Clan McCallister.

[RoneLith]

Gin had finally had enough, his Lord had finally out lived his usefulness. He was rude to a woman who truly was his equal and should have been proud to call her his wife. She had also made every attempt to speak with him and try to at least get to know the man that she was too wed, yet he did not do the same. He sat silently hidden among the trees and brush next to the lake, trying to calm his soul so he can discover the appropriate action to take against his, now in his mind, former Lord.

He had been meditating for sometime when his sences stirred to someone else's pressance nearby, quickly he came out of his meditative state and leaped into the trees. His eyes scanned the area until he found the woman who had arrived earlier in the day, he watched as she removed her clothing and began to wash herself in the cool clear water. Gin smiled to himself before taking his leave and making his way back to the castle.

She was a pretty one, he thought as he made his way to the dinning hall. Quickly and silently he made his way up to the ceiling and through a small hole that he had already made earlier concealed himself in the shadows before covering his enterance. He had tied a section of the ceiling tightly together so he could use it as a doorway into the keep without worrying about being seen coming in through the main door. As he watched and listend to the story he wondered if it was time to introduce himself to the Lady of this keep. She had enthralled him with her strength and calm leadership her people not only followed her title but they all loved her and would gladly go to any length to please her. Truly he needed more time to meditate on this subject, his course of action still clouded by his own anger at his now former Lord that much he had already decided.

 

[Mistress Silver]

I have been asked to take the place of sister in this thread as the poster has seemingly abandoned ship.

Name: Fearcharia (Dear one)

Age: 18

Height: 4' 10"

Weight: 85 pounds

Hair: Silver-Blonde, waist-length, naturally curly.

Eyes: Bright violet eyes that seem to glow with an inner strength.

Appearance: Though she is short she is nothing short of a beauty. A body kept in tone by her constant wondering over the land. Her stomach is slim and toned, her breasts are full and firm and generous, but not overly so. She's got a stubborn jaw, high cheeks, pouting red lips that always appear glossy, and a slightly dimpled chin. Her arms and legs are strong and graceful, long and slender. As much as she uses them, her hands remain as sooth as silk and as warm as fleece, they are small with long fingers. All in all, she appears as a lost, fragile fairy, but she has a will stronger than the muscles of a pair of ox.

Personality: She is short, but she doesn't really care. She is very quiet and very calm. Due to her physical appearance rumors are whispered about her and her heritage. The more foolish they get the nearer they come to discovering a truth lost in a mess of knots. She was adopted by the McCallister clan when she was very young and Brianna has become an important person in her life. Though very soft spoken, she is one of the most knowing of people. She can cure a headache with a touch and increase the healing of another's wounds at a rate that can be visible seen. Due to her mystical abilities, of sorts, it has become a confirmed truth that she is a child of a druidess.

 

[Mistress Silver]

I enter the dining room silently and instantly glance at the hidden one within the shadows. What he is doing there is none of my concern, he is harmless enough. Unnoticed, I slip into my place at the table and begin picking at my food. My stomach is on edge as are my emotions, but by looking at my facial features you'd never know it.

Distastefully, I stay away from the meat and I eat only fruits and vegetables. The cook has cooked a tasty meal and though I have no apatite I know the taste and smell of every dish on the table as I taught the cook everything she knows.

Beth's story is a great one and its lesson is important for all listening to it. The laird is too quiet and I wonder if he is even attempting to acclimate to his new land.

I nod warmly to Beth as she is excused to settle the new clan member into her quarters. Remaining quite isn't hard to do, though I wish to further investigate this . . . laird . . . that my sister is promised to. As of now he seems quite a worthless waste of creation. I pray he proves me wrong.

 

[LadyChance]

Beth

Smiling I bid M'Lady and her Lord a good night, turning to catch the eye of the other Lord nodding to include him as well. Knowing that I have been dismissed for the evening, I turn to see Fearcharia had made it into the hall without being noticed. Smiling to her knowing she was trying to play it off as if she had, but knowing her she had been out creating some hate and discontent somewhere and it would be good not to go into details about it right now.

Slipping out of the great hall I head for the newest of our clans rooms. Knocking lightly upon the door calling softly to the girl. "Tis Beth, I have come to show you about and to take you to old Alma." Smiling when I see the door open almost as soon as my words end. Peeking just inside I notice the girl had made some of the room. Giving a nod of approval, before looking to the girl noticing that she had bathed. "Good, you have found the public baths I see, normally during the day they are busy. At night is the best time to go, the water is freshest and warmest. Thats usually when I try to go there is at night when no one else is around." Once again smiling to the girl Megan figuring her and I will be spending a lot of time together. Or at least I hoped to, there really weren't any unattached women other then myself in the keep and this girl was smart from the looks of her and I approved of that greatly.

"There are beautiful gardens to walk through if you like and I will be more then happy to show you the rest of the keep tomorrow after you have eaten and gotten some rest. But for tonite lets get you to Alma, be kind to her, tho she is old and grumpy all the time now. She has a heart of gold and does not want to be replaced."

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

"There are beautiful gardens to walk through if you like and I will be more then happy to show you the rest of the keep tomorrow after you have eaten and gotten some rest. But for tonite lets get you to Alma, be kind to her, tho she is old and grumpy all the time now. She has a heart of gold and does not want to be replaced."

Megan smiles back to Beth and followers her out of her little room.

"I'm glad that I have found a place here and I'll be sure to be easy on Alma's feelings. I only want to sit and sew, I don't wish to be a pest or in anyone's way."

Megan and Beth moved throughout the keep and she took in her surroundings. She was impressed that the floor was covered with fresh rushes and she was even more impressed that the tapestries were finely woven. "The keep is well furnished and strong. MiLady has done a fine job in its upkeep and it looks as if it will stand the trials of whatever may present itself."

Beth showed Megan the kitchens and giggled as Megan explained that she and the cook had all ready met. "I believe I am not favored here. I passed through and grabbed some bread and an apple, and recieved a tap upon my hand. But... a wink also." Megan smiled as the woman led her over to others that served the mistress.

Megan noticed men and women gathered here and there in the great hall, but she didn't see the man from the rafters. She would like to meet him, find out if he were an enemy or a friend to her ladyship. Shrugging her shoulders Megan looked at Beth, "Beth, you may be surprised, because of my station in life, but... do you perhaps have a library?"

 

[LadyChance]

Beth

Grinning to Megan with her question, "Aye that we do and M'Lady holds it dear to her, but we are indeed allowed to use it as long as she is not holding company there. Sometimes she asks me to join her there for me to read to her, or just to talk. Our Lady is very kind and yes very strong. I practice with steel with her in the mornings, as well as have my own horse in the stables."

Taking Megan through the great hall to the far corner stairs leading her up them unto the next floor. Opening a door with pride to show her the shelves of books upon books lining the walls. From floor to ceiling covering three walls with books of all types and stories. Most leather bound, some newer then others, the oldest ones being from the time before the Keep was ever built.

"All that our Lady asks is that we take care with each of them, treat them as if they are our own but never remove them from the libray. If you damage one please tell our Lady she will see to it being fixed. Not saying that you would but some are very old and well with time they tend to fall apart."

Closing the door quietly, before saying," Trust me you will have plenty of time to look. I tend to spend more time here and within the gardens then I do anywhere else. So you will have company in there most times, maybe we can even get her Lady to join us some evenings. Its time shall we go see Alma, she will be in her rooms now." Heading further up the stairs I take the time to show Megan where the private baths for her Lady and Lord are, along with their private chambers upon the floor. Before moving up to the furtherest floor, opening the only door upon the floor.

"This is where our seamstress spends most of her time, so we made the whole top floor her for the seamstress to use since she makes all of the clans clothing for all occasions." Stepping back so that Megan can look about the room as I call softly to Alma, moving in behind Megan looking about at all the wonderous materials and such scattered about the room.

With a soft sound the second door to the room opens emitting a small woman of indescribable years steps out. Moving with a slow gant to her form, moving forward to help her without seeming to. As I give Megan a wink and smile above the old womans head. As if to say, this is how to do this so she doesn't go off the deep end at you for helping her. Hoping she would get the message since she would be doing this soon. Leaning down to speak to the old woman I say, "Alma this is Megan and she has heard of your great skills with a needle and wishes to apprentice with you for a spell. Our Lady Brianna has asked me to bring her to you so that you might get to know her. She thinks highly of Megan and thinks you will to, she has quick or wit and is really gifted as you are with a needle and thread." Again giving Megan a wink hoping she will follow along with the tale, so that ole Alma would not take to her the wrong way.

