throw your fire and lightning spells at Cormac while he shoots training bolts.
(K)I could do that, but I wouldn’t want to injure you, Cormac, even though you’ve recovered.
(C)Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. You’ll be throwing your spells at the training bolts, not at me, so you should be all right.
(K)Would that be okay, my love? Gordo won’t be attacking me and Cormac will be using training bolts.
(B)That’s a good idea. Cormac can even shoot the bolts in the air like you did when I was first training, Merig.
(M)I think that should be fine, just please be careful, sweetheart. Cormac, Gordo, please be careful with her.
(G)Don’t worry, Merig, we wouldn’t do anything to hurt her intentionally.
(C)He’s right, it’s just sparing. I won’t shoot the training bolts at her, just around her and in the air, like Barth suggested.
(M)Alright, that should be fine, that makes me feel better about it. I’m sorry, sweetheart, I just worry about you and your safety. I can’t help it.
(K)I know, honey, I understand your worry so you don’t have to apologize. I just don’t want to be babied and I want a challenge since my magic is getting stronger.
(M)I understand and I don’t want you to feel like I’m sheltering you or babying you. Spar with Cormac and Gordo, but please be careful, that’s all I ask.
(K)Alright, my love, I promise I will. I love you.
(M)I love you, too.
(C)I can’t wait to get started with my training tomorrow. It’ll be fun sparring with you and Gordo.
(G)Oh, we’ll have a lot of fun.
(DD)And I’ll have fun watching.
(K)We’ll definitely have fun. I can’t wait, either. It’s a good thing I’m only drinking ginger ale. I’m starting to feel nauseous again.
(M)It’s okay, sweetheart, I’ll rub your back again if you want me to.
(K)You don’t have to, honey, this day is about you. I’ll be fine.
At that moment, Kate's laughter evaporates, her smile vanishing as she bends forward, clutching her stomach and wincing in discomfort. A wave of nausea washes over her, prompting her to cover her mouth with her hand. Desperately, she reaches for her ginger ale, taking a quick sip, while Merig, with a panicked expression, tenderly strokes her back. The rest of the group watches in alarm, their faces etched with worry as they voice their concern for her well-being.
(A)Kate, sweetie are you okay?
(K)I’m fine, this has been going on since yesterday. I’m not feeling well and it only happens a couple of times out of the day. For the rest of the day, I feel fine.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
(L)Maybe it’s that time of year when people get sick, it sounds like a stomach bug.
(M)Maybe it’s best you stay home for a while if that’s the case.
(K)I’ll be fine, if it gets any worse I will. I don’t want to put a damper on your special day.
(M)It’s not putting a damper on anything if you’re sick, honey. I care and worry about you more than anything. It’s not a special day if you’re in pain and not feeling well.
(B)He’s right, sis, you’re important to us too, remember? If you’re not feeling well, we’ll do what we can to help you.
(K)I appreciate your concern. I promise I’ll be fine.
In an instant, Kate falls silent once again, her eyes growing wide with shock as she begins to gag. She instinctively covers her mouth, springs to her feet, and dashes toward the restrooms. Concern etches itself on Ashley's face as she leaps from her chair, following Kate into the restroom, leaving the rest of the group at the table exchanging anxious glances.
(L)That didn’t look or sound good. I hope she's okay.
(B)Odds are she’s in there vomiting, which is an even bigger concern.
(M)If that’s the case, I’ll have her stay home for a few days until it clears up. You may be right, Larry, it could be a stomach bug.
(DD)Poor Kate, I hope she’s okay, too.
(S)I can always go back to the healer and get her something and bring it back.
(M)That would be wonderful, Sarah. I would greatly appreciate it. Please take her home first, so she can lie down for a while.
(B)I’ll go with them and help Kate get home.
(M)That’s a good idea, thanks, Barth.
(C)Doesn’t look like she’ll be sparing anytime soon, then.
(G)Yeah, if she’s sick, we wouldn’t want her to make it worse.
(M)I’m thinking the same thing, she’s definitely going home and resting.
(S)I’ll go see if she’s okay, I’ll be right back.
