Isolde laid the fork and knife across the top of the plate as she sighed in repletion. The three serving staff stood by, beaming at her as she took bite after dainty bite of the sausages and fried potatoes. Nothing she had eaten in her life tasted so close to heaven as the crisp chunks of potatoes seasoned with onions and garlic. Maya had stood at her side, keeping her wine glass filled. Chaya had insisted on adding soft yeasty rolls to her plate even though Isolde held up her hand for her to stop.<br/><br/>Hamish had finally joined her in the meal when she had insisted that she would not dine alone. But now, she sat back in her chair while weariness swept over her. Closing her eyes for just a few seconds was so appealing.<br/><br/>“Isolde!”<br/><br/>“Frau Devereaux!”<br/><br/>Voices shouting her name roused her from slumber.<br/><br/>Isolde smiled at them drowsily,<br/><br/>“I’m so sorry. I’m afraid that eating was more work than I have done in sometime. The wonderful starchy food of the Fatherland went straight to my sleepy button. I’m awake now. Could we go into the sitting room? As much as I admire the bedroom, I find that I am tired of counting the flowers on the wallpaper.”<br/><br/>Before she could make an effort to stand, Hamish had swept her into his arms, preparing to carry her. She put her arms around his neck and smiled sweetly,<br/><br/>“Thank you, Hamish for the good care you have given me, but I am recovered now. Please, allow me to walk and to make my way again. I need to gain strength and being treated like a hothouse orchid will never allow me to thrive like a weeping willow or to stand strong like an oak.”<br/><br/>Gentleman that he was, he restored her to her feet. Isolde patted the lapels of her peach colored dressing gown and then linked her arms with his. Together they went to the lounge  where a merry fire had been laid in the fireplace. Isolde sank gratefully into a cordovan leather chair and Chaya covered her legs with a thick cream colored afghan.<br/><br/>“What news have you had of my cousin? Have you had sight of her? We need to draw up battle plans. As soon as I am well, we will begin the offensive. Hamish, I’m not sure how much magik will help us. I have used magik in the last few months only to have it a backfire in my face over and over. I think there must be a better way, at least for now. Share with me how to strategize in the mortal manner.<br/><br/>You asked if there was anything from my flat that I needed. Yes, dear Hamish, there are two things, One, there is a small diary next to my bed. This is my book of shadows, a book of spells and every day wisdom. I find comfort in writing in it on a daily basis. The other thing is my oil painting equipment. That is in a wooden box in the top of my closet. There is an unfinished painting on a portable easel. If it wouldn't put you in danger and is no great trouble. I would dearly like these items.”