It was lost..
All of it.
Falling and fading away, crumbling into chaos and death.
The canons roar, the hiss of sword to sword..
and the cries of dieing men.
It had been an ambush- this much she knew..
and she remembered hearing them shouting.. yelling.. screaming...
"Don't let anyone out of this alive!"
A massacre...
They hadn't the time to defend themselves. It had been in the middle of the knight when the attack had come, all lords and ladies sleeping in their bed.
It was said they slit most of their throats when they slept..
except she...
Somehow she had managed to run.. scrambling.. feebly frantic through the fire and blasts, the ground shaking as she ran.
And then it happened-
and the white light and noise threw her over...
crumpling her to the ground.
Soon men surrounded her..
The canon fire head not killed her..
but the man planned a much worse death for her.
Her parents, she found out, as seh was kicking and screaming as they held her, had already been killed.
When told what was to be done with her..
they threw a bag ove rher head, chained her wrists, then locked her into a cell.
It was barely morning on the third day when they decided to come back to her-
but the fire and fight was still in her eyes, despite herself weakened from where she was chained upon the wall.
Yes..
they had terrible, wicked, horrible plans for her.
In the morning, on light's first breath. she would hang.
But Katahnia would not allow it.
She spat onto the man's face in defiance, demanding he kill her then-
and so he slapped her, but she merely spat a second time, this time drawing blood onto his face.
The man was so upset, he unsheathed his sword and ran her through..
though not enought o kill her...
Weak, tired and finding herself fading.. Katahnia began to crumple, and the man pressed in his sword.
She let out a scream, and all she heard was their laughter.
"Damn you mages!" he cried. "Damn you all to hell!"
More laughter.
"You.. you pretty little one.." he siad, stroking her cheek as she dizzily raised her head to look at him. "You will be the prime example to them all. In the morning, noose around your neck.. strangling infront of all the world to see for your crimes.."
She reached a hand out suddenly, grabbing his collar tight and wheezed, groaning as she tried to find her breath.
"You will not.." she choked. "You will not be the one to kill me. I will.. preserve my parents dreams."
And just like that, her body began to glow.
Growing fearful, the man suddenly backed away, leaving his sword behind s it appeared the woman might explode...
Killing them all with her.
And she did-
except she did not explode in the way one would think she did, but rather incased herself inside impenetrable crystal, and there she remained to this day-
Locked inside her cell, chained to the wall...
Body imprisoned beneath a shell of hard jewel..
and a sword pressing into it- though it was not incased, except the piece that remained lunged into her side...
a peculiar work of art to find...
a peculiar mystery..
and a beautiful myth.
Now the duchy of Harmond was nothing but a dream....
The rain hadn't been so bad at first and Cauwyn's travelers cloak was more than enough to protect him from it. His hood pulled up to guard his head and face while the back draped over his shield and pack. Using the spear in his hand he had decided to pass on through the small village, the people seeming awfully weary of outsiders, not to mention he was a bit short on coin and while he could have afforded a room he thought it best not to flaunt what little money he still had. He could fight, but death had come quickly in the night to many.
It had been a poor choice. Only a few hours out of the town the rain didn't let up, but only grew worse. Cauwyn pulled his cloak tighter around his shoulders and hunched into it, his spear making a rather helpful walking stick as hard soled leather boots clomped through the mud. Then the wind picked up, driving the downpour harder against him and the cold of it biting at his bones. Cauwyn had little choice but to find shelter now, knowing that the woods would not protect him from this kind of weather. He needed someplace dry to start a fire.
And someplace dry he found. His wandering found him to what looked to be an abandoned castle on a hill. He knew little of the battle that had taken place, but he had seen enough to know that this one had not gone the way of the defenders. Climbing loose moss covered rubble it was easy enough to breach the walls and make his way into the keep. Unfortunately the same holes that had provided entrance had also broken down the walls. Large holes now dotted the ceiling from decay joining those caused by cannons and siege engines. He was forced to go lower, down into the dungeons of the keep.
Though it was a bit moldy and musty, dry wood hadn't been too terribly hard to find and soon Cauwyn had a rather pleasant fire going. He'd hung out his cloak and propped his pack against his sword and shield to give it and the armor inside a chance to dry. A couple fat rats and a rather large ferret were skewered almost a foot above the flame where they would cook slowly. When time allowed, cawing actually enjoyed making his food enjoyable beyond that of most travelers. He usually even had a couple of pouches of spices, but they were busy drying with his things.
A quick look around had been enough to tell him the place was safe for the night, but with the heavy patter of rain above Cauwyn found himself growing rather bored. With a large chunk of ferret on his dagger Cauwyn decided to give the place a better look over. It seemed pretty undisturbed, and who knew what treasures he could find.
Strolling down the long hall of the dungeon with a simple torch in one hand and his dagger in the other, still loaded down with meat, he peered into the cells as he passed. Rotting clothes and old bones mostly, and he was ready to turn back when something caught his eye. A sparkle from one of the cells produced something more than he had ever imagined..
"Fuck me.." He whistled at the size of the crystal. It was shaped like a woman, which he found odd though not as odd as the simple seeming sword stuck in it. He frowned, closing the distance for further inspection. His face reflected in the torch light and crystal and he grinned at the way the faucets made him look.
"Who in th' nine hells would put somethin' like this down 'ere?" He looked around, to see if the cell had any special meaning to it, but he saw nothing. He frowned again, looking back at the crystal, "Fuckin' odd place t' keep yer art or treasure.."
There was no way he could carry it back, he knew, but maybe if he just took a piece? He reached out and touched the shackles that bound the crystal lady, rusted and old, and then the sword that lodged its self in the body. It was odd and for a moment Cauwyn considered the thought that it may have been magic, but he quickly dismissed the idea. Why would someone use magic to turn a woman they'd stabbed to crystal if they weren't going to take it with them?
"Huh," Something caught his eye then, a bump on the surface of the face, "is that...is that supposed t' be a tear?" He reached out to touch the crystal. His leather gloves were fingerless allowing his calloused fingers to run over the cool crystal surface.
shhhhhhhhhhnk
A light hiss was heard, then a faint tinkle, and a crack. Then a small piece of the crystal spat towards Cauwyn's face.
And a moment later, another one spat, and another- and soon a spiderweb of cracks began to swell across the massive gem.
For what took just a few seconds of rivets and splits, another second came more of the shell of a jewel to simply split in half, the case exploding and crumbling to the ground, just as the woman was released from time-
Air to breath...
throat to scream...
eyes closed tight as she wailed out in pain, body pressing outwards on the chains that bound her, the shackles of her despair before suddenly she wilted, head drooping as she went still.
But she was still breathing, albeit shallow, as the blood- stabbed into her from ages past, returned to coating her stomach with it's thick, red warmth.
Katahnia had been free...
the crystal magics finally having faded..
and it only took a little bit of anti-magic for the shield to finally break...
and now all that was left of the precious gem was nothing of it at all, but a woman limply breathing as she hung, still chained to the wall.
OOC: I hope this makes sense XD
I be sleepy D:
"Ahck!" Cauwyn shouted it was most certainly a very manly fashion as he fell back away (and onto his ass) from the sputtering, cracking crystal. He watched in amazement and confusion for only a brief moment before he began to realize just exactly what was happening. Magic! Foul, dark, twisted magic had lured him here and then used him! Or at least, that's what made sense to him as his look of shock turned to a rather dark scowl,
"Fuckin' magic!" He hissed the words as he pushed himself off his ass and forward, taking a knee as he watched the gem turn into a woman. He was in the middle of reaching out to touch her when she breathed and then screamed. Again he found himself startled onto his backside with a grunt of displeasure. Not only did he hate magic, he hated when it embarrassed him in front of a pretty girl! Well, pretty as a slave can be with a sword in its gut.
"Hey," The king of wit and charm he was, "hey girly, you alright?" He reached out a somewhat shaky hand and none too gently poked the girl in the forehead. That was sure to impress her he thought with an inward groan and then came forward onto his knees, reaching a bit more gently to hold her head back. His voice, too, had turned more gentle as well as he struggled to keep the frustration and disgust of the magic out of it and filled it with a bit more concern for the injured girl, "Lass? Are you ok?"
When he drew near, she felt weak at first, the world swirling in a dizzy, hot mess around her as she moaned. His voice sounded distant, and close, all at once, even blaring in her ears as she winced, reared back then suddenly realized he was touching her.
Her eyes shot open, wild and green like the sea as she screamed out, suddenly bucking against her restraints.
"Don't touch me! Don't touch me you cad!" her voice echoed, desperate cries and sobbings mixed along with her body as she fought and twisted against the chains, yanking on them, feeling the sword dig deeper into her fresh as she cried ut suddenly, whimpered, groaned and then-
Suddenly..
suddenly she stopped as she realzied...
She was surrounded in ruin.
Breathing, hard and long, her chest heaving with each tempered breath, she slowly, ever so slowly looked all around.
"Oh... my god..." her lips remained open, trembling as her eyes welled with tears.
"It's all..." and her words faded away just as she whispered them.. "....gone."
And suddenly she was beside herself in tears, hanging there and shaking with terrifying sobs as reality settled in....
She had gotten her wish, did she not?
ANd now this-now that she was awakened..
this was her price to pay...
Everything..
everything was destroy, long gone, busted and decayed...
and after a moment Katahnia wilted away, tired and listless as the reality settled over like a shroud of dust, even her eyes seemed to dull in color as she stared out dismally at the world.
"Hey!" Came Cauwyns indignant reply as he jerked his hand back when she shouted at him, his features twisting into a mixture of a scowl and a frown. He most certainly may have been a cad, but she didn't know that! She was in a damn crystal until he showed up! A little bit of gratitude wouldn't kill her..
But then she was crying and Cauwyns scowl all but disappeared. He looked around at the ruin of the dungeon and remembered well the shell of a castle up stairs. If she had any fondness for this place, she was certainly right about it being gone.
"Ah, stop.. Stop movin' about like that.." His frown turned into a look of concern as he saw the sword move about as she writhed and sobbed. He knew she didn't like him touching her, but he decided to bet that she wouldn't like a sword in her more. She was also distressed, which meant she probably wasn't even paying attention to him. Cauwyn hardened his voice, putting a bit of an edge too it though it was only for her own good, "Listen girly, yer gonna gut yourself if you keep on sobbin' like that.."
Maybe it wasn't the gentlest thing, but it was the truth. Without asking for permission first Cauwyn reached forward and placed his left hand on her stomach above the wound, his right one taking up the sword, "Now listen, I'm gonna pull this out. It's pro'lly gonna hurt, but stay still yeah?" And with those reassuring words Cauwyn pulled the blade free, his left hand moving to instantly cover the wound as he tossed the sword away behind him.
SHe only halfed listened, her mind still whirling. But as he drew closer, she began to grow wary of him, if not because of fear, but because she realized what he was about to do. Not that she had much of a choice, gasping when his hand touched her, then quickly hyperventilating before...
Her scream pierced the air, echoing into the dungeon.
Then after a moment, she dropped, then began to shake, tremble as she hyperventilated again, drawing in deep breaths and whimpers as she tried to suppress the pain, but her eyes were plagued with tears and her face, creasing in agony as hot blood began to seep out quickly from the open wound.
The pain had left her suddenly breathless, wordless, and in pain.
OOC: Hrmm I didn't account for one thing..
she's still in chains..
so she's out of her crystal..
but still in her chains.. >>;
*Coughs* by chance to Cauwyn pick locks? XD
Cauwyn held the wound for a moment, waiting to make sure her intestines didn't fall from the wound. When he didn't feel anything Cauwyn slowly pulled his hand away. He frowned at the blood on it or more so the tingle of it where it touched the calloused skin of his fingers. He knew the feeling well, this womans blood held magic. He wiped the hand clean on the skirt of her gown before turning his attention back to her.
"Well, ya won't die. Not right away at least, but we're gonna need t' clean that wound.." He didn't sound very pleased at the idea, though whether it was at the thought of infection or her surviving was unclear. He regarded the girl a moment, and then her chains, before speaking with a small frown, "First I s'pose we'll need t' get ya free.."
A quick glance around didn't reveal a key lying usefully in reach, unfortunately, but he did see his dagger. He picked up the thick blade, pulling off the meat that had fallen into a puddle of rather filthy water. He considered eating it anyway for a moment, but with fresh meat on his fire he tossed it aside and moved closer to her chains.
"Now, if'n ya want t' keep your hands ya should probably stay pretty still.." And with that Cauwyn started to pick away at the pin that locked the shackles in place. It wasn't easy and he grunted and cussed under his breath, but the pin eventually started to move.
OOC:
He wouldn't be much of a brigand if he couldn't! Though for more delicate work, he's more of a hammer kinda guy! :]
Katahnia, though still wary, watched the man work with interest.
So he was going to help her escape?
A few quick breaths escaped her before she paused, held her chest out, breath in and remained as still as the dead...
Though the moment she felt he chains give way-
her breath was released, as well as a scream, as her arms fell limply, useless and sore after being hung for so long as the poor girl completely collapsed on top/ towards of him-
legs still chained at the rear.
OOC: Hey Cauwyn- CATCH! XD
OOC: Best game of catch... ever!!
IC:
"Almost... just.. Here we, fuckin'... come on ya bitch.." Cauwyn grumbled to himself as he worked the blade against the cuffs. The metal was old and rusting, which was both good and bad for what he was doing. He was so focused on his work he wasn't even paying attention to the girl, or the position they were both in with him pressed right against her. Probably a bad choice as the pin finally broke free and Cauwyn raised his dagger in triumph, "Ha-ha!"
And then she fell against him. Cauwyns balance was thrown off when he was hit with her. Though she wasn't heavy in the least, she was practically dead weight he hadn't been expecting and as she fell forward he struggled to catch her, tossing his dagger aside to do so. His arms wrapped around her as they both fell backwards, briefly knocking the air from Cauwyn with an "Oomph!"
It took a moment for him to catch his breath and realize what had happened. He looked past her at the chains on her feet and briefly considered the fact he probably should have started there. As his attention returned to her, and the way they were laying however, a rather wolfish grin spread across his face.
"I know yer grateful girl," He said with a cocksure attitude and as best of a confident shrug as he could manage from his back with her on top of him, "but maybe ya should save th' reward until after yer free an' cleaned up?" His wolfish grin only grew as he tucked his hands up behind his head, which was a bit sore, and eyed her pointedly, "O'course, if'n ya can't wait, I'm more than happy t' take it now.."
Yes, they would find themselves in an awkward predicament, her weak limbs thrown across him, her hair and scent falling over her chest as she lay there a moment, cheek pressed against his body and breathed. It wasn't until she felt him moving that she stirred, still dizzy from her new found freedom and her limbs, still useless from their chains. Though as she lifted her head, she stared at him, appalled by his statement and, despite her limbs being useless, she struck a hand across his face, though it was weak and pathetic attempt that, after the fact, rendered her useless as she fell back onto him with a frustrated cry, face now buried into the crook of his neck.
"I'll have you know I'm a lady and your words are most certainly unacceptable!" she spat the words hotly against his neck, tryin her limbs out only to wince as the prickly sensation returned to them- blood beginning to flow..
and also, as she moved again, she winced, collapsing yet again, as she recalled the fresh blood and pain of the wound on her side. THen, after a moment of realizing, she groaned, then requested.
"If you'd please unchain my legs..." she finally found the strength to push herself up, hair, once beautiful and gold, like the morning sunrise, now hung in dirty, untamed loose curls about her equally dirty and tired face.
Cauwyn expected the smack and though she was rather weak, it still stung a bit as she caught him across the cheek. He flashed her a quick scowl, though it was only half-hearted, but couldn't keep it long as she fell back against him practically nestled against his neck. A deep inhale through his nose did get him quite the scent and despite the dirt and her disheveled appearance, she did smell much nicer than the women he was used too..
"Yeah yeah.." Cauwyn grumbled, his hands unpillowing from behind his head to gently but firmly grip her waist. He considered briefly pushing her to the side but then, with a rather wry grin, decided it would be a much better idea to wiggle his way out from underneath her by going strait up. The effect was somewhat lost when she was able to raise herself up before being dragged over his waist, but he still was chuckling anyways, "Of course, m'lady.." His tone, while still light hearted, was a bit mocking.
As he crawled about on hands and knees he found his dagger with a victorious smirk and then turned, leveling the blade and a mocking yet reproachful glare at her, "Ya know, for a woman chained t' a wall in a dungeon with a cad such as myself, ya sure do make a lot of demands.."
That being said Cauwyn did still crawl around behind her and start working away on the chains holding her feet, speaking more to her this time than simply grumbling to himself, "An don't go gettin' all pissy with me either, girly. I coulda just left ya in here.. Or, ya know, hacked ya up and sold bits of ya for a nice room at an inn. A hot meal, a nice ale, a soft bed an' a softer woman t' share it with.." He paused in both his work and rambling speech to take a sniff of himself. He smelled like damp road and sweat, not nearly as pleasant as she had smelled. He returned to working the pin free of the cuffs on her feet as well as adding to his list, "A bath, definitely... Maybe a girl t' share that with too.."
Katahnia couldn't believe the crassness of this man! Not only was he insulting her, but he was adding salt to that injury as she merely stared at him, appalled.
"Well, I suppose you will have your time soon enough," she replied haughtily, weakly slicking her wild locks out of her face as they sealed against her damp hair. "Now, if you'd hurry up and just unchain me.." she said, words nearly between her teeth as she tried to keep her temper in check- after all, she wasn't free of his clutches, or the chains, just yet.
And well..
she didn't like him having his hands all over her legs, with her ripped skirts hanging a bit too immodestly across them.
"Would you like t' come back 'ere an' do this?" Cauwyn snapped at the woman, not in the least liking her tone. After all, he was here helping her! He could just as easily have went back to his campfire or worse.. With one leg freed he crawled across her to the other which put them in a somewhat compromising position. He didn't mind it of course, but he could only imagine what haughty things the girl would have to say next.
As he worked against the other cuff though, he started to feel bad for his outburst. Or, outburts really. He sighed heavily and the clanging slowed as he started to speak again. This time though, his tone was a lot softer and quieter, just loud enough to be heard over the clanging and scraping of metal on metal, "Look it, girly, I'm not gonna hurt'cha ok? I was just kiddin' around and...." He sighed and then swallowed his pride, reminding himself that he was trying to be a better person, "..and I'm sorry ok? I'll get'cha outta this an' then I'll take a look at yer..." He paused for a moment, considering that it might be easier on the scared girl if he spoke a bit more proper. Ladies were like that, snobbish, he knew, "your wound, ok?"
OOC: See? Cauwyn can be nice.. sometimes.
Katahnia made a noise, face burning as he positioned himself rather lewdly before her. She squeaked a few times, but her prudence kept her tongue to a squeak and her face, the similar color of a beet.
Setting her jaw, she glared at him defiantly, a fire brewing in her eyes like a raging sea. But then, as he slowed, she released a breath, almost a snort..
and was about to reprimand him for halting his transgressions upon the lock when he apologized. She found her eyes widening at that, and her cheeks, burning hotter still.
"You won't have to see to my wounds, or to me, even, after all of this. I can handle this on my own," she huffed, and the same pesky piece of hair fell into her face, forcing her to slick it back again as she remained glaring and haughty.
Her attitude wasn't helping his noble intentions any, but he did his best to keep to the high rode. Instead of snapping, his voice remained even and calm as he worked at the cuff, "Is that so? A moment ago ya...you were barely able t' smack me. As it is, you can barely keep yer, your, self up! And trust me when I say, I know a thing or two 'bout wounds, ok?"
The pin came out with a clang and the last cuff came free. Cauwyn smiled, reveling in his own triumph for a brief moment before he backed away from the girl slowly on his hands and knees. Once there was space between them he held up his hands, lightly holding the dagger, to show he meant what he said, "Look, see there? Yer, you are, free.. See. I'm gonna put this away now.." Maybe he was speaking a little slower than he needed to, but the last thing this girl needed was to go running off with that open wound. Cauwyn slowly slid the dagger into the sheath on the belt that cinched his still damp tunic against him.
"There, now.." He slowly started lowering his hands back to the ground, "I have fire and some food.. I'm willin' to share both with ya," He cleared his throat with a bit of a frown as he still stumbled over a few words, "..with you, if you'll let me clean an' stitch that wound for you.."
After Katahnia was free, and the man, away from her, she remained bent over, barely having enough support to keep her torso raised. Her arms were burning as feelings were returning, the blood almost all there, but her legs.. they were still numb and useless as she gave way to a groan.
She barely heard what he was saying, feeling sick and dizzy from all the torment and chaos she had been forced to endure but a moment ago...
but to the world, it was far, far a lot of years.
After a moment, she shivered, cleaning her teeth as she tried to fight back tears.
But pride kept her strong enough so she wouldn't collapse, and she found just enough pained strength to push herself up so she could now lean back against the jail cell bars.
Keep her head up, she closed her eyes a nd sighed, her breathing still deep ad shallow as a delicate hand rested over the gaping bleeding wound at her side.
She began to feel feverish, and..
despite all of it, the flicks of magics in her body that she tried to summon- became choked out, and were not there...
She couldn't heal herself.
A tear slid down from her eyes, making it's way slowly down her cheek as she remained pressed and silent within her cell.
No, she didn't want to eat, despite being famished.
No, she couldn't run away, despite the desire.
No, she didn't want his help with her wound, despite she needed it...
No, she even had no where to go...
Cauwyn watched her quietly as she forced herself to the bars. Despite the perceived slight at her refusal of his help, he showed the girl no anger. The way she crawled, as exciting as it could have been, hardly registered to him at all. It was her will that had him most captivated. Her sheer will to live and to do so on her own terms. He both respected and admired it, though he also realized how foolish she was being. Cauwyn watched her quietly for a moment, trying to formulate a plan in his head. When nothing came rushing to mind he decided to go with what worked for him, winging it.
On hands and knees still he crawled over to her, though he kept a respectful enough distance that either of them would have to lunge to touch each other. For his own safety as much as hers. Cauwyn sat back on his heels in a low squat, resting his hands over his knees.
"Lookit," He started with a slightly frustrated groan, "I know this is gotta be rough for you... Well, I don't exactly know how rough, can't even imagine really, an' I still don't even know what's goin' on so I can't tell ya I get it... but I do get this. Ya need help, an' as far as I can tell I'm all ya got down here.." He cast a quick look around to make his point, though there was no venom in his words, "An' gathern' by the way ya talk, I'm guessin' you wasn't always in this dungeon 'fore this castle fell. Now, I know I ain't no prince or nothin', but what I am is a decent cook an' good at stitchin' up wounds.."
He stood slowly now, his knees popping and groaning from the cold and damp. As he stood above her looking down he held out both hands to her, "So, ya can either sit there cryin' against that cold wall.... Or, ya can come warm up by a fire an' eat somethin' t' help get your strength back, after we seal up that gut wound.." He shrugged slightly and then flashed his best boyish grin, "What's yer choice, m'lady.." This time the word was said without any animosity.
Katahnia remained there, still steadily breathing before raising her eyes to look at him. She was worse for wear, and too exhausted to put up much more of a fight than she had..
then after a time, she lowered her gaze.
"I'm too exhausted to either argue or agree," she added softly though after a moment, she found the strength to look around at their surroundings, a sadness and longing in her eyes.
"It all fell.."s he said after a time. "All of it.." Sighing, she closed her eyes a moment to compose herself, before opening them to look over at her.. well, current companion.
"I suppose thank yous are in order,"s he said, staring at him for a moment, her face and expression, a bit softer, if still tired, than earlier. "My name is Katahnia." she offered, the name- the offering of it anyways, a symbol of truce. "Thank you for helping me."
After all, he wasn't her enemy, despite her fieriness against him.
Then sighing, she hung her head.
"I feel too ill to eat,"s he admitted. "And I don't think I can walk just yet." She sighed, frustratedly at her predicament, but in the same breath, she wouldn't have tried, even given the choice. She was exhausted and could have just let herself fallen away to sleep right there in the dark ruins of her cell.
"And no.." She replied, finally staring back over him, affording him a weak grin. "I wasn't always down here." Tired, she let her smile fade away as she leaned her head back, closing her eyes and winced, hands pressing over her warm wound as she cringed.
"Katahnia huh? Pretty name.." Cauwyn said with a smile. After a short moment lost looking down at her he blinked and then grinned, somewhat embarrassed, "Oh, and I'm Cauwyn by the way.. Sorry 'bout that.."
"Well, two weak to eat or not ya need too, princess.." Cauwyn said with a hint of the wry grin from earlier. She seemed to be coming around to him, which in his mind meant he could go back to being himself. He'd already stopped trying to talk all high-born, might as well bring back the jokes too right? "And ya certainly can't sit around in here so... up ya go." And with that Cauwyn unceremoniously lifted the weakened girl up off the floor and into his arms.
Dead weight isn't exactly the easiest thing to lift, no matter how strong you are. So while it might have been more romantic to hold her gently in his arms in front of her, it wasn't exactly practical. He realized this by the time he made it out of the cell, the whole while jostling her and trying to keep her from falling. Finally in the hall he'd had enough and with a small grunt and a mumbled "Sorry 'bout this.." He went from knightly arm hold to slinging her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Conscious of her wound however, Cauwyn made sure to keep her waist low enough against him that the wound pressed against his chest rather than the top of his shoulder. It was still a bit of a strain, but at least with his arms wrapped around her this way his forearm became a bit of a seat for her. And, ya know, he could see her ass too. Though he was wise enough not to mention that part as he carried her back to his fire.
OOC: ANd he keeps staring at her ass and walks into a wall since he's distracted.. *snickers*
yeah I could see that happening *snicker snicker*
IC:
At his comments, she was too exhausted to protest, but when he suddenly picked her up, she made a noise and a slight struggle-
"What are you doing- Cauwyn!" she yelped, finding herself throwing her arms around him, lest she fall and begrudgingly had her face a bit too close to his for comfort. It was a rather unladylike predicament indeed, but after a moment, she sighed in a huff, remaining quiet and flushed, but realizing she had little choice as she bit her tongue.
But after a time, even she could feel the strain of him and suddenly, with a yelp, she was tossed over his shoulders.
"CAUWYN!"s he shouted, and beat lightly against his back, moving her legs as the sensation of pins and needles began to take over for when they had once been numb.
"PUT ME DOWN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?"
Yes, despite the necessity, even this was too uncivilized for her taste!
OOC: Couldn't resist! *grin*
IC:
"Ack! Hey," Cauwyn squirmed, completely taken off guard by the girls sudden struggling. Not because he was looking at her ass though! Cauwyn forced himself to hold on, grunting with frustration as she beat against his back and kicked her legs. It didn't really hurt, she was much too weak for that, but it did make things more difficult, "stop that! Ya keep that up I'm gonna set ya down on yer face! Or your ass!" After he said it he considered that he may have gotten the threat backwards, but it didn't matter. His concentration went back to holding onto the kicking screaming woman on his shoulders.
They couldn't get to the fire soon enough for his taste and though he most certainly wanted to drop her, he knew better than that. So he went to kneel by the fire and gently set her upon his somewhat damp but rapidly drying sleeping roll. And it would have gone rather smoothly too, had she not been struggling so much. But she was and so instead of taking a graceful knee, Cauwyn just fell to one knee. Against the stone floor. Which hurt pretty bad. Bad enough for him to let out a rather loud "Fuck!" that echoed from the walls. Bad enough for him to lose balance and hold of her at the same time, falling forward as he did so until now they were both on the ground this time with their roles reversed.
For a brief moment, a very brief one, when the pain in his knee subsided enough that he realized his face was buried between her breasts Cauwyn considered not moving. It seemed like the best option really to him, even though he was immediately throwing himself backwards and off of the girl.
With a mixed look of shock at what had happened and pain from his knee which he held with one hand, Cauwyn immediately threw a finger at Katahnia, "That was your fault, just so ya know!" Just like a true gentleman..
"But this is not very civilized!" she protested, still squirming and then....
down they went, into a world of suddenly chaos.
Her eyes wide in shock.
With his face buried with her breast, the world seemed to halt still. ANd slowly, ever so slowly, the burn on her face grew.
She let out a scream suddenly and sat up.
"Don't blame that on me!" she replied, shrill and defensive. "Just.. just stay over there and.."s he winced, eyes blinking back tears as she suddenly doubled over, gripping at the pain and blood at her side.
"Aww, shit! Sorry.." Cauwyn realized he'd apologized to this girl more times than he think he'd ever done in his life! Still, he did feel bad about it and maybe blaming that on her hadn't been the smoothest move ever, even if it was true. When she doubled over in pain though, he forgot all about blame and finger pointing, scrambling instantly to her side despite the throbbing in his knee.
"Here, here," He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, holding her close. His other hand moved down to pry away her hands so he could see the wound, his words soft and a lot more gentle than someone would think he was capable of, "Hold on now, shhh shh shh.. You're ok, you'll be ok.."
He frowned at the wound, it had torn more due to his carelessness. He cursed himself while easing her back onto the sleeping role, his words still soft and gentle, "Here you go, just lie back. You'll be ok, shh shh.. You'll be ok.."
As soon as she was back he scrambled around her and over to his gear. From a large pouch on his belt he pulled out a slightly smaller pouch made of rabbit fur, and a small vial with peculiar looking leaves in it before returning to her side. He sat his things beside him, except for the vial with the leaves. He pulled the rubber stopper and then shook out one of the leaves into his hand. He didn't know exactly how much the girl could handle, especially on an empty stomach, but she was obviously in pain and for whatever reason that seemed to be stressing him more than anything else at the moment.
"Here," He held the leaf out to her, "take this.. Just chew it, ok? Don't swallow.. It'll take away the pain ok? If it starts makin' ya sick spit it out, but not before it numbs some of that pain alright?"
SHe didn't like being tended to like a child and shushed, but couldn't fight it for she was dizzy in pain. Then, staring at the leaf, she looked up at him questionably.
"I have magics.. I could..heal myself.. I.." but she winced, realizing.. with a sigh as she resigned herself. "I'm too weak to have them work.." she groaned, closing her eyes, but she had yet to accept the pro-offered help, finding herself too weak and weary from the raging fever.
OOC: Sorry it's short XD
Cauwyn made a face when she mentioned her magic. He'd hoped he was wrong about her, but it seemed not. Even still, witch or not, he couldn't very well let her the girl die. She was right though about being weak and as Cauwyn looked at the wound again and then back to her, he realized he didn't have much of a choice in the matter. He needed to act quickly.
"Well, I aint got no magic but what I do have will do th' trick.. At least until yer strong enough to..." He made a face as if he'd tasted something bitter, gesturing vaguely to her wound, "heal yourself.."
With the leaf in the palm of his hand he used his fingers to crush it down until the milky white sap inside coated the leaf. And then, without much concern for what he knew was surely going to be yet another argument, he reached down and pinching her lip between finger and thumb pulled it out enough to pack the leaf against the inside of her gums.
"Just hold on, princess.." He said with a mixture of the concern he felt for her safety and his frustration at her continued stubborn nature, "this'll take that edge off..." He watched her to make sure she didn't swallow the opiate or pass out. If she passed out at least he could work in peace though..
Katahnia raised her head to look at him weakly, and did not fight, though visibly flinched as he approached. When the leaf was pressed inside her mouth, she appeared to gag a little, and almost wretched but shivered back into a recession before she found herself accidently swallowing some of the drug and growing numb.
It was potent, enough to numb her mouth instantaneously as her mind whirled as she groaned. She only had a fragment of an idea of what he was about to do, lifting her blue-green eyes towards him curiously, although weary.
"Shit.." Cauwyn groaned as he saw a bit of the leaf disappear down the back of her throat. He reached his finger back into her mouth and began scooping out the rest of the leaf as best he could. His hands probably weren't the cleanest thing but it was better than the girl slipping off into a coma and death. With the way her eyes looked he doubted she'd notice anyways. And that his chidings were lost on her, though he said them anyways, "I'm pretty sure the first thing I told ya was not t' swallow the damn thing princess!"
Like a true gentleman he wiped the bits of saliva soaked leaves off on his pants instead of her dress, because he was classy like that, and reached down for the rest of what he had brought. The girl was already weak and loopy, add that to the drugs and he was sure she was as numb as she was going to get.
Cauwyn popped the wooden stopper on the vial of clear liquid, the smell of the potent grain alcohol immediately filling the surrounding area. When he looked to the wound a new question arose. How exactly was he supposed to get to the wound? Did he tear the dress, to which he was no doubt sure he would be listening to her screeching when things were said and done? Or, did he simply push the dress up and risk her wrath if she came too during the procedure? With the alcohol in hand he chanced another look at the girls eyes, which seemed fairly loopy, and then back to the wound barely visible through the blood soaked dress.
"Fuck, Cauwyn.. What have you gotten yer fool self into?" He groaned and then decided. Better to hope for a quick pass than dread a coming storm. Cauwyn reached down with his free hand and, gripping the hem of her dress, began pushing the material up over her body. He tried to maintain some form of professionalism, but honestly what guy could resist? His eyes slipped from her face, over the wound, and down farther.
He broke out into a broad grin and had to stifle a bit of a chuckle when he noticed the silky, lacy panties adorning the girl. Maybe she wasn't as boring as he thought, Cauwyn considered, but quickly changed his mind. High-borns like her enjoyed finer things, she was probably just as stuck up and prudish as he considered.
That little issue solved Cauwyn leaned over and, whispering first, "This might sting a bit, princess.." he poured a generous amount of the grain alcohol across the wound to disinfect it. Then, pulling his needle and thread from the rabbit skin pouch he'd brought, he poured a bit over that too before he set about stitching the wound closed.
Katahnia was, for the most part, so far gone to the drug she had almost wilted away in his hand, completely unable to discern that he was lifting up her skirts.
But then-
the burn of the alcohol came, as did her scream-
it pierced the air, her body jerking forward before suddenly...
She collapsed, fainting dead away....
OOC: lol, if she remembers he will SO get an ear full later!
DX
XD just sayin'~
and sorry these posts are short but...
there's not too much she can do I suppose XD *shrug*
OOC: No worries! There really wasn't too much you could do with an unconscious girl! I figure we could just fast-forward until morning?
When Katahnia passed out Cauwyn released a heavy sigh of release. And also a fart which he'd been holding, but that hardly mattered. His hands slowed down to work more deftly and in no time the wound was stitched closed in a most professional manner. Though he had few fond memories of his childhood, he could not deny the lessons he learned had been valuable ones.
Cauwyn eyed the sleeping girl for a bit, her dress and yes the panties again. A few thoughts ran through his head and he couldn't deny that a part of him wanted very badly to entertain some of those base ideas. He reminded himself again, however, that that part of his life was over with now. Reluctantly he pulled Katahnia's dress back down as best he could.
He stayed by her side for a brief time, mostly collecting up his things and making sure his bone needle was cleaned and the stoppers replaced on the vials, though he did spend more than a few moments eyeing the passed out girl beside him. Her dress was ruined, sliced open and stained with blood. Cauwyn looked at his pack and then down at his own clothes with a heavy sigh. He knew the right thing, it was just really inconvenient..
Still, he stood and made his way to his things on the other side of the fire pulling off his simple cotton tunic as he went. Next came the boots followed by the pants, which wound up on the ground next to him with the tunic, leaving him standing in the nude only a handful of feet from the girl he'd found in the cage. He untangled his pile of things and began the process of donning his armor. First the quilted jerkin and breaches, then the hardened plates of molded dark leather armor.
Once he was covered he picked up his clothes and shook them the best he could to get the grime of the road off of them despite their dampness. Once they were as clean as he could get them he carefully folded them into a ball and sat them between Katahnia and the fire, close enough to her that she would know what he was getting at. Still grumbling though, as his new found nobility had brought up yet another great idea, Cauwyn then pulled out his heavy traveling cloak. She already had his bedroll and in the morning his clothes, why not his cloak too? Looking non-to-pleased with himself Cauwyn draped the cloak over the sleeping girls form, tucking the hood close to her head for use as a pillow.
With her comfort taken care of, at his own expense he might add, Cauwyn settled down next to his things beside the fire. He knew the girl would be warmer, much warmer, if they were simply to lie naked together and share the warmth of their bodies. They wouldn't even have to do anything! But he knew well enough that if she were to wake up to that, he would probably wouldn't be so lucky.. And so, grumbling, he settled down on the cold, damp stone floor of the dungeon and with his shield as a pillow closed his eyes for some much needed sleep.
Before he could drift off however a new smell assaulted him. It was rank and musty and forced his eyes open. He looked down at his armor, which he treated specifically for this and was baffled a moment until he realized it was the quilted jerkin beneath the armor. It had gotten wet and now he was paying yet another price for the strange girl he had just met.. He shot Katahnia a rather dark glare for while until his anger was sated enough for him to drift off into sleep. He was really starting to regret rescuing this damsel..
OOC: He *would* dream about sleeping with her nakedly! XP
JUST SAYING
IC:
The dreams were far and few. Soft fragments of lace, a dress.. and golden air. A castle so proud, and a lady so fair..
a people with so much hope..
but so far.. and so few...
Shivering, as she recalled, somewhat, of the terror she endured, she slept, after that, peacefully until the next morning when she awoke. Slowly, her eyelids lifted, heavily at first as she arose with a grogg-ied strength.
Moaning, she pressed the heel of her hand against her eyes and wiped at the sleep that was there. Another moan had her furrowing her face and pinched the bridge of her nose. Her head was pounding.
It was only after a moment she noticed the cloak over her body and slowly looked down at it, then to the clothes set beside her, before her green eyes slowly moved over towards Cauwyn.
Then, pushing the cloak down, she looked down at her wound. It still hurt but..
her fingers pressed over the stitch work, before she turned frantically, lookign over at his sleeping form.
HEr eyes softened, lips twitching into a soft smile.
Then slowly, ever so slowly, she pushed herself off of the ground, only when she had gotten to her feet, she hadn't realized..
and suddenly she fell over with an
'Ommph!' as she landed on top of Cauwyn, body spilling over his chest.
Curse her legs for being so wretchedly sore!
OOC: looool...
OOC: Lol, poor Cauwyn!
IC:
Terror gripped him as the foul scents of war filled his nostrils.
Acrid smoke from the fires, the copper of blood mingling with piss and shit on a muddy ground.
Screams and battlecrys filled his ears over the clash of steel on steel.
Always the ringing of steel..
He was running, swinging his sword.
He could feel the blows landing upon his shield.
He could feel the whiz of arrows zipping by.
Cauwyn had never been very good at sleep. As a young boy in a mercenary camp, you slept lightly and with one eye open. Even after the exhaustion of a battle he had to stay alert to the threat of a dagger in the dark. Even now, as the nightmare ran it's course and he made soft grunting noises in his sleep he was alert to danger, or so he thought. The soft, quiet movements of a woman were a lot different than the lumbering footsteps of a man.
So when Katahnia fell upon him it took him completely by surprise! His eyes shot open with a start as he inhaled a sharp startled breath. One arm instinctively hooked its self around her, pinning her body to his chest as his other groped for his sword or a dagger. Neither of which were nearby and so his hand immediately went to her head making a tight fist in her hair. As the foreign dungeon and the girl against him started to sink in his thrashing slowly eased into a halt.
He blinked a few times, trying to get his bearings, as he stared at the lovely girl atop of him. There were worse ways to awaken and his sleep addled brain struggled to put together what was happening. He couldn't help himself and that wolfish grin returned to his lips.
"So am now I getting that reward?" He asked somewhat groggily, though the humor in his words were much more apparent than they had been the first time he'd asked that question. It took a bit of willpower, but his arm slowly released it's grip of his body and his fist uncurled from her hair. He held both arms out to his sides as best he could, palms up to show the girl he meant no harm.
Katahnia gave a start and gasp as her body was gripped suddenly by Cauwyn and she found herself, a prisoner within his arms.
but as his mind and eyes registered her and he adorned that wretched grin, her face contorted in abhorrence.
"You're a pig for implying!" she said, pushing herself off of his chest, eyes stinging as they looked at him. "I fell over my own legs." She pushed herself off the ground, giving a sniff and smoothing her hands down her ripped skirts, keeping as much pride lifted upon her head as she could as she pushed away.
"I take it it was easier to work on those stitches with me asleep," she stated, her back to him as she walked away, eyes angrily scanning the area, arms folded across her chest before she looked back towards him, expecting an answer.
He rubbed what sleep he could from his eyes as she climbed off of him, grin changing from wolfish to smug rather easily. He twisted and stretched on the ground, the leather of his armor and his own joints and muscles creaking with the action of it until he finally settled down with a heavy and contented sigh. His eyes returned to the woman and he had to force himself not to chuckle at the haughty tone or the demanding look in her eyes as she glared back at him from over her shoulder.
"Aye, it was much easier I think..." He said with a small half smile before actually setting up, "for the both of us.. Ya were pretty out of it, princess." And knowing where her mind was going Cauwyn instantly threw up a cautionary hand, his other being used to hold him up, "An' before ya get all yellin' at me, nothin' happened. I was th' perfect gentleman, promise.."
Katahnia had kept her pride rather well, as well as somewhat, her temper.
But at his last comment, her eyes widened, pupils shrinking as she stared at him, never having concieving that he could have...
"Oh, you wretch!" she cried, fetching whatever was closest to her, his clothes, and tossed them angrily at his head.
"I should be thanking you for the help, but also thanking you if you would.." suddenly, a crumbling was heard over head, her face shooting up as dust came down upon her, the support beams over head suddenly deciding to give way at the exact moment the poor girl was about to explode upon him with rage..
and now all she could do was stand there, frozen, and shield herself as heavy stones began to break and fall towards them both- weights meaning to crush.
Cauwyn looked at her with wide eyes, though he couldn't keep the smile from his face. Why was she yelling at him now? All he told her was that he hadn't done anything to her! Why the hell was she angry about that? When she threw the clothes he batted them away easy enough, away from the coals of the fire. Cauwyn was half sitting, half crouched when the dust sprinkled down on Katahnia. Followed by a groan from the ceiling.
While she looked up, Cauwyn just bolted forward. He was in an awkward position, but he still managed to get his feet beneath him well enough to lunge. Rocks, wood and debris tumbled down about them as Cauwyn rapped her up in his arms. He landed with on his back with a grunt, shielding her from that impact, and then rolled immediately to cover her body with his own, his hands curling up to shield her face in head instead of his own.
It had all happened so fast and before she new it he was lunging for her, tumbling with her as rocks pelted around them while dust swelled the air.
She had gone unharmed, though as the dust settled, coughing as air returned to her lungs, she found herself merely staring up at him in wide eyed shock.
After a moment, she gave a haughty snort.
"And I suppose you think I owe you for this, too..." She hotly... jested? Giving another huff, she looked up at him, coughing again, this time a bit more concern and worry furrowing upon her face. "Are you alright?"
It would be unlady like for her NOT to inquire.. after all..
he had rescued her.. how many times now was it?
Well, at least, technically only twice.. though three times if you counted the stitches.
Cauwyn coughed and sputtered as the dust settled around him. It was a painful thing and so he forced himself to stop and to breathe slowly. He shifted slowly and several rocks tumbled away. While most were small the biggest one was the size of a mans head. When Katahnia made her statement about wanting a reward for that too, grinning was all he could do to keep from glaring. Or crying maybe. He was really beginning to regret saving this woman.
Still, he panicked a little and forced himself to create some space between them, if only he could look her over. Bearing his weight on his elbows Cauwyn brushed at her hair and checked out what he could. She didn't look too bad off at least.
"I'm fine.." He groaned finally, somewhat moved by her tone. He considered not even telling her he was injured, but he figured she was likely to notice. Cauwyn sat up, unpinning her from beneath him, and tentatively reached behind him to feel his side. A push brought pain, but it wasn't unimaginable. Probably just bruised, he decided, and forced a confident smile, "Really. Though, if we could hold off on that reward for a while.." He said with a slight chuckle between pained breaths, the chuckle it's self making him wince.
Still he pushed himself up and brushed the loose dirt and gravel away as best he could before holding his hands down to her once again, "An' what about you princess? You alright? How's that stomach?"
Katahnia took his hands, eyes never leaving his as she was pulled to her feet.
"I'll live," she simply told him, a smile twitching on her lips before she looked away, staring at the rubble around them. "And princess is hardly my title." She informed him, stepping out and away, careful not to fall this time, though her legs were still sore.
Turning back to him, she let out a sigh.
"I suppose, as the last living blood line in my family, you could call me duchess." Her lips curled to a smile then, eyes a bit soft as she pressed light fingers over her side, then, staring down at the wound as she touched it,she smiled again, fingers idly tracing across the ripped fabric.
Then, back to him she studied...
"Are you sure you're alright?"
Cauwyn was able to help her up without to much of a pain, though he couldn't hide the wince at the corners of his eyes. He tried to support her as she stepped her way around the rubble, but before he could do any real help she'd stepped away chastising him about how she wasn't a princess. Cauwyn grumbled under his breath as he started making his way back toward his things, "Coulda fooled me.."
When she introduced herself as a duchess though, that caught his attention. So much so that he almost fell twisting to look at her. He wobbled slightly but caught himself, his hand instinctively going to his injured side, though he tried his best to play it off, "A duchess huh? That's like a queen or somethin', yeah? So that's higher then a princess?" Great, that's just what she needed.. More ego..
"Bah, I'm fine.." He gave her dismissive wave of his hand, the one not holding his ribs, "Just a bruise. I'll be right as rain in a day or two.."
She frowned and studied him.
"But it wouldn't be right to have you suffer," she told him, studying his face before realizing it and turning away. "Especially under my account," tucking her hair aside, she moved towards him. It might have been foolish but..
she felt strong enough to at least try as she approached him, slowly..
reaching a hand out and touching him, wincing as she sensed the pain..
then a golden light emitted from the palm of her hand and glittering through her fingers.
He'd feel a swell of warmth within him, gathering in a swirl, then outwardly it went, lapping through his body and numbing away the pain.
She gasped lightly, smiling even at the use of her magics. It was always a tickling, thrilling sensation to see it at work. A marvel.
"There.."she said, stepping back. "All better by magic."She smiled at him before suddenly collapsing towards the ground.
OOC: woops! Cauwyn isn't affected by magic really..
IC:
Cauwyn had been busy brushing rock off his gear and only was half-listening to the princess. Or duchess, whatever. So he hardly noticed when she approached him. At that range though, he felt the familiar tingle along his skin that caused the short hairs of his arms and neck to stand on his. An almost involuntary twitch ran through his system. He stood upright and turned quickly, but he knew he was too late. If he could sense the magic, he knew it was almost a matter of time until she hit him with it.
Cauwyn wasn't completely immune to magic, but he was very damn resistant. The feeling of it coursing through his body, targeting his ribs to draw away the pain, could almost have been pleasant had he been able to feel it better. What he did feel though was the inky crawl of magic over his body and it twisted his stomach slightly. As the girl stepped back to admire her work, cawing prepared a sneer and a scathing remark about her using magic on him without asking. It didn't come though as Kalahnia fell weakly toward the ground.
"Gah!" Cauwyn lunged for her, which hurt like hell by the way, just barely getting a hold of her upper arms before she landed in the rubble. With the throbbing in his side though and the sudden movement, he couldn't hold her so he lowered her as gently as he could before letting go. He snapped back his arm and hand curling protectively around his rib as he struggled to breathe, "Idiot girl!" He hissed between sharp angry breaths.
He hadn't exactly calmed, but he managed to take most of the heat and edge out of his voice as he turned his attention down to Kalahnia, speaking between short controlled breaths, "Magic... doesn't work... on me.." He sighed with the effort, but took another deep breath before continuing, "Thank you...though, for... trying. Are you... alright?"
She laughed, and laughed sad as she came to realize she had wasted her strength.
"Well, this is interesting.."s he said weakly, staring up at him with a tired smile. "To think I was rescued by a mordecai."
She furrowed his brows at his claims.
"I'll.. I'll be fine," she began, hesitantly. She slowly, drew in a breath and raised her head.
"Well, how much longer until you turn me in?" she asked him, her smile, this time, even more sad than the last. "Last time I knew it, there was a hefty price on all of our heads. From the Duke of ALlar himself." She gave another smug, tired grin, trying to push herself to her feet, and hating herself for wasting her strength, but still, she found the will and the way to stand proudly.
"Rest your fears witch.." Cauwyn said with a pained expression and not a little amount of anger. He regretted his words instantly however, and through the pain he managed a weak smirk as he knelt down before her, "I'm no mordecai... princess." It was a much better moniker than witch, though he could think of a similar word to use at times.
He offered out his hand to her once again, his weak smirk turning into a stronger smile, "Though I suppose a bounty would be nice.. Lucky for you I don't know this Allar fella, or much care for dealing with royalty. They all seem a bit uppity to me.." The grin grew stronger still and this time was accompanied by small laugh that he paid for with a painful bout of coughs.
Katahnia only stared at him, and in the end, when he began to cough, she frowned.
"Perhaps if hadn't thrown yourself so recklessly towards me, you wouldn't be in so much pain." she added, almost in a huff, then examined his face with a sigh.
"So I suppose it's true then.."S he looked away, towards all of the ruins.
"This place has probably been long forgotten, even erased."
And here it was, in all of it's glory. Or, rather, just the faded wreckage there of.
Sighing, she turned to him.
"So if you're no mordecai, why can't my magic heal you?" she asked, her face twisting with a concerned expression.
When she huffed at him about throwing himself recklessly at her he stared at her with a rather flat look, "Maybe if'n you weren't fallin' all over th' place or gettin' into trouble every ten minutes I wouldn't have to?" He tried to end the question with an arch of his brow, but Cauwyn wasn't very good at arching his brow so it sort of just became a peculiar look.
He looked around the ruins with her, but said nothing. There was nothing too say really and certainly nothing comforting. At least, nothing Cauwyn could think of. He did give her a small, sad, apologetic smile though. It was the best he could offer, he had no answers for her.
"Don't know," He said rather matter-o-factly with a firm shrug of his shoulders. It was a bit of a sore subject with him, but then what wasn't when it came to this girl? "Never knew my parents, so I couldn't ask them.. When I was younger, and my so called 'gift' got recognized, Alderius took me a few different places t' get tested. We never got much answers, though Alderius received plenty of offers to buy me. An' one of your kind even tried t' cut me open while I was alive, tryin' to see what made me tick.." Cauwyn shuddered slightly at that memory.
"In any case, nears we could figure I'm just some kind of freak.. We caught an Adharan a year or so back, put her t' questionin' about it. Said she didn't know nothin', just that I was some kinda 'bomination.." He shrugged again, casually this time though he couldn't keep the disgust our of his voice. Or the slight quiver of embarrassment. He cleared his throat though, hardening his tone, "But we did figure out that I don't stop magic, like the mordecai or adhara. It just sort of, I don't know, don't affect me as much..." Cauwyn rapped gently against the hard dark leather plate on his thigh, "It can still hurt me, if'n it's strong enough... But I've yet t' kill a mage who could do more than give me a few blisters.."
Katahnia stared at him with interest. She didn't mean to seem to want to pry so deep, but he was the one doing the talking...
"I'm sorry to hear that," she commented, truthfully. "No one should ever have to suffer that way. Or be treated so cruelly." She lowered her head shamefully a moment, as if inwardly praying for him before returning her gaze.
"But I suppose that's a good explanation as to why you negated any of my chances to play the heroine." She smiled wistfully towards him, feeling a bit more at home with him around as she sighed. "But I do seem to have found myself in a predicament." She glanced around again and sighed and found herself merely walking away from him, fingers brushing against the crumbling stone walls as she walked, poising beside the wide open mouth of the stair case that would lead up to the remains of her family's castle.
She hesitated there, staring up at the place in longing.
"Yeah, well, it's a cruel world out there princess an' we all gotta take our licks as they come.." Cauwyn commented with a slight grunt and roll of his shoulders. He wasn't one to take to brooding often, but when he did it he brooded pretty damn well. Now wouldn't be the time though and he shook away the dark thoughts and memories swirling in her head. She had been trying to be nice to him, for once..
And when she mentioned her failed attempt at becoming the heroin, he couldn't help but smile. He watched as she walked away from him and the smile faded slowly as she moved about the walls. He had been too young to remember when he lost his family. After that, loss and death just seemed to become a way of life for him, so maybe he was a bit more used to it than her. Even still, while he couldn't really relate to HOW she felt, he could at least understand that she was probably feeling bad and not in the mood for smartassed remarks.
"Let me gather my things," Cauwyn said as he stomped out the coals of the fire and then set about gathering up the rest of his equipment. He frowned at the clothes he had offered, looking up at the girl as she stood at the entry way. She was looking the other way so he snuck a peak in, admiring her... assets...before clearing his throat and holding up his clothes with a much too innocent smile, "An' ya sure ya don't want t' put these on before we go up? I know they're not quite fit for a princess, or duchess... but it may be a bit chilly an' your dress.. Well, it could raise a lotta... questions. Yeah.."
Katahnia turned around suddenly, startled by Cauwyn's sudden closeness before she gazed down at the offered clothes.
She stared at them moment before lifting her head to his.
"I should be just alright with.." though when she glanced down at her clothes, she frowned.
"Well, " she smiled up at him. "Perhaps if I can acquire a needle and some thread, I could just repair my dress."S he said simply, bowing her head. "But thank you, though."
She... well, her pride would not allow her to take the poor gent's clothing, even if..
well, perhaps it might make a little sense..
She took a few steps and paused.. frowning, and sighed, turning around with a smile.
"Perhaps after I've had a look around." she told him, smiling warmly.
"I'd.. like to see what's left of my family's castle."
He frowned slightly when she turned down his offer of clothing, but quickly shrugged it off. It was her loss, as far as he was concerned. When she mentioned needle and thread Cauwyn considered his little suture kit that he had, but he was too low on catgut to be using it on simple things like dress repair.
He finished rolling the rest of his things back into his bed roll and securing that in the concave of his shield to make a easy carrying pack. Being already in his armor, for what amounted to know reason now, Cauwyn simply strapped on his heavy weapons belt and baldric so that his bastard sword would hang at one hip and a rather vicious axe hung at the other. Picking up his spear in his right hand he started toward her while throwing his shield and pack onto his back, secured together by the binding strap.
"If'n you wanna look around princess, be my guest.." He gestured up the stairs with his spear, but his voice held a sad tone that matched the look on his face, "But, uh... just don't go gettin' your hopes up, yeah?"
SHe turned around to him and simply smiled, tough it was small almost sad as her hand rested at the width of the open door.
"Before I sealed myself away inside crystal, I had to witness my people being brutally murdered and my castle, being ransacked to the ground." Turning away, she began to slowly walk up the stairs with careful, tired and delicate steps. "I just want to see it, that's all." She stated simply, and soon found herself stepping into a whole other world.....
The sun fluttered through the gaping holes in the ceiling above, vines began to twist their way inside and moss growing on the floors and wall. Even patches of high weeds had taken hold and a few animals scattered away at her presence.
It was a surreal sigh to behold, to find herself standing across the decaying old velvet carpet that lead to the throne room of the main hall, and there she found herself staring before an empty spot, with empty stains...
her mind falling back away to some of the memories and what was long past.
Smiling, in-spite of herself, she brushed t her eyes, coaxing back the tears but they didn't listen.
He had been to quite a few sackings in his time, though admittedly from the other side. It was odd to think about as he followed quietly behind her aside from the soft clack of his spear on exposed stone. He had always felt justified, or at least he had told himself he did, when they sacked or razed a village or castle. They had won, they were the victors. It was their right to take what they had earned, paid for with blood. Whether it was jewels, gold, women or slaves they were all spoils that to the victor went. It had made sense.
But then if that was true, why was he here? Why wasn't he still with the Crows? Sure, they hadn't much liked the changes his tenure as leader had brought, but they sure enough had enjoyed the money. He almost stumbled over a jagged stone, but he caught himself and looked down at the rusted steel ball which had caused the break in the stone. His attention wandered from his own thoughts to what he saw around him, the story painted on the walls with destruction and ruin.
As he stepped up close to Katahnia his attention was more focused on the structure around them than her or the feelings she may have been having as she stared at what Cauwyn assumed had once been a throne room. There was a question forming however, one that nagged him enough to break the silence he'd been maintaining for her.
"Princess, you're a witch right?" His tone was light and curious, but also held a hint of caution as though he considered not speaking at all. He gestured about he room with the point of his spear, "But I don't see any marks of magic 'ere. None of the stones look melted, no deep gouges from lightnin' or nothin'.. Were you the only witch in this place? Is that why they locked ya up downstairs?"
She sighed. Not needing to turn towards him, her eyes still lingering over a broken chandelier, she replied, "A witch, I am not. But a mage, yes. My family used magic. We were..." her voice went delicate here. "Let's say my mother did not approve of all of the travesties held against mages, and believed there is a reason magic was born; so long as it was used to help people... I suppose not many people liked that idea." Sighing, she didn't want to get into it and simply walked away. Her blood was hot enough and she had more of the castle ruins to see.
STepping into the hall, she moved with caution, a bird's nest being startled and leaving feathers in it's wake. She stepped over then around a large boulder, moving herself down a great hall until pausing before a room, before, she pushed the door open-
staring into the skeletal remains of a bedroom she used to call hers.
Cauwyn was understandably surprised by Katahnias story. While he may have claimed ignorance of nobility he had plenty of dealings with them, along with other, less yet well to do families. He'd never been invited to any of their fancy parties or anything of that sort, but the rich always had need of mercenaries. They could do the dirty work their armies couldn't be seen doing. So the idea that a noble family, of Connolath no less, had been full of mages? It was shocking to say the least, probably even one of the most scandalous things he'd ever been privy to.
He wanted to question her more about it, but while he had been trying to recover from wrapping his mind around such a thing she had abandoned him for further exploration. He had to hurry along behind her giving him the feeling, even in the dilapidated state of her castle, like some common servant. He wasn't pleased at the thought as he came to a halt behind her at an empty room..
He blew a short, impressed whistle. Cauwyn could guess who's room they were at and he almost felt bad for the girl. He didn't know much about how royalty worked, but he figured her days of fancy living like that was over.
"So..." He said in the awkward silence, still unwilling to drop it, "your family harbored wit...mages? In Connolath?" He was also smart enough to leave unsaid how foolish that sounded.
Katahnia only sighed.
"You could say that." She frowned. "My mother's second husband was a mage who saved her life.."s he began to cross the room as she added. "With his magics." Turning her eyes over her shoulder, she paused to look at him. "It's funny how one can change their mind about things when they realize the potential, the good something can do." Though she frowned and looked around them.
"THough this type of wreckage.." She placed a hand against a broken wall. "Most Connlaothians associate this sort of slaughter with the wickeness of the mage."
She frowned again and moved away, finding herself moving past the ripped remains of her dressing screens, back to a corner where a door lay fallen and some fragments of charred clothing remained.
Her fingers traipsed across them as she walked past, her mind drifting towards another day....
"Yeah, I've seen what magic can do.." Cauwyn said in what he hoped was a casual voice. He didn't necessarily hate magic and he didn't exactly fear it, but his feeling towards it incorporated both of those feelings. He started to step into her room but stopped himself, for what reason he didn't know. It wasn't like it was really her room anymore and reminding himself of this he came in through the door, though he stopped just on the other side of it, "An' for all you mages talk 'bout how good an' noble it can be, I ain't yet seen it used for more than killin' an' hurtin'.."
There was no malice in his voice however, because in the end his view on magic was a fairly simple one. He leaned his weight on his staff, taking some of the pressure off his still sore ribs as he watched her walk down memory lane. He didn't even know if she was listening to him, but then from what he heard most witches had pretty good hearing, "An' I get that ya'll say it ain't evil, I get that. It's like a sword right? A sword ain't evil, it just is.. It's the person, right?"
Katahnia let her fingers drop away from the clothing remains and turned back to him.
"Yes, like a sword,"s he said simply, frowning. "Then I suppose we must be on the same page." Her tone sounded sour. Walking pass him,s he paused at the door and sighed.
"I suppose I've seen enough.." though paused when she caught sight of her reflection in the broken mirror beside her, and found herself entranced at the hollowed woman she had become. Her eyes appeared sunken and dark, though perhaps the shadows were making them appear as if dark circles remained beneath..
but her hair was a mess.. her clothing, destroyed...
She hardly appeared anything like the regal woman she had once been.
She appeared every bit as disheveled and displaced as the wreckage all around them.
Then, when she noted Cauwyn in the mirror as well, her face fell, eyes averting his, even in the reflection as she sighed.
Approaching the vanity, where the mirror was perched, she ran her fingers along the top of it, creating lines int he dust.
Then, moving to open the drawer, she was shocked to find all was plucked clean and spiderwebbed.
except a single, rusted, silver toned brush.
Raising it up, she smiled at it weakly.
"Yeah, a sword.." Cauwyn said quietly as he stood behind her, watching. To him it was just like a sword, and just like anyone else who had a sword when those around him didn't the temptation was just too much. But, as he watched her in the mirror and her eyes fell away defeated and saddened he didn't much feel like continuing the argument.. Even if he figured his analogy was about as clever as he was going to be with Katahnia.
When she lifted the tarnished silver brush from the drawer Cauwyns eyes lit up. It wasn't much, but if that was real silver it would catch a hell of a price. Cauwyns spear made a soft thump on the hard stone as he walked up behind her, though not quiet close enough for her to hit him if she decided to start swinging that thing.
"Ah, what's that?" He asked innocently enough as he tried to peer over her shoulder, "Find somethin'?"
Her gaze went to his in the mirror. It was almost as if he looked hungry for the brush.
Sighing, and keeping her nose well to the air, she decided no to oblige him for a moment as she went about, brushing out her messy locks of hair.
"Nothing of interest to a gentleman, I'm afraid," she replied, coolly. "Unless you're suddenly feel the urge to brush your hair. Hrm.."s he paused and appeared to ponder something as she patted the brush against her palm. "I wonder how your hair might look if I found any of my royal ribbons?"
"Bah!" Cauwyn snorted when she got all uppity, again, and started brushing her hair. She was going to be in for a rude awakening when they got into town and she realized just staring down your nose at people didn't get you a free meal. As Cauwyn started to wander about the room, impressed at it's size while trying not to show it, he considered why was even here at all. The storm had passed and he could hit the road at any time. Why wait around on this stuck up duchess when he could just...
"Huh, wha..?" Cauwyn only vaguely heard what she said, but as it sunk in he spun around to see her pondering face in front of the mirror. His eyes narrowed to a scowl as he moved closer to her, "Hey! I'll have you know princess, my hair's just fine without ribbons! In fact, all manor of ladies love my hair" In demonstration he ran his hand back through the tangled shag. Though the rain had at least cleaned some of the dirt and grime off of it, when he pulled his hand away most of the hair stayed standing. He saw it in the reflection and only scowled more, brushing the hair down with the palm of his hand.
"Yes, all manner of ladies i'm sure," she quipped, smirking quite content with herself before she turned around and handed him her brush. "Maybe you should try this sometime?" she suggested, and simply walked away, though a playful air was about her, and her steps, less forlorn as she paused in the middle of her room, them turned towards the spiderwebbed and rotting posts of her bed frame. The sheets had been plucked try, and what remained was a mildewy feather mattress and a single pillow. It was too charred to fetch price, and as she picked it up, it broke the small spider web that hd been attached to it. She sat down, reflecting, brushing her hand across it before hse sighed again.
She had no idea what she expected to find all here, but all she was finding was haunted memories and ghosts.
"Myeh!" Came Cauwyns quip in return, along with a childish face as she walked past. Cauwyn looked down at the brush in his hand, turning it slowly to see what sort of price he could fetch. It seemed in decent enough shape and he started to put it into one of the many pouches on his belt when he caught sight of his reflection in the mirror.
He'd seen his reflection before of course, in rain puddles and shined metals, but never in an actual mirror. He stood quietly for a time, staring at himself with a rather blank look. The comb set on the dresser he reached up to touch the scar on his chin and then another lighter one under his left eye. He moved his hand out and then back and then out again, watching his reflection mirror his movements. The idea struck him that the mirror might be cursed, because that's what witches do, and he stared to turn away when he remembered the comb. Tentatively he picked up the silver comb looking between it and the reflection of his hair. Holding the thing like a knife he raised it to his head and took one swipe. The sound of the bristles pulling through tangled, knotted unwashed her only sounded about half as bad as it felt when it echoed across the still room.
"Gah!" He panicked and jerked harder going so far as to drop his spear to use both hands, which only made it worse, until the knot tore free and the comb game out. "Ow, what th' fuck!?" Cauwyn stared in the mirror at the awkward swipe of combed hair amongst the rest of his shag. With a growl he stuffed the comb into his belt and then picked up the spear, turning to stare at Katahnia.
"What?" It was his turn to huff, though he didn't do it as well as she did and he knew it. So he simply turned and made his way to the door, stepping out into the hall to wait for her before she tricked him with some other kind of magic trap.
Katahnia had been beside herself, mostly consumed in internal thought, so when she moved toward the door to leave and spotted his hair, she gave a start, hand going over her lips. Though it couldn't hide the laughed gasps he made, nor the smile that blossomed on her cheeks and eyes.
"Well.."S he began, smoothing her hands down her ruined skirts. "I suppose half of your hair at least looks tamed." She eyed him up, then added as she walked passed... "But I suppose the rest could be said about you?" she only afforded him another glance over her shoulders before moving her way with grace down the hall.
Cauwyn scowled at first, falling in step behind her so she could continue her sad walk down memory lane, but as he thought about it the humor in the situation became more and more apparent. The scowl faded and a grin spread and eventually, only five paces later, Cauwyn laughed quietly to himself.
"I don't know princess," He said with a somewhat chipper tone from behind, "half just don't seem right, don't ya think? I mean, I did have ya to myself unconscious at myself for most tha night.." Behind her, he looked like the proverbial cat and canary, "An' yer no worse for th' wear.. Must be worth at least... two quarters yeah?"
Gasping, she turned towards him, swatting at him, but her hand only connected with air.
"Manners!" she siad in a huff. "Really, it is not proper to even jest over such a situation." Katahnia squared off her shoulders. "Even though my country is in ruins, I'd least to think I'd have my dignity in tact." Her eyes were sharp as she looked at him, cheeks burning fierce.
Cauwyn rolled his eyes at her chastising, but he grumbled his agreement anyways. Though he didn't think it was still her country, he could at least be kind in the remains of what used to be her home. And besides, manners were part of being a better person right? Yeah, he could do that.
"Of course ya do, princess," He cleared his throat, "Ah, duchess yeah? An' I won't be makin' no more jokes about it neither. We'll just pretend it didn't happen..." Cauwyn said as he closed the distance, coming up beside her. It was just better, for manners sake, if he walked beside of ahead of her. It wasn't that he was starring... well, it was just better to not be behind her...
Katahnia turned sourly away, cheeks still burning at his comment. Really, did he have to go and bring that conundrum up again. But after a time, she itched over it and had to paused, lowering her gaze.
"Though I suppose I should thank you for.. for not taking advantage of such a situation." She frowned, shook her head and waved it off. "But the topic is best left forgotten." ANd she moved forward, walking more briskly down the hall until she made her way towards the gaping mouth that lead intot he over grown courtyards that had once graced the world wiht it's tamed beauty..
now remained a tangled mess of tall, sky reaching weeds.
Katahnia was taken back.
As much as she knew what to expect, it was still jarring to see her believed gardens in ruins.
She clutched the hand that rested against her breasts and sighed.
"Just another image of ruins.."
Her thanks was unexpected and it brought a small, tight lipped, smile to Cauwyn's chapped lips. He decided not to comment though, considering his newfound attempt at being less of a...what had she called him? A cad, that's right. Yes, Cauwyn decided it was time to stop being such a cad. And really, it wasn't that hard. When she thanked him, instead of making a comment that would no doubt anger, he simply grunted and made an effort to look strait ahead instead of at the neckline of her dress. Progress!
Cauwyn made about two steps farther than she did when he realized she had stopped at the entrance to the garden and turned to face her. It was sad to see the dismay on her face and, for a brief moment, Cauwyn wished he could fix it. Rebuild the gardens, anything to help. The moment passed however, though he still felt bad for her. Clearing his throat, Cauwyn gave the place a look over before turning back to her. He offered up a somewhat half-hearted hopeful smile.
"Look, a wise woman once told me that no matter what happens in your life, no matter who dies or what burns, no one can take the memories of before from ya.." He repeated the words as softly as he could. It had been a pleasant thought as a boy, but once he grew old enough he learned the truth that there were many many things that could take pleasant memories from a person. He was about to offer up another saying when something flashed across an open balcony above and to the side. Cauwyn whirled to face it, but it was already gone.
"Did... did you see that?" He asked somewhat distractedly as he turned in a slow circle, watching viewing rooms and broken rooftop.
Katahnia turned to him, listening to his words with a gentle ear, though the movement, she had seen it to, eyes following it, neck craning.
Blinking, she turned back to him and nodded.
"Yes, but.." she shook her head, tucking back some of her hair as she pressed forward. "Many creatures could have sought shelter in these ruins since the-" and she moved forward, foot finding a root as she began to tripped forward towards the dirt..
OOC: lol...
She's so graceful XD
but he lieks playing catch right?
If not..
FACE IN THE MUD
OOC: I think Cauwyn is going to invest in a 'special' helmet for her!
IC:
Cauwyn was in the middle of undoing the strap holding his shield to his back when he heard Katahnias voice cut out. He dropped his spear and released the shield strap which sent both clanging to the ground in an effort to catch the falling duchess. Not to mention the sharp sudden twist did nothing wonderful for his aching back and ribs.
"Grah!" Cauwyn grunted in pain, barely catching her in time and at an awfully awkward angle, "Don't they teach you t' fuckin' walk at any of them fancy schools!?" He snapped with anger driven by the pain. While his back was turned however two separate shadows paused on the edge of the far balcony to peer down at the two for a brief moment before they darted away in two separate directions.
WHen she was caught by Cauwyn, she gasped and turned to him with a start.
She opened her mouth to retort, a blush gracing her cheeks when she noticed the shadows over head, and then, gasped again.
"I saw it again!" but this time.. it was just odd, and her brow furrowed curiously.
Turning her attention back to Cauwyn, she then blushed at their close proximity.
"Well, why don't you place me down so I can try again?" she humbled him with a less tempered response, though her cheeks would not stop burning.
"And I think there might be... some weird bird or..t hing watching us." She frowned, not quite understanding what that thing might have been.
"Unless my mind is playing tricks on me."s he added, wearily.
A few short breaths and the pain began to subside and along with it his anger. When she responded in such an unusually apologetic tone, the anger was all but gone. He stood there holding her, a small smile on his lips, until she mentioned something about putting her down. Now it was his chance to blush slightly.
"Oh, yeah.. Heh," Cauwyn started to right her up when she mentioned the shadows and the sheepish smile faded away to something far more serious. He kept one hand gently on her arm until he was certain she was steady while scanning the area, "Yeah? Where did ya see them at?"
He caught sight of a quick movement to his left, but when he turned to face it he saw another to the right. With a low grow he moved slowly to where he had dropped his shield and spear, kneeling to pick up both while he kept his eyes moving around their surroundings.
"Princess?" His voice was quiet and calm, but rang with a sense of urgency, "You or your family didn't, ya know, curse this place or nothin' did ya?"
Katahnia frowned.
THen she set her jaw with a sigh.
"I should say not." Frowning, she studied him. "We weren't witches, and, despite being sabotaged, our magic was never meant for such things." Blinking, she looked around, shivering as an unsettling wind swept pass.
"Perhaps we should move away from this place..."
As much as she'd like to stay and reflect, even she felt some haunting presence here.
There was a clanking sound and then the two massive shadows showed themselves from the other side of the garden. Two men in simple fur and leathers came sauntering forward with wicked smiles. One man carried a simple wooden shield and a rather wicked looking cudgel and the other a net that clanked softly as he spun it.
"Oi!" Called at the man with the shield as he took a small step forward of the two, "You two be trespassin' on our property! This is our castle, ya see, an' I don't remember invitin' either of ya for no social events in m' garden.."
"I don't know," The one with the net said in a deep gruff voice, his attention focused almost solely on Katahnia, "might shoulda invited that one.. 'fact, think she might should stay.." Both men chuckled at the idea.
Cauwyn for his part, just held up his spear as though he were trying to caution the two, or maybe even surrender, "Now look fellas, we didn't know this was yer castle.. We can leave, it ain't nothin' to us.."
OOC: Aaaaaaaaand, insert Kathania's pride, which will probably get them killed lol
IC:
Katahnia gasped at the sight of two unruly men, but only narrowed her gaze at them as she squared off her shoulders.
"I can assure you this is not your castle," she informed them through her teeth. "And I am hardly interested in fraternizing with such rude vagabonds." Well.. Cauwyn aside, anyway.
The men only laughed.
"The woman's got a tongue on her," the one man said.
"I wonder how it'd taste?" replied the one with the net.
"Suppose we ought ta try it out?" the raspier man said with a predatory grin. "Git 'er with the net!"
Katahnia's eyes widened as she realized, just a bit too late, she was goading these men on without a weapon...
"Cauwyn.. oh boy.. I think it's about time we-"
And the net began to sail into the air their way.
"That we run!" she shouted, scrambling to turn away as the heavy net blackened the skies above them and came crashing down around her (them?) with it's metal weight.
OOC: I'll let you decide if he'd also get caught, assuming they were standing together lol
OOC: Cauwyn just LOVES his new friend!
IC:
Cauwyn turned his head very slowly, very deliberately, to stare with a wide eyed glare at Katahnia. For a woman with no weapons and as far as he could tell little to no balance, she certainly had no issue goading on the two armed me. His lips moved to mouth the words 'What the fuck are you doing?' at her, but it seemed she wasn't paying attention. No, she was doing a much better job of getting their attention.
And the she got his when it seemed to dawn on her that arguing with the armed men might be a bad idea. As soon as she turned to run Cauwyns attention snapped back to the other two. The net had already crossed half the distance and Cauwyn found himself with time for only a quick action. He jumped backwards, close to Katahnia, and raised his shield. He also yelled 'fuck'.
The heavy metal netting came crashing down around them. Each of the little iron joints were barbed with small spikes sharp enough to cut clothes and pierce flesh without digging too deep into the captives body. The weight of the thing drove Cauwyn down even as he tried to protect them with his shield, forcing him down onto one knee.
"Damnit woman," Cauwyn hissed quietly under his breath, "I hope you have a plan in mind.."
"Looks like I got both!" Hollered the one who had thrown the net. He looked rather smugly pleased with himself as he started forward.
"You mean we got both!" The other corrected following on the other mans heels, his cudgel spinning in hand, "Should catch a fair price at the auction block, though I think we may 'ave t' sample the goods first!"
Both men were laughing when the man with the cudgel whistled back into the dark, a signal to others Cauwyn could only imagine.
"Curse me all you want, the little good it'll do us!" she replied with a huff, though pouted a little as she felt the pang of guilt inside her. "And no, I was thinking I was armed." She winced, pressing close to him as the men moved forward to examine their prize.
Katahnia bared their teeth at them, green eyes flashing with anger.
"Well, ain't this one a tart?" one of the men smirked and poked towards her hair. Katahnia pressed herself closer towards Cauwyn. "Don't worry little lady, we won't 'urt you too badly."
And he laughed, laughed so terribly Katahnia could smell his breath and suddenly leaned into Cauwyn as she held a hand over her face.
"Gods.. I think I might be killed by his breath,"s he whispered. Then, peering up at Cauwyn she asked. "You don't happen to have any bright ideas?" She frowned, knowing full well this was her fault.
"Can't you, I don't know... burn them up or somethin'?" Cauwyn whispered back to her. He couldn't really see what was happening from behind his shield, but he could hear the footsteps of their approaching feet. His spear was trapped beneath the weight of the net as well. He gave the spear a quick yank, but the barbs at the head that made it effective now effectively trapped the weapon.
"Ah, tsk tsk tsk" Someone new clucked with their tongue, pulling the spear out the other way. Cauwyn grumbled slightly, the pain from the falling rocks making it hard to hold the weight of the shield with the net on it. The slavers laughed at his straining and then with a crash one of them brought a weapon down on the shield with repeatedly hammering blows.
Cauwyn growled and bared his teeth, but he was being driven back against Katahnia who had moved up against him. Just as he was about to collapse they stopped and the laughter surrounded them again.
"Come on boyo, just give it up. Who knows, a few years in the mines might give ya the strength to hold that shield!" The man who had thrown the net laughed.
"Aye, just let it go.. We're gonna take the girl anyway. Might as well save yourself the pain.." Came another unfamiliar voice.
The man with the cudgel kneeled down outside the net facing Katahnia with a broad, lecherous grin, "Ahh, don't worry none lass. You'll have good fun... maybe. I know we will!" And to that the laughter started up again as well.
OOC: Lol, she's never really used offensive spells *snickers* would be funny if she tried and it back fired..
or blew them all up XD~
IC:
Katahnia shot Cauwyn a glance.
"I was taught never to use such magics!"s he informed him haughtily. Though as she turned around and was being prod at with lecherous looks she sort of wished she had.
But the laughter is what did it.
"Well, perhaps it's time to try it. There's always times for a first" she said, flicking her wrist towards the men and concentration, and before she knew it, a flash of orange and a hot blast flared towards them, even startling her as she fell back against Cauwyn in a huff- blinking, wide eyed as the men outside the net began to scream and flail around... ON FIRE.
OOC: Or if it had done something totally random, like launched fish at them or something!
IC:
While she was debating whether or not it was right or wrong, Cauwyn was coming up with a plan of his own. He started loosening the binding strap on his shield, knowing that his best course of action was going to be using both his weapons. The heavy net had already started gouging into his recently repaired shield and now it seemed to have hooked its self thanks to the beating earlier. He was about to make yet another smart-assed comment to Katahnia involving her choice of studies when she suddenly released a bright flash and a wave of heat.
That certainly got everyones attention. The blinding hot flash also helped with another issue as it burned its way through the net. Cauwyn twisted suddenly, which hurt like a bitch, and was able to jerk his shield around and in front of her. It helped for two reasons. One, he would be able to use his weapons. The second, and maybe a bit more important to him, it would shield her from watching the men burn or seeing much of anything.
"Hold this.." Cauwyn said with a somewhat feral grin and a growl before slipping arm from the binding, and from around her, leaving her with the large shield to cover herself. With the net dislodged and the men in panicked shock Cauwyn came to his feet with weapons in hand. There were still three of the five not burning, but their faces had gone white in the face of the magic fire. Cauwyn moved quick, the room resonating with the wet smacks as steel cut into flesh and bone mixing with the screaming of the men who burned.
Katahnia gasped.
"Cauwyn!" but she found herself clutching onto the shield, not knowing what else to do. But the moment Cauwyn tore after the men, she felt her heart racing, blood pumping as she stood up, hefting the heavy shield against her form and staring off into the battle field with new found venom in her eyes.
There were men at her back, easily coming after her the moment they saw the attack begin.
"Get the woman and let's get the hell outta here!" one snapped and lunged for her, but she was ready, and swung the heavy shield towards him, his hand slammed off of it and the man howled in pain. But her choice of weapon could only last for so long as the second man was already upon her, grabbing onto the shield and ripping it from her arms. With her balance unsettled, the shield fell from her grip and she, onto the ground.
The men didn't waste any time fetching onto her hair and tearing her off of the ground and the scream Katahnia made was blood curdling as she was yanked off the ground. She tried grabbing for their arms, but then his fist slammed to her throat.
"Now just stop right there, pretty little witch before we cut your face in half." and he whipped out a blade, pressin git to her throat as she snatched Katahnia against his body.
"Give up the fight! We already have the girl!" the man chided, tossing his head towards Cauwyn in a mocking manner. Kathania gasped, clawing desperately, the man's hold on her was choking the very breath out of her and she began to pale and turn blue.
"Put down your spear."
Cauwyn ducked one sword swipe and blocked another with his axe. Growling he turned into the attack driving the blade of his bastard sword up under the mans armor with enough force to explode the blades length out the back of him. Cauwyn didn't stop his movement only change direction. He released the sword, and the man it occupied, and twisted back around to the other man who's blade he had ducked. His axe came in wide in the middle of the mans backswing and Cauwyn buried it with a sickening thunk into the mans skull.
He ducked again and snatched up his spear, coming up in time to parry away a sword. With teeth gritted and a savage look he and the other man began to circle each other when he heard Katahnia scream. He whirled around, unintentionally smacking the guy he'd been facing in the head with the spear shaft, and prepared to throw the spear. It was too late though and the man already had her tight against him, choking the life from her.
"LET HER GO!" Cauwyn's voice boomed in the destroyed garden, echoing with a bit more desperation than he would have wanted. Immediately he realized yelling wasn't the thing to do and his hands shot out to his sides, his spear clanking as it fell to the ground, "Let her go, please. 'ere, see? I let my spear go, jus' let 'er breathe.."
The man only snickered, before yanking Katahnia away, holding he rout at the extension of his arm as she barely had the time to gasp for air when he yanked her forward, smashing her face into the heavy shield that remained abandoned, and Katahnia went limp.
The man smirked and gestured towards his men.
"Kill him!" he pointed right at Cauwyn, then made a whistle, a black horse coming galloping towards him from the woods as he tossed Katahnia onto the back of it and swung his legs up and around before turning once back to Cauwyn with a wicked sneer.
"See that he suffers!" the man called, and gave the horse a sharp kick as it began to rush off...
"You son of a..!" Cauwyn growled when he struck Katahnia unconscious and moved forward to lunge, but was cut short by a blow to the back of his head. Cauwyn went down, twisting as he went to land on his back, in time to look up and see the man with the cudgel about to bring it down again. Two more men joined in with a flurry of kicks forcing Cauwyn to retreat into a ball trying his best to defend himself.
One man finally roughly grabbed him by the wrist and hauled him to his feet, pinning his arms behind his back. Another man, smaller but stouter than Cauwyn, came up and without a word drove his fist into his stomach. Cauwyn's armor held soften the blows, but only enough to keep him from blacking out.
Just as the man with the cudgel approached Cauwyn struck out, driving the hard sole of his boot into the man holding hims knee. The bone popped and buckled giving Cauwyn the chance to throw him over his shoulder. When the guy with the cudgel swung Cauwyn caught his arm, twisted it and then slammed his fist into the elbow joint dislocating it. Cauwyn drove a viscious sidekick into the mans gut as he released him snatching the club before it could hit the ground. He whirled on the third man catching him in the face before he could draw his sword. With each man wounded enough Cauwyn backpeddled until he could reach his sword. Pulling it free of the body he turned back on the others, snatched up his axe and walked forward.
The fight ended in seconds with Cauwyn covered in blood, most of it theirs. Bruised, battered and bleeding from the lip and nose Cauwyn snatched up his shield and took off after the Katahnia and her captor at a full sprint.
The horse had thundered far ahead of the rest, and it was from this motion Katahnia woke. THey were some ways ahead of Cauwyn by now, and it was only then she realized what had occurred. The motion was foolish, but she was not goin got be taken by this ruffian, and just as the horse rounded a patch of thick grass, she pushed herself off of it and tumbled heavily into the brush.
A moment later, she lay there, dizzy while her head was throbbing something fierce before lifting her weary head and watched the horse gallop down the trail without her.
She was just about to smile when she noticed the man realized she was gone-
he made an angered noise, jerked the reigns and pulled the horse her way.
Her eyes widened as she scrambled down the path, trying to make her way into deeper woods but the man was soon upon her again and he fiercely latched onto her arm.
"You aren't going anywhere!" he shouted.
"Let me go!" she cried, yanking her arm, but he held it fast.
"You are coming back with me whether you want to or not." he drew out his knife, but before he could swipe at her, she though tto before, and thought to anger, and soon an eruption of flames scorched his face.
The man cried, as did his horse as he was bucked off of it.
Turning away, Katahnia made a mad dash back towards the trail.
If anything, she hoped to get a head start back towards the broken castle...
and towards Cauwyn when suddenly...
a knife hit her leg..
and she went down, eating dirt.
she lay there a moment, before slowly turning to lay on her back and up at the treeline and clouds..
and then the man was upon her, snatching her by the throat and digging the knife he threw, that was still embedded into her leg, deeper into it as she let out a cry, that was swiftly muffled by the choking around her neck.
"Perhaps you didn't hear me the first time," he breathed his nasty breath upon her, and suddenly she heard him tearing at her skirts.
Gasping, she tried to fight him, but the man was strong, and her vision was whitening..
she was becoming light headed...
"Gods!" she gasped, eyes rolling into the back of her head as fingers smashed into his eyes....
and she began to fade out and away...
Running was a painful endeavor. Every ungraceful lopsided step shot hot fire through his body and threatened to steal the air from his lungs. Air he forced himself to breathe in through gritted teeth despite his mind screaming at him to gulp for the air. Cauwyn was no stranger to pain or injury and he knew how to deal with both. He also knew he was never going to catch the galloping horses on foot. Thankfully the rain that had drove him to the castle in the first place had muddied the ground enough that a blind man could follow the hoof prints.
He didn't know why cared, why he was even following this girl. He owed her nothing. If anything, she owed him! He'd saved her from whatever foul magic had encased her in a gem. Then again from the falling rocks and now for a third time he was putting himself in harms way for one of the most insufferable people he had ever met. None of it mattered though, he told himself as he pushed himself to run faster, he was still going to save the girl.
His leather boots made only a soft sound as they struck against the mud despite his lumbering jog, so when he rounded the bend of the trail it didn't appear the man holding Katahnia had noticed him. But Cauwyn noticed exactly what the man was doing with one hand at her skirts and the other on her neck. A bloom of anger pushed out the pain and gave Cauwyn the strength to push himself that last extra bit.
At the last second Cauwyn roared swung his shield up into the mans burned face, edge first. The man let out a strangled cry as he was thrown back a few feet off of the girl and left holding his now burnt and broken face. Cauwyn planted his spear in the mud as he moved between Katanhia and her attacker, tossing aside his shield and pulling free his bastard sword.
Katahnia, collapsed pathetically into the mud and went still.
But her attacker did not. Though his face smarted, he turned back towards Cauwyn with renewed vigor, pulling out another blade as he tested the weight of it while moving his arm to the side, then in a quick motion, he hurled the thing towards Cauwyn's face..
and then slipped another one out from his breast pocket and aimed a second knife at his boot as he scrambled across the mud-troddened pass, giving a quick whistle between his teeth in hopes to call his horse...
Cauwyn saw the knife coming dodged with a quick twist of his body letting it sail by his face. He only snarled, leveling cold and merciless eyes at his attacker. What he didn't see was the second knife. Nor did he feel it when it embedded its self in his leg just above his ankle having just missed his armor. At least not until he moved.
Cauwyn gave the hand and a half sword a rather graceful spin as he moved to close in on his prey. His second step however sent a lance of pain up his leg that almost buckled him. Cauwyn grit his teeth through it, forcing himself to move forward even as the man scrambled to his feet. Cauwyn knew there was no way he could catch him. He was in no condition to run the man down.
Thinking quick he tossed his sword up and then recaught it in his hand in a reverse grip. He brought the sword up to his own head and with a grunt of effort to aid his rapidly dwindling strength Cauwyn launched the sword like a spear at the mans back.
With a sickening noise, the man went down, face first in the mud, knife in his back.
His horse had come a bit too late, trodding up to it's master with a snort through it's nose. It's tail swished behind it as it pawed at the road.
Groaning, Kathania began to move, air returning to her lungs as she threw herself onto her back and continued gasping, her lungs burning, aching, constricting until finally, she got her breathing in order, only to find herself coughing at the sore and dryness of her parched throat. She remained laying in the mud, not daring to move from her back as she let out a groan and turned to see Cauwyn.
She couldn't help herself but smile.
"Cauwyn.." she spoke his name barely on a breath of air before submitting herself to a fit of coughing again before she sighed and just lay back into the dirt, raising her chin up and closing her eyes. "It's a shame my duchy lay in ruins.." she commented through a soft breath, still not opening her eyes.
"You'd make a very valiant and handsome knight." and she smiled at her comment, but was too beside herself to stand and groaned, turning to herself and reaching down, with a wretched scream, as she tore out the knife in her leg
Glaring at it, she tossed it aside then leaned against her hands, staring down at the road beneath her as she calmed herself. Swallowing hard, she turned her gaze back towards Cauwyn
"Are you alright?"
As soon as the sword stuck Cauwyn reached down and pulled out his axe. He didn't move, he simply stood and watched for a few brief moments to make sure the man didn't get back up. His shoulders and chest heaved with every labored breath, but he focused and controlled his breathing until he was able to get it under control.
Everything hurt and it showed on in the tension in his jaw and the slight quivering of his hands. The pain was enough that he wanted to puke, but Cauwyn managed to control himself from that. He didn't dare turn to look at Katahnia, not like this and not when her attacker could still be alive. But, despite the throbbing in his head and ringing in his ears, he heard her soft words and Cauwyn couldn't help but smile. Not a grin or a smirk, but a genuine, proud, almost boyish smile. He turned his head over his shoulder finally, trying his best to look at her and keep the other guy in his vision. It was no easy task, as his eyes were already beginning to darken and the left one was puffing up with a dark shade of blackish purple. Even hurting smiled, but it didn't stop him from practically beaming over at Katahnia.
"Don't worry 'bout me, princess," He said still beaming as he wiped the blood from his nose and lip with a swipe from the back of his gloved hand. His voice hoarse but still pleased despite how raw his throat was, "I'm all sweet rolls an' rainbows.."
Finally he moved forward, limping heavily with axe still in hand, over to the other guy. Unceremoniously Cauwyn buried his axe in the back of the mans skull with a solid, and rather wet sounding, thwack before putting it back in the loop on his belt. He had to step on the mans back to get his sword free which he then proceeded to wipe somewhat clean on the attackers clothes before sheathing the blade. He then limped back over to the young duchess gathering his things along the way before practically falling to the ground with a pained grunt.
"An' how 'bout you, m'lady?" Cauwyn said with a small smile at the term, one he probably wouldn't use again, "Are you alright? He didn't hurt ya too bad did he?" Cauwyn wretched the knife in his own leg free and tossed it aside as well before twisting and turning to face her. Well, face her sort of.
He was looking down at her wound and most assuredly not admiring the tone of the leg it was in. It wouldn't be proper for a valiant knight like himself. He started to reach out to touch it, to test how bad it was, but stopped himself just short finally prying his eyes away and back up to hers, "May I see your wound? Might need t' stitch you up again.."
Katahnia studied him, and couldn't help but let her smile remain small. His poor face.. and his body was covered in blood. Her heart went out to him. When he approached, she tucked some of her gold hair aside and looked down at her leg and forced herself to sit more erect.
"You don't have to worry about me.." she told him, solemnly as she leaned forward, shoulders brushing his arm as she placed a hand over her wound. A warm, white glow emitted from between her fingers, and the skin swelled and closed up, blending it together as if it had never been there before.
She released a shiver and looked up at him with a weary smile.
"I can heal myself. Or have you forgotten you called me a witch?" she smiled, then felt her head grow light before she collapsed against him with a small noise.
Groaning, she placed a hand to her face and moaned.
"I'm sorry.. I just feel so weak...." her powers hand't been the same since she had awoken from the crystal. perhaps her body was still on the mend since that. After all, it was quite a spell to cast.
She released another breath, just closing her eyes a minute as she leaned against him.
"And I'm sorry I can not do any healing for your wounds." she peered up at him, trying to offer him a smile as she studied his face.
"And Im sorry." she said it again, a third time. "For all of this mess." and turned her sad eyes away, casting them to the dirt.
When Katahnia reached for her own leg it dawned on Cauwyn just what was happening. He pulled his hand back, maybe a bit faster than normal, and watched with quiet fascination(Like someone might a hanging) as she worked magic on her wound to heal it. There was, briefly a pang of hot jealousy that ran through him when she pulled away her hand to reveal a healed wound. It would be weeks for him to heal, maybe even longer.
If his jealousy angered him, he didn't say anything about it however. He just wrapped his arms around her as she fell against him. It felt good to have her leaning against him, in his arms. And a little exciting. She was admittedly weak, putting off a sense of helplessness as she lay against him. It put a lot of dark thoughts into Cauwyn's head, even wounded and in pain as he was, but he chose to ignore them. Instead, he worked his chapped and now busted and slightly swelling lip into a grin.
"Quite the dangerous witch too, aren't you?" He gave a quick jerk of his head toward her dead attacker, "I don't think he'll be forgettin' at least, if it's any consolation." He had to crane his neck to look down at her as he spoke, but he was ok with that. Cauwyn didn't dare release her from the embrace. Afterall, she could... fall again or something. It was for safety! "An' I have no doubt you're weak, princess. I don't know how long you were trapped in that gem, but I doubt ya could get much t' eat or drink in there.."
"Well..." Cauwyn said as she thanked him and then even apologized. He knew he had said he would try to be more mature, but she was making it so hard! Literally and metaphorically. Cauwyn wasn't exactly sure how to handle the praise and the apology. It wasn't something he was used too, and especially not from a young noble woman. He struggled with the idea of making a joke about a reward, but in the end decided against it, "yes. You're, uh, welcome, duchess. Your hairs a mess.." Cauwyn blurted without thinking, his hand moving to pick away a few damp leaves and twigs.
Then, remembering with a smile, he reached down to his waist and pulled up her silver comb. It was dented and scratched from the beating he took, but the bristles were still intact.
OOC: awww, what a cute reply post XD!
Hooray for the brush! *adds in more awkward cute/semi-flirting into post* XD~
IC:
Katahnia's lips flattened at his statement, feeling awkward beneath his gaze as he turned away, blushing and smiled as she raked a hand through her hair.
"So it would seem."
She then looked over her shoulder at the brush, smiling at it before looking up at him.
"You know.."s he began, taking the offered silver brush and began to demurely paint it through her hair. "The same could be said about your messy locks." She tossed her half brushed hair at him, aiming to smack some of it into his face on purpose before she moved to rise. Her legs were a bit unsteady, but she managed to keep herself balanced as one hand went to his shoulder for support, the other, well held the brush fast as she moved forward and took it through hit hair.
However, pulling it through was a bit of a chore.
"And here I was joking!! Your hair has such knots!" she exclaimed, such dismay huffing through her lips as she fought, a little, to free the brush through, but kept at it, determined to make good use of the silver, polished (though rusting) piece in her hand.
OOC: I know right? I debated going flirty or ass-hole, but at least now he's only got one option left!
IC:
When she smacked her hair across his face Cauwyn practically giggled like a schoolboy, which he put an end to quickly with a forced cough and a fist to his mouth. He wasn't the giggling type, in fact he couldn't remember the last time he had giggled, and he damn sure wasn't going to start now. No matter how soft her hair was or how good it smelled.
He watched her climb to her feet with all the subtlety of a fifteen year old boy, though when she used his shoulder to brace herself Cauwyn jerked his head away so she couldn't see the wince in his eyes or the fact he had to clench his teeth to bite back a small cry of pain. It passed, though maybe not soon enough as he realized she was stepping behind him and his muscles began to tense.
"Hey, just what are you-" Cauwyn's cautious tone was interrupted when he felt the brush in his hair. For a brief moment he smiled at the idea of the duchess brushing his hair, until the memory of actually using the thing shot back into his mind. He could hear the sound of the combs bristles ripping their way through the knots in his hair. It would seem, to Katahnia, he just wasn't in enough pain already. "Ow! Ow, hey! What are you...?"
Much to Cauwyns dismay Katahnia seemed to be rather determined in her endeavor. He squirmed a bit, but didn't dare move away with the comb so dangerously close to his head like some sort of weapon. With his hands planted at his side to steady himself, Cauwyn grumbled half-under his breath and just loud enough for her to here, "This isn't the kinda reward I was thinkin' of!"
Instinct had her hitting him lightly on the head with the brush, then she gasped, as if that were the apology and moved beside him, slowly pulled her hand away from his shoulder.
"I thought we were going to drop such a thought!" she tasked him, but couldn't help but smile at him and all of his grouchy and weariness.
"YOu look worse for wear.." she sighed, turning away with a frown.
"We should get your wounds looked at." She studied him, frowning again.
"And I meant when I was sorry for all of this." She forced another smile for one , though this one shone sadness. "If it weren't for me, or you somehow releasing me from the crystal I... well.. I suppose we wouldn't be sitting out there, both of us a bloodied mess and I.."s he smiled at her brush fondly, twisting it with interest between her hand. "ANd I, now armed with my best weapon." she pointed the silver brush right him and smiled, then took a moment to admire the handy work the brushing did and found herself needing to tuck in her smile, but dimples and a blush still cut her cheek.
"Well now, I think this brush must have magic." she mused.
He winced slightly at the smack on his head, but it did little to dissuade his grin. Especially when she gasped at her own reflex. When she brought up his wounds again though, Cauwyn waved them away with an errant flip of his hand. He wasn't a weak man and was well versed in pain, but also smart enough to know when he needed to put aside his pride. It was just so damn hard with her around, he didn't want her to think he was weak. Not that he was really sure why her opinion mattered so much to him, seeing as how they apparently weren't going to be sleeping together.
"If'n I hadn't found ya in that dungeon," Cauwyn stated, turning from where he sat to look at her. It hurt, but he bared it, "then I pro'lly would have still run into those fools searchin' the place for somethin' to loot. Without you there, and your witchery, I might not have gotten outta that damnable net. So, I think, I should thank you.."
His honest, boyish smile genuine and true twisted then quickly into a grin, "And when I'm not so sore, maybe I'll give you that reward, yeah?" He winked at her before breaking out into a short chuckle that ended in a fit of painful coughing. He kind of liked getting her all worked up. The way her cheeks blushed made her look...cute.
Her comment about magic in the brush though sobered him rather quickly and he stared hard at the brush and then her for a second before understanding what she was saying. He shot her a mocking scowl, tilting his head back and trying in vain to look up at his own hair, "T'ch! My hair didn't look that bad..." He started to raise his hand to tentatively touch his newly styled hair out of curiosity.
"Yes, perhaps it wasn't so bad," she humored him, moving two fingers forward to pinch a strand of hair, which she then proceeded to twirl between her fingers, shaping it into a small spike.
She chuckled then drew her hand away, shaking her head as she frowned, sighing.
"You look awful. Is there anything I can do to help?" she felt awful she could't do anything, and this was the first incident where she couldn't just help heal someone up. She sighed again at the reflection of her skills, and also at her own state as well, staring down at her dress, now in shreds, and revealing far too much skin of her legs for comfort.
"Perhaps I should go back to the castle and fetch some of that old silk.." but her smile was faked, as she realized how silly that would sound.
Cauwyn was about to make another inappropriate suggestion on how she could help, but decided against it and close his mouth at the last possible second. It wasn't easy, from where he was sitting there was a lot of shredded skit and delightful leg. Cauwyn turned and grabbed onto his spear, using it to help pull him to his feet. He frowned down at the wound in his leg and the small spurt of blood that bubbled out when he put weight on it. With a sigh he reached into his pouch for his supplies.
"Kia's cunt!" Cauwyn hissed, pulling his hand from his pouch for a quick look around. "I left m' needle an' thread back in th' castle with my stuff.." He sighed then and hefted his shield, leaning heavily on his spear as he walked a little closer to Katahnia.
"What about you, princess? Think you can make it back t' that castle?" He frowned slightly as he looked her over. He didn't know what it was like to use magic, but he knew the girl was weak and he was sure it had something to do with it. Along with not eating or drinking anything in however long. Or bathroom breaks.. His frown flicked into a smile when he looked past her to the horse the man had been riding that now pawed at the ground enjoying some grass just off the roadway.
"Say princess," He jutted toward the horse with his job, "you know anything 'bout ridin' horses?"
Katahnia visibly flinched when she noticed how his wound reacted to the weight upon it. THen flinched even more so at his choice of words. Really, did he already forget he was in the presence of a lady?
"I would be alright, but what about you?" she replied to the suggestion of them traveling back tot he castle, though she sighed. She didn't notice his gaze upon the horse, however, until he asked and she looked over at it with a gasp.
"Oh!" a smile over took her features as she delicately smoothed back her hair, and spoke, gesturing with the silver brush.
"I will have you know I'm quite the skilled rider." She gave him a smug grin as she approached the horse. I twas cautious at first, but a gentle stroke to it's nose had the horse settled in minutes as she took the reigns and guided the best over to him with a bright smile.
"Do you know how to ride?"s he asked, playfully.
For his part, Cauwyn just leaned on the spear and tried not to fall over. He'd taken about as much weight off of his injured leg as he could, though it hardly made him comfortable. When she was leading the horse over he eyed the beast wearily, but her confidence in riding and the way she wielded the brush like a knife made him smile. The question though, made him clear his throat.
"I don't know.." He said somewhat cautiously, though he did manage a smirk, "Is knowin' and doin' the same thing?"
He stepped closer and the horse snorted at him. He was covered in blood, a bit of his and a good portion of others. The horse stomped a hoof in warning and stared at him, but it didn't move from Katahnia's side. If anything, its drew its self closer to the woman. Cauwyn's smirk grew a bit wider.
"Looks like ya got yourself a new knight, princess." He chuckled softly at his own joke as he tried to make himself look like less of a threat by holding his arms out to his side. He continued to look at the horse as he spoke to Katahnia, his words almost childishly soft as to not scare the animal, "I'm not exactly th' best rider.. And it's not really m' favorite thing t' do... It's a bit," He paused to think how to say it without being too vulgar for the lady, "uncomfortable, I find.. Ya know, in m' pants.."
Yeah, that seemed pretty smooth.
Katahnia tried her best to suppress a chortle, but the evidence was clear as the noise came through the hand over her mouth. SHe dropped it away and smiled at him.
"I suppose I wouldn't know," she told him, the words almost in a playful song as she turned to the beast and stroked it's nose to sooth it.
"Do not worry, though he smells of blood and sweat, he's not too bad," she cooed to the horse.
The horse merely flickered it's ears, stamping it's foot lightly once. Katahnia smiled and glanced over at Cauwyn. "So he might be a bit rough around the edges," she spoke more softly, as if speaking only to the beast and.. not the other one as she looked at Cauwyn. "But I groomed his hair. Perhaps the rest of him could clean up well." Though her nose wrinkled in delight as she noticed the single spike she had curled into it. She hid her lips again, then lowered them as she raised her head, becoming more composed.
"So I suppose I shall lead us then?" she inquired, fingers stroking downt he horses mane. "That is, to say, if the ride won't be.. "s he looked up thoughtfully before glancing to him. "Uncomfortable in your pants?"
Cauwyn narrowed his eyes as he glanced rapidly between the horse and Katahnia. He had a sinking feeling that they were plotting against him, only furthered by her small laughs and smiles. He liked her smiles. They were just about as pleasant to look at as the rest of her, maybe even more so. But that fondness didn't do anything to convince him that her and the horse weren't in cahoots.
In fact, a very disturbing thought that maybe she could speak with animals because of her magic popped into his head. He would have to watch these two close. And why did she keep grinning when she looked at his hair? If it looked funny it wasn't his fault! She was the one who combed it!
"Oh I've heard about you ladies an' your love of horses," Cauwyn said, still looking between the two, as he approached, "an for such a short distance, I think my private bits'll manage just fine." He stopped just shy of her and the horse, his somewhat defensive comments becoming more noticeable for what they were as he shot a nervous glance at the saddle.
It wasn't that he didn't know how to ride, or that he was necessarily scared of the big animal... He had just always been more comfortable walking..
"So, do you want me t' help ya get up there?" He pointed at the saddle with a nod of his head, "Cause I can, yeah?" And it would give him a reason to not be in the saddle for a few more moments.
Katahnia tilted her head as she looked at him.
"I can fair just well to get myself onto a horse," she informed him, moving with grace and swiftness and strength as she hooked her foot into the stirrup and swung her legs clean around, landing comfortably aboard the horse.
She kept the reigns taunt as the horse stilled, raising it's head to attention as Katahnia quirked a brow at him.
"Going to climb aboard?" she asked, smugly.
"Huh," Cauwyn commented rather nonchalantly with a somewhatt amused grin, not wanting to give her the satisfaction of saying how impressed he was, "I suppose you don't.."
His turn, Cauwyn knew, would not be so graceful. She was already in the stirrups and he would have to be riding behind her. Cauwyn hobbled close and then twirled his spear to face point down, stabbing it into the mud. After that he unbound his shield and re-strapped it to his back. Graceful, smooth or swift were hardly the words to describe his mounting of the horse as he used mostly upper body strength to haul himself into the saddle. When everything was said and done he was nestled up close behind her panting with the effort of the event and in enough pain that he didn't even mention anything about the way they were sitting so close together.
"There.." He said after a few breaths, reaching out and pulling his spear from the mud with a grunt of effort, "all seated.. Whenever.." He was trying to time his words with his breathing, "yer ready... Princess."
At his less, graceful presentation to saddle himself onto the horse, she found herself tensing a bit, though she wasn't the only one. SHe had to calm the horse with soft, cooing breaths as she controlled him with the reigns. She hadn't thought she'd feel... well, this awkward with Cauwyn pressed so close behind her, but she ignored it, and her blush as she peered back at him without turning her head.
"Then to the castle then." and with a snap of the reigns, and a light kick to the horses side, it took off, jolting her back against Cuawyn as the wind took her hair and smells along with it as the horse thundered forward.
Once back at the castles, Katahnia frowned as she slowed the horse down, staring at the smoking remains of their recent battle.
"It's hard to believe that this is what has become of my home."s he sighed, not certain what else to do with herself as she stopped the horse before the wreckage, and stole a glance up towards the sky. There was still enough day light, but what other use could she have in this day?
"Well, we're back home," she said, trying to sound cheerful, though the words did not quite register as so.
Their proximity was not lost on Cauwyn and he did try to scoot back some and give her room... and himself. He was in the middle of this adjustment when Katahnia spurred the horse on and shifted back into him again. Instinctively one arm reached out and wrapped about her waist as his vision disappeared in a blur of whipping hair and a delightful scent that did nothing to help the, er, growing problem he was having. He turned his head to the side looking off into the woods through swelling eyes as though maybe, if he couldn't see any part of her, the tension might ease away. It wasn't very effective.
What was effective however was the jostling of the horse as they rode. Having a woman in a thin dress pushed up against as you both bounced up in down in rhythmic fashion certainly had its effects on Cauwyn, but then so did the bouncing up and down on the back half of a saddle, and that wasn't even factoring in the bruises and possibly cracked ribs.
When they finally stopped outside the smoldering ruin Cauwyn gave a small groan of relief, but made no move to remove his arm from around her waist or slide off the saddle. Not at first at least, instead he sat rather still trying to catch his breath. Through his nose, which he found to be more pleasant.
Only after his breathing was regulated did he slowly allow his muscles to relax. He had to move his head back and forth until he dislodged the majority of it from her hair, leaning forward and pressing against her slightly as he spoke into her ear. His words were somber and genuine, without any hint of his typical wry or lecherous remarks, "Princess... Katahnia, truly, I am sorry for your loss.."
With a heavy sigh he leaned back unwrapping his arm from around her and sliding off the saddle. It was much smoother than when he mounted, though when his injured leg hit he stumbled visibly and sucked a heavy breath. Again using his spear as a walking stick he started limping forward but stopped himself just in front of the horse, looking back at her over his shoulder.
"I'll just be a moment to gather my things, then we should go. Leave this place and make for the nearest town.."
It didn't quite register with her that she simply agreed with him, sealing herself naturally as a traveling companion with this man. But in all seriousness, she had little choice or destiny with her life as a cold, wind, swelling fast from an on coming storm howled through the debris.
"Do you need my help?" she inquired, slipping off the horse and gathering the reigns, hand gently stroking the soft fur of the beast's nose. She moved to tuck some of her hair from her face, by the ever growing wild winds seemed to have other plans for that as they simply tossed back across her face.
OOC: Sorry it's short XD
Cauwyn's things were still in a nice neat pile, wrapped up within the confines of his sleeping roll. With trembling fingers he had managed to untie the roll and dig through until he found his little sewing kit. Falling onto his ass more than simply sitting down, Cauwyn worked his hard soled boot off with little more than a pained grunt being allowed to escape.
Blood had stopped bubbling from the wound, but still it seeped out in a very slow dribble. Just as he had done before, for Katahnia, he poured in the last of the grain alcohol into the wound and over what catgut remained. There wasn't much, but it would be better than nothing. When the alcohol hit the wound he hissed sharply instead of howling, his pride wouldn't allow him to do such in front of another. Especially not a woman.
"Hmm?" He asked through clenched teeth, trying to sound up beat all the same, "Uh, help? Yeah.. Uh, here.." He pulled his dagger from a sheath on his belt and held it out to her, handle first, "I need ya to take this an' go find those men we killed. Any part'a there clothes that are clean or at least cleanish, I need ya to cut into bandages..." He started to turn back to his wound but then, through the haze of pain, remembered something else, "Oh! An' see if they got any coin on 'em! We're gonna need some for where we're goin.."
Katahnia was actually taken back by the request.
"Are you asking me to loot their bodies?" A part of her couldn't help but smile as it cracked and bloomed across her lips, she even laughed. "Though I suppose,.."s he looked away, blushing as she pushed herself to her feet, after having knelt beside him, hoping to have helped him in anyway she could with his wound, still itching over the fact her magics were useless.
"I suppose their money is of no use to them now." Sighing through a smile, she rose to her feet and slipped away.
She found the men, looting what pockets she cold and loaded a few bits tot he horse, before returning to the depths of the castle- shredded cuts of fabric in tow. With a few other trinkets, a dagger for her, and for him, even a sword she slung ver her shoulder.. (she didn't want to go illprepared) she approached Cauwyn and made a loud noise as she set the loot aside. Swiping her hair back, she smiled over at him and approached, holding the folds and cuts of fabric delicately as she got to her knees before him.
"Mind if I help?" she inquired, looking up at him, as if needing permission to wrap his leg.
Cauwyn couldn't help but smile at Katahnia's reaction to being asked to loot the dead. He assumed the idea had to be some kind of novelty to her with the way she smiled, which was good considering he thought he would have to argue with the noble over the need. He only hoped that she didn't lose her stomach to the idea once she started.
With Katahnia gone on her little mission, tending to his wound was much easier. It meant he only had to worry about being too loud with any grunting or groaning, as opposed to absolutely silent. He managed to stitch the wound close, though it wasn't his best work. He'd used a lot on Katahnia's stomach and the last on his own wound.
He was in the middle of making a small swab from a twig and some thin cloth when he noticed Katahnia's return. When he saw what she brought back, his eyes widened with surprise and he couldn't keep the shocked smile from his face, "Wow, princess. Look's like ya got quite a knack for this sort of thing.." His eyes wandered past the bandages he'd asked for to the weapons she had brought back as well. When she settled in next to him, Cauwyn scooted around until he offered his leg to her.
"I would like the help," He admitted with a small, clearly amused smile. She surprised him with her fortitude and her stomach. With his swab made he pulled out another small flask, pulling the simple stopper free and releasing a rather stringent scent of ammonia. He turned his leg so she could wrap, "Tightly, if ya please."
Dipping the swab into the flask he pulled it back out, now a noticeable yellow color, and started dabbing the urine on the various cuts on his face, lips, and hands.
Oh, wasn't he getting comfortable over this!
SHe couldn't help but gasp a bit in surprise when the leg was offered, but she gave a quick laugh.
"Fine, I suppose I'll help. After all, it's the least I could do." then she sighed, mind drifting towards her pile of loot. "The supplies were necessary. I can wield a sword just fine, and I brought you a dagger."s he smirked, lifitng her head from where she was in the middel of wrapping his wound and pulled it out from her side and handed it to him.
"They had some taste on them," she commented, gesturing towards the handle, which had ornate sculptures in the metal handle. "Perhaps these things can be of some use to us on the road ahead?" She smiled and went back to gently wrapping his leg, taking her time, her slender fingers gently tending, almost caressing his sore skin.
"It does appear as if we might be stuck with one another for a time." and here, she lifted her head when she was all done addressing his wound, blonde hair frayed and framing her face in light, wavy curls. "Thank you." she said after a time. "I know it might not seem like much, but it's appreciated to have found a friend during all of this." She sighed, lowering her gaze.
"Though I fear I have no forms or methods of payments to offer you for your heroism. " She shook her head. "Though I suppose if you want some claim of this castle.." she jested, laughing soft and sweet. "We have some crumbling ruins of once fancy rooms. I'm sure there might be one in there to your fancy." Smiling, she cupped her hands over her lips, shoulders moving sitll as she laughed. "Forgive me, I could not help the jest," she informed, a and lightly touching to his arm, green eyes shining with mirth.
He managed to smile as she bandaged his wound. It was sore, but her touch was much softer than he was used to though no less efficient. When she mentioned the weapons, particularly the sword and her knowledge there of, Cauwyn couldn't help but let out a small chuckle of his own, "Oh really? You, princess, know how to use a sword? I thought noble Ladies only learned things like dancin' and horse ridin' and knittin' and stuff.. I didn't realize swordplay was among the list..." He accused, half-jokingly. He was interested in just how much she knew, though his expectations were fairly low. As they were of most who spoke of formal education in such things. Untested knights and young lords looking for honor and glory on the battlefield often met a gruesome fate. One he had doled out plenty.
Once he finished treating his wounds with the cow urine he re-stopped the flask and tucked it back into the pouch on his belt that held all his medical supplies, freeing up his hands in time to take the offered dagger. He inspected the blade and then the intricately carved handle with a small smile. He was one for flashy things, they tended to make you a target, but he liked this one. Mostly because she had given it to him, but he liked it none the less, "Weapons are always of use on the road. I know little of the area here, but what I've heard from the people of th' nearby towns say the roads can be rough. It was that warning that kept me from seeking shelter closer t' the road in that storm, an' lead me here.. To meet you."
He paused for a moment in reflection of that thought, his eyes studying the duchess and the way her hair framed her face. Then he noticed he was starring and with flash of sheepishness looked away, tucking the dagger into his belt somewhere in the back. He cleared his throat, hoping to break up any awkwardness he might have caused and then looked back at her with a smile.
"A claim t' part of yer castle, yeah?" Cauwyn looked up and around at the shattered ruins around them. He tried his best to focus, in his minds eye, what it might have looked like before. The image made him smile, but also made him a little sad as he looked back to Katahnia wearing both emotions. She'd lost so much, maybe too much, "I think I might like that. Never 'ad a castle, never even stayed in one 'til last night.. Always th' inn or the stables, ya know, proper places for my sort.." He smirked with a quick chuckle.
He grinned at her little joke, or more accurately the way she looked with that sparkle of mirth in her eyes, "Tell ya what.." Cauwyn started as he began pulling his boot back on, "how 'bout we make a deal? Now, I've done a lot of things with a sword over m' years an' not much of it was good. In fact, can't think of any of it as bein' 'good' or 'right'.." He reached out an took her hands in his, "But, if'n I can keep ya safe until ya figure out what yer gonna do... well, I figure that'd be a good thing, yeah? An' by the nine hells, who knows? Maybe ya'll get your castle back in order, an' then I'll take ya up on one of them rooms, yeah?"
Katahnia couldn't help but smile.
"So the rooms aren't currently to your liking then?" she laughed. "Though, I must regrettfully inform you I don't think this castle will ever come back to it's former glory."s he placed a hand to her stomach, sighing as her laughter faded away and she looked about the room.
"Though I suppose I honestly don't know what will become of me now. I'm technically suppose to be dead."
The word came out awkward, almost echoing like a spirit around them. She shivered and soon raised to her feet, stretching her arms about her as she made some noise.
"Though I suspect we might want to make more travel now, hrm?" she inquired. "Unless you want to rest up here for the night. We could see if there are anything left of any of the beds." Though, she frowned, realizing most seemed rotted through.
"Cuawyn.."s he said, after a time, peering over at him curiously. "What were you doing before you met with me?" she eyed his body, recalling some of his scars. "It seems you must've had a rough life." she smiled a little, although it seemed sadly. "You're also quite good with a sword, and in battle." her eyes turned to his, sparkling, though now with pure curiosity, and almost a bit of pity and concern.
"Well ya look pretty good for a dead girl, princess.." Cauwyn blurted without thinking. He flashed a quick grin and ducked his head with apologetically, "Sorry.." He knew how prudish she could be, like most noble women he imagined.
"Yeah," He sniffed and then looked around them once again before picking up his spear to help him stand, "it's probably best we start movin'. I'm not sure how far t' the next town or if they'll even have an inn.." With the help of the spear he managed to get to his feet, limping along as they traveled back to their newly acquired horse.
"Hmm?" He looked back at her and for a brief moment frowned before he could force it away, hiding behind a somewhat charming grin, "Before I found ya? Well, I've just sorta been travelin' the land. Tryin' to find myself a job that don't require such an...intimate knowledge of swords an' such.."
He left his grin in place as he turned his head, looking away from her before he let it fade away. How was he supposed to tell her about himself? If she knew what he was, or what he had done with his life, he doubted she would want to share county with him let alone the road. He considered lying to her, it came easily enough though he was by no means a true rouge. He also supposed he should have thought that she would ask him something like this sooner..
"Before that I..." He paused, still not looking back at her as he tended the horse. Well, more so he was checking straps on the saddle and bags even though they had been fine so far, "well, I made a livin' with my sword. A good one... an', well, I don't know. Guess I just kinda wanted t' know if, maybe, I could be good at somethin' else, yeah?"
He was pleased enough with his answer. It was the truth, but not too much of it. No details to scare her away. No stories of viciousness and rape, of destroying lives for money. Just a bleached, watered down version of the truth that would be harder to swallow.
OOC: Hope it's ok to move this forward a bit XD I can edit other wise if it's not~
She could tell the words, the story was like drinking vinegar for him. She smiled in return, thankful for him in sharing. It was only evident to her in his mannerisms as she gently touched his arm.
"THe world we live in is not as charming as the songs can make it," she spoke, attempting to comfort him. "I remember, growing up as a little girl...." she sighed, thinking back to those golden, warm days. "How life seemed so perfect, yet so fragile. You never know what you have until it's gone." HEr looks faded away, but she forced herself to smile.
"So you're looking for a new life?" she quirked a brow at him. "I suppose we're not all that different in our missions." she released a breath. "After all, I don't have much direction myself."
After she was done speaking, she gripped the saddlehorn, boots in the reigns before kicking her legs over in one easy motion. THen she turned towards Cauwyn. "Come, let's see where the road takes us." And she waited for him to join her before kicking the horse. They barely made it a few feet from the castle ruins just as the grey, swelling skies let go to a gentle rain.
The cold mist felt wonderful, she felt herself closing her eyes, enjoying the feeling as she kicked the horse, pressing him to run full gallop through it the mist. The feeling was maddening, a rush of wind and waters breathing against him, and her heart fluttering-
and she felt so carefree. Nothing else existed in that moment, except the thundering feel of the hooves beneath them, and the strong man holding his arms fast around her, rain melting her dress to her body like skin.
After a good hour, the rain, which had went from a fine mist, began to come down in thick, blinding sheets. They were thoroughly soaked, and it was only then she slowed the horse beneath a canopy of trees. It seemed they had finally found a road and she hesitated, clutching to the rains as she looked before them, then back to Cauwyn.
"Shall we press on?" she asked, water dripping down her facea nd nose, and slicked her hair against her scalp and neck, the length of it evne pressing like liquid, fiery gold against her clothes. "This road might lead us to a town."
Cauwyn smiled at her kind words, at a loss for any of his own. So he nodded and clambered up into the saddle behind her, trying his best to settle in a way that wouldn't make the ride too uncomfortable for him. Or for her.
At first he was against the gallop she had taken, it was a bit painful with his injures, but after only few minutes of riding her enjoyment of the freedom it gave them became contagious. He was practically grinning ear to ear as they road through the fine mist. There was no reason for dark thoughts now or a gruff exterior. He reveled in the feeling of the wind and the rain, of the feeling of Katahnia pressed close against him. His leather body kept most of the contact between them benign, but it didn't cover all of him and what he could feel was nearly enough. As the mist covered them beading off the leather of his armor and soaking into her dress he thought briefly of offering her the traveling cloak in his bag, but he didn't think she wanted to be covered from the rain any more than he did. The way it ran over them was beyond freeing. He could feel it loosen the dried blood and dirt of the road, letting it run down him in little rivulets as though it was going to wash away his sins.
When they stopped beneath the canopy of the tree Cauwyn let out a small, genuine laugh. He was holding her tight against him, maybe tighter than he needed to, and when he leaned forward to speak over her shoulder he caught a good whiff of her scent mixed with the rain. It was intoxicating. Almost as much so as the way her wet dress clung to her body and her hair plastered it's self to her skin. Now that the horse had stopped moving he shifted back slightly in the seat so that his lap wouldn't be pressed so hard against hers, a slightly disappointed groan escaping him at the loss of contact.
"Well," H said with a somewhat raw throat. He was full of need and it was much harder to control with her so close to him, but he managed with a slight struggle, "I'd say that would be for th' best..." He sighed as he looked up, and his mind wandered just a bit too far, "though I wouldn't mind layin' with ya here beneath th' trees..."
His words were smooth and truthful and, when he realized what he said, he nearly choked on his remission, "Uh, er, that's t' say camp, princess.. Uh, camp with ya, here, beneath th' trees.."
He looked up and away from her, his cheeks actually flushing a little with embarrassment. It was an odd feeling for him, something he wasn't used to. He was used to speaking his mind, especially to a woman, but she was different. More so than just the fact she was noble and unused to such a rough tongue.
"Beneath the trees in the rain?" she laughed, not realizing he was serious then slowly the playfuly smile twisted into another one as she raised her brows at him.
"You're serious?" she blinked, looking around them as she turned the horse into a circle. Halting it with the reigns, she glanced back to Cauwyn over her shoulder.
"I've never slept in the rains before." she smiled romantically over the idea. "I think if I were to do so now, I could hear my mother wagging her finger at me and tongue, telling me I'd catch my death."
she sighed over it though, but her smile broadened.
"Perhaps it would be wise, considering our day?" she let the horse's hoof clink once to the ground before guiding it back into the woods. "Let me know what sort of spot looks good!" she laughed over her shoulder. "I've never scouted for a place to sleep out in the wilds before."
And the idea was so.. exhilarating, dangerous and delightful and she could not help but continue to smile.
Cauwyn looked more surprised than pleased when she seemed to consider the idea, and Cauwyn was very pleased. Then he realized, as she laughed and spoke, that she had misunderstood him. Or, more to the point, understood what he had wanted her to think rather than what he meant. There was a flash of disappointment though he managed to keep his grin with her child-like wonder at the idea. The idea that she had never had to sleep in the rain before only made his grin widen, especially when she mentioned her mother. He couldn't imagine a noble woman being to pleased with the idea of her daughter sharing a camp with a rough man out in the rain.
"Oh yeah," He said with a pleased smile, holding up a hand to catch a bit of the rain, "sleepin' under the rain can be quite peaceful. An' safe, if ya know what your doin'. It hides your scent an' can break up any smoke from a campfire.."
"Hold this, yeah?" Cauwyn handed her his spear, the iron tip of which enchanted to stay sharp, and then leaned in against her reaching around to take the reigns. He guided the horse off the road and into the woods, searching for a bit before he found what he was searching for.
"Ah, here we go!" He exclaimed with some humor as they came upon a tight clustering of trees. The heavy boughs of which had bent and grown together to form a tight canopy in a rather small circle. He guided them closer and then slid down from the saddle, taking back his spear and then holding out a hand for Katahnia, "M'lady..." He spoke with a grin and small bow.
"This," He said gesturing to the pines, "is called a wayward pine.. The boughs link together an' grow thick, stayin' like this summer an' winter alike." He pushed aside the limbs to show her the soft bed made of pine needles below, "We can stay safe an' dry in here, an' if'n we find some lumber not too soaked we can make a nice fire t' stay warm an' maybe cook up some soup.."
As the man reached for the reigns, she let out a gentle noise as his body pressed to hers, her neck and cheeks flushing with color. FOr this, she was grateful for the rains, and remained quiet as he searched, finding herself preoccupied by the simple feeling of her body pressed even closer to his.
Then, when he found the place, she smiled, a genuine, broad smile with warm eyes and swollen cheeks. She took his hand, nodding to him as she replied, "Why, thank you, Sir Cauwyn," grinning widely at the idea of calling this ruffian, 'sir'. She swung her leg over to meet the other, so both legs hung at an angle at the side of the horse, her ripped skirts accentuating the soft, defined shapes of her legs.
She slipped off easily, guiding herself against his arm before landing softly beside him.
"It looks cozy," she replied, still remaining near him as she drew in a breath, takin gin the soft smells of rain.. and finding her nose being tickled and excited by his musk. Her blush remained, giving her a pretty coloring to her face as she released a breath.
"It's almost like a small home." and as she took a step forward, she paused herself, and turned around, inquiring. "But how would we start a fire with all this damp wood?" she also hd no idea how one would start a fire to begin with, and simply took the horses reigns and tethered it to a short branch nearby.
The black stallion went about, munching at a soft tuft of grass while Katahnia gently petted it's mane.
"Indeed how shall we?" Cauwyn asked with a grin in his best proper common, holding aside the branches to lead her inside. It was very cozy, small enough that they had to crouch inside of it. He sat down his spear and then unstrapped his shield leaning it against on of the trunks so he could get to his things inside it. He then moved around looking up at the boughs until he saw what he was looking for.
"Ah, here," He said, pointing up at the boughs. Light came through the layers, but they were overlapped such that the rain did not, "this is our chimney. It'll let the smoke out so we don't choke, an' help break it up.."
There wasn't much room and when he turned they were close. Very close. He smiled, enjoying the feeling of her so close against him and the way her scent mixed with the smell of the pine and the rain. He noticed her blush, but didn't think anything of it aside from how lovely it made her look.
"I'm going to go collect some wood. Under here, just clear out a circle in the pine needles a little bigger than a fire would need. That way we don't burn ourselves down.." And with that he slipped off into the rain again.
A short while later he returned with an arm full of branches and some few small logs cut with his axe. He began to set up the fire place, speaking to her as he went about what it was he was doing. He explained how to set the small branches around the logs. Then how to cut and set two holds for a spic and two more to hold the extra logs behind the fire away from them, explaining it would reflect the fire back and also dry the wood. Then he showed her the kindling, dry twigs from beneath other branches and dead wood from inside fallen logs and trees.
Setting the gatherings beneath the small tee-pee he had made of the driest twigs, he then pulled out a chip of flint and his dagger, signaling her closer with a nod of his head.
"Now we make a fire," He said in a warm tone with a bright half grin, holding the materials out to her, "if you'll do the honors."
It was a bit of shuffling in the confined space, but he came around behind her and reached around her taking both her arms in his from behind. He was so close all he could smell was her and he couldn't help but wish he was out of his armor if only to feel her body against his through much thinner clothes. Nothing at all would have been preferable, but he would settle for clothes.
"Now, ya just need t' strike the dagger against the flint. Firm an' steady, like peelin' an apple but faster.." He leaned around her more, pressing tighter against her, and tilted his head with a grin to look at her, "You have peeled an apple, yeah? Or did ya have servants for that?" He said jokingly.
She watched him with great interest to build the fire, amazed by the simplicity that nature could offer. Then as he moved behind her, she gave a slight gasp, but smiled, feeling a bit giddy she was able to participate.
"Are you sure you really want me to be helping?" then quirked her brow at the mention of the apple. "I tend to eat the skin clean off of it." But she raised her nose and simply replied, "I think I can manage." and moved with a quick, flick of her wrist as a spark jumped out, fluttering before her like gold stars falling from the sky. Her mouth went open, another gentle gasp as she saw it.
"Such a power as this!" she proclaimed, but it didn't catch fire on first try, the flames that did, quickly dieing out, so she struck again. "Oh no you don't, not when I got it on the first try!"s he scolded the tinders and soon the next batch of sparks took light, quickly burning up into a tiny flame.
Her green eyes watched it dance, entranced by the magic of it all that..
well..
she created fire without magic at all!
He was caught up in the moment. She seemed so innocent, so pure as she watched with rapt attention and then took to the flint and dagger. He hissed slightly at first and moved to touch her hands when she started striking faster, like a new father protective and nervous she would cut her self, but he stopped himself. When she had declared her challenge to the smoldering tender he had barely managed to contain his laughter, though a few tears had managed to well up. Now as the tender took to flame Cauwyn threw his arms up in the tent with joy.
"Ha-ha! Yes! Great job, princess!" Cauwyn exclaimed, obviously proud of her. He patted her on the shoulder, gentle so she didn't accidentally cut herself, and then leaned around her show her his beaming proud smile, "You've created your first fire! Hells woman, ya did better than most men I know! Now ya.. Oh! Oh!"
The tender hissed and popped, but with the dampness it was already starting to dwindle down. Placeing one large calloused hand over the hand of Katahnia's that held the dagger so that neither of them got stabbed by accident, he leaned in and gave it a little blow before craning his head down and over to speak to her, "Like this! Soft, gentle blowing.. Gotta keep it hot!" He blew once more, his final demonstration, and then leaned back out of the way for her to take charge once again.
Though he no longer needed to be close to her, and certainly not so close that they were touching as they were, he couldn't bring himself to move back. There wasn't a lot of room to begin with, but there was enough that they could each have space. He chose to stay close however, a single hand moving to rest against her back just between the shoulder blades.
"There ya go, blow nice and gentle on it," He spoke softly, caringly, "then just give it a little push under all them sticks. Not to hard, slow and gentle.."
OOC: Never realized how perverted starting a fire could sound until I wrote it out... :p
OOC: Lol, I was thinking the same thing XD~
IC:
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh as he blew at the thing, but then her eyes widened as the fire came to life.
"It's like your breath as a spell on it,"S he commented, then when he informed her to give it a try, she blushed, realizing their closeness,but laughed it off and bent over low, lips near the ground, but the rest of her body still remaining beneath his as she drew in a breath, puckered out her lips softly and blew.
The fire grew, flickering as a wild reflection in the depths of her eyes. She did it again, mesmerized by the ever growing, crackling flame. THen she recalled he had used his hands to cup around it, and she adjusted herself, just slightly and blew, again, then again, then held her breath, watching the fire take light.
A smile consumed her face as she slowly lifted herself away, now pressed and nuzzled beneath his body as she felt her heart fluttering to have returned to it, a cozy and comfortable position in their cozy make shift home of pine.
She sighed contentedly, even letting herself rest against him, dazzled by his scent mixed with pine and the fresh scents of the burning flame. She stared affectionately as the warmth of the fire took light, growing steadily before them into a gentle flame. It truly was a magical moment.
Finally, after a time she turned to him.
"Thank you."s he said quietly, blushing as she recalled their proximity, his face so close, never realizing how handsome he looked, especially with the fresh glow of fire, and something else upon his face. Turning away, she finally moved from him, but only with enough room to gesture towards the fire.
"There, we did it. A fire's brewing."
And maybe another fire, as well...
OOC: *Snicker*
OOC: Wow, super sorry about the time delay! I thought I had posted late last night and then, when I checked on the thread, I saw it wasn't there!
Cauwyn sat in muted silence, simply...enjoying. There was the view of her leaned forward blowing on the flames. He might not have been in the best position to see, but he was certainly in the best position to feel. And then she leaned back, back against him! He felt the tension in his body relax, fading away for that brief moment when he sat with her against him, his arms naturally wrapping around her wet body, as they watched the fire in silence.
When she finally spoke it seemed to break the trance, though more it may have been that she moved away from him. He flashed a sheepish smile and ducked his head in a rather boyish gesture, "Bah, it was nothin'.. But, your welcome.." He finally did say, if only because he felt it would be rude not to.
With space between them, however small, Cauwyn decided it was time to take advantage of it. He twisted slowly, his muscles sore and aching, and then started releasing the buckles on his armor. He wouldn't be sleeping in it, not comfortably at least, and if there was a chance they might be next to each other again he was damn well going to feel it! All of it!
OOC: That's ok XD it happens
and ugh, the typos in my last post... sorry for those!
XD~ oh well
D: and sorry this post is kinda short
IC:
Noticing him working at her armor, she tried to move, positioning herself on the other side of the fire, but now, without his body there, she felt the chill of the night against it and shivered. She then made herself busy, fussing over her hair, drawing the silver brush through it and pulling away any knots. Turning her back towards him, to give him more privacy, and also to let the fire work at drying her hair, she finally spoke,
"I suppose you've spent many hours alone in the woods before?"
She could only assume so much, and kept steadily brushing her hair, slow and soft, if, for any reason now, but to keep herself preoccupied, enjoying the gentle crackle and warmth of the fire.
"Oh yeah," Cauwyn grunted and groaned as he peeled away his layers of protection. His hands, like the rest of him, were sore and his fingers still tingled a little, but Cauwyn was used to it. For as many straps and buckles it took to secure the armor to himself and to it's self, his practiced hands made short work out of it as he spoke to her back, "quite a bit. Recently at least. Used t', well, there were others... We camped together, in tents an' such.." He flashed a quick grin at her from behind, "Don't want ya t' think I'm too much a savage! I do stay at inns an' such when the opportunity affords it's self.."
The armor finally doffed, he tucked it away neatly near his shield opposite the side of the fire. Then came the suede quilted jerkin he wore beneath his armor and the matching pants. Both were removed, with some effort, and placed closer to the fire to dry. This left him in a pair of light linen pants and top, both of which were equally soaked. Cauwyn scooted himself closer back to the fire.
"You make a hell of a fire princess," He said with a grin, clapping his hands and rubbing them together over the flames. He was about to say more when his stomach let out what started as a quiet rumble but grew into a loud growl. His cheeks, for the second time, went red and he turned quickly so that she couldn't see, "Ah, heh... sorry 'bout that. Maybe I aught see if there's some provisions in that saddle, yeah?"
Upon seeing him in rain and sweat soaked linens, she found herself staring for a time. It wasn't as though it was her first time seeing....... ok, so perhaps it was. A woman, so refined, would never have dreamed about finding herself so close to a man in meager clothing- all of which hugged the muscles of his form as the fire's hot breath illuminated it beneath the clothe.
Then his stomach let out a rumble and she had to laugh, but then, her's replied the same, giving a softer, more airy gurgle.
"I suppose you're not the only one who's hungry." she chuckled again then turned towards him, light playfully dancing within her eyes. "And I suppose if there isn't anything, I could wait until morning."s he set the brush down, running fingers through her hair before stealing a quick glance towards him,t hen his pile of armor. It was a curious thing, the layers and she idly found herself twisting at a stray lock of hair.
He was, unfortunately, too busy hiding his face by curious study of a pile of pine needles that he didn't even notice her look. He did however notice the rumble of her stomach and as if that shared bond took away his bashfulness Cauwyn returned his attention to her with a broad, lopsided grin. When she said she could wait however, Cauwyn waved away the idea with flick of a bruised hand.
"Never!" He proclaimed loudly speaking in his best proper common, "I would be a most terrible knight, I did not feed m'lady!" He chuckled loudly, his words then slipping back into the dirtier common speak of the lowborn, "An' 'sides, it'd be pretty rude of me t' steal ya away from your castle an' not at least feed ya. We'll see what we got first though, yeah?"
And with that he crawled out from under the walls of their make-shift cottage and back into the rain. Where his clothes had begun to dry by the fire, the steady fall of rain soaked them anew and plastered them against the hard muscle and scar tissue beneath. A few moments of digging found at least some promising items and he found himself crawling back in with a smile and a small bundle of goodies in tow.
"Some luck," He mentioned as he sat up on his knees before scooting closer to the fire so she could see. He was juggling his finds in the crooks of both arms and each item he named was sat on the ground between them, "I found a cookin' pot which is collectin' some water, then some dried meats that look like deer, a few potatoes, a onion, two carrots...well, three carrots but one had succumbed t' mold so I gave it t' the horse, a spoon an' a fork, some soldiers bread, halfa wheel of cheese, an' a wineskin!" The wineskin he didn't set down, instead holding it out to her for the first sip. Like a true gentleman, "Don't know how good s'gonna be, but it's better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick, yeah?"
OOC: I... am... so... tired I shouldn't post @_@
so forgive me if it's short and incomprehensible!
IC:
Katahnia watched as he left, debating whether or not to follow, but smiled softly, blushing almost with glee at the very idea of him acting as a gentleman. Even though he was playing pretend, a small part of her appreciated the actual sincerity behind it- after all, even if he was jesting, he was still carrying through with the act.
When he returned, she gave him a bashful smile, eyes sparkling like the evening stars when reflected against a moonlit breath of the sea.
When he handed her the goatskin, she blinked, looking at the thing with subtle curiosity. She had never attempted to drink from such an object, though was aware of their cause and purpose, nd stared at it with wonder for a moment before trying it, but she seemed to nearly choke on the wine.
"Oh, by the Gods, this stuff is awful!" she exclaimed, wrinkling her nose and sticking out her tongue, then wiping off her mouth and lips if to be rid of it before shivering.
"You can have the rest. You might enjoy it more anyways."S he informed him, and donned the same bashful smile as before.
"But thank you."s he told him, smiling at him sheepishly, cheeks a glow with a beautiful blush. "I don't know how I'll ever thank you for all of the kindness you've shown me here today. I know it can't be easy to find yourself suddenly confronted with such a burden."
Cauwyn couldn't help but chuckle at the reaction she made to the wine. When she offered the skin back Cauwyn took it, giving it a sniff before taking a long pull from the wineskin. His lip twitched slightly as swallowed it down, but other than that he simply shrugged and looked back to Katahnia with a soft grin, "I've had worse. An' besides, we don't have many options when it comes t' drinkin'. 'Specially out here, princess. Most of the water in towns is brackish at best.." He held up the skin and gave it a little wiggle, "wine-cut water is about th' cheapest thing for a travelin' drink.." But he wouldn't force it on her, simply sitting the skin down between them incase she changed her mind.
"Alright," Cauwyn clapped his hands together with excitement and then picked up one of the potatoes. He eyed it over, making sure it wasn't too rotten, and then held it out, "How 'bout you start cuttin' up this stuff an' I'll go get th' pot ready? Th' meats already been treated, so we'll just have t' wait on the vegetables 'fore we can eat.."
"You want me to cut this up?" Katahnia blinked, staring down at the potato as if it were some foreigner she had just met for the first time. She turned it over, examining it. "I suppose I could use my knife, but how should one cut such a peculiar rock?"
She had no idea this is what a potato looked like in it's raw form. Sure, she had seem them diced up before, prepared even with the skins, but never so freshly coated with dirt and raw before.
OOC: Sorry, another special post XD but I couldn't resist her not knowing what to do with a potato. They Do look weird, after all! XD
and she's used to seeing them all delicious and cooked with cream and seasoning!
OOC: Holy crap I'm SOOO glad you fought through your tired for that! I laughed a bit of coffee out of my nose!!
IC:
Cauwyn was already on hands and knees crawling toward the exit when he heard the confusion in her voice. None of it registered however until she said the word rock. He froze with eyes wide and his mouth open. Was she serious? He turned slowly until he faced her, not even trying to hide his shock. When he looked from her, to the potato and then back to her seeing that she was indeed serious Cauwyn couldn't help himself.
He busted out into laughter. Not a giggle or a more manly chuckle, but full out laughter. He laughed so hard it hurt, which wasn't hard to do in his current state but still! He had known she was sheltered and knew there were some things he had to teach her before she would ever have a chance in the world, but this took him completely by surprise.
Cauwyn clutched his injured ribs as the laughter began to die down. His lip had started leaking blood again, but it was worth it. With his free hand he reached up and wiped away the tears from his eyes all while shuffling closer to her on his knees..
"Oh...oh, Ansgars cock that was funny..Oh, whew!" He sniffed, trying to contain himself as he stared at her, "That... that rock, princess, is a potato. That, uh... heheh, that's what they look like when they come fresh from the ground.." A thought hit him and then he looked down at the other vegetables and then back to her, "I don't suppose you've never seen a food 'fore it was prepared for ya, yeah?"
Katahnia stared at Cauwyn..
as he laughed..
and laughed...
and laughed...
and laughed...
And... LAUGHED!
"Cauwyn!" she exclaimed, though huffy, she couldn't help but smile through her blush. Gods, it was infectious! Shaking her head, she simply gasped when he told her what it was.
"A potato!" Oh! Now did she ever feel foolish as she paled, face falling as she became appalled.
Turning away, she shifted uncomfortably, not sure what to make of this now embarrassing moment, but when he turned to her and began to explain things, she simply sighed.
"Yes, I've been somewhat sheltered," she admitted bitterly, averting his gaze. "But you must realize, I lived in another world. I had servants. I was never shown how to cook, as that was the cook's job- as my time was devoted elsewhere."
She turned to him embarassedly, before looking away and down at the raw vegetables.
OOC:
XD
And that comment made it worth it!
lol!
"Aw, princess.." Cauwyn said still grinning, though there was some sympathy in his voice. He hadn't meant to embarrass her. Though if he thought about it, that was really the only logical reaction of laughing in someones face. Still, he sighed and shook his head, "It's alright t' not know shit 'bout the outside, I guess. Not as long as ya wanna learn, yeah?"
He offered a more comforting smile than his grin had been, "When I was a kid, I was taught t' dress wounds an' cook food. How t' care for weapons an' armor, an' how t' kill men. That was how I was raised, they're the skills I have.." He shook his head again as even the smile faded. His voice hardened then as he squared his shoulders and leveled a somber look at her, "But I refuse t' believe that is all I am. An' were I only what I knew, I can guarantee ya princess we wouldn't be havin' this conversation. Don't think ya'd even really be wantin' to talk t' me at all.."
He let out a breath, a sigh that took with it his somber tone and tensed muscles. His grin returned as he gestured to the potato, "An' I'll show ya, but don't think that means I ain't gonna laugh when ya say shit like that! Think 'bout it like if I went t' one of them fancy parties you nobles have? I pro'lly would be the laughin' stock of the whole castle!"
OOC: D'awww- they're kinda cute together, ain't they? XD
IC:
Katahnia raised her green eyes to meet his, listening to him in silence as he spoke. His attitude played on her heart strings as she felt sympathy for him and soon her lips were drawing into a small smile.
"I suppose you are right." she moved closer to him, touching his arm gently as her smile widened for him. "It's hard to believe how we've come from different worlds, yet here we are, sharing it together."
When she realized her choice of words, she felt herself blush as she pulled her gaze sheepishly away, staring down at the pine needles.
"That is, to say,.." she hesitated, then looked back to him.
"Thank you for letting me know a bit about your history. I can't imagine how I'd feel, having grown up like that." She hesitated, before adding. "I was very lucky."
OOC: Yep yep!!
IC:
"I don't know about that.." Cauwyn said with an amused smirk, leaning in close as he looked into her eyes, "Seems ya might have starved out here.." His smirk split into a grin and Cauwyn gave Katahnia a wink. They were so close right then. A sudden urge, similar to other urges he'd been having, leapt up through him. He started to move forward before he had time to think, stopping himself only just before he had forced his lips on hers. His cheeks instantly flushed as he rocked back on his knees.
"Whoa, whew!" Cauwyn forced a chuckle, running a hand over his face and looking away, "Almost, uh, fell there.. Sorta lost m' balance, yeah?" He peaked over to see if she was buying it, but continued anyway, "Musta, ya know, been all them blows t' the head earlier.. Whew.."
He sucked in a breath between his teeth and then looked back out under the edge of the wall made by the low hanging boughs. After holding it for a second he finally breathed out the breath in a heavy sigh, "Think I better, ya know, get the pot an' all, yeah. Out in the nice cold rain.."
He'd almost lost himself, and it made him angry. Not just at him, but at her. Sitting there all innocent and pretty, all helpless and soft and smelling so good. The way her hair framed her face and her dress hugged her body torn up in such a lovely.. Cauwyn stopped when he realized where his mind was going and what it was doing to him. It was most certainly not helping anything, especially considering he wasn't wearing anything more than a soaked pair of linens. "Yep!" He practically blurted in a voice a bit higher in pitch than normal, "yep, best get out in that rain.. Get me that pot an' what not..."
OOC: omg.. lol
That post... XD
Now I have to thin of a reply! D:
*8|
IC:
Katahnia tensed, eyes widening when he drew near-
then felt herself almost emotionally slapped the moment he pulled away. Her heart was beating heavily, face burning a fierce blush as she realized a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding.
Then he went on rambling, her mind not quite catching up to what he was saying until she blinked.
Fall.. oh! His condition! She frowned, after realizing she had been staring him and- GOODNESS, what was wrong with his-
her eyes quickly averted to her lap.
"Perhaps you should lay down? I can tend to the fire while you sleep," she offered, finding herself too.. distracted, hot and bothered to be hungry any longer.
She also still felt remorseful, not being able to help him in his suffering.
"I just so wish there was something I could do to help. My mother used to preach about the good in magic, and now, what good can it do when it is useless against someone I wish to help?"
Then she rose herself off the floor.
"Here, allow me to fetch the water,"s he offered, moving towards him as she gently touched his arm.
"A nap? Oh no, no, no.." He stopped his forward crawl to look back at her. It wasn't as though the area they had was that big, but damn did it seem like getting out and into the rain was so far away! "No, I couldn't possibly... I got t' get the pot, ya know? Then cut up the vegetables.. Uh, I'll, ya know, show ya, yeah?"
It made enough sense to buy him time he thought, Cauwyn turning to crawl again. Only then to be stopped by her sad words. He rolled his eyes where she couldn't see. It wasn't that he didn't care, or that he wasn't touched by her words. It just wasn't the kind of touch he was wanting right then. He turned his head back over his shoulder to look at her, flashing a small smile, "Princess, I appreciate the thought. I do, really. But I'll be fine, I promise. Besides, a bit of pain keeps ya honest, yeah? Makes sure ya remember next time t' be faster an'...stuff." Sue him. His brain wasn't working on all cylinders and maybe some of that even did have something to do with the beating.
"What?!" He sounded almost alarmed as he reached the edge of their cozy little cutaway. He was so close! He could feel the cold rain coming down on his hand as it reached to push the boughs aside. Cauwyn looked back over his shoulder at her, flashing a sheepish grin as his mind worked furiously to come up with something that worked, "Ah, uh.. Nah, it's, uh... no problem. Hells woman, I couldn't ask you to go out in the rain! It...uh, would be inappropriate?" He really hoped that made sense.
She only grew closer though, which certainly didn't help his -er- affliction, which he tried to hide from her by twisting himself to keep his back between her and his lap. It wasn't easy to do. His movements stopped though when he felt her hand on his arm. Everything seemed to fade away a moment as he turned his head to look up at her face. By the gods was that a beautiful face...
"You needn't worry about me," she told him with a smile. "The way I see it, we're both already soaked by the rains, princess or not." Could she deny she thought it was a darling phrase that he used against her by now? She drew in a breath, pushing past him and finding herself out in the rain.
The cold water was refreshing, the air, light and soft with the mists of water that fell from the air, mixed with the scent of earth and pine- the feeling was a subtle heaven. She didn't know why the sudden exposure made her draw in a breath with a shiver as she cupped out her hands to collect some rain. But, once she realized she was becoming distracted by such a simple notion of nature, she only smiled at herself, cheeks still glowing with a blush as she moved forward-
to halt dead in her tracks.
Water.. she was supposed to get water but then realized...
Where would hse procure it!?
Damnable woman! She certainly wasn't making it easy on him Cauwyn mused as he watched her disappear out into the rain. The rain that he had so much wanted, needed, to be a part of. He turned over fully until he was in a sitting position leaning back and resting on his hands. The linen allowed for the vision of blotches to peak through, though they were barely visible outlines. Thankfully he hadn't cleaned them, or any of his clothes really, in quite a while. The stains of blood and sweat and grime had darkened them enough to keep them from being completely see through.
When she didn't immediately return with the pot he had hung from a branch near where the horse was tethered he really didn't pay any attention. Instead he considered his options, entertained some thoughts and even considered-rectifying-his little situation. Of course, that was kind of hard to do when you didn't know how long a person would be gone. The look on her face would be priceless he thought, were he not absolutely sure she would never speak to him again.
As still more time passed, Cauwyn managed to shake his rather distracting thoughts of the duchess and her wet torn dress to realize she still hadn't returned. He frowned slightly but then, as he considered the idea maybe she didn't know what pot looked like, it turned into a small smirk. Then back into a frown as he gave it a second consideration looking back toward the pine-bough wall.
"Hells.." Cauwyn mumbled and then rolled over to crawl back out into the rain to see if he could find her.
Katahnia had found the pot, as the device seemed obvious for containing water to cook (she had seem some of these devices before!) but to find water to fill it, well, that was another story!
She held it out a moment in the rain, but frowned when she realized, it would take all night for it to fill this way. Sighing, she moved to return back to the tree, when she nearly walked into-
"Cauwyn!" She ran into him- pot in hand, and the thing fell into the mud- releasing the minimal amount of rain water she had collected.
Blushing, she bent over to pick up the pot.
"Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't think you'd follow." frowning, she hugged onto the pot and looked at him. "This is rather embarrassing of me to ask, but I do not know where to procure the water to fill this up."s he informed him lamely.
"Ack!" Cauwyn was just as surprised as her as they ran into each other. He fumbled for the pot but wasn't nearly fast enough. The small splash of water that came out was disheartening as well. He reached over and patted her gently on the shoulder, flashing an apologetic smile, "Sorry 'bout that, just came to check on ya was all.."
The smile turned into a frown as he looked up at the overcast sky. The air was full of misting rain, but it certainly wasn't coming down fast or hard enough to fill the pot like he had hoped. Though it was still doing a fine job of soaking the two of them. Cauwyn forced himself to make, and keep, eye contact with Katahnia as he spoke.
"Well, princess, I gotta tell ya I think I'm in the same boat.." He offered up a small grin and a sheepish shrug, holding out both hands up to the rain, "I'd hoped the rain would work, but it don't seem to be comin' down fast enough.."
Still frowning he looked around them at the forest, trying to see if it sloped downhill at any point. It may mean a nearby water source, even if only a small stream, "We need t' find some water. I mean, I'd say we could use the wineskin..." He sighed, "but then we wouldn't have nothin' to drink.." He looked back to her again and again forced himself to maintain eye contact, "These are your lands, yes? Do you know of any water nearby?"
"I suppose I should know this land better," she sighed and looked around, frowning even as the land seemed just as foreign to her as any else. "I think we've traveled south. I spent more of my days riding to the west of the castle. The land tended to be safer and more tame there." She studied him a moment, then began to look around, hoping something would look like a landmark. It was only then she noted a peculiar rock off in the distance.
"Oh.." she took a step towards it with interest. "Though I might be onto something. You see that rock over there? The one that looks like a bear?" And if one were to use their imagination enough, the rock might have seemed like the wild grizzly creature. "Perhaps a crude interpretation of one, but when I was little, I remember playing over there." she smiled. Though the rock seemed a ways away, she was glad to have spotted it.
Tucking her hair aside, she turned to Cauwyn.
"If we travel towards it, there was a small creek and water fall on a nearby cliff side. It would be some travel from here, but it would at least provide a landmark and a way to procure water."
She lifted up the pot.
"If you'd like, you can remain here while I go fetch it. I don't mind the walking. And the rain feels nice."
Cauwyn looked at the rock and squinted. He studied it for a moment, frowning in deep thought, until he finally saw the outline shape of a bear. The frown all but disappeared as he straitened with a grin, looking over at Katahnia and giving her a solid nod, "Yeah, I see it now. I bet as a kid, it was pretty fun to play around, yeah?" He hadn't had much time, if any, to play as a child. It still hadn't stopped him though, in those brief moments he'd had, from imagining friends and dangerous quests to complete with them.
When she offered to go alone, Cauwyn tensed. He didn't want her to go by her self, and he almost volunteered to go in her stead but she knew the land better. Someone would have to stay to watch the horse and their stuff, not to mention the fire. He also, though he wouldn't admit it, didn't want to be away from her. Part of it was a budding sense of protectiveness over the girl. The other, probably larger part, is that he just plain liked being near her. She smelled nice and was great to look at, even if he had to be sneaky about it.
"Well..." Cauwyn frowned, not liking it but feeling somewhat forced. His body did ache and his leg was killing him just standing on it, "I guess I could stay here.. Watch the fire an' what not. You won't be gone long will ya? An' if there's any trouble, you'll holler, yeah?"
Kathania couldn't help but smile at his sense of worry for her.
"I should be alright." Though the rock was far enough away if she ran into trouble... she wasn't sure if screaming would alert anyone in time. She turned towards the rock, studying it for a moment and cast the thought aside.
"I'll be quick." then she turned towards the horse and patted it's nose gently, smiling as it nuzzled her. "We should get the horse more to eat as well. Perhaps I could find something when I'm over by the rock."
She turned back to Cauwyn and gave him a warm smile.
"Don't worry about me too much," and she fetched as sword from the horse, unsheathing it, gently and slow, before taking the tip and pointing it directly at Cauwyn's chest.
"I can take this sword with me. My father taught me a thing or two about sword play," though the way she held it in her hand, and the way she was poised before him, showed merely the grace of a woman, of a dancer.
"Any man or beast who tries to touch me," she said, crossing the sword gently in the air before Cauwyn.
"I'll cut him across the chest, then take out his tongue!" she grinned, slicing lightly at the air before his mouth before taking a step backwards, lightly on the ball s of her feet before giving him a playful smirk.
"I don't even think the great Cauwyn, last night of Harmond, could survive a battle against my sword!"
When Katahnia's pulled the sword free and pointed it at him, Cauwyns first reaction was to tense. His muscles hardened into sinewy coils beneath the rain soaked linen shirt. He still looked lose and limber, ready to move at the first sign of attack. His hands were relaxed, open and ready. It was an automatic reaction at the sight of the sword point. His grin never faded however, cool and confident in his own ability to stave off any attack the girl might point at him.
As she spoke and moved however Cauwyn forced himself to relax, his muscles slackening and his grin growing. When she made a mock strike at the air in front of his lips he pulled his head back slightly, holding up a hand in surrender and chuckled, "Easy princess.." Cauwyn smirked, reaching out to touch the blade tip and gently push it down so it wasn't between them, "I have no want t' try my luck against a warrior as mighty as you. I've done a lot, but I ain't never survived bein' turned into a stone.."
He eyed her stance, the way she moved gracefully, practically dancing with the blade. He'd seen people fight like that before, usually elves. Bryn had been like that, more speed and grace rather than strength and power. He furrowed his brows slightly, his smirk fading into a more critical look as he assessed her, "Ya got moves princess, but that ain't the right sword for ya. Not if your gonna be dancin' around like that.. To heavy.." His smile returned as he gave her a small nod. "Your pa was right t' teach ya the sword, your gonna need that out on the road. But, I think, we need t' get ya a better one. More suited to yer style an' weighted for ya.."
"In fact," Cauwyn straitened a little, "when ya get back an' while the soups cookin', maybe we'll practice a little? See if'n ya can't give me some pointers, yeah?" He smirked at that, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Katahnia's smile grew wider, nearly exploding clean off her lips as she let out a soft laugh.
"And you see fit to try and teach me?" she held up the blade towards him, pointing it again at his chest, green-blue eyes sparkling with mirth. "But you are right with the blade," she twirled it once, a soft breath escaping at the effort as she turned the blade away, wobbling it within her hands to test the weight.
"It is more of a barbarian's blade.."s he commented, smirkign over towards him before placing it back into the sheath. "But it's a better defense than nothing." She said, playfully jutting out her chin before turning away.
"I shant be long."She picked up the pot, but her horse gave a snort through it's nose, as if in protest and she couldn't help but smile.
"Now, now, I won't be gone for long,"s he reminded the beast, petting it's nose affectionately. "But Cauwyn will be here to watch over you." she peered over at Cauwyn from over her shoulder, smiling at him as the horse gave a snort. She couldn't help but laugh. "No, really, you're in good hands!" she laughed again, and the beast pawed impatiently at the ground. Sighing, she moved away from the animal and turned towards Cauwyn, shrugging.
"The horse will just have to deal with your company as I have," she shrugged playfully at him again before whirling away and moving off into the wood, heading towards the bear shaped rock.
"I"ll try to hurry!" she called over towards him, reassuringly, taking a moment to admire his strong standing form in the rain. She had never had the freedom to express herself as much as she did in the presence of Cauwyn, and she was finding it... rather intriguing and fun. Had her mother still been alive, she'd get quite the tongue lashing over the series of events. But could a girl help it if she liked to tease a rather handsome stranger she had but met and saved her life?
It was sort of a ... romantic idea, and her cheeks burned softly as she went off to get the water.
It didn't take as long as she suspected to find the source of the water, a clean, cool stream brewing off the side of the mountain. She passed by the bear shaped rock, admiring it with a crane of her neck and recalled some of the more fun times in her youth.
At the stream, she bent over and filled the pot with as much water as she could, grunting when she realized the weight of it, and began heading back towards the tree, her heart almost sailing as she did, fluttering almost as she anticipated some sword play with the man.
It seemed the evening might become more and more interesting after all....
BUt the walk back was becoming much longer than the walk towards the stream, and it was after twenty minutes she had to place the pot down, wondering if she had gotten lost.
Frowning, she wiped at her brow, leaned against a nearby, slender pine and began to examine the trail she had been taking.
Was their camp this pine, or that one? But taking in the scent of fire only lead her to believe she was close, but she was no wolf-
unlike the animals she heard howling deep within the woods.
Gasping,s he turned around, eyes moving into the dark. There was enough moonlight through the misted rain, making the forest seem eerie; and either cursed or enchanted. She breathed a sigh of relief as she did not spot the wolves and moved back to pick up the pot, picked another direction to go in and was elated to finally see the camp coming into view....
And she smiled, the horse let out a snort, pawing at the ground excitedly.
"Oh, alright,"s he said, approachign the horse after setting the pot aside and gently petting it's nose. It seemed to like that. "I came back, just as I promised, and it seems Cauwyn made sure none of those wolves sought out to eat you."
The horse twitched it's ear. Katahnia couldn' t help but smile, but hten when the horse spotted the pot, it bent it's head down, lips slobbering about ready to gobble it up!
"Hey!" Katahnia cried, snatching the pot away. THe horse still tried to reach for it. She had to smile.
"I guess you must be thirsty.."s he said, petting it's nose then sighed, turning over her shoulder to look for Cauwyn. "Cauwyn, I've got the water!" she stated excitedly, setting the pot aside, and out of the horses way as she rushed to his side. "What are you doing anyways? You left the horse out here, all lonely, and I didn't even have my knight to greet me! It is only proper a knight should rise in the presence of a lady."
"Seems you made yourself friend, princess." Cauwyn chuckled at the horses reaction to her leaving. When it snorted at him though his eyes narrowed a bit in challenge and Cauwyn made a few faces at the horse when Katahnia wasn't looking, always flashing back to an innocent grin whenever she would look back at him. He really did feel bad about letting Katahnia go alone to fetch the water, but he also felt very sore. Cauwyn stepped up closer to her with a small smile, looking between her and the horse, "I'll take care of the beast, don't worry none. Won't let no harm come to 'im.."
As she started to bounce away calling back to him, Cauwyn watched after her shouting back, "Alright! Be safe! Holler if ya need me!" But by the time he'd finished she was probably already to far away to hear him. It was just him and the horse and when Cauwyn turned to look at it after she was gone from view, the horse was just staring at him with those dark eyes.
"What?" He snipped in challenge, to which the horse snorted. Cauwyn scowled at the animal, "Don't get all uppity with me, horse! If it were up t' me I'd gut ya and eat you for dinner!" The animal looked rather unimpressed with Cauwyns false threats, which also caused Cauwyn to scowl even more, "I would! An' don't look so smug, I don't see the princess sleepin' with you either ya dumb beast!"
The horse simply lowered it's head to graze, pawing at the ground some with it's hoof. Cauwyn could tell the animal did it on purpose, snubbing him like that. He turned with a grumble about horse meat and crawled back inside their little wayward pine. Cauwyn checked the fire and set about cleaning the food as best he could with the heavy mist then cutting up the potatoes, carrots and onion. Then he had little to do but wait.
When the wolves began to howl, Cauwyn grew nervous. Not because he had any fear of the wolves for himself, but because he feared for Katahnia. Drawing his ax he stepped outside, shared a worried look with the horse, and then walked the perimeter. Satisfied it was clear of wolves and worried because she hadn't come back yet, Cauwyn returned to the tree to gather his things.
He was in the middle of strapping on his belt and baldric when he heard Katahnia approach. He sighed with relief feeling the tension in his body slip away at the knowledge of her safe return. He unbuckled his belt and baldric and returned it to the rest of his pile of gear, unaware that when Katahnia came in it really looked like he hadn't done anything while she was gone.
"What?" Cauwyn blinked, surprised and sheepish as he tried to explain, "No, I was.." He gestured lamely to his things and then, looking back and seeing her smirk, he sighed and his lips split into a grin. "I rise plenty for ya, princess." He quipped with a rather wolfish grin before rising to a bow and sweeping out his hand with a flourish, "M'lady. Ever am I pleased t' see your safe return.."
Katahnia laughed, shaking her head at his jests.
"Such a noble knight!"
She picked up the pot again with a grunt,a nd began carrying it towards their temporary home of pine. "I'll set this by the fire," she informed. "But you'll have to walk me through the rest." she peered over at him, her hair, once again, wildly plastered about her face. "Lest you forget this 'princess' has never been trained in the fine arts of cooking."
Leaving him with just the impression of a smile, she bent over and dragged the pot to the fire, resting it beside before dropping to her knees before it with a sigh.
She dind't realized how chilly she was until the fire's glow began to warm her flesh.
Rubbing her hands together, she extended them out and over the flames, smiling at how well maintained Cauwyn had kept it.
"So what about preparing those vegetables?"s he asked, peering over her shoulder towards the man.
Cauwyn moved to help her with the pot, but stopped himself. Instead he simply watched with an amused smirk. It wasn't often you got to see a noble woman do manual labor and though it was little more than carrying a pot of water, it was enough to be somewhat satisfying. He was noble enough, at least, to hid his smirk when she looked back at him.
"They're ready.." He said with a gesture toward the cut up vegetables and potatoes sitting on the small wooden bowl. He moved over next to her by the fire, holding them up so she could see them, "See here, how the potatoes are cut into squares? Makes 'em cook easier. An' the carrots ya just sorta cut along the length into circles. Cuttin' an onion can be difficult, if'n your tryin' to make a fancy meal, but I just sort cut it how I wanted.." He gave a small humble shrug and then flashed her a smile again.
"Cookin' soups the easy part. Ya just make sure your spic, that's this piece," He held up the stout branch he'd cut earlier, "is sturdy an' then ya put it through the handle of the pot. Then, ya put it on the little holders.." Cauwyn moved as he spoke, showing Katahnia as he explained each step of the process. Once the pot was settled above the fire he grinned, "An' now, ya just put in your ingredients and wait.." With that he dumped the bowl into the water.
"Now, usually if your tryin' to be more fancy ya would add spices an the meat would be fresher an' still have bones, 'cause it makes the soup thicker an' tastes better. But, we ain't got that so we just gotta deal with what we got.." Cauwyn dropped in a few chunks of the treated meat that had also been in the saddle bag.
"Not to hard, is it princess?" He asked with a grin giving her a solid pat on the back, "We'll just have t' stir it every so often t' make sure nothin' burns to the pot. And by we, I 'course mean you.." Still grinning he held up the little wooden spoon.
Katahnia blinked as the spoon was handed to her. She looked mildly offensive, than yanked the thing from him with a laugh, pointing it squarely at his chest as she prodded him with it.
"You trust me to handle the cooking like a servant or maid?" she inquired, her eyes sparkling amusedly. Her grin drew wider across her lips. "Perhaps I'll just make the best soup you have ever tasted." she said, then moved over, positioning herself in a crouch above the pot and began to stir the vegetables around with interest. The water was only beginning to steam, for it would take some time for the water to bubble, despite it being over a tumble of flames.
"I'm still baffled how it must have been like to grow up around this sort of thing."s he sighed at the thought. "I grew up with almost everything catered to my needs." A small smile graced her lips as she continued to stir the pot contentedly. "Though I suppose this what normal people ought to do."
"I don't know, ya might make a pretty good made or servant.. Ah, or a wench! I'm sure ya'd be a great bar wench!" Cauwyn chuckled when she jabbed him with the spoon and he through his hands up in surrender, "I'll hold ya to that, princess! I may have grown up on camp food, but I've had some damn hearty soups in my time!"
Cauwyn leaned over and watched her stir the pot. The water wasn't even boiling yet and he debated telling her that she didn't have to stir the entire time, but with a smirk he decided he would wait on that. Still smirking, though more so now at her comment, cawing chided slightly, "Not just ought to do, but have to. No one serves ya food out here, well, not unless your in a tavern or inn and then you gotta pay.."
He sat down from his hunch, settling beside her with his back somewhat to the fire so he could still watch her. Not that he was worried about her burning the soup or anything, but more because he just liked watching her. He gave a small wistful smile as his eyes lost focus thinking about the past, "I learned t' cook like this when I was 'bout five or so? I remember the first time I let the soup boil over," He chuckled softly, though there was no humor in it, "Bryn cuffed me hard 'nough it made my ear bleed. After that?" Cauwyn shrugged, "Learned t' pay more attention t' what I was supposed to be doin'..." His eyes began to refocus on her as he came out of the memory..
"Was Bryn your mother?" she asked innocently, raising her eyes from the steamy waters as the steam lapped and rolled across her face. "And I bet a man such as yourself must've been such an unruly child." She smiled broadly at the thought. "I feel badly for your mother." And she returned her attentions back to the soup, gently stirring.
OOC: Short post is short XD
"No." He said a bit more curtly than he would have liked. Cauwyn softened his voice as he looked at her, "No, Bryn was not my mother. I, uh, had no mother. Bryn was the man, well half-elf, who saved me after they killed m' real parents. Least, that's what he told me.." Cauwyn shrugged, obviously not to disturbed about his parents death.
He shook his head with a grin at the accusation, "Me? Hardly! I s'pose I got into my fair share of trouble, but where I grew up..." again he shrugged, though his grin faded a bit, "well, I wasn't allowed t' be too unruly. I had responsibilities, chores, an' if they didn't get done well... Gettin' cuffed in the ear was gettin' off easy.."
"Oh!" Katahnia's pupils went small, then grew soft as she frowned. "I'm sorry. I didn't know."
It was then she felt guilty for having grown up in such a perfect life...
a perfect life that had all but been taking away from her. SHe stared over longingly at the bear shaped rock in the distance and sighed.
"I don't think I could ever wrap my head around the idea of being disciplined so. My mother was strict, but I was never physically harmed."S he turned back to Cauwyn, blushing and feeling awful for having brought this all up.
"I hope I haven't upset you."
Her naivety did bring her up as a target for some ridicule and in some lights, ignorant to certain parts of the world. His such story was something only read in books, but here she remained beside him, a real live person, living a real life...
It was harsh and cruel, and part of her wished she could have fixed it for him.
"Life must've been hard."
"Physical harm's the best way to learn," Cauwyn offered with a small, sheepish half grin. It was a little embarrassing to talk about. Especially to a noble woman. She had such a sheltered, good life. Cauwyn wasn't jealous, in fact he was happy for her. But for his own life, Cauwyn had been raised with a certain amount of stoicism toward the whole thing, "an' learn fast. I mean, you can tell a kid fire's hot right? But he won't learn 'til you put his hand it." He gave a nod as if that were the natural way of things.
"Aw, no princess.." His smile softened a bit and he reached out to put a comforting hand on her forearm, "it don't upset me none. I just, I don't know.. Pro'lly just best if'n ya don't here to much, yeah?" It was hard to find the balance. In fact, he wasn't sure why he had said as much as he had. Katahnia was a bit stuck up and certainly naïve and headstrong, but more recently she had been starting open up more with Cauwyn. The idea of him telling her about his humble beginnings, well, it'd probably make him just seem like common trash in her eyes. A far cry from 'Sir Cauwyn'.
"Yes, it was hard," He nodded firmly, still holding that smile, "but it was necessary. If'n I hadn't been raised like that, I woulda died a long time ago.. But here I am," His smile grew a bit more genuine, "an' I think I much rather like sharin' a wayward pine with a pretty girl than bein' dead..." His eyes widened when he realized what he said, "Uh, er, a duchess I mean. A pretty duchess.. Wait, no, just a duchess.. No, shit, I mean, not like your not pretty it's just... Ahh, Ansgars cock! Look, I'm sorry if I offended ya, yeah?" He asked pleadingly. It just seemed better than continuing to stumble over his words like some drunken fool.
Katahnia was listening most sincere, but when he began to tangle up his words, becoming embarrassed when he resorted to natural flattery with her, she couldn't help but laugh.
"I suppose you're right on that account," she told him, almost making her nose more pointed as she afforded him a smug grin, tossing her nose to the air. "It is far better to be alive than dead, so as to share the company beneath the pines with a handsome stranger." she paused, beneath the weight of his gaze, blushing.
"Well, that is to say, a stranger who somehow freed me from my imprisonment." She frowned awkwardly at the thought. "I suppose that would grant you some sort of title, like a knight." she rambled into a muse. "And the compliment towards me is most warranted, good breeding brings about lovely looks."S he tried to jest off the moment with a smile but then...
Turning away, her cheeks gave way to a blush as she diverted her eyes, looking down at the soup, stirring it with renewed interest.
"So how long does this take to cook?" she inquired, staring down at the vegetables as she gave a potato chunk a poke with the spoon.
He grinned when she laughed off his awkward moment, instantly relieved that it hadn't been offensive. Not that he was sure why it would be, but it was always safest to assume the worst he'd found. Especially with girls, you could never tell just what the hell they were thinking. Secretly, Cauwyn didn't think they knew what they were thinking half the time..
"A knight?" He smirked, "Hardly. A'sides, don't ya have t' be noble to be a knight? Or at least rich, 'cause I can tell ya with some certainty that I ain't neither." He frowned a little at that. He liked the idea of being a knight, or more to the point her knight. Cauwyn found he liked a lot of things about Katahnia. "Nah, I don't think I'm knight material. More like one of them guard fellas that just sorta follows the noble folk around helpin' them all the time an' stuff. The fancy dressed ones.." He gave her a toothy grin, "Yeah, that seems more like me. That way I wouldn' have t' wear all that heavy armor an' we could still spend time t'gether."
"Good breedin', is that it?" His lips curled into a rather wolfish grin at the idea. Though, as it played in his mind, he didn't exactly have the same thought on the subject as she did, "I didn't realize there was any kinda bad breedin'. All seems pretty fun t' me." He frowned with thought, trying to think. After a moment he shook his head, "Nope. Can't think of any position of breedin' that I don't like. At least, none that I've tried.."
And then it hit him that she had called him handsome. Again that day Cauwyn felt his cheeks heat up and he turned closer to the fire. That way he would have something to blame it on, even if it was betrayed somewhat by his beaming smile.
"Huh? Oh, the soup?" He blinked, looking at the pot, "Oh, it uh, well, depends on how good ya want it. Longer it cooks the better it tastes usually. Everything gets softer, yeah?" His lips twisted in thought, "Hmm, I'd say at the least ya want to let it cook for a log t' fully burn. Sometimes, if'n ya got the spices an animal bones like I said before? You'll let it cook for two or three logs. Then it gets real good.."
It took Katahnia a while to understand what Cauwyn was talking about in positions and...
then her face flushed.
She had only begun to understand a little of what he said. Being a virgin, she had no real knowledge of the situations he spoke of.
"Yes, perhaps nobles are just picky at who they choose to marry," she added awkwardly, poking at some of the vegetables bobbing about inside the soup, eyes following a few little bubbles that began to form and slowly meander their way towards the surface of the water, where there, they'd gently gather before they'd break.
Then, going back to the knight, beucase it was much more fun and less awkward to talk about, she mused over the idea.
"I believe a knight could be of any stock. And a guards work is idle. A knight is much more honorable, noble- an idea that's easier to gain a lady's heart."
Though she didnt' realize what she was saying until she gave a dreamy sigh, but only laughed at herself for the thought as she went back to stirring the pot, blonde hair falling over her face.
"I suppose my naivety is shining through. But," she shrugged, sighing again. "I was never the traditional lady. The idea of marrying a duke, let alone one possibly from Connlaoth, who despises mages and all of their 'tricks' never seemed to suit me. Perhaps it's why my parents never chose to really escort me across the country." She sighed and lowered her gaze, staring through the pot, the flames..t he earth...
"They were always trying to protect me. To inform me how their ideals would take years, even centuries for people to realize. They just wanted equality, it's funny, to think... that we're all made up the same. We all bleed, we all breathe, but we don't all have magic." She pressed her lips together, tears stinging a bit inside her eyes. SHe tried to blink them away, keeping her gaze averted from his.
"Some just like to call us magic wielders monsters." she forced a smile, but it was obviously fake, and looked horrendous on her pretty face. She lowered her gaze, laughed again and went about stirring.
"I suppose we must be really scary." she said, giving a cocky grin towards Cauwyn. "Were you shaking in your boots the moment you realized I could wield magic?" she asked, resting an elbow to her leg, then that hand,- the palm to her cheek as she looked at him, still stirring at the pot with her other free hand.
"Are you afraid of mages?" she added, more seriously.
It took Cauwyn a moment to realize just how inappropriate what he said might have been. He scratched at the back of his in awkward silence for moment, idly agreeing with a nod at what she said. When she switched to the topic of knighthood he was pleased that she had changed the subject.
"Well," Cauwyn said with a grin and a small shrug, "I guess if bein' a knight is the way to gain a noble ladies favor, I wouldn't be too upset at the idea." He watched her for a small moment as his mind played through a series of possibilities. It made his grin grow, but also his cheeks blush. It was a foolish thought, he told himself forcing the idea from his mind. But even still... "Sir Cauwyn," He chuckled slightly at the idea, however impossible it might be, "guess that does have a good ring to it, yeah?"
"It must be lonely.." Cauwyn said without thinking, his tone somber as he watched her. Despite her life of privilege, Cauwyn imagined it must have been pretty bleak, "I mean, bein' a mage and a noble. 'specially around these parts. I mean, nobles marry other nobles right? That must have made it pretty hard for you.."
When she mentioned her magic, he shifted a little in his seat. He grinned though as she gave him that cocky smirk and he replied with one of his own, "Nah, princess, I wasn't scared. Not as much as I was of you slappin' me again, at least.." But when she compared herself to a monster, or at least that's how he took it, Cauwyn frowned and immediately reached out to put a gentle hand, calloused and bruised as it was, on her arm, "Hey. I don't think you're a monster, Katahnia. An' anyone who does can go fuck themselves, yeah?"
He leaned away slightly, his hand dropping from her arm though he was sorry to break the physical contact. He frowned for a moment as he considered her question, though he already knew the answer. It was just hard to explain, "Do I fear magic? Nah, I don't fear magic. At least, not like most people." He shrugged, "It don't really affect me, but that don't mean it can't be scary. I have fought an' killed more than a few mages in my time. To see fire rain from the skies on everyone 'round you, or watch men get cleaved in two with lightning?" He nodded, the earlier grin replaced with a thoughtful frown, "Yeah, it's scary. Even if'n ya know it won't happen to you.. But I don't think it's magic that's evil, princess. Just the people who use it.."
He shrugged again, trying to think about his earlier analogy, "Like with the sword, yeah? Not everyone who carries a sword is evil, but a lot of people do bad things with them. I think magics like that, but unlike a sword a lot less people got it. An' that means if'n ya do have it, well, it's like bein' in a village without weapons an' you being the only guy with a sword. Maybe one in ten men would use it t' defend that village... but most people would just as soon use it t' rule.." He sighed heavily, still thinking, "I'd say that's why most people are 'fraid of magic.. I guess, hells, thinkin' like that then yeah, maybe kinda, I am too.."
Katahnia listened to him in silence, slowly digesting his words as she slowly stirred the pot of soup.
"Yes.."s he said after a time, her words soft and seeming without life. "Most may use it for bad, but to suppress an entire people for it?" she shook her head, sighing as she did as she moved to sit on her rear, rather than her knees, and drew her knees close to her as she watched the pot with interest, keeping the wooden spoon in hand. She had no idea what more to say, simply stared at the pot of soup, tears beginning to threaten in her eyes, which were easily given away by the orange, sparkling glow of the fire.
Something about the tone of her words and the fire lit sparkle of tears in her eyes sent off a pang of guilt through him. It felt like he'd just been punched in the gut. His knee jerk reaction was to get angry, but even that was swallowed up at the sight of her sadness and the guilt he felt.
Cauwyn twisted around on his rear to face the same direction as her and then scooted closer. He put a gentle arm around her shoulders, giving the arm his hand rested upon a soft squeeze. Cauwyn forced a small grin, leaning his head somewhat closer to hers, "Maybe not a whole people, yeah? You can count on this, princess. As long as I'm around, ain't no one gonna be layin' a hand on you, yeah? Not unless they wanna be losin' it.."
Kathania turned towards Cauwyn with a start, surprised at his reaction and gentle approach as a single tear rolled down her cheek. It was then she blushed, turned away as she smiled and worked at wiping the other tears away that began to fall.
"Thank you,"s he said softly, smiling as she lowered her head. "It... well, I shouldn't complain about how things turned out."s he drew in a breath, tried to control herself from shaking and sobbing and returned her eyes to his, but couldn't look at him squarely in his face, soon averting them as her cheeks heated.
"I"m sorry, you don't need to be comforting me like this,"S he shook her head. "You've probably lived a lot more complicated and difficult life than I." She sighed, looking away, staring at the soup again, but the sting of tears was still within her eyes.
"It's just the world we live in." she added softly, more carefully, then smiled as she recalled his claims and closed her eyes, her smile broadening.
"Thank you for offering to be my knight," she said softly, delicately before turning her green eyes finally to meet with his.
He smiled as she looked at him, though it faded slightly when she looked away. Had he done something wrong again? Cauwyn suppressed a frustrated grunt. Understanding what women were thinking was far too complicated to get worked up over, he reminded himself. So he took pleasure in the simple enjoyment of being next to her.
"Maybe," Cauwyn gave a small half shrug and a lopsided grin, "but I think it depends on how ya look at it. As hard as it was, it was all I knew an' so it's pretty natural t' me. An' I chose to leave it behind, t' try and start a newer, better one.. You? You didn't get that choice, princess. Your life was taken from ya, an' now your havin' to deal with everything being new an' hard without ever havin' to expect that." Cauwyns voice was growing more heated as he spoke. How could someone do that to her? How could they chose to force this upon such a sweet, innocent girl? It made him angry and when he looked at her and her sadness, it only made it worse, "An' that's fucked up! It's fucked that someone would do this too ya, an' put you in this situation!"
When their eyes finally met her gaze took all the anger out of him. He was happy and content and, with some guilt glad that he was sitting here with her, but it didn't take the fire out of them. He would make this right. Cauwyn had done a lot of bad things in his life with his sword, and now it was time to do something right!
"Katahnia," His words were somber and hard, but not in the least bit angry. They were a solemn oath, "I might not be much of a knight, but I'll tell ya this. I won't just protect ya, I wanna make this right. What was done t' you an' your family was wrong, an' someone has t' pay." He moved his arm from around her shoulders and took up her hands in his, even though she was still holding the spoon, "I swear to ya, you tell me how I can help an' I'll do it. I am your man, Katahnia."
When Cauwyn moved nearer to her, expressing his wishes towards her with such passion, she felt stunned and could only stare at him with her mouth gaping open. Then a flush heated her face and she found the need to tear her eyes away from him- if only briefly, so as not to be rude.
"Cauwyn.."s he began, carefully, delicately with a sigh, needing to compose herself. His words made her dizzy with emotions. Then she met her eyes back to his.
"You needn't burden yourself over me. We have only but met. You have no chains to my fate. What the world has done to me is no fault of your own."s he slowly shook her head, eyes trying to implore his. "I'm not saying it's not... nice of you to offer but I.."s he smiled embrassedly, looking away as it was hard to look at him as she stumbled over the next phrasing.
"I jest that you'd make a good knight, but it's true. You've shown such courage and dedication towards me in such a short time that I-" her voice broke off when her eyes met to his, forgetting, momentarily what she wanted to say.
"I suppose all I can say is thank you."s he finally muttered, face still hot, eyes still warm and aglow. "And stop all of this rambling and nonsense." she lowered her gaze again, still smiling inspite of her self and her insecurities.
After all, there were many ways to interpret him professing he was hers...
"I might not 'ave been the one to put this fate on ya," He started, his voice still steady with sincerity and dedication, "but that don't mean I haven't before. I don't know how many people who're like ya whose lives I mighta ruined. Taken from them like you was taken from.." His words grew heavier with his heart as his emotions began to run out. He didn't want to tell her, didn't want to admit to any of this, but for some reason he couldn't stop himself, "An' there ain't no way for me to help them. But I know it was wrong, I knew then an' it bothered me enough t' leave that life behind. Just as I know now.."
He swallowed past the lump in his throat. He was a cad, a monster. More of a monster than the mage whose hands he held in his own, "But if I can make things right by you, help you out? Then maybe not everything I've done'll have been so bad, yeah?"
Cauwyn paused a moment to regain himself, wondering if he had said too much. If he had colored too dark a picture of himself for her, but he wouldn't lie to her he decided then. No, she would know the truth, or at least when she asked he would give it. Holding back some information seemed to be a pretty reasonable exception, just to keep from turning her completely against him.
"An you ain't gotta thank me yet," Cauwyn said before he leaned in close. Only inches from such a beautiful face. His lips split into a grin and his tone became much more lighthearted, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief, "not 'til we get yer life back. The one ya deserve. Then ya can thank me, for everythin'." He gave her a knowing wink, though it was more in jest. Prodding her a bit, at her prudishness, if only to break the tension of the seriousness of what he had sworn.
Katahnia listened deeply to his words, felt deeply by them with her heart, and found her eyes now unable to look away.
Though when he winked, the tension was broken as she laughed through a gentle breath and looked away.
"So I've become the lucky girl who gets the benefit of your change?" She smiled at the thought, then shook her head and turned back to him, unable to keep herself from smiling as she admired him. "And I don't think there is a way to really fix what has happened to me. I will never be a duchess, my kingdom is in ruins, but I do thank you for at least offering."s he reached forward, gently squeezing his hand before turning away, placing the spoon back into the pot.
"So do you think the soups done yet?"s he inquired, staring at the bubbling brew.
It was best to change the subject anyways-
They.. had grown rather close together in their short time, and she.. well...
for a moment their earlier, she thought, sheepishly, he would have just given her a kiss!
Yes.. soup indeed!
"Oh there is a way, princess." Cauwyn said still smiling he leaned back and didn't resist as her hands slipped out from his, but oh did he want to! "Someone wronged you an' yours. So, we find out who and we kill 'em." He spoke rather matter of factly. It was simple to him and where he came from. There were politics of course, as there are in any group, but at the end of the day there weren't to many arguments that couldn't be settled with a sword.
Ah yes, the soup! That was a good distraction, because Cauwyn didn't know how much longer he could have controlled himself. He had been so close he could almost taste her lips. He wondered idly how they tasted, they looked beautiful. But then, everything about her was beautiful. Whatever position the nobles used when they bred, Cauwyn wished he knew!
And then Cauwyn realized he was just staring at her. He blinked a few times with the realization and then, rather embarrassed, looked quickly to the soup. "Huh? Oh, yeah," He cleared his throat a little, "yeah, it might be."
His eyes lit up again and he offered her a smirk, "But I suppose you should tell me, princess. You're the one cookin' it." Cauwyn gestured with his hand to the spoon in hers, "Why not give it a taste, yeah?"
Katahnia shook her head lightly at his commented, then blinked as he looked down at the soup.
"So... " she stared down at it, then lifted her green eyes to his. "You just... try it?" She seemed a bit uncertain of this as she blinked again, staring over at him.
"What would I know to taste for?" she asked with a laugh, feeling slightly embarrassed for it as she poked at some of the floating vegetables.
It certainly smelled good- was it really simple enough of a thing to just taste it?
"Well, ya taste for flavor.." He said with a somewhat bewildered smirk at first, though then it did start to sink in. The girl had been used to living the good life. Professional cooks making delicious meals at her beck and call. Soup watery camp soup probably wasn't going to be the best tasting thing in the world, no matter how well it was cooked..
"Heh," He gave a small half smile, "well, I mean.. It should taste good. Good enough t' eat anyways. I know your probably gonna be used t' eating a lot better, but.." His smile grew more confident and he perked up some, "but just remember, you made this! So while it might not be as good as what the cooks in your castle used to make, this is all you an' ain't no one can take that from ya.."
Katahnia couldn't help herself but wrinkle her nose at him as she smiled.
"Well, if you insist, I suppose I could give it a try.."s he said, bending over, holding the spoon to her lips as she gently blew on the brother. Eventually, when the steam seemed to settle, she slipped it into her mouth and felt the carrot and potato melt against her tongue, the broth, not being too strong, had a weak but pleasant flavor, and her stomach- growing ever hungry, began to growl loudly with delight.
Chewing on her food, she swallowed and giggled some, pressing a hand daintily to her lips.
"Well, I would have to agree with my stomach that this soup is the best I've had since I encased myself in crystal," she jested, wrinkling her nose again in glee as she laughed. She put the spoon into the soup again, drew more to her lips and blew on it before offering it to Cauwyn.
"Here, perhaps I should get a second opinion?"
He sat quietly watching her as she brought the spoon up to her lips, blissfully unaware of the consequences. Of where his mind would take things when she pursed her lips together and began blowing on the spoon. Cauwyn was instantly mesmerized. It was like she had used her magic to weave some dark spell over him, he thought, were that even possible and were he able to think. He wasn't though, all he could watch with his mouth hung slightly open wishing very much he were a spoon.
He had just started coming out of his stupor when she repeated the process. It wasn't for a moment or two before he realized she was offering the spoon to him. Her words started to unscramble themselves in his brain and he felt his cheeks grow warm with embarrassment at what had transpired. He hid this rather well by completely engulfing the spoonful of soup.
It was still somewhat hot and all together probably not the best choice. Cauwyn played it off.
Choking on the large mouthful while simultaneously trying to move the chunks of potato and vegetables around with his tongue and inhaling sharply made for quite the cover to having to say anything. Point, Cauwyn he thought as instinctively his eyes watered slightly. For her part however, the potatoes melted in his mouth and the vegetables were quite savory. Even the little chunk of treated meat he had gotten tasted tender. The broth its self wasn't the best, but it damn sure wasn't the worst he had ever had.
A broad smile grew on his face before he hid his mouth politely with his hand, covering as he chewed before swallowing it down with satisfaction. He coughed a little, his mouth still kind of burned, but he was genuinely pleased.
"By the hells, princess!" Cauwyn exclaimed, his hand falling away to show his proud smile, "For your first time cookin' ya did one hell of a job!"
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh as she shook her head.
"You are a flatterer," the woman said, still shaking her head. "The soup seems a bit bland, but my stomach won't protest in the slightest." She drew back some, tilting her head to him curiously. "So I suppose it's about time to eat then?"
And by the looks of things, it appeared as if they would hardly eat this 'scrumptious' soup on a silver plate... so the two might have to share the spoon and pot.
Bending over, she blew onto another heaping spoonful and tested it with her tongue, it was still hot, so she blew on it again then smiled as she lifted hte much more 'cooler' soup spoon towards him.
"Here, bon appetite!"
He took the offered spoonful with much more grace this time. He made little groans of pleasure around the food in his mouth before swallowing it down. Remembering then that they had soldiers bread, hard biscuts, he reached down and plucked two of the hard rolls up. Cauwyn was kind enough to brush some of the pine needles off of one before handing it over to Katahnia.
"Ah, here. Take this an' dunk it into the soup. It'll soften up the bread an' it makes the meal a bit more fillin'. " Cauwyn offered in advice before dunking a small bit his own in the pot, bringing it back out and taking a bite. It was the first thing he had eaten all day and that made it the best thing he had eaten all day. "Best part is t' save it until the end though, then ya can use it t' scrape the left over bits out the bottom of the pot an' such.."
Katahnia took the offered roll with a smile.
"It sounds delicious. So it can just soak up the soup." And with that, she dropped it into the pot, turning her face away as the thing splashed as bit of soup towards her.
"Well, I suppose I can fish that out later," she said with a gentle laugh and took the spoon, stirring things up a bit before helping herself to another spoonful.
"Ah, even though it's so simple, I can't help but want to guzzle it all down," she said, tucking back some of her hair before helping herself to another spoonful, then handing the shared wooden spoon back to him as she tucked back some of her hair away from her face and licked her lips.
"Here, get some for yourself before I eat it all."s he said, wiping at her lips iwth the back of her hand.
"I never thought water, potato and carrots could taste so good!"s he admitted, laughing again then peering down to see where her hard bread had gone off to at the bottom of the pot.
A snort escaped him along with a chuckle when she dropped her roll into the pot. His shoulders shook from the laugh as he took the offered spoon. The soup was thin and not much to look at, but it was warm and had a fairly decent taste. Along with the potatoes it would make for a pretty decent meal all things considering. He took in a few more spoonfuls before handing it back over to Katahnia.
"Mm, well, if ya like thish.." He spoke around a piece of potato briefly before swallowing it down, "ahh, I can't wait t' catch us some game to cook up. Most places they don't much care for ya poaching their land," He shrugged, "but they can go fuck themselves. If'n I'm hungry, I'm gonna eat.."
He frowned with curiosity then, remembering something she had said earlier, "You said your pa taught ya a bit about the sword, yeah? Did he ever teach ya how t' hunt?"
Katahnia nursed at the spoon, gently blowing on it before taking another bite to eat.
"A little,"s he confirmed, shrugging her shoulders. "I liked shooting arrows, but was never the best. It was a fun past time, however." She smiled at the memory. "My father never had a son to carry on those responsibilities, so when I wanted to learn, he was more than elated to share."
She sighed, then drew her brows together to look towards Cauwyn.
"You aren't suggesting I try to hunt?" she had to ask.
OOC: Ugh, short D: sorry ;_;
"Well, I don't have a bow.." He admitted and then a bit sheepishly, "I've never been any good with 'em. In fact, I'd pro'lly be more likely t' shoot myself in the foot than anything else.."
He grinned at the duchess who continued to surprise him. A woman, and noble at that, who had been taught the sword and how to hunt? Wonders of wonders it seemed, who knew such a noble woman existed. As far as Cauwyn had always been concerned, noble women sat about doing....well, what did they do? He considered it a moment, his mind going to thoughts of sewing and singing and fancy dancing, maybe playing an instrument or something? He wasn't really sure what he thought they did. Certainly though, he never thought it involved swordplay and hunting.
"But what I do have is a spear. Not so good for rabbits and the like, but it adds a challenge hunting stags and is the only way to hunt a boar.." His grin continued, "An' I don't know princess, ya did so well with the cookin'... Why not try your hand at huntin'? I mean, it's the first part afterall, ain't it? The travel between towns of worth can be pretty long.. Hells, even between villages ya might be out anywhere from a day t' a week!"
He planted both hands behind him and leaned back, his gaze turning to the fire, "So, lets see? We'll practice fightin'. Real fightin' mind ya," He gave her a pointed look, "not just with swords. There's a lot more to it than just knowin' some fancy moves, yeah?" He looked back to the fire as he formed a list in his mind, "Then there's huntin', cookin', figurin' out places t' stay in the wild.. Oh! Trackin', that's important, and learnin' t' tell what plants can help ya an' which ones are bad for ya..." He frowned as he tried to think of what else she might need to know..
Katahnia couldn't help it.
As the man went on and on with his methods on teaching her survival, she nearly choked on her soup as she began to laugh and laugh, and then laugh some more, the noise like gentle music in the sweet air of the pine.
"Oh, I'm terribly sorry I can't stop myself from laughing!" she breathed, a hand gently to her stomach as she wiped at some of the tears from her eyes. SHe shook her head.
"Boy, you've got quite a lot planned for me, don't you Cauwyn?"s he said with a grin, her cheeks flushed and ripe with a smile.
"But I never thought about it before, but there must be much to know in surviving outside the walls of refinement."s he sighed a little, but the flush of her laugh was still there, even still evident on her lips as she looked away, staring thoughtfully at the fire.
"Perhaps we should just simply take things one step at a time?" she said, finally allowing her eyes to return to his, as they remained sparkling with mirth.
He stopped his list when he noticed her laughing. He frowned slightly at first, confused, though the sound of her laughter made it all but impossible to keep from smiling. His brow was still furrowed with confusion, which contrasted somewhat with the smile on his face.
"Well, I ain't never helped no one before.." He said with a slight shrug, "Figure if'n I'm gonna do it, then I might as well do it right, yeah?"
He considered her sage advise on the subject, nodding with agreement. He flashed her a somewhat sheepish and very boyish grin as he realized just how overzealous he must have sounded. "I suppose your right 'bout that, princess. Guess maybe we should just focus on th' more important stuff, yeah? "
For a moment Cauwyn frowned, lost in thought, but it broke into a smile and he gave a single nod with conviction, "Alright, I guess we'll stick with th' most important thing there is t' know on the road. Tomorrow mornin' we'll start learnin' how to fight proper. If'n ya learn that, most other things ya can get without too much trouble.."
"Fight proper?" her eyes glittered with mirth. "And how do you expect to teach a lady to fight proper?" she slid a bit more closely to him, spoon in hand as she licked off the remains of some soup.
"You're saying a sword is not enough?" she questioned, pointing the spoon now towards his chest as though it were a weapon itself and smirked.
"Fightin' proper is for anyone who wants t' survive. Man or woman.." He smirked at her, "Believe me when I say I have met a few women in my time who could put a man t' shame.."
He chuckled at the sword spoon and sat forward taking his weight of his hands so he could hold them up in surrender. Even then though, with a grin, he gave her a pointed look, "A swords just a tool, it's mans willin'ness to win a fight that's the weapon. I've seen it too often, proud nobles an' their knights all honor gentleman-ness on the field. Hells, made m' job easy.." Cauwyn shook his head, "No, it ain't about all that. It's about survivin'. An about doin' whatever it takes t' do it.." His grin grew and though there was a sparkle of mirth in his eyes, there was also the hardness of his true belief, "Like I said princess, as long as your with me I'm gonna make sure ya survive.."
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh again.
"So much trouble to protect a lady you've only just met," she teased, still holding the soup spoon dangerously at his chest. "But I appreciate the offer."she drew the spoon away and tried to tuck back her smile, for all the good it did her as the smile remained, blossomed across her cheeks.
"So what about now then?"s he said, looking away after realizing she was.. becoming a bit too forward and flirtatious with her actions as she moved to rise, though had to keep her shoulders hunched so her head did not scrape against the low limbs of the branches.
"You could show me a thing or two before bed," she offered, smiling at him as one hand rested against a pine branch over head, the other at her side, and her eyes dancing playfully as she looked at him, smile ever present across her lips.
"Oh I'd certainly love that.." Cauwyn said a bit wistfully as he craned his neck back looking up at her. He blinked, realizing how that might have sounded...because of how he meant it...and quickly added, "To show ya some stuff, uhh, fightin' stuff, before bed!"
What was wrong with him? Cauwyn chastised himself internally as he rolled over and pushed himself to his feet. His body ached and moaned in protest, but eventually he got his knees under him and then up to his feet. He was hunched over too, the side of his head nearly pressed against hers, "If'n ya want, I'll grab m' sword real quick an' show ya some stuff outside, yeah?"
Katahnia couldn't help but smile, her eyes narrowing and her nose wrinkling with play.
"Shall I grab the spoon then?" she said, trying to suppress a chuckle. "It seems it might work some day as a mighty fine weapon. It's calling being resourceful, is it not?" though her lips smiled broadly across her face, no longer able to contain her mirth as her eyes danced.
"Or I suppose I could try a sword, but you would be at an unfair advantage against my skills,"s he teased.
"I don't know, ya didn't seem all too dangerous with that spoon.." Cauwyn said with a grin as he grabbed the leather wrapped handle of his bastard sword and pulled it from its scabbard. He held it in one hand, resting the blade on his shoulder, as he crawled out of the tree behind her. Which, of course, was the best position in the house. It appeared there was something to this whole chivalry, women go first, bit. "I mean, I didn't choke t' death on your soup.. Hells, I used t' know a couple slaves that'd been cookin' for years that couldn't make a soup half as good!"
Once outside in the misting rain Cauwyn stood and stretched. Joints popped and muscles ached, but in the end it still felt pretty damn good. He looked up at the rain with a small wry grin and then down at his linens. Were they not so old and stained they may have become indecent. Not that he would have had a problem with that. It seemed though that neither of them were really set to be dry for a while.
"So, princess," He started with that same wry grin leveled on her as he began a slow side step away from their little tree-hut, keeping his focus solely on her, "what exactly did your pa teach about swords?"
Katahnia only smiled and slipped the spoon back into the now empty pot.
"Perhaps I have a future in cooking?" she jested at his remark, then followed him out, taking the sword she had procured, but kept it in it's scabbard.
She went out first, followed by him and it felt rather good to have the gentle, misting rains against her skin. She breathed a sigh of serenity before watching him removing his sword.
"Well," she began, grabbing the scabbard and slipping out her own blade out.
"My father taught me quick techniques, not ones meant for war, but ones that might save your life." She moved the blade slowly through the air, cutting it in a gentle, flowing X shape before her.
"But my mother also taught me dancing," she added, moving lightly on the balls of her feet, blade ready in the air beside her. "So I was also taught to have grace and power in my steps, ways to move, to deflect, to carrying out a strike.."s he said, showing him in a much slower motion, how her body could twirl and turn, and then slowly, ever so slowly, she dragged the metal of her blade from the tip of his and up, then grazed it across the steel before rising it in the air and pointing the end playfully at his chest.
"And so what do you wish to teach me?" she asked, a playful smirk upon her lips.
"Bein' a cook wouldn't be so bad.." Cauwyn offered with a gentle shrug, "Ya can make yourself good food, ya can make people happy an' hells, if ya do it right, no one dies.." He grinned at that last part, though there was a moment in his eyes where something haunted flashed through them.
Cauwyn watched her dance with a more critical eye than would be expected of him. Oh it was beautiful and part of him realized it, but more so he watched the way she moved the sword. This was important to him though, maybe more than she realized. Though they both had joked about him being her 'knight', Cauwyn knew the truth was that he wasn't a knight. He wasn't even close, and he also knew the one unshakeable truth of life.
Everyone you cared about, friend, family, or otherwise, would die.
It's just how life was. He used the gods names in vain, but Cauwyn didn't believe in them. Or, if he did, he felt they only had once purpose. To fuck with people. So as she danced and moved with tender grace and form Cauwyn studied it closely with an appraising eye. Or at least, he tried to.
There was something about the way she rubbed her sword against his that seemed to snap his attention from the serious and somber mood he was in. He could feel his cheeks heat, among other places, and couldn't stop a small smile that crept onto his lips.
"Heh," Cauwyn cleared his throat with a small chuckle, "that's pretty good. Ya got good balance an' a solid knowledge of what your doin'.." He admitted with a nod, "but it can be a lot different when someone's tryin' to gut ya.. An' killin', well, it ain't always easy.." The smile faded away briefly to make way once more for that haunted look. After it passed however his grin returned and there was a twinkle of mirth in his eyes. So she wanted a challenge? He could give her a challenge.
"I don't know," He said cryptically as he gave his larger sword a few quick spins before stabbing it down into the ground, "guess that depends on what you're willin' to learn.."
Cauwyn stepped away from his sword, fingers trailing off the handle, until he stood with his hands hanging loose at his side and a very confident smirk on his lips, "How 'bout you try an' tag me with that sword of yours?"
Katahnia raised her brows questionably at him.
"Tag you with my sword?"s he asked, face twisting in confusion. "How do you mean? Is this some sort of game?"s he asked, keeping her sword arm steady, still pointing at him as she smirked.
"What if I cut you by mistake?" she looked down his weapon, then closed her eyes and looked up at him. "Won't you be needing that?"
"Oh, it's sorta a game.." Cauwyn said with a small shrug, still smirking, "but at the same time it ain't. All ya gotta do is touch me with it, yeah?" He reached out with one hand, tapping his finger against the flat of her blade, "Preferably with this part, yeah? I already got a few scars.. Though, I always hear women like scars so.." He shrugged with a wicked grin, "maybe I'll be ok with a little cut.."
He began to bounce lightly back and forth on the balls of his feet. It hurt, in more areas than one, but it also felt sort of good as blood flowed into bruised muscle. His grin stayed firm and strong as he watched her with eyes twinkling of mirth, "I don't know, am I gonna need it? Ain't needed it yet, have I?"
Kathania's face grew wider with a smile.
"You expect me to just touch you with my sword?" she gave a gentle laugh, watching him dance about upon his feet. She studied him, carefully, cautiously as she walked around, studying his body and wondering..
"So just how many scars do you have?" she inquired, before thrusting her sword forward, aiming to tap his flesh with the blunt side of the blade, though the attempt was at half, she was still laughing at the very idea of this game!
"Yep!" He said with a bit of childlike exuberance as he bounced around. He turned with her as she circled him, but made no move for his own sword still stuck in the mud. He just grinned at her somewhere between cocky and playful, "Just gotta touch me.."
When the sword moved forward it was too easy for him to dodge it. His body twisted at the waist letting it slide past him. He even shrugged as he was righting himself, his twinkling eyes never leaving hers, "I don't know, quite a few. Even growin' up around a buncha fighters, it's a heck of a learnin' curve when ya just get thrown into it as a kid.."
He knew she hadn't put everything into it, but that didn't stop him settling her with a mocking smirk, "That's what your bringin' t' this princess?" He clucked his tongue against his teeth making a tsk-ing sound, "An' here I thought you would be better than that.. Probably all that soft livin', best ya go back t' sewing and milkin' shit, ya know, womans work.."
Katahnia couldn't help but smile, eyes sparkling with mirth as she tried another pathetic attempt to touch him with her sword. Again, she laughed, but seemed a bit appalled at his choice of words.
"But you are unarmed! A lady could never harm a man so defenseless,"s he chided, dancing around with him in a circle, green eyes brewing as she eyed him up.
"Are you aiming for me to make a mark on you?" she asked, finally slipping her sword out in a quick jut, nearly hitting him, it could have cut, but still, she was too slow for it to make connection as she drew her arm back, only to twirl about and drew again, this time aiming to connect the back of the sword toward his feet.
Cauwyn continued with his smug Cheshire grin. He watched her closely with his eyes locked to hers, though his attention was elsewhere. He used his periphery to watch the set of her shoulders and the spacing of her feet. Both the best indication of what she planned to do next. Her words were distractions, listened to but not focused on.
When she asked about leaving her mark, his grin only grew wider as he gave her a small shrug of his shoulders. And then he jumped, just as she started her swing on his legs. He didn't jump high, Cauwyn didn't have to, just high enough to clear the blade. He twisted his hips in the air and as soon as his feet touched the ground he lunged forward, closing the distance between them while she was still finishing her swing.
If it was even possible his grin seemed to grow even more smug a few inches from her face and he gave the duchess a wink. No words were said, he didn't need to say anything. It would probably have just ruined it if he opened his mouth, so he didn't. Instead he just dance back away before she could catch him on the backswing..
Safely away (relatively), Cauwyn final spoke up. He leaned slightly forward, turning his head to the side to present her his ear, though he kept his eyes on her still. Cauwyn asked innocently, "What was that, princess? Didn't hear ya there.."
Katahnia gasped, blushed even at their close proximity; forgetting momentarily when he winked they were in a fight. She couldn't help but smile, shaking her head as she moved back as she readied the clunky sword, giving another feeble swing. But she found herself laughing, and laughing again as hse tried to swing, only to pause, placing the blade into the mud by her boots as she panted, lowered her head and shook it.
"I can't, Cauwyn,"s he said, trying to hide back her mirth, but the laughter rang out clear. "You're making this serious sparring game a bit too fun. It's making my arms weak." she admitted, then looked down at the blade. "And I'm hardly used to such a wide and heavy blade."
Not that it mattered, she picked it back up, smoothed back her hair and kept her chin up high.
"But a lady does not give up so easily,"s he said, the playful fight in her eyes returning, before she tried again, then again, and her poise, her precision tightening up as she danced lightly on her feet, and this time, with a sudden swing, she took a slice across the shoulder of his clothes and gave a cry, almost stumbling forward in triumphant.
"There! I cut your clothes!"s he said, smiling broadly as she pointed her blade back at him.
"Or do I need to hit you completely with the flat end of this blade?" she asked, one hand forward with blade, the other pointed back with grace and tension.
"Getting tired?" Cauwyn mocked, though his grin stayed ever present as he watched her place the sword in the ground, "Maybe you should take a break? Under one of them fancy shade things that keep the rain and sun off ya!" He chuckled at his own joke, starting to slow down his bounce until once again she took up the sword.
When she refused to give up he gave her an approving nod. They danced and he ducked and weaved, sometimes dodging and others easily slapping the blade away with the palm of his hand. Unfortunately though, she was growing more comfortable with the heavier blade while he was simply growing more complacent. When the blade finally cut him, or his clothes at least, he gave her a wide eyed look mixed of surprise and excitement.
"Ya sure did get me!" He chuckled sticking his finger in the hole and working it about. He returned his attention to her as he danced up somewhat closer before settling down onto his feet. He had to admit he was actually a little winded, some sweat forming on his brow, though he blamed it all on his injures.
Cauwyn made another tsk sound, slapping the sword on the flat of the blade as she held it out, "That's not a rapier or a epee! Ya hold it like that, yer gonna tire out.." He put both of his hands behind his back, leaning forward, "Ya gotta know your sword an' it's strength just as much as ya gotta know your own.."
He pointed an accusing finger at her, "And if I didn't know better, I'd say ya were playin' me for a ringer out there. Tryin' t' lure me in.. Your much better at this than I though ya would be princess, no offense.."
Katahnia smiled proudly, that feeling swelling within her chest as she kept her chin up high.
"So you're impressed?" she mused, green eyes dancing. "And I will admit, it is rather difficult to move this heavy of a blade by just one wrist."s he felt it tiring already, staring there and working it's way to a trying feeling at her shoulder. She instinctively placed a hand hand on the hilt, not realizing it was what she was supposed to do.
"So are we done with this game, or do I need to slash up your clothes?" she asked, her eyes giving way to a playful dance of mischief. She moved back into position, hands held out in grace, the sword back into one hand.
"We could go at this all night."s he mused, eyes hooking dangerously onto his.
"You think you could go all night?" Cauwyn asked with mirth in his eyes and a grin on his lips. He was starting to realize maybe just how sheltered Katahnia was, "I mean, your already gettin' tired and I have even brought m' sword out.." It took a lot for Cauwyn to keep his need to giggle like a schoolboy under control. And to also think of how to keep up the innuendo without being too obvious.
"I tell ya what, let me take hold of my sword an' will go another round.." A snicker almost made it out, but he stopped himself, "and then, if'n aren't just too worn out from it, maybe I'll even let ya hold m' sword. Ya know, try it out. Feel the weight, the heft in your hands. It'll be a, uh, real eye openin' experience I'm sure.."
A small snicker escaped as he turned for his sword, but he schooled his face quickly. Inside however his lungs burned with the forced restraint of his laughter.
"Why would I want to hold onto your sword?" Katahnia questioned, quirking a brow and smirking back at him. She had no idea why he was laughing.
"Just draw your blade and we can dance." And that, was something she could very well get excited about! "I challenge you then, sword to sword! Come on, let's try it."s he gestured to his sheath.
"It would be better than me cutting more gashes in your shirt." She gently moved the blade before her in slow, steady motions a she waited for him with a hand poised out before her, palm flattened as if a shield. "Show me what you've got."
OOC: Ugh, Is hould NOT be posting right now XD hopefully ther'es not a lot of typos and the likes!
Cauwyn reached over and pulled his blade from the ground, smacking it against the bottom of his boot. He was laughing openly now, if only because of her questions. But also it was her excitement, her thrill to fight that had his chuckling turn into a true laugh.
He spun his blade a few times in his hand, forward and then backward to loosen up his muscles, and then once satisfied he took up a single handed position on the hand and a half blade. The hilt was kept waist level with the blade canted slightly forward toward his opponent. He smiled at her and held up his other hand, usually used for holding a shield or his ax. This time he simply curled his fingers to his palm repeatedly in challenge.
"Alright princess, come on. We'll see how well ya can last wieldin' that thing.." He had no intention of hurting her, obviously, and was grinning now with his new evil plan. All he would have to do was bat away the blade a few times, smack it hard and let her feel the weight of it and the reverberations, and he was sure he could take the fire out of her.
OOC: I should say not! It's probably late a fuck there, or early I suppose... depending on how you look at it..
OOC: It is late! it's like almost 7 in the morning~ but I was silly and figured I might as well stay up... so here I am! XP
IC:
Katahnia only grinned when he approached her, and before he got the chance to start anything, she lunged forward, her steel scraping against his as she danced lightly, about, then back, trying to compensate for the heavier weapon with a heavier swing.
"I'll show you how a real princess fights!" she said through a laugh, dancing again and striking towards his sword.
OOC: Oh yeah, that's much too late! I do admire the dedication though!
IC:
He laughed with her, easily knocking aside her strikes as she danced around. Cauwyn's movements, while not exactly dancing, had their own form of lethal grace. He was fluid, like the rushing water of a stream. Moving ever forward gliding around obstacles like strikes or blocks. When he did attack, he did so like she did, swinging for her blade. Quick, hard strikes. He flashed her a quick grin when she hit his sword away, giving his head a little shake.
"When ya strike, don't just hack," He swung his blade against hers and then pulled back again, "but slice too!" Again he struck the blade, but this time instead of bouncing it strait back he pulled it along the sword and away.
"Hackin' breaks bones, slicin' cuts meat.." He said as he slipped away from a strike before moving back in, "Ya gotta know both, an' when t' do which. Break a mans arm, slice a mans thigh... that sorta thing.." He grinned, laughing loudly as he barely danced out of the way of one of her strikes. Another strip of his shit catching and tearing on the tip of her blade.
She watched as his sword slipped across her's, grazing down the surface of the blade with a lengthy, steel-hissing kiss. She drew back and away, light on her feet and digested his words carefully, eyes still glittering.
"So, slice like I did to your sleeve?" she teased, making a slice here, then a slice there, before dancing back and around with him in a circle, eyeing him up for a good moment to strike.
SO she'd bite her sword to goad out his, snipping forward, snapping, curling at the wrist, but then she felt her own sword get caught upon his, and grazed the steel across it as she moved off and away.
"It seems you guard your clothes well," she added iwth a smirk, raising one brow at her. "But I will find a way to make a slice to your other sleeve."Katahnia teased, drawing back some, eyeing him up and tensing, readying.. studying..
"If'n ya want me outta my shirt, it looks like it'd be easier for ya t' just ask!" Cauwyn quipped as he knocked aside her blade with his own before she started dancing away. The way she moved, continuous and graceful, it served her better than Cauwyn thought it would. She knew what she was doing and if she kept it up? She could no doubt become an even better swords men. As he twisted and pulled up his arm flicking down his wrist to bring his sword down just in time to parry another strike of hers, something occurred to him.
"Princess," Cauwyn asked quietly, his sword still kept at the ready as he stood flat footed with a smirk on his lips, "are you usin' your magic?"
OOC: Short, I know, but I just woke up!
Katahnia paused in her prancing to look at him.
"I would never!" she said, and smacked her blade against his. "Really, claiming a woman might cheat?" She smacked at his blade again, laughing more darkly as she moved about.
"Really, Cauwyn, I'd think you'd trust me better than that!" she quipped, and danced lightly towards him again, a twirl and a thrust, aiming quickly towards his other shoulder- hoping to seek out a second rip.
"Oh I trust ya alright!" Cauwyn laughed, letting his sword slide along the blade of hers. Dancing and hissing in dark dangerous kisses, "But I think yer misunderstandin' me.. If'n your not usin' your magic, ya should be.." He capitalized his point by knocking away her blade with more force than was necessary, blade striking blade in reverberating glory.
It was his turn to spin his sword, watching her with intense eyes. His breathing was starting to get heavier from all the moving around. And speaking of heavy, his sword was starting to get pretty heavy too. His muscles, sore and aching, were getting more and more tired as the time went on. He grinned at the thought that, eventually, she was going to beat him just because he couldn't continue.
"I know I don't know much 'bout it, but.." Cauwyn gave a small shrug, "can ya use it on yerself? Make yourself faster or stronger? Maybe make th' other person weaker?"
"I have learned tricks to enchant weapons with ice or fire, or both," she said, eyes dancing as he parried one of his strikes. Dancing lightly, she kept at it, thrusting towards him, slicing quickly, desperately trying to make her mark as her breath began to grow more heavier as she panted and huffed and moved and thrust.
"And you saw me in crystal before,"s he came again, aiming her blade a bit higher, slicing towards his head, before trying to come down towards his shoulder again, then away as she paused, chest heaving as she spoke. "I used up all of my magical aura to seal myself away into an impenetrable case." She tried to strike again, but found her attempt, much weaker, her arm almost wilting as tears started to form within her eyes. "They would have killed me other wise."s he spoke, not sure why she told him this, but then anger became her and she ignored her tears and thrust her weapon again, much more viciously as she seemed to lose all aim.
It was interesting to know she could enchant he weapons with fire or ice. That could have been handy earlier when they were starting the fire, but Cauwyn was glad she hadn't used her magic. Her bright, child-like smile as she struck at the flint until the tender had gone up in flames. That was an accomplishment you couldn't take from her, and it was done without magic. Just like the cut in his clothes, she had done it without magic.
Cauwyn had lost track of things in thoughts, still able to parry away her blows at first it became increasingly hard. Then he saw the tears. Heard the heat of anger in her voice. And he most certainly felt the heavy weight of her strikes against him. She looked tired, or at least he had thought she did, until she tapped into that anger and started attacking with much less control and much more viciousness.
"Focus!" Cauwyn hissed at her, "Use that anger! Focus it!" It was one of the best things you could do in a fight, get angry. Anger could give you strength and speed, it put pain out of your mind and gave you your second wind. But that was only if you controlled it. When anger controlled you in a fight, things became much more difficult.
"I don't," Cauwyn grunted, speaking between blocks as Katahnias onslaught drove him backwards, "understand. What do you mean, used it up? Like ya can't use magic no more? Or like ya gotta give your magic a rest or somethin'?" Cauwyn didn't understand much about magic, except that it didn't kill him like it did others, but he knew a little. How it could be used up and a mage would have to rest up a while. That was often the best time to strike at them.
Katahnia kept slashing away, his words a mere blur as her tears began to blind her. And she gave a few more heated swings before stumbling forward and falling to her knees where he proceeded to sob with her face cast downwards towards the mud and dirt.
OOC: Sorry it's short D:
Katahnia's attacks had backed him into a tree. As the girl kept coming Cauwyn wondered if he would have the strength to keep blocking her attacks. He knew he could end it, especially since the girl had given up any technique, but that wasn't what he wanted. It wasn't that he wouldn't, but that he just couldn't do that. Not after the oath he had made her.
Luckily for him she collapsed, though it broke his heart. Cauwyn took a single, calming breath and then spun his sword in his hand until it was point down. He thrust the blade into the ground again before quickly closing the gap to Katahnia. He fell to his knees, mindful of her sword, and wrapped his arms around her. He pulled the girl, both of them soaking wet now, against himself nestling her head onto his shoulder.
Despite the lapse in time, having awoken from her crystal prison only served to throw her right back into a land several years after the chaos, when it, to her, had only happened seconds before she had imprisoned herself. They were surrounded, fire's burned everywhere; the entire place shook terribly...
and they had promised her, threatened her she'd die as an example...
Mage lovers in Connlaothe beware...
But instead, she had faded away into nothing but a haunting memory.
A ghost...
Yet here she was, reawakened, magic weakened, which she could feel was still regenerating inside her body as she collapsed against Cauwyn and sobbed into the cradle between his neck and shoulder. The emotions were too real, the devastating effects it had on her land...
Yes, it was gone.
All if gone.
And it would never return again.
After a time, she began to calm again him, trembling even as she barely managed to utter the words, "I'm sorry, Cauwyn." She tried to push away, wore a fake smile as she lowered her head, trying to divert her tear filled eyes from him. "I.. I ruined our little spare."S he said, pushing herself up to face him, eyes now glossed with tears, lips still stretching into a forced smile as she tried to calm her reeling mind from it's misery.
"I..guess it takes a lot longer to recover from the shock of the crystal magic."s he said lamely, and turned away, brushing at the ever falling tears from her eyes.
Cauwyn honestly had no idea what she was feeling. He had no way to know, no way to even begin to understand what it must be like to lose so much in what seemed to be only a matter of seconds. He couldn't even begin to comprehend the level of shock and trauma it would take for him to even begin to imagine what she had endured. He couldn't do any of that, but what he could understand was that she was pretty fucked up by it. That, to put it lamely and to condense all of those thoughts, feeling and emotions down into something manageable to him, it must be pretty tough. And Cauwyn also knew that, while he had absolutely no idea how to help her, he wanted to. When she pulled away, he let her go standing up with her.
As she turned and moved away from him, fake smile plastered on her lips, Cauwyn followed her. He wouldn't let her walk away. Cauwyn put a gentle calloused hand onto her shoulder and squeezed it reassuringly before he turned her around to look at him. He had a small, sad half smile as he looked down at her.
"Princess," He said in a gentle voice that hinted slightly with humor, "you're a terrible liar, ya know that?"
He pulled her close again, wrapping his arms around her once more. His hand reached up to gently clasp the back of her head, gently stroking her wet hair. He turned his head so that it pressed against the side of hers and tilted it down so he could whisper into her ear, "Don't be sorry, princess, yeah? Ya ain't got nothin' ya need t' apologize t' me for.."
Katahnia couldn't resist him if she wanted to, finding herself falling lamely into his arms as her body turned numb, eyes blurring over with hot tears. And she found herself needing him, holding him, clinging tight. Her body began to shake, tears wracking her body as she wept. And his words were all that she needed, and his arms to support.
So she said nothing, simply breathing in his scents and letting her body go to tears.
OOC: Short post is short 8D
He didn't know how long they stood out there in the rain, holding each other as she cried. He just knew he would stand there all night if he had to, if that was all he could do to help her then it's what he would do. The wind blew and the mist picked up into a a good drizzle for a bit, the ice cold drops of water feeling somewhat refreshing on his hot, tired, sweaty body. He was sore and the chill of the breeze, at first comforting, began to make him feel a bit stiff. But still, he held her.
The feeling of her body against him hadn't even registered to him in any form of sexual way. He could smell her scent, feel the press of her chest to his with every breath through their thin wet clothes, but it nothing more than a physical comfort to him. Something warm and pleasant and wholesome. A way to share his strength with her and nothing more.
But as her tears ran out and it became time to part, when he unwrapped his arms and stepped away from her he became acutely aware of just how close they had been. And how much he had enjoyed her being pressed against him. Without the feeling of her body pressed against his, it felt as though something was missing from his life. It was a confusing feeling to have, but he shook it off and instead of focusing on what it could mean he went to collect the swords instead.
"Come on," Cauwyn said in that same gentle tone as he took both blades in one hand and rested them over his shoulder. His other arm snaking around the back of her shoulders as he gave her a gentle press back toward their camp, "let's get back an' outta this rain. We'll practice more t'morrow. We need t' get some sleep, we don't know how far the next town is from here, either.."
Katahnia only nodded when they broke apart, and lamely followed him back beneath the make shift home of the pine. She shivered when they neared the fire, not realizing how cold she was, having her body, dress and hair now soaked in rain. But she moved to curl beside the fire, staring at the flames absently as her mind drifted off to thought. Shivering again,s he finally turned to look at Cauwyn and smiled warmly.
"Thank you, I.." she smiled sheepishly, tucking back some of her red-blonde hair as she stared into the flames. "I.. just needed a moment like that." She closed her mouth, but left her lips slightly parted, eyes drifting back to the flames as they crackled and appeared to have died somewhat since their endeavor. THe only thing that pulled her eyes away from it was when the horse outside have a sputter, and she turned towards the stallion and smiled, a genuine smile, however sad it might be before she wiped away a final tear and drew in a long breath.
"I suppose it's all of the consequences of dealing with war," she turned her eyes to study Cauwyn a moment before offering another soft smile along with her soft eyes.
As Katahnia settled in by the fire Cauwyn busied himself with more mundane things. He put away their swords and then gathered up the cooking pot, putting it outside to gather more rain. When he saw Katahnia shiver by the fire he went to his roll of supplies and untangled his heavy traveling cloak from it. Even though the tiny tree-hut trapped the heat of the fire well, he could still feel the chill of being wet and cold. Cauwyn returned to the fire, kneeling beside Katahnia and wrapping the cloak around her shoulders.
When she thanked him, Cauwyn simply waved it away. He didn't want to think back on it, on her crying hot tears into his shoulder. He didn't know how to deal with that. He couldn't make fun of it, or fight it, or even run away from it. He grabbed a few logs, now mostly dry from being near the fire, and placed them strategically within the flames. He was stoking the flames with quick jabs from his hand when she mentioned war. He turned to look at Katahnia with a similar sad smile.
"Yeah, princess, that uh... That's a pretty good statement.." Her soft eyes upon him Cauwyn easily got lost within them, his mind unraveling almost as he stared back with expressive hazel eyes. He swallowed as his mind came back to him and in the face of her sad smile he offered her a sheepish one, "Heh, they always say wars hell.. That's what they mean, yeah? It's not so bad durin' the fightin' and killin', it's after yeah? When ya just got time t' think..."
Katahnia stared at Cauwyn as he replied, then allowed her eyes to drift towards the crackle flames. SHe shivered and nestled herself into the cloak before giving way to a soft sneeze. Blinking, it surprised her, tickled her even as she bashfully smiled and rubbed the back of her wrist against it.
"I suppose playing in the rain has some consequence, too." she added, smiling a little at the thought.
OOC: A short post first thing in the morning 8D
OOC: Woo! Early morning posts!
IC:
He couldn't help but grin and chuckle at the surprised look she gave when she sneezed, "Yeah, well, fun always has a price, yeah?" Cauwyn stoked the fire with his hand and then stood, as best he was able, and went back to his pack. He retrieved his bedroll and brought it back over, laying it out near the fire.
"We'll get ya warmed up, take off some of that chill. I'd offer ya some dry clothes but.." He gestured toward his things, now strewn in some disarray from his continuous rummaging. He hadn't tied up his things in his cloak like he normally did when it was raining. As a result, most everything he owned was wet, "I was a bit rushed packin', yeah? If'n ya want.." He paused, giving her look as he decided whether or not to finish the thought given her prudishness, "well, ya should probably undress. An' use that cloak for cover.. It'll keep ya warmer and let yer dress dry faster.." He quickly added.
Kathnia stared at Cauwyn for a long while as her cheeks heated up into a blush over the idea.
"I.."s he turned away, staring at the flames and fussing nervously with her hair. "I suppose I could just stay awake longer and near to the fire, hoping the heat will dry my skin and most of my clothes."
It wasn't that she did not appreciate the gesture, it was that she couldn't accept such an idea. Infact, she was quite sure if given the choice, a woman of her status ought to have suffered and died than become compromised into such little clothing.
She was tired, however, and knew she wouldn't last much longer through the hour as she fought off a yawn.
OOC: OMGERD, TWO POSTS IN THE MORNIN' 8D
"Hey, it's your choice," Cauwyn shrugged casually as he settled down near the fire. He was polite enough to not stare at her as she blushed, instead focusing on the crackling flames of the fire. He held out his hands to warm them, "an' I ain't sayin' I'm noble enough t' sleep out in the rain for ya, but I can promise ya the decency of a turned back until your settled and comfortable.."
He rubbed his hands together, well aware of how cold and tired he was as well, "Ya can try stayin' awake for it, but its gonna take a while an' ya only run the risk of gettin' sicker.." He cleared his throat, trying to offer some objectivity with a casual tone, "I mean, back on the tundra, it wasn't so uncommon for men an' women t' strip down naked an' lay next t' one another to share body heat.. Or, ya know, men an' men.. Nothin' sexual 'bout it, just survival really..."
He shot her quick, sheepish look then realizing how that may have sounded, "Not that, ya know, I'm suggestin' that. I'm just sayin', uh...it could be worse or somethin'.." He let out a heavy sigh as he slowly turned away, busying himself with staring at the fire.
OOC: *snickers*
IC:
Katahnia turned to him, her eyes soft as she smiled at the gesture, but as he continued speaking, her eyes went wide. She was naive to such endeavors and only stared at him, almost in an appalled sort of wonder. Then she found herself in a coughing fit and turned away, busying her eyes on the fire.
"I suppose it makes sense but I.." she fussed over her hair and skirts nervously before finally turning her green eyes back to him. "Well, to a lady that sounds quite scandalous." She smiled a little. "Forgive me, it's.. hard to digest certain facts." She shook her head a little, sheepishly avoiding his gaze. "But I hear the tundra has such harsh conditions..."
Who knew survival could meant ignorance of modesty and propriety!
"I won't pretend t' know anything 'bout what it must be like, growin' up all noble an' stuff.." Cauwyn sighed as he tried to think of how best to voice his opinion, without being too offensive, "but, it seems t' me, from all the well-to-do folk I've met that...well, ya'll kinda have a spear up your asses.." Yeah, that seemed pretty inoffensive.
