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As the three friends start the final leg of their joiurney to castle Ravenstone, Culpeper pulls the hood up on his cloak. The two Rangers ride on either side of him so that others do not get close to him. As they approach the Castle and surrounding Town they head for the local stable and Inn. The horses and horse gear are checked into the stable. They next go to find an Inn to stay at. The two Rangers continue to walk on either side of Culpeper to discourage people from talking to him. Once at the Inn they get two rooms. "We need to get up to the Castle and let the Chamberlain know we are here. Hopefully he will be able to get is in to to see the King today" Jonny informs Culpeper. Mirian gives him a hug and A kiss, looks up to him, "will you be alright here in the room by yourelf? I really don't advise going around town by yourself. One of us should be with you in case of trouble." He returns the kiss, replying, "Don't worry, I am not eager to get in to a confrontatiin with the Healers or the Shields. I will wait here, probably take a nap." The two Rangers exhange a look, before walking out the door.

They walk thru the busy, crowded streets. People moving everywhere, Vendors and street hawkers, selling their wares. People going about their business. They also note a large number of Clerics and Paladins in armor with their weapons ready to hand. The two Rangers don't like the number they are seeing.

As they approach the bridge going into the Castle, they note the long line of people, carts, wagons and animals in line for entry. Being Rangers they do not have to wait in line. As they walk along the line a few people mumble, once they see the Ranger Broaches they quite down again.

As they approah the walkway into the Castle, one of the Gaurds attempt to stop the two Rangers. "I am Ranger Mirian and this is Ranger Jonny. We are here to see the Chamberlain to set an appointment with the King." The Gaurd looks them up and down, not impressed. "I don't care who you are, you need to go thru the line and wait your turn to seek entry to the Castle!" The two Rangers look at the Gaurd with amusement, "he must be new," Mirian mumbles to Jonny. Their is a Sargent not to far away who hears the exchange. He trots over bellowing at the Gaurd, "These are Rangers! You will let them pass!" Turning to the Rangers he asks, "May I point out your Broaches with the Ranger Guild emblem to this soldier so that he will know them in the future?" Mirian points to the broach that clasps her cloak around her throat. "That, soldier, is the Ranger emblem. nobody interferes with them when they are on a mision. Figure if they are here they're either on a mission or are reporting in from a mision. Is that clear soldier?" "Yes Sargent!" bellows the soldier in return. The Sargent nods, turns to the Rangers, "My apologies Rangers, he is new here and must not have learned your emblem yet." Mirian and Jonny look at the Sargent with some amusement, as they do not take themslves that seriously unless the situation warrants it. "Alright Sargent, he's got it now, he just didn't know. We will be moving along now." As they continue on their way they hear the Sargent tell the Soldier, "You got lucky, those two are the understanding types. People less important than Rangers would have demanded your head. Tell your Corporal you need time with the insignia book." The Sargent continues on his way.

They reach the Chamberlains office. Their are two Gaurds standing outside his office door. The Chamberlain instructed them that he did not want to be disturbed for another hour. But these are Rangers, nobody tells them to wait. The two Rangers can see that the Gaurds are uncomfortable, ask what the conern is. The older looking gaurd replies, "The Lord Chamberlain told us he did not want to be disturb for another hour, but you are Rangers, no one tells Rangers to wait except the King." Once again they look at each, shake their heads. Mirian looks to Jonny, "we can wait an hour can't we?" Jonny trying his best to look serious, asks her, "I hear they have pretty good bread with cheese and meat here at the castle. Think they would round us up a some? That should take about an hour, that should keep everyone happy." The younger Gaurd goes a short ways down the hall, opens a door, speaks to those inside. He steps back opening the door wider, A Teen aged girl comes out, walks up to the Rangers. "Robie tells me you two would like to get A platter of bread with cheese and meat brought up here?" Jonny, mouth watering just thinking about it says, "that would be very nice. If they have juice that woud be nice also, if not water please" " very good, sir, lady." the girl goes back down the hall and thru the door she came from. Jonny and Mirian sit at a table nearby to wait. While waiting they casually chat like the old friends that they are. A few minutes later the girl comes back with a platter of sliced bread, cheeses and meats, along with some grapes and water. They thank the girl and work on the platter while chatting.

Just as they are finishing the platter Fredico, the Kings Chamberlain, opens his office doors. Looking around he sees the two Rangers sitting with a used platter between them. He wheels on the Gaurds, "Why are there two Rangers sitting outside my office!?! They should have been shown in right away, Why did you make them wait?!?" demands the Chamberlain. Before the Gaurds coud nswer Jonny and Mirian step forward, getting the Chamberlains attention. Mirian, using command voice, tells the Chamberlain, "When we arrived here we saw that your door was closed. We assumed you were busy. We asked the Guards to summon a page so we could get some food. It was A long journey and we were hungry. Now that we have eaten and your door is open may we step into your office?" It wasn't really a quetion as she turns to the now open doors. The Chamberlain hussles to get in front of the Rangers so as to led them into his office. As they pass the Gaurds they mouth the word, 'Thanks!' Mirian winks at them and Jonny gives them a thumbs up.

Without waiting to be offered a seat the two Rangers seat themselves across from the Chamberlains desk. Mirian speaks first still using a serious tone to her voice, "we are here to give report to the king. When may we get in to see him?" The Chamberlain is not used to being spoken to like this and is taken back by her curt mannerism. "The earliest I will be able to get you in is this afternoon at the fifteenth bell." "Thank you. We will be at the kings recieving room at fifteen bells." The two Rangers get up and leave the Chamberlains office.

