The next day, Countess Anjelica had Bernard bring supplies of food to her new husband, in the hopes that it would lift his spirits to eat something other then the armies meager rations.

The evening after he returned, Anjelica strolled by the kitchen and overheard her now loyal to a fault manservant Bernard, sharing with the other household staff what a poor condition the food supply at the border was in.

The following Day, and everyday for the next week she ordered a wagon full of breads, ale, fowlery and vegetables plucked from her very own land be delivered to the camp, for every solider to share, regardless of stature.

Soon the name of Count Benidicts "Angel" was known throughout the camp. Her name spoken with the highest honor by the weary soldiers. She became a beacon of pure light, reminding the tired men just what it was they were defending. Mascot, if you will.  Not a night went by without a toast to the great 'Lady Angel'.

One afternoon, Angelica's father brought news to his daughter, the same news he had just told Benedict's mother. The Count was on his way, and would be home by dusk.

Soon her mother in law, along with her father were gathered inside, waiting in the parlour. Anjelica longed to greet him at the gates like the many servants but her mother in law was quick to stop her. Deming it inappropriate, and reminding her of proper Countess like ethics.

She heard the approach of his silver steed, Arrow. The clip clop of his hooves, and the cheers of the servants. With a stern look from the elder contessa, Angelica gripped the armrest of her seat, willing herself to be still.

But that resolve was lost the moment he stepped into the room, a slight limp in his gait. His eyes immediately locked onto hers, as if she were a glass of cool water to a dying man in the desert. He was battered and bruised, locks of raven black hair hung unkept around his eyes. She shot out of her chair and ran into his arms. He returned the embrace dearly. "My angel, my sweet sweet angel." He mumbled into her hair, clutching her tightly.