"I mean, I guess maybe I just don't understand it.." He shrugged, finally looking away from the fire and back to Katahnia, "There just seem t' be so many rules. Who t' talk to an' when, who ya can and can't marry, who ya gotta bow to an' who's ass t' kiss.." He shook his head, staring at the fire, "It just all seems, I don't know, kinda pointless to me.."
He looked back from the fire to Katahnia again, "Yeah, the tundra ain't a nice place. It'll eat ya if you let it, an' it can happen t' anyone. Soon as ya stop respectin' her, she'll kill ya. So, things like worryin' about who's wearin' what clothes an stuff kinda falls t' the wayside.. An' then, well, it pro'lly wouldn't be right t' tell ya what sorta stuff goes on in a mercenary camp, but.." He shook his head again, this time releasing a heavy sigh as his eyes dropped to the ground. He had said too much and allowed too much to come back to him, "well, it ain't very propper.. Maybe, I don't know, bein' around a buncha stuck up nobles might not 'ave been such a bad thing.."
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh at his comment about noble's seeming to have 'a stick up their asses'. Yep, that would describe a lot of them.
"There are a lot of rules, but the way it was taught to me was those of a certain blood line fought to have what they possessed and passed on that knowledge and wealth to their kids, finding wealth eternal through blood. I guess, you can see us nobles are kind of selfish that way. It's like, if you can't play by our rules, you can not be good enough to command your own kingdom." She shrugged. "I was only involved in some politics, so I couldn't say for all, but it is definitely it's own unique chore of survival." she shrugged again, smiling a bit sheepishly. "A way to survive and keep yours and your own in luxury."s he stared down at her feet, not really realizing how absurd it all was until she actually had a chance to say it out loud, and no had something else to really compare it to. After all, Cauwyn had such a difficult life....
Most of her family seemed to ignore what was going on in the outside world, but not entirely-
she knew about the struggle, but never truly felt the effects of it all until her world came tumbling down. SHe supposed she could blame both of her parents for her stubborness and dedication.
"It probably all sounds so silly,"s he commented after a time, hugging her knees to her chest and staring into the fire's flames.
OOC: Sooo early!! Hope this makes sense..
IC:
As Katahnia explained the rules, or at least some of them, of noble society the color of the picture began to change. It still seemed pretty pointless to him, but then he had never really been in a position of nobility had he? His face twisted into a frown as he considered the possibilities, a calloused hand rising up to rub against the stubble on his jaw.
"I ain't never had a real family, my parents weren't strong 'nough t' keep me.." He mused casually as he stared into the fire in thought, "but that don't mean I don't understand families. I guess, if ya put it that way, that it's all t' see who can follow the rules better and to keep your family wealthy.." He shrugged, a small amused smile spreading as he turned his hazel eyes back to Katahnia.
"I don't know, kinda sounds a lot like a game, yeah?" He chuckled slightly, "Ya know, a very dangerous game with a lotta rules an' consequences.."
Katahnia smiled darkly at the concept.
He was right.
It was like a dark game.
And her family had lost at it.
"Well, I suppose I won't have to be worrying about that anymore. There is no point in reminding myself I'm a lady when my family is dead." She sighed and stared back into the fire, mesmerized by the dancing flames. "I wonder if the kingdom who destroyed mine went so much as to go after my cousins or uncles." Her eyes appeared a bit hopeful, but then the fire inside them began to fade away as she frowned.
"But for all I know, it could have been centuries since I've been asleep."s he lowered her gaze. "No one in my extended family might recognize me." but there was still a slight bubble of hope growing inside her-
If one of her extended relatives that remembered her WAS alive...
was there a chance for her to reclaim at least her title, some of her dignity?
Or was that another dark game to play?
OOC: You're fine 8D Made sense to me!
OOC: Sorry, it's a shorty!
IC:
"Well," Cauwyn said with a slight shrug as he considered the question, or at least what he considered to be a question. An unspoken question asked of him, maybe not even knowingly. Not that Cauwyn was that in depth with thought, but somewhere in that subc!onscious mind of his things were turning and ideas were cooking, "then I guess we know where we're headin' to, yeah?" He turned his attention from the fire and leveled a grin at Katahnia, "We'll go an' see if'n your cousins an' uncles are still around!"
Katahnia was taken back by the suggestion as she stared over at Cauwyn, the light of the fire lapping at her face. And then her lips went small, twitching even before they blossomed into a full smile across her lips.
"Are you sure you weren't some heroic knight before you met me?" the young woman asked, laughing beautifully. "I don't even know what to say! But that certainly sounds like a grand idea!" And then she paused to study his face. The scars and wildness aside, there was something about him that she found so very attractive and also, so very refreshing. Drawing in a breath, she blushed and looked away. "But I couldn't ask you to escort me all the way Norwark! It's several days travel from here." She shook her head, slipping some hair behind her ear before pressing her lips together in thought. "I'm sure you've had some place to be before running into a lady trapped inside a crystal." She raised her eyes back to his and forced a smile. "I do believe I've already taken up so much of your time!"
Not that she would mind the escort, the company and the companionship, but she also had to offer the man an alternative, after all, it was really not his choice to be here- though she supposed, part of it ways. Fate was peculiar that way and one had to wonder why it thrust two such individuals together, in the haunting remains of war...
"Oh, I'm pretty sure.." Cauwyn said with a small chuckle, only half-joking, when she asked if he had been a knight. She was happy, and that pleased him. Why it mattered to him, he wasn't entirely sure. He liked to think of it as greed, maybe he could get something out of it, but Cauwyn knew he would have escorted this woman no matter where she wanted to go. Listening to his conscience after so many years of suppressing it, he hadn't been sure he would even be able to tell what right from wrong, good from evil was anymore. It seemed however, that the hammering in his chest when her face lit up in a smile was just the indication he needed that he was on the right track.
"Norwark is as good a place as any for me," He said with a small shrug of his shoulders, still grinning and pleased that she was happy with the idea, "I had no real destination t' speak of, and I'm sure there's plenty of work there just as anywhere else, yeah? Besides, I can't have ya goin' there all alone princess, the roads are dangerous an' I'd be a pretty shit knight then, yeah?" He grinned at that last one, it actually touching his eyes this time.
Katahnia laughed, warm and soft.
"I guess I can't argue with such logic," she confirmed. "I would be grateful for the company." She smiled over at him again, feeling her heart flutter as she admired his smile before turning her green eyes back towards the flames.
"I would feel horrible though,"s he continued. "If we travel all the way out there to find out it's for not." She shook her head, but still smiled. "Still.."S he turned her gaze back to his. "It's nice to know I have a knight on my side." And her eyes sparkled playfully at the idea.
"Bah, woman!" Cauwyn mockingly chastised, twisting from where he sat to put his back to the fire. He grinned over at her, shaking his head admonishingly, "You're bein' too negative, an' that's comin' from me! Whether or not your family still rules there is a moot point, at least 'til we get there. I'm not sayin' get your hopes up, but don't just crush 'em right out the gate.."
He pulled his own knees to his chest, wrapping his arms around his legs. The damp fabric of his clothes twisted and stretched to fit the need of his new position, "We'll make travel there, hopefully we'll have the coin we need. Then," Cauwyn grinned, looking over at her, "when we get there, I can finish what it was I was lookin' for. Aside from work that is.." There was a twinkle of mirth in those hazel eyes, not to mention the grin that showed how excited he was at the idea.
Katahnia smiled appreciatively over towards him and leaned her face against her knees.
"And what are you looking for?" she asked, smiling much more brightly and sweetly than before.
OOC: This is the shortest post for me.. EVAR ;_;
Don't hurt me lol
but I didn't want to post fluff when really.. what I typed is all that I wanted to reply with 8D
but if you want me to add more I guess I *could*! DX
OOC: No worries!! Sometimes a quick answer is all you need!
IC:
"A hot bath, bed without bugs or lice, and several," Cauwyn leaned closer to emphasize the point, "and I do mean several, mugs of mead!" He laughed loudly and leaned back, "Or ale, I 'spose, since I ain't yet found a man t' make mead as they do in the tundra!" He continued laughing. He had left out the other part, and mostly for her benefit. While a woman to share the bed with would be nice, he doubted it would earn him any points with the duchess.
As his laughter died down into a grin, he leaned forward again. This time he gave her a curious look, his head tilting slightly to the side, "Have you ever been to a tavern before? Or an inn, for that matter?"
Katahnia smiled at him warmly.
"I can't say that I have. My father finds them uncouth. I suppose my mother does as well, but I do believe they serve their purpose well for the people. After all, not everyone can stay in a castle." She smiled a bit sadly at that, despite it being a jest and shrugged.
"Are you invited me to some mead at a tavern with you?" she then asked playfully, idly brushing off some dirt from her wet, ripped sleeve before she glanced over to him.
"Well, princess, I most certainly am!" He said with a grin and a slight bow of his head. It looked like a polite gesture, though it was more to hid the fact that he could feel his cheeks redden. It wasn't as if he had never asked a girl to join him for drinks at a tavern or inn, just that usually the girl was already there. And it had been a formality for what would come next. In this though, Cauwyn really did just want to enjoy Katahnia's company. To be with her at her first tavern experience. At the thought of her returning to castle life if they were to find her family, it may be her only visit. That took a bit of wind from his sales, but he forced himself to keep the smile when he looked back up, "An' with any luck we'll find a place on the way. That way ya can enjoy some of that, uh, uncouth life, before ya get back t' livin' in a castle.."
He grinned at a thought, "Just think 'bout how ya could tell all them noble folk how ya had mead in a tavern with a rough man, maybe played a game of darts or 9-pin? You'd be the talk of the castle I'd think.."
Katahnia gave a brief chuckle.
"Then I suppose I should consider myself fortunate I have such a well versed knight! Showing me combat techniques, offering to buy me drinks.." she looked towards him a bit more flirtatiously through her long lashes as she smirked. "It sounds like our little adventure could be fun."
And would be a nice distraction against all of the depression that was still hounding her subconsciously. She would have to get over her family's destruction and demise at some point-
but it would certainly take a lot of time.
And it seemed having a friend, a companion like Cauwyn was making it all the easier. She smiled warmly at the thought.
"Oh there's plenty of stuff I can teach ya, princess.." He said without thinking, lost in her eyes as they peeked at him through those lashes. It made his throat feel dry and drew him, quite literally, to her. He almost didn't realize he was leaning steadily closer to her until he lost his balance. His hand shot down to catch himself and he twisted at the waist until his lower back popped. This shot at playing off his awkward fall also gave him the added benefit of turning his head from her to hid the very noticeable burning in his cheeks now.
"Yes, well," He coughed to clear his throat before twisting in the other direction and then continuing on with the charade, "an' most of it I'm sure your family wouldn't approve of. Ya know, what bugs an' plants t' eat. What mushrooms are good, which ones are great," He stopped his stretch and looked at her with a wide grin giving her a quick raise of his brows, "an' which can be poisonous. Ya know, that sorta thing, yeah?"
He looked back at her hopeful. Maybe she hadn't noticed any of it?
Kathania's eyes widened as she glanced down to where the man seemed to fall, barely catching himself, but was soon smiling as he pressed onward with his words.
"So I take it if I wanted mushrooms, you'd be kind enough to point out ones that would not be of poison?" she tilted her head playfully, then gave way to a yawn and dropped back as she stretched out against the pine.
"And here I find myself wishing our soup had some mushrooms for the broth, but my eyes are becoming dreadfully tired,"s he admitted, and lay there for a time, staring up through the branches of the tree.
"Cauwyn,"S eh said after a moment, the crackle of the fire brewing between them. "Are you sure our alliance won't be any trouble?" She peered over at him curiously.
"I know I keep asking this but.."s he sighed. "I can't help but feel I'm at a slight disadvantage in our proposition, and also, that I am quite a burden I don't know much about what I must do on this road set before me." She sighed again but smiled at him. "Though I do appreciate all of it. All that you've done for me. Even in this short time we've known one another." She turned her smiling eyes up towards the bottom of the tree, and her smile grew ever wider as she thought towards the future.
"I find the idea a lot more enjoyable than it should be," she admitted, fire lapping in a beautiful, orange roll of light cross her laying form.
"Ah, don't worry.. They'll be plenty of time for mushrooms, princess!" He grinned slyly, "An' yes, I'll make sure ya don't eat th' bad ones.."
Cauwyn watched her lay down with a small smile. He was bone tired too, but planned to stay awake for at least a bit long. His hand reached over to the wineskin of before. Sleep was something Cauwyn was not so comfortable with. He knew, tired as he was, he would probably sleep through the night and awaken early, but the chance that he might not was enough to set him on edge. The thought that the nightmares would come for him, the restless sleepless night and the raw throat waking up from a night of screams? All of this made worse by the fact that Katahnia was here. No, no he wouldn't subject her to that. Cauwyn pulled the stopper from the wine and took a healthy swig, suppressing his cough as best he could to let her sleep.
"Hmm?" Cauwyn responded to his name, looking over at her once more. The way the light of the fire played over her body. Laid out with only hinting glimpses of a dress he knew would be clinging to her form still beautiful beneath his heavy cloak. Once again he found something stirring within him just at her sight, but it was her words that drew his mind from such thoughts.
"Yeah, I suppose ya might make things a bit harder.." He said with a slight frown as he thought. Why she would be worried about her being a burden to him, he didn't know. If he hadn't wanted it, he could have just let those men back at her castle have her, "but ya make things better as well, ya know? Like, ya make me laugh. An', ya give me someone t' talk to." Cauwyn grinned, "An' ya ride a horse a shit load better than I do, I'll tell ya that.."
He took another heavy pull from the wineskin as he thought for a moment, this time not even trying to hide his cough as it burned its way down, "I find I like sharin' the road with ya princess, s'long as yer not fallin' all over me.." He gave her a pointed look, but softened it with a good natured grin. The grin became a bit wolfish, "Though I could think of a lot worse things t' be fallin' across m' body than you, princess.."
Cauwyn lifted the wineskin, stopped for a moment as if deciding against it, and then took another drink anyways, "Gah, taste like shit.." He muttered under his breath, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. After a moment and with a solid nod, Cauwyn gave her a cocky half smile, "I'm glad ya like it, Katahnia. I like it too.."
Kathania listened to him quietly as she nestled into the needles and pines. It made for much softer grounds,a nd despite not being a plush bed as she was used to, it would work all the same. She sighed and nuzzled her face against her hands that she worked in a way to work as pillows to support her head a bit more and give her neck a more comfortable angle.
Then she sighed again, eyes closing as she smiled.
"I'm glad too," was all she murmured, finding herself beginning to drift off into sleep...
"It's nice.. having you..." and the thoughts were lost as dreams became her.
Cauwyn watched her bed down, drifting off into sleep. He took a few more swigs from the wineskin, stopping only after he felt a heavy buzz settling over him. Cauwyn took another log and placed it into the fire, making sure they would have warmth throughout the night. He pulled off his damp linen shirt and laid it over the small wall made of the remaining logs. Then gathering up his other clothes he moved it all closer to the fire. He considered removing his pants, but his eyes drifted drunkenly to the sleeping Katahnia. The idea of her waking up before him, seeing him naked, caused a quick burst of laughter. He coughed it away, trying his best to hide the laughter shaking his head.
Pleasantly drunk, warm and half naked Cauwyn finally curled himself down into the soft pine. He took another drink of the wineskin, knowing the fullness would also help wake him in the morning with the call of nature. Everything set and ready, his sword nearby, Cauwyn drifted off into an uneasy sleep as well.
OOC: So, do we advance them to Norwark? Or maybe just a town along the way with a tavern? Or, do you want to play out the travel? Because me? I'm down for anything!
Her sleep was peaceful, but she woke up just as the same began to rise, casting the warm in it's pink light. She lifted herself from the comfort of the pines with a stifled yawn, stretching her sore body before turning to glance at Cauwyn. SHe found herself staring a moment at his bare chest, eyes becoming entranced by the plethora of scars that puffed and recessed in silent stories across his body. Most notable, her eyes fell across a series of scar marks across his left shoulder, and she found herself almost reaching out to touch them before she with drew.
She had only ever seen a man this close to nakedness a few times and was curious for it, finding herself liking what she saw, but also feeling pity for the man. He must have lived quite a hard life to acquire such notable marks on his body. She, on ht eother hand, had a body of perfection- soft silky skin having been pampered for most of her life- it was something only a man like him could ever dream of having, or even dream to touch.
Finding herself becoming too transfixed, she tore her eyes away from him and moved out from the warmth beneath the pines and stretched out against the first breaths of the sun. It was cool and refreshing, sending a light chill to her skin that rippled it as she shivered. Her hair and clothes were still damp, which she noted with a bit of a frown after having discarded Cauwyn's cloak over him to work as a blanket as he had slept. He could use it more than she right now as she sought to explore their small sanctuary beneath the rising sun.
Tall trees jutted out from the ground, reaching upwards towards the sky several miles above her head. She walked away, though did not stray too far as she admired them. This was a portion of her duchy that was considered the wilds, and was probably used more or less exclusively for hunting grounds. Now, it was just merely unclaimed territory, and probably left to more holds on bandits, like the men they had met earlier.
She had found a smooth rock to sit upon near the horse, and found herself making idle use of the silver brush she had as she began to work at her hair. The braids, that had once adorned it, she fussed over and untangled and just let her entire hair flow freely to her shoulders,a nd slowly, ever so slowly, pulled the teeth of the brush through.
It didn't take long for her hair to appear as silk, and after a time, she turned her affections towards the black horse and began to brush out his mane. He seemed hardly as enthused as she, but only lightly nudged her in silent complaint as she offered him some sweet grass she pulled from a tuft nearby.
"Now, now, you'll look handsome when i'm done,"s he told him.
The horse swished it's ear about at the prospect, seeming skeptical as it turned it's head away.
"Now. now, don't give me that sort of attitude now,"s he playfully chided. but the horse seemed nonplused as she went about brushing his soft hair until it looked as silky smooth as her own and gave way to a gentle hum of a song from a time long go.
The day of pleasant company had done wonders for his psyche it seemed. No dark dreams of old battles or fitful whims of new ones troubled him. The scars he bore marred not just his body, but his mind as well. Along with many that were unseen to all but the recesses of his mind. Blind, unfiltered, and overly invasive fear was par for the course at most times. Cauwyn was not, like so many claimed, fearless in battle. Quite the opposite really, he had more than a healthy dose of fear. It's why he still walked the earth when so many others did not. But that came with a deep, wounding price.
His heavy, drunken snores grew louder as the sun grew higher. Loud enough that, in the middle of one particular in hale, he awoke with a coughing start. Cauwyn blinked, trying to figure out what had awoken him while at the same time why his mouth tasted like fairy poop. He worked his tongue within it and smacked his lips, blurry eyes looking around their cozy little camp.
Katahnia was gone and he was covered in his cloak. Maybe it had all just been a pleasant dream he mused as he rose, stretching in the cool morning air. He groaned and sighed, his muscles very angry and sore while various joints popped and creaked with the movement. He felt the effect of last nights drinking as a slight throb in his head and an every growing sense of urgency in his bladder. He groaned and looked around, a small smile forming on his lips where he saw the impression in the pine-needles where the duchess had lain. Oh to have been a pine needle, or his cloak for that matter... Or to just be him, wrapped around her in---
Katahnia was gone! His eyes widened with the realization. He twisted rapidly, pulling away his cloak even as it started to tangle around him and tossing it aside. Wild hazel eyes took in the camp site about him. Everything seemed to be there still, so if someone had taken her they hadn't taken anything else. His hand went to his sword and the blade was drawn half-way from its sheath when he first heard the soft musical sounds of her voice.
A heavy sigh of relief escaped him and Cauwyn let the blade fall back into his sheath before he collapsed to the ground with a groan. She was fine, or so it sounded, and so maybe a few more minutes wouldn't be so bad. But of course, his body said no and in a very urgent way. Cauwyn groaned again, pushing himself to his bare feet and ducked out of the tree haven.
He said nothing to Katahnia as he appeared. Instead he simply stumbled away from her disappearing again away from the camp and behind one of the trees. Where he stayed with only a sliver of his scared back visible to her for a couple of minutes. After nature had been answered his whole body shivered from a mixture of the cold and the pleasure that followed what he had done.
Cauwyn stumbled his way back, bare feet silent on the woodland floor, until he stood a few feet from her. His muscles shifted and tightened in a long languid stretch. Then he fixed the horse, who looked as pleased as he had been to have his hair combed, with a knowing and somewhat smug smirk.
"Not so tough now, yeah?" He stated smugly before letting all his muscles relax at once. He looked at Katahnia through half-lidded red eyes and flashed her a small smile, "Good mornin' princess, yer up awfully early.."
Katahnia heard Cauwyn stir and chanced a glance in his direction, only to redirect her eyes when she realized, oh...
He was doing something necessary behind a tree.
A blush graced her cheeks as she went back to her humming song, a wider smile now drawn more largely across her lips.
When he approached, she didn't look at him right away, but turned shyly to smile at him and then laughed a little at his comment about the horse.
"He looks very handsome." she said, playfully kissing the tip of the horse's nose. THen she turned back towards Cauwyn as she patted the horse between his ears.
"I figured I can't be the only one with nicely brushed hair. It would be rude of me not to offer."s he grinned a bit wickedly as she observed Cauwyn's hair. It looked interesting with it sticking up in all sorts of god-awful directions, mixed with spikes from sleep.. and pine. The needles bristled out against the wild tufts, making her silently laugh at him, her eyes glowing bright.
"Good morning, Sir Cauwyn," she finally told him, holding out her brush. "Are you ready to be officially knighted under the order of my silver brush?"s he asked playfully. THe horse swished it's tail, staring over towards the man as if mocking him in silent question.
"Ah, uh..." Cauwyn nervously scratched the back of his neck as he eyed the silver brush. Oh he knew what was in store. He ran his hand back through his hair, dislodging some of the pine needles and only getting caught in a few twisted spiky knots. Oh no, there would be no more of that, "I, uh... Should, uh, um... probably put some clothes on, yeah? Maybe pack?" He gave her a hopeful grin, and then glared at the horse who seemed to be much to smug for its own good.
His glare softened as he looked back at Katahnia, his smile returning as he bowed heavily. Hoping to add more to the argument and get himself out of another painful attack by her brush. Which he was half convinced held some form of evil witchcraft within it, "It would be, uh, uncouth? Yeah, uncouth for a woman of yer...your stature t' be seen wanderin' 'round with a half dressed man, yeah?"
Katahnia only smiled at him, though her blush quickly grew more hot as he pressed the idea. Her eyes went to his bare chest, then quickly averted, knuckles going white around the silver brush.
"I suppose you're right."s he admitted softly.
The horse gave a snort, eyeing Cauwyn warily as it pawed twice at the dirt.
"Course, if'n ya want me to walk around half naked..." Cauwyn let his voice trail off as he went back to their camp with an ear to ear grin. He had seen, that brief moment where she looked at him and blushed. And he had decided to jump on it like a tiger, though he at least had the decency to wait until he was inside the boughs of the tree before he started to snicker.
Truth was, however, that he had been just as mesmerized by the look of the beautiful woman sitting upon a rock in the early sunlight. Her hair hanging about her shoulders like a waterfall of the suns own golden-red rays. That mixed with her still damp dress in the cool morning air? He had to get out of there before he embarrassed himself, or her for that matter.
He climbed back out wearing the clothes he'd had on the day before. Simple pants and a dark tunic, which he cinched at the waist with his weapons belt. Cauwyn was adjusting the buckle on his baldric when he looked up at her with a broad, pleased grin. He was, for all intents and purposes, just happy to see her.
Katahnia heard him move away as she lifted her head, and found herself staring at his form before he disappeared beneath the tree of pine. Smiling bashfully, she turned towards the horse and stroked his face and he merely nudged her as she bit into her lower lip, trying to suppress her smile.. but really...
was it such a crime to admire a handsome mans' body? After all, what else was she to do with her eyes, and she took some time, tilting her head, to watch him get dressed from afar, but soon averted her gaze when she had the chance, fussing over the horse as she cooed to him.
But the horse was nonplused. He knew better and gave a snort and another paw to the ground. Leaving his side, Katahnia moved towards Cauwyn.
"What about the knighting?"s he inquired playfully. "My silver brush is waiting."
His smile faltered somewhat as he found himself starring up at her and her silver brush. He shot the horse another glare, somehow a hundred percent convinced the horse had tattled on him. The horse, for it's part, seemed rather unconcerned with Cauwyns glare. And also a bit smug, Cauwyn noted.
"Uh, yeah... heh, can't have that silver brush waiting, right?" He forced a broad grin as he waddled out the rest of the way on his knees. Kneeling in front of her as he was, he couldn't help but notice how close to her he was. Her smell, still heavenly in the cool morning air after a night by a campfire. The way the pinkish red light of the early morning sun caught on her hair, bathing her face in a warm glow. He felt his mouth go dry again and his palms began to sweat. He wished he had put on those fingerless leather gloves of his as he wiped away the sweat on his pants legs, "So, uh.. What, um, does one have t' do at a knighting ceremony?" It was hard to think, or more so she was making it hard to think. Muddling his mind in thoughts and feelings that were going to make horseback riding, or just walking even, difficult.
Kathania smiled as he approached on his knees.
"Just remain as you are, knelt before me," she informed him, lifting up her brush delicately with a wave of her hand, then touched one side of the silver to his left shoulder, then to his right as she recited, "I, Lady Katahnia Harmond, declare that you, Cauwyn, will rise from your knees after this present moment in time before me, dubbed an official knight as it has been rewarded to you by your bravery without the call of duty, but have taken it upon your own right to consequence, and through it, I ask you to pledge your allegiance to me, and solely to me as I raise my royal, silver brush before you to claim you as a knight under honor and the guidance of my throne."
Lifting up her brush she stared at him, eyes dazzling at the sight ad she pointed the brush towards his face.
"Do you, Cauwyn, so accept this proposition? This entitlement of honor and obligations to the woman before you? If so, solely answer, 'I will' and raise before her and bow once in acceptance of the title I so willingly and adoringly bestow upon the new hero of the fallen duchy of Harmond."
The horse made a sputter between it's nose. Katahnia shot him a look, eyes still dancing before she returned her glowing gaze back to Cauwyn, her own body swelling with pride at the moment- even if it was just pretend, she felt the knighting with her silver brush real all the same.
And it was such a proposition her words brought..
to think this man before her.. a protector of the final blood line to her family...
It sent a thrill through her heart as she admired his handsome face.
OOC: What? Sir Cauwyn? Shit yeah! Gettin' classy up in here!
IC:
"Never knelt for a woman before," Cauwyn muttered under his breath as he looked up at her, "not unless I.." Cauwyn started to mention more but stopped himself with a very bright grin. Luckily Katahnia started talking and he hoped, prayed even, she hadn't heard what he was saying or figured out what he was thinking.
All of that went away however during her speech. He knelt enthralled by the calm, regal confidence of her words. The spirit and the fire and the tranquility of assuredness all wrapped up into one. He had to swallow back a lump in his throat. Even though it was all pretend, even though her duchy was destroyed, and even though he had already said he'd help her, right then and there seemed to be the most important moment of his life.
Without thinking or questioning Cauwyn blurted out, "I swear! I mean, I will!" And then, realizing he was supposed to stand and bow quickly scrambled to his feet. He bowed as deeply as he could at the waist. It felt awkward, he had never bowed like this to anyone before, but it also felt right. At the same time Cauwyn had balled his right hand into a fist which he placed over his heart. It was the way salutes were given in the Crows. A fist to the heart was more than a greeting like in a real army, it was an oath. That it would be done, pledged with the heart and thus the life of the bearer as payment.
Katahnia stared up at him proudly.
"There, Sir Cauwyn, you stand now before me as a royal knight! The one and only of your kind in the remains of this land once called Harmond." She smiled sweetly, admiring him and leaned her brush forward, it lightly kissing the top of his head.
"Now you must bow before me for your royal brushing!" she cried, face exploding into the widest of grins as her eyes danced at the prospect.
She pointed the brush down towards the ground, but it was kind of pointing at his crotch.
"Now, if you please.." she said, waiting for him anxiously with a giddier grin. "The brushing will commence when you are read, Sir."
Cauwyns eyes widened with shock! It seemed his first royal duty was to be her plaything for that infernal brush once more! He raised his head somewhat to see if she was serious. What he saw did not bode well and he spoke without thinking. Both of his hands moving to cover his crotch, "That brush ain't goin' no where near...!"
His voice trailed off as the pieces came together in his mind. The indignation seemed to sputter away in the burning of his cheeks. He lowered himself back down, one knee then the other, with a rather flat look on his face. He was a damn warrior! He had been the commander of a mercenary company! He was vicious and fierce on the battlefield! He had killed his first man before most even kiss their first girl! And now, he had been knighted! Only to find himself kneeling before a silver brush wielding mage of a duchess, who planned on doing gods knows what with him and her brush!
And then, like most young men his age, as he looked up at her in all her beauty his brain began to wander into just what she could do with him. And the flat look he had was replaced with a smile and a dreamy look in his eyes.
Brush.
Brush. Brush.
If he had been daydreaming, which it seemed he most certainly was, the rough teeth of the brush might certainly get to him as she began to pull the thing through his unruly hair.
When she realized how much of a chore it would be, this being realized several grunts and huffs later, she moved a hand to delicately place upon his hand, and went about- with as much grace and care as she could, to work out the knots in his hair.
"My, this should have been done a lot sooner," she said, her tone softer than a scold, more matter of factly as she went about- but did it with as much care as she could, gentle fingers moving throughout, brush moving through- working out each knot after knot.
Though, despite how it might have seemed like he was being, more or less, taken down a notch on pride, his particular kneeling stance had him very close to the lady-
a head near her chest, soft stomach near by...
soft scents, warm hands, soft skin and tattered skirts, ruined dress..
the scent of pine....
And she was making such noises, soft and grunting, working through breaths- only able to sate one knot at a time.
OOC: Poor poor tortured Cauwyn...
IC:
Katahnia was certainly right about the daydreaming. Some very pleasant things were only seconds from unfolding between the knight and his lady when the first knot was struck. His fantasy shattered, Cauwyn's pleased smile and dreamy eyes disappeared in a flash to return to the stony faced look of before. His only expression being a wince every so often and his only sound a grunt.
While the brushing continued, it took a few moments before the soft sounds of her grunts caught his ears in a much more pleasant way. It had reawakened something destroyed only a few minutes earlier by that devils brush of hers. Everything before him seemed to start falling into place once more. And despite the very persistent tugging going on in his hair, Cauwyn could feel his excitement growing.
It all played together well. Her soft grunts heady with effort, though maybe a different kind. The gentle shake of a body so close to his and at such eye level for every rough tangle she had to work through. The cling of her still damp dress, tattered and torn as it was, to her body in such away that even Cauwyn was starting to think it unladylike. Though he was sure to be having a much different reaction to that thought than she would.
His hands rose up along her sides and he almost grabbed hold of her waist, stopping himself at the last second as he forced himself to remember where he was. Who she was. His hands closed into angry fists, denied the purchase they seek, and he winced again but for an entirely different kind of pain than the sharp one coming from his head. Cauwyn forced his eyes open, intent on at least watching what was before him, and found himself doing the best he could despite the pain to wish more knots into his hair.
OOC: *Snickers* She's totally giving him a tent in his pants 8D
Oh to think how humorous it is that a simple task as brushing hair has become perverted!
IC: She noted his fuss, but was innocently unaware what he was doing, only simply laughing when he resigned himself back to his position.
"I'm sorry this is taking so long,"s he said after a time, making another gentle grunt as she worked out another knot. "But when WAS the last time you've brushed your hair?" she had to ask, smiling sweetly at the idea. Really now- this could have been avoided had he simply brushed it all at once.
But only finding another knot or two, she gave a suddenly cry of elation, drawing her hands back as she held onto her brush in admiration at his hair.
"There! The knots are all gone!"
but then when her eyes fell upon the prize, she suddenly snorted out a laugh, hands going over her lips as she began to convulse laughter over taking her at the SIGHT of his hair.
Where he had seemed handsome and rough before, now he had a poofy pile of staticy hair about his head.
And when she tried to look at him again, she was seized with laughter, unable to breath as sh held onto her gut, turning away from him and lightly hitting her knee, as if that might break her from her laughing spell...
but she shook her head, took a few more steps away from him before collapsing against his side as she laughed, hands to his shoulders.
"Oh, my god," her shoulder shook, more laughter consuming her. "I'm so sorry, Cauwyn. Your hair it.." she snorted out another laugh, and could not finish her sentence. SHe just COULD NOT stop laughing and OH THE GODS!
It hurt!
She could not breath!
but OH!
HIS HAIR!
HIS HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIR!!!!
"Well, I ain't never brushed it... 'cept maybe with m' hands..." Cauwyn had started to explain his lack of hair grooming when he noticed the peculiar look she was giving him. And then the laughing started. When she started apologizing he reached up with a genuine look of fear. Had she pulled out all of his hair with that evil tool of witchery she kept? No, it was still there.. Just, kinda poofy. And it crackled, with what he could only imagine to be magic, "Wh... what? I don't, what did you do?"
He was confused now and her unbridled laughter wasn't helping. In fact, it only seemed to be making it worse. What in the nine hells was so funny? He didn't think he had ever seen her laugh like that. In fact, he was pretty sure no noble woman had ever laughed that hard. It would be cute, sorta, were he not totally confused about what she had done.
"What did ya do?" He ran his hands through his hair, feeling the static electricity crackle around his fingers. There was no way magic should be working on him! It never had before! "What? What trickery is this? I've never had magic work on me before! How?" He was shocked, and still confused. And when she fell on him his anger just sort of faded away.
The way she clung to him made him instinctively wrap one arm around her waist, that way at least she wouldn't fall over. He could feel her tears of laughter running down his arm. He leaned in close, speaking above her head, "I don't know what ya did or why it's so funny.. But I can promise ya, I'm gonna get ya back.." He whispered with a grin, very serious but not in the least bit mad.
It wouldn't have been so bad had the damn horse not snorted and made a baying sound. Cauwyn took that as horse laughter and shot a glare over the top of Katahnia's head at his newest nemesis.
It took a while for Katahnia to compose herself. Her fits of laughter slowly settled as she held onto him when he held onto her, supporting her so she didnt' completely collapse. It took a few more seconds for her to wipe at the tears in her eyes before she lifted her own face to him, eyes still sparkling with mirth and sweetness.
"I swear I didn't use magic, I just..." she giggled a bit again, flashing a toothy grin. "I would have thought I'd like you better without the knots."s he said, then moved a hand forward, gently brushing a few loose, soft pieces of his brown hair from his eyes as she smiled, dimples cutting into her cheeks. "I shouldn't laugh. You still look very handsome."S he said, trying to remain composed, but her body still shook a little as she sucked in her lower lip to try to repress her growing urge to giggle once again.
Cauwyn only smiled with a cold, calculating look to himself. He had no way to know what she had done to him. He couldn't look in the reflection of the water, or one of her fancy mirrors. He only knew that, at the sight of him, Katahnia was driven to fits of giggles. Though the sound, she way she moved which each giggle, and the expansiveness of her beauty when pleased may have more than made up for whatever dark magic she had worked against him, Cauwyn knew that he had to repay this. He wasn't sure yet just how, but it must be repaid. If only to stop the smug look of the horse!
"Yuck it up, princess." Cauwyn shot her a mock scowl, softened even more but a small grin on his lips, "but be warned! I will, an' I don't know when, but I will get you back! For whatever ya have done!"
The thread sent her into another small fit of laughs. After she composed herself, she shook her head and smiled.
"Why I think that would be a lovely idea. You can brush my hair tomorrow morning then." she told him, smiling wide and smug, even with a bit of a playful leer added to her eyes. It was just too fun to tease him. And really, the more she looked him- perhaps he did look a bit more dashing and tamed now-
but in all honesty, she liked the wild look.
He was rather attractive that way.
OOC: Don't judge me, I just woke up..
IC:
"Maybe I will brush your hair!" Cauwyn quipped back when he realized his arm was still firmly around her waist. Turning then he moved to take her waist in both of his hands and in one motion, with a small crackling from both knees, he stood them both up onto their feet.
Cauwyn looked down at her, ready to make another threat, when he realized just how close she was. And how good it felt not just to hold her, but to hold her against him. He remembered earlier, the way he had felt then, and in a small panic released her with a step back. He flashed a quick, sheepish smile and struggled for something to say.
"Uh, we should, ya know.." He rolled one shoulder, casually, "probably hit the road. It's a long way you said to your families, yeah?" He looked over at the rising sun, then back at their stuff, that stupid mocking horse, and then back at her, "We should be off. Plus, maybe the next town'll have a seamstress an' you can get your dress repaired.."
Kathania blushed and looked down at her tattered dress, then looked back up at him.
"Well,"s e said, releasing a huffed breath. "I suppose it does look a bit tattered." She forced a smile then glanced over at their pine haven, smiling at it and the memories it brought to the surface.
"I suppose we shall have to gather our supplies then. "she nodded then turned to him, tilting her head to one side and asked, "And would it be alright if I borrowed your traveling cloak?" She tucked in her lower lip, cheeks dimpling. "I feel it might be more modest and comfortable for travel if I wore it over top of my dress." Then she studied him a moment with a frown. "But even if we do look for a dress, how will we be able to afford such a thing?"
Naturally, her mind went to how expensive HER dresses were, not the actual price of a commoner's.
OOC: Sorry it's short, I too, just woke up 8D
"Of course ya can wear my cloak..." Cauwyn said with a small grin. Though he had no issues with how she looked in the tattered dress, rather appealing he thought, Cauwyn knew that as a lady she probably took exception. Not to mention that she was now his lady, and knights were supposed to do that sort of thing right?
He went about collecting up his things, wrapping up his clothes and armor in his bedroll and tying it tight. Then he placed them in the concave of his shield, securing it with his binding straps. He gathered it up along with his spear and headed to the horse, securing the shield to the saddle. Her question made him pause for a moment in thought before he looked back at her.
"Well, I don't rightly know really." He pursed his lips in consideration, "Never had t' buy a dress before, yeah? But, I can't imagine they're too expensive. Though I don't think dresses are really the style for most common folk. If nothin' else," Cauwyn shrugged, "I'm sure there's bound t' be some kinda work I could do to earn a bit of quick coin.."
Kathania nodded her head.
"I'll do whatever it takes," She afforded him a soft smile. "After all, I don't have much of a choice. There's not much money to be had when you're kingdom is in ruins. So I can only try my best. Though I wager I might need some more advice from my knight." Her smile grew a little wider as she approached his side.
"And if I'm lucky, perhaps my extended family won't entirely disinherit me, though I suppose the bigger problem lies in how long I've been imprisoned in that crystal." she frowned. "I suppose you wouldn't have the slightest clue, would you?"
OOC: Sorry for the short post, kinda busy @_@
"When ya think about it, tryin' yer best is all ya can really ever do.." Cauwyn said with a small shrug and a smile as he produced his cloak, stepping back as she stepped up beside him and moving behind her to put it around her shoulders. He gave her a very gentle smack on the sides of her shoulders with his hands and then stepped back around to stand next to her.
"Nah, princess, sorry.." He shook his head with a wry look, "I mean, even if'n I knew when ya went into that crystal thing, I couldn't really tell ya.. Ain't never seen one of them calendar things. An even if someone showed it t' me, I can't read so it wouldn't do no good.." He shrugged his shoulders casually. He, like so many, was illiterate. Growing up Bryn could read and had always told him teaching him to would just be more trouble than it was worth, and Cauwyn never knowing any better agreed. When he took over the Carrion Crows, there was a man who could read over them for him.
Katahnia smiled warmly, hugging the cloak tightly against her body as she turned to glance at him over her shoulder. "You don't have to apologize. I was just curious." She slowly turned to look at him as he stood next to her, smile growing wider. "But I suppose, as you said, we've got quite a ways before us." A cold wind slipped between them, tossing her hair, and his, and seeing his rustle about made her smile, sparkles forming in her eye as she held a hand over her lips while her eyes danced with laughter, but none came out from her mouth.
"Come, let's get on that open road."s he said, moving a hand forward and gently smoothing some of his hair back before she turned away from him and over to the horse.
Once they were settled into the saddle, the two made their way off into the forest. Katahnia knew some direction, considering she had found that landmark from before, and so the two had found a road within the hour and she smiled excitedly for being able to be somewhat useful in their predicament.
"Well, this is the south road. It should curve around and eventually split at a trail that will go west. That's the road we'd travel on, then we'll go North and my Uncle's manor should be there. If he's alive, hopefully he can be of some assistance, if not.."s he pressed her lips together, voice trailing off in thought as her eyes went distant. The horse moved about beneath her, settling to a halt. She hadn't meant to pause the beast but smile and patted his hair before turning back towards Cauwyn. "Shall we see if there's a town up ahead? Or keep traveling and find a new place for camp?"
Cauwyn enjoyed their little jaunt in the saddle. The slow rhythmic sway for the horse wasn't nearly as bad as before, some of which he attributed to the oversized cloak she wore. It made her less of a distraction and allowed him to ride in relative comfort.
"Ahh, definitely need t' find a town.." Cauwyn said with a grin, raising his arm and making a bit of a show of sniffing himself. He had been hard traveling before he had even reached the castle. Sweat and dust and grime clung to him. He ran a hand back through his hair, which was much smoother now though thanks to the wind and his continuous pushing it out of his eyes had made placed it back to it's usual mess, "I need a bath. And a drink! Plus, I'd hate for us t' find your uncle an' then ya not get t' enjoy a good night drinkin' in a tavern or inn.."
OOC: Sorry it's short, gotta get to bed! Got a long drive tomorrow!
"Well, do towns offer baths?" She inquired, smiling as she peered back at him from over her shoulder. "I must apologize for my ignorance. I'm not sure how the common folk bathe." Then her eyes danced over the idea of finding a tavern and the idea of having a drink.
"Don't fret too much. We've still got a long ways to go. Perhaps we'll find a tavern at the nearest town?" she kicked the horse to get him moving again, and the horse only protested slightly as they continued down the road, a small town pulling into view. Katahnia smiled at the sight.
"So what ought we to do in town?"s he inquired, her smile growing ever larger, even a little bit smug as she looked at him.
"Shall we try a tavern this evening? Or perhaps a place to bath?"
"Most of the time us common folk just wash up in lakes or streams.." Cauwyn said teasingly from behind her. The slow gentle sway brought on by the horses trot was more relaxing than Cauwyn had realized before. Though maybe it was because he had Katahnia practically in his lap in the saddle, "but usually if'n a town is big enough t' have an inn, then they'll have baths. Hot baths too.." He took in a deep breath and let out a pleasurable sigh.
Cauwyn smile grew as hers did, the smugness of it only making him chuckle, "Well now princess, why limit ourselves t' only one thing? I say we find ourselves an' inn, if they got one, an' see about a room an'a bath. Then, we find ourselves a good little tavern an' get a good drunk. Then," Cauwyn gestured with his spear to ad emphasis, "we go back t' the inn an take our baths.. That way we get th' best of both worlds, yeah?"
Katahnia laughed at the idea, the noise was like music in the air.
"You have quite an adorable way to seek out fun, you know that?" she told him, wrinkling her nose then turning her attention back towards the road before them. She shook her head. "One step at a time. Let's see what we can afford." She paused to frown. "I had done some looting of those men.." she lowered her head, a bit shamefully before she turned shyly back towards Cauwyn, a blush ripe on her dimpled cheeks.
She pressed her lips together as she smiled. "Perhaps it'll be enough coin for a bath and a meal? An a bed might be nice.." She let her eyes drift away thoughtfully.
"You did." Cauwyn agreed with a nod and a proud smile, though it changed to a look of concern when she turned away. She hadn't grown up like he had, and so he could understand she might feel bad, but she had good instincts. With the way they were riding, it was easier for Cauwyn to put a comforting hand on Katahnia's hip than it was for her shoulder, "An' don't for one moment feel bad 'bout that neither. If'n you were lucky those men woulda killed ya. Or sold ya to slavery, an I'm sure ya know what woulda happened first. Ya don't owe them nothin', but they owe ya everything.. Ya got good instincts princess, ya were smart t' take what ya could from them.."
He let his hand fall away from her hip with some reluctance. Event through the bulk of his heavy cloak, it had felt good to hold her like that. He also smiled at the idea of beds, letting the seriousness pass. Though she couldn't see the smile, or the way it lit his eyes, she would certainly hear it in his voice, "Ah yes, beds! Lovely an' warm an' hopefully not covered in louse! Now, I gotta bit a coin left, just some. An' if we can fence some of that stuff ya grabbed, we may be able t' afford a little bit of splurgin'. We're also gonna need some supplies though, an maybe a new sword for you?"
He frowned, rubbing at the stubble bristling on his jaw, "Ya know, bit of a pity really. I knew a blacksmith in Adela, she was damn good." A small haunted look passed over him briefly, but he hid it away behind a grin, "An' ya wanna know the best part? She was blind!"
The guilt still remained, knotted into her stomach, but she still smiled.
"Yes, I suppose you're right." Then at the mention of a new sword, her smile grew. "Yes, perhaps a sword more light?"
And then at the mention of the blacksmith, her eyes dazzled. "Oh, perhaps someday we could visit!" and she offered him the sweetest smile. "It would be nice, if someday I had the money, she could fashion me a more respectable blade."
OOC: *snickers*
"And she could, I'm sure.." Cauwyn nodded, "She charged a fair price for her work, an' good work it is. She's the one who fixed m' shield up an' built me this spear.." He held it up as though she wouldn't have seen it otherwise, "Even had it 'chanted. Keeps it from goin' dull.."
As he settled back in the saddle, pressing softly against her. Well, pressing more softly against his cloak she was wrapped in seemed to be more appropriate, "An' we'll definitely be lookin' at gettin' ya somethin' lighter. Ya keep swingin' that one ya got around the way ya do, an' your likely t' hurt yourself.." Cauwyn leaned forward so she could see his sarcastic smirk, "Or develop big ol' man muscles all over your self.. An' then what kinda princess would ya be?"
Katahnia blushed when she realized how close he was so that she could see his smirk.
But then she laughed, a light hearted laugh, soft and divine.
"Then I guess I would be the strongest Princess in all of the world!" she shouted, arms going freely towards the sky, well, not the one holding the reigns, it only went up to a certain point, as she expressed herself playfully, exclaiming her silly nonsense towards the trees.
She made a muscle. "I'm sure you would be quite jealous of me then." she said, sticking out her tongue at him. "And what makes you think I couldn't handle that sword anyways?" she inquired, raising her brow at him as she remained, turned towards him on the horse, faces still only a few inches apart. "I seemed to be doing pretty good last night at our sword play." Her eyes danced at the memory.
"Oh yeah, strongest princess ever?" Cauwyn laughed with her exclamation. She was certainly fun, and when she wasn't being stubborn and lady like, she was quite funny as well. As he settled in behind her once more, he let himself just relax and smile. He was a lucky man, he knew, in more ways than one. How many men get to be chauffeured around by a young, beautiful woman? Let alone a duchess! Granted, her duchy was in ruins, but it still counted!
He smiled, shaking his head as he cleared away his thoughts and returned to the conversation at hand, "Trust me princess, take it from a fella who's been swingin' a sword a while. Ya were right, ya did do a great job last night. Better than I woulda thought, but playin' at swingin' a sword and swingin' it t' kill are different. An' much more tiring! Every time it bounces off another blade, or a shield or some knights damn metal armor.. It sends up some pain. An the heavier the sword, the worse it hurts..."
Katahnia pressed her lips together, trying to suppress her growing smile, but then it slowly faded at his reasoning as she turned away, nodding and keeping her green eyes focused on the road.
"Yes.. I wouldn't know what it's like to fight that way," she added, growing silent. The town was almost in sight, and after finding herself more solemn at the reflection of that sort of battle, the view of the town made her feel a bit more light.
"I am sorry people have to grow up in such a world as this. All the fighting... the killing.." she pressed her lips together again, but still frowned. "It's a shame we can't all live in peace."
As the muddy road turned into stone, the horses hooves clicked against it as her eyes began to take in the town, a smile stretching across her lips. It was late in the day by now, early evening, and the place was cast in an red glow. The stars had just begun to come out, sparkling over head and some candles already set in the windows. She spotted a sign for a tavern and pointed over to it.
"Look, Cauwyn. It's an Inn." She leaned forward on the saddle to read it, squinting her eyes and pursing her lips, "The Lady's Chest."
She blinked. "An interesting choice of name."
OOC: DOn't ask XD
Though he couldn't see her face, Cauwyn could hear the frown in her voice. He sighed, somewhat deflated, and reached forward to put a comforting hand on her waist once again, "Don't be sorry, princess.." Cauwyn offered her a smile. It carried in calm, gentle and accepting words, "It's just how th' world is. I'm tired of killin', it's why I'm here, but m' experiences have made me who I am. Better or worse, an' I can accept that much at least. Besides, if'n I didn't have that life who knows if I ever woulda found ya?"
Cauwyn kept a weary eye as they traveled into the town. People were preparing for the evening, and that also meant that thieves and the like would soon be out and about. He tightened his hand around the haft of his spear, but said nothing to Katahnia about the dangers. Let her enjoy her first visit to a town as a commoner.
When she read the name of the tavern, Cauwyn couldn't help but snicker like a boy. He fougt to suppress it and eventually got it under control. Still grinning he looked up at the sign. While he couldn't read the words, he saw the picture clear enough. A pair of breasts in a low-cut peasants blouse. Below them the carved symbol of a bed, a mug of beer, and a tub. He began grinning from ear to ear.
"It's a great choice for a name!" Cauwyn considered out loud, leaning forward to speak into her ear, "Better than the mans spear, yeah? Or, maybe not if'n you're a woman I suppose.." He shrugged it off, still grinning, "Don't matter none though! They got everything we need under one roof! Kia's tits we lucked out!"
Without waiting for the horse to stop Cauwyn kicked his leg back and over, sliding to the ground with a quiet grunt. He had to catch himself with his spear, still a bit sore and weak, but straitened up easily and then took hold of the horses halter, leading it toward the place. The horse didn't seem too pleased, snorting at him, but Cauwyn didn't care. He led the horse toward the tavern inn on foot.
"M'lady, I'm sure this place won't be what you're expectin'.." He paused a second, "or maybe it will. In either case, stay close yeah? Places like this can get a bit rough sometimes.."
Katahnia might have been offended had she not been trying to suppress a chortle at the name. But at his mention of a man's spear, she had to gasp, cheeks going red at the idea.
"Cuawyn!" Now she couldn't ignore the lecturing tone in her voice as she clicked her tongue. But as he helped guide her forward, she pointed out a place to tether the horse before she slipped off the saddle and peered up at him.
"I"m sure I'll be just fine," she informed him, but smiled at the idea he still wanted to protect her. "I'm sure there is nothing to-"
"HAROLD!" a woman shrieked, a clay mug shattering against the door as she opened it.
Katahnia only blinked, flinching back before pushing the door open again to watch an old woman, wrinkled iwth age wearing a stained dress and wild grey and brown hair chase after another man, throwing another clay mug. "STOP EATIN' THE CHICKEN STEW YOU GOD DAMN THIEF AND TURN OVER THE BEDS! FLUFF THE STRAW OR I'M PUTTING YOU OUT TO SLEEP IN THE BARN WITH THE MICE!"
It was only then the woman noticed the pair standing at the door and her cheeks swelled into a 'pretty' smile, exposing the last of her teeth poking out from her gums. She smacked her tongue about as she eyed up the pair, a giggle to her gut as her old brown eyes took in Cauwyn.
"Come in, young lovers. Come in. The soup is fresh, the beds will be made, and the bath water will be cleaned within he hour if you so desire. Come in, come sit."s he gestured towards an empty table in the back. "I'll have Miranda look after you lot." Then she turned her hawk like gaze and steeled it on Harold. "GET TO THOSE BEDS!" she shouted, shaking a fist and the boy was off. Sighing, she muttered a few things in jibberish and walked away.
Katahnia pressed herself a little closer towards Cauwyn at the invitation, he rlips opening as if to protest the idea the pair were lovers as her cheeks flushed pink. She was just too embarrassed by the environment to really say anything at all!
OOC: Loved it! Almost choked on some water!
IC:
The sudden commotion took Cauwyn by surprise as well, but it faded quickly into a broad and somewhat childish grin as he watched the antics unfold. Such displays of people in their prime, of the hilarity of life, were the theater for the poor. Cauwyn rested his left hand lazily on the pommel of his sword while with the right he held open the door for Katahnia.
"Well madam, we thank ya for that!" Cauwyn said in a bolstering voice. His cheeks reddened as well, but from the barely contained laughter at the look on Katahnia's face. He couldn't help himself and his hand drifted from the door down to the small of her back, guiding her forward and into the inn, "Been a long, hard ride if'n ya catch what I'm throwin'. A bit of stew, some good drink and a bath I think'll be most certainly in order! Idn't that right, my princess?" He couldn't help himself. A smug smirk accompanying sparkling hazel eyes teeming with glee and barely restrained mirth. His lips were puckering into an over emphasized kissy-face to top off the act, but it was interrupted by a rather unladylike grunt.
Miranda was a looker, as far as common folk went. She looked to have just reached marriageable age. She had a tall slender build, wide child birthing hips, ample breasts covered in a way that could only barely be considered modest. He brown hair looked frazzled, but she held it back respectfully in a pair of braids that hung over her shoulders. She eyed the two with smoky green eyes for a moment before forcing a smile onto her plump, if weathered, lips, "Right this way then?" The young Miranda gestured toward a table in the corner near the hearth.
Cauwyn never stopped smiling. This place was perfect for Katahnia's first tavern visit. He bared his teeth his smile was so broad and shot her a quick wink before giving her yet another gentle nudge to follow the woman along.
Katahnia was almost too terrified to move, and at Cauwyn's face, she took a step back, trying to hide her uneasy smile, but laughter still escaped.
"Cauwyn!" Really now! What got into the man? It was almost as if he was antagonizing this atmosphere into more hysterics than it already was! She smiled and shook her head at him, then stared over at Miranda, nodded to her and followed to a small square table towards the back with crates as seats.
"So, the stew for ya then?" the young girl asked while chewing on something between her teeth. "The chicken stew is piping hot. We also can offer sweet bread." She said, leaning forward with enough press to her chest towards Cauwyn to give him a look as she gave a light fuss to her braids.
Katahnia only blinked, but nodded her head.
"That sounds lovely." and she turned to Cauwyn, not noticing Miranda giving her a face.
"I suppose it 'is' lovely," the woman griped, smirking though as she turned her focus back to Cauwyn. "Any sweet buns for ya, handsome one?" she asked, eyes leering him with a little bit of play.
His grin couldn't be helped! As uncomfortable as Katahnia was, it was only driving him to delve deeper into the fantasy. As they settled in at the table, Cauwyn certainly noticed the show the girl put on. It was fun and games until he caught sight of the look she gave Katahnia. While he would enjoy a catfight as much as any other man, especially between these two and over him! Cauwyn knew that would not be the outcome were he to continue..
"Ah, no," He held up a hand and shook his head, "Just the stew for me.. But, be a love an' bring out a slice her, yeah?" The woman didn't seemed too pleased, but she grunted and forced her smile before dipping her head and turning to fetch their meals.
"An' I don't suppose ya have any mead, yeah?" Cauwyn called after her, to which the young girl gave a look back over her shoulder. It was a delightful view, Cauwyn had to admit, but he didn't much care for the smirk it brought to the girls face.
"Aye, we do.. And ale, and dark beer and of course some wine.." She rattled off the list while still maintaining a less than moderate pose. Cauwyns smile stayed firm, but it had left his eyes, something the girl obviously didn't notice.
"Two meads, wench.." His words were still warm, but had a bit of an edge to them that the girl didn't miss. Her cheeks flushed she righted herself and moved off to fetch their things.
Cauwyn looked back at Katahnia, now his turn to have a bit of red in his cheeks. He flashed her a genuine, if not sheepish, smile, "An' this is yer first introduction t' common folk life. Ya gotta be in charge, princess.." His words were low enough that only the two of them could hear, "Or they'll walk over ya.." He cleared his throat, looking around and then leaning closer still, "An' sorry if'n I, ya know, embarrassed ya yeah? I was just havin' some fun.. Not every day I get t' be lover to a duchess, yeah?"
Katahnia felt more than embarrassed in the moment. The way this Miranda girl was throwing herself about was positively lewd! IF she didn't know better, she'd suspect herself becoming jealous: there was that icy chill of jealousy in her gut, after all, and she found herself hardly comforted when Cauwyn spoke, her gaze avoiding his as she appeared somewhat defeated at the prospect, cheeks still rosey.
"This place is definitely interesting," she replied lamely. But then at his comment about being her lover, she gave a start. "Cauwyn!"She gave him a stern look, her eyes searching around the place, fearful as if someone might have heard. Then she looked back to him. "Are all establishments like this?"
To think! People might have to sleep here with all of the noise!
It was then a moan escaped from the jump of the floor boards over head. Katahnia gav ea start, looking up then flinching away as dust crept through the buckle of boards as another cry came out again, and again.. and again.. and again...
It was only after a time, even Katahnia realized what was going on up above as her face went long and white as she turned away, just in time for Miranda to return.
"Two mugs of mead,"s he said, breasts pressed together as she bent over, placing them before the pair as she gave Cauwyn a wink. "And a bit o' sweat bread. Fresh from our oven, lad." She set the plate between them then wiped her hands on her skirts, then turned her attention up towards the floor boards up above as the moans and scraping of the bed post could be heard. She only grinned, stepping out of the way from the dust that crumbled down on the pair and gave Katahnia a wicked glance when she noticed how sickly the lady looked.
These two appeared an interesting pair. She turned her focus back to Cauwyn.
"If'n ya lucky, we can give you that room next. And we's can have a fun round, ya?" she told him with a wink and smirk.
Katahnia went even more white, pressing her back stiffly to the wall, and wiping at another round of dirt that sooted her shoulder before she moved out of it's way with lame effort, and also in her actions, she appeared to disappear behind Miranda's encomposing form as the lass's eyes blazed playfully down at Cauwyn. "Last man I had up there we made the bed bread." She informed him, much more lowly in her voice. "THink on it." She told him, then slipped away.
Well now he did feel bad. It was clear that Katahnia was more than just a little uncomfortable. He had thought it would be funny, that they could laugh it off together, but it seemed he had misjudged just how prudish the lady could be. That didn't stop him, however, from smirking when the moaning started and the floor began creaking. When he noticed how pale Katahnia was though, the smirk faded to a look of worry. Was she about to faint? Cauwyn was about to lean in to ask when Miranda returned.
Cauwyn returned Mirandas lewd stares with a wolfish grin. Much like the one he had given Katahnia when they first 'fell' into each others company. The difference though was that there had been something in his eyes then, but with Miranda there was nothing behind the smile. Even still, he exhaled a heavy breath when the girl left. He was used to tavern wenches and their ploy for coin and company, but this girl laid it on thicker than most. And, honestly, had Katahnia not been there Cauwyn would probably already be up in the room waiting.
She was there however and his attention returned to her, along with the worried look on his face. He slid a mug in front of her, "M'lady," Cauwyn started in proper common once more, "this place is very much what one should expect. There may be dancing and singing, but these people have no fancy," His hand moved as he spoke, covering her mug as more dust fell from above and then disappearing again without missing a beat, "parties or balls. No courts. For them, for us, you just have to live your life for whatever pleasure you can get when you can get it.."
He leaned back and picked up his own mug, raising it in toast before Katahnia. His words returning to the more poor, chopped version of the common tongue, "An' we should start our night off with a toast, yeah? T' our health an' good company!"
Another round of moans came from upstairs, but as Cauwyn tried to comfort her, she afforded him a hesitant grin. She liked the idea of dancing, and the noise of a fiddle in the corner caught her eye. SHe raised her mug gently, smiling a bit more broadly. "To interesting times."s he stated, then looked up hwen the noises grew more louder again. She could hear the woman squeak, then rush across the room- the man following suit before more noises could be heard and the stamping of feet.
This time color returned to her face in red before she turned to Cauwyn, gently brushing her hair behind her ear.
"And to hoping our drinks do not get covered in dust."S he clanked her clay mug to his and raised the mead to her lips, finding the flavor a bit crude for her liking, but interesting all the same. She was used to refined wine, and had gotten only tipsy a few times, but this mead was rather potent, and the burn, much more fierce.
She took another sip and looked to Cauwyn and asked a bit more seriously. "Do often times these places offer drink and bed and breeding?" She had to frown, it seemed so uncivilized. "Though I do like the idea of dancing."s he turned around, smiling a bit as she studied an older lady taking to the floor with an older gent- a sweet, older couple who seemed happy on their feet. She sighed at the sight, raising the mead to her lips and let the liquid warm her belly.
"The way they dance is rather unique,"s he took to studying it, wondering if her feet could move so fast as the fiddle picked up in tempo to the tune.
Cauwyn let out a good natured laugh at her toast, glad to see her coming out of her shell. He took a long pull from the mead, frowning slightly at the flavor. It was strong enough, for sure, but it lacked that extra something that the mead from his Hyoite had. That subtle mix of spices that really brought out the flavor, and hid the burn. Not to mention when they drank it, it was usually warmed over a fire first. Still, it was passable enough and he took another gulp as he watched Katahnia study the surroundings.
"Well, yeah.." Cauwyn offered a shrug at her question about the establishment and those like it, "I mean, not always but at most ya can find some woman t' fit your needs. Part of the joy of havin' a bed is not bein' in it alone, yeah? Not all of them ply trade for coin either," He shrugged again, "Some women just enjoy it, yeah? Like a man.." While prudish he was not, he had to admit he felt a little awkward discussing it with Katahnia. Something about her, mostly everything she did or said when it came to the subject, told him she had never been with a man before. Typically it was an alluring trait, a delicacy, though Cauwyn tended to lean more towards women with experience.
He watched her eye the dancers on the floor. The rhythm of the song along with the movements of their feet. This was not the aloof dances of nobility. Slow and methodical and all together boring, as far as Cauwyn imagined it as he had never actually been to one. This was faster paced with feet moving quickly and couples locking arm in arm as they twirled about.
He grinned and then snapped his head toward her, a twinkle in his hazel eyes, "Ya never danced before, like that, have ya? Wanna learn?" He took another quick swig of his drink and then held out his hand to her, nodding toward the dance floor with his head, "Come on, come on then!"
Katahnia would never shy away from a dance, though her smile was bashful indeed as she accepted his offer and hand and stood.
"Now is as any good of time as any, eh?"s he quirked a blonde brown at him, smiling as they moved towards a place with more room. She could feel the music flowing in her veins, the beat pounding against the floor as the fiddled hummed and jaunted it's tune. Her eyes went down to the floor, watching as the other couples danced about and studied their motions then looked back to Cauwyn, brushing her hair from her face. "So how ought we to start?" she inquired, a smile stretching wide across her face, eyes dancing at the prospect to just jump right in.
Cauwyn felt his heart nearly leap into his throat when she accepted his offer. Not that he considered her unaccustomed to dancing, but more so that she would have been too bashful to dance with a man of his station. And for that he also felt a pang of guilt, having thought that about her. Though they had many differences, he couldn't think of a time she had treated him as a simple commoner. Not since that first night in the dungeon.
"Just follow the song, yeah?" He grinned and his booted foot jumped. Then the other. He started slow at first, letting her see the rhythm of the jig before he wound his arm into hers. A few others clapped along with the song, a few banged their mugs on the table, but so far it was only them and the older couple actually dancing.
As the pace picked up, Cauwyn found himself almost at a loss for her grace and how quickly she seemed to be mastering the dance. While he had never had any formal instruction outside of spindly redheaded girl met at a tavern when he was just becoming a man, he had been dancing ever sense. Bryn had told him how his people, the elven ones, used dancing as a way to hone their warrior craft. While Cauwyn wasn't nearly as spry as the half-elf had been, or Katahnia it seemed, he laughed loudly and danced with as much rhythm as he could muster.
Twisting and turning, pressing close together and then farther apart, the jig carried them around the room. At one point they found themselves switched and Cauwyn had the pleasure of dancing with the old woman, who was just as lovely on her feet as Katahnia had been. She laughed and sang along to the bawdy tune, which only made Cauwyn laugh more. And when they switched back again the old woman even went so far as to slap him on the rump as they traded partners. His face twisted into not unpleased surprise as he looked back at the old woman and then to Katahnia with a broad grin.
The dancing had been marvelous! Oh how her heart beat and fluttered excitedly at the pace of the dance. She tried her best to keep up, laughing all the while as she spun around, twitsed and turned and eventually fell back into Cauwny's strong arms to be swept into another ditty of the dance. Though after a time, even her grace slipped some as she tripped over the awkward shoes she wore and gave a laugh, stumbling into Cauwyn as her hand caught herself, palms rested against his chest.
She breathed a laugh, keeping herself against him before looking up.
"Oh, it's been some time since I've had so much fun!" She breathed another laugh. "You dance lovely." she wrinkled her nose, most pleased. "I think I could used to this sort of dancing. Perhaps we ought to try another?" she inquired, raising a brow then looking over at the fiddle player as he played a softer, more melodic tune as the old woman pressed herself against her husband and they swayed sensually and sweet tot he beat. Katahnia brushed back her hair, it seemed to keep wanting to fall into her face before turning back to Cauwyn, blushing gently at the change in tune.
"This dance seems a little easier,"s he bashfully admitted, the idea of swaying with Cauwyn.. oh how her head spun! But still, she smiled at him and offered her hands. "Shall we?"
"Pfft, hardly.." Cauwyn shook his head with a sheepish grin, "Ya make me look like a lumberin' ogre.." His cheeks reddened as she leaned against him, sure she could feel the way his heart was racing. He was honest when he said she had outshone him. Cauwyn doubted any man in the room could have kept their eyes off of her, because Cauwyn knew that he couldn't have.
When the tune slowed and the older couple pressed in, Cauwyn half expected her to want to go sit down again. He had to brush a bit of his own hair back out of his eyes, if only so he could smile down at her. When she offered him her hand, he was speechless. At least for a moment. Without hesitation Cauwyn took it up in his. The feeling of her small, soft delicate hand in his was wonderful, but not nearly as wonderful as when his other arm wrapped around her waist pressing her against him.
The smell of her, unbathed and strait from the road, was still intoxicating. She still had the lingering scent of the pine trees on her, along with a scent of campfire smoke and a scent wholly her own that was near maddening. He bent down his head, pressing his cheek against hers as the older gentleman had done with his woman. Cauwyn had never done a slow dance before, they had never appealed to him. He liked the fast beat and heady rush of dancing from woman to woman. Or so he had thought, until now with her pressed against him. The feel of her body, the beating of her heart and the way her scent filled his nose was all almost too much and he closed his eyes, letting himself get lost in the feeling.
Her hips rocked slow and steady to the tune, hands remaining around him as she smiled, closing her eyes and just enjoyed being swept away to the steady beat. With her hips moving slow and sensual against his, she began to feel her cheeks heat, even her body, but kept quiet. Such a feeling was maddening to realize at such a time, but also, something about it was satisfying to just be cradled within his arms, feeling his muscles, the hardness of his skin, which wasn't so hard at all when touched- even it had some softness to it, despite the scars and weathered feel of it.
She released a sigh, leaning into him some as the song lulled her, enjoying their closeness.
"You dance rather nicely, Sir Cauwyn," she told him, a gently smile gracing her cheeks. He might have even felt her blush through that smile. "Though I must admit," she told him, fingers moving to the back of his head, feeling his hair, taking in his scent, his musk.. the pine.. the smoke, the mead... "I don't think I'd ever imagine myself dancing with such a man." Though when her eyes met to his, she blushed and looked bashfully away. "I.. I don't mean to say it to sound rude. It's just," she returned her gaze back to his, taking in his handsome features, even all the scars that added a certain, wild charm about him. Her green eyes softened. "A lady finds herself only in the company of lords."
Her body kept moving and she let out a delicate sigh.
"As awkward as it may sound, I'm glad I've been given this chance, despite the twist of fate to put me here."s he afforded him a gem of a smile, the leaned back in closely to him, sighing against his ear. "I could dance like this all night."S he told him softly, gently as she closed her eyes, body still swaying with grace.
The slow gentle rock of their bodies together, intertwined by the music, was like nothing Cauwyn could ever have imagined. Not since he was a child with a crush had he thought he could be this happy, but even that had not been nearly as sweet as this. As the music drifted around them Cauwyn closed his eyes, embraced the feel of her, and let himself forget everything but for that moment.
Cauwyn could feel his own face begin to heat more, enough to pull him from his daydream. The way they were pressed together, his hips to hers, there was nothing he could do to hide what he was feeling. It was awkward maybe, but she said nothing and neither would he. If this was as close as he could get to her, as close to being with her... Cauwyn was sure that, we he to be struck down tonight, he could not think of a more pleasant memory to be on his mind.
When she started to speak, he only grinned and gave a small chuckle. When she admitted to never thinking to dance with a man like himself though, it jarred him a little. She shouldn't be dancing with a man such as himself. She was too good for him, Cauwyn reminded himself. She was nobility, royalty. She was a duchess in real life, not just the princess in his little fantasy adventure. In reality, Cauwyn knew it was only a matter of time before she left him. Before she retook her rightful place on a throne, or in a court or wherever duchesses did duchess things! In the company of lords is where she belonged. Not here, in the scarred arms of a sell-sword with a conscious the size of an ant and a heart as black as the death he had caused.
And then he saw her smile. So beautiful and radiant and pure that all the thoughts he had been having melted away. It took his breath away and when she pressed herself close to his ear and whispered into it, he felt his stomach twist into a knot he didn't think could ever be undone. What a strange sensation it was, to be holding her against him afraid to let go. He could feel his heart pounding, could hear it throbbing in his ears and was sure she could hear it too. Just as he was sure she could feel his heart beating in his chest... and throbbing in other places. None of that mattered though as one single thought bloomed in his mind and he acted without thinking.
One calloused hand ran up her body as he pulled his head back from hers, turning it to face her. His hand took her chin gently between his calloused fingers and without so much as a word between them Cauwyn pressed his dry chapped lips against hers.
OOC: D'awww, he couldn't resist it anymore, could he? <3
Well, it was obvious he'd have to be the first one to make a move so bold 8D
IC:
The sway, the dance, the feel, the beat-
It all melted away in a single, natural motion as he pulled away, but then came forth, hands to her chin, lips to her lips, bodies pressing light. And for a moment, she had forgotten how to breath. Her body tensed, then loosened as it began to melt, finding herself pressing up lightly on her toes when her own lips began to press back gently against his.
Her heart was beating so fast it was fluttering into her throat, and it was only until they were well into their second round of soft, heated kisses that she gave way to a gasp, a blush consuming her cheeks as she pulled back, just mere inches from him, as her green eyes stared into his.
"Cauwyn, I-"
but she didn't know what to say. Her mind was numb to all sense of propriety, let alone reality, as she heard a single whistle come from the old man and his wife who had bee dancing gently at their side. Katahnia turned to them in a blush, burying herself against Cauwyn's shoulder as she smiled, even laughed some against a breath.
"I think we've drawn an audience."
OOC: I'm impressed he held out as long as he did!
IC:
Cauwyn was lost to the heat of their kiss. The world around him faded into nothingness, all that mattered bound up in his arms and pressed against him. When she pressed back against him, Cauwyn lost all sense of himself into this. It gave wind to the fire already burning inside of him and he pressed against her, hungry for more.
When she pulled back a soft groan escaped his still parted lips. He wanted nothing more than to be back where he had been. To be back against her. The low whistle caught his attention, as did her words, and a quick look around showed that they had indeed gotten some attention. The knowing smiles of the older couple produced a small chuckle and a knowing wink shared between the two men. The look Miranda gave them was the most surprising however. She had the dreamy-eyed smile of a young girl lost in a romantic daydream. Until she noticed Cauwyn noticing her, in which case she immediately blushed, scowled and turned to head back into the kitchen.
"Let 'em watch," Cauwyn said with a quiet boastfulness into her ear, for her alone, "We'll give 'em a hellava show.." He grinned and winked down at her. But, he also figured she wouldn't be comfortable with the idea, so he took her hand and lead her back to their table. As they settled in behind their mugs, Cauwyns face finally flushed as the boldness of what he had done sunk in. He thought about how he acted, how the crassness of his words affected her, and immediately he started to think the worst.
"Katty, look.." He didn't even realize the name he called her. His eyes fastidiously studying a knot in the table through a few errant bangs as he rubbed at the back of his neck, stumbling over his words, "I, uh... well, I'm, uh, ya know.. I'm sorry if'n I, I don't know, offended ya, yeah?"
OOC: True 8D
IC:
Cauwyn wasn't the only one a bit dishearted to see their moment subside, but her face was impeccably red, and her dimples and smile ever growing, dispite her attempts to tuck it in. Once they were seated, she kept her gaze lowered, her disposition most fair, but it was his words that brought her green eyes back to meet his hazel ones as she smiled. If she could blush more she did, and averted her gaze at his statement, brushing hair behind her ears.
She shook her head.
"No.. no, I wasn't offended,"S he sucked in her lower lip, then pressed them flat, but a smile still returned. "I've just never truly been kissed such as that."s he admitted, bashfully returning her eyes to his. Then she looked down at their table, giving off a gentle laugh. "And i can't say I'm offended." She blushed more. "I .. rather liked it." and again, she timidly peered up at him, then away, laughing inspite of herself. "I guess I must sound like a fool." Really, she felt quite out of her element here! To think- was she now being 'courted' by her knight? The idea made her feel warm all over and she had to look away again, curling finger nails to her lips.
"Ya.. Ya did?" Cauwyn sounded almost shocked to learn that she enjoyed the kiss, as he had giving it to her. He licked at his chapped lips and then, unsure of what to say, busied his mouth with his mug drinking down the rest of his mead in one long swallow. The cup it the table louder than he wanted and his hands fidgeted with the clay mug until it was settled. He looked up again, still a bit incredulous, "Truly? Ya liked it?"
A smile began to grow on those nervous lips. It ran through all the stages, first a sheepish grin, then a cocksure smirk, and finally ended on a beaming smile. Cauwyn looked pleased beyond the cat and the canary. He leaned over the table, his hands finding one of hers which he took between both of his, head twisting low to try and get a good look into those wonderful green eyes, "Ya liked it, yeah? Well, ya know princess, we can do it again, yeah? See if'n the first time was just a fluke.."
Cauwyn was leaning in to make good on the idea when Miranda showed up. She flashed them both a rather flat look before plastering on her best fake smile. Again she bent forward giving them both a good view of her ample assets. From the bar behind her a man whistled appreciatively and she looked back over her shoulder at him, as she had Cauwyn earlier, before she looked back at the two and spoke in a sweet tone, "Would you like another mead, good sir?" She cast a judgmental glance at Katahnias mug, to her and then back to Cauwyn, "Maybe some water-cut wine for your friend..?"
Katahnia wasn't sure how to make of the situation when Miranda cut in rudely. But the idea still burned about sharing another kiss. SHe drew back, touching her lips and looked down, smiling bashful at her lap.
"No, regular mead is just fine," she replied, to the surprise of Miranda who raised her brow. "And how much longer for our stew?"
Miranda let out a huff. "I can fetch it for you now."S he stole a glance to Cauwyn before she left, and Katahnia couldn't help but chuckle. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say that young lady doens't care much for me."
