Zachary smiled and waved Milena towards a chair. "No need for that, lass," he said, "I may be a little stiff, but I can still pour tea for my guests. Besides, I need the exercise." He placed four cups on the table and slowly sat himself down on a chair.

"My wife belonged to the traveling people," he said while looking at Milena, "she loved me, but I know she missed her family. It must be hard for you too."

Milena sighed and looked down. She didn't want to hurt Emily's feelings, who was still next to her.

Emily smiled at her kindly. "It's alright, Leah," she said, "we are your family now. We love you." She placed a hand on Milena's arm.

Milena answered her smile with a weak one of her own and patted Emily's hand.

Zachary watched the two girls with a warm smile. It was clear the two girls cared about each other and it made him happy. When he and his wife first tried to find a place to live , people had not been welcoming. Most of them had been hostile. They had been lucky to find Joseph and Hannah, who had been nothing but kind to them, a proof that there were still good people in the world.

"You are fortunate," he told Milena, "that the Blackwood family took you in."

Milena nodded. She knew she had been lucky. She wondered how it would have been if it had been Jackson Caldwell that had found her instead. Or one of the villagers that attacked her family. A shiver ran down her spine.

"Of course we took you in," Emily said, "you were injured and you needed help. We would never leave you by yourself. We are so happy that you're living with us, Leah. And Daniel especially." She smiled mischievously. "You would make a lovely couple."

Milena bit her lip and looked down at her hands sadly. She knew Daniel had feelings for her and she knew Amelia and Emily both would like to see the two of them together, but she wasn't sure she could give them what they wanted. What would become of her then? Where would she go? Could she still stay here?

Zachary noted Milena's sadness and carefully tried to steer the conversation in another direction. "I should thank you, Miss Emily, for being such a good friend to my son."

"Da," Harun protested embarrassed.

Emily blushed and looked at him shyly. "I am glad he is my friend," she said softly, "I never had many friends."

"Then it is their loss," Zachary said gently, "you shouldn't feel sad about it. You need to cherish the friends you do have. They are what matters."

"Yes, you are right," Emily took a deep breath and smiled. "And I have good friends." She looked at Milena who smiled back at her warmly and at Harun, who was grinning widely. She thought of Jane, who was always kind to everyone. Yes, she couldn't

wish for better friends.

***

"Are you alright?" Petsha glanced at Daria. She was sitting next to him on the front of the wagon and had been awfully quiet. Now, her face had turned a shade paler.
Petsha wrapped an arm around her shoulder. "Speak, love. What is it that is on your mind?"

Daria sighed. "I am frightened," she admitted.

"Why are you frightened?" Petsha asked in a comforting tone.

"We are back," Daria whispered, "people hurt us here. What if they will hurt us again? Who else do we have to lose?"

"We will not lose anyone, ves'tacha. We will bring someone home." Petsha kissed her temple affectionately and urged the horse to pick up speed.

"I hope it is so," Daria said.

"I promise it is so," Petsha said, "and then we will find your brother too."

"I hope we do," Daria said. She tilted her chin upwards. "I will give him a piece of my mind, I will. How dare he leave?!"

Petsha grinned at her. "That's my Darka. I should almost hope we will not find Ramiro. At least away he is protected from his sister's wrath."

Daria slapped his chest. "Do not say such things."

Petsha chuckled and caught her hand. He placed a kiss on her knuckles. "Do not worry so much," he said, "all will be well. You will see."

...

Not far behind, Dorin steered his family's wagon. He had a sour expression on his face. He was still at odds with his father. And his brother had been pestering him relentlessly.

No matter what he tried, Kristof would not be ignored.

Dorin sighed when his bother climbed over to where he was sitting and swung an arm over his shoulder.

"Ah Dorin," Kristof grinned widely, "do not scowl like that or your little bride may run away again. Eh. Or maybe that is why you cannot find a wife. Your face scares them all away." He laughed loudly.

Dorin growled and pushed Kristof's arm away. "Don't speak like a fool. And where is your wife then? I do not see any woman at your side."

