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Centaur Mistress

Brighid awoke with start, jerked from the last vestiges of a dream whose images slipped away like smoke evaporating on the wind. It left her feeling disconcerted. The pre-dawn grey light filtered through the canvas of the pavilion, but the only real illumination was what little reddish glow came from the embers of the fire, now nearly out. She knew she had experienced horrible dreams throughout the night, but was left with no memory of the specifics. But the dream that had awakened her was different. She knew only that it had been about Keleth, and that it wasn't all bad. It had left her feeling a little strange though.

As she tried to remember what the dream had been about, she glanced over at the sleeping form of the girl, noting how her small body had curled up into a tight ball to try to preserve the warmth, the blankets having shifted to leave her nudity partly exposed. Brighid wondered how the humans could ever stay warm, with their furless skin. Even though her own torso was furless, her equine body gave her enough body heat to resist the cold.

Stirring from her sleeping position, she stretched to her feet and put some wood on the fire, then knelt to carefully arrange the blankets over Keleth's sleeping form. For a moment, Brighid fought the overwhelming urge to touch those smooth unusually shaped legs. She wondered what they would feel like, what those smooth firm graceful muscles would do under her touch. She caught herself reaching out to touch one bare calf just peeking out from under the blankets.

No. That wouldn't be right. And besides, she'd only met the girl the day before. And after the conversation they'd had in answer to Keleth's question, Brighid was sure an innocent touch would be taken the wrong way. Was that what she had been dreaming about, Brighid wondered?

The idea shocked her. Was she going to be one of those centaurs who fooled around with her attendant? She knew her time was coming upon her in a matter of days, perhaps weeks at most. Were her breeding hormones already affecting her thoughts?

She stood up abruptly, reaching for the jug from the night before. Taking a deep draw from it, she drank greedily, recalling the chastising words Keleth had delivered the night before. The girl had naturally assumed it was more wine, or other spirits. Brighid had decided not to correct that assumption.

She wasn't sure why. Maybe it was a little bit of rebelliousness on her part, resenting the motherly tone of voice the little woman used with her. Maybe it was just that Brighid didn't care about what the human keeper thought about her. At least that's what she wanted to tell herself. But maybe, just maybe, it was the idea that she didn't think herself worthy of the near hero worship the girl seemed to offer, and was willing to let Keleth believe the worst of her.

She gulped deeply of the tepid spring water in the jug. Last night it had been naturally chilled, bracing. It had even helped sober her, if anything. She knew that without the wine she'd face the night terrors unshielded, but it had meant something to her to face up to Keleth's expectations of her, despite her bravado and making a show of not caring what anyone thought. Brighid drank deeply again, chasing away the last of the vestiges of sleep befogging her body when she lifted the jug and poured the remaining water over her head and torso. A few droplets splashed on Keleth's sleeping form.

Brighid reached for her halter and armor, intending to get dressed quietly for her morning briefing without waking Keleth unnecessarily. The raiders had developed new tactics they had deployed against the centaur cavalry in the previous battle, and the officers were meeting to discuss strategies to counter them. Brighid knew that the heavy casualties they had suffered were the result of the surprise they had encountered, and a lack of preparation for the new tactics. Several mares had been killed in utter futility, and Brighid wanted to make sure it didn't happen again.

She struggled on with her torso armor, but decided that she didn't need to completely armor up for just a briefing on tactics. Instead she covered her equine body with a long cloak to ward off the morning chill. She'd get some more water from the spring first, she decided, eliminating the need for Keleth to leave the camp. Moments later found her at the spring.

The late autumn morning was crisp and chilly, the fallen leaves crunching under her hooves as she carried the full kegs back to her pavilion. Her senses were alert for the slightest hint of any trouble, but it seemed to be a peaceful morning. She knew it wouldn't last though. After the new tactics were decided upon, there would be training drills, a long afternoon of practice combat, sweat and possibly blood, weary muscles and plenty of bruises. She'd be glad to have an attendant to rub her down when it was all over.
She left the water kegs in the pavilion for Keleth to find, pausing for one more look at the sleeping form before heading for the briefing.
 
When Keleth awoke, she was shivering, though the blankets were completely covering her. Without the fire burning, the cold morning easily went through the thin fabric of the tent. Keleth quickly got up and dressed, feeling groggy, hoping that Brighid slept some and was feeling better than the previous evening. Thinking of a hearty breakfast, Keleth put on her boots and gathered the tray and prepared to leave the tent. As she held the tray, her nose moved over the empty flask, and she was struck by a sudden thought. No smell of wine. She immediately set the tray back down and lifted the pitcher, smelling it more intently, then turned it over. Several drops of liquid fell to the floor, clear.

Keleth smiled brightly. Her Mistress didn't drink wine the previous evening. The smile suddenly turned to a frown. That explained the dreams that Brighid was obviously having. Keleth knew she had to find a way to keep Brighid from drinking wine. She was proud of her Mistress for showing incredibly strength, to face such dreams, but Keleth knew more needed to be done.

Her stomach rumbled again, and she gathered the tray once more and exited the tent. The sounds of murmured conversation and slow motion filled the encampment. A mist hung in the air and it made the large forms of the mare warriors like shadows. Smaller figures were moving also, attendants going to breakfast, like Keleth, or getting rid of rubbish or fetching water. As Keleth crossed the compound, she saw the quartermaster approaching.

"Your Mistress' tent will be delivered after breakfast. The drills will prevent any of the guards to help you move furniture, so you are on your own to do so." The quartermaster seemed rather short, but it was early in the morning. Keleth nodded.

"If it's possible, I would like some spare clothes. I only have two sets for the moment, and I'm sure I will be here for an extended period of time." The quartermaster nodded curtly, but said nothing else. Keleth didn't think it was right to push anymore, so she moved past and on to the mess tent. Inside was relatively quite, with the mares out already, and only a few attendants up to eat. Keleth returned the tray to the cooks and was given a bowl of porridge with berries and a flagon of water. She sat and ate quietly and quickly, not wanting to draw attention to herself. She was not afraid of anyone, but didn't feel the need for conflict early in the morning.

When Keleth felt a presence close by, she expected the worst, but when she turned her head, she found the sleepy, smiling face of Brennan.

"Good morning!" said Brennan brightly, her sleepy eyes sparkling as she sat down next to Keleth and dug immediately into her porridge. Keleth was a bit unsure how to respond to the greeting, but managed a mile, and continued to eat as Brennan devoured her breakfast.

Once finished, Brennan turned on the bench to face Keleth, and start to talk in a low, but excited voice. Brennan seemed very flushed, and while Keleth could detect the scent of strong soap, there was an underlying scent hanging about her, very earthy, and mildly arousing. Keleth couldn't put her finger on it, but Brennan's quick words brought her attention to Brennan's face.

"I'm so glad to see you here, Keleth. You should get out and learn the camp as soon as possible. I think you will really like it here. It took me a few days to get used to it; I was so scared. My Mistress was very kind to me and showed me everything. She's so wonderful. She's not as strong as your Mistress Brighid, not as powerful, not as…" Brennan got a very dreamy look in her eye, before shaking her head. "Well, anyway, I'm so happy here. I'll help you as much as I can. When I walked across camp, I saw that a new pavilion is being put up for you. They work really quick, don't they! If you want me to come over in the late morning to help move, I will be glad to. I have to be at lunch to serve Mistress, but until then I'm glad to help. I'll meet you over there in a little while." Brennan spoke so fast and stopped so abruptly that Keleth couldn't say two words before Brennan rushed away with her bowl, gave it to the cooks and fled.

Keleth wasn't aware that she had been holding a mouthful of porridge on her spoon, a few inches from her mouth. It was cold, and she stirred it back in the bowl. She found herself finishing quickly, and stopped to get a drink of fresh water, before hurrying back across the compound. Halfway across the camp, a rough voice called out.

"Hold on one moment, shrimp. I want a word."

Keleth frown and turned back to see the attendant from the day before, the gruff, haughty one. Keleth crossed her arms and gave no greeting.
 
Marissa approached with her usual sneer of contempt she reserved for any beings lesser than herself. And this runt was certainly in that category, she thought. Glancing over at where workers were busy erecting the new pavilion, she snorted in derision. "Humph! I see you aren't wasting any time trying to grab more status around here. Well I suppose you have to do something to make up for the reputation of that nag of a mistress of yours. Anyhow, it won't matter when she gets busted down in rank. They'll strip her of those privileges and you'll find yourself living right back in that little dirty wallow again."

She slowly circled Keleth, looking down on her from all angles, judging the impact her words were having. Marissa was trying to rile the smaller girl. It was an effective method of asserting control. She knew she had to assert her own superiority, her higher status as attendant of the Captain of the cavalry troop. Of course, Marissa knew that her mistress wasn't the highest ranking centaur mare in the camp. The camp commander ranked higher, and then each division had their own command structure. There were captains in each unit, and of course, lesser officers like Brighid, a lieutenant. Then lowest in the rank structure were the common troops, those centaur mares who had yet to distinguish themselves enough to earn promotions.

Marissa smiled, deceptively sweet, before continuing. "Oh yes, you didn't know, did you? It won't be long until it happens. You see, they aren't allowed to fight outside of battle. Did you know that? And your nag has a certain arrow wound to explain, doesn't she. Oh, I know you both think you've been so clever in trying to hide it. But I know all about it. And if I were to let it slip out.....Well, it wouldn't take much to make people believe the worst about Brighid. She does enough harm to her reputation herself."

"So, you wanna tell me how she got it? Maybe I can keep a secret if its a good one." She looked meaningfully at the command tent where the centaur officers had been gathering before breakfast, her hinted threat only thinly veiled. For someone like Marissa, knowledge of secrets was a power she could wield over others to get what she wanted. She wasn't sure if Keleth herself had done anything wrong, but it couldn't hurt to find out. And any information she could dig up on Brighid could be vital to make sure that Brighid couldn't threaten her own mistress' position or rank status.
 
Keleth stared back, marveling at the audacity of the Marissa girl. No doubt Marissa had used these tactics for a long time to further her status, get extra food, or perhaps more. Keleth would not admit anything related to Brighid to some obnoxious attendant, no matter what the threat was.

"What has or hasn't happened to my Mistress is her business, not yours. If you wish to pursue any course of action, do so. I will not be blackmailed by anyone. If you feel the need to play games like this, by all means do so. When it comes down to it, what is more important: the banners, the ribbons, the status, or having a proven warrior on the field of battle?"

Not wanting the conversation to continue any further, Keleth nodded to Brennan, who got up, a little unnerved and followed, and Keleth left Marissa behind. Out in the fresh morning air of the camp, Keleth thought back on what she had said and felt the slightest bit of nervousness and regret. With that kind of daring, Marissa was probably one for retribution, and that might fall on both Brighid and herself. As Brennan caught up, Keleth shrugged to herself. There was nothing she could really do if Marissa was intent on spreading the word about Brighid's wound. If only Keleth had healer's hands, or some special herbal mixture, she might be able to conceal or completely heal the wound.
 
Marissa's jaw dropped open as the new girl spoke quietly but confidently, standing up to her. Nobody stood up to Marissa; not if they knew what was good for them. She glared as Keleth practically dared her to report Brighid's wound, and Marissa tried to think of something witty to say in return. The trouble was, she was a bully, not particularly witty, and she wasn't used to anyone refusing to be cowed. The other problem was that she really didn't know Keleth well enough to have anything on her that she could use as leverage. When she'd learned of the arrow wound Brighid had on her flank, Marissa thought she had something she could hold over the new girl, but her ploy was blowing up right in her face.

She practically steamed as she saw Keleth nod to Brennan, who meekly got up to follow. What the hell was going on here, Marissa wondered. This new runt of a girl was only in camp for less than 24 hours and already she was getting a large pavilion and a following. It wasn't supposed to be happening like that. Marissa thought she'd better try to quell any disobedience on Brennan's part right away, and remind the shyer girl who held all the cards in this camp.

"This isn't over, runt! I'll be seeing you again. Oh, and Brennan, did you ever find that glove you lost? I'll just bet you misplaced it; probably in some deep dank smelly crevice, huh." Marissa sneered, seeing the deep scarlet blush that crept up Brennan's neck and face as she tried to duck away to follow Keleth. Marissa called after, jeering as the embarrassed girl slunk away, "Oh wait, I forgot. You don't bother with gloves, do you, StumpBroke?"

Brennan seemed about to burst into tears, looking around surreptitiously to see if anyone else had heard the cruel comments. She hoped that Keleth wouldn't ask her what Marissa had meant. She had few friends in camp, and had hoped that not only could she find a friend with Keleth, but that maybe by doing so she could spend some time around Brighid too. The young attendant cared greatly for her own mistress, the archer Dyanna; But she had always admired the brave and striking figure of the warrior mare Keleth had the honor of serving.

Brennan thought for sure that Keleth wouldn't want to be around her, especially if she knew what Marissa had been implying. She slunk along in silence behind the quiet but confident new girl. Brennan found she admired the new girl's manner, her assuredness and poise. It gave her a quiet dignity that belied her size, Brennan thought. Keleth might be small, but she stood ten feet tall it seemed like to Brennan. Brennan wished she could be so self assured. She wished she had the nerve to stand up to Marissa, even just once.
 
As they walked in silence, Keleth saw that the new tent was already constructed, and a human woman was placing a bundle just inside.

"Your clothes are there, and the tent is set up." the woman said indifferently, but eyed Keleth and Brennan. She wasn't someone that Keleth had seen yet, but probably worked with the quartermaster. Finally alone, Keleth walked into the large tent, and Brennan followed. The space was much greater than the old tent, and the fresh fabric had a pleasant smell to it. Immediately, Keleth began deciding where the furniture would go, and then she turned to Brennan.

"It doesn't look like anyone has remained to help me bring the furniture over from the old tent. Would you mind helping me; if you don't have duties with your mistress of course? I would be glad of your company." Keleth offered a warm smile to Brennan, who returned it, looking relieved.

"I would be glad to help you Keleth. I won't have any duties until lunchtime. I did my cleaning of our tent late last night because of..." Brennan trailed off with a slight blush, and Keleth made a note to herself to ask about that later. For the moment, there was a lot of work to do. They quickly returned to the old tent, and slowly carried over the table, the stools, and various other smaller items. Several of the larger pieces of furniture would require Brighid's help, but Keleth wanted to make it as easy on Brighid as possible.

At last they had managed to get as much as they could over, and they paused. As they worked, Keleth noticed that Brennan was wincing quite a lot, as if she was already quite sore. Keleth sat next to Brennan on the bench inside the new tent, and started to rub her shoulders a little, hoping to relax and to heal.

"You must be working hard for your Mistress, Brennan. You seem to be sore today, and your muscles are quite tight, especially on the right side. May I ask what your mistress has you doing that is so difficult?"
 
They arrived at Keleth's new pavilion, and Brennan followed her inside, quietly. She wasn't sure if Keleth would still want her around, but so far she hadn't told her to leave. In fact, she hadn't said anything. Brennan waited, unsure how Keleth would treat her now. But when the shorter girl turned and favored her with a warm smile, Brennan couldn't help but beam brightly in return. Keleth asked her to help with moving, and Brennan gushed her answer, almost revealing too much. She saw the look of curiosity in Keleth's eyes, but fortunately Keleth didn't press her for further elaboration.

The two of them worked in companionable silence most of the morning until they had all the furniture and accoutrements that they could manage together moved to the new pavilion. Brennan's muscles ached from the time she spent with her mistress the night before, and moving the heavier things to the new tent reminded her of how much, but she didn't complain. It had all been worth it, after all. She sighed dreamily when she recalled how Dyanna had held her afterward in her steel thewed arms. To be held like that and to feel so special and cared for made all the muscle aches worthwhile.

Brennan came back to herself just in time to see Keleth looking at her curiously. Keleth sat behind her and began to rub her shoulders. It felt so good! Brennan was just beginning to relax and consider how happy she was to have Keleth as a friend when she heard the question that made her nervous fears return.

"You must be working hard for your Mistress, Brennan. You seem to be sore today, and your muscles are quite tight, especially on the right side. May I ask what your mistress has you doing that is so difficult?"

Brennan gulped audibly, suddenly finding it hard to swallow.
 
The blush that crept up the back of Brennan's neck was unmistakable, as was the nervous flutter in her voice when she answered, "Oh, y-you know, just the usual stuff. Tending to her needs and all."

Keleth continued to massage Brennan's muscles, confused, even more so by the embarrassment. "Tending to her needs shouldn't be embarrassing, Brennan. You are her attendant, you should take care of those things. You don't have to be shy around me. I'm not Marissa. I'm your friend, I promise."

Brennan thought quietly for a moment, then turned partly to face Keleth before lowering her eyes, finding herself unable to quite look at her friend for what she had to say. "No, you sure aren't Marissa. And I'm glad of that." She paused, then shyly continued, her voice so low as to almost be unheard. "Keleth, do you know what happens to them? When it's their time, I mean?"

Keleth, seeing the look and flush on Brennan's face naturally put her arm around her new friend. "Time? You mean like our monthly time? My training didn't tell me anything about that. If it's important, please tell me, I want to make sure I take care of Brighid in any way she needs."

Brennan shuddered at the very mention of Brighid's needs as she imagined what it would be like to service the warrior mare. When she looked back at Keleth, there was a distinctive look of envy in her eyes. "I-it's kind of like that, but not really. For them, it's worse. It's more of a need than just a 'condition'. Keleth, it affects their thinking, and how they act, and how they fight. It affects how they concentrate and everything. My mistress told me all of this. She said that everyone knows, but not every attendant will do what it takes to help."

Keleth sat and listened, though even through Brennan's explanation, she didn't exactly understand what Brennan meant. Keleth thought back to her knowledge of animals, and something seemed to click into place. "You mean, the mare's go into heat?"

"Yes, it's something like that, but sometimes they need it more than just during their estrus. It depends on the mare. Didn't Brighid tell you? Didn't she ask you if you would do it?"

Keleth frowned slightly, and shook her head. She wondered how much she should share with Brennan about Brighid. "Mistress Brighid hasn't told me much yet. She... is troubled and I'm trying right now to bring her out of it. I've only been here a day anyhow. I think you should tell me everything. Brighid is rather solitary and proud, and probably wouldn't volunteer such things any way."

Brennan hung her head and blushed, murmuring, "Oh goddess bless! How do I put this?" She took a moment to gather her thoughts, then continued. "Well, it's worse for mares that have been bred before, whether they've ever foaled or not. I guess the younger ones who haven't....well, let's just say they don't know what they're missing I guess. But when the time comes, if your mistress is one of those who are affected real bad, you'll have to... I mean, she'll need you to...." Brennan sighed, unable to find the words.

"To?" Keleth could tell that Brennan was embarrassed, and regretted pushing so far, but she needed to know for Brighid's sake. "Brennan," Keleth softened her voice, "If you are uncomfortable with this, you don't need to speak it."

Brennan smiled shyly then stood up, standing on a low stool, looking down at Keleth. She hesitated for a minute, then quickly mimed an act. She held out her hand as if circling an imaginary opening, through which she slowly pushed her other fist through......then proceeded to push.....up to her forearm.....her elbow...... beyond. Brennan blushed furiously as she glanced at Keleth, murmuring, "Some of them are pretty deep."

She continued pushing her arm into the imaginary hole until up to her bicep, then began to pull out partway, to her wrist, before pushing in again, faster this time, and repeating. It was easy to see now why her right arm was tense and sore. It would be quite a workout. "Mistress likes it to be rather vigorous sometimes. She says it helps her focus to stay satisfied."

Keleth sat, confused, and a little annoyed, preferring to be told things right away and not to guess, but as she watched Brennan, understanding came to her and her mouth dropped open. Brennan was mimicking a stallion mating a mare. "You… you substitute for a stallion? That must be hard work. You poor thing. You did that last night and I've made you do all this work." Keleth took Brennan's arm, firmly, but gently, and start to rub and massage that arm.

Brennan stepped down off the stool and sat beside Keleth again, sighing in relief. "You don't think it's a bad thing to do? You don't hate me now?"

Keleth sighed, taking Brennan's hand. "No, Brennan. It's a wonderful thing to help out your Mistress like that. That must explain the scent on you, and some of Marissa's comments. I bet she feels too proud to help her Mistress that way. I don't think it's disgusting or wrong. If it makes your Mistress happy, and a better warrior, it's the right thing to do."

Brennan blushed again, deeply. "Oh Goddess! You mean you can smell it on me? Oh!!! No wonder she was being so mean! Yes, you're right, some attendants won't do it. I'm sure Marissa doesn't. And some of the mares won't ask for it, no matter how bad it gets for them. But Keleth, I've seen how it gets to them. They may not admit it, but they really do need it. Oh, when I think of how my Mistress holds me afterwards....." Brennan got a dreamy look on her face, as if remembering something she cherished. She slowly turned to Keleth, opening her eyes as she bit her bottom lip. "Oh Keleth, you're so lucky to have Brighid. When I think of how it would be to feel her arms around me after....." She caught herself, realizing what she was saying and to whom. "Sorry, Keleth."
 
Keleth narrowed her eyes at the admission, then smiled. "I can see you revere my Mistress. I won't hesitate to help her through her time if I can. And I think she could use more than one person as a friend and attendant. I will let her know that you are my friend and that you have been very helpful. As solitary as she is, she might allow you to help me during her time, whenever that is."

Keleth gave Brennan a warm, friendly hug, not a quick one, but a long, genuine one. "Thank you, friend, for being honest with me. I won't forget it. If Marissa ever gives you any issue, tell me immediately. I can handle her."

Brennan listened to Keleth's offer with astonished disbelief. Her breathing quickened and she was about to whoop with excitement at the prospect and throw her arms around Keleth, but was pre-empted by the hug. "Thank you, Keleth. I really mean it. I'm glad we're going to be friends. And before it's time, we'll talk again. There are things you will need to know, about how to....you know. It would be better if you could see....but for Mistress Dyanna it's pretty personal. You understand."

