Eriana has had a nervous breakdown and is being treated at Joth's new Clinic. The ferocity of the Rains mean that those inside are trapped there, forced to fall back on their own knowledge.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

105 - Eriana Adrift

Disclaimer: The original characters and plot of this story are the property of the author. No infringement of pre-existing copyright is intended. This story is copyright (c) 2025 Penny Lane. All rights reserved.

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Hanida and Ursula exchanged glances, the resident healer twitching her head to ask that Ursula follow her away to a quieter spot to speak. Ursula looked undecided until Bennet and Semma approached from the front, wanting to know what was happening.

She spoke low to them. "Could you keep watch over Her Highness while we have a talk, please. She appears not to recognize anyone and thinks the ship and everyone on it was lost. You may have to restrain her if she tries to get off the bed. Will you do that?"

Bennet replied just as quietly, "Director, we saw what she was like on the ship. I am not surprised this has happened. We will do as you ask."

"Thank you."

Hanida led Ursula over to the other side where they could stand in one of the empty cubicles to muffle their voices.

"Do you know what is wrong, Ursula?"

"I think it is just overwork, the stress of having too much to think about and then to do. Her Highness has been appointed the head of the new Federation Navy and I believe the demands are too much for her."

"Ah, Federation Navy? What is that?"

Ursula briefly explained, then added, "I think the..." straw that broke the camel's back? "...extra load that broke her was our passage downstream past the Cauldron. Have you ever been that way on the river?"

"No, Ursula, I have never left Joth. I have heard of it, of course, but do not really know what it is."

"Hmm. Let me think. It is a little like... can you imagine a sink full of water? What happens when you pull the plug out?"

"Why, the water goes down, of course... Ah! It swirls around and around, does it not? Do you tell me the Cauldron is like that only much bigger?"

"Much bigger! It could swallow any barge you have ever seen, Hanida. It could swallow this building whole! Fortunately it is well known and understood and it is straightforward enough to circle around the outside to pass by either way. I did not say it was easy, it does need an experienced pilot to make the passage."

"Ah, as you say. But you have already made this passage once, I deem, so what caused the difference this time? Had you been caught by the Rains at that point, that you could not see the Cauldron?"

"No, not at that time, that came later. It seems that when the river level drops very low then unseen things on the river bed start having noticeable effects. It looks as if some hidden obstructions caused a small waterfall, just before we reached the Cauldron."

"A waterfall! Maker! This is what you mentioned before, is it?"

"Yes. Fortunately it was only - only! - about two... strides... high and we were able to slide over it and drop onto the lower level. Any higher and a vessel as big as ours might have broken in two."

"As large as yours? If I may ask how large?"

"I was told about thirty strides long and that sounds about right to me. Now Her Highness was sitting, with the rest of us women, near the front of the ship and of course the man steering was right at the back. She saw the water disappearing over the fall and thought it was going to be a long way down so began to panic. We had to hold her down to stop her going to the back and issuing instructions which could have put us all in danger.

"Then, once we were safely over, I saw that there were two Cauldrons and we would have to steer exactly between the two of them to survive. I made the decision that Her Highness should have a sedative to prevent her panicking again. I had to ask someone - it may have been Bennet - to go and fetch my basket. Finding the potion and putting some in a beaker with some water was done in a hurry. I'm sorry, Hanida, it was unprofessional of me, I should have been more careful."

"I do not think any one of us could have behaved any different, Ursula. I cannot imagine what pressure you must have been under, with the river taking you along and things that had not been there before causing you all to make decisions quickly. If I may ask how you knew that Her Highness was panicking? There is, as you know, little difference between outright fear and losing control because of it."

"I do know! I have been in that same position... on occasions in my past... before I came to the Great Valley. I recognized the symptoms but did not think, until that happened, that I needed to intervene. You see, she had already been doubting herself for some days before and I wondered if she was beginning to crack under the strain. That's why I was able to do something immediately it happened."

"Ah. And yet you have all arrived safely at Joth, I deem. The past cannot be changed, what is done is done, have you any thoughts for the future?"

A call came from the other side. "Director!"

Ursula called back, "Coming." She turned to Hanida. "You had better join us. I need to know more about tasan and what effect it is going to have on Her Highness."

"As you say."

They arrived at the same time as Luthan, but he gestured to them to attend Eriana and just stood back, watching. As before, her eyes were open but she looked distinctly disoriented. She fixed her gaze on Ursula with a frown.

