As the Rains ominously approach the Visunders make a last desperate dash for safety to their friends in Joth. Their path includes navigating the Cauldron, a fearsome eddy below the fortress of Boldan's Rock. Unfortunately, the low river levels have made the passage even more dangerous and the stress causes unexpected problems.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

103 - Maelstrom

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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Still feeling the effects of the fight two nights previously, the five women dressed and packed their chests ready for collection.

"Eriana, you don't look as though you had a good night's sleep," Ursula told her as they folded and stored. "I know we had an interruption but you should be young enough to cope with something like that. Is there something else worrying you?"

"Everything, Ursula," the Princess replied with a sigh. "Instead of sleeping my mind went around and around with all that must happen today. I feel like I am being pushed into a corner with no choices to make. I am not in control of my own life any more."

"Welcome to the world of adults, Eriana. We all face the same limitations but everyone does even if most do not realize it. You need to make an adjustment to your thinking so that you understand that what you are experiencing is actually normal."

Her reply was short. "Normal! If you say so."

"Is there anything particular that concerns you?"

The Princess showed her teeth in a grimace. "We may not remain here because of Denethar. I could deal with him were it not for Gathol. Should we depart, as we must, then we will likely face the full force of these Rains, a thought which terrifies me. It is my decision to stay or go, yet if we go we may all die in the storm and it will be my fault. It is a decision I must needs make but one I do not desire to."

"The Rains have not begun yet," Ursula pointed out, "and the awning should be enough to keep us safe until we reach Joth, we have already tested it against two storms. My feeling is that it will and we will arrive there later today wet but safe."

"If we may depart cleanly without interference," Eriana mused, "we should have an entire day to reach Joth and it is not so far. I cannot see that even a storm or two would deny us our destination."

"You would think so," cautioned Ursula, "but, in my experience, it is always factors you did not think of that can cause trouble. For instance -"

She paused. Telling Eriana about a problem caused by an aircraft being diverted to another airport and delaying her own departure would take half the morning to explain and nobody would understand most of it.

"Never mind," she said instead. "My own experiences will not help us here. Just be ready for the unexpected, that is all."

"As you say."

Ursula had a thought. "As a matter of interest, what are we going to do about lunch? Stopping almost anywhere today is going to be awkward."

"Indeed, Ursula. I believe that Adin is obtaining such supplies that we may eat and drink as we drift downstream with the current, as we did the other day. We have done so before, the food will be plain but it will only be for one day."

Ursula nodded. "That's good. That gives us options if nothing else."

"As you say. If you have finished packing, mayhap we should go and break our fast."

A little later, just as they were finishing their breakfast, a wagon pulled by four frayen entered the courtyard accompanied by a number of the crew.

"Ah! Good, they have come to collect our chests. Ladies, let us go upstairs and clear our chambers."

With all those who were from the Visund gathered downstairs in the porch, the way was cleared for manservants from the hostel to go and bring their chests downstairs, from where the Visund's crewmen could place them in the wagon. Ursula watched this with a frown.

"They are using frayen to pull the wagon," she muttered. "What happened to all the dranakhs?"

The hostel proprietor was there, observing, and overheard.

"By your leave, Mistress, when the Rains come all the dranakhs are released by their owners and left to fend for themselves while the Rains yet come. Did you not know this?"

"I did not, goodman. I am - most of us are - strangers to the Great Valley. Why? What do the dranakhs do? Is there some special reason?"

The proprietor spread his hands. "While it yet rains, Mistress, neither dranakh nor frayen can do much work, although at extreme need frayen may travel short distances in the downpour. The problem is feeding them, mainly. For frayen you may know we have compressed feed blocks, have you seen them? Aye? And we must needs keep our beasts sheltered inside with the rest of us.

"Dranakhs are of such a size that they must needs eat so much food every day. It is difficult for all but the richest noble to store enough food to feed all his dranakhs for so long as the Rains, and we cannot compress what they eat either. However, we have learned that dranakhs can forage in the fields even during the worst weather, so by custom their owners release them to find food where they will. It is said that they can even forage for food under water, so some farmers deliberately leave certain crops in the fields for any of the great beasts who may pass by."

That makes a kind of sense. Hippos can do that as well, so I understand. And, of course, wherever they roam they will always return to their owners when the Rains finally cease.

"Ah, thank you. That does make sense. I wondered why I hadn't seen any dranakhs for a while."

"As you say, Mistress. Are you traveling far today? From the change in the air I have no doubt that by tonight the Rains will be fully upon us."

"Her Highness intends to reach Joth. We have friends there. We think the journey will be straightforward."

"It should be, Mistress. I doubt you will find anyone else on the river today."

* * *

When the party arrived at the Visund the men from two of the other hostels were already there and they soon helped load all the baggage and secure it. As the wagon was taken away the men who had been in the third and fourth hostels arrived and soon there was a bustle of activity as the ship was made ready to depart. Eriana climbed the length of the ship checking that everyone and everything was ready and having a word with all as she passed.

"Matta, Vellana. You have survived visits to several hostels now, I deem. How comfortable do you feel amongst other men and women?"

"Highness," Matta replied, "it was hard at first but we came to understand that most people just wanted to go about their own business and had little interest in us. We have also visited more cities than we ever knew existed and discovered that the world is a different place than we imagined. We are still cautious around men, especially those who take an interest in us, but we have learned that usually we can deflect without causing offense."

"That is good," Eriana said with a nod. "I know it will still take time for you to adapt to your new circumstances but you both have the right attitude, I deem."

Vellana asked, "Highness, is there some special reason you ask us now? We have heard talk of Joth but know not what it is."

"Just as the cities you have visited have all been different so is the city of Joth. It is all made of brick and wood and completely surrounded by a high wall, which regrettably did little when those of Yod came to call. I ask because, as you are now my personal maids, you will likely be asked to reside with me in the mansion of His Grace Duke Wallesan. When we were there before we were his guests and his home is different than anywhere you will have stayed before. Be prepared for somewhere different but also be prepared to reside amongst friends."

"Ah. Thank you for telling us, Highness."

A little further on she found Kaldar who was eating a zurin roll and holding a beaker of fruit juice.

"Good morning, Kaldar. Did you have a peaceful night?"

"Good morning, Your Highness. I slept well though there were some interruptions."

"Oh?"

"The men said that some others came in the night but were made to go away once they discovered a guard had been set on the ship. There was an argument and the port Watch was called." He grinned. "I learned a few new words, Highness, though I won't use them in front of you or the other women."

Eriana smiled. "As you say. I would ask among the men quietly so that you know exactly what those new words mean, do you understand? It is possible to make mistakes when cursing someone, especially if you do not know them well."

"So the men have told me, Highness. I much prefer the Norse swearwords the men have been teaching me."

"What! Oh, it is only natural, I suppose. Will you be ready to help us as we make this last journey to Joth?"

"Of course, Highness. Between your men and Tyra I have learned much since I jumped aboard."

"And I am impressed that you have done so, Kaldar. It shows how right we were to accept you when you sought sanctuary with us."

"Thank you, Highness."

At the stern she found Hashim and Tor poring over the charts Hashim had obtained in the port office.

"Highness, these charts, while the latest available, do not show everything we might need to know as we travel downriver," Hashim began. "It seems that some strange things happen when the water level is so low, but since few care to travel in these times the information is scanty."

"Ah? Anything that should concern us, do you know?"

"The information about the Cauldron is... confused, Highness. It is said that it is passable, at least in the direction we are going, but it is also said that because the water level is so low the Cauldron may look different than when you passed on the way upstream."

"Yet we may pass downstream."

"So it is said, Highness." Hashim paused. "The water level is the lowest I can recall and many shoals are visible which have never been seen before." He looked her in the eye. "When we reach the Cauldron it may be necessary for quick decisions to be made, Highness."

"I understand, Hashim. Good work. I'll return to the bow ready to make those decisions. Tor? By your leave, I am going to ask for that extra awning over the foaksul to be rolled back so that the lookouts can see properly. It only occurred to me last night. From the stern deck, and without the mast in the way, you can see a man standing on the foaksul clearly, can you not? And if a storm comes the awning can be put back quickly enough."

Tor looked surprised. «True, Highness. Standing up there he can signal left or right by just stretching out an arm.»

Eriana frowned. «I had not thought about signals yet, Tor, but you are right.»

A simple set of arm signals was discussed.

«I'll go and tell the lookouts what we have decided,» she ended the conversation. «When can we depart?»

«Just as soon as I can stop gossiping, get up on the stern deck and issue casting off instructions, Admiral.»

She grinned at Tor. «I can take a hint, Captain. Go attend to your ship.»

As Eriana laboriously made her way forward Tor began the business of leaving port. With Stine on the drum again the Visund was pushed off the foreshore and turned, heading for the river. Soon they were back in a familiar routine. The longship headed north-west, downstream, aimed at the north Wall, from where they would turn north-east to pass between Forguland and Gylfi's Rest and then turn again below the brooding granite mass that bore the fortress of Boldan's Rock.

