Traveller Probo

When Olivia raised the issue of a social event for Tatae, stressing the invitation of only a select few, Michael brusquely shattered her illusions. He was determined that his wife would not be compelled to meet anyone she did not already know. “Olivia, my God, we can’t do that to her,” he stressed. “I insist on preserving all I can of her innocence.”

“But Michael, this will be only a few. Prince William and Kate for example?” she pleaded.

But Michael would not budge.

When Olivia told Tatae of the discussion about medical treatment for the villagers, much to Michael’s surprise his wife was in favour of accepting help. The Saxon healer recognised her limitations and, after being briefed by Olivia on the treatments suggested, realised that some villagers’ lives could be enhanced through any aid her husband’s strange people considered minor. “The people of Giolgrave would be most grateful, my love,” Tatae suggested gently early one morning as they lay in bed and gazed out at the grey clouds over London. She, more than anyone, appreciated the warmth and luxury they enjoyed while the people of Giolgrave froze in the forest. Michael knew Tatae often felt overawed at the contradictions of his people, especially their vast medical knowledge coupled with the confusing incomprehension of what she considered to be the most basic healing skills.

According to Olivia, the main impediment to any medical mission was the reluctance of the British Government to make any commitment. On one of his visits to their London apartment, Hurley took Michael to one side to discuss matters quietly. “Much as I hate to say it old mate, Olivia might be right this time. If you let a select few meet with Tatae, there’s been talk that this will provide a little of the right influence to move a medical mission forward.”

“Bloody hell Hurley!” exclaimed a frustrated Michael. “You’re talking about bloody blackmail. Tatae’s not a performing animal, she’s a person! We’re trying to help her to heal and get her back home as quickly as possible. Talk about any medical mission is only about leverage.”

“I know mate, I know!” Hurley replied, his palms forward in a placatory gesture, “but this is a decision that’s not easy to put together. We know Tatae likes the idea. There’s still a school of thought that objects to any medical involvement. You know how the world works. Certain influences can make this happen.”

Michael looked up, angrily, “Like Royalty you mean?”

Hurley, never the royalist, just shrugged. “You know how popular Tatae is, or maybe you don’t. She’s up there with Royalty, you know. Well, as far as the media is concerned anyway. In meeting a few of these people, she’s going to help her people receive a little medical attention.” He stopped mid-sentence and looked aghast, “Oh God! That sounds lame, doesn’t it? Since when have I been part of the establishment?”

Michael didn’t reply but felt concerned and more than a little irritated.