As they leave the Castle returning to the Inn where Culpeper awaits, jonny comments with amusement, "I belive you hurt the Chamberlains feelings back there." Mirian looks at him sideways, "There was no need for him to talk to the gaurds like that. Ever since Ridera passed away and we got this new Chamberlain, I have been hearing rumors about the Castle staff and Gaurds being unhappy. We just got a sample of why." Jonny looks serious as he replies, "You know, I have heard some of those rumors also. Do you believe the king is aware? We could ask for a private audience with him this afternoon." Taking a few more steps she replies, "that might be a good idea. We cannot have unhappy troops gaurding the Castle and the king." They walk in friendly, silent companionship the rest of the way to the Inn.

As Mirian and Jonny walk into the room Culpeper sits up in bed, Mace in hand. "Relax Culpeper it is only us." Mirian says. Culpeper swings his legs over the side of the bed putting his boots on. Standing up he clips the mace to his belt. "I'm hungry," declares Culpeper, "lets go get some food. There are a few good Ale houses around here." He stands up, ready to go. The Rangers notice that when he walks towards the door, he no longer has his cloak on. Jonny looks to Mirian with raised eyebrows, she looks back, shrugs her shoulders. Mirian steps in front of him to block his path, "Culpeper? Did you want to wear your cloak? With the hood?" He smiles down at her, "no dear, I do not. I new coming here I would have to deal with the Healers and Shields. Might as well get it over with. I can hold my own with the Clerics. The Shields I worry about. Besides," he says with a crooked smile, "who is going to fuck with me with two Rangers walking with me?" The three friends give a semi amused, semi nervous chuckle as they walk out the door.

They were barely outside the Inn when Culpeper was recoginized. "Culpeper! Formerly of the Order of Healers, What are you doing here? Did you come to watch another Paladin die? Perhaps a Cleric this time. Perhaps the King himself? why are you here, betrayer?" Demands A Cleric who is quickly approaching the group, Three more Clerics following in his wake. Mirian and Jonny step in front of Culpeper, blocking the Priests fom getting to him. Jonny is all business now, a side of him Culpeper has not seen before. He is happy to be be seeing it now! "Halt!" Barks Jonny, The four Priests come to a stop almost nose to nose with Jonny and Mirian. "We are not going to have a problem here are we." The way Jonny says it makes it clear that was a statement, not question. The Clerics huff and puff before their leader is finally able to get out, "Who are you and how dare you interfere with the Order of Healers." Together the two Rangers point to their Broaches with the Ranger emblem on them. The clerics look from the emblems to the Rangers, to Culpeper. The Cleric spokesman points at Culpeper demanding, "do you know what this...man... did? He betrayed a member of the Timeless Shields and let him die. For this he was tried and found guilty of failing in his responsibilities. He has been stripped of his Priestly rights." The Rangers stand their ground looking at the Priests to see if the are done. Seeing that they are Jonny informs the Priests, "this man is our friend. We would take it very personally if something happned to him." Jonny locks eyes with the Priest leader, making sure he gets the message. "I am Ranger Jonny, This is Ranger Mirian. We along with our friend will only be here for two days, three tops. Tell both the Healers and the Shields he is under the protection of Ranger Jonny and Ranger Mirian. we do not want any Priests or Paladins coming up ...injured...do we?" Th priests are shocked by the open threat upon themselves and their allies. The Lead Priest looks at Mirian, "Are you the Ranger Mirian that casts Clerical spells like she believes she should be a Priestess herself?" Mirian can feel Culpeper behind her wanting to step forward and deal with these Priests himself. 'How dare they talk to her like this? Do they not know she could probally take on all four of them by herself? They only thing Jonny and I would be doing is cheering her on.' Mirians tone of voice as she replies makes it clear that she is not amused. "Yes, I am Ranger who casts clerical spells. As my friend Jonny just said, we would take it personally if our friend got hurt." Mirian and Jonny walk thru the Priests like they are not even there, Culpeper right behind them. As the Priests watch them walk away their leader orders them back to their church to tell the High Priestess what has just happened. The Shields also. The Priests turn and hurry back the way they came. The lead Priest orders one of the Junior Priests to follow them

As they are walking away the Rangers look over their shoulders and smirk. "Not very good is he?" asks Jonny as the Rangers spot the Priest following them. The three friends walk a short ways to a Ale House. Once inside Culpeper orders two meat and cheese pies, all three order ale. "Not as hungry as I thought," declares Culpeper. "Would one of you like the other one?" As Jonny reaches for it, the door opens, in comes Three Paladins of the Order of the Timeless Shields. Two stay by the door while the third, a female, approaches the table. Jonny's hand stops half way to the pie. With her bow in hand Mirian stands and clears the bench she was sitting on. Making a show of reaching up to her Quiver. "Stop their Paladin! We told the Priests already, now we tell you, this man is our friend and under our protection. We will take it very personal if something happens to him." The Paladin stops with her face in the shadows , asks, "Mirian, is that anyway to talk to an old friend?" Mirian lowers her hand, signals for the two men to stand down. "Riedera? you old bitch! is that you?!?" Everyone in the room is surprised to hear A Paladin addressed in such a fashion. Laughing, Riedera replies, "thats 'Lady Bitch' to you!" The two women laugh as they step closer to each other clasping hands. "how are you Riedera? whats it been two years? When we were tasked with putting a stop to the coastal raids along our southern border." The two women pause as if they went back in time to relive the past. "Mirian, I wish this was a social call, but its not. Once I heard you were here I asked where you were and was told here. With a not to popular fellow. I do believe by the way you greeted me you already know the Healers and Shields have concerns with your friend. I was sent to 'talk to that Bitch Ranger' and her friend about protecting him." Riedera pauses to point towards Culpeper. Culpeper and Jonny move to stand by Mirian. As they move the two Paladins by the door start to move forward, Riedera holds up a hand stopping them. "Look," starts Jonny, "we are likely to only be here a few days at the most. You tell all these Holy people that have an attitude with our friend they have two choices when it comes to him being in Town." He stops to make sure all three Paladins are looking at him. " One, they can get over it, or two, they can get used to it. We don't care which." Culpeper looks at Jonny, 'I like this man more all the time.' The two Paladins at the back of the room mumble angrily looking at Jonny. Mirian puts a hand on Jonny's arm, "Lets hear what she has to say. She is usually a fair and reasonable woman." The three friends look to Ridera, Mirian looking hopeful, Jonny looking looking angry, Culpeper looking concerned. "Thank you Mirian, yes I have been sent to talk to you about thr former Priest known as Culpeper. Neither the Healers nor the Shields are happy with his presence here. Usually when someone is banishedfrom one of our Orders, they do not come back to the town they were banished from." Mirian looks to Culpeper for a response. Cuper looks defiantly at the Paladin, "I was only banished from the Order. I was never told I could not come here again." Riedera looks over her shoulder at the other Paladins as they shuffle their feet angrily. Riedera looks at Jonny, then the two Paladins Looks over Mirians should, "Innkeeper, is there a room that I and these three may speak privately?" The Innkeeper looks doubtful for a moment, "Look Innkeeper, you have two unhappy Rangers and two pissed off Paladins. Is that a fight you want breaking out in your Inn? let us borrow a room for a short while and seperate the two groups. I know I wouldn't want to be in a buiding with two Rangers and two Paladins going full tilt at each other." The Innkeeper looks at the two groups again and points towards a door to the side of the room. "Thank you," replies Riedera to the gesture.

Riedera leads them to the room pointed out by the Innkeeper. As they enter the dark room, Jonny turns back, ready to ask for a lamp. Don't states Culpeper. Culpeper turns towards the Paladin Riedera, "Paladin, watch what I am about to do and report it back to both the Healers nd the Shields." Culpeper sees Riedera watching him closely as he unclips his Mace from his belt. Riedera puts her hand on her sword as Culpeper raises the mace so that the Head is up. "Ragnok please grant us light so we may see in this darknes," his hand starts to glow as he rubs it over the Head of the Mace, the light moving from his hand to the Mace Head. Riedera turns to Mirian, "Everytime I come around you something interesting happens. Couldn't we just once have a normal encounter?" She turns to Culpeper now, "I was informed that you were expelled from the Order of the Healers, banished. That sounded like a Clerical spell. If you were banished how can you still cast Clerical spells? I didn't know that could happen...?" Culpeper looks to Mirian to see if how much he shouild tell the Paladin. Mirian looks between them, tells Culpeper, "you can trust her. She will only share what you give permission to share." Culpeper looks to his two companions, then turns to Riedera. "Yes, I was expelled or banished, same thing. The Healers put on a sham trial, banished me. Simply put Ragnok, did not agree with the Church. I may have lost my role in the Church, but not my role for her. I still heal for her and tell her stories. I live as a common Healer now, by her grace, I can still cast all levels of spells. Ragnok has forgiven me for my error, but some people have not." Riedera, shakes her head, looks at Mirian again, "Just once Mirian! once! I would like to have a normal encounter with you. It really does not have to be a full blown adventure!" she says with exasperation. "Culpeper, is there more we should know. You want me to tell all of that to both the Healers and the Shields, Plus tell them I saw you cast a spell?" Culpeper looks to Mirian and Jonny. Mirian looks back smiling encouragement, Jonny tells him, "its your decision, we will support you whatever you decide. just remember these pople have already not been fair with you." Culpeper looks back to her, "Paladin, Riedera, Mirian tells us you are fair and resonable person." He heitates for a moment before asking, "What do you believe there response will be?" Riedera looks at all three of them before replying, "I have no idea how they will respond. I am not aware of anything like this happening before. there is no precedence for something like this. I suspect some will respond with, 'uh oh, we made a mistake,' others are likely to believe you are pulling some kind of trick on them and still others will not know what to believe." She shakes her head then says with a chuckle, "I am so glad I am the one who gets to tell them all this. Otherwise I wouldn't get to see their faces." The four of smile briefly, then Jonny asks, "so...what are we going to do about people have a problem with him being here?" Riedera looks to the door, knowing the two Paladins are probably right on the other side. Well...I am one of the Senior Paladins in the area, so I can tell them to leave him alone for, maybe three or four days. That was the compromise that we came up with. As for the Healers, I have no real influence over them. How they will respond is Ragnoks guess alone. Culpeper, the mere fact that you still have your Clerical powers tells me they were wrong about you. I hope more will feel that way when they find out about this." She reaches out to shake his hand. He takes it gladly, 'I won't call her friend yet, but I wont call her enemy either.' Riedera, addresses the group. I am going to go out and tell those two to stand down and pass the word that you are not to be harrassed or bothered by the Order of the Timeless Shields. Please wit in here for a fewmoments to give me time." Riedera turns and walks out of the room. Mirian Turns to Culpeper, "Thats great news! Riedera is a well known member of the Shields. She will be believed when she tells them you still have your powers. Culpeper puts his arms around her, "It really does not matter at this time, I will never be going back to the Order, I would have to leave you, My Healers cottage and all my new friends," He pats Jonny on the arm. "I have grown to love my new life. short of Ragnok telling me too, I will never go back. I am becoming the Ranger loving, Adventuring Healer!"

As the three friends walk back to the Inn, They notice some people wearing the Timeless Shields emblem. They people stare at them but do not approach. "Your friend Riedera is true to her word. She said she would have the Paladins leave us alone and they are." states Jonny. "I wounder how the Healers are going to react." Wonders Mirian out loud."

Back in the Mirian and Culpepers room they hear the 13th bell sound. Mirian suggests a nap before meeting with the King. "Nap?" Snickers Jonny, "You are going to 'try and make a baby!'" he snickers again, walking out the door. Mirian looks to Culpeper, "want to make a baby?" Culpepepr sadly shakes his head, "I don't believe I would be any good for you at this time." She takes hold of his arms, looks up to him, asks, serious but playful, "would you like a quicky blow job? I am in the mood if you are? it will be all about you. Shoot your load and we can take a nap." When theyb are done, They lay down until it is time for Mirian to go.

Jonny waits for downstairs in the common area. When he sees her coming down the stairs he gets up to greet her. "How was you nap?" he asks. She slugs him in the shoulder, "You are just jealous of him because he has a woman who wants it all the time and you dont. Lets go!" As they walk out the door Jonny rubs his shoulder. "You now thats not true. If I had a woman in my life it would cut down my adventuring...a lot" The two chat as they return to the Castle for their appoinment with the king at 15 bells. By nature they both keep a careful eye on their surroundings. They both notice the number of Priests and and Paladins in the area. While still chatting carrying on like all is normal, they give each a knowing look.

They arrive at the Castle going straight to the Kings recieving room. As they arrive the Kings secretary informs them that the Kings previous appointment is still in there, invites them to sit. They sit close to the Secretary so that they may speak to him discreetly. "Henry," starts Jonny, "what is this new Chamberlain like? He was getting onto some of the Gaurds for something we did. We didn't like what we saw." Henry looks around, making sure no one is listening, "He is a real asshole, my friends. Nobody working in the Castle likes him. He is rude, close to incompetent and believes he knows everything. I dont suppose you could disappear him?" Both of the Rangers have known Henry for a long time, even knowing he is not serious, they are still surprised to hear him say such a thing. "Is he really that bad? we already planned to talk to the King abouit him. we won't give your name but we will share your concerns." Henry still looks nervous aboiut being overheard quickly mumbles, "I truly would not be surprised if he woke up one morning not breathing!" The two Rangers move back from the secretaries desk to talk in normal tones. "Henry, whats the cook making for visitors tonight? Would it be ok if we brought a friend." Henry pauses for a moment before replying, "I have no idea what he is making for visitors tonight, as for bringing a geust, I imagine any friend of the Rangers wouldn't be told no." Mirian was getting ready to add something when the Kings audience room opened. A man that neither Ranger recoginized came strolling out past the them and the secretary. "Must have had a good meeting. Last time he came out of that room nhe didn't look so happy." The Rngers watch the mn walk away then ask together, "who is he?" Henry looks startled asking, "You don't know him? He is Lord handlin from Rothey, our neighbor to the the south. he is here trying to work out a trde agreement. Better get inside don't want to keep the king waiting.

