Collie

Integrity

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:59:59 GMT

Colleen stored the aged violin back in the vault. She made a mental note that her will would remain as it was. She was likely to outlive Ali given the nature of things, but some things were just the right thing to do.

His refusal to take the violin had surprised Colleen but had not hurt her feelings as he might have thought. Given what she had asked of him, she understood. Her tattered memories had had one more set of stitches added; Ali was a man of integrity. He could easily have given lip service to the promise to not sell the Stradivarius and sold the instrument for the high price it would command at any auction.

She made a trip to her banker in Rhydin City and made arrangements for an account to be opened. Considering the potential value of what she had offered, the sum of five thousand gold was a pittance. A letter was delivered to Ali's shop by courier.

Ali,

Last night when you refused the Strad, you helped a piece or two of my memory come back into place. You are a man of integrity who would, in my opinion, rather not make a promise to a friend that could easily be broken if the right circumstances were to happen. In light of this, I have decided to give you a more practical birthday and wedding gift. Enclosed with this letter is information regarding the bank account that was opened this morning in your name. All that is required is that you provide the bank with a signature.

Take your lovely Fio on a trip, buy something you need or that your heart desires. Buy that bike back if you haven't already.

Colleen

The Remembrance Book 11

Thu, 28 May 2009 13:13:57 GMT

27 Sunshare 1277

Your grandfather made an apple pie for the first time. He was quite pleased with himself! There's a certain knack to pinching the edge of the crust and it takes a bit of time to get it perfect. The finished pie was very good and we topped it with some sweetened cream. I think the next experiment will be strawberry shortcakes. I say cakes because they are made in small servings for individuals. Your father is fond of strawberries.

He brought me these lovely plants called cloud thistle. He's always doing thoughtful things like that. I'm especially fond of his wood carvings. He is very skilled and those gifts have come from the heart. In time you will learn that giving of yourself is usually more important than giving of what your purse holds.

Winter is several cycles away, but I'm already putting up some berries and apples for the winter. The new house will have a root cellar among other things that we don't have at the cottage. It will serve as cold storage for the butter I make as well as the fresh milk from our cow. I have considered getting another cow, but I think that will wait until the two of you are a bit older. The cow we have produces enough milk for us now, but growing children need more than adults.

It will soon be time to go to my homeland and claim the crossbred horses. We can house them in the new stables. Those that remained behind are about a year old now. Saoirse's foal should come around the end of Warmgrow.

Your Papa wanted to know if you are ready to learn to ride yet. By the time Yearpass comes you should be sitting up well enough on your own that we can get you up in the saddle and get you used to feel of one. Of course, by then it will be too cold for children so little to be outside much. I think, though, that we can find a way to get things underway. Maybe a sleigh ride or two would be a good idea. We'll see what the winter brings.

I have spent the last couple of tendays working on a new dress. I shall need it soon. One day, I'll tell you all about that event.

It is hard to believe that it's been two years since I arrived here. Summer will be upon us very shortly. Now that I figured a way to keep the pair of you settled outdoors, I shall have little or no difficulties getting work done in my garden. Next year, though, will prove to be a bigger challenge. Four small feet running about can cause a great deal of mayhem. So, I think I should set aside a part of the garden for both of you to play in. I'm sure you'll be mud from head to toe, but that is what soap and water is for!

The Remembrance Book 10

Wed, 13 May 2009 09:53:09 GMT

13 Sunshare 1277

Your grandfather has moved into the cottage with us. Thankfully, we get along well despite each of us having stubborn moments from time to time. I must admit that there is a sense of great comfort in this for me. He reminds me of my own beloved grandfather. I hope you will enjoy as close a tie to him as I did to Daideó.

You, Raymond Michael, are named for your grandfather and mine. Lark Aleysia, you carry the name of your father's mother as your second name. It seems that middle names are not necessarily a tradition here. My own mother gave me three names, one of which was the surname of my grandfather. Kirin Fand, my children, is not the name my parents chose, but one that was chosen for me due to unusual circumstances. Fand is the name of a sea goddess, she was called the "Pearl of Beauty." Pearl was Daideó's pet name for me.

In quiet hours when you are napping, I spend some time writing down the stories Grandfather Raymond has to tell. I try not to tire him, but when it comes to telling stories about his family, he could go on for hours. Stories of shearing a dog and and chopping down saplings for a treehouse are my favorites. It is important to know who we are, who come from. The Lexingtons on the farm in Pigeon Creek are who your father comes from. You are part of that family and its history, you are part of its future.

Something I hesitate to write. Your father worries that he will not see you grow up. Should that happen, you are what he will leave behind. Eventually, you will be what we leave behind. No matter who questions the circumstances of your birth, know that you are loved. Carry that with you always. It is as much a part of our legacy to you as land that is passed from parent to child.

The Remembrance Book 9

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:28:32 GMT

1 Gentrain 1277

And so, you are here, the pair of you; just a bit over a cycle old. Four tiny hands and feet, twenty fingers and toes all accounted for. I thank Danu and Nostrella along with Hannah, Kai, and Cailin for your safe arrival. Nostrella is a goddess of healing and many here believe in her power, many do not. Danu is the mother goddess of my people. Those of us that come from her are called the Tuatha Dé Danaan (we say this too-ah-hah day dah-nuh-n) which means the people of Danu.

You are children of two worlds, but you will grow up in this one. I am quite happy that neither of you has my ears. It will be easier for you to get along in life without being labeled as a half breed or an outlander. Life is not always easy for either of those. My happiness at your lack of pointed ears pales beside my joy that both of you are healthy.

Your births are recorded with the magistrate in Dreven as such: Raymond Michael and Lark Aleysia Lexington, son and daughter of Willam Lexington and Kirin Fand, born in good health on the twenty-fifth day of Fadefrost of this year, and so sworn by said Willam Lexington, a major in the Order of the Silver Moon Knights, before the officer of the court and these other witnesses.

I have had little time of late to write these memories down! I have been busy tending to you and revising the plans for the house. It seems that your grandfather is considering remaining near Dreven. I have not discussed it with your father, yet, but I have added an extra room to the plans for the first floor, just in case. Your Grandfather Raymond has promised stories for you. I have thought about asking Malie to write them down as he tells them.

Your brother, Vittal, first came to see you when you were a bit over a tenday old. While he seemed a bit uncomfortable at first, I think in time he will adjust well to having a brother and sister. It cannot be easy on him having returned from an extended time on patrols to find that not only had the pair of you arrived, but that your papa's father and brother were here as well. A large family tree has blossomed or maybe one might say that it has been dropped on him. I can only imagine how awkward (at best) that this is for him. It warmed my heart to watch Vittal and your papa with Raymond Óg. (Óg, I might note means young in Irish and is oft used to distinguish a younger namesake from an elder.) Time, patience, and a bit of faith are what is needed.

I was always taught to do my best to treat people kindly. I sometimes fail in this, but I do try. My advice to you, my children, in this regard is that a small bit of kindness might go a long way. Buying someone a drink or a meal when you can afford it and they cannot is a simple way of showing regard for other folk. If asked for recompense tell the person that they owe you nothing save to do a good turn for someone else when they are able. This good turn need not involve money as some might think, it may be the giving of one's time or skills. This was a lesson passed on from my grandfather.

Ghosts of the Past 2

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 20:21:03 GMT

On the eighth of Bitewind, Kirin had word that Will had gone off on patrol. Since it came from Kai and not Will himself it was a sign that something was not right. While it was not uncommon for Will to go off on a patrol with his knights at any given time, it was unlike him to have not told her. In the end it was simple, he needed time to think. The last time he went off like that, Kirin had delivered the news that Bug was coming.

On the thirteenth, Kirin arrived at the Crosswinds just in time to hear something that made her blood run cold. Ollie Faswell was an odd boy to say the least. That night, he was being particularly strange.