Kristof smirked and slapped his brother's back. "You are mistaken, little brother. Women love me. But I am not looking for a wife. You, on the other hand, scare all the girls away with that scowl of yours. Perhaps you should practice smiling while we are still underway. Maybe then you can sway little Lenka."

Dorin glowered at his brother. Why would Kristof never leave him in peace? He held out the reins to Kristof. "Hold these for a moment. I have a cramp."

Kristof blinked and took the reins without thinking. A second later he scowled when Dorin jumped to the ground and jogged up to the front of the row of wagons. "Hey!" Kristof called after him, "I thought you only had a cramp!"

"And I just got rid of it!" Dorin called over his shoulder.

Kristof scowled and gripped the reins tighter. His little brother had outsmarted him, but he would get even.

He flinched when his mother's voice rang behind him. "Were did your brother go? Was not Dorin the one to steer the wagon?"

"Dorin had a cramp in his leg," Kristof said, "he's gone to walk it off."

"Stop pestering your brother," Abhirati slapped the back of her son's head, "What did you do to chase him away? You said something again."

"Why is it always my fault?" Kristof complained, "it is never Dorin."

"Because Dorin is my good son," Abhirati cast back mercilessly, "not a troublemaker like you and Tisrav. I feel pity for the girl that will be your wife."

"Then perhaps I should not marry," Kristof said smugly, "perhaps I should live with my mother all my life."

"You will be the death of me," Abhirati swatted at him, "shame on you for making fun of your mother."

Kristof grinned at her and blew her a kiss. "You know you love me."

"Hm," Abhirati mused, "we'll see about that." She disappeared back into the wagon.

...

"Dorin," Alec called when the young man darted past their wagon.

Dorin didn't reply but slowed his step to keep pace with the wagon.

Alec's mother Ersan sighed quietly. "Your brothers mean well," she tried to ease Dorin. The temper of Czibor's sons was widely known through the kumpania, or rather, all kumpania. Tisrav and Kristof were as loud as Dorin was quiet, but they loved their family very much.

Dorin bit his tongue so he wouldn't tell her to mind her own business. No matter what mood he was in, he still respected those that were older than him.

Ersan smiled kindly. She had known Dorn his entire life. The young man had a good heart. Even now, with Lenka, he wanted to do the right thing and offer her security.

"It is still long before we make camp," Ersan said, "ride with us on our wagon. You do not need to walk."

Dorin seemed to think on it a moment and gave a stiff nod. Ersan smiled and motioned for Alec to move into the back. She shifted over to allow some room for Dorin.

Dorin took the reins from her. If he was going to ride on their wagon, he needed something to do. He felt restless sitting idle. He glanced at Ersan from the corner of his eyes. The woman had not had an easy life. Dorin had still been a child when Alec's father had been chased from the kumpania for his abusive behavior, so he didn't remember much about it, but Ersan was still fairly young. She could have easily married again, but had chosen to stay alone. Was it because she was afraid another man would mistreat her? Or was it because she did not need a husband?

"It is such a relief that Lenka is still alive," Ersan said, "if we do not find Ramiro, I am sure she will accept you."

Dorin's hand tightened around the reins. Yes, Ramiro was still out there somewhere too. And now that Ramiro had his father's blessing to take Milena for a wife, what would happen? Milena did not know, but she would hear soon enough. He was certain Daria would tell her right away.

"If we find Ramiro, then we will find him," Dorin said calmly, "if not, then I will make Lenka my wife."

Ersan smiled at him with a hint of sadness. He as a good man, honorable and humble. Any girl would be lucky to have him. She just feared it would not be Milena. "I wish you happiness," she said.

He deserved it.

***

Nathaniel smiled appreciative at the pistol in his hands. He turned it around thoughtfully before handing it back to Daniel. "They are truly magnificent. Have you tried firing them yet?"

"Yesterday," Daniel nodded, "they are easy to carry. They may be antique, but their previous owner has taken good care of them."

Nathaniel chuckled. "As long as you don't go around challenging people to a duel."

Daniel laughed too. "You don't have to worry about that. Still, with all those rumors about highwaymen robbing lone travelers, I feel safer carrying a weapon. Though I hope I will never have to use them."

"Just be careful where you aim that thing," Nathaniel cautioned, "you wouldn't want any unfortunate incidents."

Daniel shook his head amused. "I am no stranger to the arts of weaponry. It was part of my education you know. 'A gentleman should know how to defend himself,'" he quoted his arms teacher.

Nathaniel laughed and patted his friend's shoulder. "As long as you don't forget that in the word 'gentleman' lies both 'gentle' and 'man'. A gentle man does not reach for weapons."

Daniel chuckled. "Nathaniel my friend, I think you missed your calling. You should have studied the arts of philosophy."

"And end up an old prune like that one teacher? I think I've been fortunate Ara saved me from such a fate." Nathaniel smirked, "I'd rather have a wife to warm me than some dusty old scrolls."

Daniel grinned. "We'll see how you feel about that in a few years time when you've had your fill of gossip and pranks, with a littler of children filling your house."

"Ah now," Nathaniel answered, "I think that life would suit me just fine. If there is brandy. Is there brandy?"

Daniel chuckled. "There will always be brandy. Come, let's see if we can open up a new bottle. There is one in my study that has our name on it."

***

Dwight looked up when the door to the inn opened and brought in a gust of wind. The lone traveler shook out his coat and let out a deep sigh before approaching the bar. "A beer," the visitor said while seating himself.

Dwight grinned and placed a mug in front of the man. "You're late, George Filcher. People around here were getting anxious that you might not come at all."

George took a swig from his beer. "Damn winter," he said, "I got delayed. First it was the weather, then I had to pay for an escort because there was word of robbers, and the final part of the journey my sled broke down. Took me twice as long to get here. Almost lost my cargo too."

"You should have Matthew look at it then. He can get that sled of yours all fixed up."

George nodded. "I'll drop by tomorrow after I make deliveries."

Dwight chuckled at that. "You might wanna start with Dale and Fanny. I heard she's been givin' him a hard time."

"And how is dear Fanny?" George asked amused

"A lot better these past few days. Dale must be doing something right. She's been purring like a cat."

"So he finally tamed her, did he?" George chuckled, "I didn't think I'd live to see the day." He put his now empty mug down. "I'll make sure she's the first one on the list in the morning." He stretched and shook his shoulder. "Do you have a room for the night?"

"Of course," Dwight reached back and grabbed a key which he handed to George. "Third room on the left, first floor. Go get settled. Today's meal is roasted pork, straight from the fire and potatoes."

George's mouth watered at the prospect. He'd had enough of stew which was about all he had eaten the past few weeks. "Just what I needed." He picked up his bags and slung them over his shoulder. "I'll be right down." He made his way up the stairs to the room he was renting for the night. He liked this town. It was always the last town on the list before he'd make the journey home, though that wouldn't be until a few days from now. He hoped Matthew could fix his sled or it would be a long journey.

The smells of the food wafted up the stairs and George felt his stomach growl. He longed for a good hearty meal and Dwight's famous crusty bread in the morning.
He stored his remaining pelts in the corner and made his way back down to get himself a plate of well earned food.

***

The children giggled when the horse underneath them sped up to a simple trot. The girl in front grabbed a fistful of the mare's mane to remain seated while the girl behind her grabbed the waist of the older girl.

Ramiro smiled while leading the horse by a lone line. He had been teaching the village children how to ride for the past few days. He liked interacting with them and he was giving his horse some exercise at the same time.

In the beginning, some of the parents had been wary, but he had performed his lessons on the town's square for all to see and soon enough a crowd had started to form whenever he was teaching.

"Keep your heels down, Sasha," he instructed, "Marie, sit up straight. Let the horse carry you. Yes, that is it." He clacked his tongue and the horse jumped to a steady canter, making the children squeal in delight.

After a few rounds, Ramiro slowed the horse down until it halted. "Next one," he said and he helped the two little girls down before turning to a small boy. "You want to ride the horse, Adam?"

The boy's eyes started to shine and he nodded eagerly. Ramiro smiled when he helped the boy on the horse's back. At times like these, he missed the kumpania where he taught the children how to take care of the horses and to repair the tack. He missed his family and his friends. And above all, he missed Milena. There would never be anyone else for him.