Keleth nodded, and kissed Brennan's cheek. Not normally affectionate, Keleth already felt like Brennan was a little sister, in a way and wanted to show that. Keleth then stood up. "It's probably close to the midday meal. Brighid will be back, I'm sure and I should have it ready. Should we go to the mess tent?"

"Oh, and I would like to meet your Mistress at some point, Brennan. Brighid needs allies. I sense she doesn't have many, and if I can help her forge bonds, I will do so."

Brennan nodded as she began walking with Keleth. "I'd love to introduce you to her. She's wonderful, Keleth. She's so strong and yet kind to me. When we...well, afterwards, she always holds me in those strong arms of hers, and tells me how good I made her feel. I always feel so safe and protected. I imagine you will feel the same, if Brighid does that with you. Mistress doesn't wield a sword like your Brighid, but you should see the muscles in her arms and back when she draws her bow!" Brennan sighed like a school girl with a crush and nearly stumbled as she crossed the camp with Keleth.

Keleth, nodded, but in her mind, she thought of being held like that. Her instinct was always to care, to be first, in control, take charge. It let her guard down and be vulnerable, to be cared for. She smiled. It would be nice, very nice to be held, but she didn't think Brighid was the type to do it. She was too rough, too angry, too damaged. Keleth sighed as they approached the mess tent. Such feelings wouldn't stop Keleth from helping Brighid, if necessary.

Brennan cautiously looked around, and lowered her voice. She was clearly and noticeable aroused, as could be seen through her peasant blouse and heard in the tremble in her quiet voice. "I wonder how often your Mistress will want....or need to....'be serviced'."

Keleth took her hand and held Brennan's shoulder, pulling her nearby to a tree, in solitude. "Brennan, listen to me. I know you respect and perhaps revere my Mistress, but for the time being, let me handle things like that. I will come to you if I need help. I know I will, but please let me handle things on my own first." As much as she liked Brennan, the look in Brennan's eyes disconcerted her. Keleth decided to deal with it now.

"I don't want a direct rival, Brennan. I cannot be here constantly looking over my shoulder at you, expecting you to try and take my place. If anything, you could try to take Marissa's place and try to be a better attendant for the Captain."

Brennan looked hurt. "Oh, Keleth, no! I didn't mean.... I would never do that, not to my friend! I...." She lowered her voice, looking around conspiratorially. "I just meant that some mares need or want it more often than just during their time. Keleth, I need you as my friend. Marissa controls everything around here when it comes to us attendants. Everybody is either afraid of her or tries to be her buddies so she'll be nice to them. You're the first one who's stood up to her."

Keleth moved closer to whisper. "I'm not afraid of Marissa. I will stand up to her as much as I need to. And I didn't say that to push you away, Brennan. Only to make sure there isn't a misunderstanding. As you can tell, I'm very direct."

"I've noticed. Hey, but you did say maybe I could help you sometime?"

"Yes, once I've done it with my Mistress alone. I think she would feel… cornered if it was both of us. Trust me, I will include you if she allows it."

Brennan grinned as if she'd bust something open, impulsively taking Keleth's hand and squeezing it. "Hey, maybe if you have some free time later I could show you around the outer camp bazaar. They usually have a lot of interesting things there, stuff the troop won't have."

"I'd like that, Brennan. You can show me everything this afternoon, and perhaps tell me more about how I can help my Mistress." Keleth gave Brennan one last hug, then guided her back to the mess tent to get the midday meal.
 
Now that the embarrassment was past, Brennan couldn't seem to stop chatting, and bent Keleth's ear throughout the meal. Marissa was suspiciously absent from the mess tent. Fortunately for Keleth's patience, her endless conversation, during which she rarely got to add anything, came to an abrupt stop when a shadow loomed over her shoulder. Brennan stopped in mid-word, her eyes shining up in admiration, letting Keleth know exactly who stood behind her.

"Keleth, I need you now. Are you finished eating?" Brighid spoke quietly.

Keleth stood up, rather quickly. "Yes, Mistress, I can come right away. This is Brennan. She is my friend and I hope that you will come to consider her a friend too. She will introduce me to her Mistress Dyanna." She searched Brighid's face for a clue as to what need she might have sought her for.

Brennan stammered, attempting to find words to overcome her sudden star struck state. Brighid only smiled indulgently, politely. "Dyanna is in the archer corps, right? We'd be lost without them. Especially now. The new tactics will be heavily relying on your mistress and her comrades to help us." Brighid shifted her attention to Keleth. "I will need your help to get ready, Keleth. There are to be full combat drills this afternoon to practice new battle tactics. Full armor is required."

Keleth bowed. "Yes Mistress." Keleth paused and gave Brennan a warm hug, in front of Brighid to prove their friendship, then left with one last smile. "Mistress, Brennan and I were able to move most of your things over to the new tent this morning. She was a great help. There are a few larger pieces that we couldn't do on our own."

Brighid nodded to Brennan, reserved still. "That's fine. Thank you for helping, Brennan. Maybe you could come by later to visit with Keleth if you wish, and if your mistress permits it." Brighid turned, and began to walk, pausing at the tent's entrance to wait for Keleth unexpectedly. Crossing to the new pavilion next to her old one, she looked around, then glanced down at Keleth. "You have been working hard today, haven't you. Well, you can have some time this afternoon to yourself. I'll be busy with the drills. You should do something you like for a change. We can move the rest of the things afterward." Brighid turned and put her hand lightly on Keleth's shoulder, an unaccustomed gesture. "Your friend seems nice. I'm glad you're meeting people."

Keleth turned, feeling the warm pressure of Brighid's large hand and instinctively placed her hand on top of Brighid's just able to hold a few of her fingers. "I would rather help make our new home comfortable, Mistress. It's very important to me that you feel at home. You're energy should be on your drills, your battles, and not anything in our tent." It felt good to say "our", to take possession, even in a small way, of the place they shared.

Brighid smiled at the gesture and Keleth's use of the possessive word. "Well you must suit yourself. But don't feel that you have to for my sake. I didn't think there was anything wrong with our old tent. At least nothing a good cleaning wouldn't help." She purposefully used the same pronoun, echoing Keleth's choice and sentiment. "Help me on with my armor now." As she knelt to make it easier for Keleth, Brighid murmured, "Maybe it was a little small."

Keleth smiled, and chuckled, feeling more free with Brighid and glad for it. Keleth, her limbs sore from moving things in the morning, strained when helping Brighid into full armor. There were more and heavier pieces, and Keleth was soon sweating again. "As I said yesterday, I'm going to put up all your ribbons and medals, with Brennan's help. They don't matter to me, but they seem to matter to others." Keleth thought for a moment about mentioning Marissa's comments, but that seemed more like evening talk. Brighid shouldn't be distracted before drills.
 
Brighid listened to Keleth's plan to decorate their tent, and recalled the admonishment of the Commander from the day before. She supposed that it would be better not to deliberately make trouble for herself and Keleth by being purposefully difficult. And regulations were regulations. If it were only her, Brighid couldn't have cared less about the ribbons. Most of them had been earned doing things to help or save her fellow mares, not for the glory, but because it was a matter of life and death for them. It was just what you did. Nobody thought of the awards they would receive after the battle while in the thick of combat. All that mattered was the comrade who stood next to you, and the one next to them, and so on.

But perhaps Keleth would be happier if she could be proud of who she served instead of being embarrassed. Brighid thought about the new friend Keleth had been eating with. She'd seen the younger girl around the camp, and noticed her not only because of her very young age, but also because of the whispered rumors of what went on between the girl and her Mistress. Whether it was true or not was none of her business, Brighid decided. She knew that Dyanna was the leader of the archer's corps and as such was a valuable member of the battle force. As long as she did her job, mares could be expected to live who might otherwise be slaughtered, especially with this new strategy they were going to be relying on. And after all, what a mare did with her attendant in the privacy of their own pavilion was their own business, right?

Brighid surreptitiously glanced at Keleth as the strong little woman finished fastening the last of her armor. She admired the strength in the girl's short but sturdy body, and caught herself imagining just for a moment what it would be like to feel those small powerful arms thrusting into her during her time. Brighid wondered if Keleth would ever be the sort to provide that kind of service. But even if she would, Brighid couldn't imagine how she could bring herself to ask such a thing. How could Keleth ever know what she needed?

She whickered nervously as she rose, satisfied that she was ready for battle. "Thank you, Keleth, you've done well. I will be grateful for the thorough adjusting you've done to these straps as the afternoon's training wears on. That reminds me, I'll most likely be busy with the drills until dark, so you may spend the afternoon as you wish." Brighid rummaged in an old leather bound trunk that Keleth and Brennan had worked hard to move. It contained some of her more personal belongings, along with those few things she held valuable. Turning back to the small attendant, she tossed a small drawstring pouch that jingled with coin. "Take this, Keleth, for the excellent job you've been doing; a token of my appreciation for putting up with me. Maybe your new friend will show you the outer camp, and you'll find something you'd like there. Enjoy yourself, for I'll need you tonight for bathing again. This afternoon's fighting will surely leave me a sweaty, dusty mess."

Brighid shouldered her great sword without another word and headed for the drilling grounds. She was preoccupied with the new battle plan. If it went right, it could be an effective counter to the newest tactics of the northern barbarians. But it had so much potential for everything to go wrong, and if that happened, Brighid and her cavalry could be cut down by the arrows from their own archers. As she made her way to the drilling grounds, the arrow wound in her rump throbbed painfully, as if a reminder....or a warning.
 
Brennan was sweating by the time she finished tending to her mistress. Dyanna took up her bow, giving Brennan that long knowing look that hinted at what she would be wanting later in the evening, after the camp had fallen into the peace of evening. It gave Brennan a thrill that made her blush. After Dyanna left, Brennan daydreamed about those strong arms holding her and her hand slipped down under her peasant skirt, teasing playfully between her folds. As much as she enjoyed being held in those strong arms and told how good she'd made Dyanna feel, Brennan often wondered what it would be like to have Dyanna touch her in her secret place.

There had been times when she'd touched herself in the middle of the night after a session of servicing Dyanna, but she was pretty sure she'd been careful enough that her mistress hadn't known. Those suppressed moans in the middle of the night had barely been audible, and the slight shiver when her peak hit her hadn't been enough to make Dyanna stir from her sleep. Yet what Brennan really longed for was the touch of another to make her feel so good. Despite being held so tenderly by her mistress on a regular basis, she still felt so lonely sometimes.

It was part of the reason that making friends with Keleth was so important. In Keleth, Brennan hoped she had found a friend and companion she could be close to, and share things with, that she could share with no one else in the camp, not even Mistress Dyanna. The thoughts of Keleth brought Brennan around to wondering what her new friend was up to, and whether she would like to spend the afternoon together. She was still touching herself, but her thoughts had switched to imagining Keleth with Brighid, instead of herself with Mistress Dyanna. It wasn't long before she made herself shiver and quake, nothing but a quiet whimper to signal her body's pleasure.