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

"Alma this is Megan and she has heard of your great skills with a needle and wishes to apprentice with you for a spell. Our Lady Brianna has asked me to bring her to you so that you might get to know her. She thinks highly of Megan and thinks you will to, she has quick or wit and is really gifted as you are with a needle and thread." Again giving Megan a wink hoping she will follow along with the tale, so that ole Alma would not take to her the wrong way.

Megan smiled at the old woman, touching her hand softly. The soft skin reminded her of her grandmother, so long gone from her, that the memories were beginning to fade. Megan looked over the small figure, "Please sit Mistress Alma." Alma nodded her head and moved quietly back to her small rocker.

Looking to Beth, Megan smiled. "We'll be fine now, and I'll visit with Alma. I will tour your gardens later, perhaps I will find you there." Beth nodded back and left the two women together.

Megan settled down at the feet of the old woman and allowed Alma to rock slowly as questions slowly came from the old woman's lips. "Aye, child... so you came to learn."

"Aye, your fine with a needle I hear."

The old woman gruffed softly, "Aye, at one time I be. Now... you be here and I'll rest. I see from your hands you can stitch a line."

Her hands were specked with small dots of where the needle would often find itself a home against her skin. "I do tend to get poked some."

The woman laughed and pointed out to Megan where she would find all the things she needed. Alma rattled off where she kept her ladyships patterns for dresses. Megan was impressed to say the least over how much the old woman had in her sewing box and wardrobe.

She turned as the old woman had gotten quiet. Taking a blanket from the wardrobe, she placed it over the sleeping figure. Megan returned to the wardrobe and pulled out, linen and lace as well as silk and satin. Her fingers felt the fine material and goosebumps raised up on her flesh. She layed the pieces out and began to think of beautiful ways to blend them together.

Deciding she needed to find out her Ladyships wedding date, she left Alma resting, packed the lovely materials away and headed out to look for Beth or her ladyship.

Megan walked through the great hall and through the courtyard. She felt the eyes of the skipping lizard that seemed to hop to and fro across the rafters, and probably the trees, she thought to herself. She saw Beth busy with a few other servants, so chosing not to bother her, she continued exploring her new home.

She saw the two Lords and their men. One seemed very quiet as if contemplating on whether or not he wanted to be here. The Lord Gavin was laughing at some serving wench, probably wanting to bed her, Megan thought in disgust. Moving across the grounds she noted the smithy working hard at forming something into a circle. Megan drew closer and watched him work in concentrated silence.

Megan smiled at him when he finally noticed her, he nodded his head to her and smiled back. Lifting a small hand to him, she waved her goodbye and moved back towards the opposite direction. Perhaps she would find her ladyship in the stables.

 

[LadyFairy]

Seeing the sun set in the guarden's Brinna smiled enjoying the display of color's, as they faded from blue to purple, and orange to pink, slowly fading to a dull evening sky of gray, as the sun sank down for the night.

Brinna watched as torch barrers moved to light the torches hanging along the inner bally and along the wall's. So that those still about would be able to see. Rising from her place in the gardens Brinna begain to go inside the keep, wondering what the morrow would bring.

Seeing her sister inside Brinna moved tword's her, and asked. Fearcharia .. I was wondering if ye would care ta walk wi me ta visit Angus on the morrow, and inspect his latest work?

 

[LadyChance]

Beth

I hadn't stuck around long after I realized that Megan had a way with Alma. Quickly making my way through the Keep, I made my things ready for M'Ladies nightly ritual bath. Seeing the the tub and water had been begun before making my out the doors and into the courtyard.

Stopping to chat with a few of the others there, only noticing the time as the sun begins her slow decent. Streaking the sky in colors that only the finest of silks could come close to matching. Excusing myself from the others, making my way towards the kitchens remembering I had not eaten as of yet.

Grabbing a little bit of meat and cheese with a slice of bread before heading once again out the door giving a smile of thanks to cook as I go. Heading for the gardens and where I knew M'Lady would be. Eating as I walk thinking of all that had happened today.

Most of all my thoughts kept returning to the Lord Gavin, no matter how I tried they seemed to find their way back to haunt me. His had such nice friendly eyes, and a warm smile. Ugh here I had gone off to think about him once again. More determined now to not let him get into my thoughts I make a mad dash for the gardens.

