The Excavation Begins

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Daniel Carter:-The center of town was busier than usual today. People were hurrying back and forth carrying scrolls, rusted old tools, piping, bags of food and other supplies and loading them all onto wagons stationed by the community stable. Horses and oxen were tied to the yokes, stamping impatiently as men of all races scurried back and forth loading, unloading, squabbling and bumping into one another. There was only one man that seemed to have his head on straight, who was calm, collected, and meandering methodically along the rows of shops checking carts and scribbling in a leatherbound notebook. "Dr. Carter!" A sigh. He couldn't imagine what catastrophy had happened now. He looked up nonchalantly and readjusted the pair of wire rimmed glasses(C)-
Daniel Carter:-that were much becoming a trademark to look at the excitable younger man who had come huffing and puffing up to him. "Dr. Carter I'm sorry to disturb you but there's been another problem with the gear..." Daniel sighed and rubbed his temple. Ten in the morning and he already had a headache. He looked back to the young man in silence but an expression that dared the out of breath paige to tell him what had gone wrong -this- time. "It's the blankets and the winter gear, Sir. The merchant is doubling back on the price. He wants a third more gold for what he's giving us and we didn't know if you had authoriz-" Daniel sighed again. He had had enough. "Tell him if he doesn't stick to his end of our deal the queen will cut his hands off."(C)-
Daniel Carter:-The man looked shocked. "But... but Dr. Carter... the Queen would never do such a thing!" He said agasp. Daniel just smiled ever so slightly and turned back to his log book. "Well he doesn't have to know that." The young man looked confused for a moment, but then turned to go do as he was told. "Dr. Carter!" There was a call from beside him. Daniel wondered if maybe he was getting too old for this. "One of our men accidentally dropped a pipe on one of the horses... " Daniel looked at him, tiredly. "Tell them to take more money out of the funds, pay the man for his horse, get a new one and load the pipe." Wasn't this mostly common sense? Looking around it was plain to see that Ulster did not have very many things this exciting happen to it(C)-
Daniel Carter:-and were thoroughly unprepared for an archeological excavation to hit home. He was distractable today, as well, somehow wishing he could figure out a way to slide out of this picture, even though he knew the kind of chaos that would create. Looked like for the moment, he was stuck.(F)-

Amariette: ~She was wandering about again. With her map spread between her hands, Amariette had set out before dawn to explore the market place once more, her things folded neatly in the pack against her spine. It was her last day in the capital and that evening she would be heading back to Chartha with the items her father had requested and a few others he had not. Feeling courageous, she had struck out on her own to see what she could of the rest of the large city, the Golden Apple Inn only a fond memory in her mind now. The weather was inexplicably nice, the sky free of clouds and the blue hue swallowing up any birds that took wing into its broad expanse. ~<c>
Amariette: ~As she strolled about the square, engaging in polite conversation with a few curious merchant's wives along the way, she wanted to buy a few more things before she was to return home. More than that though, she wanted to bump into him again. Daniel had haunted her dreams during those warm nights at the inn and she was more than eager to engage him once more if fate should see that they run into each other again. Her flaxen, crimson hair was done up in a tight ponytail today, the long ringlets hanging well past her shoulder blades and two braids framing either side of her pretty face. The same worn village sandals adorned her feet, but they were barely discernible beneath her most recent aquisition, the item for which she was most proud for purchasing, a new dress.~<c>
Amariette: ~The rich red color had beckoned her as an oasis might a thirsting traveler, and she was more than happy to indulge herself in such a rare bargain. The gown was of ancient Celtic origin, the style that of the ancestors' whose blood ran through her veins and she marveled at the intricacies of the sewing. Gold embroidery rose up from the hem in the traditional Celtic knot form, the stitching climbing up the body of the dress as though she were being consumed in gilded vines. This dress had no sleeves or straps, but a tight bodice that hugged about her bust and accented her natrual curves, a piece of red lace covering the topmosts of her breasts modestly.~<c>
Amariette: ~Continuing on at a gentle pace, it took her some time to realize that she had stumbled upon some type of project area, the sight of workers chipping away at all manner of rock, dirt, and grit causing her to stop in her tracks. Letting her gaze survey the new surroundings, a slight smile curled on Amariette's lips, "How fascinating, this must be the excavation Daniel was so excited about."~

Daniel Carter:-Good lord, he thought, stumbling across a few men already dinging their tools against some of the samples he had brought back from the excavation site. "What..." He asked, folding his arms over his chest. "Are you doing?" He asked. One of the men looked up, a pick in hand a duster in the other. This was no dig site, it was just a few of the guys playing around or practicing. "Mr. Mallard told us to practice by getting the fossils out of these samples, Dr. Carter. Did we do something wrong?" Carter arched a brow and looked over their work. Sloppy, but to be expected from green recruits, he thought to himself. "Just ... be careful. For all our sakes?" He asked with a small smile. They nodded and went back to banging and chipping away at the rock(C)-
Daniel Carter:-samples. Oh well, he thought. At least they got the larger ones that had to be carted back by wagon. Another paige came running up. He didn't want to talk to the poor boy, but it was like this every time he got ready to go out on an expedition this size. No one was every ready and no one ever knew what to do. As the boy came up and he turned his head to ask what the bloody problem was now he stopped short, eyes fixed on something beyond them both. She was... beautiful. He blinked and a smile slowly formed where an annoyed scowl had been. Shoving the log papers into the boy's hands he closed his journal and slipped it into his coat pocket and brushed past the people trying to talk to him, making his way for Amariette. My god, that dress..(C)-
Daniel Carter:-He hadn't seen her in it before. It was... flattering... to say the least. "Miss Willowbane!" He called, breaking into a jog to catch up with her. She must have been lost and confused in the middle of all this mess. "Amariette..." he said, tilting his head in surprise to see her, a small boyish smile crossing his features even though he was at least seven years her senior. "What... what are you doing here?" He himself was not dressed so finely. Brown wool pants and a button down white shirt already covered in dirt stains and missing the top two buttons from lifting, carrying, and loading things all morning half covered by what looked like a coarse leather coat. Well, just went to prove that you can take the man out of the dig but you can't take the dig out of the man(F)-

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~"Daniel....actually I was looking for the fair grounds but I guess I may have taken a wrong turn somewhere. Quite the endeavor you have going on here, no doubt the tools my father will provide will be put to good use then yes?" She smiled warmly and embraced him, her cheek pressed intimately to his for a few moments, and her slender hands gripping his shoulders. Her body pushed against him and her bare skin was emanating with the scent of fresh Lavender and Jasmine, no doubt a recently purchsed perfume at Bigham's expense. Still, as she released him and stepped back, her skin was filled with color, the long morning in the sun giving her fair skin a bronze tint that only accented her appearance. ~<c>
Amariette: ~Tilting her head, she watched as young lads scurried past her, fetching and delivering all manner of things to the workers scattered about the area. It was a rather impressive sight to see, but she soon let her emerald eyes center on Daniel once again, appraising the look of him with an obvious glimmer of amusement in the sparkling depths. "Oh please, don't let me interrupt you, I hadn't intended on strolling into your domain without just cause and equally just provocation. If you'll kindly point me in the direction of the fair, I will be gone from your sight just as quick as you can say 'Archeology'." Her lips parted in a light peal of laughter, the tone melodic but gracefully haunting, as though her entire soul was rejoicing at her modest joke.~<c>
Amariette: ~Folding her map easily, she swung her pack from her shoulder and slipped it within, making sure it was snug and secure before lifting the small burden back onto her arm. "I shall be returning to Chartha tonight and I will most definitely talk with my father about your tools, I have no doubt that he'll welcome a special opportunity to craft something other than swords."~

Daniel Carter: -He smiled and looked over her again. Should he really be looking at her like this? Somehow he couldn't help himself even if it was wrong. He certainly didn't shy away from her embrace, either. She was a sweet hearted girl, albeit a young and innocent girl, but somehow that didn't make him dislike her company. "Disturb me? Miss Willowbane you should know by now that you're anything but a disturbance." He said holding his arms over his chest again, arching a brow at her. It was uncharacteristic for Daniel to be so non chalant, but he had almost had it with the stress this morning. If these people couldn't figure out how to load carts properly, then there was no hope for the empire. "Actually," He said, leaning closer in a conspiratorial(C)-
Daniel Carter: - kind of way, "I've been looking for a reason to get out of here all morning. We've been at this since dawn and it's not going to get any better..." He said, looking up to see a man trip and crush a bag of grain against another man's foot and sighed. "If you know what I mean." Looking to her again his smile twisted a little higher, small creases along the corners of his mouth starting to show. Smile lines! How cute. "Would you mind some company along with you to the fair? I... haven't gotten a break in a few hours. I'm sure no one would miss me..." He said turning up his collar to hide from someone he thought was definitely out to find him. There were a few more shouts in the background and then a call of "Dr. Carter! We... uh... have a problem!"(C)-
Daniel Carter: - He gave a small laugh. "Time to go..." he said, taking her hand and sneaking off towards one of the fences into the horse pens that had a gate on the other side. He ducked through it, pulling her with him to go back around behind the barn and out of site of those making ready to head for the excavation site tomorrow. They were safe, for now. there was another small fence that he hopped over easily. It only came up to his waist, after all. Offering a hand he helped her over as well. "How far is Chartha?" He asked making causal conversation as they made their way for the fairgrounds. It wasn't far, just up over the hill behind the barn. Once to the top he smiled a little and watched the children scurrying all about, mothers worried, men drinking, teen agers flirting.(C)-
Daniel Carter: - "The fairgrounds. Just like I promised." He said in good humor. He cleared his throat awkwardly for a minute, shifting around and suddenly more nerdy and less confident now out of his element once again. Slowly and hesitantly he offered an arm to her, as he had been lectured at by Halar many times to do when trying to be polite. "Would you like to go?" He asked(F)-

Amariette: ~"Yes well I...oh!" She gave a soft cry of surprise as he took her hand and hastily lead her out of the sight and through the maze of barns and whatnot. Trotting beside him, she sought to keep up so that he did not have to pull her along, her hair bouncing spiritedly and her light steps giving the impression that she was running at a full pace. Hearing the shouts and cries fade into the distance, she looked over her shoulder with an unbridled grin, completely understanding his desire to be free of such a stressful environment. He reminded her so much of her own father, their personalities surprisingly similar for such an age difference.~<c>
Amariette: ~In fact, Bigham was going on fifty and he wasn't showing his age at all, most likely due to his rather active business which demanded much more than just sweat and blood. As they finally came to a stop, the fair looming out before them, she gasped in obvious amazement and delight, her eyes softening as she looked toward him once again. Leaning in, she pressed her lips to his ear in a gentle whisper, her warm and sweet breath lingering on his skin, "Father would disapprove of me being here. He says fairs are for loose women and eager men to indulge themselves in their primal lusts. Actually, I haven't the faintest idea what he could mean."~<c>
Amariette: ~"My mother used to take me to fairs all the time when I was young and she never strayed too far from the riding pen where I would spend hours giving the ponies a run for their money." Moving back from him, she took his arm and gave it a gentle and reassuring squeeze, trying to relieve some of the nervousness she saw growing on his face. Honestly, he was as hopeless as she when it came to behavior in the presence of another of the opposite sex, though her saving grace was her inert sense of flirtation.~

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Daniel Carter: -He couldn't help but smile. He did feel a little... odd though. "I think I'm a bit out of place dress wise..." he said looking at all of the people dressed in their more finer clothes for a day at the fair. "If anything I would think your father would be disappointed that you're being seen looking so well dressed with a poorly paid and fashion senseless man on your arm."He said, trying to somehow make up for the two missing buttons that had torn off with a piece of the button hole when he had help lift the boulder samples off the back of the wagon that the men had been 'practicing' on. He was feeling a little self conscious, actually, next to a young, beautiful woman that he noticed a lot of other men were staring at, and him, an older, socially backward(C)-
Daniel Carter: -man with no romantic skills to speak of and attire that made him look like he just crawled out of the country looking for a bed. He was out of place, to be sure. He adjusted his glasses again and looked around, having never been to a modern fair. "You know..." he said, dusting a few chips of rock from his hair as he passed a mirror hanging on a stand, "The last time I was at a public gathering this big I was in the kingdom of Misthalin in the jungles on the mainland at a ceremony of the Moaba tribes that lived there. They're headhunters and don't like outsiders in their territory. Fortunately I had enough knowledge of their language and customs I was able to avoid getting killed." he said, smiling faintly, "But somehow I find this a little more frightening."(C)-
Daniel Carter: -he wasn't kidding, either. At least he could learn from books how to act in what most considered uncivilized society, but Ulster? Now that was the real jungle. He stopped for a moment and broke away from her, motioning for her to wait. Taking a few copper pieces from his pocket he stopped with his back to her at a vendor, feeling a sudden pang... a feeling maybe, that if he didn't do something soon one of those men he knew was staring at Amariette was going to come up and start sweettalking, and then he would be out of luck and no fair match to keep her attention. It had happened with Farris and he wouldn't count on his knowledge of jungle lore to exactly help him if she was approached again. He thanked the shop vendor for the wares(C)-
Daniel Carter: -and turned back to her. "Here... I saw the color, thought... well... it matches." Was all he could come up with as he presented the rose to her, dethorned for safety and a small smile to go with it. "For asking me to come meet your father to get tools. You have no idea how much good hand crafted equipment is going to come in handy." he said.(F)-

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~"Oh Daniel, you are too hard on yourself. Would you believe me if I told you that you looked a great deal better than most of the strong lads in my village on a daily basis?" She laughed lightly and stroked his arm gently, her eyes serving him in further detail and the slight dirt smudges on his cheeks too adorable to comment on. Releasing him to rummage through her pack, she retrieved a small white kerchief and began to lightly rub the dirt away, as though she were some endearing mother hen fawning over her chick. Once she was finished, she replaced it and slipped her pack onto her shoulders once more, listening intently to his story of traversing through the wilds.~<c>
Amariette: ~It made her heart race to hear such a tale, having read a few books on the jungle peoples of distant lands and their strange, and sometimes barbaric ways. Nodding politely just the same as he finished and left her for a moment to consult a fair vendor, she tilted her head curiously and wondered what he was up to. Gasping as he returned with the rose, her cheeks went scarlet and she lowered her eyes demurely, a faint smile curling on her lips and her voice soft and subdued, "Thank you very much Daniel, I really don't have anything to give you. It's improper to accept a gift and not offer one in return." ~<c>
Amariette: ~Thinking for a moment as she cradled the rose in her slender hands, she slipped the bloom behind her left ear, curling her hair back as well so that it accented her overall appearance marvelously. Her lovely green eyes lifted to meet his own blue gaze and she moved against him, her body pressed intimately to his own as she lifted her fingers to rest against either side of his lower jaw. Leaning forward, she pressed her soft lips to his cheek, the warmth of her body transfered to him in the affectionate gesture and she let them linger a few moments longer. Trembling in shrewd delight and excitement, she finally drew back and prayed that he didn't hear the beat of her racing heart, her eyes downcast once again. ~<c>
Amariette: ~"I know it's not much in the way of a gift equal to yours, but I wanted to give you something as well."~

Daniel Carter: -A smile was returned to her as she complimented him, surprisingly enough. He looked on curiously as she released his arm to rummage through her pack and was taken slightly off guard by what she pulled out. He hadn't stopped to think that maybe he was still a little dirty from the job and all of his time spent preparing for Invernis. As she lifted the hankerchief and dabbed some of the dust of an unshaven face he locked his eyes on her, watching her facial expressions with a kind of studious analyzation he used when he was looking at some kind of rare artifact or a language that had been lost in the folds of time that he was trying to decipher. As they walked on and he procured the flower he had to wonder if he was doing the right thing. (C)-
Daniel Carter: -She was young, they had just met, and he didn't exactly have the most conducive life style to allow a relationship to enter into it. But then again... it was just a flower. Watching her tuck it behind his ear he smiled a little awkwardly and looked down, putting his hands in the pockets of his leather coat. "No... there's no need to.." He stopped as she stood up on her toes to afford him a soft kiss on the cheek. The smell of the new perfume hit his nose and senses all at once, and for a moment afterwards he did not move. "... repay me..." He finished the sentence a little late. Glancing up to her with a shy closed lipped hint of a smile, he spoke again. "It's more than enough, trust me." He cleared his throat, recollecting himself. "In fact, in some cultures(C)-
Daniel Carter: -such a gesture can mean the difference between life and death, though I don't think my situation is quite so drastic..." He met her eyes again, "Or at least I hope not." Lingering a little too long, Dr. Carter? He must have thought so because he turned his head quickly and coverd his mouth with his fist to clear his throat again then readjusted his glasses and kept walking along beside her. "So..." he said after a few long and silent moments. "Where would you like to go?"(F)-

Amariette: ~"Hmm, I have always wanted to see the jousting. Of course, it's horribly dangerous and life threatening but if I can't watch these type of things now, how can I ever expect to experience life to its fullest right?" It was the best she could do with small talk as they continued along, her eyes drifting to the different types of boothes where games were being played and food was being sold. Clinging a bit tighter to his arm as though he were her very lifeline in this world, she appeared rather dependent on his knowledge in more ways than one. Daniel may have been an obssessive, compulsive bookworm, but to her, and this was becoming more and more obvious, he was the world that she knew so little about, the world that held so much promise.~<c>
Amariette: ~She liked him. Amariette genuinely enjoyed being with him, just as if he were some exotic prince or even the King of Ulster himself. Had she been more aware of her visible affection for the man, she may have humbled herself to the status to which she belonged to begin with, but instead, she seemed like the very rose that rested against her ear. When Daniel was with her, she bloomed into this excited and passionate beauty that only enhanced her surroundings and her attitude for all to see and marvel upon. In fact, she felt a bit saddened that she had to return home so soon, she relished in her moments when she could press herself against him and feel a safety and understanding she had never experienced before.~<c>
Amariette: ~The small moments they shared meant so much to the girl, and though she was still young, and no doubt preceivably impressionable and simple, she held an intelligence and beauty that transcended mortal comprehension. Her father would have understood it to be the charm of her mother, reborn in her daughter's persona so that even when the worst times were upon them, he could look upon her and see heaven's gift made flesh. "But yes, I would very much like to see the jousting knights. A bit of excitement would do me some good, don't you think so Daniel Carter?"~

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Daniel Carter: -"Jousting?" He echoed, furrowing his brow for a moment. He had to have a chuckle at his own expense when he realized he was less familiar with the game than he was with the Mapouche version of chess, but that was Daniel, now wasn't it? He looked down to her once more, forgetting his awkwardness for the moment. "Ok. We'll go see the jousting." It was rare for him to make real connections with anyone. For as long as he could remember he had been just like his mother and father, nose in as many books as he could get his hands on. He often thought that after his father's death he had plunged himself into studying to help himself cope with the loss, or maybe just to prove to his father that he would go on and do what he had to(C)-
Daniel Carter: -even in light of the tragedy. He could not be certain, though he fully recognized how the loss had pained him. But that was more than thirteen years ago, he had no real excuse for it now except passion. He lived alone, spending time with Halar or at his small house in Invernis. He saw his mother on sundays and wednsdays, taught at the academy some weekdays, and the rest of the time was spent... learning. Looking at her now, pretty, kind, and as uncomplex as a woman could get, he had to wonder if maybe it was time for a little change after almost thirty years of repetition. Perhaps his colleagues would think her to be simple minded, but Daniel somehow got the impression that the girl knew more than she let on. She just... thought differently(C)-
Daniel Carter: -She was no scholor, but in her own way she had a brilliance. Her perception, her intuition. They made her beautiful. They arrived at the jousting ring uneventfully just as the match was beginning. It had been a long time since Daniel had seen one. Too much time in the field he supposed. "The last time I was at a jousting match... I believe I was twelve years old. My father took me to the fair in Duadh. It was the biggest city in Ulster I'd ever seen before. I don't think I've seen once since." He said in preface to the answer to her question, leaning on the fence that surrounded the ring. "But as I do remember, they're quite exciting." in answer to her. He looked over his shoulder, arms crossed and leaning on the rail in front of him, yet his attention(C)-
Daniel Carter: -was not on the match. And exactly what would he do when he got to her father's? Surely he was not very good at hiding his thoughts, and Bigham would see a slight affection for his daughter. In Daniel's slight experiences, this was not a good thing. He was a bit older, lived far away, and not the most prestegious type of man (not outside his field, anyway). Moreover, his only friend was a dragon. It didn't bode well for him. But he still had to ask. "Amariette..." He looked down and then back to her again, collecting words carefully. "You know... if you wanted to... you'd be welcome to come along on the dig, even if only for a few days..." (F)-

Amariette: ~"You know, when I was young, my mother would read to me incessantly, any time father expected me to do chores, I had my nose in a book, some of the time, it was a fairy tale with the classic characters. My mother, Brianne, was a noble woman, born to a lesser house. Yet, what she lacked in status, she more than made up for in friendships and aquaintances with some of the most famous minds in all the land. Her own knowledge was unconventional, and at times, a bit frightening to some, but she was the sweetest and most considerate person when it mattered the most. I have very few memories of her, but Bigham tells me that I've never stopped thirsting for knowledge and as a little girl I would purposely get myself lost in a stretch of woods, just so I could find my own way back."~<c>
Amariette: ~After I almost gave him a heart attack when I didn't return home at the age of seven, he found me and locked me inside, determined to make me a lady yet, asking all the maids and matrons in the village to school me in what he called 'woman's work'." At that she made her voice gruff and scratchy, trying to mimic her father and his heavy knitted brows. It was a rather comical sight, but she moved next to him, slipping her arm beneath his so that her head was cradled against his shoulder. Sighing as the knights' began to mount their steads, she let her eyes close and rubbed her cheek against his arm reassuringly, letting her mind drift to those old times.~<c>
Amariette: ~"Secretly I would continue to read my mother's books, he keeps them rather well in this private library he built for her a long time ago, and there are some very impressive text that I know you would more than enjoy studying. A few pieces are so old that I dare not touch them, but I have read the famous Merlin's book of incantations and spellcraft. I haven't the faintest idea where my mother got it, but it was more than interesting. Then there were a few books of basic languages that have long since died out in the world, I manage to teach myself a few of them, but I have gotten a bit out of practice. Lets see, I know Felin, Braska, and even that old barbarian tongue, you know the one the vikings used." ~<c>
Amariette: ~She couldn't remember for the life of her the name, but she was sure he more than understood, either that, or he was horribly bored already with her chatter. Opening her eyes, she went silent and watched the knights parade about the ring, urging the crowd on to boost their level of confidence. As he spoke, she lifted her eyes to his gently, her face unreadable, and then she spoke, "What do you wish me to do Daniel?"~

Daniel Carter: -She was quite something. Self taught, now that he could appreciate. He listened intently to her, eyes on her the entire time as she spoke, closing them only for a moment, contented, as she leaned on his shoulder. From the way she talked, it appeared that she too had lost a parent, but that in a similar vein to him had been shown enough love that she had been able to move on quite well from the loss and live to cherish the memory instead of dwelling on it. It was an admirable trait to be sure. "If she was anything like you, I'm sure she was a good woman." He said softly. He often times wondered what James would say if he could see the man his son had grown to be. He cared for his mother now, twice a week spending the day with her(C)-
Daniel Carter: -and she worried as much as Halar did. Get settled down, stop going on all those trips, stop going to such awful and dangerous places, find a girl, get married. He had been content with a static lifestyle for many years. Lately, the past six months, he had been itching for a change. Perhaps he was already on that path. Her question, however, left him flustered. What did he want her to do? He supposed in context that meant what he wanted her to do about the dig, but he wasn't sure if she meant it on a much bigger scale. "Well... I mean it's not about what I want..." he stammered, looking back to the jousting match and growing silent for a moment. Oh, come on Carter. You're twenty eight and you can't even talk to a woman yet? He sighed at himself(C)-
Daniel Carter: - Looking back to her as the crowd went cheering over a well placed hit, he waited until the din had settled. "I want to spend time with you. But I have to leave for Invernis, this project is so big..." He said, his smile twisting a little bit. Would her father even let her go with him? Some man he didn't even know, probably didn't trust, letting his only daughter go trapsing halfway across the country to an archaeological site? He doubted it highly. Maybe... if he made a good impression? He let his eyes meet hers again. "What do you want?"(F)

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~"Hmm, I can't deny that my heart greatly desires this, to spend more time with you I mean, but I can't help but think I would be a bit out of place. I mean, I'm not an archeologist and I would stick out like a sore thumb, it would be obvious that I was only there to stand around and look ignorant. Please, I'm not trying to dampen your plans or impede upon your own intentions, but I just don't think that would be the greatest idea. Not to mention, my father. Bigham is an impatient and demanding man on a good day. If I asked him to leave for a place I have never seen with a man I just met, he would most likely label me a blundering idiot or sick in the head."~<c>
Amariette: ~"My purpose in Chartha is to help him where he cannot help himself, and even now, I know that when I get home, there will be clothes to wash and dishes to be done. Heaven knows if he's had an adequate meal since I have been gone. Trust me, he's getting along in age and if I don't take care of him like I should, I most likely will suffer some horrible future fate as punishment. Oh Daniel, please don't think I don't want to be with you, believe me, it would be a dream come true to travel with you and learn more about your passions. But, I just...can't...." She was visible hurt now, releasing his arm and drawing away as the jousting began to start anew, two fresh opponents taking the field and begin the ceremony all over again.~<c>
Amariette: ~Walking a ways, she felt the first real touch of turmoil fill her heart and her mind, her conflict between two emotions she had never known so fiercely before, her obligation to her father and her desire to be with a man that intrigued her more than any man she'd ever known. Sighing, she reached up and drew the pins from her hair, the long ringlets falling down to her shoulders again, clutching the pearl pins in her hands, she squeezed them tightly until her hand began to bleed. Droplets fell to the ground, but she barely felt any pain and instead, withdrew deep into her own mind where she could escape him, even if only for a moment. What could she say? What could she do?~<c>
Amariette: ~It was still too soon to say anything to him that would betray her fondness, she had no idea how he would receive such a confession.~

Daniel Carter: -Ah, good job Carter, you hit a nerve. And came off selfish to boot! He hadn't even thought of it, but her father must be the age of his mother, and with no one there to care for him... what had he been thinking? "Amariette..." But she was already walking away. He had officially botched. It didn't feel very go and began to remind him of why he didn't often appeal himself to the opposite sex. And now he was at a loss with what to do. The poor girl, why did he put her in such a position? For such a big brain it sure didn't think things out sometimes. He walked over to her and hesitantly lifted a hand to put it on her shoulder. When she turned to look at him he took her by both arms, gently, as forceful really wasn't in his vocabulary. He paused a moment(C)-
Daniel Carter: -looking a little guilty. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to come off that way... Believe me, I understand what it means to have an obligation to your family and I don't want to get in the way of that at all... that would be very wrong of me." He stopped to study her for a moment, blue eyes wandering over her features in a quiet contemplation. "After my father died my mother stopped working. I took care of her from then on, and I still do. Because of my work I've hired someone to watch out for her on days when I can't be there, but I know how the obligation feels. And I know why you can't go off whenever you want to." He smiled a little and gave her arm a squeeze, "Though I'm glad you did this time. I just hope I can persuade your father to hear out my problem(C)-
Daniel Carter: -before he turns me away for shaming his daughter's image by being seen with her in public..." He said, poking some fun at himself by gingerly pinching the half torn button holes at the top of his shirt to show how uncivilized he was being. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted something above the jousting ring high up in the sky. He looked away from her to spot what he knew was Halar circling the city again, probably overseeing the preparation for the excavation. It gave him an idea. "Well... just maybe..." He looked back to her with a smile, "I'll be able to come and visit everyone once in a while." Halar would be all for it, anything that would get Daniel out of the dig site and into the real world. Daniel glanced back to the young woman(C)-
Daniel Carter: -again. "When was your father expecting you home? I think I just figured out a better way of transporting what you need, albeit unconventional."(F)-

Amariette: ~"Well, I was hoping to set out before sundown, I haven't the faintest idea what time it is, but the sky is beginning to look a bit too pink for my tastes, I think we may have been out longer than we thought. I have somone holding my larger items at the farmer's market that you told me about, I meant to pick them up before I set out again, perhaps rent a pony or something. Daniel, please, I want you to know that you don't have to apologize for anything that you said. I admire your frankness more than you know and well, had I been in any other position, I would have taken you up on your offer. The truth is...well....I...." She felt suddenly faint, weak, and her knees buckled beneath her, gravity claiming her body as she began to fall, her eyes sliding closed. ~<c>
Amariette: ~Apparently, the wounds in her hand were deeper than she had thought and the blood loss was considerable considering how long she had stood there ignoring ever signal that her mind sent her. In fact, she had almost forgotten about her minor illness since it had been so long since she had hurt herself. Amariette's blood was thin and did not clot like it was supposed to when she got hurt, like any normal person's blood would given the same situation. Bigham had mentioned how her mother had been the same way, a powerful spirit in a fragile body he had said to her one night, after she had cut herself while peeling potatoes for a stew. ~<c>
Amariette: ~However, since she had been caught up in all the excitement of her first experience out in the world on her own, she had been rather careless and concentrated more on her task at had than her personal health. It was an honest mistake yes, a mistake made by one who was not as experienced as she should have been when it came to being careful and cautious. Besides, she could never have known that she would have reacted so strongly to Daniel's request, the pins now falling from her relaxed hand and scattering on the ground, coated in her blood. Her skin had grown more and more pale, but the angle of the light on her face and neck gave no hint of inevitable trouble, her look that of absolute health.~

