Twelfth Night Episode 1 - "Preparations" Day #5

Viola shifts uncomfortably. The makeshift hiding place that the miller's wife prepared for them was great for hiding. It did that extremely well...however, it did little for life's comforts. The small space pressed in on her and Sebastian. Protruding arms and wooden spokes from the old equipment used to hide them had poked and prodded them all night long and so neither of them had slept much.

Viola looks at Sebastian, annoyance written all over her face. She was a tough girl - she was game to doing whatever it took in life's rougher times - but a few creature-comforts wouldn't have been turned down. In fact, a nice hot bath right now would be amazing. Sebastian, as if reading Viola's mind (that happens with twins more often than either of them would like when they would rather their thoughts be private), grins wolfishly and mock-stretches in the small space as if he is in the lap-of-luxury. He doesn't speak as they had made a pact to not say a word until the miller's wife returned. They dared not risk anything that might give away their secluded spot. That said, Sebastian's actions need no verbal interpretation, and Viola lightly kicks him. He shoots her an incredibly wounded look that almost looks genuine.

At that moment, before either of them can continue their silent sibling-quarrel, they hear the door of tannery creak open and the dim-light of early morning seeps in. Their hearts race...at the one moment hopeful it is the miller's wife returning but also dreading and fearing if it is not. A few light footsteps slide over the floor and then, "It's time to go. The coast is clear and I've arranged a meeting with Captain Shaw, but you must go now."

Sebastian and Viola, with the aid of the miller's wife, extract themselves from their hiding spot and brush themselves off. Viola runs a hand through her hair to try to remove the tangles that have started to form.

The miller's wife smiles at the two of them then leans in and whispers in a low voice, "The city is dangerous right now. Rybald has his men out in force searching for you. Here is how you will get and meet up with Shaw..." She hands them a map (KEY/CODE: 1564 - Shakespeare's birth year). She gives each one a light hug, "Take care, you hear." She opens her mouth as if she wants to say something more but couldn't find appropriate words. She wipes a silent tear, turns, then hesitates. Coming to a decision, she turns back, "I knew your mother when I was but a young woman, you probably didn't know. She was a gem the world was not worthy of and she taught me much. She always knew that you both would be bound for great things. Stay in the shadows, find Shaw...your journey is only beginning. What you both have is special, a unique bond...I daren't think that scum Rybald has a chance against you. Be strong. Be brave. Trust each other and count on Shaw. He is a good man." With that, she turns and leaves without another word.

Viola and Sebastian exchange a look. So much could be communicated in a look. Their gazes both shift to the map. It is time...

To continue with the Quest, click on the image below of the stout-hearted miller's wife.

The Miller's Wife: