Kirra stands with me as we face the council, older graying men, none of whom I know. The blood has long darkened on my cotton shift and all I can wonder is why my new husband left me in such company or rather the lack of his company. Am I not wanted?

I am careful not to betray my true feelings, but my eyes are saddened and dark. This try on my life was the first, although many of the other Vindelici have treated me as if I lesser being here. Why was I not worthy?

”…Perth…the accusations stand true. Until Vladamir returns to us you will chained to the Ageless tree with silver. No meat will be given nor blood to sustain to you. If your chain allows the mice will your nourishment, if you can catch them and one daily cup of water.” Perth begins to speak before he is made to maintain his silence. “Silence! The try on her life and the death of her kinsman warrants a death from you if she so pleases, but her honor to her father has prevented her from this …”

I barely listen to the sentence only knowing that he is midst of a terrible punishment. Before I know it I am being lead away by Kirra and one of the old men. I think he is assuring me that Perth will be taken care of, but I care not at the moment. I do not respond as my thoughts become my own… Why should I not request leave to go back to my own home?... The councilman addresses Kirra assuring her I will fine after a few good nights sleep and fine meats. I make eye-contact with him and my eyes turn beastie only for a moment, if only he knew how I kept my facilities about me.

Kirra leads me to the great lonely bed and undresses me before the roaring fire in the dwelling of my husband’s. It was a cold night. She tosses the bloodied shift into the fire; within a blink of an eye it is engulfed. My washbasin was left out and the water is lukewarm from sitting so near the fire. Kirra takes a cloth and wipes away the few speckles of blood that covers my face and body. My body responds to Kirra’s touch and the events that happened earlier have started to sink in, but mostly the thoughts of my worth in this clan have started to get to me. A big tear breaks free and is gently wiped away by an affectionate caress, her lips cover mine and I am drawn into a loving embrace with my own salty tears…