For this leg one of the forward lookouts was sitting on the foaksul with his legs dangling over the right-hand side of the bow while the other lookout was standing centrally behind him, braced against the post which held the end of the redeployed mast. Both had safety lines attached, secured to the post. Behind them, on the first few benches, sat Eriana, Ursula, Tyra, Bennet and also Porthan Swiftrider, whom Eriana was questioning about his knowledge of the river.

"I do not know this stretch at all, Director," the latter told Eriana. "Almost all my service has been in Yodan waters or upstream of Yod. Before the, ah, recent conflict our duties were mainly in keeping the river free for all traffic and countering interference from the galleys of Pakmal, who were generally obstructive to any vessel not bearing their own colors."

She nodded. "Aye. That has been our own experience as well. There are good men in Pakmal, it is true, but they are a minority among their fellows, it seems. But we discuss the waters this side of Yod. You have never traveled this far at all? Not even before you joined the military?"

"Director, I joined the water forces as soon as I finished my studies, I had a brief time at home and then I immediately began officer training. I will add that even by road I have never departed from Yodan lands, it was discouraged." Porthan's eyes flicked up at the distant wall of rock, now looming larger. "Ah, Director, where does the river go? We head directly for the cliff!"

"Ah. Below Yod, it seems, the river wanders completely from one side of the Valley to the other, making sharp turns when it approaches the walls closely. I am told that eventually the river can cut through where each land is attached to one side or other, making it first an island and then attaching it to the other side."

Porthan was startled. "Do you tell me? I have not heard of that happening!"

Eriana waved a hand. "The process may take many tens or even hundreds of years to happen so you might not be told of it in Yod. I have seen that above Yod the river's course is less extreme in some ways. It has happened to Palarand and that was many centuries ago."

Ursula added, "Captain Hashim was going to find me a map of the lower Valley but I have not seen it yet, he is too busy. Remind me later and we can have a look at it together, you will see what the Director is saying."

Eventually the Visund made the turn and headed, as it seemed, directly towards the Rock. Ursula was looking forward as they turned and she saw, above the usual skyline ahead, a curious thin darkened line which ran across the Great Valley and extended either side.

Strange. I do not remember seeing anything like that before. Some kind of atmospheric effect? If so, what of?

She looked straight up to see a mixture of dark rain clouds laden with water and bright sunshine.

You can get some odd effects in the distant air, I remember. Some kind of inversion layer? I was not very interested in meteorology.

Eriana joined Ursula to stand just behind the foaksul and gazed at the right side of the river. She appeared uncharacteristically unsure of herself and spoke quietly.

"Am I right to gamble our lives this way, Ursula? Should we not have accepted what others have said and taken shelter in one of the ports we have already passed? I like not the smell the air has now, surely we have left it too late?"

Ursula considered her answer. "Eriana, you have made your decision based on the facts that you know and I have no argument with that. If we make it to Joth, then good, but if we do not, then we are in the lap of the Gods, as you would say. I have trust in the Visund and the abilities of our crew to do their best should anything unfortunate happen. Personally, if I had been making the decision I might have chosen to stop earlier, but then I do not have your problem with Denethar." She gestured ahead. "This way may be the best way of all."

The Princess grimaced. "I still have this feeling -" She pointed to the rising ground becoming more pronounced on their right. "Should we try to land at Forguland? I know Hashim said that the docks were not approachable, but maybe we can -"

"If we cannot get the Visund out of the water and onto high ground, Eriana, then we are likely to lose it - permanently. Remember, the waters may reach as high as the uppermost levels of the Forguland docks by the end of the Rains. And if we hauled up on the mud we would be unable to unload everything in time. Landing nearby might save our lives but we could lose everything else."

"It is as you say, though I am reluctant to agree. Very well, we must accept whatever the Gods throw at us."

Eriana is deteriorating! I have never seen her like this before. Is this depression? Is she still safe to command, especially when our actions could be forced upon us? I have not the medical knowledge to handle this!

It may have been a trick of the light but the thin dark band across the north-east somehow looked a little larger. And were there flickers of lightning visible near the top edge?

Soon the mud flats which had been exposed by the low water levels became visible, showing that Forguland was indeed cut off for a time from the Sirrel. The dock area appeared, high and dry, all of the levels having been completely stripped of small craft, huts, derricks, flagpoles and anything else removeable, indicating that the locals expected the levels to be swept clean by the flood.

By now a growing noise could be heard, its source as yet undefined. On the left, they passed the wharfage of Gylfi's Rest, equally stripped, while on the right the low-lying island looked much wider than they had previously observed.

Porthan asked from behind them, "Director, what is that noise?"

"Oh, that must be the sound of the Cauldron," Eriana replied, "a fearsome eddy which lies just below Boldan's Rock. It is thought that the rock deflects the river and causes it to swirl. It looks dangerous but only if you do not know the region and approach it too close."

"The Cauldron? I have heard of it, Director, but of course I have never seen it."

"Director!" The call came from a lookout, the voice alarmed. "You must see this!"

Eriana leaned forward, resting her hands on the raised deck. The sitting lookout was now scrambling to his feet. Her face went as white as a sheet.

"Mother of the Gods, save us!"

- - -

On the stern deck Tor and Hashim were making similar remarks, each in his own native tongue. Ahead and to their right, the river turned and poured over what seemed like a broken weir with a thunderous sound, spray initially masking what lay beyond.

"Maker, I have never..! Tor, what do we do?"

"What is this? A waterfall? How?"

Perhaps hundreds of thousands of years previously a tall stack of the granite which composed Boldan's Rock had tumbled, falling right across the course of the Sirrel. The stack had shattered on the way down, causing a series of obstructions in the river bed. Over time the upstream side had been filled with deposits while the downstream side had been scoured away by the changed water flow. Normally concealed by the depth of water, only at the very lowest water level could this hidden feature become noticeable - and at a time when nobody would be on the river to notice and record it.

"It was not here when we came upriver," Hashim said. "I have never seen this before."

"We did not come this way," Tor said. "Came through docks."

"Maker, yes! Everybody goes that way, do they not? What exactly is all that?"

From this side the edge of the water surface was mostly smooth, just like a weir, but there were raised areas where the current forced its way through gaps in the obstructions. Just beyond, visible as the Visund came closer, was the Cauldron.

Tor pointed. "There. Those. Find largest one to go through."

This situation was entirely outside Hashim's experience. "Largest one? Why?"

Tor's finger lowered to the awning halfway along. "Ship widest there. Rocks either side, need room."

They both peered at the approaching hazard, their view partially obscured by the spray.

"There! It has to be the one right at the end, doesn't it?"

"Yah. We use that one. Safest. Need to avoid maelstrom."

"Maelstrom?"

Tor could not remember the local name in such circumstances. He described a horizontal circle with his finger. "In river. Like big pot."

"Oh, Maker, the Cauldron! We have to avoid that as well! Need a hand on that oar?"

"Yah."

- - -

Most of the crew had turned by now, alerted by the noise, and were watching the scene with horror. Ursula's question was directed to the lookouts.

«Can you see Tor and Hashim? What are they doing?»

One of the lookouts turned and waved, then ducked his head to reply to Ursula. «They wave back, Director. Know what they are doing.»

Eriana overheard and turned, frantic. "No! We cannot! The ship will be lost and we will all die!"

She turned and swiftly began climbing over the benches to make her way aft but the low roof of the awning made her passage difficult. She stumbled over the end of an oar.

Ursula looked at the river, then at the lookouts. «Hang on to something!» Turning, she shouted to the others, "Stop her! She'll kill us all!"

Bennet just managed to grab her trailing foot and Eriana tumbled. Tyra climbed back and tried to calm the struggling Princess but she fought them both off.

«Let me go! Let me go!»

Ursula arrived and added her weight to the others. «No, Eriana. Let the men do their jobs.»

The men immediately beyond turned and stared at the mass of women, uncertain what to do as their liege was apparently attacked.

Ursula looked up at them. «Do you trust me?» she panted.

There was a hesitation before the nearest answered, «Yah, Mistress. What is happening?»

She glanced at the weir, now only ten strides away. «No time. Trust Tor and Hashim. Hang on! This could be rough.»

Eriana tried to remove Ursula's hands. «Let! Me! Go!»

«Eriana, you are not safe, I cannot release you, not when the situation is so dangerous.»

The Visund tilted forward, cargo straining against ropes and loose items rattling below the seats. Eriana gripped Ursula's arms and closed her eyes tightly, tears streaming down both sides of her face. For a long moment the ship remained tilted and then it slid down perhaps two strides to the level on the downstream side of the weir. There was a shower of spray as the bow dug in and an ominous crack before everything righted again.

- - -

"Two maelstroms?"

"Maker! Tor, we have to go right down the middle between the two or we are dead either way."

"Yah."