Mirian and Jonny walk in together walk up to the stairs leading up to the podium. Together they sink down to one knee, "Greetings our Lord, we of the Rangers guild are here to present news and reports." The King looks tired, but amused with the two of them. "Yes, yes rise Mirian and Jonny. Do we have to go thru this formality everytime one of you Rangers comes here to update me on something? I have known both of you since you entered the Ranger acdemy. Cant we be friends." As senior Ranger, Mirian goes first, "Your Majesty, you are our sovereign. If you want us to be less formal send word to the Head Guildmaster in Everport." The King snorts in amusement, "Oh yes, I should send a message to your Headguildmaster saying, 'Please tell the Rangers to play nicer with me.' He would probably believe one of you slipped a drug into my wine." Both Rangers try to be serious but find it hard when King Langdor acting this way. "your Majesty," begins Jonny, "I would like to give my report first as I believe it will be shorter and less complicated." King Langdor sighs again, nodding agreement. "Very well, if you two are going to insist on being all business, lets get it over with." Jonny and Mirian look at each other as Mirian steps back, giving Jonny the floor. "Your Majesty, as you might recall, you tasked me with delivering copies of the renewed treaties recently signed by yourself, to the Inner Kingdoms. Per your instructions, I put said treaties into the hands of the three Kings Secretaries." He reaches into his couriers pouch pulling out three rolled parchents, hands them to the King. "Each secretary signed a copy acknowledging they recieved it." King Langdor takes the three Parchments, Unrolls one. "Did they have any comments?" Jonny half laughs, half coughs, "one of them doesn't like our srcibes writing style..." King Langdor looks amused for a moment. "Really? which scribe? We can have him or her do all our documents to the middle Kingdoms. Whatta think? them bastards are always fucking with the process." Now both Jonny and the King are laughing, While Mirian still tries to look serious. That is all of my report your Majesty. Ranger Mirian also has information to share with you." Jonny kneels again, steps back. Mirian steps forward, kneels again. Your Majesty I dont really have much to report, I believe you are already aware of the former drug ring in everport. Due to my helping in the busting up of that drug ring, I had a bounty put on my head. 100 gold alive, 75 dead. They are really pissed with me. Guildmaster Rudy asked me to escort Jonny here to get me out away for a while, hope things cool off. That is the end of my report." she starts to kneel again, then blurts out, "Oh! and I got married on the way here. My Husband is waiting for us at A local Inn." The king leans forward happily, "Congratulations Mirian, I did not know you were married. On the way here? Any babies in the future?" Mirian smiles up to her King, "He asked me to marry him on the way here, sir. Jonny witnessed my saying yes, so it is all legal." She kinda smirks at the King, finishes, "As for making babies sir, we are already working on that. hope to be with child soon. We will be working on it again tonight!" The king leans back in his chair letting out a full belly laugh. "Mirian my dear Ranger, I have always liked you! you tell it to me more straight than my staff. I would like the two of you and your new Husband to have a private Dinner with me tonight. I have got to meet the man who put a Ring on you." The Rangers look at each and nod. "That would be nice your Majesty. when shoud we return?" "At 18 bells", replies the King. "Very good your Majety, we will see you again at 19 bells," replies Mirian. The two Rangers exit the room.

Upon entering the room at the Inn they inform Culpeper that they are having dinner with the King at 18 bells. Informing that the King wanyts to meet him. Culpeper looks shocked, stammers out, "Why me? How did I come up in a meeting with the King?" "The King wants to meet the man who put A ring on me. The king tries to be friends with the Rangers. He feels bad about some of the missions he has to send us on, so he tries to befriend us." Culpeper still looks shocked as he says, I do not have the proper clothes to meet the King." He looks genuinely concerned about his attire. The two Rangers have a hard time not Laughing as he looks at them. "Whats so amusing? " demands Culpeper. Mirian gets herself under control, goes and wraps her arms around him, "Culpeper, my love, look how Jonny and are attired. We still have road dust on us and met with him. I promise you, he wont care." he still doesn't look completely convinced. The three friends sit in Mirians and Culpepers room until it is time to head to the Kings dinner. Culpeper asks a couple times if they can find a clothier and buy an appropriate outfit to wear to visit the King

When the three companions arrive at the Kings private dining room, they wait to be announced. "Milord! I am pleased to announce the arrival of the Rangers Mirian and Jonny. They are accompanied by the Healer Culpeper." Announces the Steward. Mirian and Jonny walk in side to side with Culpeper rigt behind them, looking nervous. The three kneel, "Greetings our lord, we have arrived as requested," they say in unison. "Oh good, my heusts have arrived." speaking to Culpeper, "You must be the Healer Culpeper. I hear you have put a ring on one of my favorite Rangers. Please, come sit next to me." Looking a little unsure Culpeper moves to sit next to the King. As soon as the three are seated King Langdor directs his attention to Culpeper. "So, lets get this foolishness out of the way. I have been informed of your status with the Ragnok church and the Priesthood. I have also been told that you still have your Clerical powers. That to me means Ragnok does not agree with her Clerics about you. I am surprised she tolerates that. But, I am just a human, who am I to question a deity? I wish to be clear Healer Culpeper, I care more what your Deity says than what men say. Your status with the Church is not my concern. The fact that you put a ring on Mirian on the other hand is of interest to me. so, unless you you want to talk about the church I dont. What say you?" Culpeper looks to Mirian and Jonny who give him encouraging nods. "No Milord, I would really rather not." The King gives him a clap on the back, "Good! As i said, get that foolishness out of the way. Now! Lets talk about you and Mirian. She tells me you are already working on children. Matter of fact she told me you two plan to work on it tonight!" At the mortified look Culpeper gives Mirian, the King breaks out into a full laugh. "My apologies Culpeper, Mirian is one of the few people who doesn't always speak formally to me, Its one of the reasons I like her so much. She will occasionally let loose with a comment or joke that causes my staff to almost faint. If you are the Husband of this fine young woman, you will need to learn how to do that also. As A Ranger I consider her and Jonny and all the Rangers as members of my counsel. I expect members to tell me when they believe I am fucking up." Again the King laughs when he sees the look on Culpepers face. Mirian and Jonny laugh also. Mirian replies to the look on Culpepers face. "No Culpeper we do not actually tell him we think he is fucking up. We will tell him why we have a concern with his current plan..." The King interupts, chuckling, "that is the polite version of, 'your fucking up' don't let them tell you otherwise." Mirian gives the King a playfull scolding look, continues, "we will tell him we have concerns with his current plan and suggest alternatives. That is part of our job as Rangers." The king continues to have fun at Culpepers expense, For the next few hours as the food and dishes are removed. Very fine wine is brought out. Well into the evening the King lets the group know it is getting late and he should be going to bed soon. "I have really enjoyed our evening but it is about bed time for me. "Mirian, Culpeper congratulations on being married. I will be very busy the next couple of days, so I may not be able to see you again before you leave. I will see to it that my personal wedding gifts are presented to you before you leave." Turning to Culpeper again, "I will also have my weaponsmaster present you with a Mace made by my Armorer. Also, after hearing about your horse trying to keep up with the Ranger horses, I will 'suggest' that A Ranger horse be 'permanently loaned' to you. By law, we cannot give you a Ranger horse but we can loan you one. Would youlike anything else from me?" he asks Culpeper. Culpeper looking very serious replies, "no Milord! A full Ranger horse and a Mace from you Armory? No, that is more than generous, Milord." King Lngdor now turns his attention to the Rangers, "Mirian, I am still worried about Everport. As you Know, I occupied the city for a short while and just recently got home. I am going to 'suggest' that you be sent to Rothey to deliver some diplomatic letters. If Culpeper would like to travel with you, that would be fine." Looking mischievously at Culpeper he continues, "I want you working on babies!" Culpeper blushes, again before replying. "Milord, if I may, I need to say no to your offer to travel with Mirian to Rothey. I need to be in Everport in ten days for A healers class being given by the Healers Guild. Learning some new Herbology usages. I am excited to take the class." The King looks genuinely disappointed says, "I understand Culpeper. Go to your class and learn lots. From what I heard tonight, you are already quite the Healer, lets make you better." He looks to the two Rangers, "as you know, Rothey doesn't like us to send more than one Ranger to their capital, So Mirian will be going alone." The King now turns to Jonny, "what are your plans?" Jonny looks to Culpeper as he replies. "I promised him that I would work with him on his Mace training on the way home. If it pleases our Lord, I will ride to Everport with Culpeper to keep working on his Mace training. Mirian trained him on the way here, I was supposed to train him on the way home." The King looks at the three with approval, "Culpeper, would you like Jonny to ride with you to Everport?" Culpeper looks back to his new friend, nods enthusiastically, "Yes Milord, I would like that very much. I would appreciate the company, and frankly I want the training that he is offering." Now the King looks to all three, "alrighty then, you have your assignments. Mirian, delivering documents to Rothey. Jonny and Culpeper riding to Everport." he nods and smiles, "Sometime tomorrow morning the Weaponmaster wil come to your Inn and present you with your new Mace. Word will be sent to Everport with my request for a Ranger horse for you." Culpeper thanks him nodding with excitement. The King turns to Mirian, "Your wedding gift will also be delivered sometime tomorrow. Do not leave before it arrives." with that the King stands, heads towards door in the back of the room. As the King stands the three friends also stand. Once the King is thru the door they head back to the Inn.

