"Dalriada comes first Domnall, we can send aid to Donachd once we have dealt with these Picts. If we are quick about it we should still be back at our... hearths in time for the harvest I say!" replied the King."As you wish, Sire," Domnall responded, turning to leave the hall and begin his task."Gemma! Where are you girl, Gemma?" Eochaid called out.A young girl appeared at his side, her long copper hair hanging almost to her waist and her green eyes sparkling with intelligence. Her skin was fair,. “It’s men’s affair isn’t it?”I shook my head and looked serious, taking her hand gently. She did not withdraw it. “Many women have suffered, many have worked for their cause, on both sides, but I know the patriot side better where women have labored to support the men in arms, the cause of freedom.”She licked her lips and swallowed. “I met a man, a young officer, who told me some women had sacrificed their,” she hesitated, “their reputation, their bodies in support of the King, the loyal cause.. She was looking into my eyes too. Then she slowly started withdrawing her hand. I guess this awkward silence and looking into each others eyes was building the tension.At the moment I forgot about the publication, my work tomorrow, my family, even my name. I felt like we two were drifting alone in the universe. Away from the worlds, towards each other.Her hand slowly went back to her side and at that moment she closed her eyes. It was some kind of trigger. Next thing I remember was my lips. I am just a woman with few options and very little time left before the infection takes me. I feel the power seducing me. A siren's song singing through my blood and I cannot escape its call by covering my ears for it courses within me. Oh! It promises such pleasures, but I know they are lies. And, yet..." Her head tilted back and a moan escaped her cracked lips.With a strength that surprised both women, Helen grabbed Kimberly by the shoulders and shook her."Look at me! You will not give in to.