(B)Here, take her drink to her, she’ll need it.
(S)Right, I’ll get her some water, too.
Sarah swoops up Kate's ginger ale and strides away from the table, bound for the bar to request a glass of water. Sherry quickly pours it and hands Sarah a refreshing glass, which Sarah accepts before continuing on to the restrooms. As she pushes open the door, the sound of Kate's distressing retching echoes from within. Sarah quickly locates the stall where Kate and Ashley have taken refuge and finds Kate hunched over the commode, her body wracked with violent heaves. Ashley stands by, tenderly holding Kate's hair back and rubbing her back in soothing circles. Sarah slips into the stall, hands Ashley the ginger ale, and kneels down beside Kate, her gentle voice a calming balm as she too rubs Kate's back with compassionate strokes.
(S)Everything will be okay, just breathe, I brought some water for you.
(A)Thank you, Sarah, you’re a lifesaver.
(S)Merig asked for Barth and me to take you home so you can lie down. Here, drink some water.
(K)Thank you, Sarah, tell Merig I’ll be fine.
(A)Honey, you really should go home and rest, you could be really sick.
(S)Ash is right. Barth and I can take you home and I’ll go get you some medicine from Nessa.
(K)Alright, alright, this is Merig’s big day, and I wanted to spend it celebrating his knighting.
(A)He’s more concerned about you than his big day, Kate. You know Merig loves you and he doesn’t care what’s going on. If something is happening to you, he’ll drop everything and take care of you, you know that.
(K)I’ll go home, he can stay here and have fun with you all.
(S)He really looked worried, Kate, so I think Ash is right. He’ll be too worried about you to have fun.
(A)You’re his wife and his first priority, remember?
(K)[sigh] I just hate that this is happening. I hate getting sick because I feel useless if I’m in bed all day. I remember when I first got sick living with Merig. Of course, he was there and took care of me, but I felt so useless to him.
(A)Kate, you know better than that. Merig loves you and he’ll do anything for you. You aren’t useless if you’re sick and can’t do anything, so it wouldn’t exactly be a choice if your body needs rest.
(S)That’s right, if you don’t rest, you’ll get worse and it can be serious.
(K)You’re both right, I’ll go home and rest. I just didn’t want to miss out on this day since it’s so important to Merig.
(A)I understand your frustration, honey. It’s certainly inconvenient that this happened on a day like this. But unfortunately, it can’t be helped if it does happen.
(K)Okay, I think I’m alright now. Let’s go back out there and I’ll go home.
(A)Alright, honey, let’s get you up off the floor.
Ashley and Sarah quickly assist Kate to her feet, and together they leave the stall, stepping out of the restroom. With her hand resting on her belly, Kate is supported by Ashley and Sarah as they make their way back to the group table. As they near, Merig rises from his seat, concern etched on his face, and approaches Kate. Ashley and Sarah release Kate as Merig tenderly takes her and cradles her face, brushing his fingers against her cheeks, then places a hand on her forehead to see if she has a fever.
(M)You’re burning up, I’m taking you home right now.
(K)[sigh] Today was supposed to be about you and somehow it turned into being about me. I’m sorry, my love, I feel so terrible.
(M)Nothing else matters if you’re sick and in pain, sweetheart, you have nothing to apologize for. You’re my wife and I’m here to take care of you, remember?
(K)We’re celebrating here, so you should stay here. I'll go home with Barth and Sarah and lie down while they keep me company.
(M)No, I’m going home with you so I can take care of you. We’ve already been here for a while. There’s no reason why I can’t take you home.
(K)[sigh] Alright, but only if you’re sure.
(M)As sure as I am that I love you, sweetheart.
(K)Okay, my love, I’m sorry I ruined your day.
(M)Hey you hush, you didn’t ruin anything, honey.
(B)He’s right, sis, you’re more important right now if you’re not feeling well.
(L)Go get some rest. There’s always another day we can celebrate when you’re not sick.
(G)We’d rather have you go home and rest so you can feel better, rather than have you here going back and forth to the restroom.
(C)Go home and rest. We’ll see you again when you get better.