"Ursula? I thought we left you in Joth when we departed?"

Ursula opened her mouth but could not find anything appropriate to say that would not cause more confusion. She turned to Hanida with a tiny shake of her head.

Hanida took the simple option and asked Eriana, "Your Highness, are you hungry or thirsty? We can bring you food and drink, though our selection may be more limited than you are used to."

"I -" Eriana tried to concentrate, then replied, "If you would. Not beer. I feel as if I have already had too much beer."

"I will fetch something appropriate, Highness. By your leave."

Hanida bobbed and then went to the kitchen area. Eriana gazed at each remaining face in turn but there was little sign of recognition.

"What is this place? Why are you here, Ursula? Is this a Chamber of the Sick?"

"It is a whole building of the sick, Highness." I'll keep the explanation simple. "I am here to look after you. You have been very unwell. It may be some time before everything returns to you."

Eriana sighed. "Aye. It is a bad hangover, I deem, like that other one." A frown. "When did that one happen? I do not recall."

"At Gylfi's Rest, Highness."

"Gylfi? He is here? One of the best of my brave men. I would greet him."

Oh dear. Her memories are really scrambled. This could take some time.

Trying to keep a straight face Ursula replied, "Gylfi is resting now, Highness. He was very tired, it would be a shame to wake him now."

"Ah. As you say." Her eyes closed and she relaxed onto the bed.

Bennet came to Ursula and spoke low. "This sounds bad, Director. Do you know if she will recover completely?"

"I'm not sure, Bennet. Apparently I either used the wrong potion or gave her too much of it. But you know what state we were all in when that happened."

The Guardswoman nodded. "You did your best, Director. If you do not know this potion, would the other healer?"

"Apparently so. Let us all get settled and then we can decide on a course of recovery for her."

Another nod. "We trust you, Director. I know that injuries of the mind can take time to heal."

But on Earth I did not deal with injuries of the mind, not really. Not when I could hand them off to someone who did know how to handle them.

Hanida returned with a mug of pel and a plate containing some sliced meat, cheese and a few small fruits.

"I regret all the bread has been eaten so - Oh, does she sleep?"

"She drifted off but I'm sure she is not deeply asleep yet. I'll try and wake her."

Ursula moved Eriana's shoulder in the way she would have tried to waken a patient on Earth. Eriana started, then shuddered before opening her eyes.

"Who are you? What are you doing in my chamber?"

"We have brought food, Highness," Ursula replied. "The larder is almost empty, but it should be enough to satisfy you for the moment."

"What?" She sounded suspicious. "Where are my maids?"

"They are about other business for you, Highness. You have a bad hangover and are recovering. Do you not remember?"

"Uhhh. Food, you say?" She reached out, not for the plate but for the mug. "What is this in here? I do not know it."

Ursula remembered what had happened with Ketko. "It is a special potion, Highness, to help with your hangover. You have had it before, you like the taste."

"I have? I do?" Eriana took a sip. "It is as you say." She frowned. «Why is everyone speaking the Northern tongue?»

"Because that is where you are, Highness. Do you not remember?"

The Princess frowned. "No." She took a good drink from the mug. "What is that food? Ah, good meats and cheeses. Oh, and fruits from the north as well! Give me the plate."

She almost grabbed the plate from Hanida and began eating the contents, using her bare fingers to stuff slices of meat in her mouth. After a while she finished most of it and turned to the pel, which she drained in one gulp. Suddenly she looked about the cubicle with an almost guilty look on her face.

"Does my father know that you are all here in my chamber?"

Ursula replied, "He does, Highness."

Not knowing how her father might have treated her she was careful not to say any more. Hanida opened her mouth but Ursula gave her a look which prevented the healer from causing any potential problems.

"If you would return the mug and plate to me you can rest a little longer, Highness," Ursula suggested. "I am sure your head will feel better after a good sleep."

Eriana handed the plate and mug over, asking, "I have not seen you in my father's hall before. What is your name?"

"I am Ursula, Highness."

"Ursula? I know that name, it is in one of our sagas." She frowned. "I don't - That's strange." There was a pause. "Maybe you are right, I will rest a while."

Eriana lay back and closed her eyes. The crowd around her bed looked at each other.

Luthan suggested, "We have matters to decide. If we may move some distance away so that we do not disturb Her Highness."

They moved to the top of the ramp, from where they could still see Eriana but their voices would be partly obscured by the rainfall on the roof.

