The Tempest of Eerikki - Book One - THE PANACEA QUEST

Chapter 15

It took two full days to return all to Eerikki. The tension within the elite nine during this time was unmistakable, they felt that they had let down their Captain and most of all Tempie. William was almost grateful when they were attacked by not only one but two more tribes of the dishonoured. Absolutely no mercy was shown to any. Those stupid enough to attack falling before getting anywhere near the three they protected at the centre of their impromptu caravan, all warriors taking the greatest pleasure in dispatching any who came near.

Jian, Raven and Dunkin preferred to stay within the trees to 'collect any stragglers' the younger warriors needing to express their frustration in not being able to defend their Captain.

Upon their return, the healer pronounced that he had done all he could for Batair stating his injuries were so severe that it amazed him he was still alive. He had little hope for his recovery and bid them all pray to the Goddess. Both Lady Corina and King Rhain were distraught at the possible loss of not only a son but a great warrior and Captain. Each taking turns to stay at his bedside.

The healer had visited Tempie and Mistress Averta who were both staying within the Sword Masters Chambers. William was letting neither out of his sight. While Averta was severely exhausted and suffering some emotional distress. They could not say the same for Tempie. The healer had reported that while she might not have been raped, her torture had been obvious.

Tempie refused to speak with anyone about what had occurred and before there was an opportunity for any to ask, she had extracted a vow from Averta that she would not speak of it either. Not even Rheinhold or Lachlan could get her to talk.

Drawn to the training fields, she would practice alone there was always four of the elite close by.

Early hours of the fifth night of their return, after another nightmare Tempie rose from her sleeping furs walked through the chambers to see Averta laying in Williams protective embrace. She then continued to the outer chamber where she where Valiant and Xear

stood stag. Turning to them she proclaimed, "I go to Batair."

Before they could protest, she was striding towards the healer's rooms. The two big warriors could do nothing but walk beside her. None spoke. Tempie did not knock on Healer Coran's door, knowing he would be asleep she opened the door and walked in. They went to follow.

"Wait here." She commanded both men obeyed.

The room was dark the only light soft glowing coals in the hearth, crossing the room she went to Batair's side.

"Wake up." She whispered grabbing his hand she commanded. "Wake Up." No response broth forth her tears. "Oh Mother, please help me." With tear-stained cheeks she placed her head on to the furs.

Suddenly she found herself not alone. "Why do you cry my sister?" Tempie lifted her head to see the appearance of her beautiful sister Rhiannon.

"He is hurt, he saved me, help me save him." Tempie pleaded.

"We can try, but it will take us both and he must want to return." Rhiannon took Tempie's hand and together they fed as much of their love and healing power into his body as they could.

When there was no more, they could give, Rhiannon hugged her little sister and bid her curl up beside Batair under his furs.

Tempie's last memory before sleep overtook her was of Rhiannon kissing her forehead wishing her good tidings. "Be well little

sister."

Lady Corina drew the furs around Batair and Tempie. Neither little Goddess had known she was present to witness the healing of her son from the darkness of the far corner.

"Praise be the Goddess," Lady Corina whispered, leaving the room unobserved.