"When I was little, sick people used to send for a special killer to kill them. Well, not all sick people just some of them." And after much rebuttal from the crowd of adults, he asked, "Well, what if the healer can't help them anymore and they just want to die? DO you think it's a good idea to kill them?"

Kirin just couldn't believe it, it was mind boggling! That boy is getting stranger all the time. I wonder just what he is up to. Where is he going with all of this? Has he lost what little mind he has left? And what did he just ask....

"I mean, what if her arms and legs were cut-off or something like that and she said, Kill me! Please Cris if you love me, then kill me. Would you do it?"

By Danu, the boy really is crazy!

"Or would you stick her parts in a sack and run off to a healer with her and get them sewn on? He paused and turned to Pol. "Well, what if she was bleeding really slow or something?"

Pol's right! Ollie IS a morbid child! Where's the dog? I thought he was supposed to be track of the little...

"I want to try everything everyone else has tried and more." The boy smiled. "I'll leave no stone unturned."

Good goddess, the boy has lost it... did he ever have it?? And what IS it anyway? What was that noise? Oh... it's Brigi! When the door bangs it's usually her or Kendra. No, no, boy don't annoy the Dwarf.

"Didn't I get ye a job that ye shirked? What in Mursuckin's beard were you thinkin'??" Brigi asked

"I don't remember but I'm a free agent now. You know, on my own, so I can do whatever I want. Well, almost whatever I want."

For Bug's sake, woman stay near Will, this could get ugly! Gah... Brigi's angry, I would be, too, if that boy was annoying the ...

"Boy, ye got mushrooms in yer ears. I AIN'T TAKEN YE ANYWHERE! Ye call me red again, yer dead."

Oh, grand, I wanted to be wrong. Ollie's taunting Brigi. Well, damn. My aim is off, I missed hitting him with my drink! What in ... Oh, bloody hell! Brigi's loosed Banda on the boy. CRIMNEY!! The cat's gone prehistoric, she's huge!! And the boy... he's gone daft! His eyes are not his own! Good goddess! They are that bastard Lembic's! I can't move my feet. It's as though he's paralyzed me to the spot! Will? Where are.. oh, there you are! We're all standing here in morbid fascination! The cat just ripped open the boy's throat. I swear on Bug's life that this is that thing's doing... and, no, not the cat. She's being used so the boy will suicide. That beast in him has chosen this. He has no right!

"Kirin," the Major said, though he didn't look at her.

I asked about wood.. the body needs to be burned before that evil infests and it rises aga... Gods! What is that.. it's cold.. it's.. oh, loverly, it's HIM... he's out. He has to be stopped.

"Will you just go, woman?"

It's Will.. how can I make him understand? I know what he expects, but I know this beast must be stopped. So does he. The portal is ready, if Lembic can be lead to it, he can be destroyed. I can feel that shadow trying to follow as I leave. It's cold, it's evil, it feeds on hate. It wants innocent blood and it's not getting Bug.

The Remembrance Book 8

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:09:05 GMT

16 Fadefrost 1277

Did I ever tell you why we started calling you "Bug?" The first time your Papa felt you moving inside me, I told him that was like the fluttering of butterfly wings. And so, Chubbie became Bug.

I have met your grandfather, Raymond Lexington. He's a dear, kind man. He's much like your Papa in some ways. I can see where he gets his sense of humor. Much to my embarrassment, I realized I was shoeless when he got to the front door! Didn't seem to trouble him any, he just wanted to see your father kiss me hello!

It was on that same day that we, the three of us, discovered that there are two of you not just one. Your Grandfather Lexington seemed quite pleased by that announcement. He said he has always wanted to have twins in the family.

About a year ago, I dreamed of being given a cradle. And, on the same day that I met your grandfather, I was presented with a cradle. While your dear father might say that I exaggerate, I have never seen anything to equal this. While other children might find themselves sleeping in grand and costly beds, few will sleep in something made with such love and care, my little bugs. The bear and owl carved on the head and footboards are symbolic. Will was born on the Day of the Owl and I on the Day of the Bear. I am suspecting that you will arrive on the last Day of the Owl in the cycle of Fadefrost. You are, or at least one of you is, in a hurry to arrive.

Hannah is the midwife that will get your path as you come into the world. She has fire and, yet, a gentle healing touch. Both are needed when dealing with one as stubborn as me!

Cailin, who is kin to us, has come to help look after you for a while after you are born. One never knows how long or how difficult a birthing might be. Better that she is on hand and ready than needed and not here.

18 Fadefrost 1277

It troubles me that your brother, Vittal, seems to have made himself scarce these days. Knightly duties come first you will learn, but it still troubles me that no mention of him came from your grandfather. Raymond has a deep sense of family. I think that knowing Vittal, adopted or not, had been with him all of this time would give him comfort. It saddens me that Vittal seems to have distanced himself from family when he is likely needed most.

I am confined to the cottage for now. I refuse to observe the custom of laying in unless it is absolutely necessary. I walk the grounds with Cuckoo to clear my head and stretch. I sleep a lot of late, but I suppose that is my body's way of reserving energy for helping the pair of you to arrive.

Day of the Owl, 25 Fadefrost 1277

Labor has begun, Will is here with me and a knight has been sent for Hannah. Kai probably already knows.

Back to Business 2

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:59:48 GMT

Once the deliveries were made, there were other things to be attended to. Collie felt the slight tugging on her hand and looked down to find her very patient charge looking up at her.

"Can we go see the babies, now, Gran?" Limele asked.

"Of course, mavourneen, and, perhaps, an ice cream afterward."

At four, Limelenath Sulriniel had a tumble of dark waves that fell about her shoulders and hid her pointed ears. Like her grandmother, her eyes changed color according to her mood. Unlike Colleen, green meant the girl was delighted. She had the same curiosity in her eyes that her aunt, Rhiannon, did at her age. Her small sneakers squeaked as she walked on the buffed floors.

When they got to the nursery, Collie lifted the little girl up so she could see better.

"Gran, are we takin' one home?" Limele's face lit up as she thought about that. A little brother or sister to play with, to share secrets with, and, maybe, to lay blame on when she was caught doing mischief.

"No, love, they likely all have families to go home to." Collie couldn't help but smile. Out of the mouths of babes.

"But what if they don't??" Her eyes grew wide. "They'd haveta get a home, Gran!! The orphage is filled!!"

"That's orphanage, lass." She was trying not to smile, but it was a hard task given the girl's enthusiasm.

"Gran, can you get another baby? Like Kitty and Rick? You could bring them home!! And love them all up!!" She was almost bouncing as she thought about it.

Collie closed her eyes a moment. Just a few days ago, she'd considered that very thing, the desire to have another child. But dreams, even to the fair folk, were fragile things. Finally she thought of something to say, "I could, lass, but then I would not be able to take you gallivanting about." She punctuated the sentence by lightly tapping the child's nose.

"Aunt Dee Dee says Granny Kirin is getting a baby."

"Yes, she is and I'm going to see her."

Colleen was somewhat envious of Kirin. She'd seen how that tall and ruggedly handsome man looked at her and how Kirin looked at him. How wonderful to be so lost in someone else that the rest of the world disappeared for a time.

Thankfully, Limele's questions had ended and the young one was yawning. She was dropping off to sleep as Colleen went to the visitors lounge to make a call. Anyone in earshot could have heard her as her voice faultered, "It's me. Come home. I need you." It was all she said before closing the cell phone.

Back to Business 1

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:27:03 GMT

While Collie had often avoided people for various reasons, she rarely shirked a responsibility. Despite wanting to knock that chip off the shoulders of the clinic's Director of Administration, she got back to business as usual. Either Colleen or Nicole, 17, and Rhiannon, 15, delivered the meals as per the agreement.

On Friday, she brought the last of the week's meals along with her granddaughter, Limele. Colleen was not exactly her normal self and the little girl's company helped her focus on the task at hand instead of reminding herself of something that had been cut short. The truth was that she was sadly mistaken, she had it wrong, she always did when it came to those things. She felt used and it hurt, gods, it hurt. She had spent Thursday morning crying on Dris's shoulder. When she finally cried herself out, he held her for the rest of the night. The redhead rarely let anyone see her tears, to even get a glimpse was a sign of deep trust. She was a firm believer in letting people hear her roar, but never to see or taste her tears. To allow it was a weakness, a weakness that she could not afford.

If only she had not opened up. Would've, should've, could've, it was too late for that. She'd opened her heart after saying "never again" and as always, the old wounds grew deeper every time. There wasn't a way to go back and change it. Kirin proved it wasn't a wise idea even when you had the means. Something else would go wrong.

For Anya, Collie delivered a Lemon Ginger Fajita Salad with chicken for lunch. For dinner, the side dish was Broccoli and Tortellini Alfredo and to go along with it, Lamb Chops with Orange Butter. Lunch for Ali was a Chicken Crescent Calzone; dinner was lamb kabobs. The dessert, however, was not of her own making; it was Ariana's baklava.

Letters written on Colleen's letterhead were dropped off with the food.

Doctor Maranya Valkonan
Chief of Staff
Riverview Clinic
Rhydin

Dr. Valkonan,

I have taken the liberty of drawing up a formal proposal for the Director of Administration regarding therapy animals that we discussed. I have modified the plan somewhat. Navarra Farms will take separate and full responsibility for any insurance costs incurred.

I will be out of the realm for a brief time. In order to avoid a conflict of interest, power of attorney has been granted to Ariana MacGyldren to act on my behalf in this matter. I have chosen Mrs. MacGyldren as she is a trusted friend and lives closer to the clinic than any of my grown children. My solicitor, should she be required, is Rachael E. MacLeod, who resides in Mellor.

Sincerely,

C. Colleen MacLeod
Navarra Farms

Mr. Ali al-Amat
Director of Administration
Riverview Clinic
Rhydin

Dear Sir,

I am writing regarding the recent discussion with Dr. Valkonan, Chief of Staff, regarding therapy animals. I would like to propose a formal agreement on the matter.

Navarra Farms will provide the dogs and handlers to facilitate this project. Initially, this will be twelve dogs and one handler per animal unless otherwise agreed. Collies, Alsatians, and several other breeds are available. The first, however, is the best suited for young children. If the dogs are to be housed on the premises owned by the clinic, funds will be provided to cover construction of suitable housing as well as other necessities. Medical care will be be provided pro bono by William MacLeod-Striker DVM. As to the concern of liability insurance, Navarra Farms will agree to underwrite and assume the full financial burden.

There is great potential for this project. Various programs utilizing a variety of animals to assist patients have had remarkable results. It is hoped that Riverview's patients might also benefit from such programs.

As I will be out of the realm in the near future, I should like to discuss this matter with you. If that it not possible, Mrs. Ariana MacGyldren will have power of attorney to act in the matter until my return.

Sincerely,

C. Colleen MacLeod
Navarra Farms

OOC: A few notes

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:19:26 GMT

People that have lived long lives have many stories to tell. Many of them about their own exploits or their memories. Such would be the case with a woman born in sixteenth century Europe. And to top it off, she remembers living another lifetime. I've always wanted to fill in pieces of Colleen's history. There have been various places established in her history as well as points in time, but few have been made into tangible form.

Some things that were documented:
She met her first love at 14. c.1533
She had her first child in 1535 at 16 - She was made to believe it was a stillbirth
April 1537 - her second child was born and kidnapped
December 1875 - Colorado territory somewhere near Pike's Peak.
In August 1888 - London
In the 1920's, she was traveling through the Middle East and Asia
In 1920, she was in India, somewhere near the Taj Mahal.
In 1922/1923, she was in Egypt. She was noted in play as having said the last time she had been to Cairo was when Carter was digging in "The Valley" meaning the Valley of the Kings.
In October 1996, she was in London
In November 1996 she was in Colorado.

One of these days, I'll get around to making a proper timeline and piece together stories. In the meantime, I'm looking for a bit of inspiration. Has any particular place or event that has been mentioned by Colleen or Kirin in play caught your interest? It's possible that those snippets might be worthy of expansion. Feel free to drop more than one idea out for view!

Meals on Wheels (Riverview Clinic)

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:33:23 GMT

What had she been thinking? Delivering special meals to a hospital that already had a fully stocked and staffed cafeteria? Crazy, that's what it was! Or was it? Helping out an old friend, that's what she told herself it was. But was it really?

After years and years of maybe, maybe not, someday, never, on again, off again, Colleen was tired, worn, and lost. She needed change and maybe doing volunteer work of some sort would fill the gaps that had begun to open. She had plenty of things to do on the farm, but her children had slowly taken over one job or other. To lighten the load, so they said. The four oldest had found their places in the world. Chrisy was back and forth from Eldicor, but the boys found their places in the family businesses. The other children from nearly seventeen year old Garrick right on down to four year old Mir had lessons during the day. While she took an active part in her children's education, field trips, swordsmanship, equitation, and language studies, there was much she left to the professionals.

And so, she found herself bringing in meals for Riverview Clinic's Chief of Staff and the Director of Administration. Anya and Ali were often overworked. Colleen had seen the effects of forgetting to eat on many people. If Ali forgot, the wheels would turn slowly for the needs of the hospital in general. Anya, on the other hand, literally had lives in her hands. She had prepared simple things for lunches; salads, soups, and hot sandwiches. Dinners were a bit more elaborate. She was in day five, Friday, of her experiment and dinner for the evening was a Caesar salad, lasagne made with rich cheeses and ground beef and garlic bread on the side. She topped it off with dessert. What else besides something she often specialized in? Chocolate and in this case, chocolate mousse. Once that was delivered, she could begin planning the next week's fare.

On her way out, she couldn't resist, Collie stopped by the nursery to admire the newborns. She heard the oohing and aahing of the family and friends as they peeked in at their particular favorite. Something inside her felt that pull, that need to hold a tiny new life, but she had plenty of her own children. As she pulled away, she felt a sense of emptiness, a sense of loss. She muttered under her breath about getting back to the business at hand and getting her head out of the clouds, but she always had been a dreamer and part of a dream.

The rumor mill had been buzzing at the Red Dragon that for the first time in years, Colleen MacLeod might just have a date for Valentine's Day. She thought about putting money on the opposing side, but decided to let fate go where it would.

The Remembrance Book 7

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:38:13 GMT

27 Bitewind 1277

It has been nearly a full cycle since I set pen to paper. I have been busy preparing for your arrival, Bug. It is not an easy task!

I have drawn rough plans of the house I would like to see built in the hills just outside the city. I keep changing or adding things. I must make the final decisions by the time spring comes. Your papa asked me if the house would be done before you are big enough to play in a swing he's going to make for you.

With Kai's (that is your Papa's best friend) help, I was able to deliver wonderful news. It seems your grandfather is quite alive. Word is to be sent to him that his long missing child, your father, is alive and well. It is my hope that he will be able to come here. If your father must travel to him, you and I would have to remain behind until after your birth. Portal travel could be rather risky for us until then.

By the time you are ready to learn to ride, Saoirse's foal will have been born and be ready to be broken to the saddle. I expect that her foal will be just as a lively as the colt that came from the same sire, Mudge. That's short for Curmudgeon. I suppose that he must have mellowed in his older years since I have not found him to bad tempered. Then again, a horse that I think of as filled with fire and spirit, someone else would call foul tempered. It is, I suppose, a matter of perspective. I get along rather well with Roscoe, too. Termagant, also called Ant, on the hand, is another matter entirely. She is standoffish and fussy in comparison to the other two. However, she is female and sometimes acts as though I am stealing her stallion from her!

Ghosts of the Past 1

Sat, 10 Jan 2009 03:31:14 GMT

The eyes of a child, see a long long way
See the future, see the past
They see everything, first and last
--- My Heart's Home (Drover's Run)

Dani and Kai as well as a contingent of soldiers had accompanied Kirin to the cottage. Once they left, she went outside to chop some firewood. She didn't really need any, but she did need to work off the frustration she was feeling. It wasn't like Will to leave Dreven without some sort of word. There it was, Kai said he'd left on patrol, but he didn't know for how long. Kirin refused the offer to find out. If he had wanted her to know, he would have told her. It meant only one thing, Will need to think, but about what?

As the axe split the wood, her mind drifted to the heart of the conversation that had happened barely an hour before. They were discussing searching for Will's father.

"You both know him better than I do. He just doesn't strike me as a man who enjoys shocking surprises," Dani said.

"Wouldn't be a shock if it was something he wanted, would it?" Kai countered.

"Kai? What would most fathers do if they discovered that their son had a child out of wedlock?"

Kirin was quiet for a moment as she drank her wine. "Truth is, we have talked about it. About him going to find them." She winced a bit as the baby pushed a hand or foot into her ribs. "Not long after we found out about Bug." She nodded to Dani. "And that is my concern." She wasn't really concerned about whether or not the baby she carried was born out of wedlock; she'd done that before. What bothered her was that Will already had plenty of worries without being subjected to that sort of questioning.

"If you two are planning on getting married, I would do it before his father showed up. Otherwise, his father may well insist on it."

When Kai's mouth tightened in response to Dani's comment. Kirin realized that the words had struck a nerve and a sensitive one.

"Last thing Will needs is someone, anyone, asking we aren't..." she shook her head, "I don't think so," her voice had become barely audible.

Dani glanced over to Kai, an apologetic look on her face.

"I think," he said carefully, "that the matter of Will and Kirin's relationship is a lot less critical than the fact that this may very well be the last time Will gets to see his father. Presuming he's still alive."

"Which is why I don't think it would be a good idea to surprise him with it. Let him prepare himself."

"Which is why," she looked to Dani, "I suggested leaving me out of the equation until Will could see his father first."

Lady Streylan nodded. "Let him prepare his father as well. Any idea if his mother is still alive?"

"No, she isn't. Will has already lost one parent, and unless she walks in his dreams or something, he'll never see her again," the faery murmured. She had walked in Will's dreams, but hadn't encountered his mother. At least not yet. She wondered if trying to call her into them would help.

"I suppose it would be helpful to first locate his father and see if he still lives."

"Bringing him here is one thing. Whether Will decides to take it further than that is up to him, and neither of us -- " he nodded at Kirin, "would presume to tell him what to do."

"We know better. It's a good way to get socked in the jaw or turned over a knee!" An amused smile flickered on the redhead's lips.

The discussion turned to Vittal and family relationships. Will had had no contact with his family since before the Klocks had come to power. His father would have a grandson to meet. It had become clear to Kirin that both she and Kai would give what they could to see family that has passed on. She also learned why Dani was such an attentive mother to her children; she wanted better for them than what she had. Things were settled, Kai would seek out Raymond Lexington or word of him if he was no longer living.

As the axe split the next log, Kirin frowned. She knew why Will had suddenly gone off on patrol. He needed time to think, to consider recent events. To reconsider ... a name.

Yearpass Day 1277

"You know, I've been meaning to ask something and this is as good a time as any." She gestured to the sofa. "You might want to sit down."

"And what is that, Vex?"

Kirin took a seat. She was sure he knew it was a distraction, he wouldn't be a good commander if he didn't see through that sort of thing. "Well, once again, you neatly evaded the topic of turning me town," at first she teased him. In a minute, she cleared her throat and got serious, "But this is important to me. Probably to both of us."

He braced himself with a careful breath and sat down next to her. "Go on."

She looked at him and her hand closed over his once again. What Kirin was about to ask probably wasn't what Will was expecting to hear. Marriage was something she tended to discuss with him in jest. She'd been around that block three times and had told herself never again. "As you know, I'm still learning the customs, traditions and social protocols here."

He nodded, watching her face and schooling himself to deliberate neutrality.

"In most places that I have traveled, a child of unmarried parents generally carries the mother's surname unless other arrangements are made." She took a breath, looked down at their hands then looked up to see Will's face. "I want to know what your wishes are on the matter." Kirin was fairly sure that she knew the answer, but was certain it had to be an easier subject than marriage, which is what she figured Will had been expecting.

Will's mouth tightened, then slowly relaxed. "Either is fine."

The expression on his face gave her another message entirely. She couldn't look him in the eye, so, she closed her eyes and lowered her head. "Is it?" her question was barely a whisper. She started to let go of his hand.

"Give him your name," he said quietly.

That cut her more deeper than any weapon ever could have, but it was the practiced mask of court that looked back at Will when she answered, "As you like." She rarely hid her emotions from him. A few minutes of silence ticked by before she said anything else. "I need to look in on Saoirse. She's not eating as well as she should be."

"What would you have me do, Kirin?"

The mask faded into a somewhat confused expression then she shook her head. "Nothing," she murmured, "I said would not push you and I can still keep my word on that." She stood up.

He, too, got to his feet. "Would you give him my name?"

"It does not stop me from feeling disappointed that ..." That should have given him answer, but she stopped and nodded. "I would have, yes, but you have just asked me not to." It occurred to her that she'd asked the question all wrong; she wasn't used to asking permission.

Will was silent, the brown of his eyes dark and his expression ... careful. "Then give him mine."

"Thank you," she whispered. She leaned in to kiss him, but some part of her expect him to turn away.

He returned the kiss, but his brows were drawn.

As she watched his face, she thought of several things to say, but she couldn't say anything so hurtful; she just couldn't lash out at him that way. There had been enough pain and anger on both sides and in their past. Even if it was for a flicker of an instant, she had felt like he'd denied their child. The only thing that came out was, "I'm sorry. I just... We'll name him whatever you like. We'll call him Pelican if you want." A ghost of a smile flickered across her face, but heaven forbid he actually called her bluff on that!

"You just what?"

While Kirin had a flash temper, she was not known for breaking into tears at the drop of a hat. Being pregnant changed all the rules and she never liked not being in control of her own emotions. She managed not to cry, yet, but she felt it coming. "I just don't know what to think anymore!" She tossed her hands up.

"What to think?" he echoed. "What has changed?"

"What's changed?" She looked down at her belly then back to him. "Nothing, everything!"

"That isn't something new in the last hour."

She brought her fingers up to her face. She could no longer hide the liquid that had pooled in her eyes. "You never said when!" Her lip quivered like like a small child's. Poor Will, he was looking into the pouty face that could be an older version of their child if it was a girl.

Will clenched his teeth together. "I am trying to figure out what has you wondering what to thing. An hour ago -- a tenday ago! -- you were happy. Now you are not. I do not have any arguments about whether the child bears your name or mine. Is that it?"

"Who said I'm not happy?? I'm confused!!" She poked him in the chest. "I don't understand why you changed your mind, but maybe I was just misunderstanding when you said pick what I like."

"You're crying."

She pointedly ignored his remark. "And I want very much to give you an answer about twins, son or daughter, but I can't! It's frustrating me to no end!!" Kirin muttered something about tangled up magic.

Will stared at her. "Kirin, people all over the place go through pregnancies without knowing the answers to those questions. It is rare, in fact, when they do. We'll handle it."

"I'm not used to not knowing!" She looked up at him. "I'm not used to feeling just physical movement. I'm used to being in touch with whoever is in there!"

His brows furrowed a little further. "And you feel -- what? Blind?"

"Something like that, yes. Let me put it in a way ... " She was trying think of something Will could relate to, then it hit her like an avalanche. "Remember how frustrated you felt when you were confined to bed for a while? And you just wanted to get back to being in your normal daily routine?"

"Yes."

