Re: Left Behind (CRP)

[Aayla]

She had heard him, over in her stupor of crawling, or to be clearer, heard an echo of him. “… sissy on 'er feet…or try a'least” There was a moment of feeling warm inside that her brother cared enough to help her, followed of course by the blind rage that was like a blanket she wrapped around herself to stop from caring too much. ‘No no, dun be bothering wit’me… I’s fiiiiine…” her best attempt at sarcasim came out more like a drunken slur. “I’s like’n it down’ere, think I might shtay awhile!” pushing herself to sitting she looked down at her skirts, her fishnet covered legs and boots showing more than she would normally allow. Grumbling she tried to straighten the mess but only managed to further muss it up. “Meh never did like dang shkirts.” Leaning back to offer herself a more objective view of the problem Aayla leans back quickly knocking her head rather violently on the seat of a nearby chair, the end effect being severe pain and a sort of screech of pain. “Eeeeouch! Tha chair jus bit me!” trying to check to see if she’s bleeding she ends up patting the side of her face until eventually finding the sore spot on the back of her head. “Bloody shammm roskshh that hurrrt!”

[Aayla]

Obli touched her chin lightly. By now, he was figuring out that she would most likely look up at him instead of hiding her captivating, heart melting green eyes. "A'igh', meh go get sissy righ'ed, but firs' ya a've t'tell meh whet ye was t'inkin'." He grinned knowingly at her. The feel of the two of them touching was still pulsating through him. He doubted if it would ever go away - and he hoped it didn't. It was as if his heart was bound to her, finding its resting place in joy of her touch.

He glanced back at his sister, wincing as she smacked her head against the chair. As their bond grew stronger over the days, months, years, it seemed like his ability to empathize with her became more real. He could almost feel a bit of the pain she felt. "Eh...meh sur' ye 'ave it Sissy, but meh be righ' t'ere in jes' a sec'nd all t'e same." He hid his disbelief from his voice. He turned his head back to Aasha, eagerness and a boyish curiosity wrapped his face as he waited for her to finish her thought.

Aayla was easier to answer, even to empathize with. Aasha hated skirts and dresses, too, but unlike the other woman, she refused to wear them. Aasha had decided to speak to her instead, hoping it would replace the images flowing in her mind with something much safer than what was currently there, until Obli touched her chin. She didn't want to look up, knowing he would be able to read more in her eyes than what she hadn't said. Not looking would be like admitting that she was scared, not something Aasha was willing to show to herself, let alone him. Lifting her chin, she lost herself in his eyes. Blinking rapidly, she leaned closer. Were they a different shade of blue now?

The husky tone was back, her fingers moving up to brush across his shoulder. The magnetism between them was strong, electrifying. Umm... There was no way she could answer, not honestly. And she wouldn't...no...couldn't lie to him. Hoping to distract him, Aasha gave into the pull, moving her lips to brush against the pulse point she could see in his neck, closing her eyes and breathing in his scent.

Her eyes were bright when she forced herself back, calling herself all sorts of a fool. The color in her face had grown deeper, her eyes slightly glazed from the desire. She was determined she wouldn't succumb, not here, not now...

A sense of loss combined with relief filled her when he turned to look at his sister. Aasha breathed slowly and deeply, hoping her body's betrayal wasn't as easy to read as she feared. Helps yer sist'r Obli...I ain't movin' fer now. We nae needin' her pun'shin' us mor'n ya thinks she was gonna 'ready.

Aayla grunted softly at her brother, still rubbing the back of her head and weaving slightly where she sat. Trying to clear the haze from her mind, she found it difficult to focus on staying in one spot, the pain helped some as pain was apt to do, but she felt as though she was slipping off the side of a river bank with nothing to grab hold of to save herself. “mmm fine…” she muttered to herself more than Aasha and Obli… Aasha and Obli! Kissing! She had known of course, the moment her brother had laid eyes on the woman what was coming, and if she was completely honest with herself she would have been hard pressed to find a better match. Still… Kissing… she was right here! “mmm here..” she slurred the world lurching suddenly. Wary of more head breaking obsticles she slowly, and gently lay down on the floor the rough wood scratching at her face. “jus… rest a.. min…”

Obli looked at her perplexed as she dodged the question. Quickly replaced by the arousing touch of her lips kissing his neck. An erotic chill skipped down his side. And eagerness grew inside him, it was raw and unfamiliar. The kiss broke and he was looking at her eyes, shining bright, screaming to him of their new found passion, new found...love? His sister's protestations didn't give him much time to dwell on it. She said she was fine, yeah right. He turned back to look at her. What the hell? Was she lying on the floor? He groaned. Glancing back at Aasha, she seemed much better off than his sister was, but that wasn't saying a whole lot. "Meh be righ' back, Aash." He leaned in kissing her deeply.

He stood and slid over to where his sister lay on the floor. "Sissy...sissy..." Concern filled his voice and he gently patted her cheek. He barked at the bartender to clear a table and chair for her. How daft was he to let someone lie on his floor? Even worse if that someone was his twin sister or Aasha. He made a mental note that he would see the edge of a dagger before the night was over, one small little cut on the chin to remind him for next time. There would be a next time after all. Obli felt the stillness wash over him, he guessed his eyes had gone icy blue and were slowly giving way to black as his pupils grew. He forced it back down, stifling it. It wouldn't stay there forever, but he had two more important people to tend to right now, when they were safe - he was next. "Sissy, lets get ye sittin' ye should nay be on t'e floor. Where be yer 'orse? Did ye bring it wit ye? Ye nay be staying far frem 'ere right? You ok'y?" He hadn't meant for it to sound like an interrogation.

[Aayla]

Aayla opened one eye, and there was Obli, uggh… She was happily unconscious why did he have to go and wake her up. Especially about some silly notion that the floor wasn’t a perfectly respectful place to lay down when you’ve bonked your head. “Fine fine… chair bit me… I’ll live… go shmooch Aasha already…” she mumbled drunkenly her eye closing again. She had less than no intention of getting up, and she sure as spit didn’t want to see any more brothers sucking face tonight. “I’mma jus gunna rest here a bit…”

Concentrating on breathing was doing her absolutely no good. Not when he hadn't moved away. Even less so when he leaned in to kiss her. The pent up emotions welled out uncontrollably, her lips clinging to his as she kissed him passionately. Her pulse was fluttering erratically by the time she opened her eyes to watch him move towards his sister, her hands going to her lips to press in, holding onto the sensations invoked as long as she could. What was wrong with her? Heavily lidded eyes watched him closely, mesmerized by the way he was moving.

There was something wrong, she was watching too closely to miss the signs of him going still. Aasha looked around the bar, trying to place the danger, her dagger already sliding from its sheath to rest in the palm of her hand. She was scooting across the floor, trying to get closer without drawing attention to herself.

She was close enough to hear Aayla clearly by then, not just a few words that carried. She wanted to rest on the floor? Looking around once more for even a hint of the danger Obli had to have sensed, the girl saw nothing. Replacing her dagger back in its sheath. Aasha grabbed the back of the chair, standing slowly. We sh'uld gets 'er home. Much saf'r sleepin' inna inn 'stead o' inna tav'rn. The room was spinning slightly, Aasha couldn't tell if it was from the whiskey she'd consumed, or Obli's presence. She wanted to go outside, to leave this place before she lost control completely.

Obli hadn't noticed Aasha approaching him until she spoke. She was right after all, Sissy needed a comfortable and safe bed more than anything. Hearing his sister talk about him kissing Aasha made him groan on the inside, it was coming sooner or later. Regardless, he wasn't going to let her get away that easily. "Sissy, we a're'dy dun t'at an' we be havin' long time t'be doin' it more, but t'nigh' we be 'avin' now t'be gettin' ye 'ome." He he grabbed his sister from behind, looping his arms under her and slowly began bringing her to her feet. "Ye still be 'avin' a room ina same inn as meh?" He hoped so. For days the bed in his room stayed empty as he slept on the floor in his usual fashion and now he might be inundated with people. Also, the inn wasn't too far away and he wasn't sure how long he could keep her on a horse.

Aayla's head rolled from Aasha to Obli and back again. Really everyone needed to just go and leave her to sleep already, why were they pestering her. There were more questions... inn? no inn.. "hrm.. no shleeping at'th barns.. or 'ere" she managed to mutter. She in truth had not gotten a room when she returned to the town, there had been no point with her not sleeping much anyhow, and she hadn't so much stuff that she couldn't just keep it with her.

She didn't fight being lifted but managed to open her eyes slowly. "Just lemme go, I dun need caring fer.." she grumbled but didn't move all that far or at all in point of fact.

[Aasha]

Aasha had the distinct feeling she’d missed part of what Aayla had said the first time, hearing Obli mention they’d already done it and would have time to do it more was just confirmation of that. She couldn’t decide if she wanted to ask what they were talking about, or leave well enough alone. Glancing between the pair, Aasha decided to let it drop. The priority was getting Aayla home, she obviously couldn’t walk without major help. Aasha swayed on her feet, still holding onto the chair as she watched Obli helping his sister up.

The girl frowned hearing Aayla was staying in taverns or a barn. She’d not thought about where her friends were staying, assuming they were both at the inn. Had she dragged her to Chaoi with her when she couldn’t afford to come? Drawn out of her thoughts by Aayla’s slurred words, Aasha narrowed her eyes, recognizing herself in the other woman. He’ll be lettin’ ya go when yer inna bed. Nae likes Obli ev’r sleeps in ‘is when he’s stayin’ inna inn. She flushed as she said it, hoping Aayla wouldn’t ask how Aasha knew, then remembered it had been mentioned in front of her before. Trying to make her voice sound soothing, Aasha continued; We knows ya dun need carin’ fer…bu’ yer broth’r needs ta be carin’ fer ya anyhow. An’ ya’d do the same fer eith’r o’ us. Glancing up at Obli, she whispered, albeit louder than she’d intended; I ken follows ya…helps ya makes sure she gets ta yer inn safe.

[Obli.]

Obli nodded as Aasha offered her support. He lifted Aayla higher and began moving toward the door. "Ifn ye ken get t'e door fer meh Aash, meh 'preciate it muchly." He hoped Aayla would work with him on this, but he would drag her feet if he had to. With slow progress, they made it towards the door. Walking outside the cool night air made the hair on his arms stand. He looked for her horse finding it a bit farther away than he had been wanting. As they approached Caraid, Obli spoke softly to his sister. "Ye 'ave t'be 'elpin' meh get ye on yer 'orse Sissy, or meh 'ave t'be layin' ye 'cross it." He really wanted her help and thought the warning might provide incentive for her.

[Aasha]

Aasha weaved her way with exaggerated care to the door, not wanting to faceplant into the floor, nor fall on her bum for a second time in one evening. She was determined to help, especially if Obli really thought they had something to do with Aayla's condition. She still didn't understand how, and vowed to ask him later, but trusted that he was being honest with her about it. She opened the door with a flourish, holding it open while it held her up. - Bad idea Aasha, move slower or you'll go face first into the door next time! - She took little comfort in not needing to be carried out like her friend, at this point she wasn't sure she didn't want to lay flat somewhere, or maybe just go back and kick someone's bum in the tavern, that always made her feel better in the past. Being out of sorts, her emotions a jumbled mess, wasn't helping the girl at all. Aasha moved closer to both the horse and her friends once she regained her balance, just in time to hear Obli speak to Aayla. I ken move ta the oth'r side an' pull if'n ya wants.

[Aayla]

She was moving, but having not remembered moving her feet this was slightly perplexing. Looking down at the ground her head rolls slightly with the movement making her gut groan with the effort. “dun be doin that again…” she whispered to herself, crossing and un-crossing her eyes. She eventually came around to the understanding that her brother was carrying her, and briefly wondered when he got so strong, which of course was silly given she was not a large woman and he was not a weak man. When he asked her to help him get her on the horse she nodded numbly, and surprising herself managed to make it into the saddle with only a minor upending her skirts. Leaning forward she put her head against Caraid’s neck closing her eyes. “I’s fine… jus… take Aasha ‘ome eh?” she mumbled, fairly certain she’d be able to manage getting to the stable and falling into a haystack without killing herself. “Should leave me ‘lone…”

[Obli.]

Obli breathe a sigh of relief as he got his sister on her horse without difficulties. Worried his sister might do something stupid he took some rope from a pack on Kael and tied her horse to his. Kael wasn't going anywhere without him. "Dun be leavin' meh sissy. Meh be righ' back. Ye ne'er left meh b'hin' b'fer dun start now." He said sternly. He looked up at Aasha and nodded his appreciation to her. "Aash, ifn ye ken do meh one las' fav'r and watch meh sissy, meh jes' 'ave t'be goin' in t'e tavern re'ly fas'." He had just asked her to watch his sister. That was huge. He never trusted anyone with his sister unless they were family. Granted she was a long-term friend and it was more a technicality that she wasn't part of House, at least not yet. This was odd, new and good.

His sister was safe and Aasha was in a better place. He could no longer stifle it. Obli felt the stillness returning. He turned from her has he knew his eyes were turning icy blue and his pupils grew. He walked purposefully towards the tavern, opening the door just enough to slip in and shut it quietly behind him. He saw the bartender cleaning off the table where he and Aasha sat previously, towards the back. Without warning he showved the man up against the wall, pinning him there by the throat with his left forearm. Taking one of his nicer knives, the sharper ones, he moved it so it lay flat against the man's face. He pulled it down his face gently tilting it a bit so it made a shallow cut and blood streamed down from his cheek. Moving the knife to the other side of his face to repeat the process he spoke in a venomous tone, all filters and control were gone. "Ifn meh e'er 'ear 'bout ye lettin meh sister or t'e woman meh love lie on yer floor 'gain, fer e'en a mom'nt, t'ey be ina mark't fer a new barten'er." An incoherent noise rumbled from his throat and the rage flowed through him. Blood trickled down the other cheek too. He placed the tip of his knife just under the man's chin and flicked the edge of the knife forward, making a deep cut down the the bone in the center of his chin. Nothing too serious, just a reminder. He released the man, letting him breath in the air that had been slowly denied to him. He turned and walked back towards the door. The stillness slowly began top fade, he was getting better control over it. It wouldn't be long before his eyes relaxed back to normal.

[Aayla]

Aayla sighed heavily; he had to go playing the brother card. She knew full well she could out run him even in her current state and be well and gone before he or Aasha had a moment to react, but to what end… they wouldn’t take the hint and just leave her be, they’d follow. Too much work, too little reward, and she was just tired. Closing her eyes again she grumbled incoherently at her horse’s neck, the occasional word like “stupid” and “alone” the only things audible. Her head pounded fiercely and she just wanted to lay down and sleep, Opening one eye she looked around to see if Aasha had left her alone or not… not holding out much hope.

[Aasha]

Aasha watched as Aayla struggled onto the horse, flashing a good bit of leg as she did so. It was further proof to the girl that no good could come of skirts. They were beyond evil, she could see no purpose in their existence. Ain't leavin' ya 'lone Aayla...ya dun do tha' fer fr'ends. Aasha patted the woman's back once she was on her horse, helping her smooth out the confounded skirts. Once her friend looked reasonably secure on the stallions back, Aasha gently patted Caraid's neck, her love of horses easy to see.

The girl smiled as she watched Obli talk to Kael, stifling a giggle at his stern tone. It was one that would make her hackles rise. Luckily she wasn't the horse, Kael stood calmly, intelligence shining from his eyes. Aasha nodded at Obli's request, wondering what he could have forgotten. She intended to do what he asked, until she saw the oddest flicker in his eyes. The stillness of his body called out to her, bringing to mind the danger she had sensed earlier. Turning back to Aayla, she whispered; Yer nae daf', nor is ya 'lone. Ya gots a fam'ly wha' loves ya an' cares fer ya. Yer lucky Aayla. Jus' be list'nin' fer once, ev'n if'n ya dun wants.

Aasha gently smoothed back Aayla's hair, seeing the other woman's eyes drooping, then finally close. Her intentions to stay had changed with Obli's eyes, his sister would be alright. She had to make sure he would as well. Looking one last time at Aayla, she grinned and winked when the lady opened one eye. I willna be lettin' yer broth'r gets 'urts neith'r. Prom'se. With that, the girl began to move, adrenaline coursing through her, temporarily negating the effects of the alcohol she had consumed. Reentering the tavern with a dagger drawn and ready, Aasha scanned the room, eyes widening when she saw Obli with a knife against the bartender. Her footsteps silent, Aasha walked behind him, the dangerous glint in her eyes stopping the movement of the few patrons left in the establishment. No one would harm Obli, nor would they help the bartender, not with her watching Obli's back.

She meant to signal her arrival before she got too close. Meant to tell him she was there so he wouldn't sense her behind him and assume danger. What she meant to do did not happen, the words Obli spoke stopping her cold. The woman he loved? Aasha was between him and the door, her eyes on his face when he turned and walked towards her, his words a refrain echoing inside her head. His eyes...deep, dark, dangerous. It was a side of him she'd never seen, one that most would be afraid of. Not Aasha, if anything it drew her to him. He wasn't one she would have to protect, breaking down another barrier she had so carefully erected. Eyes still locked to his, the girl waited for him to finish his approach.

[Obli.]

Obli's eyes focused slowly and seeing Aasha standing in front of him was not what he had expected. He skipped a step but recovered himself before completely stumbling. He wiped the knife off on his pants before returning it to his waist. He had stopped thinking as he saw her. Then it all came colliding down on him. Did he really say he loved her? Well, could he deny he did? Had she heard that? It was way too soon for that. "Aash..." Was all he could get out. Where was his sister? Why wasn't she watching her? Some how he just knew intuitively that she wouldn't have left her unless everything was fine. He walked up to her, eying the dagger in her hand. "ye nay be needin' t'at Aash." He motioned to the dagger. She wasn't running yet. He looked into her eye assuming his weren't quite normal yet. "Meh an' 'im, we jes' be talkin' 'bout...uh...etiq'ette." He looked back at the man, blood still falling from his face. He turned back to Aasha seeing into her emerald eyes. He grinned embarrassingly. Maybe her reaction would give him a hint of how much she heard or seen. "We 'ave an un'erstan'in' now." He glanced back at the bartender. "Right? Ye an' meh, we be 'greein' now." He focused back on Aasha. He let out a short breath. He was a bit hesitant, wanting desperately to know what she was thinking.

[Aasha]

She knew the moment he realized she was standing in front of him. Aasha slid the dagger back into its sheath, her hands moving automatically, her entire focus on him. She hadn't moved, nor lowered her eyes, fascinated. It was like looking into a deep, dark pool, the colors swirling together, blending into a different shade moment by moment as she watched. Aasha reached out, tracing her fingertips up his cheek towards the corner of his eye, lost. I dunno wha' et'kit be; she whispered. The spell was broken when he looked towards the bartender, her hand dropping awkwardly to her side. Aasha's gaze followed his, noting the fear and adding to it as she sent a silent warning of her own. The words he spoke were overshadowed by the ones still echoing in her mind, her brain trying to process them so they would make sense. He loved her... Aasha flashed back to earlier that evening, when he'd paused and said he cared. She had shied away from love being the word he'd bitten off, like was so much easier to understand, to deal with, to... Clearing her throat, she murmured; Yer sist'r is waitin'...we...we sh'uld be gettin' 'er home.

[Obli.]

Obli's skin burned a pleasurable sensation under her touch. "Etiq'ette, like 'ow yer 'posed t'be treatin' people nice, in 'is case cus'omers - 'sifically, ye and Sissy." He grinned, a bit pleased with himself. His eyes falling upon her he could see she was lost in thought. She seemed...distracted. Had she heard...? Probably. Obli let out a silent sigh. He was just coming to terms with it, he couldn't imagine how she felt. Not great he was guessing. Her throat cleared, followed by the most reasonable suggestion he could think of. "Aye, we best be gettin' 'er t' t'e Inn." He slipped his arm around her waist and made for the door.

The air nipped at him and he walked out the door. Aayla was still on her horse. Bully for him. He'd expected her to leave. He walked over to where Kael stood, patting the horse on the head. He climbed up on to Kael, watching to make sure Aasha was safe. He'd considered helping her, but decided against it. She wasn't one for wanting to feel like she needed help. He brought Kael closer to Aayla, gently resting his hand on her shoulder. "Sissy, ken ye ride? Jes' stay close and follow meh. Meh be gettin' ye sleepin' in no time." He moved Kael forward watching to ensure his sister followed. He just had to get her to the Inn and she would be fine while she slept it off.

[Aasha]

Hmmm…yer et’kit is som’thin’ I ain’t versed in. Good thing I ain’t meanin’ ta be workin’ wit’ nae cust’mers. Wha’ I be callin’ tha’ is jus’ common sense…folk wha’ treats me bad dun lives long ta be tellin’ ‘bout it. For once, she didn’t think of Donnor when mentioning being treated poorly, nor her cousin. She was still struggling to come to terms with what he’d said. Maybe she had misheard…no…she knew she hadn’t. Feeling the weight of his gaze, she lowered her gaze. She couldn’t hide the turmoil in her eyes, even if she had schooled her face to be expressionless.

The shot of adrenaline that had let her fight of the effects of the whiskey was gone, leaving her even more dazed than before. Aasha sighed, attempting to push his words to the back of her mind. She wanted space, needed to move away so she could deal with the tailspin he’d put her into…but she had lost the willpower to deny herself the pleasure of his touch. It was another layer of confusion added to her already addled brain.