(DD)We hope you feel better soon, Kate.
(K)[sigh] Alright, you all win, you’re all so good to me.
(S)You’re our good friend and we care about you. I remember when you’d come to visit me when I was sick back home. You’d bring me soup, and it was the best soup I’d ever had. I felt better in just a few days after eating it.
(A)Oh, Kate’s soups are the best when you’re sick, it’s magic for the body.
(K)[giggles] I love you all, I’ll go home and I’ll see you all soon, I hope.
(B)We love you, too, sis. Sarah and I will come to visit you tomorrow after my guard duties.
(S)I’ll go back to the healer and bring you some medicine. And I’ll bring more when Barth and I come to see you.
(K)Okay, thank you all for your concerns.
(M)I’ll see you all later. I’ll be up for guard duties bright and early.
(L)Alright, pal, take care of your wife. That’s all that matters.
(M)Of course, I always do.
(A)Bye, Kate, I love you, hon.
(K)I love you, too, Ash.
The remaining members of the group conclude their farewells to Kate and Merig before Merig tenderly wraps his arm around Kate, assisting her as they proceed toward the door. Together, they leave the pub and begin their journey home. Meanwhile, the others continue to occupy themselves in the pub, engaging in discussions regarding their worries about Kate's health and well-being.
(A)That woman is a stubborn one, but I love her.
(L)Kate has always put others before herself and I know she feels terrible about bringing this day to a screeching halt.
(B)But she has no reason to feel terrible at all. Health matters more than anything and I’d rather she go home and get well again.
(L)Of course, she did nothing wrong.
(G)I’m actually worried about her. I hope it’s nothing serious.
(S)I’ll make a home visit to Kate with some medicine. I’ll see if Nessa can examine her to see what might be wrong with her.
(C)I’m sure Merig will take care of her, too. He seemed really concerned about her.
(DD)Yeah, he looked really worried and was constantly looking toward the restrooms to wait for Kate to come back out.
(A)She vomited quite a bit, and everything she ate came back up. Even after all of it came up, she was still dry heaving. I hope she’s okay. I’ll even visit her and make sure she’s alright.
(B)I’ll visit her, too. I’m sure we’ll all want to visit her.
(L)Absolutely, but for now, she should rest and Merig will take care of her.
(G)So what do we do now?
(A)I guess we can either stay here and hang out or leave, whatever we want to do. I guess I'll stay here.
(L)I'll stay here with you.
(S)I'll go and get the medicine for Kate and go visit her with Nessa.
(B)I'll go with you if that's okay.
(S)Of course, I’ll need help, anyway.
(B)Sure thing.
(G)I guess I'll stay here and hang out with you and Larry.
(A)Fine by me.
(C)Deirdre and I will be leaving. I plan on taking her somewhere special since I didn't get to yesterday.
(A)Alright, we'll see you all later, then.
(B)Yep, see you both later.
As the evening draws to a close, the group slowly disperses, leaving behind only Ashley, Larry, and Gordo, who linger at the pub, lost in conversation. Meanwhile, Barth and Sarah slip out of the pub, bound for the healer to collect medicine from Nessa and then pay a house call to Kate and Merig, determined to assess Kate's condition and offer their support. Elsewhere, Cormac and Deirdre make their way to a secret destination, a promise fulfilled. Cormac's gentle voice instructs Deirdre to close her eyes, and she obliges, trusting him completely. He takes her hand, leading her through the afternoon forest, the spring trees looming above them. They pause just beyond the ancient walls of Tara, the forest's beauty enveloping them. Cormac stands before her, his voice low and mysterious, as he begins to speak.
(C)Alright, we’re here. Open your eyes.
Deirdre follows Cormac's instructions, her eyes fluttering open to reveal the surrounding trees and bushes, and suddenly, the location dawns on her. For a brief moment, she remains quiet, her expression tinged with anxiety as she glances up at Cormac. Concern fills her gaze and a hint of dread colors her voice as she addresses him.
(DD)The forest? Why are we out here? Cormac, I’m scared.