She knew very well that accident wasn't something he'd easily forget. "It's like that." She reached to wrap her arms around him. "I can live without using most of my abilities. Here, the worst thing the ears generally get me is distrusted and calls of 'Outlander' providing I break no laws." She inhaled sharply and turned her head like a bird listening for a worm. She smiled and murmured, "Yes, I know you're there." She looked up to Will and back down. "We know you're there. " She took another cleansing breath. "It frightens me to not know. It bothers me to have to depend on Hannah or Kai to tell me what I should be able to feel. Does that make better sense to you than 'I just don't know?' "

"Like losing one of your senses. Yes, that helps." He drew in a breath and let it out. "That's how it will always be here, isn't it?"

That sharp breath was very telling to Kirin. Much as she had to readjust to things in Shadokhan, Will had been making allowances for some of her ways. "For the most part, yes." She reached up with one hand to caress his cheek. "I dealt with it rather well until I discovered I was carrying our child. I need you to help me through this just like I tried to help you when ... " She let that trail off. She remembered demanding people not let Will climb stairs on his crutches, but that was pretty much the only thing she'd insisted on once he was up and moving.

He nodded slowly. "What can I do?"

"Remind me of what I still can do." She moved her hand up under her ribs and chuckled. "Yes, you, too." She laughed softly. "I swear, he thinks he can use my ribs as a xylophone!" For a moment, she considered whether or not a child's toy to that was a commonplace thing to her was even known in Will's world.

"Is that another reason why you don't like me ... spoiling you?"

"Oh, I enjoy the spoiling, I just don't want to get lazy."

Will looked disbelieving. "As if that would ever happen."

"You know, I can feel his heartbeat. Or hers." She smiled, an impish twinkle in her eyes. That was going to be a running thing between them, maybe even after the baby arrived! "I have to keep reminding myself that I can do that and as long as I can, I know he's alive. That is all I really need to know." She avoided going to go into the downside of that ability.

"You can feel his heartbeat?"

"It's almost like putting a glass to a wall and being able to hear people on the other side of it."

"That seems pretty special to me."

"I'm so used to being able to do the complicated things that I forget the simple ones." Regret, that was was she was feeling.

"You still want that simple walk?"

And walk, they did.

In the past year, he had told her about a woman he once loved. A woman that was not his wife. The most enlightening revelation began with, "We called her Izzy." Isobel Lexington, Will's firstborn, was all of five years old when she perished in a fire along with her mother and brother. That tiny bit information meant so much and it explained so much. He lost everyone that meant to most to him in one fell swoop. It was no wonder that he had no desire to have children with Kirin or anyone else. He feared living through that pain, that horror, again. Who wouldn't? And if he could see them again, what would he do? What would he say?

A Year Gone By

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:16:13 GMT

There should be more to this, but somewhere in the middle, I got sidetracked! I want to try telling part of their story in flashbacks, but it's not working just yet.

The day after Yearpass, Kirin was barefoot and had a heavy woolen shawl draped over her shoulders as she stood in the kitchen doorway. It wasn't exactly practical to be running about without shoes in the dead of winter, but her feet and ankles had begun to swell from time to time. It was common in the last phase of pregnancy and Kirin coped, much as she did with everything, in her own way.

She watched in silence as Will prepared to return to Fort Ubolutiin. She always felt a bit lost in those moments, especially after they'd spent days together holed up in the cottage. It was good to have him all to herself for a while, but the faery knew that her knight had to leave eventually. It was just how things were and she'd come to accept it. She had long since adjusted to the fact that duty to the Silver Moon Knights came before everything else.

She had teased Will about not asking him to marry her because she knew he would turn her down. The simple truth was Kirin knew that marriage was not a likely prospect. They were happy with what they had. What was the sense in ruining it just draw up legal documents or satisfy someone else's sensibilities?

Her mind drifted through the events of the past year. Broken bones had mended. They had shared much of their pasts with each other, joys and sorrows. And then there was Bug, who had caused nearly every emotion in the spectrum to rise in both of his parents. Given that neither of them had expected to be having a child in so late in their lives, Kirin and Will accepted what was to come ... eventually.

The Remembrance Book 6

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 07:48:44 GMT

29 Chillset 1276

Preparations for Earthfreeze and Yearpass have been made. Here, this is an ordinary day, but in my homeland, it is a day of celebrations. It is not unlike Yearpass in that gifts are exchanged with family and friends. It is a celebration that is both sacred and secular. The winter solstice, Christmas, Yuletide season and Hogmanay, which is not to be confused with tales about the Hogfather, are rich in traditions.

Many of the other traditions deal in preparing certain foods, decorating in certain manners, or simply enjoying the companionship of those we care about. Be wary of those that dangle pieces of mistletoe over your head during this time of year! While it is not common here, it is the custom of folk in my homeland to kiss the person standing under the mistletoe. Many a lad or lass has found a sweetheart in this manner. So, be wary that you do not find yourself kissing someone that you would rather not!

Under normal circumstances, I would have been there on the winter solstice to see the sunrise at a place where my people have gathered for centuries. But I do not plan anymore trips through the portal until you are safely out of my belly, my little Bug. With the shift of time that occurs in my travels, I do not wish to find myself in labor without your papa nearby. Kai keeps teasing him that you are twins. I must wonder now if he is right or if you are simply going to be a strapping lad right from the start! Then again, you could be a very tall lass like several of your sisters.

I could not wait any longer to give your father his Yearpass gift. Truth be told, the cat let itself out of the bag. Or should I say, the horse let himself out of the stable? Something like that! The pleased look on Will's face was well worth all the fussing over getting that long legged colt here. When I teased him and asked if he wanted me to exchange him, he said no. Maybe, now that he's seen this as yet unnamed handsome horse, he has forgiven me for stealing Mudge. I suppose that I should have waited for Saoirse's foal to be born, but that one will eventually be yours. Her name, which is spoken as "seer-sha," means freedom. In a way, she represents the freedom of her kind.

One day, I shall share my grandfather's stories with you. It was said that he kissed the Blarney Stone, also called the Stone of Eloquence, and in doing such was given the gift of gab. He's was quite the bard, my dear Daideó. He could spin a yarn to captivate the mind and waken the imagination. He could play a fiddle in the fast jigs or sweetest lullabies that one might ever hear. That, however, was from practice and a bit of faery magic.

The Stone of Eloquence, my child, is a part of your heritage in more ways than having family members that have kissed it. Those people could sell sand to the tribes in Thermador, ice to the folk in North Oceanuus in winter, and trees to Tequin up in Arboria! In short, they don't just shovel the verbal manure with the best of them; they ARE the best of them! The stone was once part of larger one, it was a reward for service rendered to Roibert a Briuis (in the Common Language, Robert the Bruce).

I have much work to do while while confined in the cottage for the better part of Earthfreeze, the baking of pies with last full barrel of apples. And there will be no brooking of arguments up at the fort regarding sweets for Yearpass!

The Remembrance Book 5

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 13:58:36 GMT

19 Goldfall 1276, Mooncalling

And so, my little one, if I had a wish for you right now it would be that you do not inherit my ears. No, not my hearing, that might serve you very well. The shape of my ears is different than that of elves born here. In not having my ears, you would not be openly and forever marked as an outlander or as the child of one.

Sadly, hatred and prejudice exist in many forms. While I understand the fear of the unknown, I never have understood hating a person because of something they cannot control. The color of one's skin and shape of any given physical feature are things determined long before one is born. Magical gifts or other inborn abilities are often determined long before they show themselves. Yet, people consider this not when pointing fingers at 'evil' mages. Those that get the worst of that mindset are necromancers. It is presumed by some that they are evil because they have the potential to use their spells and such to kill. To some, death can be a mercy, an easing of long suffering. It not always wise to take on the responsibility for such a decision. To take a life, my child, no matter the circumstances, will live in your mind and heart forever. To people of conscience, killing is not done without a great price.

Note this well, hatred and prejudice are often caused by fear, ignorance and arrogance. In a battle of weapons, never make the mistake of underestimating the strength and skill of your opponents. Never underestimate their desire to win. This cause could you grievous injury or cost you your life.