 

[RoneLith]

She had seen him instantly but had not bothered to raise an alarm truly she was a member of Brianna's immidiot family with awarness tuned so sharply she could only be a reletive of hers. She could be his help in the times to come, he could feel a nagging in his soul a premonition that this peace was going to end soon. This place was being watched by someone outside the walls of the keep, someone who lived in shadow as he. However, they were horrible at it a shadow can almost always see another shadow but they had either did not see him or did not care. Truly they were not as trained as he was. They were just watching the keep he felt wondering who could have sent them.

 

[Mistress Silver]

"Fearcharia .. I was wondering if ye would care ta walk wi me ta visit Angus on the morror, and inspect his latest work?" My sister asks me.

I turn to slowly and my heart jumps. Keeping a serene mask in place I reply in kind, "I would love ta accompany ye, Brinna. I 'ave na spoken ta Angus in some time."

I slowly stand form my chair and allow my eyes to gaze over the faces of the people gathered. Amused, I watch Lord Gavin's eyes move to watch Beth take her leave with a few articles of food.

With a slight smile I lightly embrace my sister and murmur to her, "That laird of your's needs to be thrashed a few times."

I nod to my sister and leave just as I entered, unnoticed. Before it gets too late I will tend to my grove. The place that I can lower my guard and speak freely and act freely without fear of retaliation. The locale of my grove is a fair distanced walk from the keep and that suits me just fine, but I only walk the distance on occasion.

I outside of town a black horse with staring eyes awaits me. I pet it kindly for a while before I mount it bareback. The horse carries me across the land more swiftly than any other horse. This was a special creature that by chance took a liking to me. Should my sister or Beth dare to mount this horse, it would kill them by drowning them in the lake as kelpies tend to do.

The air buffets at my dress and streams it along behind me. A simple gown of emerald velvet with sapphire lace and large sleeves. Alma had made it for me on one of her slower days and I treasure it as I treasure all things.

I touch a jeweled sapphire brooch that I wear over my heart and a small flux of warmth greets my fingers. Ahead, a grouping of trees can be seen and the threatening aura that usually prevails cannot be felt. The kelpie weaves through the trees in a manner that a serpent might.

My grove suddenly appears and the kelpie freezes and we skid to a halt. I dismount from the horse's back and once again touch the brooch. A slight breath of cold greets my fingers and the kelpie becomes more lively. Rearing, almost threateningly, the kelpie lashes at me with his hooves.

"If ye do na cease that, I will bind ye for all eternity from ye'r water," I warn the kelpie. " 'Tis beyond me why ye 're acting so foolishly. We 'ave both discussed tha arrangement an came to a conclusion that befits us both," I add crisply.

The kelpie's attitude cools and it disappears into the forest to leave me within the sanctuary of my grove. Peace greets me and the world melts away.

 

[LadyFairy]

Looking around for Beth after speaking with her sister. Brinna smiled after asking a servent which way she went. Beth must have just missed her when she left the guarden.

Brinna decided not to bother Beth. Letting her enjoy the quiet of the guardens Brinna headed upstiars to her room. Seeing the tub of warm water and that her things had been layed out. Brinna moved forward and begain removing her gown, when she felt as tho she were being watched.

Looking around she didnt see anything even checking in her close chest and under her bed. Shaking her head and laughing at her immagination. Brinna finnished undressing and climbed into the tub.

Once done with her bath Brinna dressed in her shift, and robe sat down infront of the fire to dry her hair.

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

Megan moved through the stables noticing the animals beginning to settle down for the night. She sighed to herself, not quite ready to return to the little room. She had spent many a night outside so she was not sure she wanted to go back into the keep just yet. She touched the noses of each horse, then lifted the little cat she saw hiding in the corner to her arms. It nuzzled against her neck and she scratched its ears.

Moving back through the outdoors, the sun long gone now and the moon rising higher. Megan wandered around. A few torches burned here and there and she noticed that some formed a path. Her curiousity won out and she moved towards the lights. She meandered her way to the lovely gardens that Beth had spoke about. The pond reflected the moonlight and Megan found a small bench to sit at.

She rested there, admiring the look of the water, the breeze in the air and the radiant fragrance from the roses and lilies. Promising herself she would come back in the daylight, Megan slipped her feet from her shoes and walked to the water's edge. Dipping her feet in, the water chilly until her body adjusted to its temperature, she slowly moved the cold liquid with her feet, letting the night sounds surround her.

 

[Mistress Silver]

The moon has risen quite highly and I feel the need to get back to the keep. With the harvest of wild herbs nested in the crook of my arm I glance lovingly about the grove. Though it be not human I would give my life to defend it. It is as much a part of me as the very heart beating slowly within my bosom.

Before I leave, my slippered feet carry me silently to stand before the largest oak. He is the guardian while I am absent of my grove. We are linked together as one, giving the other strength when in need. The tree is old enough to be called ancient and its thick boughs are laced with mistletoe.

Comfortingly, I place my free palm against the coarse bark and smile as I never smile in the keep. When sincere my smile is as beautiful as a ringed full moon and many times brighter.

"Be at peace, me old friend," I whisper softly.

At the edge of the glade I whistle melodiously and summon the kelpie to my side. It seems to have calmed its self to a reasonable degree and I easily mount it.

" 'Tis good ta see that ye have come to an understanding. Now, I would appreciate it if'n ye would carry me back."

The kelpie snorts hotly and leaps forward. The ride passes quickly by and I soon find myself near the keep. My lips curl in amusement as I dismount the fairy.

The fairy flees into the night, presumably to take the life of some unwary victim, and I walk peacefully through the town. I pass by the smithery in hopes of catching a sight of Angus. I haven't seen him lately and I consider him one of my closest friends . . . well, as close a friend as a druidess can have. However, my hopes are for naught as the forge is dark and silent.

Feeling suddenly heavy of heart I continue on my way. Deciding that I would not forsaken my late night walk I make a detour to the garden I have not visited for quite some time.

As I near the pond I glimpse the newest member of the clan. If memory serves, than her name is Megan. Silently, as it is a part of my nature, I make myself comfortable on the bench.

"Do ye plan ta swim, lass?" I ask the seamstress while I sort through the herbs in the crook of my right arm. "If ye wish I 'ave some fresh herbs that will do ye'r body some good ta use."

 

[poohlive]

Gavin sees everyone else leave to their respective corners of the keep for the night. He feels obligated to do so, himself. Although, something does tug at him, he would like to talk to someone, at least. It seems so formal for everyone to have dinner, listen to a story, and then drop off to their own little worlds.

That is why he hates formal life so much. Real life was around a campfire, with a few soldiers, drinking and talking of stories, women, and conquests of each. This polite conversation followed by gossiping in the corners. Ah, he didn't know if he could handle it.

Gavin went for an evening bath, and then retired to his room.

 

[LadyChance]

Beth

Not finding M'Lady in the gardens I had quickly moved to tend to the eve chores waiting until all had grown quiet with the night. Before heading for the baths I knew would be warm and welcoming. Figuring the Lady would have already gone to her bed since she had not called upon me.

Slipping up to my rooms grabbing the items I would need in the baths before heading down quietly passing those sleeping and those in small conversations. Not wanting to disturb anyone with my passing, I move quiet as a ghost along the corridors. Slipping into the shadows and then out again as I make my way, upon reaching them I open the doors entering.

Turning to see Lord Gavin in all his magnifisant glory, stripped of every shred of clothing. My eyes of their own accord move slowly down his glorious body, taking in several battle scars that must have been given to him recently. Realizing that I am standing in the open watching a man bath that I have no right to see, I slip back out quietly. Feeling my face go ablaze with the memories of his body by torch light and wondered if all mens bodies looked as good as he had, and did all of them support such a nice...

Shaking my head with my thoughts, slipping around the corner of the bath house, staying to the shadows until I hear him leave fearing that he would see the glow that my face was giving off. If I had been bolder or even braver I would have stepped out but instead I just watch him walk away. Not saying a word until he disappears, whispering softly into the night, "Gnight M'Lord Gavin sleep well." Knowing he would not hear them but feeling better for saying them as I slip back into the baths.

Taking my time to enjoy the scent of him in the bathing area, knowing he had just been here. Releasing my long braid feeling the thickness of it upon my body as I sink slowly within the soothing waters. Quickly dunking my head soaking my hair fully before cleansing it, then beginning upon my body.

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

"Do ye plan ta swim, lass?" I ask the seamstress while I sort through the herbs in the crook of my right arm. "If ye wish I 'ave some fresh herbs that will do ye'r body some good ta use."

Megan is startled, and jumped from her place on the shoreline of the pond. "Oh hello," she smiled as she did a small curtsy. She could tell my this woman's dress and demeanor that she was of some importance.