(C)Don’t be scared, Deirdre. I’m not going to let anything happen to you. I brought you out here for a reason. Look around, the spring flowers are out and I remember you told me that coming out here and picking flowers was your favorite thing to do. Well, I brought you out here so that you could do it again and this time, I’ll be right here and I’ll protect you if anything happens. I don’t want you to be afraid to do something you love, and I’ll come out here with you so you can and feel safe doing it.
(DD)[smiles] Oh, Cormac, you’d really do that for me?
(C)Of course.
(DD)I don’t know what to say. This is really sweet of you, Cormac. I do miss coming out here and picking flowers. It’s been so long.
(C)Then come with me and we’ll walk through the trees and flowers together. I promise I’ll be here with you the whole time.
(DD)[smiles] Okay, come on, I’ll show you the best spots to gather from.
Deirdre and Cormac stroll hand in hand, sauntering through the lush meadow as they take in the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers. Deirdre's face radiates joy, her eyes sparkling like dew-kissed petals as she bends to pick each bloom, inhaling their sweet fragrance and sharing her delight with Cormac. Her smile stretches from ear to ear, infectious and carefree. Cormac watches her, entranced, his heart swelling with affection. Then, he spots a majestic white daisy, its petals shimmering like silk in the fading light. He kneels, gently plucks the flower, and rises to present it to Deirdre. She admires its beauty, her gaze meeting Cormac's as he stands before her, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiles. With tender fingers, he tucks the daisy behind her ear, the delicate petals framing her face. The two lock eyes, lost in the depths of each other's souls, as Cormac speaks, his words barely above a whisper, his voice filled with emotion.
(C)Beautiful.
(DD)[smiles] Why, thank you, I’m really having fun being here with you. I almost forgot how much fun it was being out here and looking at all the flowers and smelling each one. But I never forgot how wonderful they smell.
(C)I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself, Deirdre. I’m sorry if being out here scared you at all.
(DD)I’ll admit, it brought back the memory of what happened to me. But I still see the beauty in this forest and I don’t feel so afraid anymore, especially with you here.
(C)That’s good, but I’m sorry if it reminded you of what happened.
(DD)It’s okay, it’s not so bad anymore, not since I met you, Cormac. You’ve really helped me forget the pain and I can’t thank you enough.
(C)I’m just curious. How, exactly, did I help you?
(DD)The truth is, when I first met you at the flower shop, you were very kind to me and even complimented me. I saw your scar, and I was curious about what happened to you. So one day when I saw Kate, I asked her if she knew who you were and your story. To my surprise, she did, and she told me everything. It made me sympathize with you because I finally met someone that I could relate to, and who could understand the pain I went through. Our scars tell a story of the horrible things that happened and how we got them. But it also lets people know that we survived and that we’re still alive to see another day. I accepted Kate’s invitation and saw you at the wedding and got to know you more, and you remembered me, and you were still very kind to me. So I wasn’t disappointed at all, especially when we danced together. You were such a gentleman. Even though you did terrible things in the past, you realized it was wrong, and you changed your ways and atoned for what you did. That’s an admirable thing.
(C)When you showed me your scar, I had a feeling that you had a tragic story to go with it, just like me. I didn’t hesitate to ask, and I was more than willing to listen. I’ll be honest, it really broke me when you told me what happened to you, and I was so angry at the bandits who did that to you. From then on, after you told me everything, I felt I had to be the one to make you happy again. Because you didn’t deserve to have that happen to you, Deirdre.
(DD)You didn’t deserve to be hurt, either, Cormac, and my heart broke for you too when Kate told me your story. I wanted to do my best to make you happy as well, even though you aren’t happy with yourself for the things you did.
(C)You've made me very happy since I met you. You accepted me and took care of me when you didn't have to.
(DD)You've made me very happy, too. I want to see the beauty in this world for what it still is, and I don’t want my past to stop me from seeing it. In a world that can be so dark, there’s so much light and beauty still here that we fail to see. Because of you, I’m still able to see it again and feel the light’s warmth, and it makes me happy again. Thank you, Cormac, for bringing me out here. It still brings me joy to see the flowers bloom in the spring out here in the wild, even after all these years and even after what happened to me.
Deirdre's voice quivers, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears that spill down her cheeks as she gazes at the beauty of nature enveloping them. Turning her gaze back to Cormac, she catches his concerned look as he notices her tears. With a tender touch, he cradles her face in his hands, a warm smile spreading across his lips. As he wipes away her tears with gentle strokes, a soft smile begins to bloom on Deirdre's face in response.
(C)I’m glad I could help you see the beauty that’s still in this world. But honestly, all you had to do was look in the mirror to see the most beautiful flower that has ever bloomed. I’m glad I could show you the light in the darkness that you’ve been hiding in for so long because I want to see you happy. You don’t have to be afraid anymore, not while I’m here. Because I’ll never let anything bad happen to you again.
(DD)[smiles] I trust you, Cormac, because I feel safer with you, and I’m just now realizing something. You didn’t just show me the light in the darkness. You became my light in the darkness. I’m no longer afraid to be here, as long as you’re here with me.
(C)I'll always be here with you, as long as you want me to be, and as long as you need me.
(DD)I find myself always needing you and wanting you to be here with me. Just please don't leave me alone, Cormac.
(C)If that's what you want, then I'm here. I'm not going anywhere, Deirdre, I promise.
Cormac and Deirdre remain locked in a gaze, tears cascading down Deirdre's cheeks like a gentle rain. With a tender touch, Cormac brushes them away once again. In a moment of vulnerability, Deirdre steps closer, her arms opening wide as she envelops him in a warm embrace, burying her face against his chest. Cormac holds her tightly, offering solace as she weeps softly into his arms, their connection deepening as they savor the comfort of each other's presence. Meanwhile, at the cozy home of Kate and Merig, Nessa and Sarah have come to visit, bringing along medicine for Kate. Barth accompanies them, and they all gather in the serene atmosphere of Kate and Merig's bedroom. Sitting up in bed, Kate is being gently examined by Nessa, who provides her with relief for her nausea and vomiting.
(K)Thank you, Nessa.
(N)Of course, love, I know you came to me the other day about the nausea, but you didn’t mention vomiting.
(K)The vomiting just started when we were at the pub today after Merig’s knighting ceremony. Merig checked my head and said I have a fever.
(N)He’s right, you do. It could be a stomach bug, but it’s hard to tell. It’s a good idea to stay in bed for a couple of days, just in case.
(K)[sigh] Alright, as much as I hate it, I’ll rest. I do feel dizzy when I stand sometimes and I feel cold.
(N)Just keep taking the medicine I gave you and it should clear up soon. Do you need someone here with you?
(K)No, everyone is busy as it is, I don’t want to be a bother to anyone.
(M)You’re not going to be a bother, sweetheart, you’re sick. I’ll take a few days off if I have to.
(K)But you’re taking Barth out to the forest tomorrow to fight bandits and Cormac is starting his training at the training grounds.
(M)I can always have Gordo come over and check on you, or even Ash.
(S)I’d be happy to come see you each day and make sure you’re okay.
(K)I guess I have no choice in the matter.
(M)Sweetheart, I’m not leaving you here alone while you’re sick. I’ll stay home and take care of you. That is my job as your husband.
(N)He’s right and if you get worse, someone should be here to help you.
(B)You’d do the same if it was one of us. We don’t want you to be here alone while you’re feeling this way, sis.
(K)[sigh] Alright alright, I get it. As long as it doesn’t take too much time out of your day, honey.
(M)Honey, I have my duties in the guards and I have duties here as well because you’re the woman I love. It wouldn’t be taking any time out of my day if I’ve dedicated my time to you, my wife.
(B)That’s right and you’re second to none. Your wedding vows are proof of that.
(S)The goblins are right again, Kate.
(K)[giggles] That happens quite often. Alright, my love, I shall stay home and rest while you take care of me. I appreciate everything you’re all doing for me. I hate that I’m sick like this.
(M)I don’t like it any more than you do, sweetheart, so that’s why I want to be here and help you get better.