As she straightened her peasant skirt over her legs and headed out the tent, Brennan was halfway to Keleth's pavilion before she paused to wonder why she had been thinking of Keleth embracing her in a warm hug when she'd made herself cum. The thought was enough to distract her from paying attention, so she didn't notice Marissa's approach, intercepting her just outside Keleth's tent.

Marissa wore her typical sneer reserved for lesser beings than herself, and the younger Brennan obviously fell into that category. In a louder voice than necessary, she jeered, "So, if it isn't the runt's horse rutting friend? Tell me, Brennan, have you shown the runt how to properly fuck a horse yet? You being the expert and all, I'd think you'd give her a clue how to get her sour old nag into a better mood without resorting to wine."

Brennan blushed furiously, offering a glance to the door flap of Keleth's pavilion, then turning back to Marissa, her fists curling in anger at the insults. "You shouldn't talk about Brighid that way! She's twice the warrior your mistress will ever be. And soon enough, she will take her place as captain when your sorry performance of your duties leaves your mistress so stressed out that she can't even fight anymore! You'll see." She barely held herself back, knowing that giving in to her anger would only lead to trouble.

But Marissa held no such convictions, and angrily shoved the younger girl hard, sending her stumbling back through the tent flap just as Keleth emerged to see what was happening. Brennan tripped on the threshold, falling back into Keleth's arms.
 
Keleth, stripped to the waist for a quick wash with cold water, heard the ruckus, then, feeling the stumbling Brennan fall into her, held the young girl up. "Brennan, what's going on?"

"Keleth! It's Marissa again. She shoved me!"

Keleth turned Brennan around and searched her face, forgetting her bare breasts. "What did she say? I want to know everything, my friend."

Brennan blushed as she noticed Keleth's state of undress, and felt a sudden flush at being held so closely in her arms. "She's saying things about me again; asking me if I taught you about.....well, what we talked about before. But she's being a crude bitch about it." Lowering her voice to a whisper, "She called me a horse fucker."

Keleth's face became fierce and she pulled on her linen blouse without adjusting it, her breasts swaying under it as she stepped out of the tent, seeing Marissa standing there with a satisfied smile. "What is going on Marissa? Are you tormenting Brennan for your own pleasure?" Keleth's voice was firm and steady and belied the anger she was feeling.

Marissa sneered. "What do you care, runt? This is between her and me. Tell her to come out here and quit hiding behind your skirts."

Brennan stepped up behind Keleth, her fists clenched, glowering at the older, bigger girl.

"She is my friend, and you pushed her into my Mistress' tent. That's a violation of privacy and I'm sure your mistress would like to know that you are roughhousing and causing mischief when you should be thinking about the well being of your mistress or the camp as a whole." Keleth's voice was still firm, like a mother scolding her child. She reached back, to bring Brennan out next to her, as an equal, not behind.

Marissa grit her teeth, knowing that Keleth was probably right, but unwilling to back down. This new girl had to be brought under her control, or there would be trouble in the future. "Well, my mistress isn't around right now. She's at the drilling ground teaching that nag you serve how to fight properly. And it's not my problem that the horse fucker tripped. She's so clumsy it's pathetic!"

Keleth took a step forwards, but didn't act aggressive, not yet. "So far, Marissa, Brennan has been truthful with me, gentle, and understanding. I trust her. You have been aggressive, demeaning, and untruthful. So when Brennan said you pushed her, I believe her. And what does it matter if she is a horse fucker? Her Mistress needed care, which Brennan provided. It sounds like Brennan is a kind and loving attendant, like you should aspire to be."

Marissa snorted her disgust. "You'll never catch me with my hand up her twat! I don't care what they say, there are just some things we shouldn't have to do. So Runt, tell me. Are you going to do that with your drunken nag? Are you going to make her whinny in the dark, like some kind of stud stallion?" Her tone was sneering and sarcastic, mocking.

Brennan stood trembling at Keleth's side, her body literally vibrating with the pent up anger she was feeling.

Keleth thought for a moment. Would she? The idea was a little daunting, but not unpleasant. There was an attraction to being close, to calming her Mistress. She answered with a voice, firm, which left no room for misunderstanding, "Yes, I would help my Mistress if she asked it of me. If you aren't willing to do everything to help your mistress, what good are you? I guess that makes you the worst kind of attendant. I think when I see the Captain, I will suggest she find someone worthy of her status. I would suggest myself or Brennan, but we are happy with our mistresses."

Marissa fumed silently, her jaw working as if she were chewing nails. It showed in her eyes how angry she was at the insinuation that she was unworthy of being the captain's attendant. But though she was a bully at heart, she wasn't particularly quick witted. She wished that Keleth would just take a swing at her, she knew how to deal with that. But this one stayed calm and spoke with the confidence that Marissa herself didn't feel. She stepped forward, looming over the shorter girl, her voice a growl. "You'd better keep your stupid opinions to yourself if you know what's good for you and your little horse fucking friend there. You won't always be around to save her butt, and I don't forget things easily. You both just better watch your step around me."

Brennan started forward, tense, fist balled up aggressively.

Keleth calmly placed her hand on Brennan's shoulder and guided her back so they were equal again. "We both know what you are, Marissa. If Brennan is hurt in any way, I will know that you did it yourself, or you had it planned. I will speak these things to my Mistress and Mistress Dyanna today, so they are aware of it. You are a poison, Marissa. You are not worthy of being in this camp. Soon enough, some of the centaurs will see you for what you are and they will expel you. I won't worry myself about you; I have my own things to deal with."

Marissa sputtered in her anger, but couldn't find an appropriate response. She ground her teeth and glared, then finally turned on her heels and stalked away.
 
Brennan turned to Keleth, her brow furrowed tightly, anger on her features. She glared after Marissa's retreating form, then looked at Keleth. The expression on her face changed from anger to...something else. Suddenly she was hugging Keleth impulsively, her arms wrapped tightly around the older but smaller girl. Her voice was low and raw with emotion as she murmured, "Thanks."

Keleth smiled and held the small girl tightly, then guided them both into the quiet and safety of the tent. "It's all right, Brennan. I know you wanted to hit her, but you are better than her in everyway. She would have liked to have a go at you. I'm proud of you."

Brennan's face was covered in tears as she stepped back. "She just makes me so mad, Keleth. And I never had the guts to stand up to her; not until you came along. I'm so glad you're my friend. I needed someone to talk with and spend time with other than Mistress. I value my time with her, but it's not the same, you know?" Wiping away her tears, she composed herself. "Hey, I promised you I'd show you the outer camp, if you'd still like to do that. Or if you want to work on your pavilion more, we could just stay here."

"I would love to see the outer camp, Brennan. I was just washing up from this morning, but the rest can wait, especially if we will be walking awhile. It's a bit muddy today." Keleth retrieved her leather halter, putting it over her blouse and tying her hair back with a strip of leather. "I'm so glad that you are my friend too, Brennan. If you need anything, just come by. Mistress Brighid won't mind, unless it's bathing time, and that is in the evening when I'm sure your Mistress needs attention."

"Thank you, I'll remember that. I think I'll like having someone to visit now and then." Brennan stepped behind Keleth and helped gather her hair, holding it together while Keleth tied it in the leather strip. "Yes, usually Mistress Dyanna has need of me in the evenings, so that's not a problem." She blushed slightly, thinking about just what her mistress would be needing later that evening. Remembering the way that Keleth had defended her servicing of her mistress, as she held Keleth's hair, she murmured quietly, "It's really not so bad, you know. It's actually kind of nice in a way."

Keleth breathed and thought for a moment. "I expect that when it's mutual, and the attendant is interested and willing, it can be enjoyable. Brighid won't ask for it, I'm sure of it, and I'm nervous about offering. I know that I will have to when it becomes her time."

Brennan thought a moment. "Well, maybe I can help you with that. I think you'll know when it's time. She'll probably start being a little more physical in how she relates to you. Little things, like touching you more often, finding excuses to brush against you, etc. She might be irritable and cranky, have trouble making decisions, that sort of thing. So when you think it's time, you can approach her during the grooming time, or during a bathing. I did that the first time. She was acting funny, and when I bathed her, she smelled funny 'back there', not like usual. And her....sex....well, it sort of 'winked' at me. So I rubbed it with the sponge, and she seemed to like that."

"I rubbed a little more, and pretty soon she was backing up into me. She almost knocked me off my stool. That's when I just sort of asked her if there was anything I could do to help her feel better."

Keleth turned and listened, drinking in every word, wondering if she saw Brighid's sex winking like that, getting lost in thought. Keleth then refocused on Brennan, slightly taller, younger, but wise despite of it. "I think I saw my Mistress "wink" as you said. She hasn't been more physical, but it's been only two days for me. She is rough, to be sure, but that is a mask, for a gentle spirit. Come, let's talk as you show me the camp. There won't be many about to overhear us."

Brennan smiled and walked along beside Keleth, showing the way past the dining tent and down a sloping path to a large clearing, just screened from the main camp by a thin line of poplar and aspen trees. Across the clearing, a line of centaur cavalry in full armor stood in battle formation. Brennan stopped to watch, fascinated. "Mistress was pretty worried about the new strategy. She said it was dangerous and wasn't sure it would work."

"Mistress Brighid hasn't said anything to me about the strategy. Perhaps she doesn't think I would understand it." Keleth shrugged. "I probably wouldn't. And I don't know if she trusts me yet."

As they watched, across the field a horn sounded, and as one, the line of cavalry surged forth, raw battle screams ringing out from every throat. When the line of cavalry cleared the way, another line emerged from the trees, a line of archers. Brennan pointed to one dark haired centaur in the front of the line that watched the charging cavalry intently. "That's my Dyanna, Keleth! Watch this!"

The archers raised their bows, bent in a deadly arch, and held there for a long moment as Dyanna raised her hand to signal the moment to fire. The cavalry charged down on their imaginary enemy, full tilt. But then they paused and the charge seemed to falter at the last moment. Dyanna gave the signal and the archers released, a hail of arrows arcing through the air with the hissing whistles of their fletching. The arrows flight takes them over the heads of the cavalry, but only because the charge faltered. It was easy to see that had they charged fully, the arrows would be landing among them.

Brennan watched in silent fascination before turning away, a grim look on her face. "I think your mistress is just worried, and I see why now. The Northmen have been using pikes to stop their charges. The archers are going to be used to rain arrows down on the pikemen just before the charge hits their line. But the timing is critical. If they don't fire at the perfect moment, the arrows will fall on our own troops. If the charge falters like that, it will lose it's momentum and fail to break their lines." She took Keleth's hand and continued along the path. "They have a lot to work out. You can bet they will come back worn out tonight. We'll have to be ready."

Keleth hadn't said a word, but her head was swimming and she felt a bit sick. Two days and she hadn't really seen much in terms of real war, but seeing the cavalry and archers practicing for war, was a terrible shock and the usually firm and grounded Keleth felt vulnerable for the first time. She squeezed Brennan's hand all the harder for it. Keleth had seen Brighid in the middle of the line, halting the charge, stopping perfectly short of the line of arrows. "I never thought it would be so… frightening. I have always thought that nothing could scare me, Brennan, but this..."