"I'm terribly sorry to have disturbed you. I didn't realize anyone was in the gardens." Megan extended her hand, "I'm Megan, I'm not sure if we were introduced or not. I apologize if we were and I have forgotten."

The woman introduced herself as Brianna sister, Fearcharia and touched Megan's hand softly. "Fearcharia, that is a beautiful name, quite lovely."

"I was just enjoying the peace of the evening, my mind to busy racing about with my new surroundings. I know it isn't my place, but I since a quietness about the Lord our Lady is meant to marry. Is everything ok..." Megan noticed the woman's raised brows, "I apologize, I once again overstep my place. I would ask if you could tell me when they are to wed. I would like to begin working on her bridal gown."

 

[Mistress Silver]

"Ye 'ave na need ta apologize wen askin me a question. Ye'r welcome in this garden, Megan. Should a soul dare an' tell ye differently tell them that you 'ave permission from the druidess. Ye will not be bothered again, but ye be warned: by say'n such your popularity may go down an' up in places ye may na like."

I stretch my legs leisurely and glance up toward the moon. The once starless sky is beginning to cloud over just as the wind said it would. Weather, such a lovely force of power. I can never find a hint of gracelessness as it passes us by. Even when it is raging it is graceful and beautiful.

" Tha matter of marriage lies with Brinna and tha Laird. I think tha man is a little ta silent. If tha laird does na speak soon I will give him reason ta na be use'n his tounge." My voice drips with the dislike of the man who is promised to my sister.

To lighten the mood I ask her, "Do ye know much about herbs?"

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

" Tha matter of marriage lies with Brinna and tha Laird. I think tha man is a little ta silent. If tha laird does na speak soon I will give him reason ta na be use'n his tounge." My voice drips with the dislike of the man who is promised to my sister.

To lighten the mood I ask her, "Do ye know much about herbs?"

Megan sighed, "Well he seems quiet, perhaps he doesn't favor her. Though her beauty and strength holds second to you ma'am." Megan wasn't stupid, you didn't tell one sister the other was prettier then the other. This sister was tiny almost as thin as a reed. But Megan kept her thoughts to herself.

"I know next to nothing about herbs. I can sew though. My mother and her mother before her could sew, and I learned from them" Megan moved through the flowers as the sister moved with her. Megan wondered why this sister had suddenly developed an interest in one of such low standing. With her being of lower ilk then the mistress, Megan was curious as to why the woman bothered with her.

"Would you be so kind to tell me more about the residents of this keep?" Megan was hoping to learn about the leaping man who's eyes rested on her often, she could feel him in many places. She also was curious about the smithy she had waved to in the yard earlier in the day. She was far from curious as to the two Lords, silent wasn't her type and he was betrothed to her lady and the other seemed interested in the next light skirt he could toss up.

Though Megan wasn't looking to become involved with anyone, she did want to find out what men to avoid in the castle walls, unsure as to who was attached and considered proper to talk with and who was single and considered improper to be alone with.

 

[Mistress Silver]

"Well he seems quiet, perhaps he doesn't favor her. Though her beauty and strength holds second to you ma'am." The seamstress supplies.

I scoff at her, more amused than offended by the lie I hear within her voice. "Megan? Ye may kiss the bottoms of anyone else ye may want ta flatter, but na mine. Do ye na know 'bout druidesses and our powers?"

I stroll beside the seamstress and find myself growing fond of the lass. For me this is bad news, but for her it is good. People do not insult a person with a druidess's favor upon them. If they do many foul things could be fall the insulter.

"I know next to nothing about herbs. I can sew though. My mother and her mother before her could sew, and I learned from them." The manner in which she speaks hints to her curiosity about my interests in her. That isn't unusual as everywhere I seem to turn people leap out of my path or quickly advert their eyes, but one within the walls of the keep did not do those things to her, Angus.

"Relax, lass. I am na goin ta curse ye or anything such," I tell her somberly. "Tha two ye are most interested in are Angus, the blacksmith, and the one who hides within the shadows." Her step falters ever so slightly, but she quickly recovers with a surprising amount of grace. "Do an be shocked, I know everything. Angus 'tis a very dear man. Older than me, but still young. He will treat ye right and 'tis plenty safe to be alone with. Tha is if'n ye two do na 'ave a mutual passion. Tha one who stalks the shadows is one you will have ta seek out on ye'r own."