In a battle of wits, never underestimate the guile or intelligence of your opponent. This could leave you looking quite foolish. So I offer you this for your consideration. When standing next to your pointed eared mother or any other being that appears to be Elven, do not speak any words at any sound level, do not whisper, do not mumble, anything you do not want heard. You see, my child, such creatures as us have been known to hear the soft noise from the shifting of wings of a bird making its way overhead. The speech matters not for there is always someone that can translate for you. That is why your brothers and sisters have learned several languages.

Sometimes, it is better to remain quiet and seem to be ignorant of the talk going on around you. People will think you do not understand the subject or the language and continue to go onward with their dealings. It may seem dishonest, but one need not always answer a question that was not asked. I know that all too well, therefore, I shall always ask you.

By now, word of the fuss over the runes at the Crosswinds will have reached your papa. And of the pointy eared redheaded outlander upstart that started the so called stand off.

The Remembrance Book 4

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 07:26:41 GMT

14 Goldfall 1276

I have a few plans for tomorrow, my little one. Preparing a quiet dinner and baking a chocolate cake are the main tasks of the day. Chocolate is considered somewhat of a delicacy here. I promised your papa that he would have cake for his birthing day and cake he will have. He does not care for large celebrations at least not for himself. I'm not sure why, but I suppose it has something to do with wanting some privacy after being among his troops all day and often for days at a time.

A nice quiet ride would do us both some good, I think. We have had much on our minds of late. Above all, we are determined to keep you safe. I am determined that you will be born here. Like most mothers, I want what is best for my children. What is best for you, Bug, is to grow up here where your father is.

If you are a girl, your papa has promised to teach to swear and spit. I think that you should hold him to that! One day you will be able to read this for yourself. I hope you will learn something from these words even if we are not here to teach you. You should know that your father worries that he might not be around to see you grow up. I gave him a journal with an owl on its cover. It is his birth sign among my people. Perhaps, he will record something there for you as I have done here.

The Irish, my child, are a superstitious lot. We believe in things that many do not. Many believe in what they call the Little People, but have never seen one. What some folk do not realize is that some of the wee folk are far from little or wee! This is called faith. The belief in what you have never seen, but believe it to be real. Faith comes in many forms. Faith is what you should have in someone you love. While they cannot solve all things, they give you comfort when you feel as though the rest of the world has let you down. That is the sort of faith that I have in Will.

I am wondering who you will look like. The odds are that you will not have my pointed ears. My dreams say brown eyed blonde boy or brown eyed red haired girl. Time will tell.

Before I forget, I better get off and buy a bottle of Duram. He'll want that, too!

The Remembrance Book 3

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:30:53 GMT

5 Goldfall 1276

There is holiday of sorts coming called Mooncalling. It is a time, much like Samhain ( that is said sow-in where I grew up) when the veil between the living world and other planes is thin and easily crossed. Many believe that it is only souls of the dead that walk at that time. However, some do not consider the souls yet to come. While people disagree on when a soul enters a body, most do not argue the existence of such a thing. Some call it a person's essence. No matter what name it is given, I wonder if on that day, people can see those that are yet to come as well as those that have gone onward.

In Ireland, Samhain is the festival to mark the end of the harvest and the beginning of a new year. It can be both joyous and solemn. It is a time to look toward what will be as well as to reflect on what once was.

And what can I tell you of myself? I am the elder and remaining half of a pair of twin sisters. It is an odd thing to have someone that is that close to you. Someone that has, among other things, a special language with you. It is a bond that is hard to sever. Even years after crossing, she still comes into my dreams.

My father, your grandfather, made his coin in the business of transporting goods. Some by wagon, some by boat or small ships. The use of ships, I suppose, is why so many now refer to it as shipping.

I have often wondered how Da, a Scotsman, came to meet and marry an Irish colleen (that means girl) with all that water between them. By the the time I was old enough to realize that such was not common occurrence, they had both crossed from the living world. My sister and I had gone to live with our grandfather, Mam's father, after she passed. While we dearly loved Daideó, we had wondered if we had done something wrong that our father no longer wished us to be around him. We had done nothing wrong, but it pained our dear father to see the living reminders of his beloved wife and a third child that he never got to know. Daideó told us that that Da had left the world with a broken heart. I did not understand then but I do now. One day, you will, too.

I look forward to your birth, but mostly, I look forward to seeing your father's face the first time he holds you.

The Remembrance Book 2

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:08:21 GMT

30 Moonshare 1276

Tomorrow begins the cycle of Goldfall. Mark it well. Both your father and I celebrate our birthing days in that cycle, within days of each other. Know that he doesn't like a lot of fuss and fanfare to mark the day. Keep things simple.

I expect that you will be stubborn. Given your parentage, it will be hard for you to escape that trait. Your father and I have been known to be about stubborn as pair of bears digging their paws into a beehive for honey while the hive is full. Or maybe a pair of mules somehow trying to turn the world in the other direction! Yes, stubborn, that I expect and prepare for.

Will, that's your papa, has promised to carve a wooden sword for you. I expect that you will have many lessons with it before taking up a steel one. Maybe, one day, you follow in his footsteps and those of your brother, Vittal, and become a Silver Moon Knight. It is not a job to be taken lightly, they bear a great responsibility to people of what was once the Silver Moon Empire. That history is something for one of them to explain.

You have many brothers and sisters, but Vittal is likely to be the only one you will meet. The others live far away. Never fear, Bug, you will have plenty of company especially if there is another child sharing the womb with you. I do not not know Vittal feels about having a younger brother or sister. I suppose that is something you will discover in your own time.

Cycles ago, I dreamed about being given a cradle as a gift. At the time we thought it was just a dream, but somehow, I think it was a message that you would be coming along. Now, I must wonder if that dream will come true.

Firelight - The Remembrance Book

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 07:30:10 GMT

Being wrapped up in Will's arms was one of the most wonderful sensations she'd ever known. In years to come, she would tell their child, maybe their children, about sleeping in front of the fire and how their father seemed to make all the troubles in the world disappear. Kirin liked to watch the firelight dancing on his sun browned skin. Mostly, she loved to watch his eyes when he was contemplating mischief. Proprieties were observed in public, but when the pair was alone touches and kisses would land as they liked.

Life was not always sweetness and light, they had their share of heated discussions. All it took was one reminder that just because he got angry didn't mean he was going to leave. Somehow, it made things better, neither was walking on tiptoe or stepping through eggshells. They were too set in their own ways to change. The knight and the faery worked through their differences, together.

She had begun to write a journal in the Common language of Hyathis. It was good practice. Eventually, Bug, as the forthcoming baby was now dubbed, would need to learn it. How would it look if his mother could not teach him? She didn't hide the book, it was kept on her dressing table. Sometimes, she reverted to using words in her native Irish when she couldn't find an appropriate one in the Common tongue. Mostly, it was remembrance book to be passed along.

25 Moonshare 1276

Mo chroí, she began in her native Irish, is a phrase you will come to hear often, my child. It means 'my heart' in the language spoken where I was born. Grá mo chroí, 'love of my heart,' is an endearment that I bestowed on your father. When I came here, looking for what I'm not so sure, the last thing I had expected was to fall in love and be blessed with the gift of a new life. As I write this, you are nearly five cycles grown in my womb. What can I tell you of us? Of who you come from? Know that while your coming was unexpected, you are very much wanted and loved.

You come from farmers, healers, warriors, nobility and so much more. You come from good stock, Bug. Bug is your name of the cycle, last one it was Chubbie. Ask your Papa about that some time since it was his idea! When you are born, if you are a son, it's planned that you'll be called Raymond Daniel after your grandfather and uncle. If you are a daughter, you might be called Lark, but that's not quite decided. I tease your Papa from time to time about having twins in my belly. He fires right back with the possibility of more than you coming along at a later time.