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Daniel Carter: -He shook his head trying to tell her she didn't need to explain anything to him, "Amariette, it's alright. It's ok, it's not important to me, I want you to do what you want to do. I'll be fine with that. And we can leave now for Chartha if you want, it won't take that long just..." He stopped and blinked as her eyes slid shut. Relflexed kicked in as she fainted and he caught her in time, holding her up in his arms easily enough. She was a small girl. The boulders he'd been helping lift this morning probably weighed double what she did. Still, it was startling to see her there unconscious in his arms and it took a moment before he reacted. "Oh my god..." he murmured, lifting her up off the ground. He had to find help! "Excuse me... please MOVE." He yelped(C)-
Daniel Carter: -at the people meandering through the streets as he carried her body, head resting safely against his chest, towards a medical tent. Dipping in under the flap he looked up helplessly at the healer on sight who arched her eyebrows at him. "I didn't do it!" He blurted out, feeling like her stare was rather accusatory in nature. "We were talking, then all of a sudden..." The woman rolled her eyes and motioned him to come lay the girl on a straw matress, and he did as he was told. A check found the hand wound and the healer set about applying an herbal coagulant and bandaging the thing, looking at Daniel as if to inquire how he missed this. He was sitting silently next to her, holding the rose in hand and watching. When the healer finished she(C)-
Daniel Carter: -excused herself to the next patient leaving a damp rag on the girl's forehead and Daniel to watch and wait. He sighed. What a day this was turning out to be. Why was it, he wondered, that every time he tried to engage in this kind of a relationship it ended up getting soured by something beyond his control? Maybe it wasn't beyond his control, maybe it was something he was doing. He wouldn't rule that out as a possibility, after all, the evidence did point that way. He clasped his hands around the rose and rested his elbows on his knees, letting his head drop down as he closed his eyes and let out a breath. Nothing he could do but wait. Certainly would be something to try to explain to Bigham. All he could hope is that it wouldn't come up...(F)-

Amariette: ~'Amariette......Amariette...wake up child...wake up and hear me...hear me very well....Amariette..' It was a soft voice, a warm voice, a familiar voice that stirred her eyes open and she sat up slowly, her head turning quickly toward Daniel as he sat with his head downcast. "Daniel! Daniel!" She cried, reaching out to him. To her horror, her hand passed right through him and he did not move, not even a lift of the head. Apparently, he couldn't hear her either. "Am....am I.....dead?" She swallowed hard and lifted her hands to look upon them, the skin alive and flushed, there was no evidence of any trauma, they looked as the always looked.~<c>
Amariette: ~'Of course not silly girl, though I have no doubt in my mind of how pleased you'd be if Mr. Carter here was the angel whom awaited you in the afterlife...' Lifting her eyes again, she noticed a mist gathering behind Daniel's right shoulder, the swirling vapor taking form right before her eyes, the form of a woman, the form of her mother. Amariette gasped and trembled in fear, her mind not understanding and only registering the basic human emotions that flooded her senses. "Brianne...mother....it can't be....you can't be here...not now....you're dead...." The older, and almost identical woman smiled softly and moved toward the girl, her body formed only to the hem of the dress she wore, the dress she was buried in.~<c>
Amariette: ~Having only mist where her feet were supposed to have been, she instead began to glide along the floor, her haunting green eyes faded, but still as piercing as ever. 'There are many stages in death my dear, you will learn this in time, but for now I come to you now to offer direction at this crucial point in your life...and...to warn you.' Amariette's eyes shifted from her deceased mother to Daniel's sullen form, his head still bowed and the rose clutched plainly in his hands, could he see and hear all this, she thought not. "Warn me...warn me about what? Brianne...mother...what are you talking about?" 'You must go with him....you must go with Daniel into the lands far away...into the realms that exist beyond your world....he will need you....yes....need you before the end...'~<c>
Amariette: ~"The end? I don't understand mother, what end? What are you talking about?" 'You are far more important than you know my dear, your father knows this and he tried to escape it, but we can never avoid our destiny...it has a tendency to follow us.' The peasant girl merely stared in disbelief, her face mirroring her own doubt and frustration, "Father will worry....he will....I must..." 'Shhhhh...hush now....don't you worry about Bigham, I'll take care of him....but for now, you must trust me. Go with Daniel...go with him and see....see much girl....your life depends on it..' The mist began to consume the woman once more and Amariette reached out desperately, her eyes filling with tears and her voice pleading, ~<c>
Amariette: ~"No...please don't go yet...mother...no...please!!" Suddenly Amariette Willowbane's eyes opened into the conscious world, and she stirred slowly, her head moving and her eyes settling on Daniel, just as she had saw him not a moment before. Reaching out to touch his head, she spoke softly, barely above a whisper, "Daniel..."~

Daniel Carter: -In the days just after his father's passing Daniel had said nary a word to anyone. A strange thing, the village thought, but his mother knew better. The then-aspiring archaeologist had a strong need to internalize things that wounded him. So she let him sulk and keep to himself, showing her support every now and then when he most needed it and letting him show his in his own quiet way. He did not often speak of such things, hardly ever mentioning James since the accident, though she knew that his father was in almost all of his thoughts, his actions done to make the man proud of him. Recognizing his sublty was half the battle. Here and now he was showing it, the rose was clutched so tightly his knuckles were turning white, though the rest(C)-
Daniel Carter: -of him seemed slack and limp. He blamed himself. How could he have not seen she was bleeding? Of course, he could have never known that she was anemic, but he was more concerned with the root, not the petal. It was a funny thing, he had learned his herb lore like any good wilderness student, surviving all kinds of illness from a near deadly fever in the Athrobian jungle to a broken leg in the Talhet mountains just a year ago in a snowstorm, yet here he was helpless beside a girl he was finding himself more and more fond of with each passing day. It was the most painful emotion in the world. Just like when Dr. James Carter was killed in a cave in off the Ulsterian coast in a minig accident. He had felt helpless then, saying (C)-
Daniel Carter: -'If only I had been there!'. His mother had replied, 'What would you have done, Daniel?' He could not have done anything, and he could not do anything now. What good was studying the past when one could not learn from it?He was still as helpless as he had been at fifteen. It was not a good realization to come to at his age or status. Warmth brought him reeling from his inner thoughts at first touch. Fingertips on the side of his face. He looked up to see that she was indeed awake. A small laugh combined with a sigh of relief to see her eyes open again. As if to pull a full turnabout, this was one of the better feelings he'd ever expereince- stark relief. Reaching up to take her hand he realized he was shaking slightly and with some conscious effort(C)-
Daniel Carter: -managed to all but stop it as he placed the rose back in her fingers again. "You dropped something." He said quietly with only a half smile. His way of telling her how scared he'd been, something he could never fully verbalize, but would always be present in his eyes. (F)-

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~"Where am I? How long have I been out?" She assaulted him with questions as she accepted the rose from his trembling fingers and went quiet again at the look in his somber blue eyes. The man was visibly shaken and she suddenly felt such an outpouring of emotion that she drew up and wrapped her arms about his neck loosely, crushing her body to his and nuzzling her nose against his throat. "I'm so sorry Daniel, please forgive me, I've turned you into a living wreck. It was my fault, I wasn't paying attention..." Her eyes closed and she clung tighter to him, her own body trembling now as soft sobs choked her throat and she subdued them as best she could, holding back the tears that wanted to spill down her cheeks.~<c>
Amariette: ~Finally pulling back to center her gaze on him again, the rose was clutched tightly in her hand and her face was inches from his own. Words escaped her, but her lips continued to part and close as though she had further to say, her own gaze becoming half-lidded with those heavy lashes that curved up at their tips. Tilting her head, her tender voice barely above a whisper, she spoke timidly, a bit subdued, "Daniel, how do you feel about me?" She had to know, at least, try to understand why he showered her with so much open consideration and praise, his attitude somehow different when it concerned her. It had not been beyond her noticing, the way he greeted her each time they met, even when the very Queen herself was present.~<c>
Amariette: ~The way he talked with her with some faint sense of pensive caution and obvious nervous frustatration. He had tried so hard to make her feel warm and nurtured in his company, and Amariette in return, had done her best to remain as respectful and modest as she could. There was something here, she could feel it, but it was time she know what truly went on in his head. "Why did you invite me on such a special journey, when you know so little about me to begin with. Why go through all this trouble, why the rose?" Letting the bloom rest on the mattress beside her, she took his hands into hers and tilted her head in silent inquiry, her lovely face filling with a bit more color, almost as angelic as before.~