(N)And that’s why Sarah and I are here so that we can help, too.
(B)And big brother-in-law Barth is here for support, as usual.
(K)But again, you were supposed to take Barth out into the forest tomorrow and train Cormac.
(M)Don’t worry, I’ll have Larry and Ash go out in the forest to show Barth the ropes. Gordo can be the one to train with Cormac.
(B)Everything will be alright, I’m sure everyone will want to come and see how you’re doing tomorrow, so expect some visitors.
(K)Only if you all want to.
(B)Of course, we do. We’re worried about you, too, sis.
(S)He’s absolutely right. How are you feeling right now?
(K)I feel fine now, the nausea is still there but not as bad. I vomited everything I ate today, so I’m a little hungry, but I don’t want to eat anything heavy.
(M)I’ll cook you something, maybe I can learn how to make your soup.
(K)It’s just a simple chicken soup recipe, I have it somewhere.
(M)Alright, you leave it to me, sweetheart, just focus on feeling better. I'll be here for the rest of the day and most of the day tomorrow. I just need to let Larry know what’s going on first.
(K)Okay, my love, and thank you again, Nessa and Sarah.
(N)No problem at all, it’s our job to help people feel better, and I didn’t mind making a house call for you, hon. Just rest and you’ll get taken care of.
(K)I like taking care of others and I feel selfish about needing help.
(M)You need to be taken care of, too, honey, and you’re not selfish for needing to get better if you’re sick.
(B)We know you’re usually the one helping and taking care of others, but you’re no different and if you need help, then we’re here, sis. We won’t stand by and watch you suffer and not help you. We love you too much.
(K)I love you all, too, thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you and I’m very grateful that you’re here.
(S)We’ll always be here, Kate. You’re just as important to us as we are to you.
(M)That’s right and you’re more important to me since you’re my wife.
(K)You all are going to make me cry. I guess I better make myself comfy.
(M)Just think, I’ll be here spending time with you and helping you feel better.
(K)[smiles] You know how much I love spending time with you, my love.
(M)I’ll enjoy it as well, but I’ll also be happy when you’re not sick.
(K)I know, honey, and I appreciate everything you do for me. I love you so much.
(M)I love you, too, sweetheart.
(N)That’s our cue to leave then, rest easy, and drink plenty of fluids. I’ll leave these tablets here for you to take for the nausea. The vomiting can’t be helped. Unfortunately, something is upsetting your stomach, but it should clear up soon if it is a stomach bug. Eat plenty of protein and broth, so you at least have something on your stomach. If you’re experiencing any pain, just sit in a hot bath. Doctor’s order.[wink]
(K)[smile] Yes ma’am, I’ll remember all of that and I’ll do what Merig tells me to. Thank you again. I’m just hoping this will pass.
(N)Me too. Take care of this woman, Merig, and I’ll see you all later. I'll try to concoct something for the vomiting, but it'll take time. If anything serious happens, bring her to me.
(M)Will do that, Nessa, thank you, it means a lot that you came here. I’ll take good care of my wife.
(S)I’ll be leaving as well. Get better soon, Kate.
(K)Thanks, Sarah, I appreciate you being here, too.
(S)Of course, you’re my best friend and I’ll always be here for you.
(B)Same here, you take care, sis. We love you. I’ll come visit when I can.
(K)Alright Barth, love you, too. Thank you for coming to see me.
(B)Of course, we’ll see you later.
(K)I’ll see you all later.
Nessa, Sarah, and Barth wrap up their farewells, stepping out of Kate and Merig’s bedroom and descending the staircase before leaving the house. Meanwhile, Merig remains behind to tend to Kate, preparing a soothing hot bath for her and whipping up her famous chicken soup recipe as she unwinds in the tub. Later that evening, after they’ve both enjoyed their meal, Kate and Merig snuggle into bed, with Merig enveloping Kate in the blanket, gently massaging her back to bring her comfort and warmth.
(M)Are you feeling any better?
(K)Yes, my love, a lot better than I was earlier. The medicine Nessa gave me really helped the nausea and everything you did helped a lot. You holding me and keeping me warm is helping a lot, too, especially with you rubbing my back.