I am sure, over time, that you will have your own set of names for each of us. You should know that one of the things brought us together was our odd sense of humor. He's Quirky and I'm Vex, you are likely to hear those names as often as you will Irish! Your parents are shameless flirts, but don't let that embarrass you.

If I were to share a piece of advice, it would be to always be yourself. Perhaps, I should explain that at a later time, but it's rather simple. Anyone that truly loves you will take you as you are. If they begin to change you, you will no longer be the person they love. Mind you, that is not to be used as an excuse to get out of your school lessons!

Kirin set down the quill and murmured, "It's a start."

Autumn Memories (Colleen)

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:29:58 GMT

Not sure where this is headed yet, needed to get it out of my head to move along.

During her lifetime, Colleen had filled many roles. The one that had given her the most joy was that of mother. While she'd often been criticized for the size of her brood. Her responding argument was often that her children were better cared for than those of parents with a single child to look after.

Each of her children was different, special as she put it. Isn't that what most mothers think? Not all were musical inclined or magically gifted, but each of Collie's children had been encouraged to follow their dream. They might not have as many years as she had to explore the wonders of life around them. There was much that she had yet to tell them, so much more for them to learn.

In autumn, it was her custom to celebrate a good harvest and the bounty of blessings that been bestowed on the family and those the worked on the farm in the previous year. In a clearing well away from the precious woodlands, a cooking fire or two had been started earlier in the day. Once the sun had begun to set, the bonfire was set. Music and laughter filled the air.

The celebration was also a reminder that another year of life would soon be celebrated, another birthday. In ten years time, she would begin her sixth century of life. She hoped to mark it well.

Bertie Goes a Dating (Harker's Island)

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 07:25:16 GMT

From the fuss that was rising in one of the upstairs rooms, one might have thought that Mairead Harker had gotten into some sort of mischief! However, it was her godfather that was the center of attention.

"Let me straighten that," said Rhi as she adjusted Bertie's tie.

"You going to zip up or do I have do that for you?" Dennis asked as he upnodded to Bertie's trousers.

"Bloody hell, Denny, you'll get something caught in it if I leave it to you!" Bertie grumbled.

A bright eyed Maggie peeked into the bedroom and giggled. The fuss her parents were making over Uncle Bertie reminded her of the last time family pictures were taken. The little one tossed her second best plushie, a pink elephant, into the mix. At the sound of her daughter's laughter, Rhiannon turned to look. She started to laugh right along when she realized what a sight they must have been to the precocious two year old.

The wee imp had snatched up one of Bertie's shoes and ran off to her own room! Her squeals of delight at having put one over on the grown ups rang out in the hall. She started to crawl under her bed and found the younger of the Collies blocking her path. "Move, Rassel!" She commanded the dog.

Rascal licked her face and nuzzled her. Smelled and tasted like a Maggie to him, so he moved out of her way. Once Maggie had crawled under, the dog went back to minding the room and temporary foiling the adults from finding his young charge.

What Does a Woman Know - Part 11 (Kirin)

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 08:50:47 GMT

The noon sun filtered through the trees that shielded the pond behind Kirin's cottage. It was quiet save for the singing of the birds as Kirin dangled her feet into the water. She had her eyes closed and, to the casual observer, seemed lost in thought. The faery smiled to herself when she heard the cracking of a branch nearby. It was a soft musical voice grumbling in irritation that identified her visitor.

Kirin tried not to break into laughter, but hints of it filtered into her words. "You will never make a good tracker if you continue to announce yourself like that, Limelenath," Kirin whispered before looking over her shoulder.

The willowy teenager settled cross legged on the small shore next to her grandmother. "You probably smelled me before you heard me," Limele laughed. She was about fifteen with long black hair and slate blue eyes. Her ears marked her as having been descended from an elven or faery race. In truth, it was both.

"Well, you do smell of heather. It's not common around here and there's likely only one person besides me that would know that odor," Kirin countered. "So, you've come to visit your old Gran, have you?" Her eyes sparkled as imps danced in them. She studied the features of one of her second generation offspring and raised a slender brow. "You are up to something, aren't you, my girl?" Kirin asked in a mildly accusing tone.

"What, a girl can't visit her Gran without being subjected to an inquest?" Limele retorted with mock indignation.

The faery tossed her head back and chuckled huskily. "Oh, taking lessons from your dear mother, are you?"

"Well," she paused to consider her words, "why not, someone has to attend to the family's legal matters!"

"True, true," Kirin murmured as she brushed the black hair out of the girl's eyes.

Talking with her grandchildren brought back memories of her own youth as well as that of their parents. It had been long ago when her own children were little and needed her. And here was the oldest of her granddaughters nearly grown. What else to talk to her Gran about? Horses, boys, and how to get along in the world when she was grown. Kirin had plenty of advice for Limele about horses and getting along in life, but that last one just made her forehead furrow. It was a recent conversation with Will that made her reconsider her own experience with men.

"It's rather sad, isn't it?" Kirin rested her head against Will's chest.

"How can you possibly have lived for so long and had no one romancing you? No one?" To Kirin's ear, he sounded annoyed.

"Oh, I don't know." She almost shrugged, but remembered the bruises raising on her shoulder. "I suppose they wanted to get married and legalize the sex in a pretty package. It's romantic to have someone hold your hand at the table and not expect you to be climbing under it to.. well... you get the idea."

"I suspect that since you haven't-- " He paused. "You haven't led a sheltered life, have you? Tucked away for most of it in your fancy ... estate?"

"No, I haven't been sheltered since I was a wee slip of a thing under my grandfather's watchful eye."

In looking back, though, she began to question things. She remembered having a man come to her rescue only twice in her lifetime. Three, if one counted the quick run to the altar the first time around. Perhaps, when it came to men, she had been somewhat naive. Kirin had always wanted to believe the best of people, but she had learned years ago, however, that handsome princes only came riding up on white chargers to rescue the fair maiden in fairy tales.

"Gran?" Limele spoke softly as she noticed Kirin's distraction. "What do you think?"

"Hm? Sorry, lass. I was miles away."

"Do you think I should come and stay with you?"

"I think your parents might object. However, they might allow you to come to visit from time to time."

"Do you think I might see those people again, Gran?"

"Which people, mavourneen?"

"The ones from the party," Limele sounded as if she was questioning her grandmother's sanity. "You know, the ones my age?"

That's what it was all about! Kirin had been so lost in her own thoughts that she missed a large signal. Maybe it was a warning sign. That's why the talk of what to do in future. That's why she asked about coming to stay, the younger folk. Kirin dragged a hand down her face and muttered, "Ah, so I was right! You are up to something!"

It seemed odd to hear such things coming from Limele, she had always been the shy one. It was Mairead, Kirin's second granddaughter that had always been the outgoing and nearly fearless one. Was it possible that the shy little girl that once held tight to one of her parents' or her grandmothers' hands was finally coming out of her shell?

Kirin rose to her feet and offered Limele a hand up. "Come on, you, give me a hand feeding the animals, will you?" Kirin asked before heading to the other side of the cottage. Braiding her hair, Limele followed.

Horses were the life's blood of Kirin's ancestors. The half-elven teenager was the sixteenth generation of the line. Kirin often told her children that it was the horses that ensured that food was on the table. Each had taken part in the daily care of their own animal. Limele was no different in that respect. She had helped to look after her own horse since she was five. Kirin had fond memories of watching the younger children standing on wooden blocks to brush down their mounts.

Limelenath recognized Saoirse, the black mare, as one of her grandmother's horses. Her blue eyes went wide as she realized what she was looking at. "Gran, she's one of the Dubh Laoch mares, isn't she?"

"Yes," said Kirin as she stroked the side of the mare's neck. "The stallions are few and far between."

Limele watched the bay Degar that wandered the corral. "He doesn't look like tolerates strangers well," she commented. Despite her quiet nature, the girl often had her silly moments. Her study of the animal was done while dangling upside down from the top railing of the fence. "Definitely NOT a gelding."

