when I am approached by a young warrior dressed in Trinovante colors. I really don't have time for this, I think as she asks for employment. I have to see about Missionaria, then see about dressing for dinner with the Brehyrion and his War Chief.

I'm about to brush her aside, when I remember my good manners. I'm a guest in this territory and I should reciprocate their hospitality if I can.

Motioning the young girl to the bench, I indicate that she should sit. As she does, I take a seat beside her.

Now that I've taken a moment to notice, I see that she's younger than I had first supposed. About 17 or 18, I would judge. The long scar on her face makes her seem older than her actual years. It runs down her right cheek from eyebrow clear to the corner of her mouth...it puckers a bit...not quite healed.

"You don't have a bodyguard, m'lady," she repeats. "And I'm for hire." She looks at me earnestly before she continues, "I'll fight anyone you like to prove myself."

I look at her well muscled arms, and the long lines of her legs. Aye, this one's a fighter, for sure. And not given to the feminine world, I think, looking at her unruly blond hair. No fashion, no artifice...just the arts martial.

"And what would your name be, lass?" I ask quietly. "And why do you come to me?"

"My name is Rowyn," she says. She looks at me, determination in every muscle. "I'm good. And I want to work for a woman." She laughs. "Men and I don't always see eye-to-eye."

Her candor is refreshing. It might be nice to have a female companion. The Duality knows I've got enough men to contend with!

I rise and extend my hand. "Welcome, Rowyn of the Trinovantes. I will try your services for the time we are here. If we get along well, we make make it more permanent."

Her look of gratitude is nearly more than I can bear. "Come. Let me introduce you to Aelwid. He'll get you settled in while I attend to some business."

I head off to the tent with Rowyn following on my left flank. Now to see to Missionaria...