Cauwyn chuckled, watching the girl wander off to the back. He looked back at Katahnia, his lip curled up into a smirk, "Ah, she's just jealous. Pro'lly used t' bein' the center of attention in 'ere.." He gestured then with a flick of his jaw to the crowd at large.
More then a few men were stealing appreciative glances at Katahnia. Though she might not have felt much like royalty, she carried herself in a way that said she had more self-worth then most of those that came to the inn. She had a radiant beauty, grace and confidence you didn't find among the lower class. And since most of them never saw any nobility up close, it was doubtful any knew why they were so drawn to the woman outside she was a hot new blond in the inn.
"See? Hells, I've pro'lly got every man in 'ere either hatin' my guts or wishin' to any god'll listen that 'e was me.." He grinned, obviously okay with the attention. He liked the fact that, despite the multitude of people in the inn, Katahnia was sitting there next to him. Sometimes that inner caveman just won't let go..
Katahnia lifted her head, only then becoming aware of the stares as she blushed, lowering her gaze and hiding her face partially behind her hand as she leaned across their small table.
"I don't think I was dancing that good," she murmured, still unable to keep her smile away as she stared up at him, eyes sparkling affectionately. "But maybe I stand out more in this crowd than I'd thought?" she continued to stare at him, then had to look away, growing too bashful beneath his gaze.
Miranda had returned, and Katahnia leaned away from the table as the stew was served.
"Pipin' 'ot it is," she explained. "Don't go burning your tongues now and pay the tab at the bar before you fetch your room tonight. Harold's just done cleaning it. We had to wait for the er, other couple to vacate , if you know what i mean."s he said with a wink towards them both before glancing up at the ceiling above- which had since grown silent.
Katahnia followed her gaze with a blush, not knowing what to think or feel that..
that..
that...
Yes, her mind did not know how to react in that moment as it went long, skin, white, blush still evident on her cheeks.
"Oh you were most certainly dancing that good.." Cauwyn said with a good natured chuckle. He was about to lean in to say more, mostly to easy Katahnia's embarrassment, when Miranda returned with their stew. He grinned at her comment, following her eyes up, and then looked back at the girl as she prepared to leave, "We will lass, but be a dear an' have them fetch us a bath first, yeah? An' also, we're gonna need the room all night.."
That last bit got some laughter and a few whistles from some of the less than savory patrons at the inn. The old couple, for their part, grinned an whispered to one another as they looked on at Cauwyn and Katahnia affectionately. Cauwyn rolled his eyes, but didn't try to hid his grin, as he looked back to Katahnia. Miranda, for her part, had blushed almost as hard at the request but scurried off to arrange the necessary details.
"Don't worry, princess," Cauwyn said in a gentle voice, seeing how obviously distressed she was at the idea of being in the same bed, "They'll have changed the sheets and fluffed the bedding.." He tried to offer he a hopeful grin, "With any luck, after our bathes, that bed'll be nice an' soft an' warm.."
Katahnia blushed and tried not to think on the bed much, her eyes returning to her stew. It smelled heavenly as she placed a spoon into it and gave it a taste, not before blowing on it, mind you, to cool off the steam. It stated heavenly, if not a bit too salty for her liking. But when one was so hungry, did it matter?
She continued to eat, delicately, eyes glancing curiously about before Miranda returned to inform them.
"The bath will be ready within a while. YOu like it steamed for the two of you, eh? You both ought to fit, but it'll be a squeeze."s he tossed a wink, and it was only then Katahnia began to choke o her soup-
beginning to piece together..
the sharing of the room, the bath..
and sat erect, hands ove rher lips, appearing as if she had just seen a ghost.
Lucky for her, Miranda had already gone, but she still saw the look on the woman's face and muttered with a sniff, "Oh a virgin, good luck.."she whispered into Cauwyn's ear, patting his shoulder. "But if'a y'n can bang her louder than the other couple, I'll pay you twenty silvas."
Katahnia didn't catch it as she was trying to dislodge the piec eof chicken that had caught into her throat, and had since turned away from the table, nearly turning blue faced before the chicken finally passed. Wilting and panting to catch her breath, she shook her head, pulling her hair away from her eyes as she peered over at Cauwyn and timidly leaned over the table.
"Are.. are we really meant to-" she was too embarrassed to ask, face turning red. "Sharing the bed and bath?"
OOC: Lol....
OOC: Aww, poor Kat! Such a delicate little flower..
IC:
The hot stew went over well with Cauwyn. A few quick blows and he was stuffing spoonfulls into his mouth. Yes, he realized she said it was hot and yet he considered it might be rude to have your mouth open as you blew and inhaled to cool down chunks of food, but Cauwyn cared not. He only cared for the rumbling in his stomach and the chance to keep his mouth busy with something other than Katahnias lips. Or answering awkward questions.
So when Miranda made the comment about the tub and then at Kats reaction abut her in general, there wasn't much he could do beyond sit there wide eyed sucking and blowing on a large chunk of potato and chicken in his mouth. He shot a glare back at Miranda as her hand slipped from his shoulder and he struggled to swallow down his own food when he noticed Katahnia having trouble with hers.
Cauwyn was halfway to standing when she finally dislodged her food and settled into her chair. He had burned the shit out of his mouth, but had managed to force his own food down and so with outstretched hand and a clear look of panic on his face he coughed as he spoke, "Are...are you alright?"
Just as he started to settle into the chair she asked him a question that he had known was coming, and he only could wish he was still stuffing his face. Wiping some sweat from his brow and also his bangs back from his eyes, Cauwyn leaned forward and gave her a shake of his head, "It's a misunderstandin', that's all! I'll go tell 'em to draw us up two baths an' see if they got a room with two beds, yeah? An', if'n they don't, don't worry princess I'll sleep on the floor, yeah?" He offered her his most hopeful smile before standing to go speak with Miranda or who he could only assume was her mother.
OOC: She is- but omg, you should see my one character Eve.
She's um.. socially 'special' 8D
IC:
Katahnia felt a bit relieved when he mentioned about two baths and two beds, but her nerves were still at ends. SHe was new to this whole experience, so she wasn't entirely sure what to expect. And when Cauwyn approached Broom-hilda, the old woman cowed like a crow.
"What!? Two beds and two baths!?" She looked at Cauwyn, then looked over to where Kat sat, then back to Cauwyn again and narrowed her eyes, stooping over and jutting out her fat, lower lip. She leaned in, the large, hairy mole on her cheek seeming to reach out for him, even beckon as she spoke, "Wadya need another bed for? We only got one bath. We only got rooms with one bed. And we only got one room left. You want it or not?" she snapped, hands to her hips. "And warm water is extra. Clean soap, too. If you want, I can give you some lice rub powder to keep out the fleas. That'll be an extra gold." She grinned, showing off her single tooth ever protruding from her gums. "Whadya fancy? We can even provide grease for your sexual pleasures in bed, ifn' the miss 'ere be a bit dry, ya? Or, if your woman be a stiff, Miranda can take care of you right quick, she can."
Thankfully, the conversation was not held at the table as Katahnia observed from afar, finally partaking in some of her mead and making another face at the raw burn and flavor, quickly needign to hide it behind another scoop of soup.
"So, what did she say?"s he asked Cauwyn when he returned. "ANd if we have to share.."S he blushed. "Well, we can always see what can be done."
After all, who was she to argue when she was the one who was new to this life? Though it didn't help that they both seemed to have affections for one another, which only made the situation a bit more awkward for her.
It wasn't that she had never flirted or had been courted, she had only ever shared one kiss, one time, but that was so long ago..
and she had been young. And it was nothing like the feeling she had recieved from Cauwyn- especially now, that she was more of a woman and well...
She didn't think she would be able to fall for such a man, but his rugged exterior was quite alluring- something different, natural, and despite their happenstance to be together, it was odd, but it was almost like they were fated to be this way. The idea was rather appearing, and rather romantic-
but little did she know what that might mean it will have in store for their future-
Something that was uncertain at best.
"Old crone drives a hard bargain.." Cauwyn muttered in response to her question as he slid back into his chair, two more mugs in hand. Before elaborating Cauwyn lifted his other mug, drinking down what was left in a series of rapid chugs. When he sat the mug down he coughed, made a face, and after a moment of making sure it was only going to be a burp, released a belch thankfully away from Katahnia. With a heavy sigh he looked back at her, offering her a sad half smile, "So, there is only one tub an' the bedrooms only 'ave one bed. An' 'course they only got the one room left..."
He took another deep breath and sighed, taking a much more manageable drink from his mug before continuing, "So, we'll have t' share. I paid the extra for hot water an' clean soap, twice over..." It would have been so much easier if they had shared, though Cauwyn knew that would never happen as much as he would like it to, "So we'll just take turns usin' the bath.. As for the bed? Well," Cauwyn looked away for a moment, talking himself mentally out of simply asking to share. He had really been looking forward to a bed, but he knew just like the tub Katahnia would never go for it.
While looking over his shoulder the owner caught his eye and gestured to the girl Miranda who was bent forward enough at the bar that her breasts practically spilled out of her top, to the pleasure of every man at the bar. Cauwyn felt his cheeks redden. Of course, if he wanted a bed, he could always go that route.. But how would he explain it to Katahnia?
Cauwyn looked back to her and offered a small, sheepish smile. Embarrassed even though he doubted she would have picked up what was going on, "you'll just take th' bed an' I'll lay out my bedroll 'long the floor.."
Katahnia lowered her head at his statement.
"I see."
But there was not much either of them could do, now was there? Sighing, she lifted her eyes and smiled at him.
"It's alright. I'm sure we can manage. We've been through worse, I'm sure." she tried to smile at it, but the idea still made her nervous, even though he was being gentlemanly, and she was grateful for it. As for the bed, well, she felt guilty there was only one. But, as he mentioned, he had his bedroll, so she supposed that would suffice. And she was a lady after all..
"Thank you." she said softly, kindly, with a force smile.
Even still, the guilt didn't go away as she delicately worked at finishing her soup.
"This drink has a, er, unique burn to it," she said, deciding to change the subject as she took another nasty sip of the mead.
"Yeah.." Cauwyn mentioned somewhat lamely, taking a large drink of his mead. He was disappointed obviously. Not just that she hadn't offered to share the tub, which would have saved them a pretty penny, or the bed, which would have done his back some good, but mostly because she hadn't decided to share herself. Gentleman or not, he was after all just a man. A man with a need and nonplused to not see it met. Even if he hadn't really been trying.
He turned his own attention to back to the soup. While she delicately picked at it, Cauwyn was wolfing it down by the spoonful. Manners aside, it was habit to eat a meal as fast as possible. You never knew what was coming or when you would get to eat again. Between mouthfuls of stew he sipped at his third mug of the mead, his face not nearly contorting as bad as it had been at first.
"Huh? Uh, yeah.." He agreed with her as he sat down his own mug, staring down at it with a small frown, "I apologize for it.. Ain't really found good mead anywhere outside the tundra.." His lips curled into a wistful smile at the memory and he looked from the cup back up to her, "In Hyoite they use more honey, a lot, since it don't go bad.. And they heat it up! Nothin' quite like wakin' up on a cold tundra mornin' and havin' a pipin' hot cup of mead.."
Katahnia smiled at him.
"Perhaps someday we ought to visit the tundra? And maybe I can let you treat me to some of that mead you keep talking about." she teased, leaning across the table and went back to her soup. He was nearly done with his and she? Well, she ate the bread. It was rather good, much better than the soup and found herself breaking off pieces and popping it much more quickly into her mouth and when it was nearly half gone, she minded her manners and offered it out to him. "Would you like some before I eat this all up?"S he swallowed down what was in her mouth, realizing her manners and apologized. "Oh, where are my manners? It seems this place does a number on a girl. Next thing you know I'll be dancing on the table!"
"But honestly, are all places like this?" Katahnia made a face. "I just.. it's.. so hard to take in. I'm so used to a world that's well.. different."
Even though he had told her before, her head was still spinning at the idea, and well, her cheeks were already lightly glowing from the alcohol as she had another sip.
"You'll have to share with me some of your fun stories over other grand tavern adventures," she requeste,d leaning towards him wtih a dreamy stare as her elbow leaned into the table, cheek resting in her palm.
OOC: Lol, yes.. Katahnia the real party-er!
OOC: Woo, table dances! Cauwyn's going to start ordering shots of tequila!
IC:
"No one visit's the tundra.." Cauwyn said with a smirk before looking up and seeing that she meant it. He blinked, a bit surprised, and then smiled warmly. If she thought the tavern here was rough... He gave her a small nod, tilting his glass toward her, "But, princess, if you wanna see the tundra some day I'll take ya. It's hard livin', even in the best of circumstances.. And the taverns are a good deal rougher than this one.."
He drank down the rest of his mead, waving away the offer for the sweet bread with a flick of his hand. Cauwyn had never been one for sweets, even as a child. One time he had been given a sweet roll by one of the slaves, though before he could enjoy it the woman's owner had beat him down and taken it. Bryn, who confronted the man about it and put an end to any future ideas, had then beaten Cauwyn for allowing himself to be robbed. In the end, Cauwyn had just decided to stay away from sweet foods.
Miranda returned to the table, taking away his empty bowl and cups. She gave a rather haughty look at Katahnia and he cup that still held mead, and then started away. Cauwyn caught her arm, which brought a smile to the girls face, until he ordered two house ales and sent her on her way without so much as a smack to her rump. He returned his attention, and affectionate smile, to Katahnia.
"Well, this place is somewhat tame by most standards.." Cauwyn said with a casual shrug as he slouched lower into his chair. He could feel the warm buzz of the mead as it spread throughout him, filling him with plenty of cheer and loosening his tongue, maybe more than it should.. "No whores about an' aint no one been stabbed yet.." He looked around a the patrons, drinking and singing with a few dancing, but the mood was very light, even around a game of dice that had picked up at one of the tables.
"A story, huh?" He frowned in thought, looking at the dice and then back to her. The frown curled away into a smile and he gave a short nod, "Alright. Well, there was this one time in Ketra. Me an'..." He paused, catching himself, "an' some friends, we had just come into a good bit of coin and decided t' celebrate. We started drinkin' early, before the sun had even reached it's peak.. Well, by the time evenin' rolled 'round and the locals started showin' up, we were shit-housed..."
OOC: He should feel SORRY he's getting her drink! :T
just saying XD
IC:
Katahnia, who still hadn't much cared for the mead, had continued to sip on it as they spoke. Her eyes widening, then blinking and her voice twisting a bit here or there as he went on.
It might... must've been the mead speaking as he got to the one part of the story as she blurted out, "What do you mean shit-housed?" Her face twisted, then she slapped a hand over her mouth, then placed that hand to her chest as she gasped. "Oh, I'm so sorry. Really, my manner's this evening!" but she couldn't help but laugh. "Do go on," she waved, but made a terribly funny face at the idea. "I.. imagine this 'shit house' isn't what it seems?" Really, she hoped not! She tried to imagine it and.. the imagines were anything but pretty. So, in any case, she took more drink!
OOC: He's a gentleman, not dead lol!
IC:
Cauwyn burst into a fit of laughter at her outburst and then her reaction to it. His hand slapped the table as he forced himself to reign it into a grin, his eyes twinkling, "Well ya know how when ya get really drunk ya..." He paused, looking her over, chuckled and then started again, "Okay, well, when ya get really drunk sometimes, well, it makes ya wanna throw up.. Then normally the next day, well, princess, just know that we were really drunk, yeah?"
He paused his story as Miranda returned, setting down both ales in front of him. He slid one of the ales over in front of Kat, giving her a small smirk, "Here, try this, yeah? Might like it better. An', if ya don't, we'll get ya some wine, yeah? But try it first. Ya can't be goin' strait t' wine your first time in a tavern, can ya?"
He lifted his own mug and took a quick sip. It was cool and refreshing, if a little bitter. The bite, however, helped hide the burn of the alcohol and so he gave it an approving nod. He wasn't much a fan of ale either, but he was a fan of getting drunk to which ale was a major part at most places.
"So anyways," He cleared his throat, continuing, "A couple a fuckin' riders come in, talkin' all kinds of shit 'bout Adela this an' Adela that.. Now, one of m' friends was Serenian, grew up in a boarder town. Never much cared for Adelans. So he starts talkin' shit 'bout them an' their dragons an' how they like t' fu..." He caught himself again, hiding it in a drink of his ale before continuing, "how close they is with their dragons.. Meanwhile, I'm talkin' t' this pretty girl from the islands, which ever one ain't got the wings, an' before I knew it I got hit in th' back of th' head with a mug!"
He couldn't help his laughter as the memory came flooding back, fueled with the aid of alcohol. The sights and smells and laughter and chaos of it all was almost too much and he found himself slapping the table again, "It was three or four of us, an' about the whole bar full of them. We broke chairs, tables, bottles.. Anything we could get our hands on, ya name it. Rorick, th' guy who started it, 'e snatched up this little knife-ear slave and just threw it at a guy!" His laughter spilled back again. After a while the laughter began to die down and Cauwyn was quiet a moment, his thoughts turning back to those days and the men he knew.
A haunted, pained look crossed over his hazel eyes and he lowered them down to look into his tankard of ale. He forced a small, half smile, "Yeah, good times..." He said rather lamely, lifting his tankard to take another long drink.
When he sat the mug back down, he forced away the thoughts that threatened to over take him and put as much of a genuine smile up as he could muster as he looked at Katahnia, "An' what about you, princess? Surely ya have t' have a good party story, yeah?"
OOC: IF there are any typos, I'm sorry! I'm writing this while watching a documentary~
Katahnia didn't know why she was laughing so much, but she did. His story was amusing enough and her face flushed by laughter, and by drink and when the new one was presented, she made a terribly bitter face and withdrew.
"I.. I'm not sure how to make of it, but I suppose it's better than the mead."
But as his joviality began to fade away, she was not ignorant to it. She studied his face and took another drink of her ale, ignoring the peculiar after taste it gave her.
"It sounded like those times were really fun,"s he said, reaching a hand out to his and gently brushing her fingers over it before gently squeezing. "You had many friends." She squeezed is hand again then looked down when he inquired about herself and she gave a bashful shake of her head.
"Well, nothing so grand or extravagant. Well, in premise to a story. There was always much to see and take in and speculate when you had the money to travel with those of your own." She smiled a bit, shrugging. "There were balls against luscious ballrooms and grand chandeliers, royal gardens to witness and propriety to serve.."s he drew in a breath, regarding the very rich feeling of her former life, and the glowing light began to fade in her eyes, lips twitching from her smile before she looked to him.
"But there was dancing, yes. Not quite like what we shared today but.."s he looked down again, to her drink. The sound of the fiddle picked up again, and perked up at the tune, then turned over to Cauwyn. "Would you like to try another dance?" She was getting antsy, and the ale and mead already rushing to her head.
"Come on, let's try that fast stepped dance again!" She took his hand and laughed, guiding him with her back to the dance floor as her hands laced with his and her feet tried to move to the tune.
Cauwyn nodded silently as Katahnia reached for his hand and rubbed it gently. It made him feel uncomfortable, though he did his best not to show it. He had never been one for pity, either giving it or receiving it. It made him feel weak, inferior, it made him want to prove to her that he didn't need her pity! Then, when she mentioned how he had lots of friends, the anger in him sort of deflated. Yeah, he did use to have had friends. Most were dead and those that weren't hadn't understood why he left..
Her story of grand balls and giant chandeliers and all the things that one would expect of nobility brought a slight smile to his face. He could still remember the first chandelier he ever saw. He had still been a whelp of a boy when they sacked a minor castle near the coast. It had been beautiful, though Bryn had told him at the time that it wasn't even that impressive. Cauwyn was sure the ones Katahnia had seen were impressive. She was impressive..
For a brief moment Cauwyn let himself get lost in staring at her from across the table. The look of her hair, her eyes, the way her dress though dry now still stained and tattered clung in only the most flattering of ways. Of her kindness and the gentle touch of her hand. The way she possessed strength enough to almost pull him from his seat..
"Wha-?" Cauwyn blinked, coming out of his thoughts in mid stance as he was apparently dragged back toward the bards and the dancing floor. His smile widened and he took her hand up in his, bowed as best he could and kissed the back of it, "As you command, m'lady!"
And with that he straitened up and allowed her to pull him off into the dance. There were more people now than just them and the old couple, though the older couple was still there. The beat was fast and the tempo sat the heart racing. The song was one about a poor bar maiden in need of a man, who was courted constantly in the commoner style and at the end of it decided she would marry a pig. Most of the songs were of similar stories, some more racy than others, but it put the whole of the people into a good mood.
But as Cauwyn danced with Katahnia, he realized he didn't need the music to be put into a good mood. Her smile seemed to do that all on his own and he couldn't help himself but smile back as they danced and jigged together in the corner of the inn.
The dance was fun, and their feet moved fast as Katahnia and Cauwyn moved to the beat. The song's lyrics made her blush, as each time a new verse surprised and it shown most graciously on her face. A laugh here, a blush there, a smile there...
And the room was swirling, the dance taking into a whirling fun circle until Katahnia found even her own graceful strides stumbling as she tripped of Cauwyn's and crashed into his chest, laughing as her hair spilled across him as she held him fierce.
It seemed the drink and the fanatic spin of the dance were all but too much, and she could not pull herself from leaning against him, for all strength was lost to her laugh.
"I'm- I'm s-sorry, Cauwyn!" she said, finally lifting her sparkling eyes to him, face still graced with a blush. "The whole world is just spinning with dance and song!" she informed, laughing again as she tried to move to find her strength, fiddling picking up to another song as he tore her eyes away from him, then back over towards the dance floor.
"Come on, let's try this other one!"s he said, stumbling over her own legs before giving way to another laugh and dragging them both back out onto the middle of the small dance floor, feet moving quick and fast as she tried to replicate the fast and furious steps of the other dancers, and was soon hooking arms with Cauwyn again, laughing all the same.
And somewhere during the middle of the dance, the song was brought to rise, partners hitching arms, elbow to elbow, shoulder to shoulder, cheeks near to cheek as her other hand gently slipped into his, fingers lacing as her soft, green eyes met to his with such a longing gaze that, as they continued to move in a gentle, rhythmic circle, she found herself leaning ever nearer until finally their lips met again, halting them in their movements as the world around them returned to the frantic rush of song.
Cauwyn laughed and sung along with most of the bawdy tunes, though his voice didn't exactly lend its self to musical talents. However, the warm flow of the mead and ale through his body meant he didn't much care for how he sounded, laughing and singing anyways.
Her stumbling only brought more laughter, as did his own as he stumbled more than once to keep up with the fast paced steps and when she fell against him his arms instinctively circled around her, holding her close as he peered down at her with his own longing. Her laughter was contagious however, as was the sight of the noble woman drunk! Probably the first time in her life, too!
He was more than willing to return to the table and get back to drinking, though the creeping thought that maybe she shouldn't have anymore wouldn't leave him be. Cauwyn had never much cared for his conscience. It wasn't that he hadn't had one, just that he had spent a lifetime ignoring it until finally it would no longer be ignored. Now, as she drunkenly pulled him back toward the dancing he couldn't shake that damnable voice in his head. He knew that with a few more drinks he wouldn't be spending his night on the floor, and possibly not having to pay for two bathes! Unfortunately, as good as it sound, something was keeping him from enjoying the idea.
They spun and laughed and as the pace grew and he felt her soft hand intertwine with his own larger, rougher one Cauwyns heart raced faster than any amount of dancing could raise it. His mouth felt dry, but he barely noticed it. And then their eyes locked and everything else in the room faded away to nothing. Her lips connected to his and everything seemed to stop. He pressed into the kiss, hot and passionate and his mouth opened to push his tongue forward. And still yet, there was that voice. That damnable voice in his head who's stern warnings had turned to a fevered scream of 'she's drunk' put on repeat.
With more will than he thought he was capable of Cauwyn pulled his head back, breaking the kiss with a pained gasp. He wanted nothing more than to have his lips pressed to hers again. Well, that wasn't exactly true, there was much more that he wanted, but he was willing to settle then on the dance floor for more of a kiss. His newly found conscience would have none of it, however.
"Kat," His words were a raspy whisper as he looked pleadingly down at her, "you're drunk.." He tried to explain, but before he could a new song started. Slower than the usual ones, something for young lovers and hopefuls.
" 'scuse me.." A tall and rather roguishly charming man said. He was dressed in clothes that said he was better off than most in the town, but far from well-to-do, a well fitting loosely laced in the front and a pair of fine leather breeches. He filled out both with muscles that spoke of hard work, though his hands were softer in appearance than Cauwyns. He took Katahnia's hand in one of those gentle hands, kissing the back with a slight bow before looking to both of them, "Mind if I cut in?" And without waiting for a response he swept the inebriated Katahnia out of Cauwyn's arms and into his own, pressing her close yet respectful as he took her up in the dance.
Cauwyn looked less than pleased and was about to say such before he was ambushed by the young Miranda. She left a rather portly fellow at the bar who had been all but pawing at her, jumping at the chance to both be away from the lecher and to share a dance with Cauwyn. She was less respectful about how close she pressed herself against him, peering up with puppy dog eyes until with a disgruntled sigh Cauwyn forced a pleasant smile and started dancing with the girl.
OOC: Uh-oh! Cauwyn has competition!
Katahnia was already taken off into another dance before she could protest. When finally her regal tongue caught up to her, she was chastising the poor fool who cut in.
"Really now, that was rather rude. Couldn't you see the two of us were dancing?"
The man only smiled at her, taking her in. She was even more pretty up close, and her sudden flare of emotions only made her damn hot.
"Forgive me, I couldn't help myself. Not when I see a pretty thing dancing with that." Katahnia blinked and peered over at Cauwyn. "And it seems he's right more at home with that tavern wench."
Katahnia couldn't help but appear crestfallen, her heart breaking at the sight of his smile at Miranda.
"Well, I-" she began angrily, only to be cut off by the gentleman who held her in his dance.
"The name's Javier, what's yours?"
Blinking, she tore her eyes away from Cauwyn. "I"m-" and looked back at him once, noticed how closely Miranda was pulling him before frowning and turning up her nose towards Javier. "My name's Katahnia."
The man's eyes sparkled. "Such a pretty name. But it does beg the question. A woman such as yourself.. what is she doing dancing with an assassin?"
Katahnia blinked. "I beg your pardon?"
"What? Can't you tell by his mannerisms? Those scars practically yell out his tale. And he's got hardly any grace or civility of a knight."
Katahnia only laughed at his claims.
"Well, it just so turns out he IS a knight." she kept her nose pointed to the air, both of them still dancing in rhythm and becoming carried away most naturally to the tune. "And what would YOU know about knights, anyway?"
And it was here he leaned in closer.
"Because I am a knight." A knight that knew a proper lady when he saw one, and felt one too- her hands were so soft, her body, well.. the scent of pine was interesting and most intoxicating.
"I can see why the assassin has become so smitten," he continued, leering her appreciatively as Katahnia gave way to a blush. "Really now-"s he began, moving to push away from the dance, only to turn and watch as...
Miranda was making busy work with Cauwyn, having kept her body to a rock n roll rhythm as they pressed close.
"I'm so glad I finally got you all to myself," she cooed. "That woman was too stuff for you. And you look tense, love." Her hands smoothed over his chest. "Oh, real tense." She almost purred. "Why don't you give up on the blonde one eh? Let's go have fun in that room before she notices you're gone? She won't miss ya, I don't think. Seems Javier over there already has her rather spoiled. He is a good dancer, perhaps a bit good of a kisser and in bed, too. But what he won't know won't hurt him either. That girl will probably pass out before the song in through, now come on, love." She kissed Cauwyn hotly upon the lips, to keep his eyes only on her. "My body's already ready. What say you? Just a quick roll? I'm good for the bang." And her smile was most wicked and tempting indeed, even her hands sliding a bit devilishly down below before she pressed them close together for another quick kiss, tongue slipping in hungrily against his. "I promise you'll have a good time."
To see his mouth on another woman's-
It was too much and suddenly Katahnia found herself pushing away from Javier as she tore out of the place and out the door, stumbling and running until falling into a tree some distance just outside the gates of the town, where she fell to her knees, sobbing in a fit of tears.
Javier, not certain what had just gone on, blinked when he turned back to Cauwyn and made an angered face.
"Look, Miranda.." Cauwyn started in a patient tone, his eyes lingering on Katahnia as she danced with that other prick. It caused a stirring of anger, of jealousy within him and the press of the young womans body against his own stirred other thoughts as well. Maybe it was better this way? Katahnia was not interested in him, and even if she was she would be too good for him. Too good for that other prick too. Still, as lovely as this girl was she wasn't what he wanted. It wasn't what his lips and body hungered for, but before he could say it she pressed her lips to his in a hot kiss.
It shocked Cauwyn, who hadn't been expecting the kiss, and his mouth opened with a gasp that allowed the other girls tongue entry. His head was already pulling back when Katahnia ran by and he turned to yell after her when the girl snaked her hand around the back of his head and tried to pull him back in for another kiss.
"Away wench!" Cauwyn barked in a rough tone, rougher than anything he had used since his days with the Crows. A calloused hand reached up to cover the womans open mouth and he pushed her away forcefully sending her to the ground. The music stopped, as did the dancing, though Cauwyn hardly noticed as he glared down at the girl in a way that caused her to try and shrink against the floor, "Have had enough of your antics! I'll not be sharin' anythin' with ya, cock, bed or otherwise!" His words boomed in the inn, dripping with venom.
Javier moved instantly to the young girls side and his mouth opened to berate Cauwyn, but Cauwyn didn't even notice. He turned from the crowd and started at a dead run for the door. This of course didn't go well with the bar matron, who called after the two! Her, along with Javier, Miranda and a few other patrons took chase after the mercenary.
Cauwyn spun a few times just outside of the inn, only catching a fleeting glimpse of Katahnia heading toward the gate. Despite the pain and soreness he felt, nor the wooziness of the alcohol, he took chase after her leading the procession of people through the town to the gate.
"Kat!" He caught up to her winded and red faced, slowing to a jog and then leaning forward to lean his hands upon his knees beside, "Katahnia, wait! Look," His words were chopped between the heavy breathing of his run, "look, what's wrong? Did... did that as-asshole try t' t' touch ya?"
And as if summoned on queue Javier and the others arrived, forming a half circle around the two. Javier stepped forward, roughly shoving Cauwyn aside before kneeling down beside Katahnia with caring eyes, "My lady, please... What has this ruffian done to offend you so?"
"Me!?" Cauwyn barked, indignant and angry, "How 'bout you, jack-hole!"
"Stand aside, assassin! Or taste my steel!" Javier produced a rather large dagger from his belt, leveling it at Cauwyn. The man moved protectively between Katahnia and Cauwyn while the crowd around them began calling for blood.
"What?" Cauwyn blinked in shock, mouth open. Not so much at the dagger or threat of violence, but at the way the man had announced it, "Are you..? 'Taste your steel?' are you joking?" Cauwyn stepped forward, obviously unconcerned by the dagger or the man. His hazel eyes, always so bright and cheerful, full of mirth and excitement hardened over. They became a cold void, like death, with a stare as intense as any bird of prey eyeing a mouse in a field.
"Gentlemen, gentlemen please!" The holder man from earlier on the dance floor came forward. He held up his hands in an attempt to calm both them, and the crowd as he stepped forward.
Katahnia was too upset to reply, still crying and keeping her eyes averted when the entire entourage showed up and Javier beckoned for a fight. She would have tried to protest, but she was in no mind or spirit for it, so when the older gentleman stepped in, she felt somewhat relieved.
That was, until the knight continued in attempts to 'defend' her honor.
"The lady and I were enjoying a dance when she noticed you all over the bar maid and ran off." Javier spat, keeping his blade pointed at the assassin, not flinching when the man's eyes turned cold. In fact, he seemed to relish it as he gave a cold smile in reply. "I only want to make amends on her honor. A man can not just simply walk away from that. Draw your blade, or be cast down without it!"
"Tempers! Tempers!" the old man went on, and it was about this time his wife had showed up, trying her best to keep up in her dress and shoes as she moved past her husband and to the girl. "I'm sure this can he resolved by other means!"
"There, there, deary, come with me now, love. THis place ain't becoming fit no more for us ladies if hte blood starts falling," the old woman tried to be comforting, and lead Katahnia away, and the young woman was in no mindset to protest, at least not in that moment as her mind was still in a whirl...
But.. Cauwyn had come after her...
Was he not happy when he was with Miranda? She.. they...
as she turned to peer back over at Cauwyn, her eyes glazed hotly over with a fresh set of tears.
"All over... What th'?" Cauwyn was confused and a little shocked. He really had no idea what was happening, though he thought he was starting to see it. His brow furrowed and his eyes narrowed as he struggled to put the pieces together, "Wait, the bar wench? Ansgars cock! That little strumpet was all over me!" Why did no one see he was the victim here? This asshole had swooped in, stolen Katahnia away, and before he could do anything some girl barely old enough to be out of pigtails was throwing herself at him!
"Boy, ya best put down that little blade o' yers before ya get hurt.." Cauwyn's voice carried an altogether dangerous edge to it. He made no move for his own blade, content to simply stare this other man down. Miranda, unable to withstand the humiliation of his rejection or his words, began screaming violently for Cauwyns blood. A few in the crowd joined in, though most seemed to know the girl for who she truly was.
But then the old man was talking, pushing them apart and calling for order. He thought the fight would be put to rest, but that didn't seem to be what was happening.
"Now, if you two are going to fight," The old man started as his wife began leading Katahnia away, "let it be without swords or knives! In fact, how about a good old fashioned brawl?" The old man delighted the crowd with the idea as people began cheering and hooting. Even Javier, who was still seething, flashed Cauwyn a smug and dangerous smile. He was bigger than Cauwyn, size wise, and certainly prettier.
Cauwyn, for his part however, only watched as Katahnia was lead away from him. What had he done? He hadn't done anything, that's what! Why was she crying and bellyaching about? He was the one who had been attacked by a teenage and then threatened in the streets! She had no right to sit around crying at him... but when her eyes filled with those hot tears as they shared one last look Cauwyn felt something like sharp and twisting agony in his chest. Why did it hurt so much?
A few grunts cleared it from his system and as he returned his attention to what was happening around him, Cauwyn realized that the small inn crowd had already formed a circle around the two of them and that the old man was taking bets. Cawuyn sniffled back the feelings that threatened to come up and began unbuckling his belt. He pulled that and the baldric up over his head, setting them on the ground out of the way. Then he pulled off his worn, dirty, sweaty tunic and tossed it in a lump next to his weapons. He could feel peoples eyes on his skin. On the roadmap of pain drawn in various scars over a lifetime of fighting. Cauwyn said nothing, let them think what they will. He knelt next to his belt and began fumbling with the wooden toggle on one of his pouches. From it he pulled a strip of dingy, dirty red cloth which he folded ever so precisely and then wrapped around his forehead to keep his hair out of his eyes.
The second thing he pulled out as he stood was a small leather sack. There wasn't much and it didn't include what Katahnia had pulled off those dead bodies, but it was all the money he had on him. Barely enough to cover their debt at the inn as it was.
"Here, old man." He tossed the man the sack without taking his eyes off of Javier, "All of it, on me.." With that Cauwyn cracked his knuckles against his palms and then popped his neck, watching with the intensity of a hawk the other man as they prepared for their fight.
Everything was happening so fast and her emotions were in a whirl. These people were calling for blood. Cauwyn's blood!? and was this all at her account.
"What.. what are they proposing to do?" Katahnia asked, her voice trembling as she peered over their way, but the woman had guided her quite a distance and Katahnia finally halted them as she looked at the elderly woman, who only smiled.
"Just a man's fight," She said, giving Katahnia a gentle wink. "Nothing that ain't too uncommon, but it's been a while here, eh? ANd you should be thankful. Not many a girl can claim to have Javier fight for their affections after dancing with them just once.."
Katahnia drew a hand to her lips.
"You mean?"
The old woman nodded.
"The two men are gonna fight over you! And the bettin's already hot!"
Katahina went white, feeling her stomach lurch inside her as she turned her panicked gaze over towards Cauwyn as she began to show off the scars on his skin. Her hand went over her mouth again.
"No.."
"Ah, a lover's quarrel.." the old woman reflected, thinking back tot he day's when she had once been so youthful and pretty- and had a few men fight over herself, as well!
OOC: Sorry my post isn't as long XD
I didn't want to um, interrupt the fun just yet X3 Considering Katahnia would be VERY opposed and become VERY vocal against the idea- XD maybe in my next post~
OOC: Fighting for a princess' honor? Doesn't get more knightly than that!!
IC:
"You'll rue the day you broke that poor girls heart, assassin!" Javier exclaimed as the two men began their slow circle dance within the ring created by spectators. As he passed Miranda, whom he'd given his things too, they shared a quick look before she pointed at Cauwyn and began chanting 'kill him' repeatedly. Javier only gave Cauwyn a more disgusted smile, "It would seem you broke two hearts assassin, and tonight you shall pay for both.."
Cauwyn watched quietly, quelling the rising worry over Katahnia. Where was she? Was she okay? Was she still mad? These questions swirled in his head and he struggled to put them down, to focus on what was at hand. He didn't catch all of what Javier was saying, but he got the jist of it. He was a little confused why the man kept calling him an assassin, but arguing the point hardly seemed worth it, "Yeah, yeah pretty boy. Just get it done with, yeah? I don't give Kia's cunt about that barroom wench! An' if I hurt Kats feelin's, then I'll be the one t' settle it!"
"It's Katahnia! How dare you shorten the ladies name!" Javier bellowed, and with that it began. Javier charged in with a flurry of blows, most of which Cauwyn blocked. The problem was that with his shirt off, the yellow and purple bruises were prominent and made inviting targets. More than once Cauwyn was forced to suck in air rather than scream when a blow landed against his ribs or kidney.
He wasn't all defense however. Between parrying punches with the blade of his forearm and ducking and weaving others, Cauwyn returned a steady stream of strikes. They seemed innocuous at first. One to the cheek, then the chin. A blow to the ribs followed by another. A knee to the inner thigh and then an elbow to the opposite rib. Nothing looked to be thrown with any power, but each strike elicited a grunt from Javier. Within a matter of moments Javier had gone from a whirlwind of punches to backing steadily away from Cauwyn every time the scarred mercenary advanced.
As soon as the crowd errupted into a fury of excited screams, Katahnia tore after them.
"Miss!?" the old woman called after her. "I wouldn't be running back there's if I was you!" but she hardly tried to stop the young girl. After all, it did add a touch of drama to the situation.
Katahnia's heart was nearly in her throat as her boots pounded across the ground as she scrambled forward, trying to push through the crowd.
"Let me, through- I have to stop this! This is ridiculous! If you please.. let me-" but a beefier looking fella didn't like Katahnia's pushiness, and disregarded the girl as she simply pushed her aside, forcing her to land in the mud. Katahnia let out a gasp. Really! How rude of him, though from her vantage point on the ground, all she could see was a flurry of moving feet between a few legs of the on-lookers as she held her breath.
Were these men really fighting over her?
Her heart flipped in worry.
"Cauwyn..."
OOC: Fight for PRIIIIIIIIIINCESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
It was a vicious dance back and forth. The wet slap-crack of fists smacking into flesh echoed dimly about the blood thirsty chanting of the crowd. The fevered pitch the crowd made, yelling advice and encouragement and heckling and swearing all at once made for a heady environment. It also served to draw the attentions of others as a few more stragglers and strays approached to watch the fight.
Without realizing it the man had hooked his leg behind Cauwyns. With a powerful left uppercut Cauwyn stumbled back, his foot got caught up, and he went down into the mud with a grunt and a splash. He twisted, looking around with a certain amount of haze in his eyes seeing things without seeing them. And then he saw Katahnia, sitting in the mud watching between fights.
Both of his eyes had black rings, though the cheek on the left side was beginning to swell. His lip had busted back open in the same spot as before. A cut had formed over the bridge of his nose, as well as along left brow and one on his right cheek. His hazel eyes, loopy and unfocused as he looked at her, snapped sharply into focus and despite the pain and the bleeding Cauwyns mouth twisted into a broad smile given to Katahnia showing he still had all his teeth. She was watching him. She came to watch!
Cauwyn twisted onto his back at the last second as Javier approached, ready to pounce down on him. Cauwyn pulled his knees to his chest and then kicked upward with the bottoms of both boots sending the man stumbling back as he connected with his jaw. And then Cauwyn was up again, swinging on Javier.
Left, right, left, body, body, left, body, knee, knee, knee, left and then finally Cauwyn twisted, dropped his hips and through his body weight into a punch that sent a resounding crack throughout the little gathered group. Javier twisted as he was sent flying back before landing limp on the ground. Cauwyn wasted no time, springing on top of the man and raining down blows until two other man hooked his arms and pulled him off.
OOC: If there are typos in this reply, it's cause I am sleepy!
IC:
If Katahnia could have found her voice to stop the fight she would, but as she sat there in the mud, watching blow after heavy blow, blood flying from mouth and cheek- she was stunned and found herself only able to watch in horror before finally finding the strength in her legs to pull herself to her feet. It was only after Javier was down that she realized she should have spoken sooner, done anything to stop this barbaric display-
but then men were tearing Cauwyn back and away, and she found strength in her legs again to rush over towards his side.
"Cauwyn," her words came gentle and soft as she pushed past the men and stood before him, eyes only looking for him. Full of concern, full of worry as a gentle hand met to his cheek...
and it was only then she began to realize she could do nothing for him- her healing spells could not work, but soon he was pulled away from her again as they were split apart again as the crowd roared and cheered, swelling between them as a sudden, heavy sack of money was shoved into Cuawyn's hand.
The old man grinned.
"Yer winnin's." he told him, then chuckled, patting Cauwyn on the shoulder.
"Now go to yer girl."
The place was packed, and her form was lost amongst the craze. It was almost dizzying as she tried to push her way through, barely poking her head out amongst the sea of spectators to steal just another single glance towards Cauwyn before two heavier men stepped forward, laughing up at Cauwyn and smacking him friendly and heavily upon his shoulders.
"What a fight, stranger! What a fine, fuckin' fight indeed!"
"Hey, princess.." Cauwyn said in a gentle, somewhat hazy voice. He hadn't considered that she was touching him to try her magic, so he reached out with a large calloused hand with bruised knuckles and gently touched her cheek as well. But before he could say anything else, a tender moment he was not used to and longed for was taken from him as people piled in between them.
He took the offered money with a smile, though he was distracted in his search for Katahnia. More people pushed in and the glimpses of her he had became fewer and far between. Cauwyn half-heartedly thanked the people around him. Shaking a couple hands and nodding toward their praises and descriptions of the fight.
All he wanted to do was get back to Katahnia, and then get her back to the inn. He tried to make his way through the crowd where he saw her last, following the old mans advice when the two large men approached him and began congratulating him.
"Yeah, thanks," He mumbled, rapidly becoming lost in the crowd himself. The two men though wouldn't have it, and continued to cheer and praise him. He smiled, barely able to shuffle by. Another woman, older in age and with the thick body formed from hard farm labor came up to him, handing him back his weapons belt and tunic, which he thankfully took from her.
"Now, let us all share a few drinks!" The old man said over the din of noise, much to the peoples cheer. The old man looked at the owner of the inn with a firm, but unpleasant smile, "That is of course alright by you, Hilde?"
"Of course!" The old woman said with a stern look around, "Most everyone here needs to be payin' for their drinks and meals anyways! And you!" Her stern gaze fell on Miranda who was helping the groggy Javier to his feet. She paid the knight no mind, snatching the girl by the ear, "What have I told ya about starting trouble!? Come along, strumpet, and get back to work!" She roughly pushed the girl back toward the inn and then set about corralling the others that way as well.
OOC: THis post MIGHT be full of special- considering I should NOT still be rping at 6am 8D
IC:
It was becoming frustrating that, the more she tried to get near her, the more people got into her way until Kathania was bumped to near the back. Crestfallen, she continued, however, until her efforts proved fruitful, and just as Cauwyn was returned his sword and clothes, his woman returned to him as well.
"Cauwyn!" she spoke his name, pushing past the crowds before suddenly spilling on top of him and hugging him fierce.
And after sometime, still clutching him tightly, she whispered.
"Gods, Cauwyn. I'm so sorry. You're all hurt and injured because of me I-" and she lifted her teary eyes to him, but couldn't help but smile, so grateful to see him alive and...
Well, just a wee bit proud that he had won a fight!
ANd well, won a fight for her!
Cauwyn was a bit disoriented as they all shuffled back towards the inn. He had just finished putting the fat sack of winnings into a pouch on the jumbled belt in his arms when someone attacked him! Or, more precisely, someone launched themselves at him and latched on. His ribs were even worse, bruised and sore and all shades of purple black and yellow, but he gritted his teeth against the pain of her hug unwilling to admit that it hurt in fear that she may let go.
While one arm was used to hold out his things away from her, his other arm wrapped around her in a close comforting hug. She didn't have to worry about holding on too tightly, Cauwyn had no intentions of letting her go. Again he smiled down to her, the only trace of pain being in the wince in his eyes.
She started to speak, started to apologize. As much as Cauwyn had blamed her before, he didn't want to hear it now. Now he had one, and in front of her. He felt proud and strong and didn't want to hear anything that make it seem like she was sorry. Cauwyns arm, the one that wrapped around her, bent at the elbow until his hand found Katahnia's hair. She was looking up at him with teary eyes and he was afraid she would cry or bury her face in his chest. He could have neither of those happen. Instead his hand closed around her hair, holding her head in place and Cauwyn bent down through the pain, pressing his lips to hers in a hot, hungry, passionate kiss.
Around them, those that saw it including the old couple, began cheering. Clapping and laughter exploded around them. Everyone except Javier and Miranda of course, who didn't look pleased at all.
Her breath was taken away in that moment, her fluttering inside her chest- like a million trapped butterflies in a cage. And the kiss was raw and intense, drawing a flush to her cheek-f or she was one who might not ever be so bold.. (let alone, so bold in public!), but she didn't care in that moment as her body shook with a laugh, she only pulled away to breath and kissed him again, not caring that there was blood and sweat all over him.
It just felt good. It felt right, and the kisses were never ending as she leaned enthusiastically against him, unintentionally knocking him over by her weight, but continued, still, to kiss him while he was on the ground.
"I'm sorry," she said, breathing through a kiss. "Did I hurt you?" she kissed him again, hands cupping his cheeks. "In the fall?"
It was raw and hot and passionate and completely unexpected by Cauwyn. He had, in the back of his mind, considered the possibility that he would be taking another painful blow to the face. That didn't happen though, instead he found himself showered with kisses. So much so that he was driven back, his legs buckling beneath him as they both tumbled to the ground outside of the inn.
A grunt escaped him into one of the kisses, but Katahnia seemed to pay no mind and Cauwyn didn't press the issue. His stuff forgotten to the ground Cauwyn wrapped his arms around her and pulled her harder against him. He pushed his body up against her as best as he could from his back, trying to devour more of the kiss.
When she finally pulled away to cup his cheek, Cauwyn was laughing despite the pain he felt from the act. And from her on top of him. And from the fall. All of it was a minor inconvenience in the background of his mind as the fingers of one hand interlocked into her hair while the other trailed dangerously low to the small of her back.
"I'm fine," He responded before a kiss, and then after, "trust me," and yet another kiss.
Above them the hold man laughed, his eyes sparkling as he wrapped one arm around the shoulders of his wife, "Alright you two, I believe you have a bath and a room for this sort of thing? No reason to give these people yet another show.."
Katahnia's face turned beet red at the old man's comment as she placed a hand over her lips.
"He is right you know,"s he said after a time, drawing her hand through his hair to keep it out from his face as her green eyes studied him, she, remaining perched atop of him. "You need a bath." She wrinkled her nose at him, smiling as she slipped off his form. "Come on." She offered down her hand. "Let's get you cleaned up, assassin." And she said it in the best, tough man impressionistic voice she could.
Once inside, the two went up the simple pairing of wooden stairs and were guided into a single room- the one in which had loose floor boards, a half-fluffed bed of hay, sheets tossed over it with stains, and a thin, almost translucent and cracking screen for privacy between one side of the room to the other where, behind it, was a warm bath in the ready.
Katahnia took in the small, dirty room in wonder, and timidly stepped inside before tucking back some of her hair. Her hands had been laced into Cauwyn's as they walked through the Inna nd then to their room-
and she couldn't help but feel strange and hot about it-
after all, she was a prude, but very well knew what had been going on inside this room, as she noticed the furniture seemed to have remained in a half state of disarray.
Well. at least the sheets were cleaned?
She turned to them- and almost frowned.
Perhaps.. not!
"Well, this is.. certainly interesting." was all she could say.
To say Cauwyn looked disappointed when she slipped off of him was an understatement. He laughed at her impersonation of Javier, rolling his eyes at the thought of being referred to as an assassin. While he certainly had killed plenty of people, he considered assassins to be shadowy men in dark corners with poisons and bows. The idea that, one man with a sword in a siege could be an assassin seemed a little too out there for him.
He followed along through the inn still shirtless, his tunic balled up under the arm he held his weapon belt with, his other hand occupied with having his fingers intertwined with Katahnias. The stares and whistles and more than a few cheers as they were guided up the stairs were not in the least put down by Cauwyns glare, which only made him laugh more.
The sight of the room was a far cry from what he had been expecting, and as such he let out a low impressed whistle. While Katahnia was used to castle living, this was almost four stars by poorer standards. Not only did the straw bed of sheets and straw pillows, there was even a table and wardrobe made from second hand wood. The thin privacy screen didn't have any holes in it, though maybe it was a little cracked with age.
"I don't know," Cauwyn said with a smirk, "looks nice 'nough t' me! Kinda homey, an' it aint a moldy dungeon or a tent in the mud.." He shrugged, peering around as best he could from behind Katahnia.
Katahnia stopped in the doorway, or more accurately just inside a few steps, which stalled Cauwyn in the doorway. With a wry smirk his now freely untangled hand was used to give the duchess a firm slap on the ass, knowing that would get her moving and when it did, Cauwyn slipped by and past to the bedside to drop his stuff. And, you know, escape the immediate danger of the slap.
OOC: Danger Will Robinson! Danger!
Katahnia gave a start, as well as a jump, into the room. She turned to Cauwyn, hitting him lightly before moving to close the door.
"Mind your manners, Cauwyn. You are a knight,"s he reminded coolly, then slipped away, eyes roaming all over the place. It was rather quaint, definitely.. different, by her standards, and as she slipped behind the privacy screen, she took a moment to allow a few fingers to slip into the tub.
"The water's still warm," she commented, and frowned a little to see how nasty and stained the porcelain tub had become. The bottom was black ringed and dingy, and the sides had far too much hair on it for her tastes. The only thing that could be said was the bar of soup seemed, erm.. fresh.
Stepping away, she noticed a pair of towels- though yellow with use and stained, but folded neatly and clean enough on a stool.
"Well, I... I say it's got all the luxuries a king could ever ask for,"s he said, trying to lighten her expectations with a shrug.
"Perhaps you ought to receive your bath first?" she inquired. "I can wait my turn. After all, you did defend my honor." She teased, raising her eyes to his, then looking away, feeling embarrassed. "Cauwyn,"s he began, drawing in a slow breath before returning those green eyes to him as she rose off of the floor from where she had been kneeling beside the tub. "I'm.. sorry I had gotten so upset. Had I not over reacted, well I.. you... well, the fight wouldn't have happened."
"Don't stand in doorways, princess.." He chastised with a grin, his way of apologizing without having to say sorry, then bowing deeply at the waist as he swung out his arm in a flourish. It hurt, and he coughed a little, wincing as he straitened himself back. Cauwyn placed his things beside the bed and immediately began searching the drawers of the table and the small wardrobe. There was nothing of use, unfortunately, but you never knew what people might have left behind!
He moved to the edge of the bed and sat with a quiet grunt of pain, enjoying the feeling of his tense sore leg muscles relaxing without his weight on them. It would have been nice, he thought, if he could do the same for the rest of his body. While she inspected the tub, Cauwyn inspected himself. Bruised, battered and sore he frowned in thought of how the fight had gone. He could have beaten the man faster, probably without letting the prick touch him, but had wanted to drive up the betting. Now he paid for that sort of confidence. In his old life, a fight like that was not uncommon, but not killing the man or wounding him too bad to come after him again was a mistake. As was allowing himself to be so wounded. He felt vulnerable, and he didn't like it.
"Hm?" Cauwyn raised his head, coming out of his own thoughts as he peered at the kneeling Katahnia through the thin divider. A small half smirk tugged at his lips, which caused the cut to hurt, as he spoke, "Kat, please. If'n ya hadn't done that, honestly I don't think we woulda had th' coin t' cover all of this.. Not without sellin' some stuff, first. An' 'sides, you're a woman," He gave a small shrug that caused something, somewhere, to pop. He grunted, winced, and then continued, "ya not bein' all 'motional woulda been like me not wantin' t' fight that cock for takin' ya 'way from me in the first place.." He flexed his hands into fists, testing his sore knuckles, "An' I did. Soon as he swept ya away with that pretty little face o' his. Just wanted t' break it.."
He offered her a quick grin, "So I guess, in the end, I should be thankin' ya, yeah?" With that he bent with a grunt of effort and began tugging at his boots.
There was a knock at the door. Harold pushed it open slightly, the boy hoping to catch a peek at whatever might be happening within the room. When he saw Katahnia was still dressed he seemed a bit crestfallen, but picked up quickly and offered a nervous smile.
"I-I brought yer things miss, an'...an' yers sir!" The boy announced, holding up the armful of saddle bags they had left with their horse, along with Cauwyn's shield, spear and pack. He looked nervously between Katahnia and the dim outline of Cauwyn on the bed, though his eyes always returned to Katahnia. The boys cheeks flushed bright red and he looked at the ground, "M-m-ma said yous, yous w-would want 'em brought up, 'cause someone m-might take 'em if'n they was l-left in th' stables.."
Katahnia blushed when Cauwyn tried to remove the blame.
"Are you always this good at diversions?" and there was much meant in her phrase, though she still smiled at him, admiringly so. "But you did seem awfully at home there in the fight."S he added sheepishly, taking a moment to admire his muscles and examine his wounds from afar when the door suddenly opened and she gasped, looking away, cheeks turning pink.
At the mention of bringing their things, Katahnia smiled and approached the door.
"Thank you," she said sweetly, accepting what she could and set them aside, the rest she gestured for Harold to place against or ontop of a nearby, worn wood chair. Then, the boy stood there, as if expecting something, and Katahnia knew not what as the two stood awkwardly at the door-
"Yes.. well, if we need something else, we will call."
The young man looked up, though he was really still a gangly boy, and nodded before making a hasty retreat.
After he left, Katahnia smiled as she turned to Cauwyn.
"So.." she raised a curious brow at him. "How much reward did you get?" she was curious, after all! it was quite a fight, after all, and was she not privileged enough to know? She sat on the bed next to him, grinning at him like a playful fox.
Cauwyn watched the boy with a grin, his boot half off. He completely understood why, after the things were left, the kid just stood there trying his best not to make it look like he was staring at Katahnia. When she dismissed him, Cauwyn finally let out a loud chuckle and shook his head. The best part, he thought, was that Katahnia was probably completely unaware of the young boys crush.
"Well, I guess everyones gotta be good at somethin', yeah?" He said vaguely in answer to both her questions. He did enjoy it, the fighting. The proving himself better than the other man and part of him wanted to take it a step farther. He wanted to kill Javier. He wanted to feel that rush of taking another mans life, even though that newly found voice in the back of his head said it was wrong. Said he would regret it as he did the other lives laid to rest at his hands.
"Oh, so now ya want t' know how much we made, yeah?" He joked, giving her a sly grin as he leaned from the bed over to his belt. He fished out the fat leather sack of coins, setting it down on the straw mattress beside him and loosened the leather thong that held it closed. When he emptied it, even Cauwyn was surprised by the amount of coin that came out.
He had had a few silvers left when he first met Katahnia. Not so many as when he had first set out from the mercenary camp, what with expenses and all, but he'd still had at least three that he knew. Plus a handful of copper.
Now on the bed sat at least three large gold coins and two smaller ones, along with nearly a dozen silvers and twice as many coppers. It was a sum he hadn't seen since his time as a mercenary and even then, most contracts paid out far less when the dividing was done amongst the group. Cauwyn nearly choked eyes widened as he worked his tongue in his mouth.
"I... well," He let out a long, slow sigh before prying his eyes away from the coin and up to Katahnia, "it's uh, it's quite a bit.. I didn't realize so many people o' means had been there.." His eyes moved back down to the pile of coins. One calloused finger moved out to poke around a few of the gold pieces.
To Katahnia, money was a trifle thing, something she never physically had her hands on, but had been ripe with it. To see money and what feelings it brought made her excited, happy even for him, and for herself, considering she had no money between the two of them on her own.
"I'm sure you've earned every copper,"s he teased, wrinkling her nose as she admired him, but then it quickly faded as she looked him over. As nice as it was to see a man with no shirt, well, he was pretty banged up and she couldn't help but worry, and also wonder about his scars.
He had so many, it was almost as if he had a different texture altogether on his skin.
Blinking, she looked up at him.
"How are you feeling? Those wounds look sore, and the bruises, painful." Her eyes wavering a little. "I only wish.." and she sighed, smiling sadly when she averted her gaze before looking to him again. "It's just odd I can not help you." She pressed her lips together, eyes studying his. "If I could heal away those wounds...."she began, speaking lightly, a gentle finger moving against the air, just mere centimeters from his skin over a wound. "I would."
"For us, princess.." Cauwyn said with a small smile and a wink, "You had part in this too, don't forget.."
When she started talking about the healing, he frowned looking down over his scarred and bruised frame. Yeah, it didn't look good, but he had had far worse. The scars though.. He had never been ashamed of them before, but recently it seemed that he couldn't stop thinking about them. Everyone had scars, he thought, but he felt like his were different. They stood out more, set him apart. He had been proud to earn them, to survive them, and now he just wished they would go away.. At least, a part of him did.
"If," Cauwyn started as he took her hand in both of his, pressing it between them. He smiled down at her, soft and as gentle as his words, "ya could, I'd still pro'lly ask that ya don't. Pain, this sorta pain, keeps a man honest. Others, with them fancy wizards an' healers an' what not, they don't worry 'bout it. They don't worry 'bout how t' fight 'cause they can just get healed up.." Cauwyn shrugged, "These keep me honest. I feel every blow, an' I gotta pay the price for bein' too slow or too weak. Like it was meant t' be.."
He pulled her hand up to his face and gently kissed her fingers. It wasn't something he had ever done before, but it was something he wanted to do now. To be gentle and nice and kind. To not hurt her, or scare her, or take from her. But, it didn't change the level of want he had when he looked at her.
"Besides," His soft smile turned quickly into a wry grin, "there are plenty of other ways ya can make me feel better.." He said with a wink and a laugh, kicking his boot away and breaking the sappy moment apart before any more of those pesky emotions he didn't understand welled up. At one poin the had thought he would cry just getting to sit next to her, imagine that! Jumping up on one booted foot Cauwyn pulled Katahnia from the bed and hugged her close, the music from down stairs still wafting up through the thin floorboards, "C'mon then, lets do this!" And with another laugh he began dancing, though it was much slower from the bruising and much more awkward caused by only having one boot on!
Katahnia blushed at his gesture when his lips met to her fingers. It made her heart flutter, and her body fill with thrill and want. And the next thing she knew, he was making a lewd comment as she gasped, but was suddenly laughing as he was pulled to her feet. Dancing along with him, she couldn't help but ask as their fingers entwined.
"How is it that you can be dancing after a fight like that?"
"Are you kiddin'?" Cauwyn laughed, hiding away the wince of pain as he spun with her, "That was hardly a fight! I let that little cock-mongrel get them hits in!" He boasted with some bit of truth to it, wrapping his arm around her waist and dipping her back. When he pulled her back up there was a brief moment when they were pressed together and without hesitation Cauwyn stole in for a kiss. It was hot, but brief, before they were at arms length, their feet moving in rhythm to the jig. Or at least, his were trying to. He looked up from watching his feet with a cocky grin.
"You see them claw marks?" He asked gesturing to the very prominent ones over his left shoulder with a tilt of his head, "I got that from one-uh them Essyrian dragon riders dragons.. Smaller than a normal dragon, wit' wicked claws an' vicious tempers. Got me good 'for I brought him an' his rider down, still had t' keep fightin' 'til just before the sun set! Carryin' m' shield an' once that got ruined, usin' m' axe.." He shook his head, still grinning as he kept the darkness out of his thoughts and thought only of the pride, "We fought 'em to a man, killed th' whole lot of 'em. Wasn't 'til that night, when the fightin' was over, I even got someone t' look at it. Said without magic, wouldn't use m' arm again.."
As if to prove his point, Cauwyn raised both his arms up forcing the two of them back together. He released her hands however an his legs stilled as his arms came down to wrap around her waist, holding her tightly against him, "An' look how that turned out, princess?" And with that he leaned in, pressing his lips to hers again.
Katahnia laughed along with him and simply danced, and was whisked away into the kiss. It made her dizzy and hot, and she rather liked it and was laughing again the moment she could breath.
But as he pointed out the claw marks, she looked at him with concern, hands gently touching over them before looking into his eyes. "It must've hurt." but did it matter? For he was pulling her in close and kissing her again. Laughing through his lips, she finally broke away, her entire body shaking.
"I suppose you could say it's working just fine!" she gave a shake of her head, laughing again as she looked up into his eyes, a hand moving to cradle his cheek.
"Oh, Cauwyn," she said , after a time, leaning forward to meet his lips against as she pressed herself real close. And then gave him another kiss as she softly moaned. "You'd best be careful, my knight."s he told him gently, softly, even a little bit playfully as her mouth hitched open in a smile. "If you keep up all of these antics, I might find myself falling in love." Her eyes sparkled at the thought, her body warming, heart fluttering as the sparks of flames with gentle lust and love were evidently simmering in her eyes.
"And then what will all of the other boys say? You'd be fending off more than just monsters, I dare say!" she gave a laugh, pulling away , though really, just pulling him as she guided him towards the bath.
"Come now, cease these kisses or you'll never get into the bath to clean up!" She laughed playfully, still tugging him forward as she nearly tripped over her own too feet and gave a laugh. "And once you're finished I can brush your hair!" she stated proudly, green eyes glistening whit that playful mirth.
OOC: D'awwww, They're too cute.
TOO BAD THEY WILL BE TORTURED MORE LATER BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA
"Mmm.. Not the only thing workin' just fine.." Cauwyn's words were heavy and slow, heavy with pleasure as he released a pleased moan into their kiss and once it was broken, he only wanted more. The feeling of her body against him, the way she shook with laughter, her smell, her kiss. It was all almost too much for a man to bare! Honestly, how did real knights do it? He could feel his own fingers, his body, trembling with need and they were so close to the bed.. It would be easy, he knew, to take from her what he wanted and for a brief moment that old part of him came back. He had won the fight for her, he had won her. She was his.
He shook away such thoughts, made easier now with the help of his conscience, and made the nigh painful effort to pull his lips away and break the cycle of kisses, each of his own growing hungrier with need. But then she was pulling him away from the bed, probably for the best he thought, until they wound up near the tub.
"Th' other boys," Cauwyn said as they finally parted enough that he could focus attention on clearer thoughts and words, "will find a man with a sword.."
It was then that other things she had said began to sink in, mostly as he went about kicking the back of his booted foot with his bare one, pawing at it until his boot began to come free. He felt his cheeks flush at the words she had used, at the look in her eyes. What was he doing? He was a nobody, even less than a commoner. Discarded human rubbish from the tundra that now found himself trading kisses with a Lady! A duchess even! Though her duchy was no more, it did not remove the royalty from her bloodlines, right? That was how that worked, it was in the blood? What was in the blood that heated his body? Nothing so noble, he knew..
As his boot came free his ankle buckled and his thighs, who had been more taxed than he would have admitted from the dancing, gave out. He stumbled snatching for the edge of the tub, but it was too low, and so his hand found purchase on the next best thing. He went down on his back hard with a grunt that drove the air from him and his secure grip of Katahnia's arm pulled her down on top of him.
Cauwyn winced in pain and arched his back, gasping for a moment before air filled his lungs. And then, with tears welling up in his eyes, his lips split into a broad smile and he began laughing! He threw his arms around her and laughed as he struggled to regain his breath.
"Kia's cunt! Oh, princess.." He gasped, panting practically between breaths, "I didn't hurt ya did I?" Even as he asked the serious question he couldn't stop from laughing as pain shot through his body from everywhere at once!
Katahnia let out a noise as they fell, and then another noise as she landed ontop of him!
She would have been concerned, but then his body began to shake with laughter and her face blossomed into a smilel, laughing right along with him. At his question, she made herself right at home ontop of his body, crossing her legs at the calf; one hand pressed acroass his chest, the other, elbow turned, palm to cheek as she stared down at him in wonder. He was really quite comfortable to lay across, really! Might as well make herself at home!
"I'm just fine, thank you for asking, but I do recall a certain man telling me he was well enough to dance. And here we are.. hrmm?" she made a noise through her nose, giggling even as she looked at him. "It looks like you're worse off than you thought." Though despite that, it seemed she wasn't going anywhere anytime fast as she admired him, her body on top of his, his hair wild, features hard...
If there ever was a man to be seen, it was certainly him- and she was certainly enjoying the new, raw sensations that burned within her belly and loins, heart tumbling, as she remained perched and playful upon him, gently kicking at her feet.
"Are you going to get your bath now?" she asked with a pout, fingers traipsing up his chest bare chest.
And despite the sweat and blood all over him.. ahh.. he smelled divine.
As she perched herself on top of him like some kind of couch, Cauwyn only laughed more. The feel of her as she pressed against him was enough that any discomfort he might have felt was little more than a far off nag in the back of his mind. He smiled up at her, the way her hair spilled down around her face and a single hand left her body to run his fingers through delightful strawberry blond locks. A rather contented sigh left his lips as he shifted comfortably beneath her, reveling in the way it felt to have her body atop his and only slightly disappointed he was wearing pants still!
"Nah," Cauwyn said with a small shrug, his hand still on her back starting a slow, rotating circle that grew ever wider, "I think I'm quite comfortable here, yeah? In fact, maybe I should just bring th' bath t' us?" He gave her a playful smirk as he hooked the heel of his foot on the edge of the tub. He gave it a sharp tug which, of course, did nothing. The heavy tub, laden with water as it was, was not going anywhere.. He frowned slightly and then laughed again as a broad smile grew, "Or maybe not.."
Cauwyn lay there starring up at her. He wanted only to lay there, with her above him. Well, there was more he wanted and Cauwyn shifted again with a small, pleasurable sigh elicited by the way she laid against his groin. With no small amount of effort he pushed himself up onto one elbow, allowing his hand to continue traveling her backside, and pressed his mouth to hers. The cut on his lip, along with the others, had already smeared a bit of blood on her face, but to Cauwyn this only added some bit of savageness to her beauty.
Katahnia giggled at his failed attempt and shook her head.
"You're going to break your foot trying that!" But still, she only giggled more, and felt her eyes haze over at the sensation of him gently feeling across the small of her back. She let out a gentle breath when he moved to lean up into her, lips meeting again as she moaned, kissing him back, tasting his affections and blood.
It was all centered around a wildness she could not contain, as she cupped her hands around his face and pressed her body against his. Though her legs were still hung together, the need inside his pants pressing against her gave way to motion, just the slightest, and most awkward of gestures, as she gasped and met her lips to his again and drank him in, feeling the need to slip her legs around him, body melting over him in a natural motion to breed. Though as she did this, her breath sucked in, she gasped, pulling away from his kisses as the raw emotion welled up inside her almost to the point it could not be contained.
To feel this way with a man, so wild, and yet, so right, she knew not what to make of it, eyes half lidded, barely peering into his as she continued to kiss and gasp and moan and curl her fingers into his hair, not quite sure what was possible any more as her body pressed again, ever so slightly as she released his lips, and a hot breath across them as she moaned.
"Cauwyn,"s he spoke his name needingly, breathlessly. She closed her eyes and moaned, lips to his cheek, his ear, then neck. "Mmm.. Cauwyn." It was all that she could do, grip his hair, taste his lips and let their body move. It seemed today would be a first for many things that were yet to come....
Gentle had never been a word used to describe Cauwyn, but in this he was nothing but. His hand roamed her body as he propped himself up with his other. Their lips striking together for hot, long, passionate moments before parting for breath. Each time hotter, each time harder, and each time with more need than the last.
It seemed he could no longer control himself beneath her. What had started as only slight movements, little glimpses of far off possibilities of pleasure, now began to take on a life of their own when she too moved into need. As her legs fell around him, Cauwyn felt a burning need pass through him and down into his pants. This new brain began to take control of all those silly things like the beating of his heart, his breathing, and the movement of his own body so that his real mind could focus solely on the pleasures of having her against him. Of having her lips against his, and then against his neck and cheek and ear.
Cauwyn released a loud, gutteral moan as he arched up against her, grinding with a fevered need. He moved the arm holding him up, lowering them both back to the floor, and allowed it to join it's twin. Together they moved south, finding purchase halfway between her hips and her rear. His grip hardened and he pulled her hard against him as he ground his own throbbing need up into her. Even through the clothing it was almost too much for him. A soft gasp escaped him as this along with her lips upon his neck drove him mad with desire. He knew that he could not be so gentle, so kind, for much longer. The need to tear away the last remnants of that dress which clung so stubbornly to her body was becoming too much!
OOC: I fixed the labeling on this thread since it's um, obviously full of mature content now XD
but yeah, just another trigger warning there be a young man and woman um,. trying to have 'fun' in the current thread XD
IC:
Had Katahnia known they were trying to make love through their clothes, she might have been opposed to all such activities. But in the same breath, she was young and completely naive to a lot of what they were doing- considering she had never given thought to the wants and desires she had toward men. And now that she was sampling it, she found herself intoxicated by it's heat.
Her body moved natural with his, gasping and retorting to his grinds with her own. Her body, groin and cheeks in particular, giving way to tremendous amounts of heat. Her lips could not cease meeting to his, breath could not stop panting, body ever moving, hands exploring the muscles across his bare arms and chest as need met to radical ambitions as Katahnia's hot tongue suddenly snaked into his mouth as fingers laced into the hair at the back of his skull.
OOC: TV-M content ahead!
IC:
As their tongues met Cauwyns passions seemed to alight a new! His hands released her and his arms wrapped around her body. With one grunt of effort given in their kiss he twisted his shoulders and hips to turn them both, his hands gently cradling her head as he lowered her to the floor. With one last lingering kiss Cauwyn pulled his head back and opened his eyes, smiling down at her briefly before he was at it again.
This time his mouth lowered onto her neck. His teeth raked across the flesh as his tongue slid slow and gentle across her soft skin. While one hand held her head off the wooden floor, his fingers like hers curling in her hair, his other hand ran along her body down to her leg. With a fistful of torn skirt in his hand he pushed the cloth up to her hip, exposing the softness of her leg to the rough calloused palm and fingers of his hand as they played over her exposed thigh.
OOC: M for kids being terrible at the inn XD
and sorry this is short- I'm trying to clean my house but nOoOoO, I keep getting distracted with these naughty posts XP
IC:
Katahnia felt a rush of heat within her, pooling between her legs as her body moved to the floor, his ontop. There was a sense of thrill to suddenly lay beneath him, his body powerful, strong, wonderful upon hers as her fingers reached across, feeling the texture and warmth of his back.
In that moment, every inch of him was sacred to her, as there was much need and a rush to explore. Though as she felt her skirts hiked up, she gasped, tensed even, then felt her lashes flutter and lightly close as his hand touched the smooth skin of her leg, just inches away from the deep heat in the center of her body.
OOC: Maturity abound!! And I know, I needs to go to sleep! I have to be up in a few hours for another long drive, so this may be my last post.. but we'll see!
IC:
There was only a brief moment of pause when he gasped. A subtle fear fluttering through him to see if it was one of pleasure or fear on her part. When no protest came, only the feeling of her hands now exploring him, he continued to lavish her neck and shoulder with sweet suckling kisses.
His hand roamed over her leg. From the line of her underclothes down to the crux of her knee and back. The feeling was like silk given flesh. Pure and soft and lean without a scar or mar upon it. His body, in smooth languid strides, rubbed against her as he yearned to feel more. To be as deep within her as possible. To bury himself inside her and never come out again.
Eventually Cauwyns kisses made their way up her neck to her ear, where he nibbled and played briefly among her soft flesh. Then he was making his way lower trailing wet kisses down her neck to the hollow of her throat and then lower still. His hand now making progress too as his lovingly gentle strokes over soft flesh moved ever inward until his hips turned and his fingers pressed against that sweet spot of hotness concealed beneath the damnable cloth of her underclothes. He pressed gently and then began a slow, gentle rub to prepare her for what would come.
OOC: Still mature XD
Someone needs to dump ice water on them- OH WAIT
IC:
The kisses were intense, a whole other experience that she reveled in and tickled, chilled her with thrills to the bone.H er heart was pumping in her ears and for a moment, she had forgotten that she was a lady. It wasn't until she felt the gentle prodding between her legs that she gasped, surprised not only by the wonderful burning sensation it provided, but because it was only then she realized what was going on.
"C-cauwyn!" her voice came out desperate as she clung to him, even afraid. "I- I'm... we c-can't.."
And then the door swung open, the old cow that ran the place plowing into the room and announced. "Theys was sayin' your water might be getting cold so I's told Herald to check out of liberty and for us to bring you the second batch of clean linens-" but then she paused, eyes going wide, and so did Harold's as they both stared at the pair on the floor, as it appeared Cauwyn's hand was shoved all the way up the lady's skirts.
Katahnia gave way a blush, screaming suddenly as she pushed away form Cauwyn, slamming her legs shut in a heated breath.
"Well now, sorry t' bother you both!" she said, eyeing the pair as Kathani's entire body turned to red.
"Come Harold!" she noticed her son staring and grabbed him by the tear, pulling him away. "'cuse our rudeness. We's be on our way." and they closed the door.
Ba-dum.
THe sound of her heart, it was now near in her throat as Katahnia was pressed up against the wall, knees and hands drawn to her chest,as she found hot tears suddenly piercing her eyes at just what happened- and at what could have been.
OOC: Probably the last of the M... and, just how many people were horribly scarred for life in that one moment? I can count two at least..
IC:
Her worried words only slowed his hand, but did not remove it completely. His lips had just found the tops of her breasts when he raised his head, smiling softly into her eyes as he whispered gently, "Shh, I figured.. It'll be okay, trust me.." His other hand had moved from beneath her head to her chest, cupping one breast gently through the cloth of her dress as his mouth moved down on the outline of her nipple.
And then everything went to hell! Cauwyn's head snapped up like a child caught reaching in the cookie jar, so to speak.. Eye wide with surprise as the old crone and her son stormed into the room. He began the slow process of pulling his hand away, as though going slow might not attract attention, when Katahnia's legs snapped shut like a well oiled bear trap as she scooted away from him.
Cauwyn was left kneeling on the floor with his mouth open in surprise, a raging hard-on in his pants, slightly damp fingers and now as the old woman and her child left, tepid bath water! His shoulders fell in defeat and he knelt there limply for a moment before looking to Kat.