They made it through the door together, Aasha leaning lightly on him for support she wouldn’t ask for. Slowly moving towards Storm as he did Kael, the girl ignored the byplay between the siblings. Mounting her horse, she nudged her mare gently so she would follow the pair of stallions in front of them. She could still feel where his arm had rested around her waist, the contact long since broken. Her mind refused to shut down, she wasn’t rebuilding the walls she’d surrounded herself with nearly fast enough. - He said he loves me. – Aasha’s fear was deep, the word love twisting her up inside. She couldn’t let him love her, old insecurities and inadequacies haunting her anew. She didn’t want him to love her. - If you don’t want it, why aren’t you acting to kill it? – Aasha fished inside her bodice for her flask, drinking deeply before forcing a smile to her face. I’m bettin’ she’ll be a’rights ta ride. It isna far ta the inn. I ken foll’ws an’ lets ya knows if’n she starts slippin’, ya ken leads ‘er horse.

[Aayla]

She had waited, though for the life of her she couldn’t at this point remember why. She had managed to stay on the horse, even after watching Aasha slip back into the tavern, or to be more precise watching eight Aasha’s walk through walls. Giggling softly at that, she shook her head before remembering Obli was talking to her. “Hrm? Yeah.. I’s fiiiine… pshhht…” it was supposed to sound comforting, but it sounded stupid, even to her. How did she let herself get into this spot? Normally she was aware enough to get stumbling drunk far from the prying eyes of those that knew her, and most definitely not –this- drunk around Obli. She knew he was worried about her, which both irked her and made her smile inwardly, he knew enough to know she didn’t need help or want it half the time. Caraid was well used to her, and plodded along carefully; aware his mistress wasn’t all there, smart animal she noted before giggling again. She would let Obli take care of her for now… if only out of love for her brother, but she’d make sure this wasn’t an issue again, she didn’t need her brother worrying about her… he had more important concerns now.

[Obli.]

Obli felt Aasha lean into him. A feeling of completeness filled him. She'd heard him, no doubt, but she wasn't running. He owed her an explanation. It would come in due time. If he thought about it honestly, he needed her. He always had, even before he met her. He just hadn't been aware of his need or that it was her. He knew now. It hurt to let go of her when they got to the horses. Everything had happened so fast lately, but he couldn't imagine a moment without her. The realization hit him hard, but it felt secure.

Obli said a quiet prayer of thanks that the Inn was so close to the tavern. He wasn't sure how long he would be able to keep his sister on her horse. Arriving at the room he kept, he slid down from Kael and unlocked the door. Returning to his sister he spoke gently to her. "We be 'ome Sissy. Ye be stayin' in meh room t'nigh'. Meh dun use t'e bed an'way." He reached up to help her off her horse. Tugging at her gently to get her down from her stallion. She'd be inside and sleeping soon enough.

[Aayla]

Aayla felt Obli tug at her, and she waivered a moment between falling off her horse, getting off in as dignified a fashion as she could manage… and kicking Obli for being so irritating. “I kin get me own room…” she grumbled, glaring at her brother. This was getting out of hand, and she needed to get a hold of herself now before she ended up babied and tucked in. Taking a deep breath she heaved herself off the horse, and managed with a small bit of shock to land on her feet. Standing up as straight as she could manage she made a point of straightening her skirts and folding her arms across her chest in stubborn defiance. Of course… it wouldn’t change the fact she was so far gone that even standing still she swayed slightly and had issues keeping her eyes open.

[Aasha]

Aasha sighed as they reached the inn, gentle pressure bringing Storm to a stop. She watched as Obli helped his sister down, envying them their close bond. She missed Athorgate, he would have done that for her...and suddenly missed Pillow as well. She tipped the flask back again, lowering her lashes. She wanted to be home, to sort through her feelings. Examine every moment of the evening, linger over the feelings he'd invoked, decide what to do with the words she'd overheard. Aasha's stomach rolled slightly, the mushroom mixture not sitting well on her empty stomach. Wrinkling her nose, she reluctantly tucked the flask into her bodice. Ummm...I'll be seein' ya'll lat'rs. Sh'uld be gettin' 'ome now...

[Obli.]

"Aye sissy ye sur' ken get yer own room, t'morr'y. T'nigh' ye be stayin' 'ere. His tone showed there was no negotiating this tonight, but managed to stay brotherly. He slowly lead his sister towards the door. He was guessing she would fall into a deep slumber the moment she touched the bed. At least the sheets were fresh. As he approach the door he heard Aasha speak to them both. It stopped him dead in his tracks. She'd done so well after hearing...but...now she was leaving? He turned his head to look at her. "Aash...nay be leavin'. 'Least nay be leavin' jes' yet...ple'se? Meh be righ' back, pr'mise." His voice sounded defeated and his eyes held sadness and fear of loss. He paused for a moment before continuing to get Aayla into the room. It wasn't much, small actually, but it was comfortable. He approached the bed and slowly positioned his sister so she could lay back comfortably."'Ere sissy, ye rest righ' 'ere. Ye ken stay long as ye be needin'. Meh 'as t'go fin' Aash, meh 'opes she nay left jes' yet. Meh be seein' ye ina mornin'." His kissed his finger tips and gently touched them to her forehead. If she gave it a minute she would be asleep well through the night.He rose from the bed and headed out back out the door. Closing it gently behind him.