As they walk back to the Inn Culpeper is not stop chatter about how friendly the King was. How easy he was to talk to after a short while, how generous. Mirian and Jonny just smile back. Culpeper wasnt saying anything they didnt already know. As it was already getting late into the evening they go straight up to their rooms. Jonny bids them Goodnight as they are already getting frisky.

As they enter the room, they wrap around each other. "You heard what the King said?" asks Culpeper. "He wants us to make a baby. We should follow the wishes of the King!" Mirian giggles in a girlish way, something she saves for her man alone. "Culpeper, dear, I am tired tonight, can we do a quicky?" Culpeper looks down at her, "Are you ok dear? If you dont want to, we can skip tonight." Mirian smiles up at him, putting her hand on his chest. "I am fine, just tired. I want you to get off and plant a baby in me like the king said, ok? lets make it a game. lets see how fast we can take it from limp willie to spitting snake." Culpeper laughs at that, "I have never heard a quicky described that way!" She laughs with him, "well, you dont have a whole lot of experience with women, so I am not surprised." She starts removing his clothes making sure to go nowhere near his cock. Once naked he starts going up down on his toes, causing his cock to go round and round in a circle in front of him. This always gets a laugh out of her as this looks funny to her. She lets him go on like this for a short time, it really does amuse her.

The next morning, Jonny is knocking on their door shortly after sunrise. "The weaponmaster is here, requesting Culpepers company." Miran sits up laughing at Culpeper, "You slipped out of me after I fell asleep. Thats to bad, I wanted to wake up with you inside of me. Well, I suppose we should get up and see the Weaponmaster." She climbs off of Culpeper and the bed. She tells Culpeper to tell Jonny that they will be down shortly. He hesitates, picking up his pants. She laughs, "you want me to do it?" She asks, Shaking her titties at him. Laughing he replies, "no! I will talk to him." He goes to the door, cracks it open, "Jonny, please let the Weaponmaster know we will be down shortly. Jonny smirks with his reply, "will do, my friend, will do." Jonny walks off laughing.

Once the couple are dressed they come downstairs to meet the Weaponmaster. As they enter the common room they see Jonny and the Weaponmaster sharing A plate of bread, cheese and meat with tea. "greetings Ronalde, its been awhile." She walks up to them, with Culpeper in towe, grabs some bread and meat from the plate. "This is Culpeper the Healer and my Husband." Ronalde, caught with a mouthful of food stands, holds out his hand. Culpeper takes it, shakes the offered hand. With amusement Culpeper shakes his head, asks Mirian, "Is there anyone in the Castle you do not know?" Mirian takes on a thoughtful look, asks Ronalde, "When I was here last, the Chef was retiring. Has she been replaced?" Ronalde chuckles, nods his head yes. I have not met the Chef yet, although, it was probably his or herer cooking we ate last night." They chat until the shared plate is empty and the tea mugs are empty.

Now that they are ready to get down to bussines Ronalde turns to the Innkeeper. "Innkeeper, I am requesting to use your common room for awhile, to conduct the Kings business. I do not know how long we will need. I am to offer you three gold pieces to not be interrupted. How long will that buy us?" In response the Innkeeper goes to the door and bars it. "Milord, that will buy buy you a few days if you need it." Ronalde looks the two boxes he has with him, looks to Culpeper, replies, "I do not believe we will need that long. If you will please bring tea for us all then excuse yourself also." The Innkeeper gives a big grin asks, "May I leave while you conduct youir bussines?" "That would be acceptable." replies Ronald. The Innkeeper rushes off to get their tea. Upon delivering the tea, he rushes tom the back of the Inn. He reappears shortly with a change of clothes and groomed. "Pardon me" As he rushes out the door. The four of them wait until the door is closed then laugh. "Ronalde, I do believe you have made that mans day. Three Gold Pieces and the morning off. I do believe their is a lady out there who is about to get a surprise visit!" The four laugh again, then get down to business

"Culpeper, the King has tasked me with giving you the best possible Mace you can have. As my wedding gift to you, I have brought some Bucklers." He goes to the first box that he brought with him, opens it. Their are several different maces, he lays them out on a table. "Let me see your Mace, Culpeper." Culpeper hands over his Mace. As Ronalde examines it, he sees it is a very simple one. A shaft with a ball at the end. "This is actually a very good weapon. If the King was not offering, I would encourage you to stay with it since this is what you learned and trained on. Since the King is offering, lets find something close to it, shall we?" He hands the Mace back to Culpeper. Ronalde has him pick up and do some moves with several of the maces. They finally choose one that has a shaft of Ash wood and a Flanged head. Keeping it simple. Culpeper asks what he should do with his original Mace. The Weaponmaster and the two Ranger say together, "keep it as a back up!" Nodding his understanding, he places it by the stairs leading up to the Inn geust rooms. Ronalde and Mirian are putting the extra the Maces back into their box.

They then pull several Bucklers out of the other box. Most them are round in shape, with rises or spikes. Some were rectangular in shape. These, rectangular, ones caught Culpepers eye. He picks one up, plays with it for a moment, then tries another one. He tries a couple of the round ones, then goes back to the rectangular ones. "I like these. Which one would you recomend for me?" Ronalde looks at the three rectangular Bucklers, smiles, "These are from my personal collection. unlike yourself I dont like the rectangular ones, I prefered the spiked round ones. Please take all three. I will still have more than I will ever want or use. I will probably sell them one day." Culpeper looks to Mirian to see her opinion on this. She nods, smiling, "he really doesn't like the rectangular ones you will be lightening his load!" She looks to the other two men, then bak to Culpeper, "seriously, I dont use shields or Bucklers, so I cannot train you in its use. Jonny doesn't either. We will have to find someone to train you in its usage." Culpeper looks a little disappointed but understands. Ronalde offers, "The King told me you will be moving out tomorrow. we are sending a messenger out today at midday to Everport about assigning you a temporary Ranger horse. I have a friend who lives in Everport. He would be happy, at my request, to train you in the use of the Mace and Buckler together. Class in the day, training in the evening. I dont now how long your class is for, The King did not tell me, My friend will likely want a month at a minimum with you. Is that something you can do?" Without hesitation he replies with, "Yes sir! I will do what it takes!" Ronalde rolls his eyes, "Please...call me Ronalde. If you must be formal call me Weaponmaster, not sir. I work for a living." They all chuckle. Ronalde looks at the window gauging the time. "I am sorry folks but I have to go, duty calls."

Culpepepr offers, "let me help you move these boxes out." "No need," replies Ronalde, I have a couple men outside waiting with the wagon. They will move the boxes for us." Culpeper estimates the time to be about midday, "You have had men waitin outside all this time? how come you didn't have them come in?" The two Rangers and the Weaponmaster all chuckle. Culpeper looks confused at this response. "Believe me, my dear, Those men are perfectly happy gaurding the wagon. They have been shooting the shit all morning instead of drilling, praticing or other soldier duties. If you were a soldier and you were given gaurd duty on a wagon in this town, you wouldn't be complaining either. when they come in they will be looking sad because they will be going back to their normal duties." Ronalde's face suddenly lights up with amusement, "Culpeper, I am absolutely trying to have fun at your expense and the soldiers outside. Do me a favor, walk out the door, pick a direction, take a few steps. Observe the soldiers on the wagon. They are going to see you walking away, go back to chatting. Then turn to them and say, "Oh there you are, Weaponmaster Ronalde wants you to come inside now." Culpeper chuckles and goes outside.

Sure enough, he opened the door, the soldiers looked. As soon as he looked away they went back to chatting. Culpeper looks back to them, "pardon me but the Weaponmaster would like you to come inside now." Just as they said, they went from happy chatting to unhappy. They hopped down and went into the Inn. As they enter Ronalde instructs them to load up the weapons boxes. They first take the one furthest from the Inn door out to the Wagon. They come back for the second. After loading and securing the boxes, one pokes his head back thru the door, "secured and ready sir." The man waits until the Weaponmaster acknowledges him, then goes back outside. The Weaponmaster turns to the other three, "Culpeper, it was nice to meet you. While this lady doesn't need looking after, you look after her anyways." Culpeper laughs with his response, "I dont know about looking after her. I do intend to watch her back though, when and where I can." The Weaponmaster holds his hand out again. They shake as new friends. He turns to Mirian gives her a hug nd a kiss on the cheek, "Mirian, I like your husband, you look out for him." She reaches over, takes Culpepers hand, "Thanks Ronalde, we will look after each other." Now Jonny, "Jonny, as always, its a plesre tomsee you. Look out for both of them." with a final nod of the head he walks out the door.