He said, "The men tell me they are ready to attempt the return to the warehouse. Director, are the people you named still intent on remaining here?"

"They are, My Lord."

"And all the chests have been brought up, I have seen them... Are you content that you will have everything you need to attend Her Highness? Once we depart, no-one will know what transpires here for maybe a week or so, till the downpour slackens, so I must know now if you might require further supplies - of anything."

Ursula replied, "For myself, I think we have brought all we might need to just camp out here for that time. However, I think Hanida is concerned that the extra numbers will go through her supplies quicker. Hanida? Do we need more medical supplies or anything else?"

"Milord, Director, we probably have enough to last us for at least a month with those numbers. Wood for cooking or for washing may be more of a problem, as it is for everybody during the Rains. As I told Ursula before you joined us, Milord, we have good stocks of medical supplies so should be able to manage.

"My main problem will be baking bread, since my own efforts are at best edible and the other healer who would have joined us, who does bake, did not arrive in time. I was going to ask Ursula if she knew sufficient of the art to help."

"I have worked in restaurants - places serving food to passers-by for coin - but I have never made any here," on Anmar, "in the Great Valley. I do not know the ingredients well enough. I can peel vegetables, I have made cakes and pastries in His Grace's kitchen, but I have never made bread."

"Oh. Then -"

"By your leave," Bennet interrupted, "before I became a Guardswoman for the King I worked in Palarand's palace kitchens. Because of my size and strength I was frequently asked to knead and prove their bread. Director, if I stay here I could be of use preparing food for everyone."

Hanida turned to Bennet, interested. "You can make bread for us, if I show you our ingredients? I hesitate to ask but you would be a great help to those who remain if so."

"I can make bread, aye, as I have said." Bennet had an idea. "With your bread oven I can also make a food new to Palarand, something called peet-zers. If you have sausage and cheese, I can -"

Hanida held up a hand. "Hold, Mistress! It was Tenant Maralin who gave all Joth the recipe for peet-zers some months ago. We do, of course, have all the ingredients for peet-zers in the Clinic, but they are foods we would normally only consume once the fresh food is gone."

"Ah." Bennet nodded. "I had forgotten that it was Maralin who brought the recipe to the palace in the first place! As you say, they can be left for later. But I can make loaves of bread so my offer is still open. Director? Would it cause any problems for you if I should remain here?"

Things are beginning to get out of hand! Where is everyone going to sleep?

"In theory, Bennet, I have no problem with you being here instead of in Foti Lane."

"By your leave," Luthan interrupted, "If Guardswoman Bennet remains here then that must mean that Guardswoman Semma would return with the wagon to the warehouse - on her own. Is this wise?"

I was trying to avoid overcrowding the Clinic. What do I do?

"Director," Tyra suggested, "if it would help the numbers then I could return with Semma to Foti Lane. I would prefer to remain by your side but the more who stay here the more difficult it will be to find room for everyone, and it would mean another mouth to feed."

"It is a sensible thought, Tyra, and thank you. I assume you'll go back to your family?"

"Of course, Director. Perhaps, when the Rains slacken, I could return here and resume my duties."

Bennet said, "I have acted as companion to you before, Director. If you would accept my assistance for this short while I would be willing to help until Tyra returns."

"Are you both sure?"

"I am, Director."

"Aye, Director."

"Then we'd better sort out your clothing from the chests. Hanida, do you have a bag we could borrow to put Tyra's things in? There are not that many, most of our things we have left at the warehouse, thinking we wouldn't need them for a while."

"I may, Ursula. It depends on how much attire Tyra has brought with her."

"I'm not sure. Tyra?"

"We picked out the chest containing my travel attire, Director. That could go back in the wagon with me. There should be no need to only take part. The other chests are still in the warehouse."

Hanida was surprised. "The other chests? Why, Tyra, how many did you have?"

"Both the Director and I have three chests, Mistress. One of each is our traveling day and night wear, which we would take into a hostel or campsite along the way. Another pair has evening gowns for the Director and some of our less-used uniform attire while our third has riding gear, helmets and, for my Mistress, some medical supplies and for me, my swords, knives and other armswoman's attire."

The healer stared at both of them. "Riding gear? Swords? Maker! I see there are questions I would ask but not now, we must get these men back to the warehouse. If you would point out your chest, Tyra, I will ask two of the men to carry it back to the wagon. Oh, and of course we'll need to return Guardswoman Semma's chest as well." Hanida was struck by a thought. "Guardswoman, I suspect that you and Guardswoman Bennet also have other chests, is it not so?"

Semma replied, "Aye, Mistress, and so does Her Highness. We all ride and, apart from Director Ursula, we all train and exercise with armsmen of whichever forces we happen to be visiting." She pointed to one in the stack. "This is my chest, Mistress."

With Bennet, Ketko and Kaldar keeping an eye on Eriana, most of the others went below, carrying the two required chests. These were then loaded onto the wagon. The space was just about wide enough to turn the wagon inside the front of the loading area before the doors were opened onto the torrent outside. All who were leaving donned their wet-weather gear and positioned themselves inside or in front of the wagon.

Ursula leaned into the back of the wagon. "Tyra, say hello to your family for me. When it is possible for me to follow you I will come to Foti Lane and meet all of them again."

"Of course, Director. They will be delighted to see you - even Teen."

Luthan had a word before he went to the front. "Director, I am somewhat disturbed by the ailment which afflicts Her Highness. Like the others I will be stuck in Foti Lane until this," he gestured at the wall of water outside, "relents, but immediately it slackens I will return here to discover any improvement - or lack of it. Both she, and you, Director, are important to the future of the Great Valley and my father will do everything he can to ensure that you are both safe and well."

"Thank you, My Lord," Ursula replied. She cocked her head. "You seem different since we met before, My Lord."

"I will not argue with you, Director. I respect you too much. By your leave."

Luthan bowed, turned and made his way to the front of the drawbar. With an arm raised and then swept forward, the men began pulling the wagon outside into the downpour. Within a few short steps it had completely disappeared from view. Hanida shook her head and pushed the double doors shut, reducing the noise levels considerably.

"That's that. Shall we go above, Director? We must begin to prepare an evening meal, I deem, and then - we have much to discuss one with the other."

* * *

As the bread was baking all the women took advantage of the hot water which was the by-product to have a quick wash down, all helping each other in the same tub and afterwards, which resulted in the usual conversation.

"You are wearing bras! I have heard of them, of course, since Her Grace showed them to our seamstresses, but I have not seen anyone wearing one until today. They look different than our usual bodices."

Ursula explained that it was the women aboard the Visund who had arrived wearing them. And that the patterns had eventually followed the actual garments from Palarand. Since some of the women had joined the voyage later they had not been able to obtain bras yet. Ursula had not mentioned how she herself had joined the company so Hanida naturally assumed that she had started the journey in Palarand and no-one cared to correct that impression.

Then the talk turned to ship dresses and the matching underthings and the implication was that they had been created in Joth, which was mostly correct. There followed a wide-ranging discussion on fashions and fabrics, with the travelers contributing what they had observed as they had ventured further upstream.

"Oh, that reminds me, Ursula. There are some other new garments stored here which I understand were your idea."

"Other garments? Here? Oh, do you mean the scrubs? Has anybody looked at them yet?"

"Of course, Ursula! A curious name but they are most practical for some of the heavier work any Healer must needs do. The trousers were strange to wear at first, but they do keep the mess from one's legs. Your design of the Clinic and its contents is very agreeable, Ursula. I assume that these ideas are what are familiar to you in your own lands?"

"In a way, Hanida, but there is a lot of variation in the equipment and clothing available there. I can describe what I was brought up with when we have some free time."

"As you say, Ursula."

Both Ursula and Bennet wanted a change after bathing so they selected other items from their traveler's chests, giving them the opportunity to wash and hang up what they had taken off. Ursula found a thinnish day dress and Bennet wore the one that had been picked up in the Terban market.

Then it was time for their meal. They all sat in the front chamber with plates on their laps, eating bread that was still hot and meats, cheeses, fruit and the inevitable mugs of pel.

"Mistress Bennet, you make a good loaf of bread, I deem. This is delicious!"

"Thank you, Mistress Hanida. I have had plenty of practice, as I said earlier, but with a different oven I was not sure of the results. I am pleased that it has come out acceptable to you."

"I must ask if you would consider preparing some of our other meals while you are with us. We do cook for ourselves, of course, and share the chores, but a fresh face who has experience elsewhere may help to improve our diets, which as you may realize will become tedious as the Rains continue."

Bennet was reluctant. "Mistress, I will of course help where I can but I was not a cook in the palace, merely a strong helper in the kitchens. I do have some ability, it is true, but I would suggest that Director Ursula has as much experience as I do."