[Aayla]

Frustrating and annoying, and… her brother… She followed his lead, and let him sit her on the bed, but that was about as far as she was going to let him go. Smiling softly she sighs and shakes her head at the man. “Quit worrin’on me an go aft’r'er already man…” Sitting back she closed her eyes and pretended to sleep, at least she intended on pretending to sleep… anything to get him out of the room already

[Aasha]

Aasha didn't answer, instead watching the pair as they entered the building. The intelligent thing to do would be to ignore his request, leave before he returned. It would give her time to assimiliate everything that had occurred...or just to run from it all and bury it deep inside with a myriad of other things she didn't want to face. As the door closed behind them, Aasha leaned forward, burying her face in Storm's neck. I needs ta be goin' home. Fig'rin' ou' how ta change how he feels... She spoke the words, but what she heard was the defeat in his tone. Saw the look in his eyes as he'd glanced back at her. The girl cursed under her breath, calling herself all sorts of a fool. Breathing in Storm's familiar scent, Aasha forgot where she was, reliving the moments in the tavern once more. Her eyes shined with suppressed emotions, lowering the barriers to examine how right she had felt in his arms. Aasha knew what she should do, yet did not move. Trusting in the promise that he would return.

[Obli.]

Obli hid the shock that she had actually stayed, but his gratitude and happiness was apparent. He tied Caraid up near the door to his room at the inn. Walking over to Kael, he smiled at Aasha, extremely pleased that she had stayed. In one swift movement he was back on top of Kael and moved him over to where Aasha and Storm stood. "So, meh 'ad meant t'be offerin' ye meh spare bed...but.." He glanced back at his room, where his sister lay. He returned his eyes to Aasha and spoke again. "T'yer 'ouse righ'? He wasn't going to fight her going home, but he damn sure was going along for the ride. He turned Kael in the right direction towards her house. He looked at her, waiting for her to signal she was ready, watching her as she appeared to glow in the moon light. Maybe he would finally have a chance to talk to her, put her at ease regarding what she overheard. His demeanor was quiet and pensive. He had a lot to consider in a short time.

[Aasha]

The girl was so lost in replaying the events of the evening that she'd totally missed Obli's return until he spoke. - What is wrong with you?! You can't afford to lose focus like this. Too close to Munster you fool! - Lifting her head from Storm's mane, she flushed bright red. Aasha straightened on the mare's back, shivering slightly when the wind caught her unprepared. She hadn't planned on being in town so long, and the temperature had dropped with the setting sun. Being against Storm had helped block the worst of it, now she was getting the full effect. At least that's what Aasha was going to blame the sudden catch of her breath when Obli smiled at her. That or the blasted mushroom mixture...it definitely wasn't his presence. Her stomach rolled again, causing her to regret adding to the whiskey even more.

Is she sleepin' then? Didna fights ya nom'res 'bout stayin' wit' ya? Aayla was safe to talk about, and Aasha's concern about her was genuine. She'd never seen the woman so drunk, normally Aayla held her liquor quite well. The girl busied herself with rubbing Storm's mane when Obli moved closer. She needs yer bed mor'n me...I gots one a' home. Yah, I'm goin' home, but ya dun gots ta be goin' wit'... It was a futile effort, he'd already turned his horse in the right direction. The action more than sufficient to tell her there was no arguing his intentions. Aasha gently nudged Storm's flanks, automatically taking the lead. She was nervous, an awkwardness rising that wasn't present before, and had no clue how to dispel the feeling. Letting the silence lengthen between them, she concentrated on staying astride, unsure what to say.

[Aasha]

Obli followed in silent thought. Insecurity was thick in the air. He stalked along in the night taking in the scenery, trying to think. Or trying to forget? He wasn't sure. The trees marched by, merely dark silhouettes in the night. His mind race and his heart was heavy. Heavy with dread. He was afraid he was loosing her. Not hours ago the remaining walls between them weakened allowing for emotions to be exchanged. Had he rebuilt them in a moment of little control? Well, there was no going back now, all he could do was press forward. "Aash..." He slowed Kael to a halt in the middle of the road. "...meh know ye be hearin' meh in t'e tav'rn." He called out, sighing, the feeling of impending rejection grew. "meh be su'prised too, but meh be meanin' it. Meh be knowin' t'at fer sur'." He looked away, the fear of loosing her gripped him. He couldn't tell her this without looking her in the eyes, those gorgeous emerald eyes. He turned back to face her, it was the least he could do. "Meh nay be lookin' fer ye t'be feelin' t'e same way, ifn ye nay be feelin' it." He bit his lower lip. "T'e las' t'ing meh wants t'be doin' be pushin' ye int' som't'in' t'at nay be re'l t'ye - or ye nay be re'dy fer." He sighed, shoulders slumping a bit. This was it, the end. The sweetest of beginnings, the most treacherous of ends. The only thing he'd wanted was to hold and care for her. How could have possibly destroy the only thing he wanted so desperately so quickly. He urged Kael to continue moving forward at a slow pace.

She was beginning to wonder why he was bothering to take her all the way home, old doubts assaulting her with the growing silence. They'd made it out of town, the trees casting shadows on the path. Moonlight was filtered through the branches, deep pools of darkness lining the road. Aasha wanted to urge Storm into a run, hoping to leave her confusion behind, but couldn't. Not without leaving Obli behind too...as much as she wanted to avoid dealing with what she'd heard, she equally wanted to talk to him. It only added to her turbulent thoughts.

Aasha looked back when he spoke her name, frowning when she noted Kael had stopped. Had he decided to only take her part of the way? Sighing silently, the girl brought her mare to a halt. Convincing herself that saying good night here was better than at her house anyway, she waited, almost falling off Storm when he brought up the one thing she desperately didn't want to acknowledge. She wanted to deny overhearing anything...Obli made that impossible.