(M)Then I won’t stop and I’ll keep doing it until you fall asleep.
(K)I still can’t help but feel awful that your special day was cut short because of me.
(M)Sweetheart, nothing else matters if something bad is happening to you, special day or not. I care more about you than anything and besides, I’m already knighted. Even if it happened during the ceremony, I still would have stopped everything to make sure you were okay.
(K)Oh honey, I wouldn’t have wanted you to do that. I would’ve quietly excused myself before I let it ruin your ceremony.
(M)And have you gotten sick while no one was there to help you? I wouldn’t have wanted that, either. Like I said, I care more about you than anything and we were at the pub celebrating, so it was no big deal that we left early.
(K)And I wanted so badly for you to make love to me wearing your light armor. You look so handsome in it.
(M)[chuckles] We can still just make love, as long as you’re feeling alright to do so. If you’re still feeling nauseous or in pain, then we won’t do anything until you’re feeling better.
(K)This is why I love you so much. You care so much about me and you’re willing to drop everything to care for me.
(M)Of course, I would. Why wouldn’t I? You’re my wife, the woman I love, the love of my life, and someone I care about and love more than anything in this world. I’ll always take care of you and I’ll always be here if you need me. That’s what it means to love someone.
(K)You’ve shown me that every day and I’m so grateful to you and I appreciate everything you do for me. You’re the goblin I love and I care about you, too. I’ll always be here to take care of you, just as you’ve taken care of me.
(M)You’ve taken such good care of me, sweetheart, more than I think I deserve, but I appreciate every bit of care that you show me.
(K)We take care of each other. You’re my husband, so it’s my job just as much as it is yours.
(M)That’s right, and there isn’t anything that I wouldn’t do for you as long as you’re taken care of and happy.
(K)I know, my love, I’d do the same for you and that would make me happy as well.
(M)I know you would and that’s why I love you, among other things.
(K)[giggles] I love you, too, honey. Are you sure you want to spend a few days here and miss out on guard duties?
(M)I’m positive, sweetheart, Larry and Ash can take care of things while I’m here taking care of you. Gordo and Cormac will do just fine at the training grounds, training Cormac, and I'll be here with you. You know them. If anything goes wrong, they've got it handled.
(K)Okay, my love, I’m sorry that I’m sick. I didn’t mean for this to happen.
(M)You have nothing to apologize for, things happen and you’re just like everyone else, you get sick and your body experiences things like this. You can’t help it any more than anyone else can and you have to rest so your body can work on healing itself.
(K)You’re right, but I still feel bad and I can’t help it.
(M)I know you can’t, honey, and it’s okay, just know that I’m not upset with you whatsoever. I get to lie here and hold you so you can get warm and feel better. I’ll kiss you and rub your back and whatever else you need me to do.
(K)I know you will, just don’t completely neglect your guard duties just for me. If you’re needed, I’ll be just fine here until you get back.
(M)Alright, sweetheart, as long as you’re okay with being here alone if anyone needs me.
(K)I’m perfectly fine with that. I’m sure everyone will be coming to visit me like Barth said, so I won’t be completely alone.
(M)Good, cause you’re never alone.
(K)I know and I’m very fortunate and blessed and lucky to not be alone in my life.
(M)So am I, 'cause when I’m with you, I’m never alone, either.
(K)Exactly, my love, our souls and bodies are intertwined, remember? We are a unit, we are equal.
(M)That we are, I love you so much, my moon.
(K)I love you, too, my earth. I’m getting sleepy. It’s so warm under this blanket with you holding me.
(M)Let’s get some sleep, then. Goodnight, my beautiful wife.
(K)Goodnight, my wonderful husband.
Kate and Merig gaze into each other's eyes, their smiles radiating warmth as Merig leans in for a tender goodnight kiss. With a gentle motion, he reaches for the blanket, pulling it closer around Kate to envelop her in comfort while he holds her snugly, ensuring she stays warm. Kate nestles against him, finding her perfect spot before they both close their eyes, surrendering to the embrace of sleep.