"I try not to think about it, Keleth. But I admit, it's hard to wait for her return, especially alone. Often the attendants gather in the dining tent, those who don't want to wait alone. It's easier to be with someone, I think, when......you know...... They don't always come back." Brennan put her arm around Keleth's shoulders, offering comfort. "Come on, let's not think about that right now. The outer camp is just down this way."
 
Keleth nodded and push the thoughts of loss out of her mind. She knew that she would mourn for Brighid, if just in a small way. They were building something, even if just a friendship, but there was a spark. As the tents came close, Keleth pulled away a little, but only to take Brennan's hand again.

Brennan flashed a smile, trying to shake off the feeling of dread that the subject always brought out in her. She'd seen attendants who's mistress never came back, or those who came back on the body carts. That was worse in some ways, seeing the carnage that war wrought on their bodies. She took Keleth's hand and led her first to the tent bazaar of the clothing merchant. Ducking inside the large tent, the two girls were confronted with row upon row of colorful silks and linens of all sorts. Past that were some clothing items, cloaks, simple dresses, shawls, etc. "Usually they make what you want by custom order, but I could never afford that. I usually get the ones on the racks, and add a stitch or two to help them fit better."

Keleth looked around in wonder at all the different colors and became aware she had the sack of coins that Brighid had given her. She opened it up, but having never counted money before, she was unsure how much it was. "Brennan, could you help me figure out how much I have here?" She turned and covertly showed the open coin purse to Brennan.

Brennan peeked inside the small pouch and her eyes widened as if they would pop from her head. "Keleth, where did you get this? This is...." She lowered her voice conspiratorially. "This is gold, Keleth!"

Keleth made a quieting gesture, as she knew a merchant was close by. "Mistress Brighid gave it to me today before she left for the drills, she said it was for doing a good job the last two days. Do you not get gold much?"

Brennan looked at her friend in disbelief. "It must be a mistake. Sometimes they give copper pennies, or even silver crowns if they really like you, but gold is almost unheard of! Maybe she didn't realize what she gave you. Or maybe she just doesn't care about money. It's possible I suppose." She took a breath and pulled Keleth off to a secluded part of the tent behind some rows of material. "Okay, so one gold coin like you have in there is the same as twenty silver coins. And each silver coin is the same as ten copper pennies. Most things are priced in either silver or copper here, but some of the nicer things are priced in gold. Not too many people can afford them though. If you're sure that your mistress meant for you to have that, then you won't lack for money. There must be a dozen gold coins in there, at least. It's more than I can count on my fingers I know that much."

Keleth counted and there were 16 gold coins in total, and she breathed out. She took out one gold coin and placed the rest of the pouch safely in her leather halter so it wouldn't jingle. "If it's as much as you say, then I shouldn't be seen with it, not yet. It's past my station. We will use this to buy some fabric and use the change to buy other things. Let me buy you something as a thank you for being so kind to me. Pick anything out, Brennan."

Brennan smiled. "That's very kind of you, Keleth. I've been wanting a new dress. If you're sure, that is." She began to browse through the fabrics, admiring the colors and textures. Finally she chose a deep burgundy dress with white linen trim scalloped on the edges to resemble lace. It was simple in design and material, and not very expensive, but it was decent quality and nicer than her current outfit. "I'd love this one, Keleth. Do you think it would look good on me?"

Keleth stepped back, and a smile, very warm and genuine grew on her face, something that was very unusual for her, and it felt a little strange. "I would love to see you in it, Brennan, and I think your Mistress would too." Keleth turned and looked through the dresses and found one that was a rich, dark green, long sleeves and long skirt, but with a lower neckline. It was a corset style dress and would really show off Keleth's cleavage. "What do you think of this?"

Brennan's eyes grew wide, and she blushed slightly, glancing quickly up at Keleth's face. "It's beautiful, Keleth. I don't think I could ever fill it out, but you...it would really look good on you." She grinned. "It would definitely get attention!"

Keleth nodded with another true smile, knowing she had found a true friend, and gathered both dresses and walking up to the merchant, a taller man, to pay for them.

After a brief customary haggling process, the price for the two dresses was settled at 4 silver coins. The merchant returned 16 silver coins in change for the one gold coin that Keleth had out. The bulk of the 16 silver coins however was too much for the little pouch to hold along with it's current amount. Brennan led Keleth to a leatherworker's tent where there were all sorts of leather goods, pouches, satchels, bags, and all sorts of goods, both human and equine.

Keleth looked through the pouches and found one in dark brown leather, with a thin shoulder strap, and the form of a centaur branded in the front. "I think this will do. Pick out something for yourself too, Brennan."

Brennan smiled happily, unable to believe the generosity of her new friend. Browsing through the selection, she found a small belt to cinch her new dress, black leather with silver colored conchos decorating the length. "Keleth, thank you so much! I don't know what to say."

Keleth just smiled and paid for both the pouch and the leather belt, which came to 2 silver pieces and 10 pennies. Placing the coins in her new purse, and carrying the dresses in a bound linen package, they walked along to find a food vendor with wonderful smells coming from it. "Oh, goodness, I'm hungry, perhaps we should stop for a quick snack. I'm unfamiliar with the food from these parts."

Brennan gushed. "Oh I know this vendor. Their fruit pastries are so good! They have one made from all sorts of woodland berries of the area. Or if a meat pie is more to your liking, they also have a wonderful pie made from mutton."

Hand in hand, Keleth lead them into the vendor's tent, purchasing two of the berry pastries. "While I like meat every so often, I'm much happier with bread, fruit and cheese." Keleth took a few small bites and groaned in appreciation of delicacy.

Brennan smiled, waiting to enjoy her pastry to see Keleth's reaction. Clapping her shoulder in camaraderie, she attacked her pie with gusto. "Is there something you need, Keleth? I know when I first became an attendant, the blankets they gave me from the quartermaster were so thin and scratchy. One of the first things I saved up for was new blankets. How is your sleeping pad? As we were moving your stuff I noticed you got a new sleeping pad. It looked pretty good, well stuffed."

"It's very comfortable and the blanket is just fine for me. I'm not really sure what I need yet, but I will think on it now that I know the shops are here." Keleth ate slowly, wanting to savor the pastry and also keep energy for the bath later. On the way back, she planned to get the evening meal so it was ready for Brighid's return. She found that she was very much looking forwards to being with her Mistress again, and giving her a thorough bath. When finished with the pastry, knowing there was still time left before the evening meal, Keleth stood up. "Brennan, perhaps we could walk back slowly, so we can talk about more personal matters."

Brennan nodded, just finishing her pastry. "We could go get our buckets and fetch some water. I doubt anyone else would be at the stream at this time of day. What would you like to talk about?"

Keleth let Brennan lead the way back, thinking for a moment. "I guess… this is hard for me, since I'm ignorant, but how, if the time comes, should I help… calm....my Mistress? I want to understand as much as I can since I know she will be reluctant."

Brennan glanced over at her friend, unsure of where to start, and finally deciding to open up completely. "Do you mean how to do it, or how to get her to want it?"

Keleth paused and put her hand against a tall oak tree, adjusting the package under her arm. "Well, both I suppose, and I know that she will be different than Dyanna. I guess how to do it first. I think I might have to find my own way to get her to want it."

Brennan blushed slightly, then cleared her throat nervously. "Well, it's important for their comfort to make sure they are absolutely ready. They provide their own natural lubrication if they are ready, but it could be uncomfortable or even hurt them if they're not."

Keleth resumed walking, but noticed the blush and the subtle excitement in Brennan's voice. "I think I understand that, just like you and I would do that for a man, if we…" Keleth didn't finish the sentence, but noticed how cold her voice sounded.

"Yeah, it's kind of like that. Fortunately, the same soap we use to bathe them provides a pretty slippery lubrication. So what I usually do is use the sponge on her, washing and rubbing her gently until she starts to show the signs that she's ready. She sort of....'opens', I guess. It's kind of hard to explain until you've seen it. Anyhow, then its important to get your hand and arm very slippery. You want to start slowly, just use your fingers at first."

"You'll know if she's willing by then. She'll either close up tight or she'll begin to relax. Now if she relaxes, then you can use a little more of your hand, but go slow. On the other hand, if she squeezes your fingers tightly, she might be nervous. You'll have to do something to relax her more."

Keleth listened to everything without responding, wondering what she could use to calm Brighid. The one thing she knew was stroking the transition between skin and horsehair, but that would be impossible to do from the other side. "I still have to learn more about her for that part. She's... proud and quiet." Keleth sighed as they approached the camp again. "I'll fetch my bucket. Here is your dress and belt. If you see Marissa, let me know. I'll meet you by the stream."
 
Brennan nodded and headed for her tent, looking around for Marissa carefully. The coast was clear so she stashed away her new belongings and fetched a couple buckets on her shoulder yoke and headed for the stream.

Keleth placed her new dress by her sleeping mat, wondering when she might wear it, perhaps for Brighid, perhaps for Brennan, and then found the yoke and two smaller buckets, exiting the tent and walking down towards the stream.

Waiting along the path, Brennan smiled when she heard Keleth approaching. She stepped out into the path and matched her friend's pace. "Keleth, can I ask you something?"

"Brennan, for the kindness you have shown me, you can ask me anything you wish." Keleth set down the yoke and started to fill the first bucket.

"Have you ever....I mean, have you ever been with someone, intimately?"

Keleth paused from filling her bucket and set it down next to her, squatting by the stream and looking at the water as is flowed briskly to the west. "No, Brennan, I've never been with someone intimately. I have explored…on my own, but not much even then."

Brennan continued in a dreamy voice, "Sometimes when I'm with Mistress Dyanna, and she holds me afterwards in her strong arms, it feels so good, you know. But sometimes it feels like there should be something more. I feel sometimes like I wish she would do more than hold me. Sometimes I feel so lonely..... Well, I wish I had anyone to.....you know. Do you ever feel that way?"

Keleth hadn't moved, for the words that Brennan spoke had touched something in her, and just like when thinking about her Mistress, emotions started to creep into her mind, much more than she was used to. "Sometimes, when I'm awake at night at can't sleep, I wish someone would be there to hold me and comfort me. My mother never..." Keleth broke off. "I've never loved anyone, Brennan. I just don't imagine finding someone who… I mean, I'll be here two years and..."

Brennan knelt down to put her arm around Keleth, offering silent comfort. Softly she said, "Two years isn't really so long, Keleth. You're young and pretty. Someone would find you very attractive." She lapsed into silent reflection, watching the water flow by. She busied herself with filling one of her buckets. Then, impulsively, she blurted out, "It's too bad our mistresses each have their own pavilions. It sounds like we both need someone to hold us in the night."

Keleth thought about that comment for a moment, then whispered quietly, "I think, one night, we could ask our Mistresses if we could hold each other, perhaps in your tent or ours. I think I would like that, Brennan. I know my first duty is to my Mistress, just like yours is, but perhaps… one night..."

Brennan froze as her blush reached her ears, coloring the back of her neck and her cheeks a bright pink. Turning slowly to face Keleth, she spoke softly, "Y-you mean that? We...you and me....could....hold each other?"