On their right the Cauldron circled lazily like water going down a drain, the bottom still being out of sight despite the low level of the river. On their left was another whirlpool, circling the other direction, doubtless caused by that same low water level. A jumble of rocks showed at the bottom of that one, at least five strides below their own level. The two eddies were divided by a ridge of water upon which the Visund was precariously perched.

"At least the bow came up," Hashim muttered as the two fought to keep the steering steady, "I was afraid we would plow straight in."

"Yah. Heard something break though. Which way to go after?"

Hashim did a quick review of their options. "Left, I think, Tor, which means going around that thing. Can you see if there is enough water that side?"

Tor risked a glance to his left side. "Enough water for Visund, I think. Tell Princess?"

"Yes, but I don't think we have any choice which way to go. Look at that sky!"

"Thor's balls! Look, boy is down there, he can go."

- - -

A thin stream of water started coming up from between the first two seats and the two nearest crewmen squirmed past the mass of women to investigate the leak and begin bailing. Eriana's grip slackened but she still held on to Ursula. By now she was weeping uncontrollably.

Kaldar scrambled through from aft. "Mistress, Captain Hashim says - " He caught sight of the tableau. "What happened?"

"She is unwell," Ursula replied. This could be difficult to explain. "The stress is too much for her. Do you know where my basket is?" Kaldar looked at Tyra but Ursula shook her head. "We cannot leave her, she is too strong. I need something to calm her."

"I think your basket is back near Karan, Mistress. Shall I bring it?"

"Yes, please, and a bottle of water from Adin. I'll need to give her something to drink."

"Immediately, Mistress." Kaldar vanished.

- - -

Hashim briefly looked at Tor, then back at the water either side. The situation was too strange for him to take his eyes off it for any length of time. The water surface sloped away both sides, one leading to the depths of the Cauldron and the other down to the jagged rocks at the bottom of the Cauldron's evil twin sister. The Visund rode the ridge between two certain disasters - and had to be kept there. All too soon the decision had to be made and Tor carefully nudged the ship to the left, with the inevitable result.

- - -

The Visund lurched, this time with a tilt to the left.

Bennet asked, "Why are we tilting, Mistress? Are we sinking?"

We are tilted to the left, but the Cauldron goes clockwise, so we ought to be tilted the other way if we were caught by it. So what..?

Ursula raised slightly so that she could see over the left side. "Another one?"

Bennet risked a look. "Maker! Mistress, this cannot be good."

"But Kaldar came to give us a message. The captains must have seen this from the stern deck and are doing something about it."

"I hope you are right, Mistress."

"So do I, Bennet."

Eriana was now limp and sobbing quietly. Her grip was now slight enough that Ursula could free herself and sit more comfortably on the nearest seat. With Bennet's help she carefully raised an unresisting Eriana and laid her across two seats, the hull not being wide enough yet for her to be laid lengthways along one. One of the men who was not bailing arrived with dunnage bags to pack the gap between the seats.

Ursula sat up and looked out at the heart-stopping sight. The ship was going around the rim of a slightly smaller version of the Cauldron, but this one went counter-clockwise. Already they had managed a quarter of the circuit and she hoped the men steering would be strong enough to lift them off when they got round far enough.

We could have just gone straight ahead between these two eddies but that would have meant taking the long way around Joth to get to the city. This way is going to be quicker and - look at that sky! - maybe we can get far enough downstream before that hits us. I am glad that Tor and Hashim were level-headed enough to attempt this.

The sky had definitely become worse. What had been a thin line of darkness against the horizon had become a threatening black mass kilometers high which was rolling steadily up-valley, consuming everything in its path. The upper parts of the leading edge roiled with massive arcs of lightning - she could think of no other words to describe what she saw. Occasionally, some of those stabbed down at the ground below.

Now that is the Rains, no doubt about it! She tried to estimate distance and rate of advance. We might get as far as the home stretch before that lot hits us.

It abruptly dawned on her what she was looking at - and what was about to happen.

I have to take command, there is no choice. Eriana is not fit to command and would not be able to handle what is about to hit us. I am the logical second.

Before she could even open her mouth Karan climbed forward, carrying the basket, followed by Semma with a water bottle and a beaker.

"Kaldar told us," he told her, looking nervously outside. "I told him to go sit with Hashim's family and rig a safety line."

"Good idea, Karan. Thank you."

She took the basket and pulled the canvas lid open. Semma sat down beside her.

"Mistress, what happened to her?"

The Visund suddenly righted and headed straight for the cliffs beside the Rock.

"Difficult to know," Ursula replied, pulling out a small bottle, "a kind of mental breakdown, I think. She has had too many things to deal with, too much pressure and it was too much stress for her." She waved a hand outside. "Then that had to happen."

The younger guardswoman frowned. "Mental breakdown? A disease of the mind, you mean?"

"Something like that. Maybe we can talk about it whenever we get to Joth?"

"As you wish, Mistress. Uh, maybe it is a bad Call this time? I know some women can go crazy when their Call comes, if it is a bad one."

Ursula realized what Semma was suggesting and nodded. "It is possible. I do not know what day her... Calls... are supposed to come. Right. Can you fill that beaker about half with water, please?"

Karan did the pouring. When there was enough in the beaker Ursula estimated a dose and tipped a small amount of her bottle's contents in as well. She gave the potion bottle to Semma in exchange for the beaker.

"Can you put the stopper in it, please, while I try to get some of this into Eriana." She looked up. "Karan, give that water to Tyra, please. Karan, Bennet, I want you each to go down one side of the ship and tell everybody, Orders from Director Ursula. Everyone is to put on all their wet-weather clothing immediately. When you get to the stern tell the two captains as well - oh, and I want whoever goes on the stern deck to have a safety line rigged."

Karan nodded. "As you command, Director."

Bennet added, "I can see the need for it, Director."

The two disappeared aft, separating when they reached the line of cargo along the center, telling the crew as they passed.

"Semma, I have to get some of this into Her Highness." Around them the view wheeled as the Visund turned from north-west to north-east. "Can you help?"

"Surely, Director. If I lift her this side -"

They managed to prop Eriana half up, enough to enable her to drink.

"Eriana? I have something to help you here."

"It is too late," the Princess mumbled, exhausted. "We are all going to die."

"Well, maybe this will help you die peacefully." Ursula looked up and gave Semma a significant look.

She managed to get most of the contents into her patient, who then relaxed back and closed her eyes.

Semma asked low, "What did you give her, Director?"

"Just something to relax her and let her sleep," Ursula replied. "It shouldn't hurt her but we'll probably have to carry her out of the ship when we get to Joth."

Semma's eyes flicked briefly up at the oncoming storm. "Do you think we can still get there, Director?"

"This is the Visund. It withstood four storms out at sea bringing Her Highness and her men to Palarand, so I understand. I think we have a better chance than many of those river barges would."

Semma took a harder look at the storm front. "I believe you are right, Director. Maker! I have grown up living with the Rains every year and I have never seen it like that!"

Ursula turned around and climbed back towards the foaksul. «You two, get that awning back up and make certain it is secure, then come down one by one and get your wet weather gear on. It's going to get rough.»

"Yah, Director."

They had to move Eriana a little further aft to make room for the lookouts to come down and change while others carried on bailing from around the sprung boards. A pair of oars was shipped and those two men moved aft which meant that the Princess could, just, be laid flat across the width of the Visund. All around the crew and passengers were finding room to struggle into the standard wet weather outfits which were, fortunately, fairly easy to put on in the limited space.

Ursula decided that this was probably the best moment to ask for food and water to be served out, before the line of the storm front reached them. Soon everyone was munching on rolls and drinking water, not knowing when - or even if - their next meal would arrive. The storm would make everyone's activities much more difficult.

The Visund arrived at the end of the north-east reach and turned south-east, the last major course correction before arriving at Joth. Ursula knew that the Sirrel made several kinks and curves before then but hoped that staying in the main current would keep them out of trouble.

With the change of direction and the bow awning now set up again the view outside became restricted. No-one could now see the storm front approaching which may have been a good thing in the circumstances. What Ursula had not expected as they followed the current past the ferry port of Thorn was the sound, a roaring which sounded like a distant waterfall rapidly approaching.

If I am right that is a waterfall! Coming directly from the sky! However do these people survive in such extreme weather?

But she answered her own question.

Because it refreshes the land, that's why. The soil becomes so rich they can harvest two crops before the Rains and one afterwards. To grow such plenty, that frees them from many of the problems that other lands will have, they will risk much and reap the benefits.

With a tremendous BANG! that deafened everyone the storm hit the Visund. Everything outside the ship immediately disappeared, including the surface of the river. It was no longer possible to tell where the water ended and the atmosphere began. The rain pounded on the awning and poured off the sides in sheets. All sense of direction vanished.

With a word to Semma and Tyra to keep an eye on Eriana she climbed back forward, making her way past the two men bailing. Looking down she saw that, although water was coming in, the men appeared to be keeping pace with the flow. How long they could do that before tiring she did not know. She reached the foaksul and leaned forward to tug at the yellow wet weather gear of the nearest lookout.