I... The sigh was audible now, at least to her. Maybe not to Obli, who was half a length behind her. The huskiness in her voice spoke of her struggle to control herself. I knows ya me'nt wha' ya said. I... Cursing herself, Aasha slid off of Storms back, leaning on the mare for support. I dun knows wha' I'm re'dy fer. I knows I'm feelin' som'thin'...jus'... Aasha dropped her chin and closed her eyes. Yer real ta me Obli. I ain't sure love is. I thoughts I knew wha' it was...now...I...I jus' ain't sure.

Aasha sensed rather than saw that Kael had started walking again. Turning so she was facing Storm, the girl waited, not wanting to see him change directions back towards town. It's a'rights Obli; she mumbled. - Wait for him to leave, then go home girl. No sense in standing here like a ninny all night. -

Obli hadn't moved far before he noticed she wasn't getting back on Storm. Instead she was responding. He figured that he stopped Kael again, sliding off and walking over to her. He wanted to touch her, wrap his arms around her, hold her, take away all her hurts. But he was no fool, he knew he couldn't take them all away. He settled for reaching out a hand of his and placing it on her shoulder, pulling it back gently, wanting nothing more than to face her. "Aash, ye feelin' som't'in fer meh be mor' t'en meh e'er hop'd fer. Meh a'way t'ought meh be ona fool's erran'. But meh kept wishin' jes' t'e same b'cuz...meh jes' felt ifn meh 'ad a chance t'at...t'at t'would be one o' t'e bes' t'ings e'er t' 'appen t'meh." Moving the hand from her shoulder he touched her face gently, his thumb playing gently along her cheek. "'Tis jes' feelin' righ' Aash. Meh ne'er knew meh could feel t'is way 'bout som'b'dy. 'Tis like meh a'ways b'long'd wit ye an' ne'er knew it. Meh jes' be 'fraid o' pushin' ye 'way, t'would jes' tear meh t'pieces." He looked to the side as his eyes welled from the fear of loosing her. He brought his free hand to his face, taking his thumb and forefinger and bringing them across his eyes to pinch the bridge of his nose. He looked back to her, trying to regain his composure. He melted in her eyes, felt safe."Aash, we bes' be gettin' ye 'ome, b'fer ye get too cold." His hand lingered on her face, he just didn't want to break the connection.

What was he doing? Why was he dragging this out? It was painful enough already...Aasha didn't want to watch him ride away, not this time. Breathing deeply, she knew the moment he'd reached her side, even before she felt his hand on her shoulder. Her stomach was twisted up in knots, panic setting in. The girl slowly gave into the pressure, glancing up as she turned, just as quickly looking back down.

Me havin' feelins fer ya isna the bes' tha' ken happ'n to ya. Her lashes fluttered closed as he caressed her cheek. I...I tole ya I was tryin'. I ain't sure wha' to do wit' how I'm feelin'. Ya... Aasha bit the inside of her lip, meeting his eyes. He was making it hard for her to think again, her mind screaming he was too close while her heart whispered not close enough. I dun wanna hurts ya... She wasn't sure how to explain her fear, or even if she should.

Yah...sh'uld be gettin' home. Ya ken heads backs ta town, ain't too much furth'r 'fore my house. It wasn't because of the cold, she'd stopped thinking of it the moment he'd gotten close enough to touch her. When the moonlight caught his eyes, she saw the sparkle, her heart sinking. Surprised at how badly it bothered her to see, Aasha let his hand slide across her cheek, moving her head until she could kiss his palm. I'm sorry Obli...ya des'rve bett'r'n me...som'one wha' isna brok'n. Som'body wha' ain't 'fraid o' feelin' or o' losin' pieces o' ''ems'lves.

Obli watched as she reacted to him gracing her cheek with his hand. He didn't need anything else to know that this was the girl for him. He smirked as she told him she wasn't the best thing for him. "Ye ken t'ink t'at ifn ye be wantin', but meh nay be lyin' when meh say it be meanin' t'at much t'meh." He spoke slowly and deliberately, trying to ensure she understood he meant it. "An'...tryin' be mor' t'en meh e'er ask o' ye Aash. Ifn ye try, meh...meh nay be 'fraid o' ye 'urtin' meh." He held her eyes, looking deep into them.

Obli sighed, leaving her wasn't really on his list of things to do. "Ifn it be t'e same t'ye, meh be likin' t'be seein' ye 'ome. Meh re'lly...re'lly nay be wantin' t'leave ye. Nay righ' now, 'least." The feel of her cheek sliding under his hand and the kiss that followed drew him even closer to her. Her words of defeat settled on him as he moved closer. "Yer who meh be wantin' Aash. N'b'dy else. Ne'er. Ain't a person bet'er t'en t'e one meh want mor' t'en an't'in'. Meh wants ye Aash, e'ery brok'n an' 'fraid piece o' ye, but not'in' mor' t'en ye willin' t'give." He leaned in a kissed her, overwhelmed by the intensity of their talk. He leaned back "Aash, meh loves ye...an' ifn meh 'as t'be waitin' a lifetime fer ye t'feel t'at way, ifn ye e'er does, t'at be whet meh wants t'do." He looked into her eyes, conveying his most honest desire.

The sincerity in his words caused an ache deep inside. Aasha's head swiveled again so she could meet his eyes. M'ybe I'm 'fraid yer gonna hurts me Obli. I knows ya said ya willna be doin' it, nae on purp'se...bu' tha' dun mean it willna happ'n. Aasha's eyes welled with tears as she spoke, the depth of her fear clearly reflected when the moonlight caught them.