Daniel Carter: -Arms wrapped around her as she caught him around the neck, her face in his shoulder. One arm wound tightly around her back the other up he spine to catch her head. He leaned his cheek on hers. "It's ok, it's alright, you're in the medical tent, you fainted because you were bleeding, and you haven't been out that long." He said answering each of her questions in order trying to calm her down. "It's not your fault, just relax, relax. Everything's ok, no one is hurt." It was all he could do, use his common sense toi hold her until she stopped trembling. It was quite the traumatic experience, moreso than he thought it would be what with her bolting up out of bed and grabbing a hold of the first person she saw. When she pulled away, however(C)-
Daniel Carter: -things changed. Oh, the how do you feel about me question? That was the third time this week! He furrowed his brow and sat back a little, looking at her with no answer near at hand. He opened his mouth, but there were no words. For the first time in a long time she had become a distraction from his work. When she was around suddenly translating the world's only known completed Tamil religious scrolls weren't as important as he had originally thought. Preparing for a well funded royal excavation was put on the back burner. Well, who was he to lie, it certainly wasn't about her father's reputation as a blacksmith. He simply closed his lips again and shook his head, looking down at the floor. There were just no words. Not yet. There was no(C)-
Daniel Carter: -clarity in it, and he simply didn't know. So he couldn't answer. It was only when she took his hands that he looked up again, meeting her eyes. The color had returned to her face. Looking at her now thnrough the dimming and filtered light that came through the canvas tent, she probably looked like more to him than any artifact from anywhere in the world could possibly hope to be. He studied her eyes for a moment from behind his glasses and then finally, he answered, in his own way. "I'm glad that you're alright." And a small smile afforded along with a few moments longer a gaze than he really should have. Realizing the awkwardness he withdrew and stood up, pacing around a little and cleaning off his glasses with his shirt. (C)-
Daniel Carter: -"I suppose you'll need to get home soon or your father will start to worry. I... wouldn't want to make a bad impression on him." She was going to have to take that in her own interpretation for he moved right along without explaining it. "I can load your supplies up for you so we can get moving... only if you're feeling better, that is, I don't want to rush you."(F)-

Amariette: ~"No Daniel, I'm not going back to Chartha. Not anymore. I can't explain to you why I've changed my mind, because I really don't understand it myself. My father will not be expecting me home now and I have the freedom to go with you on your journey. Please, don't try to ask me how I know this, or how I can be sure. All those questions have no feasible explanation to accompany them. I will be heading to the farmer's market tonight to hire a courier to transport his things back to him, as well as a letter from me. It's time I became my own woman and accept the true independence that comes in leaving home for the last time. When I left Chartha, I did not realize that I would not be returning, but now all that has changed."~<c>
Amariette: ~"I do appreciate what you have done for me today and I hope that someday I'll be able to repay you for your continuous help." Rising from the straw mattress, she faultered for a moment or two but then steadied herself and smoothed the creases and wrinkles in her still stunning dress. Wincing visibly, she lifted her hand and looked upon the bandage that now adorned her, her eyes more than sad. She was wounded, humiliated, embarassed, and she wanted to get out of his presence as quickly as she could. Drawing past him as he no doubt watched her, she moved to the flap of the tent and drew it up, looking over her shoulder faintly but not meeting his gaze, "If you need me, I'll be returning to the Golden Apple to stay until you are prepared to leave."~<c>
Amariette: ~"I bid you farewell for now Daniel Carter, and I think it proper to remind you that I am eternally at your service. Good afternoon." At that she flew from the tent and was gone, leaving him alone, the rose left on the bed and the petals curled inward. Moving quickly through the crowd, tears spilled down her cheeks freely now, her skin flushed and her eyes blurred and misted in her distress. Stumbling forward, she caught herself before she fell and looked down to find her pack resting at her feet, discarded but whole. Sweeping it up, she clutched the straps and continued on, her pace a quick trot as she vanished in the heavy throng of people, intent on reaching the farmer's market before dark.~

Daniel Carter: -"No... Amariette...wait!" But it was too late. She was gone. He had run to the tent's entrance and watch her go running off into the fairgrounds. He would never find her at this rate. Damn it, what had he done wrong? And why weren't they going back to Chartha... he needed those tools for the Tamil expedition in the winter. Not to mention her father needed her... and if she was going with him why was she running away and crying? He felt confused. The nurse looked up at the poor forlorn man with a small laugh. "Do they usually run away on you after you bring them to aid, Dr. Carter?" He looked over slightly surprised. Apparently he stuck out like a sore thumb and everyone recognized him. "No... I just... I don't know what went wrong..." He replied(C)-
Daniel Carter: -The girl tilted her head and nodded sympathetically, watching him stare, lost, out into the crowd of people. "Dr. Carter... don't just stare. Go after her. I think she just needs to know you'll follow her if she runs." He looked voer again, a quizzical look. And then an enlightened one. Ah, now he understood. "Thank you... for the bandage..." he said, picking up the rose hurridly and running out after her. He jogged along the pathways looking this way and that... maybe he could catch up to her before she got to the Inn... but god only knew what kind of people would be out in the city at this time of night, she could get hurt! He dashed down an alleyway, a shortcut, and started to head for the Golden Apple. He coudl see it just up ahead, maybe(C)-
Daniel Carter: -she wasn't even there yet. Coming out into the town square he couldn't see her in that remarkable red dress, so he went in side, going straight to the bar, nearly pushing aside another customer. "I'm looking for a girl... Amariette Willowbane..." The barkeep looked absently at him. "Look, this is important! She's about... this tall, red hair, red dress..." Still no response. "She has a room here can you at least tell me what number it is so I can see if she's upstairs?" And the fight continued. He could already tell it was going to be a long night.(F)-

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~As the courier waited at the side entrance of the Golden Apple inn with horse and wagon, Amariette was busy writing her letter in the privacy of her room, her quill traveling quickly and easily along the small parchment. Lifting the letter to appraise it herself, she read the script aloud, 'Father, this courier has brought you the items that I purchased per your request here in Emain Macha. Forgive me, but I also bought a few things for myself that I felt I needed as well. The money you gave me has been spent in total, the last coins used for the delivery of this very package. I hope that I made the right choices and that these things help you where I cannot. I say this because, well, I will not be returning to Chartha.'~<c>
Amariette: ~'Upon meeting a certain archeologist named Dr. Daniel Carter of Ulster, I have agreed to journey with him to an especially important excavation. Please forgive me if I cause you any distress with this revelation, but I believe you know why I must go. If you still care for me, I would ask that you serve me now in honor of the woman we both loved once. Dr. Carter will be needing certain tools in the near future and I have come to you on his behalf, the appropriate list will be sent to you soon if you agree to take this very important job. I can be reached at the Golden Apple Inn and I hope to hear from you as soon as possible. I love you very much father and I pray that fate sees us brought together again soon. Love, your chaste and honoring daughter, Amariette. '~<c>
Amariette: ~'P.S. You should have told me the truth.' As she folded the letter and rose from her small desk, she drew across the floor and out her door into the furnished hall, her steps carrying her down the staircase easily enough. Walking quickly lest the courier become impatient, she passed the front desk without lifting her gaze from the floor, completely missing the argument between the inn master and whomever he was conversing with. Nearing the side entrance, she curtsied low to the hooded man and handed him the letter, giving him a few last words of caution and safe travel. Bowing his head to the young woman, she disappeared through the door and out into the night, the sound of the horse and wagon moving off down the street.~<c>
Amariette: ~Watching them on the cobblestones just outside, she raised her hand in silent farewell to what she was hoping would never be forgotten in her heart.~

Daniel Carter: -"Come on, man, why are you being so stubborn? I just need to see her for a minute!" But the innkeep was staunch, "Dr. Carter I can't just give you her room number. If I did that I would be going against the rules of the Inn and..." And Daniel stopped listening to him when he caught sight of a red dress walking quickly by him out the door. "Amariette!" He called, ducking underneath a tapestry and running out after her without so much as a word to the innkeeper who sighed and frowned and shook his head. By the time Daniel made it outside the horse and cart were already pulling away and she was standing somberly watching her father's things wheel off into the now dimming nighttime. He sighed and ran a hand through his hair, very upest(C)-
Daniel Carter: -but trying to keep cool about it. He grasped her arm, but very gently, for he'd never before raised a hand against another person, he certainly wasn't going to start now. "Amariette... what's going on? Why did you run away from me?" He looked almost... hurt. Blue eyes locked on her, eyebrows knitted together showed the fear that perhaps he had done something to offend or scare her away. His brow was beaded with sweat from running after her, chasing her down through the entire city all of the way from the fair to here. He licked his lips to try to rid himself of that dry feeling he had in his mouth when he got upset and tried to take a few deep breaths. Why was this happening, why? "I don't understand what it is that you want me to do."(C)-
Daniel Carter: -He was searching her face for an answer, as if he had done something wrong that he needed to fix. "Please... Amariette..." He took her other arm in hand, frustrated, with himself, with her, with the whole city, but more than anything, just himself, "Just tell me what you want me to do and I'll do it."(F)-

Amariette: ~"Daniel...please...." She struggled in his grasp weakly, her face drawn and weary, as her eyes met his and the green orbs stared out with obvious fatigue and depression. Taking a step back, she pulled herself free in the most polite way she could and turned her back to him, preparing to return to her room where she could sort her own thoughts on all that had happened today. Before she could take one step, instant regret tugged upon her heart, she couldn't just leave him like this. Not only was it horribly rude and in poor taste, but god just look at him! He was an absolute mess, even more so than when she had first met him earlier in the day.~<c>
Amariette: ~Looking back over her shoulder with an apologetic frown, she reached out and took his hand, "Come with me, we need to get you cleaned up first before anything else." Leading him back into the Golden Apple, she drew past the gathering patrons of the tavern portion and moved to the front counter, the inn master looking rather surprised to see her with Daniel in hand. "I need a bath brought for Mr. Carter please sir, he is to wash and be provided with a fresh pair of clothes, all brought to my room, I'm sure you have something that will be more than fitting for a man of his stature and importance." The inn master let his gaze move from her to Daniel and he frowned openly but nodded his head, determined to assist the sweet girl in any way possible.~<c>
Amariette: ~"Aye miss, I'll have everything you need sent up to you, free of charge." Bowing her head, she offered the sweetest smile she could in her condition, "You honor me, thank you very much." Renewing her pace, she lead him up the wide staircase and down the rather long corridor of the upper hall, her room at the very end on the right. Slipping the key inside, she allowed him in first and then closed it firmly behind her, the room rather neat and clean, candles lit all about to illuminate the space brightly. Motioning to the chair that accompanied her small writing desk, she did not meet his gaze again and merely spoke in a soft, and shrewd tone, "Please, make yourself as comfortable as possible."~<c>
Amariette: ~"There is much to be told, and I doubt whether you will understand or believe in most of my tale. First I must apologize for my question in the tent earlier, it was not my place to inquire such a thing. I only embarassed myself and stirred a pot that had yet to even begin boiling, for that I am ashamed and I beg your forgiveness."~

Daniel Carter: -He followed obediently, just glad to be able to talk this out with her instead of being shut out for the night. He was the kind of person that let things go fairly quickly, given that they were resolved right away. Had he been turned away he would have paced the castle all night unable to even study and would have gotten no sleep. He sat on the offered chair, feeling awkward and still a little estranged from the situation, as if she was only humoring him out of pity or obligation of status. "I should have answered you." He said in response to her apologizing for asking him. "You have a right to know." He continued, starting to calm down, but his frustration was still evident. Propping his elbows on his kness he took off his glasses and(C)-
Daniel Carter: -rubbed his eyes. "Listen to me. Right to know what? I don't even know what I'm talking about. I couldn't answer your question if I tried to." He said, resting his head tiredly on his palms. "I'm sorry, i'm rambling." He looked up after a few moments of gathering composure and watched her in silence. She wouldn't even look at him. Had he missed something? Had he done something to upset her, and if he had, how could he go about asking so as to fix it? If Halar could see this, he would understand why Daniel didn't go about dating. The dead never complained, at least. Heiroglyphs were one of the world's biggest mysteries, but not to him. He could crack any language, translate any rune, but the one thing he would never be able to understand(C)-
Daniel Carter: -was the fairer sex. He sighed a small sigh. "I take it you have something to tell me that would explain why you just sent all your father's things away in cart and ran out of that medical tent?" He looked hurt still, as if mentioning it had stung in its own way. He blamed himself, and that was evident, though the hard part was that he didn't quite know what he was blaming himself for. Eleven years of solitude certainly had not served him too well now, had it? He had probably driven her off by now anyway, he surmised, though she did say she was coming on the dig. Her reasons? He could not be so sure.(F)-

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Amariette: ~"I don't want to discuss the tent anymore Daniel, at least, not now at any rate...please. There are more pressing matters to attend to and it would do us both some good to have at it now rather than later. There is something about me that you do not know but must if any good is to come of me going with you to Invernis. Please, I would ask you not to speak until I was completely done with my story, though it may be a long and difficult one to tell. Daniel, I have kept a secret deep inside me that no one save for my father knows, not even the village is aware of the existence of my special 'talent'" She laughed bitterly at that, the tone terrifyingly cold and indifferent, almost a sickening cackle that could knot even the strongest of stomachs.~<c>
Amariette: ~Falling silent once again, she drew toward her balcony window and stared out into the night, her eyes raised to the darkened sky and glimmering stars that laid scattered about the heavens. "I suppose talent isn't even the correct word for it, but, should I try to search for a more fitting label, I would surely bring myself to tears. Perhaps it would be best if I showed you." Moving across the floor on soundless feet, she stood before him and slipped to her knees, drawing her hands up to push her long crimson hair back over her shoulders. Lifting her emerald gaze to him, she reached up and took his hands, letting the palms rest naturally against her own.~<c>
Amariette: ~Inhaling deeply, she kept her eyes locked on him, the very look in her gaze demanding that he do the same as her lips pressed together in a tight and determined line of concentration. Slowly he could feel a chilling cold seeping from her fingertips, creeping into his very skin and growing along the length of his arms, her lips beginning to turn a faint blue. The icy sensation pushed its way up into his shoulders and began to fill his chest, rooting itself into his lungs and making him feel as if the precious oxygen was being stolen and snuffed out. The green luster of her eyes was fading, shriveling until the pools were a haunting translucent gray that made her appear as one of the dead.~<c>
Amariette: ~Slowly, her lips parted and her tender voice flowed outward, it was not her familiar tone, but that of some ancient prophet made flesh, "The terrain is unstable, too dangerous to continue....we must....postpone...cease....digging....the mines are too shallow......waves crashing against the shore...jagged cliff peaks.....make them deeper.....secure the foundation......an accident........cries of pain....screams....we are trapped.....where is he.....one missing....the one....rocks falling everywhere.....Carter...find him......buried....buried and gone....." Gasping for air now, Amariette's body jerked hard and she fell back onto her buttocks, her hands falling back to support her and her head turned away from him, shielding her face from view behind ruby locks.~<c>
Amariette: ~Coughing shallowly, she whispered, "It was him wasn't it Daniel....James......your father?"~