He turned and said something but the noise was too great. She shook her head and he turned and leaned down. He tried again.

«Can see nothing, Director.»

«Didn't think you could. How are we going to know when we reach Joth?»

The look of alarm on his face told her that he had not considered that problem.

«We need to move over to that side of the river,» she shouted. «I'll go and talk to the captains. Keep looking out for shoals and debris in the water.»

And if they do spot anything, how are they going to tell anyone about it?

He nodded and turned back to speak to his companion. Ursula climbed back to where Semma sat beside Eriana.

The guardswoman shouted, "She sleeps, Director."

"Good. I don't think she can handle this. Look, I need to go back to the stern. Are you happy here just with Tyra? I'll send Bennet forward whenever I see her."

"As long as she stays asleep, Director. If she wakes and struggles -"

"Noted. I'll send help as soon as I can."

BOOM! Everybody flinched.

I am really, really glad we took the mast down!

"Director," Tyra shouted, "you, Semma and I are not wearing our wet weather gear."

If it isn't one thing...

"Where are our things?"

"I think they are somewhere closer to the stern."

"Right. Change of plan. You come with me to find our gear. When we reach Bennet she can bring Semma's gear back here with her."

The two clambered back along the ship, splitting when they reached the cargo to make sure that they did not pass Bennet going the other way before speaking to her. As it happened they found her near the stern pulling her own waterproofs on. The conversation had to be shouted.

"Director? Is Her Highness all right?"

"She is asleep which is probably best for her. Can you take Semma's wet weather gear forward and then keep watch over Eriana while she puts her gear on? I need to talk to the captains."

"Surely, Director."

"Do you know where ours are?"

"Here, Director." Bennet held up a dunnage bag. "I put yours, Tyra's and Semma's in here and was going to bring it forward once I had my own on."

Ursula gave her a smile. "Thank you, Bennet, good thinking. Let us have ours. I'll need mine to go right to the stern."

Bennet handed over their gear and then moved forward as the two helped each other wrap themselves in the waxed, yellow waterproofs. The hardest part was putting the boots on and making sure the tops were safely under the skirts of the 'pinafores'.

She asked Tyra, "Where is Karan? Have you seen him?"

"Yes, Director, he was with Aryam and the children."

"Good. Will you keep watch here while I speak to the captains?"

"One moment, Director."

Tyra moved forward and returned with a coil of thin line. She tied the end around Ursula's waist and then wrapped the rest around one of the rearmost seats.

"Safe now, Director."

At the stern deck Ursula found that someone had crudely nailed a short scrap of a plank, edge on, onto the edge of the stern deck, which meant that a prodigious volume of water gushed off both sides instead of filling the hull. Outside it was as if she glimpsed an unrecorded level of Hell. The volume of water descending was so great that the stern post, curling up behind the steering position, was almost out of vision. Two figures in waterproofs stood side by side, each with one hand on the steering oar. They noticed the yellow figure below, had some kind of conversation and then one carefully and awkwardly clambered down into the hull and under the edge of the awning, water streaming everywhere from his waterproofs.

"Director," Hashim shouted. "What happened?"

"Eriana had a mental breakdown," Ursula shouted back. "She is sleeping now. Look, soon we are going to reach Joth but how will we know? Can we edge over to that side of the river?"

He nodded. "We talked about that and are moving that way but carefully. The river is still low and we do not want to get stuck out here in this. There are supposed to be posts marking the entrance to the channel into Joth but if we will see them in this I could not say."

"We do not want to go past Joth! I doubt that even we could survive until the next available port."

"Agreed, Director. The next stop would likely be Smordan and it will be night by then as well - if darkness means much in this." He waved an arm at the downpour beyond the awning. The cloud layer was so thick that it could possibly be night already.

"Do your best. Could we anchor until this eases up? How long before that happens, do you know?"

Hashim grimaced. "That could be three days, it could be a week, Director. We have all too much water to drink but not enough food for that many days."

"Understood. Oh, what about that bucket thing? To keep us pointing in the right direction?"

"Tor sent it over the side the moment he saw the storm was coming, Director."

"Good. Keep looking. I'll stay down here for a while until we find Joth."

"As you say, Director. I'm going back up there, that steering oar is heavy."

Hashim laborously clambered back up and rejoined Tor with the oar.

This is impossible! It was madness to even consider sailing in this!

But we did not know... Now we do.

She tried to peer out from under the awning to see if there was anything visible which might indicate where they were but it was futile. Above them the lightning flashed almost continuously, lighting up the area and in theory giving them a better view, but the amount of water coming down made 'better' a moot point. Occasionally the view did lift but there was nothing but disturbed water in sight.

There was a movement forward and she saw someone making their way aft to her, climbing carefully around the rowers, all of whom were presently doing nothing. As the figure got closer the face resolved into that of Toshi. He looked disturbed.

"Director, there is... a face... in the river, watching us. I did not think that river spirits were supposed to exist any more."

"A what?"

He turned and pointed. "Off to our right, ahead. Two red eyes, moving."

Ursula crouched down to try and see this phenomenon for herself but the awning was lower right at the rear of the ship.

"I'll come and look."

She followed him down almost to the middle and then looked out where he pointed. Two red eyes showed themselves through the downpour, each flickering, each below a dark eyebrow. The skin along her spine began to raise goosebumps.

That's... impossible! That can't be anything alive, not in this downpour - and I was told there are no spirits or other magical beings on Anmar.

So what is it? Is it some kind of artifact of the storm? Something struck by lightning, perhaps? Unlikely, not two similar structures close together like that.

Then they flickered again and she knew. She leant close to Toshi's ear.

"Beacons! They have lit beacons to guide us in! Prepare the crew to get ready to row us in through the channel between those two fires."

"Beacons, Director? In this rain?"

"Those eyebrows are roofs over the fires to keep the rain off. I must go or we'll miss the channel."

"Hai. I'll order the oars out ready."

She hurried all the way back to the stern and attracted the attention of the two on the deck. Tor came forward and leaned down.

«Over there! Between those two fires!»

«What?» He looked up. «Yah. Wondered what those were. Steer between?»

«Yes! Toshi is getting the rowers ready.»

He stood, turned and immediately began hauling on a line which went over the stern, pulling in the 'sea bucket' that had been used to keep them facing the right direction. Then he stood and, with Hashim, began to steer towards the beacons and safety. Ursula turned to Stine and told him to start sounding the beat, but wondered whether anyone would be able to hear it.

Somebody further forward had a better idea and blew some blasts on a bugle. With those men nearest to Stine pulling their oars in a steady rhythm, those behind took their cue from them and began joining in. Soon it was obvious that they had turned out of the main stream and headed for the channel.

Reaching the beacons, she could see the sturdy construction with a wide roof over each to ensure that any downpour could not extinguish the fires yet still permit them to be visible from the river. Yellow-clad figures tended each, but as soon as the Visund came in sight they abandoned their posts and began walking back towards the city, their job done.

That was a clever thing to do, but they knew we were out there somewhere. We would have seen them if we had been forced to approach Joth from the other direction as well. I guess they'll just leave those to burn out, and in a week or two they might even be under water.

Ursula tried to remember what she could of the day they had sailed out of Joth but failed. Too much had been happening then and river navigation had not been her concern as it was now. She just hoped that there were no shoals along this channel!

After a while the dock piers loomed out of the gloom. At the end of each a brave yellow clad watcher waited for them, directing that the Visund should go to the left side of all the piers. Once they saw that their directions had been noticed those men made their way back to the hardstanding to join a crowd of others waiting for the ship to arrive.

Now that the situation was under control, and they were no longer at the mercy of river currents, Hashim climbed down to join Ursula.

"What do we do now, Director? Tor wants to run up on that slope but it is full of people!"

"They are waiting for us, they must have some kind of plan. I hope so! If we just beach the Visund as usual we'll have to unload in the rain and everything will be ruined. And then the river will rise..."

"Good point. I hope they have a clever plan, that is all."

"I'll go forward. Tell Tor we might have to stop rowing in a hurry."

"As you command."

It occurred to Ursula that there was one person aboard who might have some idea what was intended.

"Tyra? We have to go to the foaksul now."

"Coming, Director."

As they clambered over bench after bench she asked Tyra, "You must know what happens to the port when the Rains begin. Do you know what they might do with the Visund?"

"No, Director. I do know they clear everything off the area between the walls and the piers and even pull all the pontoons out of the water and store them. All the small boats get taken into the city. My father hangs his up in the space under our house."

They reached the bow just as the ship came to the present waterline. A long blast on a bugle behind them made everyone cease rowing and lift their oars out of the water. Several yellow-clad figures waded into the water and grabbed hold of the ends of the nearest oars, holding the ship in place. Others moved forward, pairs carrying long lengths of timber which puzzled Ursula at first. Two men came with a thick rope and passed it up to the two lookouts, making gestures which seemed to indicate they should pass it around the stem and then back down to them.

A light dawned. "Oh! Those timbers are rollers. They want to pull us completely out of the water."

"Can they do that, Director? This must be the largest ship ever to come to Joth."

"They are certainly going to try... but I still think everything and everybody is going to get wet."

The lookouts passed the rope around the stem and then threw the end back down to the crowd. It was somehow secured and then most of the crowd tailed onto the rope and began heaving. As the bow came out of the water other men slipped a roller underneath. This continued with more rollers being fed underneath. The Visund moved up surprisingly well for a while and then progress slowed.

"We are too heavy," Ursula said as she surveyed the lack of progress. "Of course, as more of the ship comes out of the water... Eirik! Blow a long blast on that bugle and try and get those below to stop pulling for a moment."

As the bugle sounded Ursula turned and began making her way aft, raising her voice over the roar of the downpour as she repeated what she wanted done.

"Men! We need to lighten the ship. As soon as you can, climb off and help those ashore by pulling or pushing the ship up onto land. Leave your gear here for now. Be careful those rollers don't trap your feet. Women and children stay aboard for now." Ursula repeated these instructions in Norse.

With most of the crew now ashore the Visund made rapid progress up onto the hardstanding. Ursula was surprised when the movement did not stop but watched as the ship was pulled towards the gate and then part way through it before coming to a stop. The gatehouse over the gate was perhaps four to five strides wide and provided some shelter for the bow end of the ship.

Ladders were placed against the hull so that the rest of the occupants could disembark under cover. Ursula and Tyra remained aboard, helping those who were unused to such activity. Getting Eriana out was difficult and required a stretcher to be brought aboard, with a loose tarpaulin as a temporary shelter. The last to come forward were the two captains.

Tor saluted. «Well handled, Director.»

Hashim added, "A well thought out plan, Director." He gestured at their surroundings. "I trust those of Joth have made provision for this ship but I cannot think what."

Ursula smiled. "I have no idea either, Hashim. This whole business is a total surprise to me but these folk obviously know what they are doing." She made her own gesture. "After you."

"As you wish, Director. Coming, Tor?"

"You go now. Family awaits. I must be last to leave."

"As you wish, Tor."

As Hashim climbed down Ursula said to Tor, «We're not sinking, you know! We have just docked, essentially.»

«I know, Director. Call it Captain's choice. You follow?»

Ursula looked over the side. «Might as well, they are all waiting.»

At the bottom she waited for Tyra and gave her a steadying hand, although the younger woman probably didn't need it, even wrapped up in waterproofs as everyone was.

"Welcome home to Joth, Tyra. We have returned as we said we would."

The Visund has arrived at Joth at the same time as the edge of the Rains rolls over the Great Valley. The ship must somehow be unloaded and safe shelter found for the crew, but Eriana is indisposed and medical help takes priority. A nearby establishment may be just the place to take her.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

104 - At the Clinic

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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At the bottom of the ladder they were greeted by a man who, dressed in the customary enveloping wet-weather gear, looked just like everybody else.

He shouted, "Welcome back to Joth, Mistress Ursula."

The voice was familiar but in the dim light under the gatehouse - and the light outside being little better - she struggled to remember who it might be.

She shouted back, "I must apologize, dressed this way and in this light, everyone looks the same. Who are you?"

The man bowed. "I must in turn apologize, Mistress. You may remember me, I am Count Luthan, we have met before. If you would climb aboard the wagon, please. We have already loaded Her Highness and some few other women. Inside the warehouse it will be easier to speak."

"As you wish, My Lord."

So much water was coming down that the feet of Ursula's boots were already covered by the excess which was flowing out through the gate and towards the river. She turned to find that, backed partly under the gate, a covered wagon stood beside the ship. Several faces could just be seen aboard who might have been the other women from the crew. Tyra helped Ursula climb aboard and then followed. There she found, beside the stretcher bearing Eriana, most of the women except Bennet and Semma, with Hashim's family squashed against the front along with Kaldar.

With most of the wagon being outside the gatehouse arch the noise from the rain was deafening. Wondering if the roof would withstand the downpour she looked up to find the whole wagon body was made of carefully-crafted wood panels, well able to withstand the forces involved. Luthan waved a hand and the wagon lurched into motion, traveling a very short distance before entering one of the warehouses which were situated either side of the Dock Gate. Once completely inside the noise eased somewhat and men came forward to help the occupants out.

Ursula turned and studied her surroundings as the others climbed out. The warehouse was long, the ground level being completely empty apart from the reception committee and the Visund's crew, everyone clad in the customary yellow waterproofs. As yet there appeared to be little water coming into the building from the doors. Covering about three-quarters of the floor space, and reached by a ramp, a mezzanine could be seen in the dim lantern light. This was about five strides up, supported by brick columns and appeared to be packed with sacks and crates.

Luthan joined them, his gear streaming with water. He had to raise his voice to be heard over the pounding on the roof. "If you would all join the others under the mezzanine, please."

"Mistress?" That was Tyra. "What about Her Highness?"

"Leave her in there for now," Ursula decided. "It is obvious we cannot remain here for long."

"As you say, Mistress," Luthan confirmed. "If you would join the others yonder, it will be easier to speak and be heard."

Under the mezzanine the goods above, and the well-built roof above that, muffled the rain sufficiently that normal conversation was possible. Luthan walked forward, removing his cape and hood, and gestured for everyone to gather around him, particularly beckoning Ursula to his side.

"Mistress, if I may ask you to repeat what I am about to say to those of your crew who may not speak our tongue so well. I know that you are familiar with the tongue of Her Highness."

"And several others, My Lord. I will do as you request."

Luthan turned. "Friends, welcome to Joth, or in many cases, welcome back to Joth. I am Count Luthan of Hulmar, my father the Duke bade me come to welcome you to our city and to explain what we must needs do now. The water coming down outside is too powerful for anyone to travel any distance presently, even inside the city. It will relent somewhat but only perhaps in two to five days time.

"Until then we have arranged for most of you to lodge with the fisher folk of Foti Lane who reside close enough to safely reach today, many of whom I know you already account friends. Later, when the tumult outside reduces to that of a mere storm it is possible that many of you could move to other lodgings in the city should you so desire.

"For now I will make arrangements with Mistress Ursula here for you to help bring your belongings inside the warehouse where they may be stored above, away from the flood. For this we will use the wagon you see just inside the entrance."

Luthan remembered who was still in the wagon. "Ah, to discover that Her Highness is not well, that is unexpected. She is presently laying in the wagon and I must find out what we can do to help her before the wagon can be used for any other purpose."

He turned back to Ursula. "Mistress, if you would explain what has happened to her."

"Her Highness is not injured but has had what I would describe as a mental breakdown," Ursula explained, loud enough for everyone to hear. "She has had too many matters to manage, she has suffered too much stress. I had to sedate her - give her something to keep her quiet - because she was about to do something which could have threatened all our lives and risked the ship. She will recover but it could be a long process."

"I understand, I have seen it affect men when we were fighting those of Yod. But she cannot remain here, I deem. It is not a suitable place for anyone's patient."

Ursula cast a glance around. "I agree. What about the Clinic? That is, what, four streets away? Could we reach that in the wagon?"

"The Clinic! I had forgotten about that!" He looked doubtful. "Aye, that is about as far as I would risk the wagon. I do not know if anyone is there now or what may be there, should anyone require the services of a healer. There may not even be any food or firewood stored there."

"I cannot believe that the Clinic would be left unoccupied over the Rains, My Lord. After all, people are still going to have accidents and so on. Besides, the wagon has to come back here whether we stay or not so if the Clinic is empty we can just come back with it."

Luthan nodded. "As you say, Mistress."

She gave him a small smile. "Oh, and while we are here, calling me Mistress is fine but you should know that I am now a senior officer of the Federation Navy and my rank is Director of Welfare."

"Do you tell me? My apologies, ah, Director. For Her Highness, it would be better if she was taken as soon as possible, despite the delay it will cause in unloading your ship. By your leave, I must needs ask for volunteers to haul the wagon to the clinic and back."

Ursula held up a finger. "My Lord, that will not work. If we are going to the Clinic those who are going - and it could be a number of us - could be stuck there some days, by your account. We would require at least a change of clothing and some of our other belongings. I for one will want to have a good wash when I get there and I am sure that many of our other women will too."

Luthan frowned. "Other women? Surely you and your maid would be all that attend Her Highness?"

"My Lord, it is not that simple. Tyra is now more my companion than just a maid and may even be entitled to call herself a woman-at-arms. Her Highness now has two maids of her own and she has also adopted a boy who is twelve years old." Ursula paused, thinking. "We could probably manage without her own armswomen, Bennet and Semma, and my journeyman healer, Karan, could probably remain here with the others as well. Oh. I have just realized a point which may become important to you and to those who live in Joth."

"Director?"