"I am going to take my new equipment upstairs. Then lets figure out what we are going to do with the rest of the day." Mirian and Jonny talk while Culpeper stowed his gear. When he comes back down, his new Mace is attached to his belt. "Jonny and I were talking. We would like to just walk around town Let you be seen. Get the word out that you are A friend of the Rangers guild and A full fledged member of the Healers guild. The Order of Healers and the Timeless Shields can just get over it!" Jonny looks at him, "Couldn't have put it better myelf. Let them Fuck with you with Mirian or I around." Jonny turns to the door, "lets go."

Once they are outside they Notice a couple of Clerice and Shields watching them. 'well,' thinks Mirian, 'it didn't take long to get their attention.' out loud she says, "Lets go to the Market that is always a un way to take up some time." The men agree and they head for the Market.

As they enter the Market the first stall they encounter is an exotic drink stall. All three decide to order Rose Soda, trying something new. Taking a careful sip all three like it, thanking the vendor they move on. They find all of the customary stalls and shops of a large Market. Bakeries, Butchers, The Fish monger (smells just like ou would think), They found a pie shop, they ordered a combination of of meat, cheese and vegetable pies. They each ordered a cherry or apple pie for desert. They stand in a circle chatting and watching the crowd. Once done and full they continue exploring the Market. They stopped and watched the Blcksmith for awhile. Moving next to the Candlemaker. Jonny watches in amusement as his friends sniff and talk about different candles. Eventually they buy two candles mutually deciding they liked the scents. Next they visit the Tanner stall, They are going to need something to carry their new property (weapon, Bucklers and Market acquisitions). They acquire a bag that has straps to be used as a backpack and a cinching rope that can be tied to a saddle. Jonny suggests stopping at the drapers stall to buy some wool linen to wrap around the items in the bag. "otherwise you are going to sound like a tinkers wagon going down the road." While looking for the Drapers stall Mirian and Culpepepr talk and decide that since most of the items in the bag will be his, he will take the bag when they head out tomorrow. Next stop, the Apothecaries. Culpeper points out various items and what they are used for. They dont buy anything here because Culpepepr states we have everything here back home. The last shop they visit is a bookseller. They walk around the shop for awhile looking at the titles. Jonny finds a book, snorts at the title, pulls it down to buy. Mirian looks a little surprised, knowing Jonny doesn't like to read. When they leave the book shop, Jonny gives the book to Mirian and Culpepepr. They look at the title, it reads, "The Rangers, Healer. A sexy story." Jonny cant help but laughing, "obviously someone saw you two coming or should I say Cumming?" Jonny lightly steps back as Mirian tyakes a half hearted swat at him. Culpeper laughs saying, "I believe both would be correct!"

not ready to go back to the Inn for the night, the three go to a Ale stall order a stout ale, go sit in the covered area at the edge of the Market. They sit and chat. Talking about their pasts and their hopes for the future. After what seems like a short time it is dark and the stalls are boarding up for the night. They get up and stroll back to the Inn. Still not ready for bed, They ask for any kind of juice they might have. They want clear heads in the morning. Finally Mirian stands up, "well boys, I believe it is bed time." holding er hand outn for Culpeper, "Lets go read some of that book and see if it makes us want to make a baby!" Theybhead upnthe stairs laughing and giggling like the newly married that they are. Jonny Finishes his cider and goes to bed also.

The next morning Jonny and the Innkeeper greet the couple in the common room. They are chatting and having tea. "ahh, there is the happy couple, calls out the Inneeper. May I get you something before you move on?" "Bread, Cheese and Meat would be good." replies Culpeper, "I am starving!" Jonny laughs at this declaration, I would be to if is was exercising all night. Jonny and the Innkeeper laugh as the Innkeeper goes for their food. Mirian Joins the laughter replies, "I cant help it Jonny, Culpeper is a woman pleaser. I just cant help squeeling and moaning!" Jonny laughs again, "Yeah, not just you Mirian Fortunately the Inn is empty except for us, otherwise that many more people would know you both are moaners." Looking to Culpeper he says with a great deal of humor, "My friend, I have never heard a man mae the noises you do." As Culpeper replies the Innkeeper arrives with their food. "What can I say Jonny? If my woman is going to let me know how much she is enjoying it, shouldn't I do the same?" Now the Innkeeper joins in, lughing, "It is all well and good that you two have great communications. I do not believe all your neighbors wish to be in your communications." Everyone laughs as the happy couple starts eating their food. About half way thru the food Culpeper asks about getting their horses. Jonny informs them that he got up early, the horses are out front ready to go. The three pay up their bill for the last couple of days. "Here is an extra gold. You might need to give the linen in our room a spcial cleaning." chuckles Mirian. The Inneeper replies half exasperated, "yes, I am sure I will." when they are done eating they thank the Innkeeper for the excellent hospitality, pick up their gear and walk out the door.





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