Daniel Carter: -He was hesitant, for he didn't know what she was doing, but he humored her and let her rest her hands on top of his. He was not one to believe in magic or voodoo. He was a scientist and a historian, if he believed in all that hoodoo and hocus pocus it would get in the way of his job. He felt a cold tingling in his hands. 'It's just cold in here'. He thought, until like icicles the cold expanded up into his chest nearly stealing his very breath from him, seeping into his body with a tingling madness that he could not shake. He felt frozen from the inside out, but it was still summer and the breeze tonight was warm. The fear did not set in until his eyes. locked with hers, watched helplessly as all of the color drained into a lifeless gray that was so hollow(C)-
Daniel Carter: -and so forlorn that he could almost not contain himself and fought the urge to cry out to her and tell her to stop this madness. But he could not, for what came next was the most shattering thing he had ever heard in his young life. He could only watch her lips in utter horror was whatever was inside of her recited his father's last words and the collapse of the mine, his father's death, the mining squad's scrambling to free him.. .oh god. He hadn't died on impact. He had asphixiated underground after the cave in. When she let go he jerked his hands away, sitting in frozen silence fighting back the threat of tears building behind his eyes. It was like he was there... watching it happen... it was like he'd lost him all over again. It was several(C)-
Daniel Carter: -minutes before he could actually look at her again, and when he did, his face was contorted with pain, distraught and different from before. He could no longer stifle those emotions he didn't know how to handle. "My father... Dr. James Carter... first chair of the International Archaeology Committee, husband to Magdaline Carter... died thirteen years ago in a freak mining accident off the coast of Ulster when the foundation gave way and buried him alive inside of the cave they were exploring." He said, his voice choking up at the memory. They had a closed casket ceremony, but Maggie had taken her teenaged son to identify the body with her, a choice she did not want to make but had never regretted for the closure it had given her son(C)-
Daniel Carter: -was more than enough to justify what she had done. "How..." He asked, chewing his bottom lip and taking a deep breath to regain some sense of control over the situation, "did you know about him? What they said?" He asked, his voice so strained it sounded like me might break down and lose himself at any moment, such an old wound reopened for him could not weigh well on him during an already stressful conversation.(F)-

Amariette: ~Amariette shook her head as her own eyes were wide and filled with tears, her entire body rigid and trembling and her skin as pale as death. Swallowing, she couldn't shake the feeling, the feeling he hadn't felt, the sensations that she had blocked from him. The girl actually relived the death of the elder Carter as she channeled his final moments from his son's very soul and made them known to her own mind. Even now she could taste the dirt and grit blocking the air that her lungs desperately needed; she could feel the pressure of the stones pushing in on her body, breaking bones and cutting the skin; the worst however, the very worst she could feel, was the panic, the overwhelming panic of a life in its final moments and then...silence.~<c>
Amariette: ~"Daniel....I am a seer. By touch, I can channel a person's past, present, and future. I also can make the person feel whatever fate may have awaited them, is happening to them, and may await them yet. I never knew about James, not until now, and I spared you the emotions and physical experience of his last minutes. Please, give me a moment, I haven't done this for a long time and well...." She went silent again as she curled into a ball on the floor and wept bitterly, her body shivering and jerking in some unseen suffering that he could only have imagined. However, she, was living it at this very point in time, and the obvious kindness displayed by her self sacrifice was more than apparent.~<c>
Amariette: ~After those initial agonizing minutes, she went still and slowly rose back onto her knees, her cheeks stained with tears but her face once again passive and almost catatonic, the episode had passed. "I'm not going to tell you what it felt like, what he had to endure, but I can tell you that he died thinking of you and your mother, thinking...of how much he loved you both." Rising to her feet, she moved against him and drew him to her, pressing his head against her stomach and her fingers stroking through his hair, allowing him the reassurance that he could grieve in her presence. It was obvious that he had tried his best to bury the pain deep inside, thinking that if he ignored it, it would eventually go away.~<c>
Amariette: ~This was not the case, and now he was only just realizing it, she cradled him to her and let her eyes close, trying to block out the images of the archeologists final moments.~

[Dr. Daniel Carter]

Daniel Carter: -He couldn't say anything to her. Why had she shown him this? Why had she gone to the effort to tell him and remind him of those things he pushed away, thought he had resolved? It was this new information that stung so badly. It was thirteen years he had gone on believing his beloved father had been killed instantly, that his head had been bashed in and he felt no pain... but that was a lie. How could anyone have known, though? They could only assume from what they saw. They didn't know that he had gasped for breath until the dirt and coal had filled his lungs and killed him crying for help. But it was all an accident, there was no one to blame. He couldn't blame anyone. 'Death happens, sometimes, Danny.' James had told his son (C)-
Daniel Carter: -when he was still a boy and they had found a dead wolf in the forest. Daniel closed his eyes, remembering the time he spent with the brown eyed bearded man, happy and kind to everyone, but always a bit scattered in the mind. 'It's not always a bad thing,' he had said to his little boy, 'Things have to die, otherwise other things can't live. It's a cycle, Danny, and we all take our turn at some point. It's the way of the world.' Danny had nodded and understood, even though a nine year old boy, 'You shouldn't cry for things that have died. They're not gone for good, they're just not here anymore. They've gone to the next place they need to go. That's why when people die we give them a wake, to wish them well in the next place. Do you understand, Danny?'(C)-
Daniel Carter: -Daniel smiled a little thinking on it as she cradled him against her. For one so young, he thought to himself, she was stronger and bolder than most men his age. "Thank you." He said after a while of letting her stroke his hair and console him for his loss. "He was a good man and a good father... a good husband. I'll see him again." That was about the extent of his spirituality of course, but that didn't matter much at the moment. Taking her hands he tugged her down to kneel as he sat on the chair. He took her face gentle as he could and laid a kiss on her forehead. "You are one of the kindest... most interesting women I've ever met." He said, the smile enough to finally swallow the tears he had not let be shed in the memory of his father(C)-
Daniel Carter: -"Just promise me one thing..." He said letting his hands find hers and giving them a good squeeze. "Don't even do anything like that to me again without warning me firt, ok?" He said, trying to make a small joke out of it and a small smile. Smile... yes. Smile through the pain. It would be ok, he thought, he would talk to Maggie again when he got back to Invernis. And he would take Amariette with him... maybe he had been right about being on the 'right track' after all.(F)-

Amariette: ~"Yes....I'm sorry Daniel. I promise. The story doesn't end there though, and now is the time to return to the tent. In fact, I think that...." Just as she was beginning, there was a knock at her door and Amariette rose to her feet and drew across the room to release the lock and open it quickly. Two young peasant girls brought in a large tub and a folded stack of warm clothes, freshly pressed and crisp to the touch. Offering modest curtsies, they brought in the items and began to set them up as was their duty in the inn she surmised. Raising her hand, Amariette smiled to the girls and crowded them close to her, reaching behind their pigtails and revealing two silver coins as their eyes marveled.~<c>
Amariette: ~Handing one to each, she gave them firm pats on their behinds and sent them away giggling, choosing to run Daniel's bath herself. After some time, the tub with filled with fresh, steaming bath water and she motioned to the clothes that she had laid out for him over her bed. "For now we will cease our conversation until you are more presentable. I will leave you to it. If you need me, I'll be downstairs with the innkeeper and his son and daughters. Enjoy your bath Daniel.." Lifting her hem in one hand, she gave a modest curtsy once again and vanished through the door, closing it firmly behind her and strolling down the hall at a casual pace, her face wiped clean and a soft smile on her lips.~<c>
Amariette: ~Her cheeks were still scarlet from the kiss he had given her, but she didn't deny the fact that she wished it had been placed on her lips instead. Giggling to herself, she descended the stairs to find a group of musicians and bards playing lively tunes to which a few patrons began dancing jigs. After group urging, she herself joined in and lifted her hem to dance and twirl about the room, men and women laughing and cheering and calling for more drink and food.~