Nimue came out the door, sedately with downcast eyes. She was quivering inside as she had heard Maric call to his parents and his sister. What if they didn’t like her? She thought in a panic. What if she wasn’t good enough for Maric? Her hidden fear raised its nasty head to niggle at her. She blessed the Lady for insisting that the acolytes dress well when attending to business at the Tor. The only other dress she had was her blue work gown and it was finely made and clean.<br/><br/>Nimue clasped her hands together, clenching them for support as she made her way to Maric. She stood a little behind him as he celebrated a joyous reunion with the fiery headed beauty he called Talia. Faren and Samantha were enjoying a celebration of their own and most of the armed men had dismounted and were leading their horses to the paddock.<br/><br/>The other paladin, wife and small child had burst from their tents and their cries of joy at seeing their friends filled the air. Nimue stood, small and insignificant among them. The older woman, who faded red hair withstanding, had Maric’s smile and it was she who made eye contact with Nimue first. Her look was somber and appraising, but Nimmie was used to a look like that, for often the Lady would look her over in much the same manner. With a smile and a toss of her head, Nimue stood her ground to see what was required of her.<br/><br/>Several thoughts ran through her head at the same time. Faren had a large bundle tied to his horse’s pommel. If she were truly a knight, she wouldn’t be feeling the fear and inadequacy she felt now. She wanted Layla so she could fly far away and hide. She wanted these people to like her.