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

"Relax, lass. I am na goin ta curse ye or anything such," I tell her somberly. "Tha two ye are most interested in are Angus, the blacksmith, and the one who hides within the shadows." Her step falters ever so slightly, but she quickly recovers with a surprising amount of grace. "Do an be shocked, I know everything. Angus 'tis a very dear man. Older than me, but still young. He will treat ye right and 'tis plenty safe to be alone with. Tha is if'n ye two do na 'ave a mutual passion. Tha one who stalks the shadows is one you will have ta seek out on ye'r own."

Megan stopped short, "Oh heaven's NO Miss!!! I wasn't asking for that. I know not of passion, nor do I seek it. I was more curious as to who I should avoid. I don't look for passion!"

Megan looks back at the path they are taking, "No, I know not of the druids or their druidess's." She paused for a moment, "Well perhaps some. I have read some books on the subject, but I don't quite understand it all."

As the two women begin to slowly make their way back to the keep, Megan tells the woman, "It is a fascinating belief, though and very strong I have read if one chooses to follow and believe it its powers." As they reach the courtyard and make their way into the great hall. Megan feels the eyes on her again. "I won't seek any man out Mistress. I am not one to do that. So I'm sure I will be quite safe within the walls of the keep. Thank you for speaking with me."

Megan took her leave and moved towards her room. Her first day having made her feel welcomed into the clan. As her head hit the pillow she felt a funny thought pop into her head..."Me search out passion.. ha!" Her eyes closed and her weary body fell into a deep slumber.

 

[Mistress Silver]

My bold statement kills her walking movement and my lips curl into a serviceable smile. I listen to her rushed protests with the patience of a mother.

"Perhaps I know more about ye than ye ye'r self does?" I ask amused.

"I won't seek any man out, Mistress. I am not one to do that. So I'm sure I will be quite safe within the walls of the keep. Thank you for speaking with me."

"If ye do na know what ye wants than ye shouldn't voice anythin at all. I 'ave never seen a lass that 'as never wanted a pair of warm muscled arms around her in tha night. I am na exception, me self. Ye 'ave more of a chance to get a nice strong lad for ye self than I do. For me sake, do na waste ye'r beauty."

Without awaiting her response I leave. My steps are slow and unhurried, but inside I am running as fast as I can. I do not wish to be interrupted in any manner, but I never have to worry about that.

In my room I slowly put the herbs I'd gathered on a small table. My dress is removed and my nightwear adorned. I lay silently on my bed under a thick stack of blankets. Though my body is tired I cannot go to sleep for a few hours still. I spend these sleepless hours under the covers, curled into a ball for warmth that I can never seem to find. Finally, I manage to join the goddess of the deep sleep dreaming.

 

[LadyChance]

Beth

Being done with all that needs to be done with everything and all else asleep I slip quietly up to my rooms. Curling into my bed with dreams of the Lord Gavin dancing about in my head. Was he like most men and after wenches who would give freely of their charms? I wondered a while longer about him and the other men of the keep. Perhaps, I should seek M'Ladies advice with this matter, since her and I had been best friends for so long maybe she would know an answer to give me.

Waking the next morning realizing that I had overslept a little, quickly doning my practicing attire I rush down the stairs headless of anything else. Not wanting to feel Ian's wrath once again on my backside. Upon reaching the practice grounds however being out of breath and out of luck so it seems. For Ian and Lady Brianna stand awaiting me, both with a grim smile upon their lips of determination.

Hefting my sword preparing as best as I can knowing full well that I was in for some punishment of a different sort today. With each swing of Ian's blade I felt across my backside. Giving a grunt I would use the tactics that Lord Gavin had shown me, blocking several only to find that Lady Brianna would slip in to deliver the unseen blow. Being aware of each blow that I receive in such fashion, so does M'Lady from Ian.

With a round robin of sorts, each of us taking our blows and returning the favors. Feeling the strain of the sword, as well as the blows on our asses soon Lady Brianna and I are looking worst for wear. Tired and barely able to weild the swords properly but we continue to move as Ian instructs us in our movements. Feeling as though we are stuck in a dance of never ending punishment and instruction.