"Our company now includes a number of new travelers who come from other lands. Some of those are Yodans who, I might add, have all given Her Highness their oath. That includes her two maids and my journeyman as well as," she counted up, "four others, two of whom are members of my staff. All of those want no more to do with Yod but your people may not see matters the same way."

"Yodans! Maker, I did not expect... Never mind, we must needs deal with that another time. How do you advise that we should proceed, then, in moving people?"

"My Lord, the ship needs to be emptied so that we can all find our belongings and take whatever we need, or Her Highness needs, with us. I suggest that, with the aid of our men that can be done fairly quickly. We can then load up what will be needed to go to the Clinic and get that journey out of the way. Perhaps while we are transferring Her Highness some of the men could be helped to their lodgings. I do not know if that is possible."

Luthan nodded thoughtfully. "You are good at this, Director. Aye, I agree. Let us do it while we are all still fresh enough."

Orders were issued and Eriana's stretcher was carefully lifted out and placed to one side. A number of Norse then climbed into the back of the wagon. Locals went to the front of the wagon which Ursula now saw had a drawbar which was fitted with four crossbars, meaning eight men on foot could pull it. The wagon was turned in the empty warehouse and headed out the double doors into the rain.

Ursula took the time while they were waiting for the wagon to reappear to check Eriana's condition. The Princess appeared to be sleeping deeply and could not be roused.

I only roughly estimated the dosage. I wonder if I overdid it? I do not think that anything bad will happen if I had but she might wake up with a hangover.

Wouldn't be the first time!

She also had a word with the other women, all of whom had gathered together away from the men. The children made another small group nearby, under the watchful eye of the women.

"Matta, Vellana, you heard? We are going to take Her Highness away from here in that wagon to a place called the Clinic. This is a new establishment for the sick and injured of Joth but for now I doubt there are many people there. If you go with her you'll be away from most people in Joth who would of course all be strangers. What do you say?"

"We will come, of course, Mistress," Matta replied. "She will need us to attend her until she is well again, and again afterwards. What is this place like?"

Ursula had to think about that one. "I can tell you but I doubt that either of you will understand the description. It is a converted weaving loft four streets away from here. There are three floors but, like this place, I imagine that the ground level will become flooded like this warehouse will be, so will be empty. The middle floor is where patients recover until they are well enough to go home and the upper floor is offices, storage and where we will actually do some of the difficult parts of healing when required. Her Highness will likely remain on the middle floor the whole time."

They both frowned. Vellana asked, "Will we have to climb up and down stairs all the time, Mistress?"

"No, there are ramps and I doubt you will have much reason to go to the other floors anyway."

"We'll come," Matta confirmed. Vellana nodded.

"Thank you." Ursula turned to the others. "I have no idea what facilities are there so, to begin with at least, I do not want to take too many more. I will take Kaldar, for reasons you know, and probably Ketko. For everyone else it looks as if His Grace has found room in Foti Lane although you'll probably be split up." She grinned. "Don't worry, all the housing is in two blocks and the dwellings in each block are connected by a deep covered balcony. You might sleep in different dwellings but you should all be able to visit each other easily and under cover. Bennet, Semma, are you happy with this arrangement?"

"Director, our commands from His Majesty are to remain with Her Highness," Bennet replied, "but the circumstances are unusual. I did expect to be back in the palace by now! But I can understand what you suggest and I am content to reside in Foti Lane until called for."

Semma added, "As she says, Director."

"Thank you. I'm sure Lord Luthan will inform us when it will be safe to transfer to the Duke's Mansion and there you can resume your duties as before."

"It is not so, Director," Bennet disagreed. "Her Highness now has maids for her personal needs and we will all be safe inside the Mansion. We will, of course, be required should Her Highness venture into the city or beyond but otherwise I imagine we will spend much of our time training with His Grace's men."

"Oh. Yes, things will be different, won't they? I'm sure we'll manage."

Semma said, "Director, if we may travel with you to the Clinic. We may not desire to stay there but you do not yet know what or whom is there. There may be trouble. We can always return with the wagon once it is known to be safe there."

Ursula grimaced. "I was trying to avoid taking too many people, Semma, since we'll have chests as well as people aboard this time. You do raise a good point, though. Let us see what space there will be when we load the wagon."

It seemed that some time passed before the wagon reappeared, water streaming from both the wagon and the men who had pulled it. Once completely inside the warehouse the Norse, who had kept dry inside the wagon and beneath the Visund's awning, climbed out and began unloading what they had brought. Ursula walked over to them.

«Did you have any problems?»

Tor replied, «No, Director. There is a little water inside at the stern but it has not affected any of our belongings. The man from the Mansion,» he pointed to the yellow-clad figure supervising the unloading, «asks us to empty the ship so it will be easier to move. We will need at least another journey to do that. Can Princess wait that long?»

«I am not sure that she will awaken for some time, Tor. Do what you need to. I will look after her.»

«Yah, Director.»

«Uh, did he say what they were going to do with the ship? I cannot imagine that anyone will remain aboard so it is going to be abandoned in the rain, possibly for some weeks.»

Tor nodded. «If the awning does not collapse then the Visund will be moved outside the walls, Director. They have moored some of those pontoons to the wall in such a way they will rise as the river rises. The Visund will be berthed to those pontoons.» He added with a shrug, «If too much water gets in and it sinks, we should be able to salvage it when the river level goes down again. It wouldn't be going anywhere except down.»

Ursula thought about this and then nodded. «They probably have a number of vessels stuck here when the Rains come, so must have procedures for dealing with them.The only difference is the Visund is an unusual shape and big.»

«Yah. Okay, time for next load.»

Ursula smiled. «Okay?»

Tor shrugged. «Princess Garia's words are everywhere, Director. Makes sense, too.»

He moved off to issue instructions and Ursula watched the proceedings. The unloaded material had been placed away from the entrance, under which water had now begun spreading across the floor. Others of the welcoming committee were taking the items and carrying them up the ramp to be stored safely away from the flood.

"Mistress, should we be checking what they take above? We might need some of those chests."

"Of course. There is no point taking them up if we have to bring some of them down again. Let's go."

Some conversation to the men meant that the items they might need at the Clinic were separated and stashed at the lower end of the ramp while everything else was carried to the top. The wagon reappeared as they were finishing and the next batch was unloaded, the wagon then disappearing again. When it arrived once more it was full of oars, some spare cordage and the rolled-up canvas of every scrap of sail the Visund had carried. Tor came over to them.

«We were told to bring it all in, Director, since the oars could get lost and the sails would surely rot.»

She nodded. «A sensible precaution, Tor. They must do this kind of thing every year, after all. Will the sails be looked after, do you know? Left in here, with water all over the floor, the sails could still rot.»

«Yah, Director. We will be able to come down later on and air the cloth out, even with water below.»

With the ship emptied, the wagon was filled with the nine chests Ursula thought they might need and Eriana was carefully placed aboard on top of them. The selected few climbed in and found room to stand, sit or squat. Outside, only Ursula remained as Luthan called for seven volunteers, who all turned out to be Norse crew members.

"Seven? An unusual number, My Lord."

"I will be the eighth, Director. I must needs go since none of your crew will know the way. The wagon has a seat for the wagoneer but if I sat there I could not tell those at the front when to turn or stop, so I will be one of those at the front bar."

"Are you sure? I know the route is reasonably flat but in this rain..."

"Aye. Ask me when we arrive, Director. If you would climb aboard now."

The wagon was less crowded than when they had transferred from the ship but the chests made movement awkward. The front and back had tarpaulin curtains which were mostly closed, allowing a small amount of light to enter under the overhanging roof while keeping the water out. There was a shout, a jolt and then the wagon was turning, rolling through the open doors and out into an unbelievable level of noise.

Now I know why Luthan couldn't give instructions to the pullers. Wow! I just hope nobody's hearing is damaged by all this.

Looking out through the gaps in the curtains showed absolutely nothing front or back. The rain hid everything.

How is he going to find where we want to go? I am amazed by the bravery of that man.

The wagon seemed to rumble along the half-drowned street for ages, stopping several times, once for what seemed like a long time and she wondered if there had been some problem. Eventually it turned off and rumbled along another street - she supposed - before halting again. This time there was a longer wait before another abrupt turn, a short ride and then they were suddenly into blissful silence.

The tarpaulins were twitched aside and a female voice called in, "You can climb out now."

The passengers all laboriously climbed out, most removing their capes and headgear with relief. Nearly all had remained completely dry, having transferred from ship to warehouse and from warehouse to clinic without suffering the deluge at all, which meant that they had become sweaty inside their rain gear. By contrast their team of pullers were leaning against the walls, too exhausted to even remove their dripping gear.

Ursula managed a quick look around the single gloomy space, expecting it to be empty except for the ramp climbing above, but finding that it was partly filled. The carriage had disappeared, doubtless to somewhere safe from the rising waters. Instead, filling the back half of the space was a grid of odd, box-like containers resting on the floor, each loosely roped to the ones around it. These containers were each filled with a stack of cut firewood.