The day was coming to an end and Ramiro lifted Adam from the horse and said goodbye to the children. They waved at him enthusiastically and hurried home to their parents where the evening meal was waiting for them.

Ramiro brushed down his horse and made sure the animal had enough to drink for the night. He patted the mare's neck. "There's a good girl. We are doing well, is it not so, Galbi? We have found a good place, you and I."

Galbi nudged him affectionately before nibbling at her hay. With one last pat on the neck, Ramiro crossed the blacksmith's to enter the house.

Matthew was already seated at the table. When he saw Ramiro enter, he smirked. "Did the kids finally let you go? You have become quite the attraction."

"It is good if children learn how to ride," Ramiro said simply, but there was a smile on his lips, one that Matthew and Bonny rarely got to see.

Matthew nodded in agreement. "That is true, but most people here can't afford a horse and Dwight needs his horses to rent out to travelers. It's a luck you arrived."

"And you are a great help to us too," Bonny chimed in while placing dinner on the table.

"It is all I can do to thank you," Ramiro answered. He felt uncomfortable with their gratitude. It was only natural to him to help them out. They had saved him after all.

"I already told you, there is no need to repay us," Matthew said, "which doesn't mean I don't appreciate the help. I just wouldn't want you to feel obliged."

"It is good and honest work," Ramiro said.

"Enough about work now," Bonny scolded lightly, "let Milan eat in peace."

Matthew chuckled. "Alright, alright."

"I hear George finally arrived," Bonny spoke, "just when spring is around the corner. I hope his delays don't mean anything serious befell him."

"We'll hear soon enough," Matthew answered, "at least he is here now. Should I place an order for next year?"

Bonny smiled. "It would be nice to have some new furs next winter. And with the extra money we've been making thanks to Milan, we can afford it now. Milan, will you still be with us next year? If you would like some pelts yourself, then feel free to place an order too. George's merchandise is always good quality. His landlord has permitted him to set a certain amount of traps each year."

Ramiro looked at her with an unreadable expression. Would he still be here next year? He could not say for certain. Who could know what the future would hold? For now he liked it here. As he had said to his horse, this was a good place, but he was not used to staying in one place. Traveling was in his blood and with spring so near he could feel that blood stirring.

"Honey, don't put Milan on the spot like that," Matthew looked at Ramiro seriously. "I understand if you feel the need to move on. We would be sad to see you go, but you should not feel forced to stay with us, even though you are more than welcome."

Ramiro gave a grateful nod. "Thank you. I cannot say how long I will stay. You have been good to me. Not matter where my path lies, I will not forget."

"Then I hope you will also not forget there will always be a place for you here," Bonny said warmly. She had grown attached to the quiet young man.

Ramiro answered her smile and nodded again. Only time would tell whether he would leave or stay, but like always he would be ready to take the step and accept where life would take him.

***

The fire in their campsite burned low. Darkness had already set in and a few people were making music or speaking in soft voices.

Daria leaned back against Petsha and sighed. They were so close now. "Do you think they will have hurt her?" she asked in a small voice. She still remembered how the villagers had chased them with dogs. She could still hear her little cousin's screams. The memories made her shiver.

Petsha wrapped his arms around her and rubbed her arms in a soothing manner. "Oszkar's kumpania did not think she was hurt. Please do not fear, Darka. We will bring her back safely."

"What if they do not let her go?"

"We will make them let her go. Darka, we will bring her back home. I promise you this." He kissed her forehead. "Milosh says tomorrow night we will arrive in the area of Blackwood. We need to find a secure place for our camp and then we will make careful inquiries. Try to sleep, Daria. Lenka would not want you to fall ill."

Daria sighed. "I know this," she said sleepily.

Petsha smiled and leaned his head on top of hers. It was all he could do to comfort her. If he was being honest, he was worried as well. This region was not kind to them. They couldn't go ask direct questions in the villages. They would only be chased away, or worse. They would have to be circumspect, eavesdrop on conversations to see if there were any rumors about a gypsy girl, as the gadje named them. Perhaps they could find the road to this Blackwood home, but even then they were likely to get chased away at the gates. Large homes always came with gates.

And dogs.

Was this even the right place?

Petsha sighed sadly. In his arms, Daria had finally fallen asleep and Petsha carefully lifted her and carried her inside the wagon. He should follow her example. There wasn't much that could be done at this point. They would just have to wait until morning and hope everything would turn right in the end.

***

"Oh, I forgot," Matthew slapped his forehead, "I was supposed to drop off Dwight's order today. I finished fixing up his gate and I promised to bring him those horse shoes too. He wanted them for the span he's renting out tomorrow." He let out a heavy sigh. He had been looking forward to an early night.

Matthew looked at Ramiro apologetic. "Would you mind aiding me, Milan? I could use some help carrying the gate and shoeing the horses. I know it's a lot to ask and you've worked all day..."

"I will help," Ramiro cut off his apology. Between the two of them it would be an easy task and would not take up much time.

"Thank you," Matthew sighed gratefully and he stood up.

Ramiro followed him back to the smith's and together they carried the large iron gate and a bag full of horse shoes and equipment towards the inn.

They leaned the large gate against the wall of the inn and Ramiro dropped the bag next to it.

"I will go and tell Dwight we are here," Matthew informed him, "we'll need him to open the stables for us."

Ramiro nodded and watched him enter the establishment.

A few minutes later Matthew returned with Dwight in tow. "I really appreciate you coming this late," Dwight said, "it wouldn't have been a problem during any other day, but I promsied my client a coach tomorrow and I need my horses shoed for that. Don't worry about the gate for now. That can wait. No need to work all night." He opened the stable doors for them. "Come fetch me once you've finished up." He turned to leave but then paused. "Oh, that reminds me, George arrived not too long ago. His sled broke down. Would you mind having a look at it? You can bring it home with you once you've finished with the horses. George said he'd come see you about it after he does his rounds tomorrow."

"Sure," Matthew nodded, "it's not a problem."

Dwight nodded. "Good," he said, "I will tell him to wait up for you." He nodded at Ramiro in greeting and left them to it.

Matthew sighed. "Well," he said, "let's get to it."

***

"Such a luck Matthew has a chance to look at my sled," George commented as he ordered another beer, "saves me the trouble of going over tomorrow."

Dwight nodded. "I asked him to take it home with him once he's finished up in the stables. Shouldn't take him too long. His new hand is quite adept. Matthew's lucky to have found him."

"Business going that well for him that he can afford to hire someone?" George raised an eyebrow.

Dwight chuckled. "That's the best of it, he doesn't want money, just food and boarding."

George blinked, not believing what the man was telling him. "No money at all? Where'd Matthew manage to find someone like that?"

"Frozen on the forest road," Dwight informed him. He shook his head. "I have to admit, I had my doubts at first too, but the lad has proven himself capable. So far he hasn't done anything that warrants suspicion. He's a hard worker, very to himself, but he gets along with the kids. He's been teaching them how to ride a horse." Dwight shrugged. "Who knows. Perhaps it's not all true what they say about 'em."

"About who?" George frowned confused.

"You know," Dwight said, "them gypsies. I guess they're not all lairs and thieves. Must have a few good ones too."

George's breath hitched upon hearing Dwight's words. Gypsies? "You have a gypsy living in your town? Working here? You let them around your children?"

"Hey now," Dwight said, "I know what you must be thinking, but I assure you, Milan is a good one. Never offends anyone. We're lucky to have him here."

George shivered. "Just wait until they burn your village down," he muttered.

"What was that?" Dwight blinked confused.

"Nothing," George frowned. "Found him on the road you say? What is that, some kind of tradition for them to toss away those they don't want anymore?"

Dwight frowned. "What are you talking about? You sure you haven't had one too many drinks?"

"It's just peculiar," George answered, "not too long ago, they found a gypsy girl along the Blackwood road. The young lord has taken a liking to her. She's been in his house ever si..." George gasped when he was suddenly yanked up by his collar and slammed against the wall. He drew in a frightened breath when he was met with two furious dark eyes.

The man tightened his grip on George's vest and gave him a threatening glare. "What. Did. You. Say?!"