Keleth turned with the same smile she had on earlier, and simply nodded, a gentle flush filling her face, changing the usually pale skin into something warmer, deeper. Then in slight embarrassment, she filled her second bucket. "We should… ah… get back to get the evening meal."

Brennan nodded quickly, blushing as she filled her other bucket and shouldered the yoke. She was halfway back to the camp before whispering, "I'd like that, Keleth, very much, I think." She risked a sideways glance at her friend, smiling shyly.

Just as they were to part ways, Keleth looked back at Brennan and smiled, still flushed. "So would I, Brennan. Talk to your mistress to see what she says. I will only do it if Mistress Brighid allows."

"I will, Keleth. And if I don't see you again tonight, thank you for the lovely dress and belt. If you still want me to help you with your mistress' decorations, I'll be glad to."

Keleth nodded and quickly put the water by the fire to warm, then rubbing her shoulder muscles walked over to the mess tent to get her the evening meal for her and Mistress Brighid.
 
((((I'm taking a pause to offer my thanks for everyone who has been reading along this far. I know this has been a slow builder, with not much more than alluding to or talking about the sexual nature of the character's relationships. But that is about to change with the next few posts, which I intend to begin putting up tomorrow morning. If you've been enjoying our story so far, my partner and I would love to hear from you. There is much more of the story to come, so please keep enjoying it with us.)))))
 
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The sun hung low in the sky by the time Brighid drug herself back to the new pavilion, bone weary and sore, dusty and sticky with lathered sweat. Her armor rubbed along her arrow wound, making it throb with pain. She limped slightly from the misstep in a gopher hole during one of the practice charges. She lifted the door flap with a tired sigh, and stumbled inside. Glancing around, she noted the tray with the evening meal, and her petite attendant standing by with water already heating by the fire. A grateful smile turned the corners of her mouth upwards as she leaned her great sword against the rack and began to unfasten the buckles on her armor that she could reach. "Keleth. I trust you passed a pleasant afternoon."

"I did Mistress. I saw you during the drill on the battlefield." Keleth stopped suddenly, the bite of fear coming back, but then hurried forwards, just in blouse and loose skirts, standing on the stool to help her Mistress out of her armor. "The water is already warm, so we can begin as soon as the meal is over. I spent the afternoon with Brennan, and we are already good friends. She was being bullied by one of the other attendants, but I stood up for her."

"Let me guess; that prissy little blonde that belongs to the captain. She's usually at the heart of trouble around camp." Brighid knelt slowly, obviously stiff from the day's exertions. Her eyes followed Keleth as she went about helping remove the armor. Quietly, she said, "You've been to the stream I see. Not alone I hope."

"No, Mistress. I went with Brennan. I know that neither of us are a match for… Well, but it was daylight, and all the attention was on the drilling." Keleth set the armor away, starting to sweat, but brought over the heavy tray. "Please eat Mistress. I will tend to your wound." Keleth went around with water and a fresh cloth and soap, and cleaned the wound. It was just sore and smarting now, not even needing a bandage.

Brighid whickered low in her throat as the tender ministrations soothed her throbbing wound. It was more the overuse of the injured muscle than the healing wound itself that bothered her. She sighed as she took a long pull from the carafe, not surprised to find only cold spring water. Resigned, she started in on her bowl of greens and fruit. After a couple bites, she realized just how famished she was, and devoured the food with obvious relish. By the time Keleth had finished, the bowl was empty. "You spent the afternoon with your new friend, you said? She seems like a good one, although younger than usual. Not that I'm a good judge of your ages I suppose. But I'm glad that you have a friend, Keleth."

Keleth took away the empty bowl, and looked at her own bowl of vegetable stew and didn't think much of it. "She is younger than me, but strong and wise for her age." Keleth stood at Brighid's side, on the stool and started to remove the braids. "Mistress, I know you would like wine, but I think it would be best with this new strategy that you should stick with water for now. I don't want to make you angry, just have you at your best." Keleth took one of the buckets of warm water, and started to quickly wash the long beautiful mane.

Brighid snorted her disdain at the mention of the new strategy. "Well that's a fine thought, Keleth, but the new strategy is flawed. Being at my best or at my worst will make little difference if I end up with an arrow in my back from our own archers." Noticing the sweat already beginning to trickle down Keleth's temples, she spoke softly, "Keleth, if you would be more comfortable with out those heavy coverings, it's alright you know. I really don't see how your kind manages with only two legs, but your odd form doesn't bother me to see it. There are just the two of us here now; you should be comfortable."

Keleth stopped with her hands covered in suds, a little taken aback, but with the tent warm, and the warm, almost hot body of Brighid next to her, she quickly shucked her skirt and blouse, completely nude and returned to her wash. Soon the hair was rinsed, dried and re-braided. Keleth paused from the washing again to stroke the transition in front of Brighid, hoping the feeling would be better than any amount of wine.

Brighid whickered low in her throat at the now familiar soothing touch, letting her eyes close and the trials of the day leave her mind. "That feels good when you do that. I'm glad you don't feel like you're afraid to touch me. Cassandra wouldn't......" She fell silent as thoughts of her former attendant returned to her, and turned her head away so that the emotions on her face could not betray her. Impulsively Brighid reached out to take Keleth's arm gently in her strong hand, a light grasp. "Don't forget to save some of that water for yourself."

Keleth didn't tense at the sudden touch, though her insides clenched. "I enjoy touching you, Mistress, and there will be plenty of water for my own bath. I don't want you to go to sleep smelling dirty, sweaty human." Keleth laughed softly, spending another few moments, stroking that area, then starting the full bath, moving around slowly and carefully. This time, she went from shoulder to back leg on each side before standing directly behind Brighid.

The soothing feeling of the warm water and stroking of her body lulled Brighid into a peaceful relaxed state. Her thoughts were more on her new attendant than on the difficulties of the battle plan. As her lathered sweat and dirt was washed away, it seemed as though the capably stroking, efficient little hands of the girl stripped away the cares that troubled her in layers, just like the dirt and sweat. Her hide twitched and quivered with the calming touch on her body. When at last Keleth paused directly behind her, Brighid cast a look over her shoulder, her lids lowered in relaxation, but in a way that cast her eyes in a sultry glance at the human girl behind her. The look was meant to be one that asked the unspoken question of 'why are you hesitating?', but the lowered lids gave a different effect.

Keleth saw the look and wondered if that was a look that came along with "the time" but wasn't sure. Brennan hadn't said anything like that. Keleth smiled, a little shyly, but then started to wash around Brighid's sex, paying close attention, searching for signs, and wondering if Brighid was close to sleep.
 
Keleth saw the relaxed, almost aroused look in Brighid's eyes and knew instantly that it was okay to touch and perhaps explore a little. Feeling that she did have permission, Keleth's soapy fingers moved gently over the curves that she found, the transition from horsehair to female sex. Brighid's sex was slippery, perhaps partly due to the soap and some tree oil in the soap. The scent seemed to grow - soap, sweat, and sex - into a heady mixture that Keleth knew right away that she liked. Her eyes went back to Brighid's face, still turned towards her with the same veiled lids, the same relaxed half-smile.

Keleth let her fingers explore a little further into the cleft, into yielding flesh. As naked as she was, Keleth felt slightly shy being so intimate with someone, even her Mistress, whom she had already bathed several times. The mocking words of Marissa battled the excited words of Brennan on the subject of this situation, and Keleth knew this wasn't a forbidden act. It was right and natural for an attendant to do with her Mistress. This was care, if not an obvious sort.

Keleth didn't feel any natural yielding to her fingers, or of Brighid's body asking for more, as if it were her time. However, Brighid was obviously enjoying this gentle touch, and Keleth didn't plan on stopping. She began a slow massage of Brighid's entrance, thinking to herself that Brighid would be more willing when Keleth would have to do more. The silence grew very long, and didn't demand to be broken, but Keleth decided to speak anyway, wanting to be honest and open with Brighid.

"Mistress, I really like touching you like this. It lets me know that you trust me, and that is very important. I like how you feel, in front at your transition, but also here. If you like it too, just ask me for when you wish it. I will be happy to oblige."

Keleth didn't want to broach the subject of Brighid going into her time; not now. There would be another time. Keleth withdrew her hand, and began to rinse Brighid's body, which took quite a while. Feeling tired and sweaty, Keleth moved over to the fire, standing before it for her own wash. She wasn't shy this time. She gazed into Brighid's eyes as the mare watched, slowly cleansing herself, not showing off, but not hiding.

*************

Brighid watched Keleth through languid eyes to see what the girl would do. The bath so far had relaxed away the cares of the day and the stress of the mock battles of the afternoon. Brighid had begun to feel that she'd been very lucky to have someone like Keleth assigned to her. The small human was a rare gem as attendants went. Many seemed very reluctant to touch a mare in any way other than that required in their duties. But the way that Keleth had of stroking the short hair of the transition between her humanoid and equine parts soothed Brighid beyond measure. She'd never experienced a feeling quite like it; so calming and yet, pleasurable in a way she couldn't really describe. There was something intimate about it that was unlike any way that she had ever been touched before.

Oh sure, Brighid had mated once, but never foaled. Her stallion had been killed in the early days of the war, but they hadn't been close, not like some pairs who mated for life. The sort of mating Brighid had experienced wasn't very intimate, just perfunctory, more about relieving needs than any real bonding.

But the way Keleth touched and stroked her was as if they shared something between them. And Brighid was beginning to feel a measure of affection for the human girl. Now Keleth paused just behind her, and Brighid wondered if the young attendant would be hesitant to touch her 'back there'. Of course it was purely a matter of being thorough in her bathing, wasn't it? Surely Keleth, with her pride in how she fulfilled her duties, would do what was necessary.

Brighid waited, seemingly patient, but inside she was nearly quivering with anticipation. She would never let Keleth know how much she hoped the girl would touch and gently wash her nethers, but secretly, their previous conversation about how some attendants took care of their mistress' needs during the time of their mating urges had been more than a small distraction to Brighid. She had found herself thinking of how it would feel, and openly wondering whether Keleth would be willing to perform that duty.

And then she felt it.

Keleth's fingers were gently massaging and exploring Brighid's thick nether lips and the opening to her sex, under the guise of washing her there, at first. But as the feeling continued, it became obvious that it was more than just a part of the bath. Without saying anything, Brighid lifted her tail, similar to how she would've if she needed to evacuate her bowels, but canted to one side, out of the way, as if for mating.

Keleth's gentle fingers massaged Brighid's opening slowly but insistently, a very pleasurable feeling, Brighid thought. She was about to comment that Keleth was being exceptionally thorough in her bathing tonight, but before she could, Keleth spoke in that soothing steady tone.

"Mistress, I really like touching you like this. It lets me know that you trust me, and that is very important. I like how you feel, in front at your transition, but also here. If you like it too, just ask me for when you wish it. I will be happy to oblige."

