Finally when she thought it was safe, she found a cave and curled up for a few moments of sleep. When she awakened in the morning, she peeked out of the cave to the bright sunshine and freshly laden snow. Thank god her father had taught her how to figure out directions. For she now would be able to find her way back home. She looked up at the rising sun, and knowing if there be snow here they must have sailed north, she would have to head south to make her way back home.
She walked all morning, and all she saw was the beauty of the forest. She could feel the grumbling of her stomach for she had not eaten in days. She had however scooped up snow to refresh her mouth. Then up in the distance she saw a small wood cabin. Slowly she approached in fear of being seen and being captured again.
As she approached not a soul did she see, peeking into the doorway, she saw some bread and cheese on a small table. Quietly she entered the cabin, calling out in a low voice �greetings anyone here�. No answer came. She quickly took some of the cheese and bread, knowing it was wrong to steal, but so hungry, she thought if I only take a bit, surely the owner would not notice. Then as quickly as she entered, she left.
She continued her journey south. Nibbling on the cheese and bread very little to make it last for she no not when she would find food again. If only she had a bow and arrow, she would be able to hunt for her food. Two more days she walked, finding safe havens among the forest where she might rest. Her body hurting and her mind all a mix, she thought for sure she would die out here with none to care one way or the other.
On the third day, the food had run out. The only pleasure she had now was the weather was getting warmer the more south she got. Then, when she thought she could not walk anymore, ahead of her she saw the towers of a great castle. Dragging her frail and weak body, she no longer feared of meeting people, she just wanted a hot bath and food and to sleep on a soft bed, she entered the Great Hall of the Castle.
Entering the castle very quietly, she noticed Ladies and Lords by an oval table in front of a great fireplace. She was greeted, by soft and kind voices and offered some tea as a M�Lord. Remembering she was dressed in the Captain�s clothing and knowing she was dusty and smelling of fish, she declined, but asked politely, if she may get a bath and a change of clothing and correcting them that she was a woman and not a man.
She told these kind people that she was a traveler, and that her horse had been stolen, knowing that she had lied, but ashamed to tell them the truth.
Being tired of fear and hunger and in need of a new home she stays at Castle, hoping that she may receive the vote from the Counsel to make this her permanent home. Knowing eventually she will have to trust someone with her dark secrets. Every day she comes to visit and sits by the fireplace drinking white wine in a silver goblet, hoping to rebuild her life and heart.
So come into the Castle and keep the Lady of the North company and find out how this story continues�
And it does continue and takes turns that no one would ever believe����
