Author's Note: Sorry this chapter took so long.

They reappeared in another cold dense fog and as it started to thin they heard Newcombe’s voice say, “I’m glad you’re back because you are needed.”

“I’ll be there when you need me,” Gervais said.

“We’ll be there,” Tommy said.

“All five of us,” Myste added and the waiting men gaped as the fog thinned enough for them to realize that although four had left five came back. They gaped wider when the fog had lessened enough for them to recognize her and see that she was wearing leather and chainmail with a distinctly functional look to it as well as a sword and a dagger in well worn sheaths.

The Baron waved their questions away, “It’s a long story and I’ll want to be sitting comfortably for it. So why don’t we go back to the manor and we can all tell what we saw and heard while relaxing in the library?”

Colin smirked, “It’s also possible that we might have a lovely new drink to share with you by the time we get there. Although maybe not yet as it does have a long way to go.”

Newcombe and the others were even more curious after that statement but reluctantly agreed to wait and after securing the rooms under the ruin they all went back to the manor. Once seated comfortably in the library the questions started up again. After getting a oath out of them to tell no one else about it Gervais told his story followed by the other telling of their experiences ending with Myste.

“Now remember you are all sworn to keep this to yourselves,” the baron said afterward.

“Yes, of course,” one of the guards said. “But this is wonderful news. We can help you with the necessary documents if you need it lady.”

Myste smiled, “I thank you but it is not necessary. My Lady Freya has seen fit to provide.“ She brought out identification documents that looked perfectly genuine then added, “And the folks at the inn think that the Baron was so captivated by me after our night of passion that he came back and offered to take me back with him to his manor.” She smiled, “As far as they or anyone knows I agreed and am happily living in sin with him here.”

Newcombe and the guards just nodded but Gervais blushed and his friends smiled. “She did say that whether or not you did anything of the sort was entirely up to you. I don’t want you or anyone to think I’m trying to pressure you into anything.”

Myste smiled, “Yes dear. You are a gentleman and I’m sure they all know that.” She stood and stretched, “Now it is late and we have had a very eventful day so I suggest we all go to bed and get some rest … eventually.” She reached a hand to Gervais, “Coming milord?”

As he took her hand Tommy said, “Not at the moment but I’d wager he will be!”

Gervais punched his shoulder as he passed, “You’re just jealous you’ll be sleeping alone.”

Myste rolled her eyes, “Ignore his infantile innuendo milord.” She led him from the room and the servants led the rest to guest rooms for the night.

The next morning Gervais wakes up and manages to slide out from under Myste without waking her and gets into the shower. When he gets back into the bedroom Myste is awake and stretching sleepily.

Gervais smiled, “That's amazing to watch but I think we need to go buy you some modern clothes. Just in case you want to leave the house some time and blend in.”

Myste laughed, “Hopefully we have time for breakfast first?”

He dressed as he thought then said, “Certainly! I'll meet you downstairs then. After breakfast we'll make a day of it. It'll be a combination tour of the neighborhood and shopping trip.”

However right after breakfast the young Baron decided to put on the helmet and see what happened.

His mind filled with arcane knowledge. It took him several minutes to get used to the sensation but while wearing it he had great knowledge of magic. Only order based magic of course, but quite a lot of that was useful.

Putting the helmet aside for now the guys started sparring with Myste to get better at swordplay and she started reading up on the history of the world since she and her sisters were last here.

Gervais was correct in that gossip ran a bit amok at the news that he had met a girl in a local tavern and after a one night stand brought her home with him. However Freya was also right in that Myste was completely indifferent to any stares or whispers when she was in town and eventually it blew over. Myste and Gervais spent the month of July getting used to each other and she quickly became one of the gang to the other guys.

As August started they received their first call to action and while slightly nervous they were also eager to put their abilities to use and help people.