Oh how Brighid wanted to tell her that she liked how it felt too! She wanted to let the girl know that she wanted more than just that 'thorough washing'. She wanted to know if Keleth would do more, would even do 'that' when her time came upon her. Brighid wanted all those things, but she had no words to ask. Her normal reclusive shyness choked the words in her throat. And in the next moment, Keleth withdrew her hand, moving on to rinse Brighid's body.

The water, though it had not grown tepid, but by comparison to the heat of that moment, provided a cooling off effect. It helped Brighid's senses return to her normal reserved, tightly controlled state. For the time it took Keleth to finish bathing her, Brighid wondered at the heated flush that had crept upon her. Was her time coming soon? Was it's effects already beginning to be felt?
 
Brighid found herself gazing idly at Keleth as the girl bathed herself by the fire, her thoughts finally coming back to the present. The warm light of the fire played off the toned grace of the young human's body, accentuating her unusual symmetry in a complimentary way that Brighid admired. Keleth really was beautiful in her own peculiar way, Brighid thought. It just takes some getting used to her odd body form, the centaur mused.

Impulsively, she lumbered to her feet, turning around to get a better view before settling back down, her legs curled under her. Keleth didn't seem to be embarrassed or concerned that Brighid watched her bathing, so Brighid used the opportunity to openly study the little human's anatomy. Her lidded gaze lingered over the curves of the young woman, and Brighid noted something about Keleth's body that she'd not noticed the night before. Whether because she'd been drinking, or just because she hadn't been attentive, she wasn't sure. Her interest overcame her manners and she surged forward, taking Keleth by her arm suddenly and pulling her closer, turning her around so that Brighid could examine more closely that area that had piqued her interest.

Her calloused hands, strong from wielding sword and spear, held Keleth's upper arm in a grip as strong as a vise, yet not roughly. Still there was no escaping it. With her other hand, she reached towards the girl's loins, touching with almost childlike wonder at what she saw there. The gentle touch of her fingers on the wispy pubic covering was almost reverent, worshipful. She stroked lightly, her touch gliding along the skin, then slipping through the pubic hair, only lightly growing back from Keleth's last grooming. Brighid looked up to meet the surprised gaze of her attendant, and spoke with an almost hushed wonder, "Keleth, I didn't realize you have your own transition area. Does it feel as good to you when I touch you there?"
 
Keleth was quite surprised by the sudden grip on her arm, and gasped, but didn't draw away from Brighid. "Yes, I... like being touched there, but please, let me get comfortable, Mistress." Keleth reached across, gasping again from the touches, and pulled slightly on Brighid's gripping fingers.

Brighid's brow furrowed as she realized her mistake, and let go of Keleth's arm. "Sorry." she murmured. "Did I hurt you? I didn't mean to do that."

Keleth quickly grasped one of Brighid's large fingers and drew them back, to her breast this time. "You didn't hurt me, Mistress. I was a little surprised. I would be very glad to let you touch me, and you can use both hands. I prefer a gentle touch, at least to start. Perhaps I could lay down before you."

The calloused fingers touched Keleth's skin incredibly gently, brushing lightly down over the swell of her breast. Brighid's thumb moved over the bud of Keleth's nipple, and she glanced upwards to meet Keleth's eyes, trying to gauge her reaction. Brighid's other hand moved over to rest on Keleth's hip, allowing just the tip of her thumb to reach across to stroke lightly at Keleth's mound. "Is this right? This is how you do it? I'm not sure how your kind feels about being touched, Keleth. You'll have to let me know if I'm making another mistake. Is lying down the customary thing to do?"

Keleth's breathing became deep and almost hoarse, her body rapidly become excited by the contrast of gentle touches with rough fingers. "Yes… oh… Mistress… you are very good. I like... my breasts… touched... yes… and...my mound… OH!" Keleth realized that Brighid had touched her pearl of flesh through her short pubic hair. Keleth grabbed the finger there and guided it back to that wonderful spot. "I'm very sensitive there, but I love the touch." Keleth's eyes rose to meet her Mistress'.

Brighid smiled at the realization that she'd done something Keleth liked, and when the young woman guided her fingertips back to the right spot, she thought she could just feel a slightly raised bit of soft flesh there. Curious to know more, she focused her attention to exploring the contours of the twin outer folds of flesh, realizing that the sensitive spot seemed to lie in the slight valley between them. Her warrior's touch was not as skilled or practiced at touching there, but she was very gentle. Bringing her fingers into use as well, she gently eased the outer folds apart with her thumbs and traced her forefinger along the warm inner valley, listening carefully to Keleth's breathing and sounds to see how she reacted.

Keleth's legs shook and she had to fall back to the floor of the tent, no where near her soft sleeping mat. Her body started to shake and her limbs twitched with the steady pressure on her cleft, which was very slick and pungent. "Oh… Mistress... I've never had anyone do this before… you are the first." As Keleth looked at her Mistress, she saw curiosity and pleasure, and was glad of both.

Brighid whickered low in her throat, a sound associated with the pleasure she felt when Keleth stroked along her transition area, or bathed under her tail. But this time it was not either of those things that brought the sound, but Keleth's reaction to her touches. Her large brown eyes seemed lit within by a glint of.....something. Interest? Arousal? Satisfaction at the reaction she'd caused? Brighid knelt on her forelegs, following Keleth down to the floor of the tent, still reaching for her, capturing one of her slender ankles in one hand, and eagerly resuming her explorations of the young woman's cleft with the other, fingertips lightly tracing along Keleth's inner lips. Brighid seemed to sense the heat and wetness coming more from one particular spot, and she gently pressed her finger there.

Keleth moaned loudly and her hips lifted, heels braced on the floor as Brighid press her rough finger into her center, penetrating slowly. Her finger seemed bigger now that it was entering her. Keleth felt compelled to speak, to guide, because she wanted Brighid to learn, so that this wouldn't be a single occurrence. "Yes, just...like that….go slowly Mistress, your fingers are bigger than mine. I'm used to my own."

"You do this to yourself? You like this then?" Brighid pushed her fingertip in a little more until she felt Keleth's opening begin to yield for her. As soon as her fingertip entered partway, she withdrew, bringing the wetness to her sensitive nose and taking in the scent of Keleth's arousal.

"I have done it a few times, when I felt excited and craved pleasure. It's been some time since I have done it." Keleth was panting, and regretted Brighid pulling her finger away. "I didn't have any time or privacy during my training."

A sudden understanding dawned on Brighid's face, and she looked down at Keleth with a peculiar expression. "This is where the males of your kind breed you, isn't it, Keleth. I understand now. Do you feel pleasure from this because it is your time, girl? Will it help you if I continue....like the way that some attendants....serve their mistress' needs?" Brighid blushed deeply as she spoke the last words, realizing that she'd just explained plainly that which they'd only hinted at before.

Keleth's eyes widened, and her brain struggled to get through thoughts that were very important during this time, being so vulnerable under her Mistress. "I…yes...a male would put his… manhood in me there….but I don't have a time…like you." Keleth reached down to pause Brighid's hand. "I can be touched most of the time. Once every moon cycle I will bleed, as all human females do. That is how we are different. I'm not fertile during that time. In fact, I'm fertile only a few days in my cycle." It seemed a strange time to talk about such things, but Brighid needed to understand.

"It hurts you, this bleeding time? That is why you cannot be touched then? I don't detect the scent of any blood now though. Do you want me to keep touching you, Keleth? Will it relieve your needs?" Brighid stilled her finger from pressing inward again, instead just stroking her fingertips lightly through the short pubic covering.

"I'm not bleeding now. I like how this feels, love it. Please don't stop. I will get a release....but be careful…. I know that on a woman's wedding night, when the male puts his manhood in, he makes her bleed….some barrier broken." Keleth was losing her train of thought again.

Brighid nodded and found the warm wetness again with her finger, pushing inward with surprising gentleness. She soon felt the barrier that Keleth spoke of, a bit of skin it seemed just inside the folds of Keleth's flesh. She was careful not to push against it too hard. Intrigued by the new experience with this little human woman, Brighid blurted out her thoughts before realizing what she was saying, "You're so small, Keleth! Were you to service my need during my time, you would have to use much more than one fingertip!"

Keleth laughed in the midst of her pleasure, amazed that her mistress was opening up like this, and very glad of it. Her body began to tremble more as her pleasure increased and she knew the release would hit her soon.

Brighid realized what she'd just said, too late, and blushed so deeply it colored even her darkly tanned skin. Brighid pulled her hand away abruptly, glancing down at Keleth, then looking away quickly. She seemed not to know where to look. "I should not have mentioned that. It is not a thing that is spoken of. It's not even something that is required of an attendant." Her voice was low, shy almost.
 
Keleth reached out and grabbed Brighid's large hand, but didn't guide it back to her sex, but rather her stomach, which Brighid's hand mostly covered. "I'm glad you said it, Mistress. Brennan told me about that and I do want to help you during your time. That's why I explored a little today; to show that I want to help you in any way that I can." The lack of sexual contact made Keleth frantic with lust, but she put it aside for her Mistress.

"You would..... You know about that? And you don't think it is wrong to have such a thing between a mistress and an attendant?" Brighid's breath seemed to catch in her throat for a minute. "You....you would even do that.....if I needed you to? For me?" As she spoke, Brighid's hand moved in small circular motions over Keleth's small tummy, those roughened fingertips seeming to enjoy the simple act of touching Keleth's vulnerable skin.

Keleth groaned deeply. She never had a touch like this before, but loved it instantly. It was more calming and comforting than sexual, almost motherly, but her hands covered Brighid's hand and caressed. "Mistress, it isn't because I'm your attendant that I want to help you during your time. I care about you, even after only two days. You are strong and brave, and also vulnerable. I want to help you in every way, taboo or not."

Brighid returned her gaze to the earnest look in Keleth's eyes, and smiled, an expression so tender and caring, betraying the growing affection she was developing for the little human, even if she was reluctant to say it in words. Brighid leaned over Keleth's body, propping her humanoid torso on one hand while the other continued to trace little circles around Keleth's tummy. "I'm glad you were assigned to me, Keleth. You're a fine woman." She didn't say 'keeper' or even 'attendant'. It seemed an unusual glimpse of her true feelings, rather than the front she usually maintained.

Keleth's eyes widened, understanding that she had earned the respect and trust of a beautiful, brave centaur mare. With Brighid's hand pressed to her tummy, Keleth started to convulse, brought to the edge not by touch, but my emotion.

Something about the sight of Keleth lying under her, naked and vulnerable, touched something in Brighid, and she allowed her fingertips to stray in a widening circle, brushing softly through the pubic thatch again, and down along that warm cleft. Once more she detected the little shaft of flesh laying nestled between the thicker furrows of flesh, and traced her finger along it slowly, sussing out it's shape and size. She felt the stiff little button at the end of it, and rolled it under her exploring finger.

Already at the height of her pleasure, Keleth was driven beyond it, screaming out into the tent, writhing under Brighid, her sex leaking copiously around Brighid's finger. "Oh Mistress!"

Brighid hesitated, wondering if she'd been too rough and broken something. The sudden flood of wetness could have been blood, by the feel of it. And in the dim light of the banked fire that had heated their bathing water, it was hard to tell. But Brighid's sensitive nose detected no coppery tang of blood smell, a scent the warrior was well familiar with. So despite the hesitant pause, she didn't pull her hand away. Instead, she gently pushed her fingertip into the source of the wetness, checking to see if the little barrier was still there. Once satisfied that it was intact, she surmised that it must have been what Keleth had said would be her release. Brighid smiled and placed her wide palm over Keleth's mound, covering the area entirely and just holding Keleth in place until her writhing subsided and her breathing returned to normal. "Are you well, Keleth? All is okay?"

Keleth's eyes fluttered, then closed as her breathing steadied and her hands slid up and down Brighid's forearm. Without opening her eyes, she whispered huskily, "Yes, Mistress, that was the most amazing release; the best I've ever had! Thank you so much." Her eyes slowly opened, the firelight flickering over Brighid's torso. "I will have to wash again, I think. I'm sure that I must smell now."

"Not unpleasantly. In fact...." Brighid breathed in deeply. "....I rather like your scent." Brighid's attention wandered downward to Keleth's lower body, especially her legs. Curious for some time now, and having only had the chance to see them from across the tent when Keleth bathed, Brighid decided to take advantage of the chance to explore the odd anatomy of the human girl. She slid her hand down along the insides of Keleth's thighs, gently squeezing the muscle there and exploring the shape and feel of her leg. Her head cocked slightly to one side with her fascination, looking a little like a dog that has heard a strange noise.

Keleth blushed at Brighid's compliment, then watched in awe as her Mistress explored her legs, making her muscles twitch with pressure. "I didn't realize that you haven't been this close to a human girl before. My legs must seem very strange. Please explore as much as you wish. I don't mind."
 
Brighid cast a smile in Keleth's direction, but continued satisfying her curiosity without comment. Her brow knit in careful study when she lifted Keleth's leg in the air and began examining her ankle and foot in great detail. Her fingers touched each toe in turn, lingering over the nail bed, wondering if it could be what substituted for a hoof. Her strong finger traced along the sole of Keleth's foot, tickling slightly. Brighid seemed especially fascinated at how soft the skin on the top of Keleth's foot was, just behind the toes. She stroked and petted that part repeatedly, holding Keleth's leg in the air.

Keleth giggled when she was tickled, but otherwise she stayed quiet, seeing that Brighid was in a sort of trance of concentration, learning. Keleth wondered if Brighid was using the same senses and when she prepared for battle. After a few moments, Keleth began to shiver, as they were a little away from the fire.

Noticing the shiver brought Brighid out of her reverie, and she realized the temperature was dropping with the coming of night. She shifted her body, scooting to the edge of Keleth's sleeping pad on the side away from the fire, and settled down, lying with her legs folded under her. "Keleth, put some wood on the fire, then come and we'll sleep. When the coals die down, you can borrow warmth from me. I haven't been drinking, as you wished. So I will not be a danger to rolling over on you in the night." Brighid's voice was subdued, as if a bit ashamed that she had to admit it had ever been a hazard. She also seemed shy about suggesting that Keleth lie near enough to her to borrow her heat. It seemed to be a cover for a different motive.

Keleth stood and her legs wobbled, and she stroked her arms as she went towards the pile of firewood. She could have put something over herself, but she didn't think of covering up. After several logs were placed on the fire, she took a wet cloth, cold, and washed the dirt from her hands. She started to wash her sex, but she paused, looking at Brighid, and stopped. She returned to Brighid's side, sliding under her blanket, and turned to face Brighid. Her hand reached up so she should stroke Brighid's transition.

A smile slowly spread over the mare's fire lit features at the soothing feel of the soft stroking. Brighid whickered quietly, and slowly put a strong arm around Keleth's body, half embracing, half cradling her close. At first the gesture seemed unsure, hesitant. But when no protest came from her attendant, Brighid relaxed more, letting her arm rest a little easier as she stared into the flames, contented and seemingly at peace.

Deep in her awareness Keleth felt like a child in her mother's arm, but her greater understand was one of protecting and warmth. She received more heat from Brighid than the fire, though the fire was growing again. "Mistress, can you tell me when your time might come? I still sense some hesitance from you, and I want to be able to calmly help you when the time comes."
 
Brighid thought silently for a time. They had broken new ground in their budding relationship tonight as mistress and attendant, but there also seemed to be something more developing, she realized. She began to understand that she'd been thinking of Keleth as more than an obligatory caretaker, but as someone she liked to have around and even be with. For Brighid, this was a new feeling. And suddenly she was surprised to realize that she'd not thought about Cassandra very much all day. She smiled at that realization, not because she felt better about what had happened, but at least she'd not tortured herself over it. Her thoughts returned to Keleth's question. "Keleth, are you sure you understand what you are asking?" she asked quietly. "Do you know what you will have to do? You said your friend Brennan told you about it, but do you really know what she meant?"

Keleth looked into the brown eyes and nodded. "She didn't tell me everything, but at least said I would need at least… my arm." Keleth flushed and giggled softly at the thought, hoping that Brighid didn't take it as an insult. "It will be an effort, but it is your well being… and pleasure, that matters to me. I like your scent very much. I like the way you feel. It will be my pleasure to pleasure you. It isn't work to me."

Brighid nodded, tightening her arm around Keleth slightly. "Aye, it would probably take your whole arm, girl. But I never doubted your dedication. And your friend told you what you'd have to do with....your arm? I have no barrier like you spoke of, Keleth. I've been bred before, so even if there ever was one, it is gone now. And even your whole arm is no bigger than a male of my kind would be. Do you take my meaning?"

Keleth thought for a moment, her fingers still lightly caressing along the hair and skin, then stopped. "I would have to thrust, to act the part of a stallion, would I not?"

Brighid made a sound, a little like a squeak or a gulp, it was hard to tell. She flushed hot and dark, the skin on her torso deepening a shade or two. Clearing her throat to regain some composure, she answered, "Y-yes, Keleth. That is what you would do to me. But it would help me to keep my focus on things during that time. You see, we get terribly distracted by the feelings and urges that come upon us. It makes us irritable when our needs go unfulfilled. Some mares even get a bit violent, frustrated at having no way of....how did you put it.....release?"

Keleth shivered slightly at the though of violence, and hoped that Brighid didn't see it. It was obviously difficult for Brighid to be speaking of such things, but Keleth wanted Brighid to get it all out in the open. "I don't want it to be a routine, something perfunctory. When the time comes, I want us to both enjoy it, Mistress. If we both enjoy it, the release will be more fulfilling and calm you more."

"I never thought of such a thing before. Most do not even mention that it happens. And the subject of what goes on between a mare and her attendant is never spoken of publicly. I'm surprised that your friend told you." Brighid thought a moment. "Now that I think about it, I suppose that Dyanna has always seemed to weather her time without any adverse effects. Do you suppose it's because little Brennan is more to her than just a means to service her...needs?"

Keleth opened her mouth, then closed it, afraid of revealing her new friend's secrets. Keleth did trust Brighid, but such things should be private. "I know only that Brennan doesn't look at it as just a duty, but... as intimacy between she and her Mistress."

"And you would prefer this too, Keleth?"

Keleth's hand stopped, resting on the hot, soft human skin above the horse hair, thinking for a moment. "Yes. Something like this should be intimate, rather than perfunctory."

Brighid was quietly thoughtful. At last she spoke softly, as if secretly so that her voice would not carry beyond the tent. "I think I'd like that, Keleth. And would you let me touch you again like before? Show me how you want to be touched? Not because I'd think of it as a trade of service. I liked seeing how you reacted. Somehow it pleased me. We could do that again. But you must speak of it to no one, Keleth. People would not understand."

"I promise that I won't tell anyone, not even Brennan, if you wish it, Mistress. And yes, I would love to be touched by you again." Keleth withdrew her hand slowly, sliding completely under the covers, then whispered, "Mistress, if you have nightmares in the night, I will comfort you. If they wake you, please wake me, and we can talk, or I can stroke your transition."

"You have my gratitude for that, Keleth. I will not forget that you help me this way." Brighid tucked the blanket up a little closer around Keleth's form as she settled in to sleep.

Keleth held off sleep until she could hear the rhythmic breathing of her Mistress, then faded into sleep herself.
 
Brighid dreamed. In the chill of early predawn, she twitched, the outward signs of her night visions. A quiet moaning sounded in the tent.

Keleth woke as if beckoned out of her sleep. She stayed under her blanket, a little cold, but watched and listened to see if her Mistress was having a nightmare.

Brighid's tail swished in agitation, and the tent flooded with a pungent earthy scent. Another whimpering moan sounded from her as her hands slid over her torso.

Keleth stood, shivering slightly, but her attention was on her Mistress. She wished that she could see the dreams, to understand them. The scent was very strong, but not exactly like arousal. Keleth didn't get very close, but was still within reach, of a grasp or blow.

Brighid's head was bowed, but suddenly she threw it back, eyes still closed, and seemed to tremble all over. She moaned again, one hand coming up under her breast, squeezing hard. With a sudden jerk, she woke from her sleep. Her hide was damp with sweat, and she shivered.

Brighid looked around, confused and disoriented. Her glance fell upon Keleth, seeing her watching. Brighid blushed and turned away quickly, lurching to her feet, her hide quivering.

Keleth quickly followed, placing her hand on Brighid's foreleg. "Mistress, please tell me about your dream. I want to help." Keleth crept closer, stroking the transition gently, trying to comfort, brushing her body against Brighid for warmth.

Brighid's flesh felt hot, hotter than normal. And where Keleth touched, Brighid's muscles twitched, quivering with a tension that almost vibrated. She moved slightly away, just out of reach, then paused and turned back. In a voice raw with need, she moaned, "What did you do to me, Keleth? It shouldn't happen yet! It's too soon!"

Keleth's tired mind didn't grasp the meaning right away, but then understood. The heat, the scent, Brighid's actions.... "Mistress! It's your time! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring it out soon, if I did. But I will help. Please tell me what you need me to do. I can get the stool right now." Keleth mind raced, less in control and guiding that she normally was.

Brighid grabbed Keleth's arm, pulling her close, taking a deep breath. "Get....the brush....brush me....I'm all soaked from the dream. Maybe that's all it is. Maybe....we can stop it before...." She trailed off, the tone of her voice suggesting she was as nervous and uncertain as Keleth. She whispered, as if to herself, "Cassandra never.... I'm not sure how we....should do this."

Brighid's confusion and hesitance brought out a calm and control in Keleth and she smiled. "No, Mistress, not just a brush. We will do this properly, and we will figure it out together. I will get the stool and stand behind you. Try your best to relax. I will take care of you." Keleth went quickly for the stool and set it directly behind Brighid, standing on it. At this position, when she lifted her arm, it was almost exactly level with Brighid's sex. The scent was almost overpowering.

Brighid's eyes followed her movements as the young woman moved around the tent. Now she was grateful they had more room. She stood stock still as Keleth set up and climbed upon the stool. With her hide still twitching nervously, she slowly lifted her tail to the side, flushing with arousal.
 
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