Ian finally calls a halt to the mornings practice and both M'Lady and I fall to our knees thanking whatever Gods would listen to us at that moment. Taking the time to catch our breaths as Ian stands over us a smile of enjoyment upon his face as he offers us both hands up from the ground. M'Lady looks to me saying, "I think he truly enjoyed that practice." Grunting as she picks herself up with help, "Aye he loves to strike our poses amount other things" Saying this as I promtly pick myself up as well with Ian's help. Knowing there would have been no other way to stand for either of us with out his help this morn.

Looking at Ian as he clears his throat lustily, "Aye girls you both are improving, makes me feel proud for each blow I am able to deliever to each of you now." As his hand moves to rub his backside as well, moving as one we all head towards the main hall laughing and joking together. It was mornings like this that I enjoyed the most here in the Keep.

Smiling as M'Lady then informs me that she will fore go her morning bath, being that she does not feel up to impressing anyone this morning. Laughing with understanding, as sore as I was I knew M'Lady to be just as sore. As well that she would require my precense at the high table today for morn fast. Giving her a strange look wondering what it is that she would need but not saying a word about it. I do however say,"Thank you M'Lady, I shall see to what needs tending and then be at your side as you have asked."

 

[LadyFairy]

Brianna new the morning meal would take a little while longer and that Beth would find her when it was time. Brianna had decided to head for the library when she noticed the look on Duncan's face as she entered the keep. Watching as he noticed her clothing, and turned in mid stride to head her direction his face red, fist’s balling at his side’s.

Her own eye’s narrowing in anger as she slowly smiled waiting for him to reach her. Brinna held up her hand to forestall the on coming argument, Staying as calm as she possibly could. Brinna had expected this argument to happen sooner or later, and to be honest was glad they were going to get this over and done with.

Mi lord if ye will please accompany me ta the library, I’ve no a wish ta embarrass me or ye’r self in front o’ the clan. She said the anger evident in her voice, as she kept her words low enough that only he could hear them.

Seeing that she had caught his attention as he looked around, noticing that all eye’s were now on them. He glanced around the room, her people quickly turning back to their tasks and pretending not to notice what was going on.

Turning back to her he nodded for her to lead the way, and seeing his mouth tighten even more, Brinna noticed that she had succeeded in pissing him off further, and turned to enter the library with him on her heel’s closing, and locking the doors behind them so they wouldn’t be interrupted.

 

[RedHairedandFriendly]

Megan awoke with a small shill against her skin. She rose up and made her small bed, much for relaxed and refreshed from the nights she had spent sleeping. Moving to her little wardrobe closet she pulled her last clean dress from the closet. She would have to find the cakes of soap and a place to clean her other two dresses.

Though Megan had not quite heard or at least she couldn't recall when the Mistress Brianna was to wed, she knew that eventually she would, so she would start on her gown today.

Megan dashed through her morning absolutions and tied back her long red hair with a leather strip. Her curls feel free near her eyes, so she tucked them back. She moved quietly through the keep noting the Mistress and the quiet Lord move into the library. Shrugging her shoulders she moved off to the kitchens, once more she snuck in behind the cook and grabbed a small roll of meat and a slice of warm bread. Leaving the room before the cook saw her, Megan headed outside for some air before she would begin her work on her Ladyships dresses.

Her eyes took in the chickens that pecked at the ground and the small children that took care of them. She saw an older girl, moving around a hut, obviously gathering eggs. The morning work still in full rush, she felt the eyes of the leaper, bounding from treetop to treetop, "I wonder if his legs get tired," she thought to herself, as she started to hum.

Megan moved on through the grounds, looking at the various men and women who worked well together, she noticed the large man training with the men, "More like abusing the poor fellows," she mumbled. She moved ahead towards the smithy, not seeing him at his work, she felt a bit saddened, but oh well, he was a single man, just like the leaping one, so it was probably for the best that he wasn't there. Megan recalled the words of the woman she had met in the gardens, about wanting a man to wrap their arms around them. She sighed and admitted, "Yes it would be nice, but so highly unlikely, the ladies here are so lovely, brave and unique, I am just like all the other lowly servants."

She finished her bread and meatroll, and moved back towards the greathall, and up the stairs to begin her work on Lady Brianna's trouseau. Her mind running over ideas and fine designs. She quietly opened the door and saw Mistress Alma asleep once more. Megan pulled the ivory silk out and a small box full of crystal beads and seed pearls. "A lovely bodice this will make." Megan fished out some silver and gold filament and sat down at the long table to begin her long day of sewing.