Instantly it was obvious the mood had written a letter, found a stool and some rope, hung it's self and now only lingered dead in the air. He sighed and crawled toward her, stopping before he could even come in range of touching her if only for her comfort, "Hey.. Are... are you alright? Do ya, I don't know, wanna talk 'bout this or somethin'?" Because that was what he wanted to do right then, ignore everything he was feeling, all the urges that in him had hardly died down, and talk about her! Apparently being a knight was harder than Cauwyn thought!
Kathania could not help herself. Tears began to sparkle in her eyes the moment they were alone, falling in gentle, slow hot rivers. She grit her teeth, turning away, feeling so terribly embarrassed.
Embarrassed and ashamed.
Had those two not have showed up..
what would have happened?
She turned away, sobbing and holding a hand over her mouth.
"I'm.. I'm sorry Cauwyn.. we... we can't do this I- we...we shouldn't have.." and she closed her eyes, more tears spilling down her cheeks. "Cauwyn, I'm still a virgin." And she was so afraid in that moment that she had been close to losing it that she couldn't even look at him. She had allowed them to get so far and carried away in that moment that propriety had all been but forgotten.
Cauwyn was somewhat confused by her reaction. Though his parents had been Connlaothian, Cauwyn grew up mostly in the tundra and not in the nicest of circles. The idea of virginity being kept until marriage wasn't something he was familiar with. Sure, he had heard it was how nobles were, but who really expected someone to live like that?
"I know.." He said in a hushed tone, scooting closer to her. He frowned, not at all pleased to see her crying, "I know, but princess, look..." He sighed, trying to think how best to calm what he saw as fear of the unknown, "it ain't that bad, really. I mean, it hurts a little yeah an' ya'll bleed some.." His face twisted as he realized he wasn't making it sound nearly as enticing as it was, "but I promise ya it'll feel good after a bit.. I know you're a virgin, but Kat ya gotta trust me, it isn't th' end of th' world.."
He gently placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, not sure just what to say. He had come to consider Katahnia a strong woman, and seeing her this afraid of a little pain was very confusing to him. Maybe her parents never explained it to her before she encased herself in that crystal. He wasn't sure how that worked, if the mother explained it or the father, but in either case it was clear no one had told poor Katahnia how good sex could be after the initial shock of it..
Kathania kept her eyes averted of his, feeling ashamed as hot tears slipped down her face.
"Cauwyn,"s he said after a time, lifting her face so her eyes could meet to his. "We can't. We just can't." She shook her head. "I know it might seem silly but... I was brought up so that a lady was only to give herself, her body, as a gift to her husband, pure on their wedding night and if we.." she blushed, trembling slightly as she dropped her gaze.
"And well,"s he shuffled uneasily. "I can't even claim I've even done anything like what we... we just did before."s he pressed her mouth closed, eyes studying the floor, feeling pathetic to have to explain this. They did come from different worlds...
but she still could not fully bring herself to just break all of the rules in just one day. Even if she was curious, even if she felt strongly for him-
What was wrong with her? And if they had not been caught!? Her entire body heated over the idea, but then guilt soon rushed in and tightened it's grip upon her heart.
"We... we should probably take it slow for some time, Cauwyn." she said, finally rising off the floor and looked down at him with a frown. "I'm.. just confused." And also ashamed she had almost succumbed to the raw emotions of her hormones. Cauwyn had influenced her quite a bit, and she owed him so much- but...
well, she just wasn't ready to accept giving her body over to him just yet. She was still a lady at heart.
From where he knelt on the floor Cauwyn just watched her with a look of shock and remorse. What kind of life did nobility lead? To make her feel so bad about something like that? Something people were supposed to do? He wasn't angry, he couldn't be, he was just sad. Sad that her lifestyle had screwed with her head so much.
He nodded, slowly, and pushed himself back up to his feet with the use of the wall. His legs shook and his body was suddenly very, very sore. He put a gentle hand on her shoulder and offered her a weak smile before he limped his way over to the bed. He gathered up his tunic and threw it on, followed by his weapons belt.
"Alright, Kat, alright.." He nodded again, looking back to her as he tightened his belt, "I ain't gonna say I understand, but if'n that's what ya want then least I c'n do is oblige ya." He started back across the room, stopping in front of the young woman. He made no effort to meet her eyes as he took her hand in his, pressing a copper piece into it, "Tell that kid when 'e comes back t' watch our horse, yeah? Trust me, it'll never be safer.." Cauwyn offered a weak grin and then turned and headed for the door, his fingers trailing through the cool bath water as he crossed to the door. Cauwyn stopped and looked back over his shoulder, "I'm gonna go tell 'em t' refill the bath, you take one first yeah? I just need t' walk off.." He glanced down and then back over at her, flashing again a sheepish if not somewhat sad smile, "I just gotta go for a walk. It'll give ya time t' bathe an' get ready for bed, without me 'round, yeah?"
Cauwyn opened the door, not waiting for an argument or even a response, and with a hand on the wall for strength followed the steps down into the tavern portion of the inn. People were still drinking and dancing and he instantly spied the old woman leaning over the bar to talk with a customer in hushed secret tones. When their eyes met, Cauwyn's face became a black mask of hard lines and edges, his voice flat and somewhat commanding, "Refill the bathwater, yeah? Hot. An' then make sure no one disturbs th' young woman, yeah?" His voice had just as much edge to it as the sword on his hip.
"Sir, we're sorry if'n we-" The old crone started to apologize but was cut off as Cauwyn's fist slammed into the side of the wall. The music died off quick and he could feel everyones eyes on him as he spoke, his voice dropping dangerously low though it still carried the whole of the inn, "Refill. Bathwater. Now."
And with that he continued down the steps, past the onlookers and out the front door for his walk. The music started up once again as did the idle chatter and young Harold jumped up with the opportunity to refill the bath.
OOC: Some maturish themes ahead- just a girl lamenting on life and love~
Katahnia felt guilty, and when left to alone to bathe, she took her time, lamenting over what had happened.
Did it matter if she had let Cauwyn and her make love?
She was no longer a lady, and well, he seemed rather crestfallen over her sudden decision. But , in truth, she was not mentally prepared for it, even as her body was. It was her first time really exploring that alley with a boy and well... it was definitely rather exciting and intoxicating and well, if it were to be any one, it might as well be him. Though she feared losing her virginity, well.. perhaps they could talk about that if the occasion were to ever arise again.
Her cheeks burned at the thought.
No, how could she entertain such thoughts? As a lady, it was absurd, but as a person, it seemed to feel right. The only problem was she was very cemented in her tradition- and tradition rung true. It was one of the few things she could cling to from her parents upbringing> If not her name, land and title, than what? Even if she could claim her title as a 'duchess'- women held no real significant power in this country...
and she began to wonder if she should even stay in Connlaoth at all.
THe dreamer that she was, she began to see a life pictured before her, her and Cauwyn on the road, him, her teacher, her knight and they- spending time- even making love against a fire's glow beneath a bed of pine. she smiled. She hoped that was how they would do it first, and sighed as she looked around at the shabby tavern room.
The bath did wonders to bring her back to her own senses and propriety but even still.. she felt a thrill to think that.. she could have just had sex. But one thing still was missing-
To her it wasn't sex. To her it was making love- something held up on a pedstal, to be beautiful and refined-
what they had done well..
it was almost a wonderful sin! Dirty even in it's hastiness and yet...
The question still begged..
Cauwyn was obviously found of her...
But what about love?
Did she love him? And he of her? And how so? The two had only just met.
She was out of the bath now, towel wrapped around her form as she sat on the straw bed and began to brush out her hair. It felt good to be clean, good to run a brush through her hair and feel human again. THough she began to wonder what had become of Cauwyn, she slippedback into her tattered dress and found herself staring at her reflection in a dirty mirror.
She had always known she was beautiful. It came with prideful breeding, and she believed, love. But was it only a pretty face, a nice body that Cauwyn was after? or something more?
He did oblige her when she said 'no' and 'stop'- ad again, her cheeks reddened a little at the memory to refuse him.
Was it fair to do that to a man who has done so much to her? But seh, still very much a prude, despite being a very craving late teenager, just gave way to a sigh and dropped back onto the bed- feeling anxious and excited and worried all at once as the feelings pooled and curled and churned within her body.
Cauwyn...
Cauwyn.....
Do you love me, Cauwyn?
Would you protect me, treasure me, hold me tight? Make love to me, teach me, show me and let you be my light?
His walk took him around the town, past many candle lit windows. Twice the guards stopped him, asking what nature a man such as him had in their little town. One man had been too fat to fit into his simple chainmail shirt and the other a scrawny man near Cauwyns age who looked too nervous with a blade to even shave. Both times Cauwyn had been polite though, given the men no grief and told them the truth. He had been at the inn, won a fight, been rejected by a lady and was now walking off said rejection. Both times he had been given smirks and knowing nods, a pat on the back and sent along his way.
He had entertained the idea of simply seeking out the girl Miranda for his needs. A woman scorned was dangerous indeed, but Cauwyn felt he knew her kind well enough. A few polite words and he could have had her in the stall of their ramshackle barn without trouble. Those times that Cauwyn asked, he had seldom been refused by a woman, though asking had for most of his life been times few and far between. Wooing women, the pursuit and games of courtship had never really been taught to him. In honesty, such ideas had been taught to him as being the ideals of the foolish, it was for those too weak to simply get what they desired.
Bryn had been married and had children and when Cauwyn was younger filled his head with ideas of love and devotion, but even that had been soiled as he grew older. The half-elf turning bitter and resentful in his time away from them, in seeing Cauwyn age and knowing he would never see the same of his own children.
By the time Cauwyn returned to the inn, he was hardly in better shape than when he had left. At least mentally, the physical 'problem' had dissipated before the glow of the inn had even been out of sight. How close had he been with Katahnia? Would he have done to her what he had in the past with a woman? No, Cauwyn knew the answer was no. He couldn't force himself upon her any more than he could have struck her down. It was the question of why that now haunted him as he slid up to the bar and ordered drinks to help easy his troubled mind.
What if she hated him? What if she said she never wanted to see him again? He knew it would hurt as just the thoughts caused his chest to tighten. Made his stomach feel as if it were tying its self in knots. But why? Why was it different with her? Cauwyn looked for the answer at the bottom of his mug. And four pints later he had still found no answer other than a light-headed dizziness. He had drank in silence at least, thankful that he hadn't had to explain himself or answer questions. Sure the old man had came over and sat next to him, but he had said nothing and after a bit left Cauwyn to his drinking, alone as it should be.
He called for Harold to replace the bath water again before the end of his third mug and had been halfway through his fourth when the kid returned. Finishing it off he stood, weak and stumbling, and with the help of the wall made his way up stairs to their room.
Cauwyn said nothing. He couldn't even bring himself to look at Katahnia as she lay on the bed, a hazy yet beautiful outline through the thin and cracking privacy screen. He undressed near the tub, joints creaking and popping in protest as sore muscles ached and burned. Cauwyn pulled his sword and leaned it against the tub, an old habit, before he stepped into the water and slid down into its warm embrace.
When Cauwyn returned, she froze. She wished to feign sleep, and when he made no gesture towards her, she kept still and just listened to him until she realized he was safe and secure inside the bath. Rising, slowly, quietly, she peered over at him form. Her mind, still a dizzy confused mess, did little to give her the strength she needed. But she wanted to talk to him- for she owed him at least that as she approached quietly, walking on the tips of her toes.
Once she reached the privacy screen, she hunched down, turned away and finally spoke to him.
"Cauwny?" she held her breath a moment, feeling her heart surge and steel inside her breast. "Cauwyn.. I... I'm sorry if I've.. I've offended you or lead you on in this manner." she felt her voice crack a little, so she cleared her throat to push the tightened, drying sensation away.
"I've.. just never felt or been with a man in this way before that I-" her voice dropped short as she made an agitated breath, then lowered her gaze. "I just don't know what to make of us, what to make of this, or of my life." She sighed, feeling frustrated as her breast still ached. "So I. guess I'm simply trying to apologize that you've somehow become stuck in the middle of all of these dilemmas in my life."
Content to soak a bit in the bath, Cauwyn leaned his head back against the edge of the porcelain tub and simply relaxed letting the warm water sooth at least some of his bodies aches and pains. When Katahnia rose from the bed, Cauwyn opened one eye to peer over at her. Though he knew it wasn't the case, a very large part of him hoped she came over to the tub. When she didn't, he released a soft sigh and closed his eye again, listening to her stumble through her apology.
"Look, Katahnia," He struggled a bit, but managed to keep any edge out of his tone. He didn't know why he was mad, because if someone were to ask he could think of no reason to be. He tried focusing on that and found that despite some guilt, it helped him relax to a more gentle tone as he breathed out a heavier sigh, "I'm not angry with ya, yeah? Ya got every right, an' I mean it, t' do with your body as ya please.. An', I guess, I'm sorry if'n I made ya feel like ya shoulda done somethin' ya didn't want to.."
Both eyes opened slowly and Cauwyn reached for the soap, making small splashing sounds as he started to wash his body, "The truth is, its pro'lly more my fault than yours. I shouldn't 'ave put ya in that position t' begin with. I just, well, I guess I just was thinkin' more with m' cock than I was my brain, yeah? Not so long ago, if'n we had met an' been in similar situation, well, I pro'lly woulda done somethin' we both regret.."
Cauwyn sunk down in the water lower to rub away the soap and also to give himself time. Time to think about what he was doing, what he was saying and just how much he wanted to admit to the girl. She already probably thought he was a monster, did he really want to complete that image for her?
"I... well, I'm sorry. For puttin' ya in that situation an' makin' ya feel bad, yeah?" He dipped underwater where he could let out a frustrated sigh in peace and then came back up, wiping the hair from his eyes and water from his face in one stroke, "I like ya, an' I want ya, an ya know that.. But, ya know, don't think I'll hurt ya, yeah? I wouldn't ever do that, not to you, yeah?"
He sighed again and then forced a weak smile, looking over at her outline through the screen, "I might not be much of a knight, but I promise I will protect ya. Even from folk like me.." And with that he began scrubbing at the dried blood on his face.
She turned around, touching lightly at the outline of his silhouette against the screen before lowering her gaze as she digested his words. What he said brought a warmth to her cheek and heart as she sighed.
"I just.. feel so silly for it all,"s he admitted, sighing before turning away craning her neck to look at the ceiling. "I suppose I only ever heard about what men and women do, as we had done.." (or might have done), and her cheeks turned more pink. "But I... well.. thank you." She turned to look back at his silhouette again, catching, perhaps, the color of his eyes throw a faint crack in the screen.
"I suppose had I started to fall for a lesser man, I might find myself even more disagreeable than I am right now."s he afforded him a grin, though he probably could not see it through the screen.
"After all, you have been recently knighted into my court." Her smile reached her eyes as she let out a gentle breathy noise from her nose.
"You.. really have done so much for me, Cauwyn. You have no idea how I must feel. I feel as though I owe you my life yet I..."
her voice went away, back now pressing against the side of the screen as she sat, and sighed, drawing her legs close to her chest. "Yet, I feel I owe you even more than that, but I am sorry if it is something I do not feel comfortable yet to give. We.. were... going into territory I do not know, and I must admit, it scares me." she frowned. "And I also must admit I believe that my husband should have first rights to my body. I'm... I'm sorry for that, Cauwyn. It was just the way I was raised."
He scrubbed away at his face with his hands, building up a heavy lather of soap before he dunked once more into the tub. He scrubbed again, cleaning his face, and then came back to the surface with a heavy pleased sigh. It felt like he had removed a mask of filth allowing his face to truly move again. He also had heard everything she had said, and offered her a small smile though he doubt she could see it.
"Well, there are plenty o' things we can do that don't mean ya gotta give up your body, not like that at least.." Cauwyn couldn't help himself as he snickered at his own half joke. There were plenty of things they could do, true, but he knew Katahnia would be even more mortified by those if he had to explain them. So almost instantly his hands came out of the water in a gesture of surrender he hoped she could see through the veil, "Kiddin'! Just kiddin' princess, can't blame a knight for tryin'..."
Cauwyn cleared his throat then and started to get out of the tub when a thought struck him. While he never paid it any extra mind before aside from just getting it wet, Katahnia always seemed to be messing with his hair. Her and that damn brush. Reaching for the soap again, Cauwyn settled back into the tub as he began to work up a lather once more.
"Honestly, princess, your right though.." He admitted as he worked soap into his hair, "I don't much understand where you come from or how ya were raised. It all seems pretty foreign t' me, an' some of it a little silly, but I guess it's the same for you when ya think o' me, yeah? An', well, I ain't never been married or nothin', never much planned on it or a family really. Seemed kinda cruel t' do that t' someone ya cared about, lyin' to 'em about takin' care of 'em just to go off and get your fool self killed over somethin' ya don't even know nothin' about.. But, I imagine that, if'n ya were a noble sort of fellow who ain't ever been with a woman either, it would be a lot better t' have a woman who ain't never been with a man for your first time s'well.."
That part did sort of make sense, or at least it was starting to for Cauwyn. Really, if you were a virgin and she wasn't then how terrible would you look? No man wanted that. But then, if neither of you were virgins it wouldn't be such an issue would it? Maybe it was because some king or duke or something sometime just was really terrible in bed, so he made it so everyone had to be virgins so the girls wouldn't know any better. Yeah, that made sense.
"An princess, I know I've joked 'bout you owin' me a reward an' all.." His cheeks turned a bit red at the memory, if only because at the time he hadn't known it would have turned to this. Or just how upsetting those kinds of things could have been, "But I don't want ya thinkin' I really expect that, yeah? It was all just a joke..mostly, an' honestly ya don't owe me nothing'. Hells, ya already made me a knight, that's far more than most ever done for me.."
Kathania gave a silent huff at his first joke, but was smiling in the end as she pressed her cheek to her knee.
"Yes, and what a gallant knight you are!" she turned around, staring, sparkly eyed at the screen and touched it lightly, wishing she could kiss him, but knowing it was hardly proper.
"So are you almost done yet?" she inquired playfully. "Or do you plan to make your lady wait for all hours? I still think it's perfectly acceptable for us to kiss, mind you, and I would at least like to give you one before bed."
"Almost!" Cauwyn called back with a bit more excitement than he had planned! While a kiss may have been nothing compared to where they had been before physically, it meant so much more on a different level. It meant that she didn't hate him. And more importantly, it meant she trusted him enough to let him come close again.
He dunked back under the water, scrubbing the soap out of his hair as best he could, and then finally surfaced with sigh of relief. As he climbed out of the bathtub Cauwyn snatched up the last clean towel and began toweling himself off. He stretched and bent and toweled until he was as limber and dry as he could be, his hair matted down to his head and hanging just to his eyes which he then brushed away with his hand.
Wrapping the towel around his waist, it was a bit smaller than he would have liked but still covered the important parts so long as he held it in the back, Cauwyn walked around the privacy sheet smiling sheepishly as he looked her over. It was as if the last few hours had been weeks since he had seen her. He felt his heart beat pick up and his cheeks redden.
"I believe," He cleared his throat to keep his voice from cracking, "someone said something' 'bout a kiss?"
Turning, her face went red as she gave a start.
"Cauwyn!" She looked down at his towel, cheeks reddening even more before her eyes shot back to his but she had to laugh at his expression. "Really! You're.. you're only wearing a towel!" she exclaimed as she slowly picked herself up off the ground with a shake of her head.
"Really now, you expect me to offer you a kiss like that?" she gave him a sheepish smile, chin lowered, eyes raised and hands clasped behind her back.
She would have given him one anyways, but liked to hide behind the excuse of some propriety, after all, he looked rather handsome and attractive freshly scented from the bath with dribbles of water still spilling from his hair, and the idea of him only wearing a towel made her blush even more, eyes needing to avert away.
"Don't act like your not impressed, princess.." Cauwyn chided with a smirk at her reaction to the towel. Honestly it hadn't even crossed his mind how inappropriate it may have been, so focused on getting to her and that kiss. Now, in hindsight, his cheeks started to redden.
"I can't just put m' dirty clothes back on.." He said hopefully, stepping closer to her. His eyes roamed her again, the delightful fall of her tattered dress. He almost hated suggesting what he would, but it was only right, "An, if'n ya want, I'll go an see if they got a nightgown ya can barrow.. I know yer dress aint near as dirty as my clothes, but.." He shrugged, "It may be nice t' have somethin' else t' wear.."
He stepped closer still, now only inches away. The towel was, admittedly, a poor choice as even just this close to her for so short of a time was already giving him a reaction. He tried to ignore it, his fist closing tighter around the towel to keep it pressed against him. He bent slightly forward at the waist, knowing that if they hugged together in this kiss, she was sure to notice!
OOC: Oh, Cauwyn, is that a tent in your towel? XD
IC:
Katahnia gave somewhat of an offended gasp, though she was still smiling, eyes roaming his form just a little bit appreciatively, a little bit obviously before those sea green eyes returned to his. She jutted out her chin a little, but then shied away, eyes averting bashfully as her cheeks heated to a more riper shade of pink.
"A nightgown sounds like it could be comfortable," She said, still keeping her face and eyes averting, and doing a bad job at keeping her smile and laughter tucked him as dimples cut into her cheeks, sparkles still danced across her eyes. Really! She would not relinquish a kiss up so easily! Even if well... she had said she wanted to! Really, he *was* wearing a towel!
OOC: Indeed, lol! It's the pleats! Makes a, uh, optical illusion...They're, um, rather unflattering.. I was going to take them back! Nothing to see here, just walking off a situation! Don't act like you're not impressed!
IC:
When she turned away, even ever so slightly, Cauwyns smile turned into a sly grin. He moved forward, his body pressing lightly against her even if briefly, to steal a quick peck placed upon her cheek. When he stepped back though, eyes sparkly with mischief and grin nearly ear to ear he quickly exclaimed, "That don't count!"
He jumped back even farther, giving a slight bow at his waist, "Then a nightgown you shall have princess! No challenge is too hard, if'n a kiss will be my reward!" Cauwyn was still grinning ear to ear as he turned and shuffled toward the door. The towel, for it's part, covered most things though where it split behind him showed a few glimpses of his firm...assets. And a particularly pale arrow pock mark on one cheek.
At the door he through it opened and took a few steps down the stairs, obviously no where near as bashful as Katahnia when it came to nudity or propriety. He stopped halfway down, though by now most of the crowed had died off except for those heavy drinkers who would sit quietly until the tavern its self closed and they were chased away.
Both Hilde and Miranda stopped behind the bar and stared openly up at Cauwyn, their position below giving them quite a view up the towel. Good enough that, despite her earlier outrage, even Miranda's cheeks reddened at the sight.
"I'm afraid my lady is in need of night clothes," Cauwyn said, grinning at their reaction and obviously pleased with himself, "if'n one of you two would be so kind as t' fetch her some? Or at least be willing to loan something clean for her to sleep in? You will be fairly compensated.."
Neither woman moved at first, but young Harold came forward with a hand over his eyes and a flat look on the young boys face. Beneath his arm he held a package, which he then offered up to Cauwyn, "Master Rhine sent these over.. Said 'is wife made 'im, thought ya'll might be in need.."
"Really?" Cauwyn blinked, not sure who this Rhine fellow was, but took the package anyways. It was a bit difficult to secure the package under his arm while pulling free the note secured beneath the twine. Cauwyn frowned, unable to read it and then nodding his thanks returned to their room.
While his brief moment in public had... softened him some, it seemed that simply being near Katahnia brought his blood to bare in the most uncomfortable of ways, considering his highest hopes for the evening would be a kiss.
Cauwyn sat the package down on the bed and then held out the note toward Katahnia. Now it was his turn to look away, cheeks reddened and somewhat ashamed, "I can't... well, these came wit' a note. From that old fella I think, an' 'is wife.."
As he leaned in close, her cheeks flushed, body tensing as she peered up at him, smiling and giving a short laugh when he informed her that 'didn't count'. Shaking her head, she pressed her lips together and sighed through her nose as her smile grew wider. So as she waited for her knight to return, she paced about inside the room, recalling the moments and memories they had already shared together since she had met him-
The time he shows her how to make the fire.. to teach her how to fight.. holding her close when she cried... holding her close as they dance.
She shivered at the recollection, hugging her arms around herself tightly as she gave a light sway of her hips and smiled, tucking in her lower lip that only made her cheeks swell and simple more deeply at the thought.
However, by the time he had returned, her expression was radiant as she smiled, her entire being glowing just for him. As the box was produced, she blinked and lifted up the note and unfolded it, her eyes going over the words...
"To the man who won a fight to win his girl, Signed The Rhines." She made a face, it twisting curiously as she turned to observe Cauwyn. "Who are the Rhines?" but as he mentioned who, her brows raised in acknowledgement as she nodded.
"I see."
Blinking, she stared down at the box and moved over to the bed, sitting down and resting it delicately on her lap. It didn't weigh very much, but it sounded like something was rolling inside it.
When she lifted the box open, she gasped, staring down at a beautiful laced dress.
"Oh my.."s he placed a hand to her breast. The piece was rather lovely, ivory in color with a soft layer of sheer, pale rosey pink over top.
As she moved to retrieve it, however, her eyes went wide as she observed the fact the beautiful garmet was a bit scandalously short, scandalously sheer, and only offered only strips of fabric for sleeves. Blinking, her cheeks went pink.
"Is.. is this meant to be a nightdress?" she could not believe it. There was almost nothing to it! "Perhaps the rest is in the box?" she set it aside and peered in, pulling out a soft lacy robe that matched. Blinking, she turned it over, examining both back and front. "Well, these are rather lovely but there's.. um.. not much to them." And she knew nightgowns were meant to be less prudent, but really! This nightgown would barely fall to mid thigh!
She peered over at Cauwyn, box still on her lap as she stared at him uncertainly. "Is this.. is this what women normally wear to bed?" No wonder if sucha garment existed, men would wish to breed so much! She had only ever heard of such things in giggling gossip with other ladies being scandalous and talking about their wedding night but...
Really!
She knew not what to make of it, then peered into the box to realized there were two other things. Setting the robe aside she picked up a bottle, and some other peculiar piece of wood she merely looked at in question, not knowing what to make of it before she placed it aside and read the label on the bottle.
"A Lady's Luxury.." Her brow's raised, uncertain what that meant. "Is this some sort of drink?"s he turned the bottle over to examine it further.
OOC: Holy crap!! That was hilarious!
IC:
Cauwyn's nervousness at not being able to read disappeared rather quickly when the contents of the box were discovered. He blinked, partially in shock and partially in disbelief at what Kat pulled from the package. It was certainly beautiful, and just the thought of Katahnia wearing such a thing made it harder for Cauwyn to hold the towel on. His mouth hung open in shock and though she was asking questions, it took a moment for his mind to catch up to the conversation..
"Uhh..." Came his witty reply, before he shook his head to try and clear some of the thoughts and images that seemed to be dominating his senses at the moment, "Uhh, yeah. I mean, hells, I usually sleep naked so.." He shrugged, eyeing the cloth, "Yeah, it would seem t' be what women wear for sleepin'. Looks pretty comfy I guess, if'n ya were a woman.. and I mean, I doubt ya would wanna wear that on th' road.."
Cauwyn really had no idea what women wore to sleep, at least not most women. The whore houses he had been to often had women in similar, if a bit less fancy, clothing and until then he had thought it was just their chosen attire. But to put Katahnia in the same category just didn't seem possible in his mind, and it made him reconsidered what he had seen. They were in bed all the time, maybe just was what women wore when they slept.. If they didn't sleep nude.
"Yeah," Cauwyn said with a bit more confidence, giving a firm nod of his head, "yeah that seems 'bout right. I mean, it even comes with a little robe too, ya know? So as t' keep ya warmer, if'n ya get chilly.." He couldn't stop staring at the skimpy nightgown and what could barely be considered a robe. There was just so little of it! And the more he stared, the more he wanted to see Katahnia in it, the more he pictured it... and Cauwyn found it now took two hands to keep his towel on as he tried to be casual in his approach to the box.
He frowned slightly at the mention of the bottle she had found, and Cauwyn gave a small shake of his head, "It ain't no drink that I've ever 'eard of.. An' I've drank a lot.." As he leaned closer, waiting for her to open it so he could catch a whiff, Cauwyn noticed the peculiar smooth wooden object that had also come in the box.
He gasped, but quickly tried to hide it by clamping his mouth shut. Men don't gasp, even if they see a severed penis in a box.. But no, that wasn't right was it? His attention turned to the box and the wood inside. Tentatively he reached in to poke at it with a cautious finger, curious to find it was made from smoothly polished wood. He had only one idea what that was to be used for, and frankly Cauwyn was a little hurt at the suggestion that maybe he wasn't enough for Katahnia..
OOC: LOOOOL
"and frankly Cauwyn was a little hurt at the suggestion that maybe he wasn't enough for Katahnia.."
XD
IC:
Even at Cauwyn's words, she felt uncertain and frowned a little.
"I.. I suppose it's better than wearing this filthy dress but I.." she blushed. "I.. I.. still don't know."
Sighing, she gave a pout and stared outwardly at the world. It really did look pretty, and part of her was curious how she might look in it but... perhaps if it had some sort of pants or skirts to go along!
And it was only then she noticed something else.. as she pulled up a seemingly withered piece of fabric- which was the smallest pair of undergarments she had ever seen!
"Well," Cauwyn offered casually with a small shrug, "you can try it on, just t' see yeah? I mean, it really looks like it'll be more comfortable than wearin' that dress..."
When she picked up the thin cloth, Cauwyn stared at it with a bit of confusion at first. It wasn't until after a few moments that he figured out what it was supposed to be and immediately he began snickering, doing his best to hide it by covering his mouth with a black and blue knuckled hand.
"Okay.." He breathed out between spurts of laughter, "well, now... that, uh.. Well, it, erm, might not be quite so comfortable.. But, ya know, the nightgown can still be worn, yeah? Might not be so bad with the robe?"
As he was speaking Cauwyn casually lifted the box with the wooden phallus in it and set it down on the floor, sliding it half under the bed with his foot. If she saw that, he doubt there was any explanation he could give that would cause her to faint. He looked then at the bottle she had had. Opening the small ceramic stopper Cauwyn gave it a sniff and then smiled, holding it out, "Huh, smells like perfume.. That ain't so bad, yeah?"
OOC: I's be sleepy, but I still wanted to post! Hopefully it makes sense XD I caught and corrected a few of my typos since even *I* didn't know what the sentence was suppose to say- so hopefully the rest reads ok XD
IC:
Katahnia's face burned with a blush.
"I suppose it couldn't help to try them." she peered over at the privacy screen, then to Cauwyn as he mentioned the perfume. She leaned forward and smelled it. "It does smell rather nice. Exotic even."S he smiled at him. "Perhaps I can try to wear some tomorrow?" She smiled wider, then lowered her head.
"Well, excuse me for just a moment, Sir Knight, as I try on these clothes."
Tucking back her hair, she slipped behind the screen, only casting him a simple gaze before disappearing behind.
She slipped her dress up and over her head, before resting it overtop of the screen as it hung, limp and dainty.
Then, her silhouette, naked and illuminated by the candles glow, moved about as she held out the garments, then slowly, began to slip them on. Her arm would go out, reaching curling, looking, pouting as she tried to think of what to make of it with her hands now to her hips. It was pretty, but not very prude. Embarrassed, she threw on the robe, which helped little and tied it tight before hugging it closer to her body.
Hesitating, she peered around the corner at Cauwyn.
"I'm.. not sure if this quite fits." she admitted, and timidly stepped out.
The 'dress' showed off long legs beneath the robe and the candle's breath made the innocent woman appear all the more alluring as the flames danced subtle across her form, burning as beautifully as the color of her hair. SHe blushed, not sure what to expect as far as a reaction from Cauwyn, as a fashionable piece of clothing like this looked stunning on a girl like her-
ivory white and pure and pink, as if she were still youthful, which she was, but because of it's make and what is was, also was meant to entice a man to try a woman out.... a woman who was innocent and pure and wanted to try her first bites of sinful love.
He watched her disappear behind the thin veil privacy slide before turning his attention to the perfume bottle. Cauwyn poured a little bit of it onto his finger tips and gave it another sniff. It did smell expotic and nice, but the way it felt on his finger was peculiar. He began rubbing it in slow circles between finger and thumb, smiling at how slippery it was! What an odd perfume, was all perfume like this?
When he looked up to ask, he saw the naked outline of her body through the veil, spying even a few quick flashes of delightful flesh that peeked through the cracks. He almost dropped the bottle, fumbling it briefly before closing the cap and tossing it on the straw bed. His towel had fallen in the effort, and so he managed to pull it back up just in time for Katahnia to come around the corner.
And just in time it was! The sight of her in such a dress, so soft and alluring and covering just enough to give any man an overactive imagination. His mouth hung open ever so slightly as his hands moved ever so slowly up in a shocked gesture, "Whoa.. I, Katahnia..." He was fumbling for words and completely oblivious to the world around him, his attention focused so solely on her. So much so that he didn't notice the only decency he had left was that the towel had managed to hang it's self now freed of his hands.
"Y-you look amazing.." He was barely able to speak, his voice raw with need and throat dry with want. Cauwyn took a tentative step forward, turning his head slightly and craning his neck to get a partial view of the whole package. If he ever saw that old man again, or his wife, he would buy them a damn castle! It took a moment of working his tongue in his mouth to be able to speak again, completely unable to tear his eyes away from her, "B-beautiful... I... I think it fits ya j-just fine..."
Katahnia blushed, cheeks swelling in a sweet smile. As much as she felt awkward, her heart still thrilled at his gawking and compliment as she gently swayed her hips as she curled nervous fingers to her pink lips. But, it was only a matter of time before Katahnia's eyes went wide as she noticed the way his towel hung and...
"C-Cauwyn!" she smacked her hands over her mouth, suppressing a gasped laugh. "C-Cauwyn!?" her voice came again, a bit more questionable and playful as she laughed. Her face twisted a bit as she raised her brows, shaking her head as she moved. "I should change back to my dress.." she began to say, hoping to hide behind the privacy of the screen.
"Huh? Ack! Ah, hells!" Cauwyn's stuttering gaze was finally broken by her exclamation. He looked down at himself and his eyes went wide, snatching at his towel and doing the best he could to get cover himself with his towel. His cheeks turned bright red as he finally managed to cover himself as best as possible, given his situation, "Sorry! Sorry sorry sorry!"
Cauwyn also scrambled to get behind the veil, accidentally bumping into her as they both moved the same way at once. Pressed against her as he was, Cauwyn inhaled sharply taking in the fresh soapy smell of her that mixed delightfully with her own scent. The combined with the silky smooth feel of her against him was almost too much, but embarrassment and panic drove him back away before he could allow his bodies demands to latch onto her and to taste her to take control. This, unfortunately, drove him into the privacy screen.
He stumbled, the screen tumbled, and together they both went down. The screen faired better than he did, simply tumbling over and landing against the tub. Unfortunately for her, her dress was still atop of it and it slipped easily off and into the luke warm water of the tub. Cauwyn on the other hand hit the wooden floorboards with a grunt, his towel discarded in the fall and his head banging off the edge of the bed. The vibration caused his sword, which still leaned against the tub, to scrape along the side before clattering to the ground as well simply adding to the chaos and confusion.
Cauwyn groaned, and grabbed his head. It wasn't bad, there was no blood, but it still hurt plenty well and he rolled slightly on the floor with eyes winced tight. After a moment to realize just how not hurt he was, Cauwyn slowly opened his eyes and found himself looking up at Katahnia with a stunned, sheepish, and utterly helpless expression.
And then a short chuckle escaped him before turning into outright laughter at what had happened.
Kathania's eyes went wide in horror as the entire world around them came crashing down, leaving her to be the only one standing against the chaos of the room. Blinking, she lowered her hands away from her face, gritting her teeth as she gave a gasp, staring down at Cauwyn as she rushed to his side. "Are.. you alright!?" She began, but then grew more worried as his body began to convulse. "C-Cuawyn!?" she grew white with worry, then suddenly, realizing, as she smirked, that he was LAUGHING!
"C-Cauwyn!" she began, hitting him lightly as she leaned over him, still on her knees as she shook her head. Tucking back loose strands of her gold hair behind her ears, she sighed. "Really now, you had me worried I-"and it was only then her eyes caught sight of everything that was a man about him- which rose to the occasion, and all she could do was gape and stare.
Then her hand shot to her mouth as she whispered.
"Oh.. dear." and her face went hot pink.
Cauwyn couldn't stop himself. The laughter came spilling out with seeming no end! It was a mixture of embarrassment and pain and fear and general fatigue that had brewed its self into a great fit of laughter that had him rolling. Tears were forming in his eyes and the veins of his neck distended with the effort of it, his cheeks bright red and practically glowing.
Then he noticed her cheeks were red as well and followed her gaze, his laughter dying off momentarily until he saw that he was laid out completely naked before her. There was only the briefest of pauses and then the laughter exploded again. Could things get any worse? God forbid she find that wooden penis and figure it out now, as judging by her look his was the first she had seen. Which then, of course, only added fuel to the fire.
"Come here!" Cauwyn called out through shaking bits of laughter as his hands reached up to snatch her shoulders. Cauwyn pulled her down atop of him, though he had the presence of mind even with all the shaking to twist his hips away from her. Cauwyn wrapped his arms around Katahnia, holding her close as he tried to reign in his laughter and both protect her from the sight of what made him all that is man!
"Don't," He barely was able to gasp out between breathes, speaking mostly into the side of her neck, "don't look! Don't seee hehehe!" he couldn't help himself! Everything seemed to just be going in one terrible direction after another ever since the stopped at the inn! He was going to shatter this poor girls mind, and there was nothing he could do to stop it!
His legs kicked out, heels bouncing off the floor as all the frustration and worry and turmoil and every other emotion that he had been feeling came out in one great big roaring fit of laughter. Tears streamed down over his cheeks as he buried his face into her soft sweet scented strawberry blond locks. It eventually began to get to the point where nothing was coming out, just his body shaking with the convulsions.
Katahnia let out a start, completely mortified by the arrangements, and all the poor fool of a man could do was laugh! But eventually, even she couldn't help but smile, chuckling a little as she looked down at him, holding him as he convulsed, finally in silence as she shook her head.
"Well, who would have thought that today I'd get a real anatomy lesson," she breathed against his hair, chuckling softly before collapsing at his side and sighing as they lay their in the uncomfortable mess. She stared up at the ceiling for a time, before turning back to Cauwyn.
"You.. you really should find a pair of pants,"s he started, but a small snort of laughter escaped. "Though I must say, it is.. rather impressive how a man keeps such things hidden away in a meager thing as trousers!"
"Now ya see... why I ain't fond o' horses.." Cauwyn breathed out as his laughter finally died off into chuckles, which then turned to nothing. His arms unfolded from around her and fell limp to his sides as he breathed slowly, sucking in air and letting it out again in slow calming breaths.
Finally Cauwyn reached up and wiped away the tears from his eyes, still grinning wildly as she did everything to look at anything but him! He curled one hand around to place it gently on the back of her head. Though a myriad of thoughts ran through his mind, Cauwyn simply held her steady as he leaned up and gave her soft, tender kiss on the lips.
He laid back with a pleasant sigh, smiling up at the ceiling now too, "There, an' ya can tell all your noble friends ya kissed a naked man. You'll be the envy of 'em all, no doubt.." Another short chuckle escaped him and he tilted his head to look at her, choosing to ignore the comment about pants for now, "An' your right, I taught ya 'bout the body. See that? Now ya can't ever say I didn't teach ya nothin'.."
Cauwyn knew he would need to find something to cover himself soon, if not for her than for himself. Being so close to her, the way she was dressed and the feeling of her against him. He didn't know how long he could last. It had been a while since his last time and being so close, getting so worked up at least, twice in a row was not boding well for him. He would need some kind of release soon if he couldn't calm himself. And now with her dress in the tub? That didn't look to be happening anytime in the near future.
At his comment about the horse, she slapped a hand over her lips as she laughed. It was a most unlady like laugh, but she could not help herself in his presence as she shook her head again and stared up into his eyes, face still red, and his, redder still from his fits of laughter and his tears. He really was charming, and she smiled, nuzzling against him warmly and before she kne wit he had leaned over and kissed her lips. SHe moaned softly, almost whimpered but then her eyes shot open wide and the moment was last as he made his last comment.
"OH!"She sat up suddenly, hitting him light on the shoulder. "I think, you might forget, you taught me sword play a well." She grinned. "Or at least you tried to."S he jutted out her chin, giving a pretty smile. "And who said I'd tell anyone what I did with a naked man." here, she gave a sheepish grin, lowering her chin as she looked at him, bashfully. "Cuawyn," she then began, looking away, and accidently getting a.. bit of a look at his standing member. She tucked some hair nervously behind her ear. "You and I.. we..." she idly played with the ruffles on her piece of scant clothing. "What would you make of us." She said, most seriously, turning and peering into his soft, hazel eyes. Sighing, she moved near to him, laying at his side so she was on her belly. "I just... I've never been courted by a man before and.. well... I.. I don't know exactly how it goes, you know.." she shrugged sheepishly. "For people who do not have these things fixed for themselves. My father would have been the one to choose my husband, had he still been alive and I-"
She cut herself off, then closed her teeth and looked away. "Not that I'm saying you'd have to be my husband, but I just don't.." she fidgeted, adjusting the position of her legs before looking sadly, almost defeatedly into his eyes.
"I just ... what would you say we are?"
To her this was an unknown territory, a shade of grey.
OOC: Aww, sad story from Cauwyn. Maturish!
IC:
"I'll teach ya t' play with a sword.." He snickered and then held up his hands, fending off any more attacks as he grinned, "Sorry, sorry.. Too far, yeah, sorry.." He sighed heavily and laid back again, only after making sure he was free of attack. It was suddenly much colder without her atop of him and when she laid down beside him, every fiber of his being screamed to roll against her. To connect himself with her once more if only through the most modest of touches.
Her question though, and the statement before it gave him pause and he had to think. Cauwyn pursed his lips in though, pillowing his hands behind his head which would give Katahnia a nice arm pillow were she so inclined. After a few moments of true, deep thought on the subject Cauwyn spoke. His grin was gone, his face slackened by the seriousness of the question.
"I don't know, princess.." He said bluntly with a small shrug, "I guess ya'd say we was friends? Really close friends maybe?" He sighed heavily, rolling his head to the side to fix her eyes with his, "I ain't much experience in this either, t' tell the truth. I mean, th' whole feelin' things part.."
Something dark and haunted passed through his eyes then and he turned his head, quickly to look back at the ceiling. A lump formed in his throat and he had to work to swallow it down. After a moment, sure that his voice would hold, Cauwyn let out a reluctant sigh and would explain.
"I thought I was in love, once, when I was younger. Younger than that Harold boy who's got a crush for ya.." Cauwyn's words were quiet and heavy, "I was celebratin' m' first battle, m' first real kill of a man. Aldarius took me with 'im and a few of the others t' the tavern of a near-by town. I'd drank before, yeah, but never in a tavern. Never as a man.. Anyways, there was a girl there. She was just a bit older than me, an' pretty as the northern sky.." a smile touched his lips briefly, but it turned bitter and faded away, "An' I liked 'er, an' I told 'er I did an' she liked me.. But, well, I didn't know what else t' do. I knew I loved 'er though, so I went an' told Aldarius. Told 'em I found a girl I loved an' was gonna make 'er my wife. I thought he'd be proud of me, yeah? But no, 'e an' the others just laughed. Laughed at me. Then Alderius said, 'Cauwyn'," He changed his voice, deeper and rougher and filled with bitter resentment, " 'you're not a man until you take her!' And I didn't know what that meant, I thought it was a blessin'. So, I said I would go propose t' her like'n a man should.."
Cauwyn rolled his head to the side once more to look at Katahnia. The cheerfulness and mirth of before was gone, replaced by dark ghosts and a deep burning bitterness, "An' so Alderius took her. He took her an' gave her t' one of his men, a big fella named Mal. Mal started in on her, ravagin' her an' I begged Alderius t' stop him.. He hit me an said if'n I was a man, I could protect her. I could stop Mal, if I really loved 'er. Spit the words at me he did. And so I tried. I attacked Mal... And Mal just laughed and beat me down. Then, all beaten an' bleedin' they made me watch as they passed her around..." He swallowed past the lump that had formed in his throat, his head turning to look back at the ceiling. He refeused to cry, refused to shed any more tears over the memory and rapidly blinked them away before any could fall. After a moment, through ragged breathing, he continued, "So princess, I ain't sure what it is we got... But I pray t' any gods that'll listen that it ain't love.."
He cleared his throat then, choosing not to look back at her. Not to say anything else, focusing then fully on the ceiling in attempt to reign in his feelings, his memories. All the heat of before, the passion, was gone from him..
OOC: Awww, Poor Cauwyn~ and poor girl he had liked >>
IC:
She listened quietly, reserved, eyes shining for him as he spoke. So many thoughts and emotions pooled inside her body. She felt broken at the thought he had loved, loved someone besides her, but it was twisted, knotting into the pit of her belly as she held her gaze fast on him. SHe held her breath, feeling for him as she might herself had she been in his shoes, in that story...
and felt tears sting in her eyes as the hollowed tears in his eyes would never come.
ANd then when he finally answered...
that he wished it were not love, she felt her stomach sink, it turned to ice.
But turning, overwhelmed by all that had been said, and what had occured, she moved, gently stroking his cheeks in her hands before pressing ever so softly, her lips to his lips and kissed him soft, so that most of the kiss was pressed to their top lips and their bottom lips would hold back-
and again she kissed him before pulling away and slipping back soundlessly, quietly to his side.
"Well, whatever it is that that I feel makes me what to kiss you, but I can't do much more than that if... if it won't ever be love. Cauwyn.."s he took his hand gently into hers, peering into his eyes as soft tears formed in their depths. "I'm so sorry you had to experience all of that.. I... I never knew.. that all sounds so terrible.. so horrible that i don't know what to say," she lowered her head shamefully, tears spill down her cheeks. "I did not mean to make you upset." and the last words came out in a quiet, broken whisper. "I'm sorry."
Cauwyn stiffened as she leaned in pressing her lips to his, but quickly relaxed. No matter how bitter his memories, the sweet taste of her lips was enough to drive them away...mostly. He sighed softly and then turned, wrapping half his body around her. His rough hand slid gently beneath her chin, turning it so that he too could press a kiss against her lips, as soft and as sweet as she had done for him.
"I know it makes me wanna kiss you too," He said softly as he broke the kiss, his lips parting in a sad smile, "An' it makes me wanna tell ya stuff 'bout my self, like that, stuff I ain't never talked about with no one. An' for that, I am sorry.." He looked away in shame, briefly, before forcing himself to have the strength to meet her eyes, "Cause someone as pretty an' nice as you shouldn't ever have t' know there are people out there like that.."
Again he pressed his lips to hers, this time with a little more force. A little more hunger, but still he pulled back and smiled, "An' that's why I'm 'ere. T' make sure you ain't ever gotta meet people like that. That nothin' like that ever happens t' ya, yeah?"
Cauwyn finally stirred from where they lay on the dusty floor, his hands sliding beneath Katahnia he didn't even give her a chance to complain before he lifted her from the ground, cradling her in his arms and holding her tight against his chest. He smiled down at her, his passion returning though thankfully she wasn't in much of a position to notice it.
"An' I also can't be lettin' ya lie around on th' floor of an in with some ruffian, yeah?" He grinned broad and cheerful, turning to lower her gently onto the straw bed. His eyes roaming over the sight of her there, in such provocative clothes upon the soft bed. She was so beautiful! He couldn't help himself and Cauwyn leaned in closer to steal another kiss. His eyes closed to imagine what it would truly be like to hold her in his arms like this, to kiss her and know that it wasn't as far as it could go. She was going to make some nobleman very happy some day..
Oh, how she wished she could be the one he could love with again! The one to make him see how powerful, beautiful, wonderful love could be! And despite the powerful notion, the heat that fired her very soul for the man as they kissed, she was still very much afraid, still very much broken hearted over the idea, she would never hold his heart. And she supposed it was what it was.
She found more tears again as he held her, but idly brushed them away when he placed her upon the bed, then slowly, raised her green eyes to meet his, just as the man moved forward to kiss her. Her eyes hung half lidded, her her body tingling and burning as she moaned softly against his lips.
Yes, this was only as far as it could go.... kissing was all the pair should be, could be allowed to do....
But why did it hurt so much? ANd why was her body becoming heated, reaching with enough force and heat to her ears that it became a blinding, maddening force?
His imagination met her own as she leaned up, cupping his face and pressed lips and body to his.
If only they had been born in another time, on different levels...
Then perhaps she would have easily succumb to the powerful and provocative feelings, and the arts of making love. And perhaps, in this other time, this other place, this other dream... it would be love, and someday... she moaned softly, breaking away with a soft whimper, tears finding her eyes as she broke away from him, shamefully lowering her head to hide the salty tears burning hotly down her cheeks.
Someday.. she realized, would never come. Someday... the wish, the feel, whatever it was that connected them... something like it, so powerful and potent could never become realized, could never come to fruition.
Cauwyn was surprised that when he pulled away, she sought him out again. Surprised and delighted. The press of her lips against his, the feeling of her body now held closer through the thin veil of her skimpy nightgown. It was all too much and at the same time, all too sad. He could taste the regret in their kiss, both his and hers, but tasted it even more as they broke apart and she settled back onto the bed.
Her tears were like hot knives cutting into his stomach. He had caused them, somehow someway he knew that she cried for him. Because he couldn't be who he needed to be for her. Because she was afraid he would be who he was, that he would do something terrible to her. She cried because of a young boys first crush gone terribly wrong.
It was hard to breathe past the knot in his throat, but he did the best he could. Cauwyn climbed onto the bed and then over her as quickly as he could, hiding his more sensitive parts from view. He didn't know what drove him, he had never been taught how to care like this. Never been shown and certainly never read about it in a book, but still he settled down and sat behind her where she had no fear of seeing anything she didn't want to.
Gently, very gently, Cauwyn reached over her and brushed away her tears with bruised knuckles. Then he started to brush at her hair. Slow, gentle caresses over her hair. Calm and soothing, though he had no idea why he thought they should be so. It just seemed the right thing to do, to sit with her until she slept or at the least until she stopped crying.
He was so tender, so gentle as he moved to brush away her tears, only to have hot ones brew again, spilling down her cheeks as she looked at him in despair. Then as he stroked her, hands moving through her hair, she leaned into him, burying her face into his shoulder and just let herself cry. It it took a while for her to calm, but eventually she did, though her eyes remained glossy, staring out towards the world and it's quiet calm. Despite the room they were in being dirty, and disheveled from the former calamity, there was a sense of peace about it. But there was also a sensitivity hanging in silence, like the fragile strings of their blossoming love. BUt she couldn't let herself become so wrapped up into it. He said it himself, had he not, that it could never be... he could not love.
Then how come it felt so natural and so right? To be held in his arms so tenderly? He had claimed to be many things, a criminal, murderer.. perhaps even a seducer of women, yet here he was- at her side, holding her delicately, a simple motion as natural as rain.
It was here she lifted herself up, staring at him as tears threatened again and moved in, needing and fierce, a hand cupping behind his head, lips bleeding into his as the world melting away into the most natural of a kiss. And so she drank of him, hungry and more, and moaned as she did, holding onto him fast as she could not stop.
No, she had to prove to him- it tasted too real, this love that burned inside her.
Pulling away, she gasped, staring back at him with hot eyes through half-lids as her lips trembled with need. HIs face was cupped in her hands as she looked, unable to stare away from him as she said,
"You might not think you're worthy to feel love again, but I think you're wrong. No man could act as beautifully as you do and not be allowed to feel it.It's not right. You deserve to feel the burning sensation that grips at your heart and flutters through your veins. To feel a woman need you, and to feel her need you back. I'm not saying it will be me, Cauwyn," she said, smiling as tears slipped from her eyes, running down her cheeks as that smile grew. "But what I'm saying is, I hope you do, whoever she is, to find a woman who is right for you. To find love." Her hands trembled, delicately brushing back some of his hair. "And to have it find you back."
As Katahnia turned toward him Cauwyn politely lowered his hand not in use to cover himself, not sure if she was going to kick him from the bed or thank him or what her plans were. When she took his face in her delicate hands and pressed her mouth to his so hungrily though, he had not expected it. A soft moan escaped his lips and immediately his hands raised to cup lightly against her cheeks. He hated that his hands were so rough, if only because her face felt so smooth and warm, if not somewhat damp from her tears, and the very idea that he could hurt her turned his stomach.
When she pulled away his hands slid away as well. One traveled down over her arm to rest upon her waist, the other planting firmly upon the straw bed to steady himself. A smirk began its slow creep across his lips as an off-color comment came readily to mind, but she spoke before he could say anything.
Her words hit him like a charge of heavy cavalry. The hint of a smirk faded away and his mouth parted slightly in awe. He could feel his breath catch in his throat as a myriad of feelings the likes of which Cauwyn couldn't even begin to explain exploded from inside his chest filling with a mix of emotions totally alien to the former mercenary.
Now it was his turn to cry. Hot tears welling up in his eyes that he tried, repeatedly and in vain, to blink away. They spilled forth anyways down cheeks that turned bright red and he shut his eyes forcefully, trying to stem the tide as he turned his head from her ashamed. His mouth clamped closed to hold back a sob, causing his chest to shake slightly.
What kind of man was he? That he would cry in front of a woman, and for what reason? If asked, he couldn't even say he knew why he was crying. The assortment of emotions that clogged his mind filled him with such a precarious amount of feelings he barely knew where to begin. He forced himself to breathe slowly, in through his nose and out of tight thin lips. What was he feeling that could make him so angry with her, simply for being nice and yet at the same time drive him to want to smother her with kisses? To make him want to yell in anger and accusation at her for making him cry in front of her, and at the same time want to make her yell in pleasure? It was almost nauseating and yet he wanted more, wanted anything, so long as she was there with him in it..
At his tears, she smiled terribly, uncertain what to make of it as she raised her brows, her own tears still scattering down her face.
"C-cauwyn?" she looked him, grimacing, fearful that she upset him. "Cauwyn? I.. I'm sorry if I've upset you.. I.." her voice broke off, a choked sob keeping her from speaking any further as she studied him, moved near to him and brushed back his hair. And then her arms moved around him, holding him fierce. She never wanted to let him go, just wanted to hold him, to honor him, to love him when really they had met not so long ago...
but the seed was there and planted, a connection so deep and impenetrable, it was something she could not explain and she wanted to do nothing else but to be there for him-
and to one day, possibly, hopefully, even be his.
Cauwyn tried to speak, but the words died in his throat unable to get past the lump. When she moved closer, his arms engulfed themselves around her and he pulled her closer still. While one arm wrapped around her lower back, holding her close, the other moved up to bury his fingers in her hair. He pressed his lips to hers in a gentle, heartfelt kiss. It was not the typical hungry or sexual kiss he was used to. There was no driving need to take from her or to bury himself inside of her. This was something different and altogether new for him.
This was imply about being with her. Having her close and having her mouth to his and enjoying it without a need for more. The need was there, growing once more, but it was not the overpowering desire he was used to. He could still think, still feel thing that normally he could not. There tears mingled and together before he finally pulled his head back, his eyes seeking out hers.
"Thank you.." He was barely able to choke out in a harsh whisper. His body trembled and not just from a growing desire. Cauwyn buried his face into the side of her neck, enjoying the soft scent of her hair and it's gentle caress across his face. The delicious tone and taste of her neck beneath his mouth without being drawn to it with his typical savage hunger.
When he turned his head again, his hand still locked into her hair, Cauwyn buried his mouth against hers once more. Gnelte, soft and without the hunger, but no less full of passion and desire. The hot need for her was still there, but it was overshadowed by something different. A different need and desire to simply be near her, to have her lips against his. To hear her soft words of acceptance which played over and over in his head drawing forth more and more tears. He couldn't remember the last time he had cried, not even from injury, but her words had brought on more tears than he thought he had in him.
Katahnia moaned softly, her lips crushing back into his as she held onto him tight. And the kisses would go on unending, pressing, needing, hungry with her love. She tried brushing back his tears, but smiled inspite of their situation, only to kiss him again, body laying heavenly across his, mindful of other things as she kept at him, unrelenting as she was, to kiss him as much as she could and only stopping to gasp for breath.
Passion exploded within like bloom of fire coursing through his body. He held her tightly, searching, yearning, needing to have her close. To be with her. His mouth opened and his tongue hungrily sought out hers. He moaned softly, air coming in ragged gasps between assaults of their lips against each other.
And then he stopped, pulling his head back down into the pillow. He stared at her a moment, just breathing and enjoying everything he had right then. Were he to be struck down in the morning, he could think of no better last thought. His smile was broad, genuine and radiant as he gazed up into the eyes of the beauty atop of him.
"I..." He stumbled over the word as it caught in his throat. Would it mean the same if he said it now, with her atop of him and his own passion coursing hard beneath her? Would it be as beautiful as she wanted for him to say it, for them to share thise love so shortly after she had told him it was the only way for them to be together? Would she grow to hate him? Was that even what he was feeling? Doubt began to creep into his mind, but it fought a losing fight as he stared up into the most beautiful green eyes, "By the gods above and below, Katahnia... you are beautiful.." His voice was a low, hushed whisper.
OOC: Maturish! D:
IC:
Katahnia whimpered at his comment, resting her forehead against his.
"Cauwyn,"s he whispered, eyes opening to meet to his. "You shouldn't say such adoring things." and she leaned over him, her legs moving, delicately, slowly so she straddled across his waist and slipped her lips back to his. "You make me want to say and do such stupid things."S he began, moving her hand through his hair.
"We've only but met, but I can't stop thinking how much I love kissing you." her eyes rolled back as she kissed him again, trying it again with a little more tongue as her thighs squeezed across his belly, ever mindful she stay clear of the throbbing region of his below. "Gods, Cauwyn, if only I wouldn't sound a fool to tell you I Think I love you." she said breathlessly, her entire body heated in a blush, eyes drunk and heavy on lust and love as passion sparkled in her green eyes.
Cauwyn moaned softly into the kiss. With her straddled above him Cauwyn's hands rested comfortable around her waist. His eyes closed for one blissfully sweet moment before opening again, that soft caring smile spreading once more as he gazed longingly up at her..
"Then I probably shouldn't say how much I love it when ya kiss me.." He chuckled softly, pulling her gently forward as he leaned up from the bed to meet her lips once again, carefully pulling her so that his change in position did nothing to compromise the ladys integrity. No matter how much he might wish it.
As he eased himself back down the words she spoke rang in his ears like a trumpet. He looked up at her for a long, quiet movement. A debate raged in his own head as to whether or not he should speak how he felt, or at least how he thought he felt. He had only to go on what Bryn had told him of love in his youth, before it became a twisted evil thing. In the end, however, there was only one answer he could give.
"I... I think I love you too, Katahnia.." His words were soft and mellow in contrast to the kiss that followed as he forced himself up again, driving his lips against hers with passion and force. His tongue escaping his mouth and parting hers in search of hers.
At his words, her expression dropped, eyes widening, lips dropping then curling suddenly into a surprised and then excited smile and as his lips crashed into hers. She hungrily replied, feelings and emotions swelling inside as their lips crashed together, like powerful, gushing waves from a storm.
And it was all too surreal, her lips smiling through his as they trembled, vibrating with laughter as she pulled away, only momentarily to gasp, to breath, and to laugh.
Then she spoke, pulling him desperately near to her as she clung to him and whispered.
"And I think that I think that feeling is returned," she spoke, almost drunk on the dizzying sensation it caused before she moaned and let their lips smash together once again. ANd her body ached so much, causing her to shake to cry, to shout, as she panted, laughing through kisses again and again.
Love, he loved her! It was a maddening thing, even if small, the feelings were shared as she entwined her fingers into his and continued, the fire still there, but the motion slowing, soft and steady and her lips met more sensually to his, experimenting with the angles, and also trying out sampling tastes of his tongue. Then, after the moment began to subside, she slowly pulled back, staring lovingly, curiously into his eyes.
"A lady and her knight..."
Her excitement only served to excite him. The taste of her mouth against his was delicious and when she pulled away, Cauwyn whimpered softly. But soon enough she returned and Cauwyn was on fire once more. The kisses were slower, more sensual, but they were there and that's what mattered. He tried to keep himself in check, keep those urges rolling through his body and causing his hips to arch up every so often to no avail, but it was difficult.
The way she entwined her fingers with his pushed Cauwyn back, or more to say he let her. Arms spread wide, helpless beneath her, Cauwyn smiled up at her between slow sensual kisses. When she would pull away he would strike, rising so far as he could if he left his shoulders on the straw matted bed. It wasn't that he couldn't push her back, but doing so would push her back against him... and Cauwyn didn't think he had the will power to stop what would happen then.
OOC: Kind mature but um.. I had to lol when I wrote this and sorry it's terribly short but.. what else is there to say? lol
IC:
Katahnia giggled and moaned through his sudden attack of more kisses, pulling away, if only but to tease. Her green eyes sparkled, lips and face pink, lashes hanging heavily as she stared at him with as much love, lust and affection as any could observe. But the sudden attack set her off balance and-
she gasped when she finally slid back, landing on a most uncomfortable, but pleasurable seat.
OOC: Lol!
IC:
He giggled and laughed along with her, right up until she lost her balance and slid back. There was a surprised gasp and his hip sunk down into the straw mattress trying to protect his most sensitive member. But then in almost the same instant as the realization that he was fine, his hips drove back up grinding against her as a loud trembling moan escaped him.
Cauwyn breathed out, staring up at her with both shock and lust. His body squirmed uncontrollably beneath her, feeling the pleasure of her sitting atop of him.
OOC: They WOULD accidently have 'the sex' like that. Good thing at least one of them is clothed! Lol
MATURE STUFF AHEAD KIDDIES
IC:
Katahnia gasped when he began to move, a sense of dread and excitement rushing through her. Her eyes went half-lidded, her body tensing but eventually succumbing to the movements as she moved her hips, panties lapping against the swell of his sex. She was so heated with need and so quickly did her sex become wet that he might have felt it easily through the only clothe that kept him from her as they began to moisten and wet through. And all Katahnia could think of as her body reeled and prepared to be taken was-
Oh... my... God..
are we.. is this....
is this sex!?
Not even stopping to realize how foolish it might seem-
For she was still wearing enough clothes to prevent it, though that would be hard pressed as his member would move against her, and at one point, easily pressing the fabric of her panties inside her, and she had just the faintest taste of the forth coming sex as she gasped and moved suddenly, with urgency and need, her body moving awkward and fast, then slow and steady as she moaned, not having a clue as what she was expected to do- or, what she should do, after all, she had never done this before and the sensation of burning was all but too much as her breaths and pants and moans became loudly as she tried to mate with him but to no avail.
OOC: Fail sex XD
but she's trying? <3 lol no one told her she had to take off her clothes, ok!? XD
OOC: LOL! Her first experience with 'teh sex'! 'It was okay I guess..., but the clothes kinda chaffed me!'
MATURE!!
IC:
Little more escaped him than a series of intense moans and softly muttered grunts. Cauwyns eyes rolled back into his head as her warm wetness slid along the length of his member. His hips moved of their own accord, a slow steady rhythm that urged him onward, forcing his body to demand more. His hands gripped firmly on her waist pulling her down against him, driving for more contact between them.
For a brief, blissful moment the head of his throbbing need pressed against hot, wet silk and pressed upwards. He felt her part above him and just a bit, just the tip, slid inwards. Immediately he felt her pressing in a around him and Cauwyns back arched as a loud and pleasurable moan escaped him. It wasn't to be however as that damnable cloth kept anything more for happening and he slid out as easily as he slid in.
Cauwyn gave a disgruntled hiss as his eyes shot open, wide and intense and feral with need. He was on the brink of throwing her to the bed when he caught sight of her beautiful form riding, grinding against him. She was half-lidded and near lost with pleasure and her own need. Cauwyns hands rid up the silky sheer covering of her body, light in touch but still pulling some of that combined robe and nightgown with it.
Powerful hands cupped her breasts and his thumbs slid over the top, brushing against both nipples that now strained against the material binding them. Firm but caring hands gently squeezing and kneading the soft tender flesh of her breasts through the material. He knew he shouldn't. Cauwyn knew he was taking advantage of her, and he also knew if this continued her wouldn't be able to stop himself from doing so. Even still, armed with that knowledge, the idea of stopping this seemed more wrong than right!
OOC: More mature content XD
D: don't read if you're a youngin' ok?
this has the birds and the bees, mmm k :U
IC:
She couldn't stop herself from moving, groaning and whimpering desperately as she moved about him, finally finding her lips back to his after he had began to massage at her soft, sensitive breasts. It was far too much for her to contain as she pulled away from his lips and begged his name, "Cauwyn... Caaauwyn, Cauwny," then set to kiss away from his lips to cheek, then to his ear where she continued to breath his name hotly...
"Cauwyn.."
Her body was still moving, thighs gripping around his waist, her silk panties still grinding against his member, her entire body rocked with pleasure that drove her to the brink of lustful maddness. Oh, from all of the drama and growth of feelings throughout the day, nothing could stop her from her exploration as lips met back to his neck, hands feeling across the warm, firm rough skin of his chest, not knowing that each time she began to move, the damnable silk panties that separated her from being a virgin and not, began to precariously melt away, until something happened, the tip of him shifting around it's slick mass and entered into something wholly new- and before Katahnia knew it, her eyes shot wide open as her entire body ready, tightly, needingly devoured his member whole.
OOC: Whoops, guess they're having sex XD
OOC: What!? Disappearing panties!? Those would be awesome!!
MATURE STUFF COMING RIGHT FOR YA!! Turn back now!!
Seriously..
IC:
Cauwyn rolled his head to the side, exposing more of his neck to her lips. The way she breathed his name into his ear sent tingles of both pleasure and pride running down through him. While one hand stayed upon her breast, kneading and caressing as gently as he could manage, his other hand found it's way back down to her waist. The hem of her nightgown was easily found and his hand slid up under it and wound to the pack, firmly squeezing onto one of her cheeks.
He had to stop this screamed that little voice in Cauwyns head. Years and years of ignoring the voice, of overpowering it with need had placed him into the position he had wanted to avoid. A constant feeling of guilt. He would not have it again. Despite the hot, tense passion building up inside of him and pouring down around him from her, he knew he had to stop. Had to pull away before this went too far.
And then it did. While not as surprised as her, no doubt, he was still surprised as his member forced it's self up into her. The underwear seemed to have just disappeared and in their passion he had barely noticed the moment of resistance before he felt himself slide fully into her warm embrace. Cauwyn gasped with the pleasure of it, the tightness hot and wet and gripping him so completely. He stopped himself though every instinct in his body said to drive on. To thrust hard and fast and take what he needed from her, what they both wanted.
He stare dup at her with wide, concerned eyes. She wasn't the first virgin he had been with. His hand upon her breast tightened somewhat, his thumb and forefinger pressing down onto her sensitive nipple to try and help mask the pain.
"Kat.." He breathed, his words heady and raw, "Are ya ok?"
OOC: Still mature!
IC:
At first her lips didn't answer, but her body responded, curious to the new presence that invaded her as her sex, the muscle, began to spasm around him, and her eyes suddenly fluttered close with a moan. It had hurt, yes, and burned in an unusual way, but the feeling was indescribable, and she was curious of it as her breath hitched inside her throat as she hesitated, and then moved gently, body rising then falling once to gobble him back inside with haste, tasting the length of his shaft. She shivered, eyes falling closed again. Yes, it burned it hurt but it feel so wonderful, a fire igniting from within as she let out a pant, eyes opening barely as she looked at him.
"I... it... are.. we?" her lips cracked into a partial smile, both cheeks and breasts blushed in pink.
OOC: Still TV-MA folks!! That means Mature!
IC:
When she moved, Cauwyn moaned softly. It was all he needed of a signal. His hips rolled up, pushing himself deeper into her, burying himself as far as he could as her hot wet sex surrounded him. Her spasms drawing his need from him and goading his whole body to action. Cauwyn curled up at the waist, his hand foregoing her breast to pull her close while his other hand ensured she stayed seated atop of his grinding thrusts.
"Yes," He breathed out in a ragged gasp, his lip curling into a pleased grin, "yes we are.." Was all he could finish before his mouth sealed around hers, drinking hungrily.
His hand released her now as he began to thrust harder and with more force, bouncing her slightly with each thrust. His arm snuck down under her leg and below her knee, pulling it up higher and opening her up more. She was almost too tight for him, his breathing becoming ragged gasps and heavy grunts as he fought to find a sustainable rhythm. His muscles hardening beneath clean worn skin to help stabilize her with each hard pounding thrust of his throbbing member.
His mouth broke free of hers and attacked her neck. Suckling not so gently against the flesh as his teeth parted leveling small love bites upon her throat and the point where her neck met her shoulder. His free hand now roamed her body with abandon until it fell again upon her breast, this time pulling at her nightclothes to free the wonderful flesh hidden beneath.
OOC: Still mature XD
:U they are making babies ok? BABIES so don't read any further if that offends you~
U: and not muppet babies
IC:
Katahnia moaned, her eyes rolling back at his statement, her body gripping tighter, spasming inside at the sensation and splendor and fear of what he said. But she didn't fight it, merely allowed for it, her entire being in a frenzy, in a need as she let him nurse at her neck, then when he worked at her clothes, she blushed, but began to help him, pulling off the robe and discarding it aside, though the gown remained, barely left on her as it was, as her breasts hung, exposed and moving, bouncing as he bucked beneath her and she, not knowing what to do, clung to him, enjoying the ride.
OOC: Like she said, Mature baby-makin' stuff ahead!
IC:
Her breasts now exposed, bouncing and jiggling so free and sexy without the confines of her nightgown, Cauwyns mouth continued south. He started with soft kisses to her breasts, but it wasn't enough. As he thrust up into her again and again, feeling her wrapping tighter around him, Cauwyn hungrily sought out one of her nipples. His mouth surrounding the soft nub of flesh, his teeth gripping gently as his tongue lapped over with wanton abandon.
Mirandas challenge had been accepted. The bed they were in creaked and groaned, slamming both against the wall and the floorboards raining dust and grim down to whomever was unlucky enough to remain below. None of that mattered to him, none of it registered in his mind. In fact nothing registered at all beyond his hot need to be in her, to be as deep within her as he could while tasting every part that she would allow.
With his arm still hooked under one of her legs, Cauwyns other hand snaked around behind her head. Cupping it gently to protect her Cauwyn thrust and rolled his hips and body in unison, taking them from their seated position and putting her onto her back. Face still buried in her breasts, his arm hooked under her other leg as he began to work himself up into a fevered pitch, positioning himself to go deeper even yet.
OOC: Still mature content
:U those poor tavern patrons below
IC:
Katahnia wasn't sure how much of this she could take before she would explode.
With his sex thrusting and pistoning deep inside her, lips devouring her breasts, her entire body heated with flush and became slick with sex, sweat and need. SHe would have feared she had pissed herself for how slick and hot and wet she was, as she arched herself towards him, her own body moving, then stiffening as he took her, hard and steady as floor boards cracked, even one sounded as if it had split, when suddenly the board beneath the upper right side of the bed frame broke- and the bed went down at an awkward angle so that the foot of the bed stuck out from the ceiling while the force would make Cauwyn fall into as deep inside as her as he could and it was then she felt herself become over whelmed with need as she held onto him fierce, bucking and her velvet soft sex pulsating around him with need as her insides erupted into sweet burning fits of ecstasy.
She had just felt the sweetness of heaven.
And she had never cried or shouted so loudly a man's name in all of her life.
OOC: Mature for sure!!
At least now someone else has to worry about what's in their drink!
IC:
He was lost in his own moment of need. His thrusts becoming harder and faster, striking ever deeper within her. Cauwyns breathing became little more than ragged gasps and heavy panting. His mouth moved from one breast to the next and back again, unable to get his fill and never tiring of trying. This was surely heaven within her, warm and wet and gripping him like a soft wet velvet vice.
When the floorboard broke Cauwyn hardly noticed, aside from plunging into her a depth he had yet taken. It was the full breadth of his member buried as deep as nature could allow. Her body quivered and then she exploded around him a hot wetness that drove him nearly insane. Her nipple between his teeth he drug them across the tender flesh at the height of her orgasm until it slipped freely from his mouth. Cauwyns eyes closed and he pushed himself harder, faster, until he buried himself inside of her and ground his pelvis against hers in one last long push.
And then he too exploded. His head whipped back and he joined her in with a loan groan that built its self up into a billowing howl! Filled with lust and feral need and a supreme feeling of release as he exploded again and again inside of her, his sweat slick body wracked with the quivering throes of passion. And finally it ended in little mewling grunts as his muscles, taxed to their limit, finally gave out on him so that all he could do was slow his descent until he laid upon her panting furiously, small tremors of pleasure still wracking his body on occasion.
OOC: Still mature but I think they might be done now :U
IC:
Sex.
Making love.
Whatever it was, was definitely something incredible. The feeling between her legs was a painful bliss, easily welcomed by the need of her body- and when she came, and he, she felt his hot cum rush deep inside her, filling her with primal seed.
It was all so exciting, tiring, wonderful, pleasurable all at once as she panted beneath him, moving just slightly as she was awkwardly leaking with his seed (for her had so much and she was so significantly tight) and it mixed with her sex and wet the bed sheets beneath them. It felt awkward, but then she stopped her squirming, closed her eyes and just nestled her cheek against his.
And she just breathed.
"I... that..." she began, voice breaking away to long winded, nearly whimpering moan as she shivered. "That was incredible. I.. I never imagined having you inside my body could feel so good." She whimpered with a moan again, the muscle around his tender member squeezing as she shut her eyes real tight and suddenly threw her arms around him, breathing into his ear of her delight.
"Oh, by the Gods, I love you Cauwyn. This feeling it's so... so strange and raw and powerful." she moaned again then peered into his eyes before hugging him tightly again.
"If I didn't think this was so messy," she began, her voice a bit of a tease as she whispered into his ear. "I'd suggest we'd do this every night."
OOC: Still mature!
IC:
Cauwyn too moved slightly, or tired to. The simple act of moving was enough to send another spike of pleasure burning through him and forced him to stop. The way she still tightened around him, milking him dry, only brought more soft moans of delight from his lips. Though he could feel his hot seed leaking mingled with her sweet juices as the dribbled out to the bed, moving from the area seemed impossible.
When she threw her arms around him and held him close that movement too brought a small moan, though he still beamed with a grin spreading ear to ear. He was struggling to get his breath under control as she whispered softly into his ear and brought a quiet chuckle out of him. Cauwyn turned his head, kissing her twice rapidly on the neck before tilting his head to bring his lips to her ear.
"Only once a night?" He whispered in a husky, throaty tone that spoke of how raw his throat and his passion was, though it still held some hint of a half-joke to it. But only some, and as if to prove it Cauwyn forced his tired aching pleasure racked body to respond, shifting up on his arms and driving his pelvis into her again. He had yet to soften a bit from their foray, though the thrust weakened him from the pleasure. He settled then, butted against her as her was, to simply grind his pelvis against her sex. His voice was still raw, but it held a hotter and more passionate tone as he spoke, "Don't worry princess, there are many more things we can do that're less messy... somewhat, at least.."
OOC: Mature warning trigger still applies~
IC:
"C-Cauwyn!"s he screamed and gave a fierce blush, though she laughed into a moan as he started to move inside her again. "Gods.. Cauwyn.. how.. how long is this to last?"
Really, she had no idea how it all transpired as she took her hand and brushed it through his brown hair.
"We've.." she panted, feeling her throat dry. She licked her lips. "We've already broken the floor board-"
And if to remind them- there was a quick knock at the door.
"You two in there! You will be owing us many a silver piece for that floor!" cawed the old woman before she slammed open the door.
Gasping, Katahnia struggled to hide herself behind Cauwyn, drawing the bed sheets up to cover her breasts, but not before Harold got a peek.
"If you want to keep at it, I expect payment now. You broke my floor!" the old woman continued, impatiently.
OOC: Still a bit mature..
IC:
He just laughed at the mention of the floorboard, giving a thrust some extra umph just to make the bed rock, "Oh that? All the better t-" He was cut off by the banging on the door, along with the crones shrieking. He let out a frustrated sigh, fully prepared to ignore her when the door burst open once again. Cauwyns cheeks heated red much as Katahnia's, though for an entirely different reason.
Where she may have been concerned with modesty, it became quiet clear Cauwyn was not. With a slick wet sound, and a slight grimace, he pulled himself from her and turned to address both the old woman and Harold from his knees, arms spread wide in frustration and his full body bared. Still dripping with their sex, Cauwyn growled through gritted teeth as he still managed to level an intimidating cold hard stare at the two.
"Now? Really?" He shifted somewhat on his knees to face them more. The room was still in disarray and he noted his sword was still near the tub, but he never took his eyes from the two interlopers, "As I see it, this is twice you have barged in unannounced into a room we paid for! Ya want your floorboard fixed, ya bring it up tomorrow and leave us be! Privacy was part of our arrangement an' we 'ave had none of it!"
He had made his way on his knees to the edge of the bed. Now he stood and reached not for his clothing as he stalked towards her. He made no move to cover himself closed the distance, in stead grabbing up Katahnias dress from the bathwater as he passed and mixing it with his own soiled clothes.
"So why don't you take this," His said with a hiss, stuffing the ball of clothing into the womans hands as he glared down at her, naked and scared and with a very dangerous look in his eyes. Each word he spoke grew louder and more heated, "And see to it that it they are cleaned and pressed by morning? And then, after we have had breakfast, and have fucked 'til our hearts content, you and I may speak about things such as payment, yeah?"
The old crow only stared, getting an eye full and earful before the clothing was shoved into her hands. She growled, baring her teeth. "Add an extra gold to that for difficulty!" she snapped. "But we'll 'ave them ready, we will." she swatted her hand at him, bah-ing at him like he was nothing then gestured to Harold, who still had his eyes plastered on Katahnia, wondering, wishing.. hoping she'd considering another sort of man before the night was through as his mother pinched his cheek and he grimaced and was pulled away.
With the door closed, Katahnia only remained, blinking and still too mortified to speak nor move.
"Rancid old hag.." Cauwyn spit after the door had closed. He hadn't noticed but his hands had curled into fists, his bruised knuckles as pale as they could be considering the redness that covered them. He released a few deep, heavy breaths, unclenching his fists and letting his anger go. He suddenly felt very tired and very weak, almost all energy drained from him.
When he turned to face Katahnia though, a wry grin spread on his lips at her mortified look. He began chuckling and despite his tiredness started toward her with a spring in his step, not even stopping as he bent low and snatched up his sword. The blade was put to rest against the wall beside the bed before he crawled in it and over to her.
"Aw, what've we got here?" He asked in a playful tone, his finger tracing the line of the bedding she used to cover herself. He leaned in close, pressing a quick hard kiss against her lips before pulling back to speak once more, his tone much softer, "It's alright, princess. I promise ya, the next fool who comes through that door I'll take their head!"
He snuggled in closer to her, his hand content to roam her body above the cover she protected herself with. He could wait until she felt comfortable enough to lower it again. He could wait an eternity just too see her beautiful body naked once more.
It took Katahnia a moment to register what he was doing as he muffled a noise against his kiss. Pulling away, she searched his eyes.
"Cauwyn, you just.."she flushed an even deeper shade of red. "You just went around yelling without your clothes on and we,.. it.." she felt her voice break, eyes stinging with tears again as she turned away in a pout, not feeling much like wanting to cuddle, but wanting to all the same as she nestled her back to him, but the rest of her turned away as she placed her thumb nail against her teeth and bit hard.
After a moment, she finally sighed and turned towards him.
"Cauwyn... I.."s he began, but then sighed, defeated, not knowing what to say.
After all, what did a proper lady say after giving her virginity to such a man?
"And..?" Cauwyn drew out the word as she turned away with a huff. His hand rose off of her breasts and his brow lowered into a look of surprise, confusion and maybe a touch of anger. After all, he hadn't done anything wrong except tell that horrid woman off! It's what she deserved, and what did it matter he was naked? "Ya know, it's not as if she ain't seen one before? An' she had it comin', 'spectin' us to pay for this kinda service! I've stayed at some shady places, but never like this.."
He frowned then, realizing it was something more than just the old crones interruptions. He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her back against him, though the bed sheet separated the two, "What's wrong, Kat? Really?"
Katahnia looked at him with sad eyes and a frown. So many emotions swirled inside her belly, pulling tightly at the perpetual feeling that now resided- the feeling of guilt.
She had just given her body and soul to a man that was not her husband, and a man she had only found out was in love with her- what, barely an hour ago?
She couldn't fight back the single tear that slipped down her cheek as she lowered her face and brushed it off, trying to laugh at herself but the sound came out dry.
"Cauwyn, it's just that I... I don't know how I feel after all of that. I..." she hesitated, then raised her eyes to meet his, tears still threatening. "I had never made love before."
ANd she knew not all of the consequences to her actions either, or the possibility of life, the seed she had taken- but merely realized the guilt that sat heavily inside her gut..
"We.. we are not even married. I.. a.. a lady is meant to wait and I.." she couldn't help but turn her head away from him, feeling ashamed.
Even if she were to marry Cauwyn,- she had not waited for their wedding night...
But with all of the stress of the day, there was no way to avoid what her body needed, and although sex sated most of that, she still couldn't help but begin to feel miserable and sorry for herself over it.
Sex..
She just had sex.
And with a man she barely knew and thought she loved! Feelings ribboned and fluttered on the inside. She had felt something for Cauwyn, this was evident- but it was only after the fact she began to question the real stability of love. She very much wanted to believe it but... in the same breath, seeing how he had acted and well-
It shouldn't had seeded any doubts but, she could not help herself-
She felt she needed to defend her honor, and now- she no longer had any. SHe had just given it away....
Perhaps it was just as it were....
She would, after all, have to accept that.. Katahnia was no longer a lady.
"Kat.." Cauwyn breathed out a heavy sigh. While never one for post coitus cuddling, he had imagined it would have been a fair amount better than this! Cauwyn moved his hand from her hip and up to her shoulder, giving it a soft squeeze as he tried his best to see things as she did, "I just... don't understand what's wrong? Ya enjoyed it, yeah? It don't make ya a bad person, your still th' woman ya were. A lady," He grinned and leaned over her, giving her a quick peck on the cheek, "My lady. It don't change nothin' really, 'cept when we camp it'll be a mite better.."
Cauwyn leaned back then and sighed, laying on his back nestled against her side. The true gravity of what they had done escaped him as well. He had always left afterwards, never with one woman longer than a span of a few days. Now though, he couldn't see himself leaving this one. He smiled, basking in the afterglow of emotion that had come with his release. He was on the opposite end of the spectrum, at least for now. The guilt had not set in yet.
"Katahnia," He said softly, still looking up at the ceiling, "I ain't got no clue what's wrong, why ya seem so upset.. I mean, what we did.. What we have? It, well..." He sighed with a bit of frustration, "I ain't never felt like it before, an' I gotta tell ya I do like it. I feel great, an' it's more than just the sex.. It's you. You bein' here.."
He snorted out a breath, a frown coming to his lips as his brow drew down, "An' if ya don't feel that way, well, then I'm sorry. An' we ain't gotta do this again, but..." He didn't know what to say, didn't know how he should feel. Why was she upset? It was all a bit too much for him..
Katahnia gave a frustrated sigh as she nestled into him, nuzzling her face up against his neck and just curling up within his arms.
"I.. I just don't know how I'm supposed to feel. It was all so very sudden, and wonderful, I won't lie," she said, smiling up at him. "But a part of me can't help but feel guilty." And here her smile faded, replaced by a frown. "Cauwyn, I do care for you a great deal. I just... this happened so fast I'm still not sure what to make of it all. But I do know I liked it." she kissed his neck softly, sighing as she nestled beside him. "And that I might not be entirely opposed if we were to consider trying that again." She gave him a playful smile, but sighed again, just enjoying be so near to him in this moment.
Perhaps they ought to worry about the consequences later and just enjoy the aftermath of bliss.
Though he gave a somewhat annoyed grunt when she turned and nestled against him, there was no hesitation when his arms wrapped around her pulling her in close. He tilted his head down slightly, pushing his cheek against the top of her head. And then came a contented sigh as he listened to her words with half-lidded eyes.
"Well, good." He said with some finality and a small nod of his head, "I'm glad ya liked it, I did too. An' I know it happened kinda fast, bu-" Cauwyns words cut out at her last statement. A wry grin spread across his lips as he twisted slightly and used his arms to pull her more onto him. Though the blanket may have been in the way just then, he had no fear about his ability to remove it were it to get into the way, "Oh yeah? Ya wanna do it again? Well, princess, that can certainly be arranged.."
Gasping, she pushed away from him, hands flat on his chest.
"C-Cauwyn!" She looked at him in dismay, then laughed and shook her head. "Is that all men think about?" she joked, then nestled herself ontop of him, torso against his and palms resting on her cheeks. "Really, there.. must be other things we could do."s he said, letting her feet kick gently behind her as her eyes shined with mirth. "After all," she continued, wrinkling her nose with a smile. "I do like kissing."
Though kissing is how this silly thing all began!
"Well its not all we think about..." Cauwyn said as he rolled his eyes away from her, able to keep the grin away for barely a few seconds before it spread wide across his lips. He turned his head to look back at her then, giving her a quick peck on the nose before a longer, more tender kiss against the forehead.
"Oh there are plenty of things we can do.." He said then, shifting his body and pulling at the covers beneath him until he too was at the same level as her and felt again the warmth of her body against his. Instantly he began to react, his hand coming down on her waist before it started a slow stroking motion along her side, "Kissing though will pro'lly be the best for ya.. Don't wanna blow yer mind too early, we just started yeah?"
With that he chuckled and then quickly moved in for a kiss, not wanting to hear what he was sure would be a sharp rebuttal. His lips pressing tenderly against hers before spreading open to allow for his tongue to pass into her.
OOC: Woo, my 2,000th post 8D
Katahnia would have protested but his lips sealed to hers. She squirmed, screamed a little through closed lips and gasped when his tongue entered her mouth.
Tensing, she quickly yielding, moaning before hse pulled away with a gasp and stared at him through half-lids.
"C-Cauwyn.."s he began breathlessly, heart rattling inside her chest. "I... "She blushed, smiled nd kissed him back. "Remind me again what I was going to yell at you about?" She smirked, kissing him again before leaning into him some, moaning softly, sweetly.
Oh, how much she cared for him, it just hurt too much and she found herself quickly whimpering over the idea.
Cauwyn.. he had said he though the loved her-
and she felt it and wanted it to be known to be true.
"Cauwyn.."s he said after a time, pulling her lips from his and staring back into his eyes.
"What.. do you make of us? I mean... what would you call this union?" she said, entwining her fingers into his, the other cradling softly his cheek. "Do you think of me as your lover now?" she looked at him most seriously, her heart needing to know, if for anything to quell any doubt she had of their love. After all, she had just given herself completely to him without so muhc as asking for any officiality to 'what' they were and what 'this' was.
OOC: What!? And you waisted it on me!? I'm so honored!! Woot!
IC:
"Mmm," He made a small pleasurable noise once the kiss broke, "I believe ya were gonna yell at me for not kissin' on ya enough.." He chuckled softly before he was swept up in a series of kisses. Some were passionate and hot, other gentle and soothing, though all of them held the tingle of need they shared for each other.
When she asked her question however, Cauwyn turned his head away slightly, looking up at the ceiling once more. He narrowed his eyes and pursed his lips in a show of thinking, making several small noises as he drew it all out until he was sure she was going to hit him. Then Cauwyns lips split into a grin as he tightened those fingers interlaced with hers, "Yes. Yes I would say we're lovers. I think that would be th' best term for us, yeah? In fact, I think they mighta made that word just for us.." He kissed her, soft and sensual and broke the kiss with some reluctance, "Cause I think it's 'bout th' best way I can describe how I feel for ya.."
OOC: ANd my 2001th post starts our 22nd page of HOT CHAOS lol XP
IC:
Katahnia's cheeks heated, her green eyes going wide.
"C-Cauwyn!"she tried to chastised, but only laughed and kissed him some more. Sighing, she nuzzled against him, kissing his cheek and closing her eyes as she lay her head in the crook of his shoulder and breathed into his ear.
"I suppose you're right." she said, making a gentle noise of contentment. "I just feel so much for you, I'm afraid my heart might burst."
OOC: What? Woot woot! Now if only I had an award for reaching this many pages!
IC:
"And I you.." He breathed against the top of her head, craning his neck to place only last gentle kiss on the top of her head before he rested his cheek against the soft pillow of her hair. The arm upon which she lay curled around her body until his hand rested on her waist, his other hand moving to rest both under her arm and to cup gently the side of her breast. It was a very possessive position to be in, but Cauwyn was feeling rather possessive at the moment.
"But, I believe ya asked for more, earlier, yeah?" He said with a sly grin as he shifted himself away just enough to see her face. His hand moved gently over her breast as his grin gave way to a wolfish smile and his hand traveled further south still. Despite the long and tiring day, Cauwyn still had some energy left in him as his hand traveled between her thighs.
Not much sleep was gotten, though they did eventually get the rest they needed. The heavy hammering of a cleaver chopping meat eventually drove Cauwyn from sleep and with a bit more resentment from Katahnia's side. He hushed her back to bed with a few kisses before wrapping himself in a towel once again and traveling downstairs. After another quick bout of words with the woman who owned the inn, he received their things on promise of future payment and returned up stairs to dress.
Harold returned to refill the bath along with a basin, though Cauwyn had righted the privacy screen to keep the kid from stealing anymore glances at his girl, to the young mans disappointment. After they had both washed the stickiness of the nights activities from their bodies and Cauwyn roughly shaved away the few days growth of beard from his face, he finished dressing pulling on his tunic and cinching it down with his weapons belt and baldric. As Katahnia finished with her hair and dress, he gathered up their things and took her by the arm, leading her downstairs.
Yet again he and the old woman got into words over just how much was owed. Cauwyn was able to bring the price down some, though he had to admit that he had fought Adelans with less spine than the old woman. It also helped when Miranda had come in and Cauwyn quietly reminded her of the bet she had made the night before. Her face was red with jealousy and anger, but donated up what amounted to a sizeable sum for the girl. In the end, it had cost them one full gold and three coppers.
With that done he returned to Katahnias side, smiling appreciatively as he looked her over. With a soft, somewhat remorseful sigh, he finally took his eyes from her torn skirts and returned them to her eyes, "While I hate t' see ya part with such a fine dress, I think I promised ya a new one, yeah?"
OOC: You can at least get the 5 and 10 page badges by request them here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=8264.0) XD
since um, our thread well went past that, haha.
IC:
The night had been long. It didn't take Cauwyn long to persuade her into a second act, and only after then, she found herself so satisfied that she fell asleep within his arms. Waking hours later, it must've been mid-afternoon by the time both had finished their bath- and Katahnia was completely famished. They had gotten something to eat, and then it was only after the fact that Cauwyn presented her with the idea of obtaining a new dress.
She blushed sheepishly at the thought, smiling at him for the gesture.
Part of her felt dedicated to the dress she wore, but perhaps it was time to change? Change like the rest of the world around her and begin anew again, in the fresh afterbirth of her former life's death.
With it came something new, something exciting in the promise of love, and she felt that, with Cauwyn at her side, no matter what she was to face ahead, new dress, new land, new life- that she could do it. The Allarians be damned that ruined her home.
Smiling brightly up at him, she nodded, taking her hand into her own and squeezing it lightly.
"I would very much like that."
Though as the couple strolled out into the street, her eyes took in the world around them, and all of the wares and noises of busy black smith's, butcher's shaving their meats and women cawing about their wares. They had made their way down a second block when her eyes fell across a small shop with trinkets- jewels glittering in the sun, and gold sparkling as it caught it's rays, jingling, chiming as a gentle breeze swept by and strangely, she found herself mesmerized by it, that was, until her face fell at the sight of something familiar....
It was her mother's music box, sitting there, the silver well tarnished, even scarred by burns.
She would not have thought other wise, had the crest of her duchy not been pressed into the silver's surface. ANd Katahnia found herself unable to tear her eye away.
OOC: Thanks!
IC:
The day was turning out quite well, despite the fact that Cauwyn was never a big fan of shopping. Markets were crowded and noisy and put him on edge. There was an assault of smells from unwashed people and a variety of foods that could turn your stomach. Though maybe it was all a matter of perspective, as Cauwyn seldom went into markets on a pleasant note, if only for one reason.
Vendors.
Cauwyn, the ex mercenary band leader and vicious fighter, was scared of vendors. Well, perhaps not scared, but when pressed hard with an argument to buy, he often found it hard to say no. For the most part he was able to simply stare people down until they backed away and when that was not enough, a low rumbling growl was usually enough to cower most people. But there were always those who would not be dissuaded, and those were the ones he had the hardest trouble with. While one might not think that it would require effort to think up an excuse why a traveler with no home didn't need a twenty pound bear skin rug, for Cauwyn it tended to be more of a challenge than facing down archers.
So he was more than happy to let Katahnia take the lead. Though he made small displeased noises every time she stopped, he never really voiced his complaint. After all, that he was getting to spend the day with her was pleasing enough on his own. And the idea of her purchasing what she would, the day ending and their night together beginning again anew was enough to encourage Cauwyn to be ever at her side lest she decide she wanted to buy something and they could be on their way.
When she stopped in front of the small jewelry stand Cauwyn busied himself by looking away, studying his nails, and searching for someone who just might happen to be wandering the market selling drinks. Unfortunately, such a man did not exist. Cauwyn turned back, seeing her eyes locked onto what appeared to be a tarnished silver box. What on earth she would need such a box for, he had no idea. But, if it would make her happy, Cauwyn was more than willing to move the process along.
"What's this?" He asked in his softest and most innocent tone, hoping to hide his frustration with the market as he stepped up behind her pressing his body to hers and speaking down into her ear, "Find somethin' ya like, princess?"
OOC: Like all true men, Cauwyn hates shopping lol!
OOC: Yes, he's a real trooper...
BUT SHINIES
IC:
Katahnia almost jumped when Cauwyn cut in, her memories fading away like a clear cut blow from a knife. Blinking, she turned to him, feeling embarrassed before looking back down at the box.
She picked it up, examining the symbol as she brushed off the dirt from it's surface.
"This... this used to be my mother's." she whispered. "It.. it bears our crest."
Her eyes went sad, face still long as she moved to unlatch the box and stared down at the vacancy within. What had once been full of pretty bracelets now sat dormant, and her fingers itched, curious if it still played song.
The vendor lifted up her puckering face.
"Did the lady find what she wants?" she said, spitting some of her tobacco on the floor. The old woman moved to stand, having hair like Katahnia's, but it was half streaked with grey and white strands from age, and was pulled back in a tidy pony tale at the base of her neck. ANd her eyes were a deeper green than Katahnia's, her face much rounder and wrinkled with age.
"It's of precious silver, though not many would find the box very charming. There are burns on it, but it does play a beautiful song."
She gestured towards Katahnia when she saw her expression.
"Go ahead, try it out."
Katahnia held her breath, gripping three fingers around the small handle at the side as she cranked it a few times-
and upon it's release, the air was filled with the ornate chimes of music, that clittered and clanked from within, and carried up high, like a sea of bubbles, carrying off and away towards the clouds.
The music was enchanting- the royal ballad, one compose especially for the former royal family of Harmond.
"Ah, it's been too many years since people have 'eard that song," the woman pressed. "A tragedy really, but the price will remain. It is a difficult find. 30 gold. Nothing more, nothing less, for such a prize well kept from the dead duchy of Harmond." The woman stepped forward, a wide smile on her face, while Katahnia's green eyes glossed over with tears.
"So, what'll it be? Do you fancy to have it?"
His heart sank for hers at hearing of the battered boxes origins. A small frown coming to his lips as Katahnia was once again reminded of her families death and the destruction of her duchy, her home. When she turned back to the woman and turned the little crank however, Cauwyn took a nervous step back eyes narrowing darkly at the box. While he was not affected by magic as others, it still held little favor with him. He had never seen a music box and had no idea the way such a thing would work. He let out a slight growl, even as the old woman and Katahnia seemed unfazed by it.
After a moment and when he did not detect the feeling of magic breaking its self against his mind, as surely he had thought the music some kind of entrancing spell, Cauwyn relaxed somewhat and moved again to press against Katahnia. He offered a small, sad smile as he listened to a song that obviously held deep meaning and painful memories for her.
"Thirty wh-uh!?" Cauwyns eyes widened with shock as the woman demanded her price. One hand moved then to rest upon Katahnia's shoulder as he stepped around her, coming between her and the woman as if he expected the old woman to draw a sword and cut her down on the spot. It took a moment for him to regain his senses, but when he did his eyes narrowed with an incredulous look, "Thirty gold? Why in the hells would you think such a beaten, battered box would cost so much? Who in this town could afford that much even for a home or a horse!"
He took a deep, calming breath holding up one hand in a gesture of surrender. After letting the breath out most of the heat had parted from his voice, "Alright, listen. Now, thirty gold is a bit much, yeah? What would ya take instead? I am sure we can work out some form of trade, yeah?"
"I told ya the price," the woman said, eyeing the man up with an indignant sniff and hands to her hips. "Though the box is worn, it is very rare. Not many could afford ta own a box that produces music. Only royals could afford such a luxury, so a royal price ye' shall pay, now if you 'aven't got the coin," she said, moving forward to dissuade Katahnia from greasing up her produce any further-
"I"ll be ye' 'aving you place d'at back on my cart, ye will."
Katahnia felt her insides turn cold at the statement, the expression dieing inside her eyes as she placed the music box down where it settled back into it's place amongst the woman's trinkets, the song fading away into slower, fading clunks.
And before there was a scene to be made, Katahnia excused herself,
"Thank you for, at least letting me look at it,"s he spoke, and quickly turned away, moving out into the bustling crowd, the back of her hand drawn over her lips as they wavered, eyes brewing with hot tears.
"You will never find one willin' to pay that price, where I would be willin' to at least pay above a fair one.." Cauwyn growled at the woman as Katahnia slipped away. His blood was heated, but he struggled to cool his temper. Instead, he focused to something more useful. Cauwyn eyed the woman and her cart, committing both to memory before turning to stalk after Katahnia.
He pushed his way easily through the crowd until he came upon her, one hand lightly taking her by the upper arm to turn her toward him. Without a word he moved against her, his other hand wrapping around her body while his hand gently gripped the back of her head, pulling her into his embrace.
"Shhh, I know.." He said in a low whisper, rocking gently and bending his head down so as not to draw attention. They looked more like two young lovers sharing an intimate moment than a duchess crying into the arms of a rough man for the loss of her family and duchy, "I know, Kat, I know.. But don't worry, yeah? I'll see that spell-box t' your hands, I promise ya.."
OOC: Lol, it's cute he thinks it's a spell box X3
IC:
Her face dropped into his shoulders, eyes crying against him as she wept.
She felt ridiculous for having been thrown out into so many terrible emotions, but it was difficult to just digest so much death-
and to realize your family was nothing but a faded memory...
The duchy of Harmond was no more.
And she had to accept that.
Sighing, she drew in a heated breath before releasing it and looking up at him, one hand to his chest as she peered up into his eyes.
"Thank you, Cauwyn. I'm.. I'm sorry I get like this. I guess these things will take time." She tried to force a smile for him, brushing away a few tears as she looked at him.
"But really, I am very grateful you are so patient with me."She sighed, resting her head against his shoulder. "I don't know what i'd do with out you."
OOC: Ugh I kept trying to finish my post but my Mom called XD one of those hour phone calls D:
OOC: I know the feeling!
IC:
When she finally looked up at him, Cauwyn offered a sympathetic smile. His hand gently stroking through her hair as he gave her a small shrug of one shoulder, "You're a woman, cryin' is sorta what ya do.." He said good-naturedly before letting her rest her head a bit more against his chest.
After giving her a moment more to collect herself, Cauwyn stepped back placing a crooked finger under her chin to lift it. He flashed her a broad, and hopefully charming, grin as he winked at her, "Now, come on. Lets get ya a dress an' maybe somethin' more suited for the road, yeah? And, if'n we have time... Maybe we'll stop by the blacksmith an' see about gettin' ya a proper sword?"
That last part came with a bit more of an earnest smile. While shopping wasn't exactly his thing, Cauwyn did like the idea of purchasing new weapons. Or just looking at them. Or just weapons in general.. With that he hooked his arm through hers, intent on leading her through the market.
Katahnia shook her head at his comment about crying and being a woman, but still smiled none the less, brushing away the remainder of her trees as she drew in a steady breath.
"Yes, let's find me something new." she said, and gladly took his arm, chancing only one glance back at the vendor before letting her hope die away as she pressed near his sigh.
Oh, how she wished she had the money or means to procure her mother's music box...
But for now, she needed a dress!
The tailor's shop was full of color and lace, and Katahnia found herself overwhelmed by the choices.
As the tailor examined her, he was surprised her worn clothing had been made of silk.
"Well, if you want a dress of silk, it will cost nearly 20 gold in the simple designs we have over here." he gestured, and her eyes roamed over the fabric. "But if you're looking for something more suitable towards travel, we have a few simpler dresses in wool on the rack in the back. They're only a few silver. Go ahead and have a look and call on me if you need it."
The man gave a polished smile, then bowed off.
Katahnia naturally went to the silk dresses, loving the sheer, but simply designs of one she picked up in a pale violet, not realizing, of course, how much money they had nor what hte consequences of something like this were to cost.
Cauwyn sat on a simple wooden stool near the front of the store, one of three seemingly designed for those men forced into such situations. He paid little mind to what her and the tailor discussed when it came to things like dresses and seams and cloth, those his ears did perk up when the man mentioned the price of a new silk dress. Cauwyn shook his head with a slight chuckle, wondering just what sort of rich fools this town had among its ranks.
And then Katahnia went to look upon the various silks.
He could not stop the groan that escaped him as he watched her eye the sheer fabric with want. While steeling away that little silver spell box would hardly be an issue, even if Cauwyn were able to steal a roll of silk he'd have no way to fashion it into a dress for her. Once again, it seemed, he would have to be the bearer of bad news.
He made to stand and was immediately approached by the tailor, who stopped him before he could take a step from his stool. Cauwyn eyed the man with dubious intent, though the tailor hardly seemed put off by it. If anything it only caused the man to stiffen his resolve, his chest swelling as he somehow managed to look down his nose at Cauwyn even as he looked up at him.
"Your lady has refined tastes," The tailor spoke in a quiet tone, "it would be a shame to disappoint her would it not? The dress she wears, even in it's ragged form, speaks volumes of a woman who is of breeding and coin.." The man blatantly eyed Cauwyn over and gave a little sniff, "Even if she is not in the company of such.."
"Yeah, well," Cauwyn began with a somewhat annoyed whisper, his eyes past the tailor to Katahnia, "she may be all that, but what we ain't is swimmin' in coin. So unless ya want t' make a trade I suggest ya stand aside or you'll lose all business.."
"Ah!" The man held up a cautionary hand as Cauwyn moved to step around him, matching him for step, "Well, let us not be hasty. Perhaps we can make a deal, yes?"
"Yeah, I'm listenin'.." Cauwyn muttered, slowly taking his eyes off Katahnia to look down at the man before him.
"I do not know by what means you have taken this woman," The man spoke quickly and quietly, stealing a glance back at the duchess before he looked back to Cauwyn, "but perhaps, if you were but to share a bit of that company with me I wou--"
Cauwyn stopped the mans sentence when he seized him by the throat. A low growl rumbling from his mouth as the tailors hands instinctively wrapped around Cauwyns thick wrist. His lips moved but no words came out as Cauwyn looked past him to Katahnia, still admiring some odd coloring of the sheer cloth. He turned his attention back to the tailor.
"How 'bout this offer? Ten silver, two copper, an' I let ya keep yer filthy fuckin' tongue. In exchange, ya get 'er one o' them fancy dresses an' some proper travel clothes, yeah?" His words were a low, dangerous growl as he leaned in close to the mans face, hiding his words from Katahnia, "That sound like a fair fuckin' trade?"
Cauwyn pushed the man back roughly, but not hard enough to send him tumbling or to make a scene. His eyes narrowing to a dangerous glare as he waited for the mans response.
The tailor sputtered at the request.
"But that's almost as bad as you strangling my life," he gasped, but quickly recomposed himself, nodding as he stifled back a grimace. "Though, please, just take what you will." he said, glaring at Cauwyn before dusting off his coat. "But just one find dress, one cloak, one travel dress is all."
The man coughed when he was finally able to breath and gestured towards Katahnia.
"Please, just inform me what she chooses and we can.." his brow twitched. "Make the negotiation."
Katahnia was still well lost inside her world of dress, looking at this one and that, picking up a soft green color and not sure which one she ought to wear. Though when she pulled up the last, it was really pretty-t hough simple-
Ivory ontop, gentle violet beneath with skirts that would sweep just at her ankles.
Her eyes sparkled at it.
It was beautiful. ANd it had such pretty sleeves.
Turning to Cauwyn, she beamed.
"Might I try this one on?" she asked, eagerly, clutching the fabric to her breast.
The tailor simply nodded.
"Yes, do knock yourself out." he said, and she nodded, rushing off to try the dress on in the back.
Slipping out of her rags, she slipped herself into the ivory and violet dress and stared at herself in the mirror, pressing the top against her body, since she had not the extra fingers to tie the corset against the back. It showed a bit more cleavage than she was used to..
But it truly was beautiful.
Stepping out, she took a few, bare footed, dainty steps as the dress swished against her legs.
Blushing, she looked over at the two men.
"So.."she began, clutching the skirts lightly in her hands. "How do I look?"
Cauwyn kept his eyes on the tailor, a small growl escaping his throat. He gave a small nod of agreement when he offered forth the deal, though Cauwyn felt it would probably cost him more than he was willing to part. Really, what was so special about these dresses?
When Katahnia addressed them Cauwyn flashed a quick smile, stepping up behind the tailor and placing a strong bruised hand on the mans shoulder. The tailor nodded his compliance and Katahnia slipped off into the back to change. Once again the two shared a long look between each other, both mens eyes heating for different reasons.
When Katahnia returned however, Cauwyns hand slipped away from the tailors shoulder. He had seen more than a few noble women, though usually not from so close. They tended to be a bit too faint of heart when he and his kind were in business arrangements with their husbands. Still, the sight of them had been pretty enough, though Cauwyn had always held to simple means. Their dresses were gaudy and he didn't understand their need to cover themselves in jewels that would be better spent on other endeavors.
Cauwyns mouth hung partially open as he looked upon Katahnia. Her beauty was only heightened by the simple yet elegant dress. Though it wasn't fitted properly, Cauwyn didn't even notice. He stood speechless at the sight of her, barely able to do more then give a small nod of his head.
Glancing up at Cauwyn, the tailor quickly stepped in, "Yes, look radiant darling! Just radiant! Leedra," He clapped his hands and a woman of middle twenty years appeared, bearing the look of beauty beaten down by a hard life and whos only remaining distinguishing mark was the collar around her throat, "Yes, Leeda, help her with her corset yes?" He ushered the slave toward Katahnia, doing his best to admire her in the dress without being too obvious about it, "Your man here says you may have any choice you would like, such as this one, and one more suitable for riding. And of course a cloak for the road.."
The man turned to face Cauwyn who was only beginning to get his speech back. He stepped close, tilting his head up to speak where only Cauwyn could hear, "That is why such things cost what they do.." He said in a low whisper before heading back to his counter.
"Uh, heh, yeah.." Cauwyn stammered, barely registering what the tailor had said as he had yet to look away from Katahnia, "Yeah," He cleared his throat, trying to sound more confident and less like a love struck stable hand, "you look, uh, beautiful.. Truly. That...it... wow, ya look amazin' Kat, just amazin'.."
Katahnia blushed at his compliment.
"Thank you," was all she said, when she found the right words about it, standing there, smiling bashfully as Leedra tightened her corset shut. She fit the dress like a glove; graceful, beautiful, shining.
And that's what she was.
And she stared at him, eyes boring into him as if he were her entire world.
And he was. And the dress... well, it was just another, single step in a world they would make together. Just the two of them...
Lovers in a dream.
After she was fit, she slipped across the room, eyes only for him as she smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck-a nd if it were appropriate, she would have kissed him.
"I'm glad you like it,"she said, trying to tuck back a smile, her green eyes sparkling, cheeks dimpling.
"But I.. suppose we ought not to bore you any further? I.. suppose a travel dress and cloak would be needed as well but.." and then she stared down, realizing-
the only shoes she had on her person were the boots from those dead bandits who tried to...
She looked away at the thought.
"If.. we could procure some better fitting shoes, I fear the ones we have are giving my ankles a bit of a blister."
And then she looked up a thim, wondering if asking for that were ok as she bit her top teeth into her lower lip.
Cauwyn, of course, had little sense for propriety. Once she crossed the room to him and wrapped her arms around him, it was as if everyone else had disappeared. Cauwyn quickly wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close, pressing his lips to hers in an intense but brief kiss.
He too looked down at her feet and gave a small smile, his eyes returning to her with another quick kiss placed upon her forehead, "Of course, new boots as well.." Cauwyn looked past her to the tailor, who only shook his head with narrow eyes. Cauwyn gave the man a flat look, but chose not to press his luck turning his attention back to her.
"But I'm afraid we're quickly running light on coin," He said in a quiet voice, his hand now resting dangerously low on her back as he held her against him, "So I'm 'fraid we'll have t' just get ya a nice pair of travelin' boots an' hope they go well with the dress, yeah? Now, go on. Pick yer self somethin' for the road an a sturdy cloak too. I'll speak t' the tailor, see 'bout payment an' where we can find a cobbler in this town.."
With some reluctance he released her and stepped back, turning his attentions to the tailor. He approached the man, first asking directions for the cobbler before he set about negotiating a fair price for what was owed.
Blushing, Katahnia nodded and obliged.
Stepping away, she looked around the room, fondling over the traveling cloaks and riding attire.
Though the clothing was a lot more out of her range of style, she had no idea how to go about with practicality, and merely samples this cloak and that with a sense of grace and style, eventually finding a soft, ivory cloak would suffice (not considering how dirty a cloak of such color might become) and proceeded on her way to seeking proper riding clothes.
There were things ranging from wool dresses, skirt sets and pants. She was curious which attire was most appropriate, fingers tracing over the rougher material with a bit of a cringe. Leather this and cotton that. But which would be most appropriate? She had no idea and simply stared at them until her eyes fell across a simple riding dress, worn loosely over the mannequin it lay across, with a simple pair of riding pants beneath. It merely looked like a dress that flared out beneath the breast with a small, detachable fur trimmed hood on it.
It was made of wool, but would do well, and was a simply brown color.
The pants were an off-white, nearly cream color.
Plucking them into her arms, she made her way over towards Cauwyn's side with a blush.
"I.. I hope the coin we offer is acceptable."seh said, blushing as she raised her eyes at the tailor, then flickered a bashful gaze over at Cauwyn, then away.
She did feel a little guilty.
She knew neither of them had much coin, yet Cauwyn had still insisted they purchase the clothes...
Cauwyn approached the tailor as Katahnia went back to pick out more suitable riding clothing as well as a cloak of her own. The two men argued quietly in hushed tones, Cauwyn at one point leaning against the counter as his hands gripped it in white knuckled anger. The back and forth went on for a bit until finally, as Katahnia arrived with her choices, Cauwyn was pulling the sack of coins from his belt to pay the man.
He put down one heavy gold coin, a silver and two coppers onto the counter, sliding them forward as the tailor greedily scooped them into hand. The tailor flashed a quick, somewhat smug smile to Katahnia before bowing his head.
"Oh yes, quite dear.. Quite.." He shot the same look to Cauwyn who only responded with a slight growl and a glare that could shoot daggers. A signal from the man brought the slave forward again, quiet as a mouse, as the tailor returned a more affectionate smile on Katahnia, "And which shall you be wearing out, madam? I will have my slave package up the rest for you.. And you," He looked at Cauwyn with an appraising eye, "What shall we be getting for you?"
"What?" Cauwyn scowled, his voice gruff as he eyed the man. He eyed his own clothing, perhaps a little thread bare though at least clean. The sleeves of his tunic held more than a few holes, as did the hems at the end of his pants, though they were thankfully tucked into worn, old leather boots, "What's wrong with m' clothes? I don't need anythin' new..:
OOC: Gosh, typical guy wearing something until the entire THING is a hole XP
IC:
Katahnia thought about what the tailor said and turned to Cauwyn.
"I.. I suppose which ever is more appropriate. Will we be riding today?" she looked at him curiously, but then when the tailor mentioned that Cauwyn ought to get new clothes, she looked at his own tattered ones and gave a smile, but tired to hide it behind her hand.
SHaking her head, she approaching him and slipped her arms around his snugly.
"But your clothing is worn, too. Do you not think it wise to get something with er, less holes in it?" she teased, poking one finger into a hole near his arm pit as she wrinkled her nose at him playfully.
OOC: But thats when it's the MOST comfortable *whines*
IC:
"Yes.." Cauwyn said slowly, looking toward the door though his thoughts turned back to the spell-box he hadn't been able to buy her, "we'll be ridin', a bit later though.."
He looked back between the two with a frown as Katahnia seemed to jump onto the side of the tailor, who was just a bit too smug about it for Cauwyns liking. When she fingered the hole in his shirt, he shot her a scowl, turning and clamping his arm down over the hole. Then noticing one on the opposite shoulder, Cauwyn tried to cover it with his hand while maintaining a natural pose. Really though, he looked more like a shocked maiden at a spring than anything natural with the way his arm covered his body.
"M' clothes are just fine.." He said in what he would never admit to as a bit of a pout, "I've had these fer months! When I was a kid, I'd wear th' same thing for season's atta time!"
The tailor only smirked and gave a small snort, walking back around the counter to give Cauwyns clothing the dire attention it deserved. Of course, his words were only for Katahnia as he spoke, as she was obviously the only one of importance when it came to Cauwyns clothing.
"Hmm, we have some of the latest fashions from Kia's Court it's self, madam.." He mused to the woman as he gave Cauwyn the appraising eye, leaning conspiratorially close to her, "As well as the typical Connloathian attire. In fact, I have a full section put together from some of the finest pelts! And our buckskin is twice treated, for that soft and supple feeling.." He turned from Cauwyn, now nearly completely ignoring the man, "In fact, that extra space sewn for a mans bits on many of our trousers has been enlarged just enough to provide for a bit of padding.."
"I'm right here!" Cauwyn growled, looking between the two, "An' I don't need no paddin'! Hey! An' why are ya talkin' t' her 'bout my clothes!"
The tailor paid Cauwyn no mind, gently taking Katahnia by the upper arm and leading her toward some clothes, "And over here we have a lovely selection of shirts.. Everything suitable for the young noble on the go or perhaps a farmer looking to dapper himself up!"
"Hey!" Cauwyn was left standing by the counter with the slave, who only looked at the ground in an attempt to hide her smile, "By the hells! Hey! I'm tellin' ya I don't need no paddin'!" He managed to both growl and yell as he followed after the two.
Katahnia was far too amused by the idea of purchasing Cauwyn clothes that, it only sought to amuse her more he seemed agitated over the matter. Giggling, she followed the tailor around the shop and admired a few pants and shirts she thought were very handsome, though as she examined them, she had to sigh as she peered over at her lover.
"I don't know, these seem too refined for him," she scrutinized him with her eyes, a fist curled to her chin as she took him in. "You got anything more rough?" She smirked, almost leering Cauwyn openly as the tailor happily lead her towards the riding and traveling garb. Though when her eyes caught to a simple off-white tunic and dark brown pant set, she turned to pause, staring at it admirably and envisioned her man would look most handsome in it.
Turning to Cauwyn, she blushed a little, and wondered, in silence, if he caught a look at the garb she was admiring.
She didn't know why, but in it,s eh could see the transformation from simple road 'rogue' to an aspiring, silver-brush anointed knight.
"Yes.." The tailor grumbled his agreement to her assessment of the clothing. Most of these clothes were too refined for the brutes tastes. He cast a somewhat snobbish glance back at Cauwyn, and then followed along with Katahnia, "Perhaps something more earthy and....common?"
Cauwyn for his part was unaware of what it was they were actually looking at, though his eyes never left the pair. While he had stopped covering himself, his hands now rested gently on the pommel of his sword and the head of his axe, his fingers drumming impatiently on the pommel of his blade.
When Katahnia looked back at him hopefully, she was met with a simple flat look. He was set in his decision about his clothes. They were good clothes, and he didn't see the need to replace them. Besides, he was sure the tailor would only charge them yet another outrageous price. Still, he did want her to be happy..
He sighed heavily and dragged himself over to what she was looking at, his lips curling into a slight frown. Cauwyn turned his attention to the clothing she had picked to which he seemed rather unimpressed, "Really? It's so... I don't know, soft looking.."
Cauwyn really had nothing bad to say about the clothing, more the fact that he was being forced to endure the torture of buying new clothes. As a man who chose his clothing for practical purposes, he had never had much if any eye for what might actually look good or not. His attention had always laid with his armor, which was all he really cared about when it came to looks.
"Fine." He grunted, folding his arms across his chest and looking to the tailor, "It's fine. We'll take it, if'n it makes 'er happy, yeah?"
Katahnia caught his look and looked away, sheepishly, before chancing a glance back at him again, fingers falling away from the garment. But when he suddenly changed his mind, grumbling about buying it, she only blushed.
"Oh, you don't have to buy it on my account." Katahnia pressed, hand to her chest. Though, her smile crept a little wider as she looked at his worn clothes, able to see the holes now since they had been pointed out. "Though it would be practical for you to atleast get something- if not those clothes of yours mended, perhaps at least a vest to overlap the holes?" If he really was not happy with them, perhaps there was some sort of compromise, after all, as much as she would like to see him in something a bit... more stylish, there was a bit of charm to the way he wore his worn clothes that made him handsome as he were.
Cauwyn did what he did best, he grumbled unpleasantly about the whole thing. The tailor however, sensing coin to be made, perked up somewhat at Katahnias idea and stepped forward, bowing slightly between the two.
"If I may," He spoke softly, "perhaps the lady is right? If you are... sure, you do not wish a new wardrobe, then perhaps simply something to make yours better might do?"
After another thirty minutes of shopping, Cauwyn left the store with a simple leather vest to cover the holes in his clothing. Not that there were any, as he had somehow been talked into a simple quarter sleeved tunic and also a pair of patchwork leather pants in the typical Connloathian style. Also he had spent another five silvers on the whole thing, though he did have to admit the pants felt much more comfortable than those he had worn before.
With one arm securely wrapped around Katahnias and the other holding the packaged bundle of her new nice dress and cloak under the other, they stepped back out into the market more coins lighter than he would have wanted. The man had offered them a good bit of coin for her old dress as well, though Cauwyn had refused without explanation, having it tucked away into the packaging of her other dress.
"Now," He cleared his throat, moving his head somewhat unused to the high-necked collar of his new vest, "if'n ya still want, we can see about sellin' a few of the things ya had acquired from those fucks back at your castle, an' see 'bout gettin' ya a proper sword an' such.."
Katahnia felt much better when Cauwyn caved in to buy at least something, and the new vest seemed more his style. Her fantasy now alluded, she kept at his side as they exited the tailor's, her eyes ever watchful of the market.
At his suggestion, she simply nodded, then admired him a moment in his vest.
"You look nice," she said, stealing a quick kiss to his cheek before moving on ahead, pulling him along with. "So where should we go first?" She was in high spirits, with her new riding clothes, she looked to fit in much better than a woman wearing a ratted dress, but even still, her beauty and blonde hair stood out amongst the crowd. She hummed softly as they walked, recalling the tune from the music box before she caught sight of a black smith's over in the corner, a butcher in the other, and a few skins stretched infront of the tanners.
"Did you want to go to the blacksmiths?" she pointed towards it. "Or.. well.. where do we need to go to sell those items first?" she was not sure how trade exactly worked out here. It was much different to read about trade than it was to act within it.
It was hard not to be swept up in her bubbly attitude, even if they had spent more on clothing than he had planned to spend for the entire day of shopping. Still, as she pulled him through the market, a smile donned Cauwyns face and he found himself admiring and somewhat enjoying Katahnia in her new dress. Sure, it didn't show as much as the last one and didn't cling to her as well, but he truly doubted there was anything she couldn't make look beautiful.
"Yes, the blacksmith.." Cauwyn nodded, indicating toward the open barn of a shop it a thrust of his head. As they approached the air began to fill with the loud clangs of a hammers on steel, and steel on the grind stone. It was the smell of the fire and the sweat and the steel that brought his memory back to his time spent with the blacksmith in Adela, their time together and the cruel fate she had received.
Cauwyn shook such thoughts from his head as he approached a rather large man who was working the forge. Before Cauwyn could speak however, the man pointed at a door indicating the shop was inside. Cauwyn thanked him with a nod of his head, glad they would not be showered in sparks as they bartered, and led Katahnia into the shop.
Once inside, Cauwyn made short work of getting their items sold. He sold nearly everything they had recovered to the blacksmith, to include Katahnias sword, for nearly eighty gold and a blade of their choosing. He had, however, refused to mention that infernal brush of hers. Though he hated the thing, he would not see her part with it.
"Well now," Cauwyn said with a smile, turning to his lover, "it seems we have finally made a decent deal. Please, pick out somethin' nice, yeah? That you'll feel comfortable carryin' an' usin' if'n ya have to.."
OOC: I'd make a more detailed post but I am tired D:
IC:
Katahnia studied the room, impressed with the array of swords and weapons before them that hung on the wall or lay cradled in a bed, some even were still hot and lying on a table, their heat evident by the rise of temperature in the air.
She stared at them, impressed, then moved on to a small sword that caught her eye. It was a simple design, but still held a sense of grace about it. She admired it before removing it and holding it in her hand, testing the weight, then turning and playfully jabbing Cauwyn's new leather vest.
"What do you think?" she said, testing out a few twirls with it of her wrist, the blade turning into a spiral of silver before him before she steadied it, the fire's glow dancing across it's tip.
"Do you think this sort of sword is appropriate for a girl like me?" she challenged, eyes dancing as she looked at him with a sly grin.
Cauwyn for once was like a kid in a candy shop. Eyeing the various swords, maces and axes without pause. His attention stolen away by every new sword that caught his vision. And then Katahnia grabbed up a sword and began twirling it about, poking at his new clothes with it before pointing it at him with a sly grin. Cauwyn gently put his hand on the blade and pushed it aside, stepping forward as he spoke to her in a calm quiet tone, "Ya shouldn't point a blade at somethin' or someone 'less ya intend t' kill 'em.." He cautioned her, then smiled as he ran his fingers over the blade, testing what bit of weight he felt while she was holding it.
"It's comfortable, yeah? Feels good in your hands?" He stepped back and out of the way so she could practice with it a bit more if she wanted, "How's the weight? Does it feel right? Too heavy up front or in th' pommel? Feel like ya could use it for a while without gettin' too tired?"
Katahnia became sheepish at his comment about killing and the blade.
"Naturally, I wouldn't want to use a blade to kill you," she teased, blushing still as she lowered her weapon, admiring it then began to test the weight in her hand. She turned around, testing out it's swing as she gave a few graceful sweeps and jousts towards the shadows. It felt alright, much more comfortable than that heavy blade they had been practicing on, but quickly she spun around, hair spilling over her shoulders as she paused.
"It feels alright, but I wonder what other toys they have to offer?" she questioned, playfully and set the sword, blade down, handle leaning against the middle wooden table inside the room as she began to examine a few of the other blades inside the room, checking to see if any other ones might be of a similar style and weight to try out.
"Well I thank ya for..." Cauwyn paused as she turned and started practicing with her sword. A small frown crept up onto his face as he considered what she had said. When she put the sword down and started looking at other weapons, he slipped up behind her again with a curious look on his face, "What do ya mean ya wouldn't use a blade t' kill me? You been plottin' t' kill me princess, is that what's goin' on?"
He chuckled softly and walked along with her, pausing to pick up and try a few different weapons himself. In honesty Cauwyn preferred swords shorter than the one he carried, if only because they we easier to use and he felt a bit more effective. His bastard sword had reach and with both hands on the handle it had power, but both those same things could be found in a smaller and more maneuverable sword.
He picked up a simple looking gladius. The hilt and pommel were both dark stained wood while the handle its self was a much lighter, ivory color. Cauwyn frowned a little at that, his hand briefly brushing along the leather wrapped handle of his own blade in knowledge of how dark and slick the wood handle would become once it was soaked with blood and sweat. Though it did have a few interesting ridges. He spun the blade, admiring the balance and the fact it didn't fly from his hand, and then set it back on the table with a few of the others.
Katahnia smirked when he questioned her, and she turned to him with a playful thrust at the air, knowing she was far enough away from him that nobody would get hurt.
"Do you think I'd plot something so sinister?" she inquired, smiling sheepishly again before looking down at the blade in her hand. She made a few more distinguishing sweeps of her arm, a few more quick jobs before nodding.
"I think this blade ought to do. It feel a bit lighter and the handle feels easier to grip in my hand- I don't have to clench it as tightly as the other." She smiled, holding onto the blade as she watched Cauwyn choose a weapon for himself, testing it as well.
"So what other items did you want to look at here? Just a few swords?"
Cauwyn looked up from where he was studying a few various swords and flashed Katahnia a grin, eyeing her as she thrust a new sword she had found with a bit of a flourish, "I should hope not. I don't think I'd much like bein' on the other side of your sword.."
When she said it was the blade she preferred, Cauwyn turned from the rack and walked over to her, eyeing the blade in her hand. It seemed well made enough, and he gave a small nod of approval. Cauwyn put a gentle hand on her shoulder and leaned in close, kissing the top of her head.
"If'n that's the one ya want. The man gave us a good deal on what we turned over, said ya can have the pick of the store, so long as ya aren't tryin' to bankrupt 'im.." He shrugged at that last bit, assuming the man had meant having a custom sword forged. His attention drifted around the room, seeing if any blade caught his eye. A few managed, though none really jumped out at him. Cauwyn patted the pommel of the sword at his hip, looking back to Katahnia.
"Nah, I don't think there be anything here for me.." He shook his head slightly, "The sword I got's just fine, for now. Not quite so fond of these kindsa blades, yeah? Up north, the swords we make are little more... simple. More just for killin' without all th' extra. Even this one," He hefted his own sword (http://www.odinblades.com/Gallery/CelticDragon.htm#gallerypics/Swords/Main/celticdragon/1.jpg) slightly from it's place in the scabbard showing the simple dragon design formed on the rather simple upturned hilt before letting it slide back home in its sheath, "is a bit much. My old sword," He sighed at the memory, smiling wistfully, "she was beautiful.. Simple, but effective.. An' as for the rest? Well, my axe is good, m' shield was just recently fixed, an' the spears new.."
He looked around, eyeing a few of the axes briefly before he shook his head to clear away the indecisive thoughts of a kid in a candy store, just wanting to buy everything. He again smiled at Katahnia and nudged her toward the counter, "C'mon, we'll get that for ya an' then we can be on our way. Gave that boy Harold a few coin t' get us some provisions for the road, so they should be ready when we get back.."
OOC: I thought I posted for this- I guess I read it and never replied D:
and now I'm tired ;_;
*goes to post anyway*
IC:
Katahnia nodded when he said he was fine with his supplies.
"Alright, then this one it is."s he said, lifting it up and studying it against the fire's glow that burned hotly so the man could do his metal work. Then turning, the two would exit once the transaction was complete, heading back towards 'The Woman's Chest'; which again, made Katahnia stop and stare and blush even. It was awkward to think... it was barely a week and she found this man, had fallen for him and... somehow she ended up losing herself to him at 'The Woman's Chest'. Biting into her lower lip, she figured not to dwell on it for too long as the pair stepped inside, but she still felt.. guilty.
She was not married to Cauwyn,a nd he wasn't noble- but on the other hand, she had nothing left to go back to on her former life. Instinctively, she took his hand, squeezing it as the pair approached Hilde at the front desk, who eyed them like a vulture, craning out her neck.
"'So's yous two ready to vacate that room? We've got a waitin' list for rooms and Harold was tellin' me you two would be shippin' out."
Harold, at the mention of his name, peered out from behind the back door near Hilde, and sheepishly caught sight of the pair, but only had eyes for Kat.
Katahnia nodded. "Yes, we just came back to get our supplies. THen the room will be open again."
Her cheeks burned at the thought-
they were leaving the area they had both consummated their relationship, and a chill raced up her spine, but she steeled it off and waited for the supplies, thoughts mulling through her head.
Yes, she would never forget this place....
'The Woman's Chest'.
She wouldn't help but smile as she peered up, noticing the bed post sticking through the ceiling, then pressed hre lips together, averting her eyes for it as her cheeks dimpled.
Well now.. it was something to remember-
especially since she and Cauwyn, sorta, kinda maybe did that...
And that's when the old crow wagged her finger.
"And don't think we will forget what you all did here."
Katahnia jumped, embarrassed that hte woman brought it up in such a lewd way.
And an old drunkard nearby laughed as well, and the old man from earlier, too, the one whom he and his wife gifted Katahania with her 'gown'.
"Yes, this town will surely never forget," the drunkard said, raising his mug in their honor, the old man did too.
"Glad to see the gifts worked well," the old man added.
And the pair laughed, while Katahnia's face turned red like a tomato.
Cauwyn took her hand in his as they returned into the inn. He and Hilde traded dark glances, but no words were said between them as Katahnia seemed to take charge. And Cauwyn had a mind to let her, he'd rather not speak to that crone again.
As she spoke he released her hand, considering purchasing another drink before they left. Deciding against it however, Cauwyn placed his hand gently on her lower back, studying the room. When he saw her eyes travel to the bedpost that hung from the ceiling, Cauwyn did a much worse job of hiding the proud grin that spread along his lips. His hand dipped low then, from the small of her back, and gave Katahnias ass a gentle squeeze.
His eyes were twinkling with mirth when everyone started up, however. Ruining the special moment he had planned to share with her. He frowned, mostly at the old woman, but then at the others though only because it made Katahnia uncomfortable. When he was certain Kat couldn't see, he flashed the older gentlemen a grin and a wink before schooling his face back into a dark scowl.
"Yeah, yeah," He groaned before turning that scowl onto the old woman, "I'm sure ya will. Now, is our horse an' supplies ready?"
"Yeah, they be ready.." She grumbled an gestured to Harold, who perked up and flashed Katahnia a bright proud smile before leading them out the door and back to the stables.
As Cauwyn and Katahnia followed after, a grin formed once more as he looked down at Katahnia. Harold held the door and as they exited Cauwyn gave Katahnia's ass a gentle smack before the door closed on the laughter of those in side. He leaned in close, whispering in her ear and hoping she wouldn't hit him too hard, "Fuck 'em. Let 'em be jealous.."
Katahnia gave a start when he squeezed her ass, but had no time to retort , yet when they were outside and he hit it, she turned around to glare at him.
"C-Cauwyn!"though the smile was hard to erase as she tried to chastise him. "Really, what manners!" she said, then through her nose up into the air and merely left him at the door, approaching the small stable where their horse had been 'parked'. Working at untethering him, she paid not much mind to what happened inside, and tried to focus on the road ahead.
"So now that we're prepared for travel, what's next on our little adventure?" she said, turning around to him with a wide smile, a dance in her eyes and love curling across her lips.
"Well, I know what I want to do.." He said as he slid up against her, wrapping his arms around her waist beneath her cloak and pulling her close. He smiled down at her before placing a few kisses on those soft lips. Eventually though he did pull away, with a heavy sigh, and gestured to that stupid horse, "I suppose though, we should get on the road. Do you know how far it is to your uncles?"
Not that he minded the travel. In fact, he hoped they would have another night to spend together at the least. There was another reason though, one he wouldn't openly share with Katahnia. Cauwyn full well planned to come back to the town at night, search out that old woman from the market place, and steal the spell box for Katahnia.
Katahnia blushed at the kiss, but did not object, smiling even softer, more lovingly when he had to pull away.
"Yes, I suppose we should be on our way."
Turning around, she guided the horse outside the stable, for it would be easier to mount, and thought over his question.
"Well, with a horse, perhaps not much further- though it was always a few days travel- and well.. all I can hope for is he isn't dead as well." She felt a bit nervous for that, but.. even if he were, she had to find out one way or another.
Slipping up, onto the saddle of the horse, she peered over at Cauwyn and waited for him to join her.
"We can just follow the same road we came in on, and just keep heading north."
"I suppose we should follow the road.." Cauwyn said, breaking away from the stare he had formed while watching her mount the horse. He blinked a few times, flashed her a quick smile, and then hopped up onto the horse. He was much more graceful this time around, though it still took him a moment to settle himself into the saddle. Once situated, Cauwyn held out his hand to Harold who handed up his heavy iron tipped spear with a small sad look as his eyes stayed on Katahnia.
"But, lets take it slow, yeah?" Cauwyn offered quietly behind her ear before turning his head to give the side of her neck a quick kiss. He wrapped his free hand around her waist, holding on tight enough to pull her hips back against his. This whole horse thing wasn't so bad, he supposed, and a smile still clung to his lips as he spoke close to her ear once again, "No need t' rush. Let's see what th' road has t' offer us outside this town, yeah? Maybe we can find a nice place t' camp for one more night?"
Kathahnia shivered at his words against her ear. And at the idea, she felt her heart do somersaults. Smiling back at him she nodded.
"I suppose there really is no rush," she quipped, then nodded, smiling politely to Harold and they were on their way.
The road was busier when they were near town, but as they grew farther and farther away, the people began to thin out and eventually, Katahnia found herself growing hungry and guided the horse off the path to a nearby stream.
"THis would make a lovely spot to eat and relax for the afternoon."s he told him, and the horse let out a noise, seeming to agree but giving Cauwyn a wary expression- after all, now that the pair were not inside stinky hotel, the horse could keep close watch on this one!
As they rode through town, the people eyed them with a mixture of curiosity and fear. People on horseback were not exactly common, as few commoners had such means. The two of them hardly looked like commoners in their new clothes however, though he doubted anyone would believe them a Duchess and newly indoctrinated knight.
When they came to the stream, Cauwyn smiled at the idea of having a picnic, if only because he would be off this blasted horse and able to be close to Katahnia. Well, he was already close, but their positioning prevented him from stealing the kisses he wanted. As Cauwyn climbed down a bit stiffly, he held his hand out to help his princess down.
Once she was down he stole a kiss, hot and quick and passionate, slapped her rear one more time and then began unloading provisions from their saddle bag. It was harder said than done however as the horse continued to side step and shift away from him causing Cauwyn to keep up with the beast. All the while the animals head was cocked inward, trying to get close to Cauwyn.
No matter how many times he did it, it was always jarring to her, taking her by surprise, each time he slapped her ass. "C-Cauwyn!" and yes, as usual, she would reprimand him and give him a quick look and a fierce burn would grace her cheeks. But then she'd shake her head of it and simply walk away, eyeing up a good spot for a picnic andsmiled when she saw a large, flat area of grass and helped Cauwyn to set up a blanket and their supplies while the horse was tethered nearby.
The horse stared at them contemplatively while it chewed on some grass, all the while Katahnia was enjoying the warmth of the fading sun (as it was already quickly growing to late afternoon, and even one could say evening would approach within the next hour); but even still, the simple meal of dried bread and meat was enough to suffice and after she had her fill, or enough of it, she laid out casually on the blanket, blonde hair spilling some into the grass as she looked up at the clouds, and wrinkled her nose as she pointed out.
"That cloud, the one over there, see it?" she said, tilting her head to Cauwyn. "It looks like a duck." she said,a nd attempted to making duck lips before laughing.
And every time she jumped and chastised him, Cauwyn looked away as though he were ashamed though really he was just hiding his grin. And of course, as soon as she would move away he would start to quietly laugh.
Cauwyn enjoyed his meal alongside Katahnia. Though he enjoyed her company, it also served another purpose. He was pretty sure it made the horse jealous, which was a nice added bonus. In the breaks in quiet conversation he and the beast would trade stares. His intense and challenging, the beasts idle and unimpressed. At the end of their meal, when Katahnia spread out on the blanket, Cauwyn quickly swept up beside her, joining her gaze at the clouds.
"Really?" He frowned, trying to see it. After a moment it came to him, though he didn't start laughing until he saw her duck face. He couldn't resist, puckering his lips in the same and giving her a quick duck kiss before looking back to the clouds in the failing light. He grinned, pointing at another cloud, "There, that one looks kind like a ballista! Or, maybe a crossbow.. Some kinda bow thing at least.."
Katahnia could not help herself but laughed through the kiss, wrinkling her nose and rolling onto her belly as she smiled at him and gave him a real kiss, then returned to laying on her side beside him, cheek to cheek as she stared up at the clouds.
"And that one, over there," she said, pointing. "It almost looks like a castle..."
and as she thought about it- it almost looked like a ruined castle..
her ruined castle and her face fell a little-
she tried to hide it under a sad laugh.
"And that one over there, it looks like a dragon."s he said, most amused, though mostly amused to hide any fragility in her emotions-
after all, picking out images in the clouds was meant to be fun, not something somber.
Cauwyn smiled a little at the castle, though it only took a moment for him to see the ruin in it. He almost didn't look at her, hoping maybe she hadn't seen it. If he didn't look, and she hadn't seen it, maybe he could pretend he hadn't either. When she spoke about the dragon however, he heard it. He heard the slight knot in her throat and tremble in her amused voice. Though he had only known her a few days, his chest fell when he recognized those tell-tale signs.
Now it was his turn to roll onto his side, nestled up against her. He offered her a small, sad smile as he gently laid a hand to her stomach. He was quiet a moment, both thinking and steadying his own nerve. Finally, when he did speak, his voice was low and concerned.
"I know a lot 'bout loss, princess... but I ain't ever felt what you are, I don't think.." He said with a soft, wan smile, "An' you gotta be one of the strongest broads I ever met, 'cause I don't think I got th' patience or the restraint t' be as calm as you. I know it ain't 'cause you ain't hurtin', I know that. I don't know, I just think... well," He sighed, frowning slightly as he started to stumble in his words. Speaking like this wasn't his strong suit. He could be poetic, he could be charming, but speaking from the heart wasn't something he was good at, "Well, it's just.. You're pro'lly 'bout one of the strongest people I've known. Mind wise. Ya are pretty amazin', an' well... I just want ya t' know, I'm proud t' know ya, yeah?"
To see his eyes, to feel his concern within them had her swimming, crashing up on a high of emotions as a few tears sparkled in her eyes, one even slipping hotly down her cheeks which she, when turning away, bashfully blushed away with a smile.
Then, turning back to him, she gave him another smile, still forced, but a smile she tried to warm for him all the same as she set her hand upon his as it rested on her belly.
"Really, Cauwyn, I was talking about dragons. Clearly dragons are far more stronger than I. I mean, have you ever seen a dragon cry?" she tried to change the subject and make light on it and to laugh, but the hurt for her dead duchy and it's ideals still remained, only coated by the pleasantries of the playfulness of her words.
But when she smiled again, this time it was real as she leaned forward and kissed him right upon the lips with need.
"But thank you." she spoke, keeping herself close to his so tehy were mere inches away. "It means the world to me that I found someone to be so supportive of me doing this time of need." She smiled again, her cheeks flushing a little. "Perhaps that's why I've fallen for you so quickly." and her eyes flickered, sparkled even as she tried to read deeper into him, as if to his very soul a she leaned forward, almost kissing him again.
"Cauwyn, would it surprise you to tell you I think I'm falling in love?"
they had.. touched on the issue before but...
that was during a different circumstance- and now, with neither brains so heated on passion- she felt her heart beating as strongly as it had been before.
"I.. have to admit, I have never felt such strong feelings fo ra person before."s he continued, squeezing his hands lightly beneath her own.
"And it gives me that strength and courage to want to press on, even if it means I make another life for myself now... it's nice knowing I could, perhaps, someday share that whole adventure with you."
"Yes," He spoke quietly as he stared down into her eyes, his own smile was somewhat forced if only for her benefit. While she had taken away the lighthearted mood of the day, Cauwyn refused to let her know. Or at least let it look as though she had done it, so he forced his smile and spoke in quiet words unbroken by the growing lump in his throat, "yeah I've seen a dragon cry, an believe me you' re a lot tougher 'en that dragon.."
She was so beautiful. Even when she was sad, it was how he imagined all those people who collected art must feel when they look at it. But this beauty was real. It was living and breathing and could laugh and when she leaned up and kissed him Cauwyn couldn't stop the moan of pleasure that followed. He followed her down half way, not wanting to break the kiss but in the end he pulled back and offered a smile.
When she leaned back forward for another kiss, Cauwyn was ready to supply. But instead she stopped and his eyes opened with curiosity just before she said that she loved him again. Now, without his dick to tell him how he felt, Cauwyn was forced to flip through his own emotions to try and figure it out. But again she saved him, speaking on about how she felt and giving a voice to the very things he was feeling.
"I feel th' same way, princess. I want t' go t' sleep with ya every night just t' look forward to wakin' up next t' ya. I want to listen to ya cry an' stuff 'cause I hope, I hope, it makes ya feel better. An' I wanna be the one that makes ya feel better.." His own hand tightened inside of hers, giving her fingers a gentle sqeeze, "And I wanna gut any man, woman or child that makes ya hurt.. I want t' do all those things for ya, princess, and I ain't never wanted that before, yeah?"
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh at his statement a little about harming women and children on her behalf. She shook her head.
"Goodness, should I fear for our children if we ever have any?" she teased, wrinkling her nose at him as she smiled, then before he could answer, she stole another kiss.
"I'm glad I found you," she said, breathing through a sigh as she kept her face close to his, just mere inches away and curved her fingers into his hair. "My knight... my love... my friend..." And her eyes grew heavy as she leaned forward, and sealed her lips to his.
OOC: Woo, short post since i just woke up 8D
Cauwyn reveled in the kiss, letting their lips linger together for a time. His hand uncurled on her stomach releasing her hand. He ran his hand up to her breast and then over her side and down to her hip. Cauwyn pressed himself against her and with eyes close his hand curled then to grip her waist.
With a reluctant sigh he pulled his lips away, his eyes slowly fluttering open. He smiled down at her, but his looked turned to a skeptically wry grin as he pulled his head back farther, "Found me? I think it's me that found you, yeah? An' I gotta say, best thing I've ever found.." He gave her waist a little squeeze, leaning back in and pressing his lips against hers.
"Cauwyn!"
Though at his comment about finding her, she merely shook her head, not arguing a she smiled, lips meeting to his as her heart soared and fluttered inside her chest.
"Yes, but if I hadn'tve encased myself in crystal, you might not have ever had that opportunity," she tried to point out, but her lips were magnetized to his as she leaned forward, kissing him again.
"Mm, that is a good point, princess.." He practically moaned the words as he spoke without ever really pulling his lips from hers. He pressed back against her, intent to take this farther, when the horse gave a loud snort. Cauwyn thought nothing of it of course, as the horse was just trying to ruin his moment he was sure.
That's when he felt something wet on his head. He froze, trying to consider just what could be happening. Slowly he pulled away and angled his head up in time to feel a sharp tug at his hair. He gasped more from shock than any real pain and tumbled away in time to see their horse just above them. It eyed Cauwyn, menacingly he was sure, as it slowly worked it's jaw back and forth as though it had been eating grass.
"T' the hells with ya, you damn beast!" Cauwyn practically roared as he came to his feet, rubbing at his head. His hair was thick with horse saliva, giving him a large cowlick in the back. He growled, pointing an accusatory finger at the all too smug looking horse, "Ya tried t' eat my head! Did ya see that? That damn horse is tryin' to eat me!"
The kiss, or the entire mood really, was broken the moment the horse let out a snort. With half lidded eyes, she stared over at Cauwyn, however, when the horses shadow loomed over head, she blinked and soon was flinching as she realized what had transpired. And all she could do was stare. And stare and stare and stare before suddenly her body gave a jolt, hands buried over her lips to hide the growing, curling smile upon her lips and the giggle that soon followed. But soon the smile reached her eyes, and was too much for one hand to cover as she pressed two over her lips but could not stop laughing,a nd in fact, she began to laugh so hard she was curling up against her knees, eyes filled with tears and belly aching to suppress it before finally her hands dropped away and she just let herself laugh and laugh.
"I'm.. I'm so sorry... C-Cauwyn, but your hair it-" and again, she found herself laughing.
"Do.. do you want my brush?" she giggled, eyes still dancing with tears spawned from laughter.
"No, I don't need yer damn brush!" Cauwyn snapped as Katahnia fell over in laughter! Apparently she didn't see the seriousness of the situation! Their horse was trying to eat him, and apparently Katahnia was hunky-dory with that idea! He scowled at both of them, which earned him another snort from the horse as it pawed the ground near Katahnia. It made no move closer to her, but simply watched Cauwyn with a clear message. A message that it would not stand for his paws all over its woman.
Cauwyn looked at Katahnia, who seemed to be in tears over this. Not good, sympathetic tears that showed her concern for him and earned him those points that every man wanted. No, these were tears of laughter, tears of a traitor. His scowl may have been half-joking when it came to her, but it was no joking when he focused on the horse, "I'll fuckin' eat ya, yeah!? Ya get that, beast? I'll cook ya up an' eat ya!"
The horse seemed unimpressed with Cauwyns threats as it casually plucked some grass from next to Katahnia, looking for all the world the innocent victim of some mad-man. Especially as it lazily chewed the grass, staring at Cauwyn with smug eyes as he tried to smooth down his wet hair with his hands. The last thing he needed was to have Katahnia attack him with that damnable silver hell-brush of hers!
When Katahnia finally composed herself, she gave one final chuckle as she rose to her knees, sighing as she admired Cauwyn and his... hair.
Another giggle came out as she sighed a second time and stroked the long nose of her horse.
"Cauwyn..." she began, having a hard time containing her smile, but she did, tucking it away somehow. "Are you sure you don't need any help with... that?" and here she raised a single brow at him skeptically- it seemed he was having a hard time with that fly away cow-lick....
or would this be considered a horse-lick?
Cauwyns anger was hardly sated by yelling at the horse. If anything, the smug look of the animal as Katahnia gently rubbed its nose only served to rile him up more. After all, he was the victim here! Why wasn't she rubbing HIS nose?! Though the mental image answered the question, Cauwyn refused to listen to his own mind.
"No," He wasn't pouting, because Cauwyn didn't pout. It only sounded like he was, "I don't need no help. I got it.." He continued to NOT pout as he rubbed forcefully at his hair. When it still wasn't working, Cauwyn simply strolled casually down to the waters edge and dunked his whole head. When he came back up with a gasp he shook his head and then brushed the hair out of his eyes.
Cauwyn stood and then walked back up to the two, now giving them his smuggest look, "See? I'm fine. Handled it. Without your demon brush!" Despite how proud he seemed, the horse gave a quick snort and then began rubbing its head against Katahnia. Because it hated Cauwyn, he knew it!
The horse looked not impressed, and Katahnia could only tuck back a smile as she looked at Cauwyn, admiring his wet head with a slow shake of her own.
"I suppose that's one way to avert my brush, but hear me now, Sir Cauwyn, before the night is over, I will have my brush running through your hair."
Smirking, she looked over at her partner and crime and the horse almost seemed to smile, then gave Cauwyn a most sinister glare.
OOC: lol... the horse.. we really need to give him a name.
OOC: Yeah we do! I'm sure if you ask Cauwyn, Spawn or the Evil-One would be good choices!
IC:
"Hardly.." Cauwyn started to counter Katahnia's threat with one of his own, but he was distracted. Distracted by the sinister stare of a beast strait from the bowels of hell! Cauwyn glared at the animal and then looked at Katahnia with an almost pleading look, gesturing to the beast with both of his hands, "Look! Look at it! It's plottin' against me!"
Cauwyn scowled at the horse who continued to look, well, unimpressed.. Cauwyn scowled harder to no avail, even going so far to plant his fists on his hips, "I killed a dragon ya know! I can kill ya without a second thought!" When the horse took a bite of grass and began a lazy, slow chew as it continued staring at Cauwyn, he frowned and some of his heat faltered. His hands fell to his sides and his shoulders slumped some as he grumbled, "Turn yer damn hide into a cloak.."
He turned his frown on Katahnia, who was hardly being helpful, "An' yer just encouraging 'im! Ansgars cock! I feel like ya two are just plottin' against me! The both of ya are just jealous!"
After a moment of consideration, he pointed an accusing finger at the horse, "Well, you're jealous at least! An' you!" His finger switched whip fast to Katahnia, "You're, well, ya just are tryin' to find a reason t' torment me with that damnable brush 'cause... 'cause... well, I don't know, but I'm sure ya got yer reason!"
'Oh, this was too much fun' she thought.
Katahnia only batted her eyes at Cauwyn, slipping away from her 'demon horse' and over to him as her hands slid up his chest and rested on his shoulders.
"Now, why wold I do a thing like that? After all.." and here she produced the brush, the rusted silver catching a glint from the sun. "What harm ever came from a brush?"
The horse, naturally, stared at Cauwyn....
and chewed.
Cauwyn eyed her suspiciously as Katahnia approached, but tensed shoulders relaxed visibly beneath her touch. A smile began to form on his lips until she produced her brush, in which his eyes caught the gleam of fading light off of the silver surface. He looked from the brush to her, then back to the brush and finally his gaze came to rest on her.
"I'm know yer jokin' me.." He said with no attempt to hide his suspicion. Especially as his eyes shifted once more to the horse which continued to stare him down. He shot the beast another scowl to the same effect as all the others, and then looked back to Katahnia, "but at th' same time I feel your jus' tryin' to get my trust, so ya can have yer way with me.. But ya know what?" His eyes brightened as a wicked grin spread on his lips.
"Not if'n I have my way first!" He blasted out with laughter and wrapped his arms around Katahnias waist. Without effort he lifted her from the ground and began spinning in circles a few times. When he finally stopped spinning he didn't release her though, burying his face into the crook of her neck where lips, teeth and tongue savagely, but gently, attacked her tender flesh!
What started off as a moment with her having the upper hand, coy brush in tow, turned into something surprisingly different as she was suddenly scooped up into his arms.