Ah. Those will float up with the water as it rises. No need to make them navigable, they are just for internal storage so can be a simple structure and yet they will keep the contents dry.

"Oh! Mistress Ursula! Welcome back."

Ursula turned to the woman who had spoken, discovering a strange face. "Mistress, I do not know you."

"It is true, Mistress, but all in Joth now know you at least by sight. I am Healer Hanida, one of Senia's colleagues and I welcome you and those with you to Joth's clinic. My Lord there tells me you bring a patient to us, is there any need for urgency in their treatment?"

"It is Her Highness who is our patient, Hanida. She suffered... something like a panic attack during our journey and I was forced to give her something to calm her."

"Oh. Then -"

Luthan joined them, his face showing the strain of their short journey. "Mistresses, if I may suggest that we ask everyone to climb the ramp, I do not know how soon the waters will rise in this part of the city."

Hanida started. "As you say, My Lord!" She turned and frowned at the pullers. "Maker! These are Her Highness's men, I deem. Do they yet understand our tongue, Mistress?"

"Most now do, Mistress, but some of them may not speak so easily yet," Ursula replied. "I will translate if needed. Do we take off our wet weather gear down here or above? I would not want to carry the water up with us."

Hanida pointed. "As you say. We have provided pegs along the ramp there, to hang waterproof attire on. If the water rises so far then we can always move them higher, they will have dried by then."

"Ah. Thank you."

Ursula relayed this information to the Norse who began to slowly take off their waterproofs. She saw that many were so drained that they could barely hold their garments, so asked the girls to collect them and hang them up for the men. The Norse then began slowly making their way up the ramp.

There were two men with Hanida and they managed to extract Eriana's stretcher from the wagon and start taking it up the ramp as well. The healer looked at what was left in the wagon and turned to Ursula.

"So many chests! I did not expect... Do all of you intend to remain here in the clinic? We might struggle to provide for so many."

Ursula shook her head. "No, Mistress, the men who pulled us here are going to take the wagon back to the warehouse beside the gate so that the others in the crew can be taken, with their baggage, to Foti Lane until the rain slackens. You may recognize Guardswomen Bennet and Semma, who normally travel with Her Highness, they came with us in case there was any problem here but as all seems peaceful they will return with the wagon."

Hanida nodded to the two. "Welcome back, ladies."

Ursula considered her next words carefully. "By your leave, I would prefer to remain here with Tyra, my companion, along with Vellana and Matta," she gestured, "who are now Her Highness's personal maids. We have also brought the young boy there, Kaldar, who Her Highness has adopted, and also Master Ketko, a traveler from a distant land who has joined Her Highness's company. Will that be too many for you?"

"Personal maids? A traveler? Curious." Hanida smiled at Ursula. "Yes, we can find room for those you name. We have days of hard rain, doubtless you will find time to tell me what I need to know about these new folk. We will have plenty of bells to fill, after all."

"As you say."

Bennet and Semma pulled out a chest and began lugging it up the ramp. Ursula looked at Tyra.

"Can we manage a chest, do you think?"

"Some of them are not too heavy, Mistress. If we may try one? It will save the men and Bennet and Semma some journeys."

Hanida looked at the pair. "Are you sure? It is not a woman's job, I deem, but the days of the Rains are strange days."

"We'll manage," Ursula assured her.

"Then, by your leave, I will go above and start some water boiling. These fine men should have a hot drink before they pull that wagon away."

As Hanida walked away Ursula turned to Kaldar and Ketko, who had stood nearby, not knowing what to do.

"I do not know if you two can manage it, but could you carry my basket and bag up the ramp, please? We might need them above but we will be carrying a chest which I don't think either of you should be doing yet."

Ketko made a slight bow. "Of course, Honored Mother... ah, should I call you Director this time?"

Ursula smiled. "I do not really mind, Ketko. Let's get all this above so that the water cannot reach it."

By the time that Ursula and Tyra had carried a second chest up the ramp and stacked it tidily along with all the others the pulling crew had revived somewhat and all were now standing around the corridor in the middle level with steaming mugs in their hands. There was also a basket of fresh fruit from which Hanida encouraged all to take from, saying that it would help their energy going back and also prevent the fruit from possibly being wasted.

"You see," she explained to the others grouped around her, "we must needs exist on what foods we can store before the Rains come, since, as you now know, it becomes impossible to go out and collect more once it begins. That means eating the fresh food first before any of it goes off, and whether we can eat it all depends on how many are here. Of course, once the torrent slackens then it may be possible to go forth and obtain further supplies, and I know that His Grace," a nod towards Luthan, "will send boats around the city to provide for those whose stocks were small or already used up."

Ursula asked, "So whoever is here, then, has to exist only on the food stocks actually in the Clinic when the Rains start? For some time?"

The healer nodded. "As you say, Mistress. His Grace knows that sickness and injury do not stop when the waters start, so we are well provided should new patients be able to come here during that period. We have grain for breakfast, though we must needs make our porridge with water, we have flour for bread, fresh and preserved meats, cheeses, vegetables and fruits and a certain amount of wine, small beer and clean drinking water. Oh, and of course sufficient wood for any cooking and washing we must needs do, provided we are careful."

"Oh. That is a relief. I did not know how much this place had progressed after I left Joth. I was not even certain we would find anyone here at all."

"But Mistress! We knew that since you suggested it the Clinic would become an important place for we healers to use, and so it has proved. I doubt there has been a single day when we have not had some injury or other brought here to be treated. Even now we have two, who must needs remain here until the waters calm sufficiently."

They have treated my suggestions like words handed down from on high, which was not what I intended!

Still, if it works, good enough. That is Russian way.

"I am relieved to hear that, Hanida. I was half afraid that it would be left empty with people not knowing what to do with it."

"It has proved very useful, Mistress. We may keep more potions and other materials here than we can carry in our usual baskets and we have stocks here of many of the herbs needed to make more if required. Being able to treat patients in a familiar open space instead of a cramped bedroom or other chamber helps, too. The only problem we face is bringing the patient here in the first place, since the journey might cause their injury to worsen."

Ursula nodded. "It is a problem where I came from as well, but there may be ways around that. I will speak to you about our procedures once we have settled in and helped these fine gentlemen to depart."

One of those men turned at a sound and then addressed Ursula. «Director, Princess awakens.»

«Oh, right. About time!» She turned to Hanida. "It looks like Her Highness is reviving, I must attend to her."

"If I may assist?"

Ursula briefly thought. "There is nothing physically wrong with her, she has just been overburdened with everything that this voyage has involved - and the Rains hitting us has pushed her over the edge." She had another thought. "Yes, join me, you might need to attend her when I am... busy elsewhere or resting."

"As you say, Mistress -"

"Call me Ursula, please. We are healers doing the same work in the same place, there is no need to be so formal."

"Why, thank you... Ursula. It makes life easier if one can speak as to a friend."

Each went to different sides of the bed which held Eriana. The Princess moved as though disturbed and her eyes were only part way open, staring at nothing.

"Eriana. Can you hear me?" Ursula asked.

"Unh." The eyes moved, but covered the ceiling rather than those standing either side. The voice was slurred. «What place is this?»

Hanida frowned. "What did she say?"

"It is her birth language. She does speak ours very well but I would expect her to regress under these conditions. She should understand everything we say, though."

"Ah, as you say. Highness, would you like some water?"

The tongue came out a little to explore dried lips. "Yah. Water." Her eyes closed again.

Hanida went to fetch a beaker of water. When she returned she said to Eriana, "I have water, Highness."

Between them they managed to lift her up by arranging pillows behind in order that she could drink a little. Afterwards she sighed and relaxed, her eyes closing again.

Hanida looked puzzled. "She sleeps too much, Ursula. What exactly did you give her?"

A grimace. "It was all done in haste, Hanida. We were attempting to pass the Cauldron but it had changed since we went upstream weeks ago. Her Highness became terrified we would lose the ship and everybody on board would die. We had to hold her down while my basket and some water was fetched. I put some tasan into a beaker of water and made her drink it."

The healer made a sharp intake of breath. "Tasan, you say?" Her look was intent. "Did you measure it into the beaker?"

"In a ship which had just gone over a small waterfall and was navigating between two Cauldrons? No, Hanida. I had to do it by eye. I did suspect that I had given her too much but, even so, she should have revived by now."

"A waterfall? Two Cauldrons? Maker, no wonder you are all exhausted! I must needs hear this tale, I deem, but first... Did you have no anoteris root with you? That would have been safer."

"Anoteris? No..." Ursula then remembered Senia using it when they operated on Mamoot all those weeks ago. "Senia had some which she used when we needed it for Mamoot. Why? Should I not have used tasan?"

"It acts differently, Ursula, so we have observed. Anoteris usually lasts about two to three bells and is reasonably safe to use but tasan has a deeper effect on the patient's body. We tend to use it on badly injured patients who must needs be moved to somewhere safer before treatment - for example, if someone fell from the city walls and yet survived. But surely you knew this when you added the tasan to your basket."