Hanida turned, surprised. "Ursula?"

Thank you, Bennet, but I suppose there are few of us here and we'll all need to tackle whatever jobs need doing.

"Um, I have indeed some experience of working in kitchens and, when I was in Joth previously, I helped out Farren in the Mansion. But my experience is probably no better than that of Bennet, Hanida. I peeled vegetables, jointed meat and made pastries, that is all. Still, If I can help I will - assuming of course that our patients let us."

"Ah. As you say. At least it will share the work around a little."

"You did mention you had other patients here."

"As you say. Mistress Larna slipped and fell down the stairs at home, causing bruising to her back and spine and, we think, breaking one or more of the small bones in her ankle. It has been set in a cast but," she shook her head, "we do not think she will regain full mobility of that foot. I am told that you have different experience, is it possible that you can find out more?"

What can I do without X-rays? Probably not much more than the locals can.

I guess that I could open up the ankle and find out what might be broken, but then I'd probably need metal plates and screws to fix it. Can't do that because I'd need someone like a silversmith and advance knowledge of what I'd need him to make. And suitable tools. And with all that rain coming down outside... She'll just have to learn to limp.

She shook her head. "In the future there will be ways but there is nothing available to us here today. Sometimes it is possible to find a fracture by feel but it is probably too late for that. I'm sorry, Hanida."

Hanida nodded. "I did not expect to be able to do more, Ursula. Mistress Larna's husband Dibenar accompanies her, he has proved most useful as we made sure that our provisions were safely stored. Our other patient is Lord Beresan, he is the youngest son of Baron Vanderel, a noble whose demesne is to the west of the city. He presently resides here in the city and managed to injure his left calf this morning during weapons practise. He was brought here for immediate attention but the storm has arrived before he could be properly attended and returned home. The wound is not long but it is deep and diagonally across the muscle. He has a manservant, Mordon, with him who has also been of help in the Clinic. You may have seen the two men when we unloaded the wagon."

"Oh, yes, I did. A calf wound? He is going to be limping as well. I'll look at both, Hanida, but I cannot promise anything."

"I was not expecting anything, Ursula, since I did not know that you would be here during the worst of the Rains. But when you arrived I did wonder if you could do anything more for these people."

Ursula shrugged. "I did not know I would be here either! We had some diversions along our route which meant we lost days here and there. There was a time I thought we would be forced to stop in Hulmar or even in Ferenis. I think the storm hit us when we were about ten or twelve marks from here so we were very lucky to survive." She had a thought. "Those patients and their relatives, have they eaten yet? We're sitting here while they might be going hungry."

"I have reserved some of this excellent bread for them," Hanida replied, "but thought that you and those who came with you had more need of food than those who were already here, who have had little to do today except listen to the storm as it swallowed Joth." She put her mug down on the table. "By your leave, I shall take their share to them now. If you would wish to be introduced?"

Ursula added her mug and plate to the table. "It would be as well, considering we will all be here for some days to come."

Hanida stood so she followed, with a gesture to the others to remain where they were and to finish their meals without haste.

Ursula had noticed the other patients and attendants as she had moved around but her attention had been elsewhere. Now, as she followed Hanida into the gloomy center of the middle floor she put on her best Healer's face and directed her attention to the cubicles. The first one held a middle-aged woman who semi-reclined on her bed, her right foot in plaster, with her husband sitting beside her. He stood as the two approached.

"If I may introduce Mistress Ursula, a recent visitor to Joth, a Healer of some experience in other lands and the person who suggested to His Grace that we build this Clinic. Ursula, this is Mistress Larna and her husband Dibenar, who are presently as trapped in the Clinic for some few days as we are. Ursula, Mistress Larna suffered a fall down her stairs, on her back, after her foot turned on one of the steps. She has bruising down her back, which I do not consider to be serious, fortunately, but there is sufficient damage to her ankle that I judge something must needs be broken."

Ursula inclined her head to the two. "I could say that I was pleased to meet you but most meetings with healers are usually something people do not want to have. I just hope that your time here will not be too uncomfortable and that it will aid your recovery."

The man bowed. "Thank you, Mistress. I have seen you on occasion at the market, I would normally have my stall there but for now," he gestured towards the front, where the rain could be heard pounding against the front windows, "I may tend my wife instead. If I may ask, do you intend to remain in Joth now that you have returned? I have heard nothing but good words about you."

"I am a healer, Master Dibenar, and if I can help someone in need then I will do so. I will of course remain in Joth while the rain falls but I am, in fact, now part of a larger organization which will serve the whole of the Great Valley. Her Highness Princess Eriana leads that organization and so, when she leaves, it is likely that I will go with her. Is there some particular reason why you wanted me to stay in Joth?"

"Only the words I have heard about you, Mistress. A new organization? I have not heard of anything, but then I am only a trader in the market."

"Have you heard of the Sirrel Federation?"

Dibenar was cautious. "Aye, I have heard the name but know nothing about it. I assumed that it had something to do with the war against those of Yod. If you can explain?"

"I was not there when the Federation was formed but Her Highness was. She could tell you many details which I cannot. Briefly, all those countries which fought against Yod have come together in a loose association designed both to prevent further trouble from Yod and to ease trade and communications between each other. Each will continue as it did before but there will be a... Congress... I believe was the term, which will oversee all and guide future developments. Have you seen any of the things which came from Palarand just before we sailed away from Joth?"

He nodded. "Aye, there was something named an exhibition in the Great Hall. Ah! I believe I understand now. This Federation will help us as we begin to use these new inventions?"

"That is part of it, yes. There may be other benefits as well. One of those is that I will try to make my... healing... knowledge available to as many healers up and down the Great Valley as possible."

Dibenar nodded sagely. "I understand now, Mistress. I know that my wife and others will remain in good hands, either yours or that of your fellow healers."

"Thank you, Master. Is there anything you or your wife need at the moment?"

"Only something to eat and drink, by your leave."

Hanida said, "I will fetch food for you both now, if Ursula will stay here until I return."

"Of course, Hanida."

The healer bustled off to fill two plates and two mugs.

Ursula asked the wife, "Can I ask you how your fall happened, Mistress?"

She looked apologetic. "It was a silly thing, Mistress, you see, at the top of our stairs... I cannot explain. Dib, if you would tell the Mistress how our stairs is arranged."

"Ah, of course, dear. Mistress, our stairs is not straight but turns at the top so that the top three steps are but triangles. If one should chance to put a foot on the narrow end it is possible to slip and lose your step. I believe that is what my wife did."

Ursula nodded. "I know what you mean, Master. I have stayed in houses with similar arrangements. An unfortunate accident, then."

She added, "I was carrying linen at the time so did not see where my foot was placed. I doubt I shall make that mistake again!"

"Yes. Sometimes one can get away with doing that but other times the result is pain and, in your case, a possible permanent injury. Very well. Has Hanida said when she will likely change your cast? I would like to examine your foot then to see how much permanent damage might have been caused."

The husband said, "She has not said, Mistress, but from experience it will be two days, perhaps, maybe three."

Ursula nodded. "I will have a look when the cast is removed."

After a short while Hanida returned with a tray bearing the food and drink, which she held in front of the husband.

"By your leave, Master Dibenar, if you would remove a plate and mug for yourself and put them on the nightstand, your wife may sit up and eat from the tray."

With the two feeding themselves Hanida excused them and they moved on. The next cubicle was empty but the third held a youngish man, lying on the bed, with what was obviously an older manservant in the chair beside him. When the young man saw Ursula he gave her a disarming smile.

"Greetings, Mistress. I have listened to your words spoken earlier on either side. I am Lord Beresan, the youngest son of Baron Vanderel and unlikely to inherit anything." He gestured to the servant. "This is Mordon, one of my father's manservants, who I asked to accompany me here, seeing as I have damaged my leg and may not be able to walk far."

Hanida responded sharply, "My Lord, you should not be walking at all! If your over-sensitive ears did not catch her name I will tell you that this is Ursula, a reputable healer recently arrived in the Great Valley. Ursula, he came this morning and we have been so busy preparing for the Rains that I have been able to do nothing for him but clean the wound and wrap it for later examination. My Lord, I see no blood upon your bandage, have you any discomfort that I should know about?"

"Indeed yes, Mistress! There is a insistent stinging sensation around the wound, which I have just been able to avoid scratching, for fear of any further damage I might cause."

"Stinging?" Ursula and Hanida exchanged glances. "My Lord, you should have told us sooner... but mayhap I was below greeting these unexpected arrivals. Ursula, can I put you to work immediately? I deem his wound requires particular attention."

"Of course, Hanida. Oh, where is my basket? Tyra... Tyra is gone. I wonder where I left it?"

"Probably near Her Highness," Hanida suggested. "I'll fetch it."