Kirin snorted in such a manner that Mudge seemed to answer her. She laughed. "Yes, you're right, she is a silly Elf!"

Limele held onto the railing and dropped to a standing position. "You bringing other mares to him, Gran?" Limele's head tilted as she asked the question. "What kind of brand is that anyway?"

The faery held up one finger for Limele to wait a moment as she got hold of Mudge. "It's the brand of the Silver Moon Knights," Kirin finally answered. "Now, get inside and get the water buckets. Don't let that black stallion bully you! No matter how much he postures, he cannot get gates open."

"Gran," she muttered as she hauled the empty buckets from the stable, "what about the mares?"

"It was easier to take him to them." Kirin smiled wryly.

Anyone Have a Title?

Sat, 08 Mar 2008 06:59:10 GMT

Something I'm working on ...

When the sun rose, the posturing and carrying on of Phinn and the Mallorys had long faded into the previous night. Something wasn’t right with Phinn. As for Duncan and Cate, they were bickering over foolishness. Couldn’t Cate see what her talk of the killer using slow torture on her was doing to her husband? Was she that blind? Or was she that foolish? Or was it that Kirin had a deeper understanding of Duncan’s nature? It was going to drive the man back to the bottle. If it didn’t, it was going to drive the fey to take matters into her own hands. Enough was enough! They were going on like two children that needed to be turned over a knee! Luckily for them, the faery was tipsy and wasn’t about to grab Duncan by the ear and haul him off to Streylan. That could have been amusing. “You’re dragging me out of bed to hunt it, now?”

The mind could be a foggy thing when it first stirred in the morning. When Kirin awoke with a decidedly male form next to her she started to wonder if she had done something to regret. Gods, she'd been drunk! She hadn't binged that badly in a long time. It was one of the two ways she knew to quell the urge to strangle someone. From the look of things, she’d done the other as well. She was almost afraid to open her eyes.

What in the name of Andraste had she hauled home? No, not what, who? And for that matter, where exactly was she? Had she been the one hauled? Please don’t let me have gone back home and tumbled into bed with … oh, hells no, not him! Please, not that! And Danu, please, not that pointy eared bard… crickey not that one, please! She was silently pleading with her own goddess that disaster wasn’t on the horizon. The way her luck had gone the last few days, Kirin was certain that fate was determined to play a few more tricks on her before it was all said and done.

Her head resting against his chest, she stayed still a moment as she listened to the man’s heartbeat. The strong arms that enfolded her were wrapping her up tightly. Had he been drunk, too? Could he have been wondering the same things that she was in those moments? Who is this next to me and please let me at least remember the right name! That was when it hit her, Goddess, yes, he smells of horse and sweat! A hint of mint oil! Kirin’s fingers began to trace the outline of his chest muscles; that terrain felt as familiar as the scents teasing her nose. When her fingers moved lower and rested on his thigh, her heart skipped a beat. She knew that scar, it happened at the same place where her lungs had been filled with the acrid stench of seared and charred flesh. She knew it as well as the birthmark on the back her of her right thigh. Praise be, it’s Will! Thank you, wait, what’s the name of that goddess? Nostrella? Yes, that’s It! Thank you, Nostrella. Her own goddesses hadn’t failed her, but it surely could not hurt to praise the local one!

It had been a couple of minutes between the time she started to stir and reality setting in. What happened the night before might have been reckless and impetuous given her drunken state, but there were no regrets to be had. Were they really so unlikely a match, the knight and the faery princess? Not when one thought of him as an old warhorse and her as a wild old mare.

Heartchild (Kirin)

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:55:23 GMT

This is a part of story for LT started by Marissa's player.

To defend: this is the pact. But when life loses its meaning and is taken for naught, then the pact is to avenge! Heavy Metal

Anger. Rage. Kirin could only hold them in so long. She promised herself when the first of her daughters was slaughtered to never again allow it. To never again let anything or anyone to take the life of her child. She had not spoken of the girl in many years before she had come to Shadokhan. The faery would not speak her name; to do so would bring the memories of a failure that she had never forgiven. Forgiving one’s self was always the hardest.

Kirin felt helpless as Marissa slipped into the arms of a monster that she could not fight. Not here, not in this place. The sanctuary of home was the only answer; there, there would be a fighting chance. Marissa’s life had been entrusted not just to Kirin as mother, but also to an entire family that had embraced her as sister, aunt, and cousin. If a way could be found, they would keep the beast called Death at bay.

Rissa’s body was wrapped in a warm blanket and loaded into the cart that had been used for marketing in the city. Her lifeless form needed to be taken through the portal in the Crosswinds. Diana would see to things beyond that gateway. Kirin and Phinn would remain to settle accounts.

Only a few hours before, the tavern had been the site of joy and revelry. Kirin had delighted in drinking Arnoc with the Gideonn brothers and Xiph the bard. It amused her to see Bliss herding the pair of brother out to a waiting carriage when the night was waning. Something about it told Kirin that Bliss was going to be a wonderful mother.

A slight change of mood should have warned the fey woman that something was on the wind. Ric’s displeasure was clear when an Elven woman had come through the portal. For Kirin this was good and bad. Good that he seemed to not see the faery as a horrible evil elf and bad that his mood had been tainted. After watching the woman a while, Kirin could understand why the sheep farmer had a tendency to automatically be antisocial toward Elven people. If she was the norm and those she knew were exceptions, it explained a great deal. Despite Xiph’s invitation to join him and what seemed to be a known acquaintance, at the very least, Kirin eventually departed the tavern.

A check of the commons revealed all had departed for the night. With the pathway clear, mother, sister, and friend carried Marissa through the tavern. On the other side, two brothers had been awaiting word. Their sister’s body was not what they had hoped for. Marissa was safely away from the evil that that had been stalking women in Dreven, but the work had just begun for her mother.

Just outside the Crosswinds, a keening arose that could have put a banshee’s wail to shame; it shattered the silence of the night. No greater pain existed than what Kirin suffered. No grief was greater than that which was brought by the loss of a child.

Double Trouble and Then Some!

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 10:21:34 GMT

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Christmas Morning, 2007

By ten AM, the laboring was well under way to bring the newest of the Harker family into the world. Grandmother Colleen and Doctor Maranya Valkonan were a well matched team of midwife and doctor. It was understood that Rhiannon was in Anya's care unless disaster struck. The newborn children would be entrusted into their grandmother's hands upon arrival.

Bertie kept twenty-one month old Mairead busy with stories and games of peekaboo until she started getting restless. He was finally persuaded by Diana to take the little out to the stable to look over the horses. Eventually Star and Baron's progeny would be Maggie's very own four legged transportation. Diana took Rascal along as well. Riddle wouldn't be budged from the upstairs hallway, but he seemed wise to the idea that getting under foot could be harmful to Rhi.

Diana was not destined to take on the role of happy homemaker as some of her sisters seemed to be. She was, however, glad to lend a hand with her nieces and nephews. Dee understood why her mother seemed to delight in the role of grandmother even more than of mother. Spoil them and give them back seemed to be the battlecry! When noon came, Diana had three young nieces Limelenath, Mairead, and Catherine as well as four nephews, Nicolae, James, Jacen, and Richard. She pondered what nicknames would be tacked on the youngest girl of the clan, her brother's had been chosen some time ago.

Within an hour after the twins arrived, Mairead was taken to meet her siblings. She was wide eyed with wonder and delight! Oddly, Rhiannon found that her daughter, who looked small the day before, seemed huge in comparison to the small newborns. Maggie was chattering away, ooing and ahhing over the babies. Thankfully, it looked like jealousy wasn't going to be a problem.

Diana grinned as she looked Catherine over and turned to her mother.

"Mother," Diana said as she brushed a thumb against the soft cheek of the newborn girl, "did you notice her hair?"

In response, Collie lifted a few strands of her own hair and beamed. There was another redhead in the brood.