"C-Cauwyn!" she tried to protest, feeling herself grow dizzy as he spun her around- but the moment his lips and teeth sunk into her neck, she let out a squeal...
and could NOT stop squealing, squirming and kicking her legs about in a fit of gut wrenching laughter-
not only had he failed in his attempts to seduce her (if he was trying that, anyway!), but now he had a woman so suddenly 'turned on' to 'every part of my body now tickles' mode, he had this writhing 'princess' in his arms who could not cease the movement in her arms as she continued her 'flail-capade'.
OOC: lol... XD
I'm so going to have to draw out the brush and horse scene and it's epicness X3
I also feel bad for Kat.
I have moments like this XD it's bad- squealing and flailing abound!
OOC: LOL! Oh god yes, a hilarious picture indeed!
And, as a guy, I have always found that if you can get a girl to squeal whether it's from ticklishness or not, it still counts as being awesome! Apparently, Cauwyn agrees!!
IC:
Her protests had no effect on the ex mercenary as he was completely set on having his way with her! His lips left wet kisses as his teeth raked her flesh. Unfortunately, the effect was not what he expected as he suddenly found his arms full of flailing woman! Not one to give up easily, especially when faced with the possibility that he wasn't as charming as he thought!
"Ha!" Cauwyn pulled his head back, though his arms around her tightened like iron refusing to let his flailing 'princess' escape so easily, "An' now ya'll feel m' wrath!" And with that his mouth sealed on the crux of her neck where it joined with her shoulder... and he blew making a rather unflattering fart sound. It was 'cute' with babies and puppies, why not with her? Whom he found infinitely cuter than any babies as he alternated from smothering her neck and shoulders with kisses and, when the flailing became the most intense, blew hard enough to make noise!
The horse, of course, was not pleased with this. It snorted and stomped one foot as it glared with large horse eyes at the man who dared caused his mistress to squeal like that! This, in turn, only encouraged Cauwyn he lifted her into the air and began to dance around with her working his lips up her neck to her cheeks and then tried to steal kisses between his own laughter and her squealing!
OOC: HE's so evil D:
I'd probably pee my pants if this happened to me lol
IC:
The man was merciless, and no matter where he touched on her- she seemed to respond, squealing and reeling within his arms- and when his lips suddenly sealed to her, she tensed up, and then felt, much to her dismay, his lips fluttering wet, vibrating farting noises against her skin! And then he did it again and again! Squeals raised up an octave, flails becoming more violent when suddenly her limbs caught desperately around him as she gasped out a single beg.
"C-Cauwyn! P-please stop!" though it was hard to take her pleas serious as her face was ripe and red, and her breath hung with laughter and dread!
"It hurts.." she began, clutching her stomach and panting, wincing and laughing. "It hurts to breath!"
OOC: Also they've made it to twenty five pages XD
25 pages of tickles lol
OOC: Evil? I like to think of him more along the lines of nefarious!
And WOO US!! For 25 pages!
IC:
Cauwyn was not a merciless man. He pulled his lips away and quit dancing, settling her back to the ground, though he most certainly did NOT let her go. He was also well aware that what he had done would probably be met with violence. Violence better contained while she was wrapped in his arms.
"Okay, okay.. But," With a pointed look he added his stipulation, "ya gotta pay. Ya gotta promise me, promise yeah? That ya will stop takin' that cursed monsters side in things! If'n ya do that.." He shrugged casually, doing a poor job of hiding a smug grin, "well, then I'll let ya go. If'n ya don't though? Well, I think ya know what happens, princess.."
Katahnia looked up at him in surprise, a humorous smile curling amongst her expression as she shook her head.
"You ask such a difficult thing for a princess to do. How could I not side with my trusty steed? He has, after all, been there during the most epic of battles, where I risked my life with him beneath my legs, carrying me away to safety. A horse is merely an extension of our being, Cauwyn- and you, as a knight," she tried to stifle a snicker. "Should be aware of such things, as you are merely an extension of my shield, the horse, my legs, and my heart- extended through my sword."
Cauwyn frowned as she explained the metaphysics of peoples roles when it came to the nobility. Not that he considered it that. No, only a few key points of what she was saying really stuck with him, but those parts were enough to cause him to draw in his brow, "Wait, what? No. First, th' only thing memorable betwixt your legs'll be me, yeah? Battle or no. An' second, I ain't got no problem bein' your shield, ain't no one gonna lay a hand on ya if'n with me 'round, but if'n yer heart belongs t' your sword, then I call dibs on bein' your sword too, yeah?"
He flashed her an easy smile, quickly pressing his lips to hers before she could argue her point. When he pulled away, his smile had turned into a broad grin, "An' that means, if I got all th' best positions, yer hell-steed ain't got shit!" Cauwyn looked past her to the horse, who still chewed lazily on some grass completely unthreatened by Cauwyns demands, and cast a sneer. When he looked back at Katahnia, he gave her a pointed look pulling her tighter against his body, "So, again, who's side ya gonna be on in this?"
Katahnia opened her lips to object to his logic, when his lips pressed to hers, stealing her breath away.
But then he continued onward, and she merely shook her head.
"You really are jealous of my horse, aren't you?" she said, leering him playfully. "And what if I told you both you and he are of great importance to me. After all, he is carrying all of our weight, but you.." she leaned in, kissing him softly, but long winded, upon the lips.
"You are right to assume you have my heart."
and then, after a moment- she pulled away, making a face.
"And what do you mean by being a memorable thing betwixt my legs?"
"Hm?" Cauwyn flashed her a very innocent look as she made a face at him and his earlier comment. He blinked, making a show of trying to think of what she was talking about before and doing a poor job of hiding his grin.
Unsure how to explain without getting himself in trouble, Cauwyn opted for the easy out. He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers, lingering there and enjoying the feelings and sensations that came from it. When he pulled his head back, he couldn't help but smile. Just as he couldn't resist making another comment, "Well, if'n ya gotta ask then I obviously didn't do a good 'nuff job.. Guess 'm gonna have t' really out do myself tonight!"
It was only then, after he pulled away from the kiss that Katahnia understood- and gave a gasp in horror at his suggestion before he cheeks gave way to a burn and slight smile.
"C-Cauwyn!" ANd before he would know it, she kissed him fierce, and with enough force to pin him against a nearby tree by the water. ANd once he was securely forced against the tree, she kissed him again with heated passion before slowly, ever so slowly...
BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUSSSSSH.
The teeth of the silver brush caught into his wet hair as she giggled through her series of kisses.
BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUSSSSSH.
Hopefully if she was kissing him, he would not notice that she was...
BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUSSSSSH.
The horse gave a tempered swish of it's tail, still eating the grass, still very wary of Cauwyn...
BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUSSSSSH.
"MmmMm." Cauwyn managed to mumbled rather contentedly as he was attacked by Katahnias kisses. He stumbled back against her onslaught until he found himself pinned against a tree. The rough bark digging into his back as Katahnia practically held him there with her desire and kisses? Cauwyn was finding himself more than a little turned on! His hands moved immediately to her ass, cupping her cheeks and pulling her up against him so that she could straddle him when she was ready... But something wasn't right. Something..
And then he felt the sharp tug in his hair and his eyes opened wide. She had been distracting him! It was all a ruse so she could work her damnable comb on him again! Cauwyn pulled his head back to escape the kisses, but found the tree blocked him now. Though, even with his new discovery, he was loathe to pull away from the hot grip of her mouth Cauwyn struggled, finally tilting his head down instead of back and burying his mouth against her neck!
"I know what you're doin'!" He shouted accusingly, biting and suckling at the side of her neck. Hoping he could recapture the moment before when she had been too ticklish to touch, "I feel ya! Feel ya 'ttackin' m' head!!"
Katahnia let out a squeal, but continued to brush.
"C-Cauwyn! I'm not attacking you, for a brush is h-ha-ha!hardly a weapon!" but it was hard for her to speak through anything, he had easily ignited her giggle fit against as she burst out laughing, reeling away as she clumsily dropped to the grass, groping at his legs and shaking her head as she put up her hands in defeat and defense.
"Huzah!" Cauwyn cried in victory as she fell back, though he did grab for her hoping to at least slow her fall. As she through up her arms in defeated defense, Cauwyn came down to a knee in front of her to control his own weight before he fell on to her. His hands seeking her hands as they also sought to pin them above her head.
"You were attacking me!" He demanded with a mock scowl before he snuck in a few more kisses against her neck and cheek, "And you must be punished!" He laughed into the side of her neck before pulling his head up to smile down at her. It was warm and genuine and true and for a moment, looking down at her, Cauwyn stopped playing and just enjoyed the moment. There were no flowery words or I love yous, at least not given voice. The look in his eye as he stared down at her said it all along with the smile on his face. But it was only a moment and then his mouth was on her again!
Katahnia gave a soft squeal as he was upon her-but she was too weak from being so giddy that she did not fight it when he pinned up her arms above her head. She merely looked at him, blushing, green eyes shining, almost appearing blue as they caught the sky.
"I was not attacking!" she laughed, trying to defend herself as her cheeks dimpled in a repressed smile. She shook her head, laughing again at the scowl he made before he went for her neck and she flinched back, squirmed and let out a soft yelp.
But then as their eyes met in one playful, tender, unspoken moment, he was upon her again, and the kiss- it melted all of that giddyness away as she softly moaned beneath him.
Though she was the only one (and perhaps Cauwyn, too) who might have been content, but the horse was not as it swished it's tail...
and began to plot Cauwyn's demise wiht one single, pawing of it's hoof.
Soft grunts and pleasurable groans escaped him as Cauwyn trailed kisses from her neck along to the hollow of her throat. His tongue left little wet patches on her skin as he made his way up over her cheek until finally his lips found hers. The passion and heat between them, between their kiss, began to cloud his mind with wants and needs and desire. His hands released her wrists, moving down to gently cup her face.
It was lovely, but it was also costly. Costly in that he had not heard the snort the horse gave, or its pawing at the ground. He hadn't heard it approach, as though it had been moving with some kind of sneaky purpose towards them. He heard nothing of the sort until he felt something pulling at his neck. Cauwyn's breath caught in his throat and his eyes opened wide with shock just before the horse, who had clamped down on his cloak with its teeth, pulled Cauwyn up enough from Katahnia to give her room to escape!
"D-damn you!" Cauwyn cursed back at the horse who was slowly backtracking, pulling him along, "Hellspawn! Let go! Let me go, ya dumb beast!" Now it was Cauwyn who flailed, his hands struggling to get to the horses head behind him. Unfortunately he was too sore, his muscles too stiff, to reach far enough back to make any solid contact with the beasts muzzle. The horse, for it's part, stamped its hoof down again before pulling him farther back from it's mistress.
Katahnia melted beneath him- her body yearning to give him the world in their kisses-
and then, just as swiftly as she was brought into it, he was taken from her as she blinked, hands clapping over her lips as she stared at him in wide eyed shock as the horse, now evidently dragging her lover away.
"AH! No! Stop!" she said, scrambling to her feet when she realized the horse got to a point where the cloak might be choking him. "Let him go! Release!" she said.
The horse, surprised, dropped Cauwyn unceremoniously to the ground and gave Katahnia a sort of innocent whimper.
Though she ignored the horse for now, gasping as she got to her knees before Cauwyn.
"I don't think I was believing you before but..." here, she couldn't help but giggle. "The horse really does hate you, doesn't he?"
and the horse only made a noise to verify he agreed.
Cauwyn gasped for air rubbing at his neck as the horse finally released him. Katahnia at his side was only barely in his mind as anger at the horses continuous attempts to cod-piece block him from Katahnia had now moved to attempted murder! Well, if that was how the horse wanted to play it, so be it!
His hand tightened around the handle of his sword as he moved onto his knees and prepared to stand. Katahnia was starting to come around, to see the truth of the situation and he flashed his angry look to her only to see she was... giggling? Cauwyn blinked, clearly taken back, and his anger faltered as Katahnia covered her giggles with delicate hands as she spoke.
"Bu-wha-?" He blinked, "Y-you're...you're laughin'? This beast tried t' kill me!" He shouted in anger, looking back at the horse, who snorted and eyed him menacingly, and then back to Katahnia, "It.. It's not funny!" And then it happened. Despite his angry look, his chest and shoulders heaved once not with furious breath but with a restrained giggle of his own. Cauwyn, of course, refused to believe it. Holding onto his scowl as long as he could before he too was over run with snickering and giggles, "No! No, it's not funny! It tried t' eat me!"
Katahnia could't help but laugh and laugh.
Shaking her head, she waved off the idea with her hand.
"Oh, Cauwyn, I'm so.. s-sorry, it's just. It's too funny! I never saw a horse with such a personality and loathing before! I never knew them to be capable of it!"
and here, the horse made a soft noise, almost as if shocked and sheepish of it as it righted it's head and looked over at the pair curiously.
But then Katahnia moved to take Cauwyn's hand and leaned forward, kissing his cheek.
"Perhaps we can take our business elsewhere?" she looked over suspiciously at the horse, thoug she smiled and kissed Cauwyn's cheek again.
"Maybe closer to the water?"
"Closer to the water?" Cauwyn spoke as his laughter slowly began to die off. He looked back at the beast and then to her, shaking his head, "So it can drown me? Nuh-uh. First thing I'm gonna do, is put that thing in the ground.."
Cauwyn turned toward the horse, hand on his sword. The horse, again, seemed unimpressed with Cauwyns threat. If anything, it seemed like it was holding its head higher just so it could stare down its nose at him! Cauwyn scowled, a low growl rising up in his throat. The horse just stared.
"I'll do it!" He called in challenge to the horse, drawing a bit of his blade, "Cleave that head right off yer shoulders! Bet I could get a good price for yer hide, too!" And the horse just stared, as if it didn't understand a word he was saying. But Cauwyn didn't miss the tale-tell signs. The way its ears flittered back or the slow drag of its hoof across the ground. It was a quiet, subtle challenge. The horse was not afraid of Cauwyn.
He also knew how mad Katahnia would be if he did hurt the damn thing. Sure, it could try and murder and eat him, but let Cauwyn try the same thing and see who got in trouble! He let his sword fall back into its scabbard, though he kept his scowl on the horse as he spoke, "Or, maybe, ya could just tie it up somewhere too? Maybe tie it so it chokes, yeah?"
"Really, Cauwyn!" she chastised, hands to her hips. "Calm down. He is our transpiration. Do you really want us to be walking around for how far we have to travel to my Uncle's? ANd you should be happy the horse has at least taken to us, well, to one of us, anyway. It's not everyday you find such a magnificent creature." she said, moving forward and taking the reigns and gently patting the horses nose.
And the horse seemed quite pleased with this attention, almost seeming to smile.
"Calm down!?" He blinked, confused and maybe a little hurt that she chose the horse over him, "Wh-? Where ya not here just two seconds 'go when the damn thing tried t' eat me?! Calm down? I think you need t' calm up!"
He snorted and folded his arms over his chest. Sure, she was right that it was carrying their things and that they had been making good time, but did that really mean they had to put up with its murderous behavior? Or, more realistically, that HE had to put up with it's murderous behavior because the damn thing seemed to just LOVE Katahnia. Probably did love her, stupid jealous horse..
And look how smug it was being! As soon as Katahnia had her back to him Cauwyn stuck his tongue out at the horse. Childish, maybe, but he felt a little better afterward at least.
Seeing as the man could not be reasoned with, she tethered the horse to a nearby tree and turned around, taking Cauwyn's hand in her own and without so much as a word, guided him away-
When they were far enough away that the pair was hidden behind a tall bush, she sunk her lips onto his- quieting any doubt with her heat and need, even leaning up on her toes to reach into the moment better, her chest pressing lightly against his body as she held both of his hands in a gentle squeeze.
Then, pulling away, she looked him in the eyes and simply smiled, confessing. "I love you."
As far as distractions went, this was a good one. He had been silent in his protests when she dragged him away and behind the bushes, but when she kissed him the passion took his breath away. His hands moved of their own accord, circling around her and pulling her closer. The tender touch of her breasts against his chest even separated by their respective clothing was enough to get things stirring.
When she pulled away it felt like he could breathe again, though he didn't want to. He just wanted to be wrapped up in that kiss once more. He let out a long, content sigh as he smiled down at her.
"An' I love ya too, yeah?" He said with a small grin before he pressed his mouth down onto hers. It was his turn to show her just how much want and need he had for her, and he showed it not just with the kiss but by how tightly he held her against himself.
Katahnia smiled happily at his words, felt exhilarated by the response in his kiss and moaned softly from it.
"Oh, Cauwyn,"s he breathed his name when their lips finally parted, arms going around him tight. "I must admit, I never dreamed how powerful love can feel, but when I'm with you, I feel as if I could take on the world, that I could fly.." and she leaned in just so, giving him a kiss that would prove that perhaps it were possible, that the two together, could fly.
OOC: SO many short posts tonight XD
sorry D:
Cauwyn moaned pleasurably into the kiss, holding her tight and pulling her even closer. He turned with her in his arms, now pressing against her until she was the one pushed up against a tree. He slowly pulled his head back, breaking the kiss with a soft moan. His smile was warm his eyes were half-lidded and hazy with pleasure. One hand moved up to softly cup her cheek while he tilted his head, kissing softly and gently on the lobe of her ear.
"Mm, I'm going t' show ya.." He whispered softly between soft kisses, "just how true that can be.." He promised her in a whispered voice heavy with need and promises of further pleasure before sucking her earlobe in between his teeth.
Katahnia felt dizzy beneath his advances, her lips replying in a needy whimper as they kissed in such a rush as she was pinned against the tree. Then he breathed into her ear, nursed at the sensitive skin as she shivered. And she melted, her entire body heating to his.
All she could do was moan and fall prey to him, knowing nothing more of what to do with herself while under this spell. Her eyes were closed light. Lips gently open and waiting in anticipation for any forward kisses or the ability to breath a moan.
Yes.. she wanted to fly.
Yes... she was completely and utterly at his fantasy, at his mercy-
so long as his lips kept doing what they did.
Cauwyns kisses didn't stay where she wanted them. No, he pulled his head back to give her a smile and a quick peck on the lips before he began to kiss his way down here body. He was fully intent on keeping his promise of being the only thing she ever cared to remember between her legs!
They made love well into dusk, at which point camp was then sat up. A fire put up to keep away the threats of any animals and to keep them warm when they fell asleep in each others arms. Cauwyn however, didn't fall asleep long. He awoke just before the moon was at its height after drinking down quite a bit of water. Finishing off his business, Cauwyn kept to his original promise as well, slipping off back into the town.
He was back well before dawn and if he had any issues with stealing from the old woman, they certainly didn't keep him from falling back asleep with Katahnia. Of course, as dawn broke and light spilled over them he found himself up again. He yawned and stretched and rubbed at sore eyes. The black eyes he'd received the previous day and night had finally set in at least, so he didn't have to worry about developing rings under his eyes!
As Katahnia was finishing getting ready, Cauwyn stepped up to her with a broad, practically beaming grin. Both of his hands were concealed behind his back and he rocked back and forth on the balls of his booted feet looking very much like the cat who ate the canary.
As it was, Katahnia was surprised and also delighted by his forwardness. Never having experienced such things growing up, she gladly gave herself to the man she loved until night settled, where the two fell asleep contentedly, she within his arms. When he had snuck away, however, the only one that might have noticed was the horse, (besides the faint shiver Katahnia released at the suddeness of the chill of the night). And when Cauwyn returned, the horse was chewing on his grass, most displeased as Katahnia had begun to rise for the day, stretching arms high above her head as she released gentle, soft squealed moans.
She had gotten up, splashed cool water on her face, rinsed out her mouth, amongst other things and was toweling off her face by the time she returned to the cooling warm spot of the camp when she caught Cauwyn from the corner of her eye and gave way to pause. She examined him skeptically.
"What's with that face?"
She looked to the horse, who was still displeased, eating his grass, then back to Cauwyn. She put a hand to her hip.
"Really.."s he gestured to him with a rise of her chin. "What are you doing- and why are your hands behind your back?" and here, she tilted to one side, trying to peer behind him.
Her skepticism only brought out more of that smug, prideful grin. He was practically dancing with the way nervous energy had him bouncing on his feet. He raised his chin some and puffed out his chest a bit more.
"I got you a gift.." He said rather coyly. Then, without further wait, he pulled the battered silver box out from behind his back. The thing was wrapped in a thin hide cloth, but it fell open allowing the silver lid to reflect the sunlight. Cauwyn, despite his unique ability, still preferred not to touch the enchanted thing as he held it out to her.
"It's your spell-box!" He said with an excited, boyish grin feeling the need to explain himself, "Promised ya I'd get it! A good person always keeps his promises, yeah? Well, ya make me wanna start tryin' t' be one!"
Katahnia's face twisted awkwardly into a smile at his notion-
"What do you mean- a gift?"
and then he presented it to her, and her heart caught within her throat.
"C-cauwyn," she finally began, once her breath had finally returned, as did the swells of emotions that followed as her green eyes went hot with tears. "Cauwyn, but you- it's.."
She couldn't even take it from him she was so happy, as her body began to shake. But then impulse settled in and she snatched up the box, holding it lovingly before suddenly throwing herself at him and clinging to him in such a tight squeeze of hugs and kisses, the poor man might not have been able to breath.
but when she calmed down, she smiled, turning aside and brushed away her tears with the ends of her hands.
Holding the box delicately between her hands, she went silent, tears paused, as she moved two fingers about the crank, and began to twist, twisting it until the familiar, fluttering clank of music began. And the tune carried merry and light, chiming in a jingle across the air in light pops of crystal sounds-
beautiful, eerie and sweet.
And along with it, came her voice, soft and humming and sweet.
Cauwyn gagged when she threw herself around him, barely able to breathe. He tried to hug her back and also mumble a few words, but they just came out as choked mutterings. And then he was released and a fresh gasp of air pulled in as she danced away. He took a moment to steady himself before he stood and adjusted his clothes.
"I take it ya like it then, yeah?" He said with a bit of a smirk, taking this opportunity to look over at the horse and sneer. Oh sure, the horse just chewed his grass, but Cauwyn knew! He knew he had one upped the dumb beast!
His attention returned to her when the music began to play again. He stepped back slightly as though proximity to the box might increase the power of its spell. He even went so far as to cover his ears with his hands, though when he saw he mouth moving he thought better of it. After all, magic couldn't hurt him right?
He pulled his hands away with a slight frown, watching her sing the admittedly beautiful song. Though a bit pensive about the spellbox still, she did seem to enjoy it and who knew how much help it could be on the road? He took a small, tentative step forward.
The song continued to play, metal panging to metal, notes carrying soft and sweet around them like a carousel of noise. And Katahnia's voice continued to hum along. But as most music boxes worked, eventually the song began to slow. The gears gave a soft groan, and eventually, the tinkling music would fade. As did her humming as Katahnia stared down at the tarnished silver box, branded with the faded crest of her duchy and looked over to Cauwyn, her smile so wide and bright that it could not be contained.
"Oh... oh, Cauwyn. You really shouldn't have." and she laughed despite herself, trying to brush away her tears on the back of her wrist.
"And here, all I can do is seem to cry,"s he said, laughing at herself and turning the crank once again on the box and went silent, lips pressing as the royal ballad of Harmond played.
When the second time around the music faded, Katahnia found herself releasing a long breath, hot tears still rolling down her cheeks before she moved over to Cauwyn and buried her face against him, arms wrapping around him tight as she sobbed and whispered.
"Cauwyn, I love it. Thank you." And even more sobs still until she finally whispered, softly, carefully, sweet. "I love you."
Cauwyn had known the box had meaning to Katahnia beyond that of just something pretty.It was specific and deep, though he had no idea just how deep. As her tears began to flow, yet again, Cauwyns pensive look intensified. Maybe it hadn't been such a good idea to get her the box? He could see she was smiling, but whatever it was... Cauwyn didn't understand the attachment of value the box held.
What he did understand though, was that Katahnia was happy. She looked beyond happy really, and that did make him feel good even if she was crying. He finally found a small, sad smile to share with her as she hummed. Then, as they music faded only to start up again, Cauwyn finally took a moment to listen. To listen to the soft chiming notes caused by whatever spell lingered inside that box. And the noise was, well, enchanting though Cauwyn felt no power or control come over him.
When it stopped again and Katahnia buried her face against him, Cauwyn stood with his arms half bent in the air at first. Then, as his smile grew, he lowered them down around her and held her as equally tight. With her body pressed against his and her face buried against him, Cauwyn slowly bent his head down to give her a kiss on the top of hers.
"I love ya too, princess." He whispered quietly, rubbing his hands up and down her back, "I love ya too.. An' now, no matter where we end up, ya'll have that t' keep ya company, yeah?"
OOC: er- some mature content XD Cauwyn's becoming a lucky man... again, haha.
Katahnia smiled and nodded at his words, keeping herself buried within his arms.
"I will. I'll be sure to treasure it forever," she said, hugging it to her chest before stealing another kiss from him again. His love,.. to feel this love. Yes, she could take on anything. As sad as it was to lose her duchy,t his feeling of love, this great power that surged within her heart was indescribable, a power that could let her lift mountains.
And so Cauwyn might find himself pleasantly surprised as she placed the box aside and took him back behind the bushes, this time being in control, and this time showing him how she might make love.
It was an innocent, blissful act- as she removed just slight bits of their clothing and moved over him- just enough to let herself try out his sex inside her in intimate detail, letting her body sample the flavor, the feeling- until she found herself crying out in satisfaction and bliss, collapsing onto his chest and kissing him, loving him, holding him.
To say Cauwyn was surprised by the turn of events would be an understatement. To say he was disappointed, however, would have been a lie. As Katahnia pressed herself against him and by that act pressed them both back behind the bushes was something totally unexpected. Pleasant, but unexpected.
He was, of course, overjoyed to have himself within her once again. His hands to her body, only glimpsing small chosen bits of flesh between their clothes. The slower, sensual nature of this act was something foreign to him. His grunted and panted and moaned with need and want, but made no move to change the pace. To take from her the power and use it to his own needs. Cauwyn had fucked many times, but he had never done anything like this. Never so slow, never so emotional.
In the end, he cried out with her. Body arching to bury himself as he could within her. When they finished he found himself laying back against the cool morning grass, gasping and breathing as though they had still gone at it like beasts. His arms wrapped protectively around her and he returned what kisses he could between bated breathes. He felt as though he could simply melt into her and he loved every moment of it.
OOC: Lol, they go at it likes rabbits, I swear 8D
Katahnia never felt so alive, or satisfied, or so wholly complete as she did in that moment with Cauwyn. Not only did her body have a chance to explore, to taste his, to nurse upon it; but she had, after all their numerous times, finally taken seed. She wouldn't know, couldn't know exactly what was happening, and surely Cauwyn would not have known of the consequences to bed a woman so extensively...
But it was then, in their perfect union, their first time making love, that it was sealed.
And she reveled in it, just enjoying laying there with him in the soft grasses, staring up admiring at the blue sky of the day and sighing- only to become suddenly bashful when someone was suddenly passing them on the road.
She made quick work to try to appear modest, but her blush and their clothing in all dissarray had the old couple int he cart give a slight cry of alarm, only to blush nad turn away, whispering things of years they too, had shared in the past.
Katahnia's face was quite red, but she still turned, adoringly at her lover and kissed him suddenly before rising.
"We... probably should wash up. After we.. well.. it becomes quite awkward to walk."s he admitted, sex dribbling down her leg as she tried to move towards the stream. She tried to find an area that was more secluded and began to undress. After all- how many times had they done it anyways? The idea sent shivers to her flesh as she slipped down into the water and closed her eyes, enjoying the feeling of the cool stream as it carried her cares far, far away.
Cauwyn's reaction to the strangers passing by was somewhat different than Katahnia's. He smiled and held up his hand in a cheerful wave, earning him a scowl amongst their shocked looks. His clothes disheveled, along with his hair, it wasn't hard for anyone to tell what had just happened. Especially with the way Katahnia was blushing so furiously.
When she mentioned cleaning up Cauwyn turned that smile on her, his shoulders shaking with a slight chuckle, "Yeah, I suppose it might be.." He couldn't help but be a bit proud, maybe even smug, that it made it uncomfortable for her to walk. It probably wasn't what she meant, and Cauwyn knew that, but he chose to ignore that particular detail and enjoy hearing what he heard.
After cleaning up as well and readjusting his clothing Cauwyn walked back toward their little makeshift campsite, finishing the packing of the rest of their things. Loading them onto the saddle bag wasn't so bad, though the horse did sidestep him a few times and kept sniffing at him. Cauwyn flashed the horse a smug smile was well, "What's amatter, jealous much?"
Katahnia had returned, much cleaner then before and gave a chastising shake of her head when she overheard Cauwyn talk to the horse.
"Cauwyn.." she said, taking his arm and guiding him away from the horse. "You shouldn't try to goad the horse that way. The last thing we need is for him to become upset and buck us clean off his back."
The horse made a noise, staring over at the pair as if bewildered Katahnia would assume that he would kick her off his back.
Now Cauwyn..
Cauwyn was another story. He would kick him all the way to Africa! (if you know, Africa existed here!). Katahnia turned to the horse and couldn't help herself but to drop her efforts with Cauwyn and began petting his long nose. The horse made a few contented noises while nuzzling at Kathania's stomach, trying to sniff down-
"Eh!?" Katahnia let out a cry of alarm and backed away from the horse, face red that the horse's nose had tried to prod between her legs. "Eh.." She could only blink, and the horse lifted it's head, ears back as it gave Cauwyn quite a soured look.
"Really now, bad horse!" she said, chastising the beast now as she wagged a finger at him. The horse just looked up with innocent eyes and Katahnia rolled her eyes at him. "You both keep this up and I'll put braids and bows in your hair! Now... really, we should be going." she began, tucking back her hair away from her face as she turned to Cauwyn, studying him a moment-
and that's when she suddenly felt the horses snorts at her butt and gave a jump and a squeal.
And when Katahnia turned around, the horse seemed, well... he was looking away as if nothing had happened at all!
He grumbled as she chastised him for goading on the horse. Really, it was the horses fault. The dumb thing was goading him on! And now that he had something he could rub in the horses face, he was brought down by Katahnia. Cauwyn scowled at nothing in particular as he tightened down the straps on the saddle bags.
The horses dirty look, ears back, only brought a smug smile to Cauwyns face. He practically stuck his tongue out at the animal, but refrained from speaking because he knew Katahnia would side with the beast. Even if it was being a jerk! And almost as if to prove it, she threatened the both of them! Cauwyn held his hands up, shaking his head, "Hold up! I ain't doin' nothin'!" His hands came down again to grab his spear where it leaned against a tree.
And then Katahnia squealed. He had just barely caught sight of what had happened, but that didn't keep him from laughing as he pieced it together. Strolling over towards her with a broad, somewhat smug grin, Cauwyn gestured to the horse with a flick of his head, "See? See what I mean? He's a jealous little prick.." Cauwyn protectively wrapped an arm around Katahnias shoulder, smiling now at the horse, "Aren't ya? Yeah, well sour apples, ya dumb beast.."
Katahnia gave a frustrated sigh.
"Am I going to have to deal with these antics all the way to my Uncles?" she said, trying to glare back at Cauwyn but all she could do was smile, laugh even as she looked into his face.
"Keep up those grumblings and maybe I'll have you eating soured apples." she teased, then stole a kiss from Cauwyn. "Come, let's get out of this place. We've got a long journey ahead."
And swinging her feet into the stirrups and up and around onto the horse, she waited for Cauwyn to join her.
They had already gone a days worth of travel, two days longer on this road and she hoped they'd get to her Uncle's. But she felt so terribly anxious as they road along, the day soon turning into night as the gentle sway of the animal began to lull her. She let out a yawn, trying to stifle it behind a hand before glancing back at Cauwyn.
"We should find a place to make camp." It did not seem like they were near enough to a town to find lodgings there, and part o fher feared Cauwyn had wasted all of their money on that box..
The box...
Oh, how she would love him forever for that.
"Don't blame me.. It's th' damn horses fault, ya saw that." Cauwyn responded, somewhat defensively though his smile never faltered. When she stole from him a kiss, he let out a pleasurable little grunt and immediately hungered for more. Unfortunately though, she was right about needing to leave. He put aside his needs once more and mounted up behind her in the saddle, spear in hand and ready to hit the road.
Cauwyn himself was wide awake, if only because it was his nature. His eyes constantly scanning the road and trees for dangers and threats as they traveled. While some might think such a thing was impressive, hyper vigilance was actually very tiring. So when she stifled her yawn, Cauwyns arm around her waist tightened to pull her back against him. He kissed down onto the top of her head and flashed her a quick, charming smile before giving a nod, "Yeah, pro'lly for the best. Don't want ya fallin' outta th' saddle.."
His attention then turned from threats to suitable camping. He wasn't familiar with the area, so he looked for the simple landmarks of what they would need. When he saw a well worn but recently undisturbed trail that cut off into the trees, Cauwyn gave her another squeeze before pointing it out with his spear, "There. Looks like some other travelers have gone this way. Pro'lly a clearin' or somethin' off the road. Maybe even a wayward pine, yeah?" He grinned as he craned his neck over her shoulder, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.
THe idea of spending a night together beneath the pines tickled at her heart. Oh, how she had dreamed of them to lay as lovers beneath the soft smell of pain and the gentle calling of rain-
How, it seemed so long ago, when it was but days, they had shared that moment together, as friends, while something deeper was brewing. How could she have known that in the heart of war, and the empty echo that followed that she would find true love in the first man she met?
As she dismounted from the horse, she took her time, admiring Cauwyn for all that he was worth, and she felt her breast swell with pride that she could call him hers. Would it be possible, she dreamed, that the two would ever to wed? Though for now, she was very content with the antithesis of their companionship, and to be somewhat caught up int he dangerous aspects of love.
But oh, how little these dangers could be! And it was so good to have these simple, unknown problems that plagued her rather than the aspirations, the guilt and cavernous afterbirth and still death of war. How wondrous it was to have that forgotten, and to have it heal in the powers of love.
Guiding the horse (since it would not do to have Cauwyn entertain the beast in which they hated each other both in equally despising ways), the two began on a light footed trail that meander beside a row of scattered pines. It smelled heavenly here, and it was at the far end of the walk that she noticed something off int he distance. A tall, fat, motherly tree that sat with her skirts upa nd inviting.
"Look, over there," Katahnia pointed, wrinkling her nose with glee. "That one ought to do." and she smiled over at Cauwyn triumphantly before leading the horse along the way. THe horse seemed less than enthused. Pine was never it's favorite to snack on and where Kathania had him tethered he was surrounded by nothing but their needles. Though as his nose pushed through, he eventually snuffed out some sweet grass and began to casually graze, but kept a sharp eye on Cauwyn, lest the man try anything funny to his mistress.
"You know, I was thinking.." Katahnia began as she began to unfasten their packs from the horse.
"I think our horse here needs a name."
The horse stopped chewing, it's mouth open as if gaping in surprise, then slowly, ever so slowly, it began to chew, but with more caution as it turned to glance at Katahnia in questioning.
"How about something like Albert?" she said, turning to the horse for approval. The horse merely snorted. It did not wish to be called Albert.
OOC: Sorry it took so long, life got a bit hectic!
IC:
"Looks like a good'un." Cauwyn said with a soft smile and a gentle hand to Katahnia's back as they approached the pine. Sticking his spear into the dirt, Cauwyn went about unloading their needed supplies from the saddle bags of the horse. No easy feat as the horse continuously swatted at an invisible fly with its tail that just happened to be near Cauwyn. While the lashings didn't hurt, they did sting and drew a hiss of anger and a glare each time for the horse.
"A name?" He looked up with a smirk from where he was digging out their fire pit, "How 'bout Shithead?" He offered with a mumble that was just loud enough for her to hear. And the horse. He was content to name the dumb thing whatever, or at least he thought he was, until he heard the name she wanted. Cauwyn frowned, looking up. He could see the horse and it almost looked like the dumb thing disliked the name too. As much as he wanted to piss the creature off, even Cauwyn had his limits.
"Albert? Really?" He pulled up one knee from where he was kneeling and rested both his forearms across the top of his thigh, "I don't know princess, sounds kinda dumb.. I mean, I don't know 'lot 'bout namin' horses an' shit, but shouldn't it have a name that means somethin'? Like, Shadow or Quick? Oh, or Stallion? I know that's a pretty popular one.." So maybe Cauwyn really didn't know anything about horses..
"I don't know, he could be an Albert." Katahnia began, chuckling only when the horse began to snort angrily. "Oh, alright. Hrm.." She rubbed her chin thoughtfully, studying the horse as it looked at her. The beast was unable to eat any more grass. It was obviously antsy.
"I don't know," she sighed. "We need to give him a clever name. Something.. punctual." She kept mulling it over, the horse following Kathania as she paced, his ears flattening when she'd walk nearby, then as she'd go farther away, they'd perk up, but then be pressed flatly against his head when she'd come back, running the shaggy grass before him into a small, flat line.
Sighing, she paused before the horse and looked over at Cauwyn.
With a hand to her hip, she spoke, "What about Amano?"
The horse looked from Katahnia to Cauwyn, back to Katahnia. It was better than Albert, but the horse still seemed.. uncertain. It pawed at the ground, whining slightly before looking over to Cauwyn for help.
"Amano?" Cauwyn mulled over the word like some unknown food, his thoughts playing easily across his face as he went from consideration, a smirk at the horses reservations, and then ultimately a frown as he shook his head, "Eh, I don't know.. Amano seems, hmm, weak maybe? An' as dumb as the animal is, 'e don't seem weak.."
The horse snorted at Cauwyn. Clearly it wasn't dumb, though it agreed with the man on not being weak. Still, the horses dark eyes stared at the man. While they obviously didn't get along, the animal seemed almost grateful being spared the name Albert.
"What about.." He tapped his chin as he thought, considering possibilities. He eyed the horse over, trying to think of something that was fitting to the horses nature. And also sounded good. Part of the reason he had sided against Albert, even though he was pretty sure the horse didn't like the name, was because he didn't like the idea of riding around on something called Albert. It wasn't fitting for a warhorse, even if the animal was just the possession of some two-bit lowlife who probably stole it in the first place, "Ol' Cuss? Or maybe just Cuss? I know th' damn thing makes me do that all th' time..." Cauwyn snorted as another thought struck him, bringing on a smirk, "Or maybe Cad?"
"What about Winston? Or Peter?" Katahnia couldn't help but chuckle, already fearing the horse hated those too, which he did, giving her a look and quick swish of his tail. She moved forward, stroking his mane affectionately. "No, you're no Winston or Peter.. or Albert." She said, wrinkling her nose. "Hrmm.. we should name him something appropriate to our cause? Or based on his markings. His fur is such a deep brown it's almost black as his hair." She smoothed a hand over the white diamond upon his head. "And he's got a sweet white diamond of fur and those white socks around his hooves.."
The horse moved it's feet anxiously, not quite sure how to take the compliments.
"THough I don't think socks, or star is appropriate. Something... hrmm.."
She tapped a finger to her lips.
"What about something like Duskrider?"
The horse simply blinked, seeming to halt everything it did.
"It sounds like some mysterious heroic bandit name." she giggled.
The horse seemed to like it, throwing up it's head, puffing out it's chest and pawing the ground with pride. Katahnia giggled. "Oh my, for some reason I think the horse likes that name. Duskrider? Do you want to be called Duskrider?"
The horse raised it's chin proudly, before sputtering snot hotly from it's nose, trying to appear a great champion- the champion horse DUSKRIDER!
Katahnia couldn't help but laugh. "I suppose it has a nice ring to it. It's also a character from a book I read when I was young. A hero among thieves, the hero of the night."
Yes.. the horse was very much liking this name , indeed!
OOC: lol...
"Eh," Cauwyn shrugged passively at the names of Winston and Peter. Personally he liked the name Cus for the horse. Or maybe even Gus, though did he really want to ride a horse name Gus? He smirked with his own internal thoughts as Katahnia kept talking about the horse, coming up with new names to introduce like Shit-lips or Simple Sal...
The horses snort brought him out of his own thoughts and he blinked as he saw the horse standing with its head held high. Thankfully, he caught Katahnia mentioning the name again before he had to ask what she had said. Fierce warrior or not, it was always dangerous to let a woman find out you weren't paying attention to her. Cauwyn flashed a quick smile and nodded his agreement.
"Duskrider, yeah? It's a good name, I like it.." He added in a cheerful tone, looking from her to the horse and back. He wasn't so happy with how pleased the horse looked, but it was better than riding around on Albert.
"A thief, huh? In a book? Like a wanted poster or somethin'?" Having never read a book, Cauwyn wasn't really sure what went on in them. Aside from magic, that went on in books. And numbers and stuff. He'd seen and signed plenty of contracts, but he had always had someone else for reading them. He smirked at the horse, "That you? You gonna be a famous thief from a wanted book? Hey!" His eyes brightened, " You could be a horse thief!" Cauwyns grin split ear to ear with that gem!
Katahnia's mouth fell open in a smile, then stretched even wider as Cauwyn pressed on. She shook her head at his attempt at humor and approached the horse's front, petting the soft white diamond fur beneath his black bangs.
"Duskrider.. well, it's a story, not really on a wanted poster since Duskrider was never real." She smiled, blushing a bit (embarassedly) at the memory. "It was an adventure story. It was quite famous when I was little."
Smiling, she looked down at the horse.
"You make a very handsome Duskrider."
The horse gave another rise of it's head and so, it would seem..
from that day forward he would be known as Duskrider.
Then, turning from the horse, she stared quietly and admired Cauwyn in silence. She didn't know why, but Cauwyn reminded her of the man from the story...
and she couldn't be more proud and excited to have a lover such as he. But a part of her couldn't help but feel guilty. Perhaps they had rushed things but..
for now, everything felt right and perfect, and she would not question this feeling.
OOC: Sorry this post is lame ;_; I r b sleepy, but I still wanted to post D:
suppose um, could just post them making camp and either have some more conversation/ character development between the two of them or fast forward so they get closer to her uncles? Or plan more mischief along the way...
the possibilities are endless! XD
OOC: What? Endless possibilities and evil plotting? Sweetness!
IC:
Setting up the camp went much faster this time around. Cauwyn gathered enough wood to get the fire started and then left it to Katahnia as a chance to practice her skills. They had enough provisions that they were able to piece together a rather tasty stew made from tomatoes, onions, cabbage and a little bit of their meat rations to add some more flavor. Along with splitting a half loaf of bread, the two were able to have a rather filling meal along with idle talk.
As night fell around them and they were left in the glow of the fire, Cauwyn reached into one of the larger pouches on his belt. From it he pulled a long-stemmed pipe and a small leather pouch. From the pouch Cauwyn packed his pipe and then lit it with a stick from the fire. A few comfortable puffs and the pipe was glowing evenly, filling the air with the scent of dark forest berries. He sighed contentedly and leaned back against a large log he had dragged over for them to sit on, though after dinner Cauwyn had chosen to lounge out on the forest floor and use the wood as a back brace.
"So, Katahnia.." He said after a short inhale, smoke trickling out of his nose and mouth as he spoke, "tell me about your uncle, yeah? What kinda man is he? What kinda dutchy does 'e run?" He smiled over at her, eying her in the fire light. She was so pretty, the way the fire danced over her. It made his heart race faster to think about her actually wanting to be with him. He was truly a lucky man, "I mean, I 'spose I should know somethin' 'bout this fella before we get there, yeah?"
Katahnia had been enjoying the moment, alone in her thoughts, thoughts being positive for once as she considered the future. The lazy roll of the scent of smoke came to her nose suddenly and put her at ease. Her father had a pipe once. So did her uncle in question.
Sighing, she smiled and turned to him, resting an elbow on her lap and a hand to her cheek.
"My uncle was always a kind man, though while growing up he had a few rambunctious boys." she said with a chuckle. "He was always like my father, though very soft spoken and sweet. I don't think I've ever heard him raise his voice. It would be.. nice to know if he' still alive. Even if he is an old man. I.. I suppose I just want answers. He might not have them but.. it'll also be nice to see a familiar face." She turned to Cauwyn, hugging her knees close. "I like the smell of that pipe."S he told him with a smile, green eyes taking him in and the lazy roll of smoke from his pipe. "It reminds me of both my father and Uncle. They used to enjoy their pipes beneath the trees on the lawn of our gardens, or in my Uncle's gardens."
SHe smiled at the memory.
"He had a nice place, very close to the mountains, to the forest,a lmost like he lived against the edge of the world and nothing but the wilderness stretching endlessly all around. It was always like a fairy tale to me. To run back int he woods, up the hills.. Mmmmm.." she smiled at the memory, but then her face went long as she turned more seriously to Cauwyn. "Even.. even if he.. he is still around. I don't want anything from him but to talk I.." she hesitated over her words, carefully thinking them over.
"I would very much like to stay on this path we've found,"s he told him, admiring him against the fire's glow. "I've come to accept my life has met a different direction." Her smile broadened. "And I feel comforted knowing I'll be making it with you."
The horse heard allt he noise and gave a snort.
Kathania turned to the beast and laughed, "And of course starting a new one with you, Duskrider." She teased, and then shuffled closer to Cauwyn's side, leaning her head against his shoulder, some of her soft, red-blonde hair tumbling over across his arm and chest.
"Mmm.. I couldn't imagine a better way to spend an evening," she spoke, staring up through the ceiling of pine, then to Cauwyn, her eyes locking to his, and going distance, going deep.
Cauwyn listened quietly as Katahnia spoke of her uncle, and her father. He puffed quietly on his pipe, watching her, studying her, but why he could not say. Not until she got caught up, that was what he had been looking for. When she carefully thought out her words Cauwyns face may have shown passive casual interest, but his heart was pounding loud enough he thought the nearest town could hear it!
But her answer came, her choice, and it was him. Him over riches and fancy clothes and what ever else it was that nobility did. He didn't know if he could have made the same choice if their roles were reversed. He had flirted at the edge of wealth, but the price to keep it was too high. But to have it just because of a name? Could he ask her to give that all up? Sure, she was happy now, but what about those months when the snows came? What would they do for money and food in this new life of theirs? As far as Cauwyn was concerned he had only one marketable skill, warfare. And Katahnia? She would try, he knew that, but in the end they had no real means to support themselves.
As Katahnia settled against him he smiled down at her and his worries seemed to melt away. As long as she was here, he would find away. He tilted his head back to blow away the smoke from his pipe and then looked down at her, their eyes locking. His smile grew wide and Cauwyn leaned down, kissing the top of her head.
"If that's what ya want," He said quietly, "then I'm happy. But, don't give up somethin' owed to ya just because of me, yeah? In the end, th' truth of the matter is that ya are nobility an' that entitles ya to more than I can give ya. Just, ya know, know that, yeah? That I'll do my best, I promise ya that, but I can't ever give ya the life you were used t'.."
When Cauwyn mentioned giving up what could be owed to her, her face visibly fell and she turned away. It did pain her to think she might have to give up any title or money owed to her, if there was even a hope for that, and in all honesty, that was part of the reason she had originally wanted to go. She hadn't considered falling inlove with a scoundrel; a scoundrel who was her savior, her everything.
She didn't realize her mouth was open until it ran dry. Licking it, she pressed her lips together before turning to him, smiling warmly again.
"People do this sort of thing all of the time. I'm sure whatever may lay int he path before us, we can conquer it,"she said seriously, then gave him a leftward smirk and nudged her shoulder against him while her green eyes danced. "Besides, we have the toughest horse in all of the country."s he teased. The horse made a noise, not certain if he liked the joke. "The three of us together could do anything!"
Really.. to the horse, he WAS a hero. HER hero. Not this ratty haired man.
He wanted to keep arguing with her about it. Tell her that no, people didn't do this sort of thing all the time. Very few members of nobility ever gave up their positions to live as a commoner, just as very few commoners ever rose to the ranks of nobility. Yes, it made for fancy stories told by the bards, but Cauwyn was a firm believer that those stories were lies.
Instead however, Cauwyn just gave her a frustrated sigh and rolled his eyes back when she mentioned the strength of the horse. The horse was a dumb animal. A dumb animal that seemed to know when you are talking about him, and smart enough to actively piss Cauwyn off, but a dumb animal all the same..
"Pssh," Cauwyn said as he wrapped his arm tighter around Katahnia's shoulder and pulled her in close, "shoulda traded that damn horse for a ass or mule or somethin'.." He grumbled around the stem of his pipe, though he did a poor job of hiding his smile, "now we're stuck with th' damn thing 'til we get t' your uncles.. Maybe we'll be lucky an' they'll wanna cut 'em up, use him for meat.."
Katahnia smiled as Cauwyn drew her near. But she couldn't help but feel a bit squirmish. Despite what she said, she was still inwardly hesitant. But being at his side felt so right. Turning, she leaned in to kiss his cheek softly, a smile growing on her lips as she did.
It was only then she shivered and snuggled in even closer to him.
"This is perfect," she said after a time, her eyes going distant, reflecting off a dream. "Just you and me beneath this cozy pine. A small fire burning, the smell of the pipe, the warmth of your body.." She blushed a little at the thought.
If every night could be like this, she knew she could have the strength to endure it, to endure anything.
"Perhaps we ought to call it a night?" she said after a time. "Or did you want to practice with our new weapons?" she recalled the way he looked inside the smith's. "It might do me a world of good to get used to that new sword we bought incase...." she held her breath, then smiled warmly. "Well, just to be safe. Besides, it's been known that practice makes perfect."
Cauwyn relaxed in half-lidded contentment as Katahnia snuggled closer. The warmth of her body against him brought about all kinds of interesting emotions and physical reactions and when she mentioned retiring for the night Cauwyn flashed a wolfish smile. He was certainly looking forward to that..
Then she mentioned the swords and his eyes widened somewhat in surprise. He had nearly forgotten about them! With a nod he began shifting beneath her, pushing himself up, "Yeah, that's pro'lly for the best. We'll see how ya feel with this new blade, make sure ya like it an' its weighted right.." He paused before actually getting up, taking another long draw from his pipe before giving Katahnia a light smack on her rump, "Go an' fetch your sword. I'll be ready.."
As she moved off, Cauwyn smiled after her for a moment before setting about to ready himself. He emptied his pipe and blew it out, making sure it was cool before putting it away along with his tobacco. Then he slowly stood, muscles aching and joints popping as he stretched. Cauwyn swung his arms in a few sweeping circles and then, satisfied they were stretched, began bouncing on his toes to get his blood pumping.
Leaning down next to the fire Cauwyn picked up his sword belt and through the baldric over his shoulder, cinching the belt at his waist. He followed up by picking up his shield and strapping the thing to his arm. Drawing his sword Cauwyn gave the blade a couple of spins forward and back to loosen up his wrist and then started toward a clearing away from the fire.
"Alright," He said with a smile, turning toward Katahnia, "T'night your gonna try fightin' a fella with a shield. It's a bit different, obviously, so yer gonna have t' watch not just m' sword, but th' shield too, yeah?"
OOC: I Should be sleeping but..
I POST ANYWAY!
So.. sorry if it's crappy and lame D:
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Katahnia gave a yelp when he smacked her rear.
"Cauwyn!" she shouted, though it was hard to chastise the man, or take her seriously, when she was smiling about it. "I'll be sure to make you pay for that." she promised, nose to the air in good humor as she strolled off and fetched up her supplies. Slipping the blade from it's sheath, she admired the blade for a moment and the way it seemed to glow int he moon light. Smiling, she noticed her reflection, but then behind her, she could see Cauwyn preparing himself and at his words to be wary about his shield, she turned around suddenly, crying out as her sword struck and smacked off the side of the shield suddenly- the noise loud and sharp before she pulled away, dancing lightly upon her feet with a grin.
"So you're going to cheat?" she said, eyes dancing as she began to dance around him, feeling the rhythm in her stride, testing the weight of hte blade as she eyed him, smirking. "That will just make your defeat all the sweater by trying to cheat me out of it by using your shield."
BUt she couldn't help but smile, recalling the time they spent beneath him as he protected her from those men....
Washing the thought away, she made a quick dash to the left and swung up, hoping to catch his arm holding his blade off guard, before swinging back in hopes to disrupt the weight of the hold on his shield, before stepping back against and thrusting forward, hoping to nail a light poke to his shirt on his stomach.
Katahnia's initial strike almost caught him by surprise, but instinct took over and he tucked his arm against his body bracing for the blow. The sound reverberated through the forest causing Duskrider to snort and flatten his ears as he gave Cauwyn a vicious glare. Cauwyn paid the horse no mind, keeping hard eyes locked onto Katahnia. She was used to training with the loving hand of her father. Cauwyn had never had that luxury growing up. He had learned, and as a result survived, because the lessons he had been taught were as brutal as they were effective.
"There's no cheatin' in a fight, princess.." He reprimanded as he watched her begin to dance around him, goading him. Her smile was a stark contrast to the hard set of his jaws and intense stare of his eyes, "Just winnin' or dyin'.. Sometimes, both.."
As she lunged left Cauwyn raised his shield, but instead of striking shield side she swung for his sword arm. While he may have looked hard and stoic outside, inwardly Cauwyn was pleased at the tactic. It was smart and with her lighter weight and speed a solid choice. All he had time for was to pull his sword arm back, his blade catching hers as they rang out in the night. From there she struck across at his shield to throw him off balance. Had she been a two-hundred plus man it may have worked. Unfortunately he had her on weight and strength, so what little give his shield had wasn't much of an opening. As she lunged in Cauwyn twisted his hips hard to the left to create space without backing up and giving ground.
His counter attack was simple and practical. None of the fancier sword play that was seen more in theaters and duels than on the battlefield. Had he been wearing armor he could have trapped her sword with his shield against his body, but dressed as he was that would have been asking to be disemboweled. Instead as he turned Cauwyn drove his sword down vertically in front of his body striking his blade against hers and driving it down towards the ground and away from his vulnerable core.
Immediately he pushed off with his left foot thrusting forward with his hips to throw weight behind his left arm, which drove his shield forward like a punch. The shield rim was steel and though recently mended, still held a few kicks and dings that just couldn't be hammered out. Of course he was fully prepared to stop himself, to pull back at the last second before he actually hit her. A strong shield strike could break bones and gash skin, neither of which he much cared for the idea of happening to her!
His sword strike pushed her back, and when the shield came forward, her eyes went wide to see him using it as a weapon. SHe barely had enough time to slip back and away, sword sliding from his as she jumped back, braced the weapon before her as some sort of shield and let out a noise the moment the shield bashed off of it and sending her off balance as she went down to one knee in the mud.
Yes, this shield was not fair at all. Pushing off the ground, she panted and gestured towards him.
"How am I suppose to get around that?" she started, frowning a bit before she smiled. "But I suppose there must be away. After all, you're only human and as vulnerable as I." Her eyes glittered with mirth, her eyes ever tactful, taking in his stance, his weapons and trying to think of a way to get through it. She had to get him to drop it somehow-
but how? SHe didn't want to actually harm him, not that she ws sure if she really could.
Just because she knew some swordplay, she was well aware Cauwyn was probably ten times better than her at this sort of thing. So, keeping that in mind, she contemplated playing off of that fact. Cauwyn was better than her. SO she made a tired noise, shook her hand loose against the hold upon her sword before attempting at him against, smacking her sword a few times off of his shield to see how he'd handle it before drawing away, keeping always light on her feet, before dropping to her knees suddenly, and sweeping a leg towards his, hoping to send the man off balance while her sword arm pinned her weapon to the ground behind her to give her an extra ounce of power in her vault. It might have seemed a silly move, considering his shield could smash her legs if she was not careful, but she was hoping she could be just fast enough to have her sweeping legs knock his out.
"Yer faster," Cauwyn growled in response to the question. While his lessons had been beyond brutal, they had been effective. Even still, Cauwyn refused to visit that sort of training onto Kat. When he was a child he had been given no instruction really, simply shown the basics and thrown against seasoned vets to get cut and beaten down. As he grew older, he was punished for losing with even more beatings or flogging or, if he was lucky, extra duties like cooking and cleaning weapons. He learned hard and fast, but he would not do that to her. He couldn't. As Katahnia came to her feet, and called him human, Cauwyn grunted his agreement. She had heart and smarts, and on top of all of it he cared for her too much to hurt her as he had been.
The leg sweep was a good idea, but Cauwyn saw it coming. She had almost distracted him with the probing hits, but they hadn't been strong enough to be a real attack. She was probing him, trying to shift his focus and Cauwyn knew it. When she dropped low and shot out her leg he only had a split second to react. He drove his shield down hard. Hard enough to crack a rock beside her leg, but he missed her leg anyways the shield less than an inch from her knee.
The sweep caught his legs, but even he couldn't fight momentum. His left leg buckled and he stumbled briefly to catch himself only to loose balance entirely. Cauwyn toppled backward, throwing out his sword arm to help break up the fall even as he tucked in his shield arm, protecting his body from such a vulnerable position.
"There ya go!" He growled with an edge to his voice, almost masking the pride, "Coulda crushed yer leg, but yer gettin' it! Cauwyn immediately pulled his legs in and twisted his hips to bring them under him. He came up onto one knee, shield and sword both at the ready, "Come on, now! Ya got me at th' disadvantage!"
Katahnia stumbled back, panting as he was low to the ground. she had to smile as he goaded her on, and gripped on tightly to her sword, nodding as she was quickly back on her feet and swinging her blade at the shield, testing it's weight before deciding to do something, on a whim.
She kept beating at it, keeping his focus merely on her sword before summoning up more strength and thrusting forward, slamming sword to sworda nd raking it heavily across the metal arched front of his shield.
ANd then she backed away a few steps and rushed forward, leaping onto it as he would have been flinching back to parry her initial sword attacks and kicked forward, boots stepping up and over the shield, kicking off and launching herself into the air over him, tumbling as she hugged her knees to her chest and then landed in a crouched behind him in the dirt.
Thrusting her sword forward, she pointed it at Cauwyn, hoping to catch a gentle poke at his ass. Breathing heavy, hair about her face, heart racing inside her chest while her eyes sparkled in excitement.
He was starting to get a little angry with her. While she uselessly hammered away at his shield dulling her new blade Cauwyn knelt gathering his breath. He was still sore from the previous two days and while he enjoyed the rest, the fact she was letting him rest only proved how far she had to go. She still thought of this as a game. Cauwyn decided then he would need to change her mind and though he knew she'd be mad, he set himself to the task.
Before he could act however she changed her tactic attacking at his sword. Cauwyn practically snarled with anger at the assault, easily parrying aside her blade as it drew across his sword and pushed his shield back giving him even more protection. And then something unexpected happened. Before he could react he felt her weight hit his shield. Confused at first, as his vision was blocked by the shield briefly, he was about to push her to the ground when the weight disappeared. For a split second he caught sight of her above him and his eyes widened with shock.
Cauwyn launched himself to his feet and turned hard to his shield side, tucking the shield against him. He felt the shield rim meet the blade and push it aside, away from him, but he also felt the blade tip dig a neat little scratch against part of his ass cheek and hip. He hunkered into a defensive position, shield in front of him and sword leveled point first toward her, but made no move to attack. Over the top of the shield the surprised look on his face slowly turned into a proud smile.
"If'n ya were tryin' t' kill me," He said in a much lighter tone that held the hint of pride, "Ya woulda gashed me good 'nough to hobble me.." Cauwyns head nodded approvingly, "That points yers, princess.."
And then just as quickly the accolades were over. Cauwyn lunged forward, shield first, and then swung his the heavy metal shield in a wide swath to clear his path. At the same time he pivoted on his front foot and pushed off on his back, throwing his hip into it as he swung his sword down in diagonal arc toward her, starting the exercise again. She had impressed him and that only meant training would get harder for her from here on out.
Katahnia smiled at him, cheeks blushing softly at his words. So she stuck her chin out.
"Then I shall take the point," she said with a graceful bow, then raised her sword again, only to be surprised when Cauwyn came after her again. She wasn't entirely prepared for it, and found herself stumbling back a few paces to get out of the way, tripping over her boots as her back landed against the hard bark of a tree. Yelping in surprise, she thrust her blade out defensively, bracing herself in case he came at her in another attack.
OOC: Sorry it's short! Making a few quick posts before bed D:
"Don't give ground!" Cauwyn chastised with an angry growl. Though she had been surprised and had tripped back against the tree, Cauwyn showed her no mercy. Because no one would show her any if she were in a real fight. With her back against the tree, Cauwyn tucked his shield in close and swung his sword in a horizontal arc in front of him, aiming for her sword. If he could knock it away, she would be exposed. And he had his shield ready to teach her how dangerous being backed against a wall(or tree) and exposed could really be.
OOC: A quick post in the mornin'~
Also, we're at 28 pages now 8D
---------------
Katahnia gave a gasp when the sword came after her. It seemed their training was hardly over, even after a few clumsy steps. It made her smirk a little Cauwyn was being so serious in her training. It reminded her of her own training. Her father was softer on her than her actual instructor, and she felt thrilled at the chance to have a real challenge set before her- a method and way to try to improve herself.
Raising her hand to defend, she felt his blade smack heavily against hers so hard it vibrated her blade fiercely, the sensation stinging her hands at she let out a grunt, nearly dropping her weapon but opened her eyes just in time to realize, even if she was keeping his sword back from slicing her, his shield would be ready to easily smash her against the tree. Panicked, she kicked her foot out against his shield and tried pressing back on his blade, but he held it so tightly and fiercely against her own smaller blade, she ended up dropping it clumsily in her attempts, and the only thing she could do now was leap to her side in a roll to avoid either sword or shield coming after her, and found herself rising back to her feet, now swordless as she danced lightly, keeping her hands braced before her, trying to anticipate Cauwyn's next move.
OOC: Woo! 28!!
IC:
He hadn't expected to disarm Katahnia, but when he did it Cauwyn didn't even pause. She managed to jump out of the way just in time, his shield slamming hard and loud against the tree trunk she had braced herself against. Cauwyn whirled about quickly, shield first, and found himself facing an unarmed duchess. Once again he hefted his shield and steadied his sword, point first, pointing it at her from behind his shield.
"Do ya wanna try this without a sword?" Cauwyn asked with a only the hint of a smile. While he thought that it might be good training, even in his current state Cauwyn knew that maybe he was asking too much of the girl. After all, there weren't too many men who could survive once their swords left their hands. It was practically a death sentence on the battlefield. Luckily when Cauwyn was a child, Bryn had taught him to fight with his hands first. Elven techniques that were smooth used body momentum and joint manipulation over brute force, "Alls ya gotta do is say nah, an' I'll let ya pick it up.." and with that said, Cauwyn moved between her and her sword.
Katahnia smiled and shook her head.
"No, I don't need it," she said, jutting her chin out just a bit in a show of arrogance and pride. "After all, I won't always have a weapon to defend myself against bandits or other cruel men." she reasoned, her green eyes sparkling. Gesturing to Cauwyn, she pressed, "Let's continue and see where this goes." but she wasn't about to make the first move this time, eyes going to where the sword was now, behind Cauwyn and on the forest floor, then back to him, eyes ever studying his face, his movement, his breath.
She nodded again, letting him know she was ready as she tensed, moving lightly on the balls of her feet and scouted the area, contemplating a new plan of action. It would be do or die if Cauwyn was actually a criminal, and she wanted to see if she could face this sort of challenge just yet.
Cauwyn flashed a brief, but proud, smile as she decided to continue. It faded away back into that hard indifferent mask, however, as Cauwyn began to slowly advance toward her. She was waiting for his move, which was good. Inwardly Cauwyn was very impressed with Katahnia's skill, though outwardly he showed nothing but restrained anger.
He feigned a forward lunge with his shield, but stopped up short on his lead foot. Forcing his weight back, Cauwyn pushed off with his rear foot and twisted at his hips, driving more power into his sword as it swung in a horizontal arc for her head. Realizing of course that she was unarmed, Cauwyn turned his wrist to present the flat of his blade to her. It slowed his swing down somewhat, but it was better than accidentally cutting off Katahnias head!
Cauwyn's movements were slow, but purposeful, but also slower than hers, as she had no blade nor shield to bog her down. So when he began to lunge at her with his shield, she was already dancing back a few paces and had enough momentum going to dodge easily out of the blade's path. However, he was forcing her in a direction away from her weapon, and she'd much rather be in a position to at least consider retrieving it. But if he were a smart 'villain', he'd know best to keep her away from it. But she had to think and had to think fast, lest she fall prey to the 'villain' before her.
Keeping quick on her feet, she looked for anything she could use to her advantage as she kept backing away, trying to keep her distance from Cauwyn as well as drag him away from her weapon so it could remain out in the open, rather than so close behind him.
However, she made no move to attack him, and kept her eyes solely focused on him, ever calculating on her next move.
OOC: Ever calculating, since her rper has no idea 8D *brain dies*
Cauwyn followed after her as she backed away, increasing the distance between himself and her sword. His focus was on Katahnia, perhaps a bit overconfident in his ability to keep her away from her weapon lying discarded on the ground. She was nimble and much quicker than he was, probably even if he wasn't weighed down with a shield and sword Cauwyn considered.
He gave her a few half-hearted swings of his sword, just to keep her on her toes and keep her guessing, cutting a few arcs through the air. Pulling his shield back against himself, Cauwyn launched himself forward in a sprint and lunged shield first at her, his sword held out trailing behind him. He was ready for when his foot landed to use his own momentum to throw himself around, bringing his sword back around for a vertical strike down onto her.
Katahnia was light on her feet, hopping this way and that to remain out of his sword swings, but when he lunged forward, Katahnia found herself needing to tumble away, and she did it with a purpose, dropping to the floor and tumbling to his right, and at his side, rising back up in his blind spot before quickly backing away before he would follow through with another swing and-
held her palms out before her as she summoned a quick bolt of lighting that hissed between them-
Knowing it was coming, she shielded her eyes, but she hoped the lighting was enough to temporarily startle and blind her opponent as she turned tail and ran, rushing over to her blade and smiling once she retrieved it and smiling over at Cauwyn in triumph, only to realize, a moment later, the skies over head cracked with thunder. It seemed her magic caused the over cast skies to suddenly swell, and now rain began to fall. Blinking, she merely smiled and lifted her chin in a taunting manner, goading Cauwyn to press on as she twirled her sword with some finesse.
"I hope it's ok I use my magic," she said, eyes dancing playfully.
As Katahnia ducked and rolled out of the way, Cauwyns sword sliced through empty air. He grunted his displeasure at the duchess' speed and agility, whirling around to continue his attack as she disappeared behind him and toward her sword. He barely got a step before the bolt of lightning slammed into the ground between them.
While he wasn't exactly afraid of magic, it was definitely something Cauwyn disliked. For better reasons than most, as he had actually survived fireballs and lightning strikes just to name a few.. It didn't do much to endear the mystical to a person. And though magic didn't affect him, the blinding light created by the lightning strike certainly did. Cauwyn raised his shield defensively to protect his eyes, though he was hardly fast enough. As the light began to fade and his vision return, Cauwyn had to be begrudgingly impressed with her ingenuity.
"Fuck.." He growled, blinking his eyes repeatedly as it was now his turn to begin backing up defensively as he waited for his vision to return. Cauwyn raised his shield defensively, struggling to listen for her approach as dark shadows began to gain definition and become objects around him. Her smug comment garnered her a grunt, "Only fair fights th' one ya lost.." As thunder cracked above and rain began to fall, Cauwyn did his best to ignore it trying instead to focus on Katahnia..
Katahnia smiled and gave a playful laugh, lunging forward with her sword as it poked at his shield. She could tell he was still temporarily blinded so she went easy on him, but not for long. Drawing her weapon back, she went back into a light dance before him, body becoming slicked with rain, hair matting down against her forehead as she struck out her blade a few times, trying to goad out his own.
"Come on, Cauwyn. How am I to learn to defend myself if you can't get past a little bit of magic?" she teased, knowing full well her trick was a little dirty- but she was still playful about it none the less.
As the rain came down upon them, the clang of Katahnia's sword on Cauwyns shield was lost in the thunder. He continued to back track, his vision returning well enough to begin putting more effort into blocking her blows. Her goading brought a smile to his face however and as his vision cleared Cauwyns attention shifted as he watched the rain fall over her.
"A'right.." Cauwyn said with a smirk, giving his sword a spin in his hand, "Ya wanna play like that, yeah? Well, lets up th' ante then, yeah?" Cauwyn readied his shield once more and cocked back his arm, again leveling his sword toward Katahnia, "How 'bout this? Winner gets th' loser, just like if'n this were real life, yeah? You get me t' yield, I'm yers for th' night. I get you t' yield, well.." He chuckled with a playful smirk, giving a slight shrug, "Ya can 'magine what I plan on doin' with ya.."
Katahnia had been dancing about on her feet excitedly, but at the new prospect Cauwyn brought up, she paused, eyes going big.
"C-cauwyn!" she sputtered, shaking her head with a laugh. "What an awful-" She shook it away, sticking her nose into the air with a smirk. "So you're saying all I have to do is beat you in combat and you're all mine for the evening?" She narrowed her eyes playfully, twirling her own sword about at her side. "I suppose the horse could use a good brushing..' she began, suddenly lunging towards him, but with less effort, she was, after all, trying not to laugh.
He'd received the reaction he had been hoping for and his smirk grew a bit more smug as Katahnia sputtered over the idea. Capitalizing, Cauwyn prepared to launch forward with another strike when she responded with a threat of her own. He paused mid lunge, his eyes widening a bit and his mouth falling open.
"Wha-?" He snapped his mouth shut and scowled, moving forward with wide sweeping blows aimed to parry away her assault rather than use his shield. He kind of felt like hitting something! "Now that ain't even fair! Mine'd be fun for th' both of us!" He attacked again with renewed vigor, he'd be damned if he was going to brush one hair of that stupid horses hair! If it wanted to get brushed, it could do it its self!
Katahnia let out a noise, and a laugh, feeling the numbing ring of her sword vibrating after his hit off of it. It was quite a fierce hit! She nearly lost her grip and had to step away. Finding more strength on her grip to the hilt, she swung at him again, smacking her blade against his.
"What's wrong, Cauwyn?" she teased. "A deal is a deal." She danced lightly, scraping her blade down his in order to make the desired noise- a most irritating noise, like a hiss, before smacking her blade yet again against his in a few quick hits.
"Besides, it would be appropriate you two spend some time bounding rather than hating one another," she said simply, still dancing about and throwing her blade with extra confidence and finesse.
By now the horse's attention had picked up as it swung it's ears in their direction, blinking somewhat in confusion as to what was going on. It very well knew that scowl the man wore and.. well...
He wanted to know why.
OOC: What!? Cauwyn meme! LOL! Love it!
IC:
"The more time we spend together," Cauwyn growled as sword rang off sword between the two of them, "the more I'm gonna hate that dumb beast! An' it," He ducked a swing and then swung back with his shield, missing with a frown, "is gonna hate me!"
Cauwyn spun his sword and stepped forward, no longer willing to stay on the defense. No, not when Katahnia had put such high stakes on their little game. Cauwyn had been trying to be cute, maybe a little distracting, but in the end they would have both had fun! Not now though, now he was actually worried about losing. About having to deal with that stupid horse and its dumb fur and it's giant hooves and giant teeth!
He twisted suddenly and pointed the sword tip in the direction of the confused looking horse, shouting, "I'll see ya in the nine hells 'fore I brush one 'air on your head!" And then he whirled back toward Katahnia, intent on making his statement true!
OOC: I KNOW. It's great and amuses me terribly!
For as terrible as it would seem...
Katahnia was laughing when Cauwyn turned his rage suddenly upon the horse, and found herself stumbling a little bit when he upped the ante. It seemed his swings were much harder, more sharper, and with an aggressive intent.
Though she collected herself quickly, tucking back a smile as her sword bit sharply against his.
"Now, now, Cauwyn," she continued with her playful goading. "Every knight needs a trusty steed!" she pressed, dodging underneath another sword swipe and side stepping away with another bat of her own sword to his. "Have you never heard of all of those legends about the Calvary? And all of those knights riding gallantly across the battle field for love and virtue?" She smiled positively wickedly as she remained on the defensive, back stepping to avoid his more powerful swings as they met metal to metal before she caught his blade iwth her own and leaned in, glaring at him playfully.
"What if I were to get caught and you needed to rescue me and your only chance was to trust our horse?" she pushed a bit into their interlockign blade. "Am I doomed to fall prey to whatever this evil villain might hav ein store?" Smirking, she pushed again, sliding her sword up higher. "Or, will my valiant knight rise to the challenge?"
"A good set of long spears.." Cauwyn grunted out his words between the efforts of both attacking and defending himself in their dance of swords, "can bring down a cavalryman. Better t' be on the ground, where ya got room... t' maneuver!" His words were punctuated each with strikes Katahnia easily parried or dodges. When their swords locked, Cauwyn growled and pushed back, rising to the challenge.
"An' 'course I would come after ya.." Though Cauwyn was bigger and stronger, he was also wielding a bigger sword and a heavy shield. This meant that while their swords were interlocked, he only had one hand on his while she had both. Slowly, but steadily, Cauwyn was losing their duel, "An' if'n I had t' get there fast, yeah, sure.. I might need th' dumb thing. But, only if'n I would ever let that happen!"
As she pushed harder, Cauwyn had no choice but to step back and lose ground of face having his arm give out. He raised his shield, trying to brace his sword with it, but it was a temporary solution at best. Her last comment however broke his angry glare and a broad, wolfish grin split his lips as he looked at her past swords and shield, "An' I always rise t' the challenge, thought ya woulda learned that by now!"
Katahnia smiled proudly at his comments. It made her feel good to know he wouldn't (at least not on purpose) let anything befall her. But as they kept parrying one another, she couldn't help but smile through a laugh at his last comment. If she hadn't have spent so much time with Cauwyn already, his lewd comment would have been lost.
"Cauwyn!" she chided, shaking her head, though her chastises did not deter her smile as it remained, un-erasable upon her lips. "But how can you rise to the occasion if you're on the ground after I kick out your legs?" she smirked, and before he might be able to answer, she pushed her sword heavily against his, then swung her arm out, freeing her blade and dropping suddenly to the ground, legs kicking forward and scissoring around his, hoping to drop him off his feet in one swift surprise.
... And for months, their relationship would last, until they ran into unrest further south. Turns out, Katahnia's family wasn't the only ones that had suffered mage oppression. And as Cauwyn and Katahnia traveled together, they eventually ran into a woman from 'The Free Folk', who was a free spirit, like the wind. Though times were tough, Katahnia and Cauwyn's relationship began to strain, and one night, upon coaxing Cauwyn into having a little fun with her, Katahnia found her lover sleeping with their friend.
Upset, Katahnia left him after a terrible fight, slapping him hard across the face and telling him she never wanted to see him ever again. It was here Katahnia's true journey began, where she met up with her Uncle in the duchy of Turgall, then found out she was pregnant. Keeping her identity and the birth a secret, she gave birth to Cauwyn's daughter while hoping to contact him one last time, as her heart still ached for her first true love, all the while she finds herself becoming betrothed to her cousin while her Uncle tries to help her find her way back into society...
Little did she know where her path would lead her to as Connlaoth was heading for war....
Would she ever see Cauwyn again? Would she ever be able to see her child again? And would her family's legacy ever be truly realized in a nation as closed minded as Connlaoth?
OOC: This ends this thread! Since the other player went MIA, I just summarized the events that we had plotted to have happen and more of Katahnia's adventures can be found in this thread: The Political Party (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=14786.msg137537#msg137537).