Ursula went to the bed and began unwrapping the left leg, wishing that the light was better. The cut was only about six or seven centimeters long and right in the bulge of the calf. She cautiously ran her fingertips around the edges of the wound and felt crustiness.

"My Lord, it is difficult to see in this light but I suspect your wound has become infected, which is a concern if you only received it this morning." She considered. "Perhaps it would help if you could tell me exactly what happened."

He gave a slight chuckle. "It was not my fault this time, Mistress. My family residence is some four marks to the west of the city but presently I am staying with a friend of my father's, Baron Chanar, here in the city. Have you ever seen a melee, where the opposing teams mix and fight as in a tavern brawl?"

"Yes, I have, at the Mansion. I have also tended the various wounds, sprains and bruises afterwards."

"Ah, then you will know what confusion there can be. Well, I was fighting sword-to-sword with one of the Baron's men and must needs step back to avoid a thrust. What I did not reckon was that two more faced each other behind me, one with a spear, and the point was knocked downwards by his opponent at that very moment. I stepped back right into the point."

"Ow. You were indeed unlucky, My Lord. If you could -"

Hanida returned with Ursula's basket and satchel. "Here you are, Ursula. Your opinion?"

"The wound has become infected. He only got it this morning, so I was asking him just what happened."

"Infected? How? Oh, let me find a better light."

She walked off again to look for a lantern.

"Mistress? You were about to ask something."

"Yes. Can you roll onto your right side, please. That will put the wound where we can get at it easier."

"As you wish, Mistress."

He had rolled and made himself comfortable before Hanida returned with an oil lamp, which threw a much better level of light. She bent down to inspect the wound.

"You are right, Ursula! Look, the edge is all inflamed."

Ursula said, "I'm wondering if that spear point was not properly clean before the bout began."

"Ah, a likely reason, I deem. If I may ask what you would suggest."

"Of course. We'll have to clean the wound thoroughly, which probably means we'll need to give our patient something to dull the pain while we do it. Then -"

There followed a technical discussion which proved to Hanida that the reports about Ursula's abilities were correct.

"But how do you propose to clean out inside the wound? It does not remain open by itself."

"In the satchel I have some special tools to help with such problems. Let me get them out and show you."

Ursula pulled out the tool roll and unwrapped it, laying it out on the bed behind Beresan. Hanida was impressed.

"These are clever, Ursula! Do you use tools like this where you came from?"

"Some. Most are intended for use when one has to do something... more involved... for a patient, like in that chamber upstairs."

Hanida took the point. "What shall you use for this patient, then?"

"The retractors. I have two for different size openings." She pulled the small set out and demonstrated. "But first we need some analgesics."

That word was translated, so Ursula did not have to explain further. She selected a bottle from her basket and offered it to Hanida.

"Extract of Pameris bark, good. My Lord, I must needs ask you to drink a small potion which will serve to lessen the pain while we attend your wound."

"Of course, Mistress. Do what you must."

With Beresan suitably numb and mentally floating somewhere else entirely the two women cleaned the wound, using the retractor and some of Ursula's remaining alcohol. Having flushed that away with drinkable water the wound was then closed and sewn together, Ursula being careful to avoid the thread going into the muscle. The calf was then wrapped fairly tightly to prevent the muscle mass tearing the stitching when he moved the leg.

As Ursula did the minimal amount of tidying required, Hanida went off and prepared food for Beresan and his servant. The young noble had partially revived when she returned, enough that the servant could help him eat and drink. By the time he had finished his meal he had also completely revived.

"Uh, my leg feels different, Mistress."

"It will do, My Lord," Ursula replied. "We had to clean out the infection and then I have stitched across the wound to help it grow back together. I regret that you will probably have a slight limp the rest of your life."

He nodded. "I anticipated some penalty for my lack of awareness." He tried to smile. "I am not expected to make my living as an armsman and a limp is no great barrier to any other calling."

She tried to get a sense of somebody whom she would be stuck with for a week or so.

He's reasonably fit, or he was until he stepped backwards this morning, and it sounds as if he has a reasonable brain between those ears. He's about my age or so, but why is he in the city instead of elsewhere with his family?

"Can I ask why you are here in Joth instead of with your own people?" She offered him a smile. "I am a stranger around here and I have little knowledge of the way noble families like yours might work. I would have thought that you'd be at home with them, preparing for these Rains."

He smiled back. "It is no mystery, Mistress. I am the third son and both my older brothers are married with children, so there is little chance that I will inherit my father's title. Aye, there is work to do around the Manor House to prepare for the coming floods but with two large families already there Father thought it better that I should go to a friend of his here in the city to help them instead.

He spread his arms. "I was not needed, Mistress. Old Baron Chanar has two grown sons of his own and their mansion in the city is, uh, compact, shall we say. But he will still accommodate me with his folk during the Rains and I might find some use with the city parties as they make sure that all have enough food, drink and fuel to survive until the waters recede. This morning I was spending some time keeping active with his men when I was stuck from behind."

"Oh. Thank you, My Lord. I have never experienced the Rains before so I do not know how matters are arranged, here in the city or elsewhere."

He was surprised. "You do not know the Rains? Oh, Mistress Hanida said you had recently arrived in the Valley. You were spared all this water, then."

"Almost, My Lord. Instead we had to deal with a strides' worth of snow and temperatures so low the river sometimes froze."

"Maker! How much snow?"

"Waist deep, My Lord. But we were used to it and, like yourselves here, knew how to deal with the consequences."

He frowned. "So... you are from the deep south, then."

How much do I tell him? He looks to have a functioning brain so might be able to infer more from anything I say. Best to follow Maralin's advice and keep the story simple, then.

"I do not really know, My Lord. I come from a distant land where such weather is common in the winter time." True enough. "However, I became ill at some point in my journey and that has caused me to lose certain parts of my memory. In fact, when I was found here, on a bank along the Sirrel, I had lost all of my memory and only regained some of it after a week or so. That being so, I could not tell you where I came from or how far away it is."

He was surprised. "I am amazed, Mistress! Yet here you are, with enough of your wits about you to design such a building as this," he waved a hand about, "and speaking the Valley tongue as though born here."

"My Lord, I have always found it easy to learn languages. I presently speak eight... or is it more now? I have learned much that is new during our voyage as far as Bibek and back."

"Do you tell me? Mistress, you become more interesting by the moment."

He seems easy to speak with. I must be careful here that I do not become too close. He is a patient, after all.

"Thank you for your interest, My Lord. Now, by your leave, we have another patient to examine. Do you require anything else before we move on?"

"I should not keep you from your duties, Mistresses. When do you consider I might be able to leave this bed?"

Hanida replied, "My Lord, you should not put any weight at all on that leg for several days. Should you require the toilet or the bathroom then there are sufficient folk here to help you to those places. Perhaps tomorrow you may join us in the Common Room at the front of this floor, though I regret the view is presently only of falling water."

He grinned. "Thank you, Mistress Hanida. Until tomorrow, then."

But he watched Ursula as the two moved away.

The two healers passed by another empty cubicle. Ursula supposed that it was to permit the few patients they had taken so far to have a little more privacy than would be possible with all six in use.

"Common Room?"

"Aye, Ursula, we thought long for a suitable name and decided that would be the most suitable." Hanida looked at her uncertainly. "Have we chosen wrong? Did you have another name for that chamber?"

"Oh, no, Hanida! I am not sure I considered a name at all. Common Room is fine, it describes the use exactly."

In the fifth cubicle Eriana was looked sleepily at Matta, Vellana and Ketko, all of whom must have passed Ursula and Hanida probably while they were dealing with Beresan. She turned when the two came into view, dark rings around her eyes and still looking exhausted.

"Oh, Ursula. Thank the Gods you are here. I feel terrible. What happened? Did the ship survive? What of our men?"

"The Visund is fine, Highness, and so are all your men. Do you know where we are?"

Eriana was uncertain. "I do not, Ursula. We are in some kind of strange building, I deem. Are we in Yod? What is that noise?"

"We have managed to arrive at Joth, just as the Rains began. The noise you can hear is the rain on the roof and you will be hearing it for maybe eight or nine weeks more. All your men have been found billets with the fisherfolk of Foti Lane and are tired but well."

"Tired! I am so tired, Ursula. I do not think I can do what is asked of me any longer."

"You have been overworked, Highness and it has caused you too much stress. Because of the Rains nothing much can be done until after it finishes so there will be plenty of time for you to recover and get back to your normal self."

"I do not think that is possible," she replied. "It is all gone, I have nothing left that anyone would want of me."

Not good. She has depression and I do not know what to do. I repair bodies, I cannot deal with mental disturbance of this nature. At least we'll have some time to discover remedy, or someone who can provide one.