"I was given the tasan in Bibek, Hanida, by one of the Margrave's healers. I did mention that I had nothing with me that could be used to render a patient unconscious if I needed to. They have slightly different ways of making up some of their potions and salves and we spent some time talking about the differences. I probably have a note somewhere but I have not had the time to review my notes or decide what if anything was important."

"Ah. What is done is done, I deem. She may be very confused when she does wake up." Hanida looked at the Norse. "What of these men? Do you think they are yet recovered enough to depart?"

Ursula smiled. "If I were to ask them they would all answer yes but I think they should wait a little, even though it is going to cause delay the other end." She turned to the men. «Boys? I want you to rest a little more before you go out into that rain again. I know there are people waiting the other end but I want to make sure you are going to get there at all. That rain is unbelievable.»

There was a mutter of agreement from the men.

«Do you need more food or drink before you go? I know that last stretch in the ship was difficult.»

Eirik stepped forward. «Director, you know it was. If there is food to eat, it makes sense to have some more before we leave.»

«I'll ask.»

Ursula turned to Hanida. "I have suggested they eat and drink some more before they go. Pulling the wagon through that torrent is hard work. What else is available apart from the fruit? Is there any bread?"

"There is bread," Hanida replied with hesitation. "but including your own party, these... eight men and the two women-at-arms will eat everything we have, since we had not planned to have so many here during the worst of the weather."

Bennet looked at Semma, receiving a shake of the head, and then turned to Hanida. "By your leave, Mistress, we did not pull so we are not in such a need of extra food - yet. Feed the men, we will wait until we reach our assigned billets."

Ursula added, "Hanida, you need not feed those who are going to remain here either. We can eat later on."

Hanida nodded. "That is a little more manageable, then." She waved a hand. "If you would all follow me. Ursula, if you would remain with our patients while I feed this crowd."

"Of course, Hanida."

The men moved off towards the front of the building leaving Ursula, Tyra, Kaldar, Ketko, Matta and Vellana standing in the cubicle which held Eriana.

Matta asked, "Mistress, if you could explain this place. it appears very complicated to my eyes."

"Actually, Matta, I can't tell you all about it since they were still building the partitions and offices when I departed Joth. I can tell you what I do know, though." She gestured around and across the corridor. "These cubicles are where patients will stay while they are recovering from whatever brought them here. I see that there are six over there, I assume there are the same number this side. I don't know how they are ordering them, whether it will be to just use any one as needed or, for example, to have women one side and men the other."

Vellana objected, "But there are no doors, Mistress!"

"That is deliberate, for two reasons. Firstly it will allow anyone walking past to notice if a patient needs immediate attention and secondly to prevent them becoming completely isolated. They can see healers walking around and maybe even talk to people opposite."

"But what happens when they want to dress or undress? It would be unseemly to do that in front of strangers."

"Agreed." Ursula looked at the top of the partition. "Oh, there are supposed to be curtains which can be closed when someone needs privacy, such as when a healer is examining them or they need cleaning up, changing clothes or having dressings changed. Perhaps I didn't tell them that? Hmm. Maybe I need to make a good inspection when we have some better light."

"They would permit you to do that, Mistress?"

"This whole building is my idea, Vellana. Before I arrived all patients would be treated in their own homes, usually in an upstairs bedroom where they would be left on their own for most of the day. If they had serious injuries, or something else that needed a healer's attention, sometimes a bedroom is not the best place to do anything about it."

They are both village girls who probably have no idea how any of this works. It is not surprising they find it all complicated!

"As for the rest of the building, at the front, the whole width of the building should be a large room where patients who can move about can sit and talk to one another or merely just rest in the sunshine - when there is any. Behind that are two smaller rooms where healers can speak to patients and examine them in private. At the back," she gestured, "should be a toilet, a special bathing chamber patients can use and a kitchen to feed everyone from.

"Upstairs... I mean, up the second ramp, should be store-rooms for healer's supplies, offices for the healers who will work here and perhaps places where they can rest between sessions. Right at the back, where the weaving looms used to be, is where we will perform any major work which has to be done to a patient - such as amputations, for example."

I'm not going to go into detail, they wouldn't understand it and I might just frighten them.

"That chamber has large windows to get the best of the light and also chandeliers for when it becomes as dark as it is today. If someone has a bad accident just as the sun sets we would not want to wait until the following day to have enough light to work by."

"As you say, Mistress."

Tyra asked, "Director, you mentioned a toilet. If we may investigate where it might be?"

"You have a need? Of course you do. We have been on that ship a while since we departed Ferenis. Oh - they hadn't even built a toilet or bathroom when we were here last. I remember the plumber arriving just as -" Ursula paused.

"- Just as Lord Mathenar arrived," Tyra completed the thought.

"Yes. I wonder where he is now? Matta, Vellana, Tyra and I will go and discover the facilities at the back of this floor and use them. I'm sure you'll need them soon enough. Can you keep an eye on Her Highness while we are gone?"

"Of course, Mistress, that is our duty."

"Any problems, one of you go to the front and fetch Healer Hanida."

"Aye, Mistress."

The toilet was a larger chamber than Ursula had expected.

Of course, they may have to maneuver patients in here sometimes. Perhaps Maralin gave them some advice about dimensions. He must have had at least some experience of visiting a hospital in Chicago.

Ursula and Tyra did what they needed to and cleaned up. A kind of hand pump with a long lever was used to flush the toilet which made Ursula frown.

I wonder where the tank is? Is this using their fresh drinking water? Probably not, not with all that coming down outside. These buildings appear to be more sophisticated than I remember from before.

"While we are here, let's look at what else is this end."

The bathing chamber had a raised bath, still big enough to accommodate eight people, but with the interior split into two levels to permit semi-mobile patients to be cleaned up safely. On the other side of the rear door was a large kitchen space which had an impressive range and a brick bread oven. Ursula had noticed the range when they had been there previously but the oven was new. One side of the kitchen was stacked high with chopped firewood while many sacks of various food items nearly filled the rest of the floor space.

A lot of this will disappear soon enough, especially with so many here. But the Rains will last two months or so...

Ursula briefly opened the back door to discover that it was now completely dark outside. The rain roared down, making speech impossible, so she closed the door swiftly again.

"Hmm. At least the balcony appears to be dry enough to walk along if we have to get out that way," she remarked. "But there is nowhere to go at the moment. Okay, let's go back to the others so that they can use the toilet if they need to."

Back at Eriana's cubicle they relieved Matta and Vellana who walked fairly rapidly off to the rear. Ursula looked at Kaldar and Ketko.

"There is a toilet back there but you'll probably have a line of women wanting to use it first," she told them. "I suggest that if you cannot wait, then in an emergency you could open the back door and do your business from the balcony behind these buildings. The rain will soon wash everything away. The balcony has a roof but it is very noisy out there so don't stay too long."

"Your words are my instructions, Director."

Hanida appeared then. "Ah, Ursula. Have any of you yet discovered our toilet? Bennet and Semma desire to make use of it but I thought I would ask you and your people first."

"Tyra and I have been, Hanida, and I have sent Her Highness's two maids off in that direction. Is there only one toilet in the whole building, for everyone to use?"

"Indeed not, Ursula, there is another toilet and bathroom installed upstairs. Tenant Maralin, as he was then, advised us what would be required and suggested that, after any healers had used the... operating theater, is that right? ...they would require their own place to clean themselves up, so a toilet and bathroom were installed upstairs as well."

"That is good to know. If you have enough patients here to fill all these beds and the healers to manage them, then one toilet would not really be enough."

"Indeed, that is what he said. Now, tell me, are you any good at baking bread? Because -"

Eriana groaned. Everyone turned to look at her and then surrounded her bed. She opened her eyes, rubbing them with a hand, and then turned her head to inspect all those who were around her.

«Where am I? What is this place? It does not look like Valhalla, Asgard or even Midgard.»

Ursula, the only person there who could understand Norse, replied, "Highness, you are in Joth on the world Anmar, which is part of Midgard."

Eriana regarded Ursula with a frown. "Who are you? Where are my thralls? What is this place?"

"I am Healer Ursula, Highness. I have traveled with you on your ship as far as Bibek and back to Joth. Your maids have gone to the toilet, they will be back in a few moments."

Eriana's frown turned to a grimace. "Maids? I do not understand. Bibek? You make no sense. My ship? It is lost." The grimace turned to pain, tears forming at the corners of her eyes. "All my crew are dead. Why am I still here? I need to join them in Valhalla."

Ursula said, patiently, "Highness, your crew is not dead and neither are you. We have all survived and are resting in safety, out of the storm."

Her gaze sharpened and fixed on Ursula. "Liar. I remember the sea - it was too much for us - the sea took us. Leave me alone. Go away."

Eriana turned on her side away from Ursula, closed her eyes and began sobbing.

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.