Ya ken sees me home. I wasna wantin' ya to go. Wasna gonna watch ya rides 'way from me... She was saying too much, and couldn't figure out how to stop. Aasha had been fighting her reaction to him most of the evening, but couldn't now. She didn't have the strength, nor the desire. Aasha went still when he leaned in, a soft sigh escaping right as his lips met hers. Twining her hands around his neck, she leaned into him as they kissed. It was over too soon, he was leaning back and speaking again before she'd even caught her breath.

Swaying slightly, Aasha's face blanched. She couldn't deny what she'd heard this time, not even to herself. Not when he was saying it again, not when she could read it in his eyes afterward. Her hands dropped from his neck as if scalded. Stumbling back against Storm, Aasha shook her head in denial. She was trapped between him and the mare, with nowhere to go. Pivoting, she stared blindly towards home, trying to deal with the dazzling array of hope and fear that were swimming inside her heart. Aasha had rotated too fast, her stomach protesting violently as the world swirled dizzily around her. Bent double, she held her belly, tears trickling down her face when the protestation resulted in losing the contents of her stomach in front of him.

"Aye, 'tis tru' Aash, meh ken be sayin' nay all meh want an' it nay be meanin' t'at be tru'. Meh willin' t'prove it t'ye e'ery day, e'en when ye nay be 'fraid an'mor'. Sur' meh boun' t'be doin' som't'in' daft t'at ye nay be t'rill'd 'bout, but ne'er like t'e tro'bles o' yer past, not'in' close t' t'at". He watched as her eyes grew heavy and glassy. He placed his hand on her shoulder, rubbing it tenderly.

His stomach jumped as she let out a little sigh as they kissed. His need, his desire grew as she placed her arms around his neck. "Meh ne'er was plannin' on ridin' 'way frem ye. Nay fer a sec'nd." He whispered in her ear.

Emotional torment shot through Obli as she reacted to his words. Why did you just say that to her again? What good could possibly have come from that? What were you thinking? Good job, nothing like making her run faster. Obli stopped thinking and just reacted the moment she bent down. He was on his knees beside her as she doubled over, one hand placed gentle on her back for assurance and the other taking on the task of brushing back her hair. "Ye okay Aash, jes' breat' slowly. Meh get ye 'ome in jes' a few minutes." His voice was a soothing tone. The moment he anticipated came. Some of the drink from earlier in the evening was expelled. He saw the tears streaming down her face and he began drying her tears, one at a time with a tender touch. "Jes' gettin' rid o' some extra booze is all Aash. Ye be jes' fine. Meh be righ' 'ere fer ye." He knew damn well it was more than just the booze. Great job, stupid. Tell her you love her and scare the wits out of her. What did you think was going to happen? Moron. He bit down on the inside of his lower lip, the subtle pain chased away his thoughts and he returned his focus to her. "'Aash, ye be a'righ'. Meh sorry, meh nay be meanin' t'be frigh'enin' ye. Meh jes'...jes' ken nay t'ink righ' when meh be 'round ye. Meh gets all wrapp'd up in feelin's and t'oughts dun come out righ'...or meh say t'ings meh mean, but meh be knowin' t'ey scare ya, an' meh say t'em an'way wit'out t'inkin'..." His voice was somewhat distraught as he spoke and it slowly faded away. His words were as jumbled as his thoughts. He was at a complete and utter loss. He knelt there waiting for some type of sign from her.

She had expected him to leave as soon as she got sick. Not to kneel beside her, nor to actually help comfort her while she was ill. She was acutely aware of his hands the entire time, brushing her hair back, drying her tears. Close enough that she could feel his body heat soaking into her. Aasha continued to bend down, even after everything she'd been drinking all evening was expelled. She didn't trust herself to move, not when moving quickly was what caused this, though she did speak once she caught her breath.

Doin' som'thin' daf' likes this? Her voice was hoarse, reflecting how miserable she felt. It was a poor attempt at levity, one she couldn't maintain. Giving it up, she sighed, turning towards him. Donnor said he w'uld nae hurts me. Tha' he only needed me, nae nob'dy else. She wiped the remaining tears away, scrubbing her face hard and cursing herself repeatedly while she talked of her past. He said I w'uldna lets 'im has wimmen fr'ends an' walked 'way from me inna end. I wasna 'nuff fer 'im. He lets Bella bites 'im, an' jus' walked 'way from me. Nev'r cames home...

Aasha paused, hating how hard this was to tell, even after all this time. He lef' an' didna comes back. He said he loved me Obli...an' knew I loved 'im. Him lovin' me didna matt'r 'nuff ta makes 'im stay. It wasna hard fer 'im ta be findin' som'one wha' ken repl'ce me. Lifting her eyes to his, she worried her lower lip between her teeth before admitting; Ya does scare me, an' I dun scare easy. My co'sin beatin' me was eas'r than thinkin' 'bout how I feel fer ya, o' how ya feel fer me. Ya touches me an' I canna thinks 'tall. An'...ya said ya loves me Obli. I tole ya...I ain't sure wha' that is now. How ken ya says it so easy an' I'm strugglin' wit' jus' likin' ya mor'n I sh'uld?

[Aasha]

Obli let out the softest of chuckles as she poked fun at her self. "Aye, or maybe som't'in' a lil' worse, like passin' out too, knowin' me." He was trying to lighten her mood. His eyes widened as he heard her talk of her past relationship. Sure, he'd heard rumors about why they went separate ways, but he wasn't one for rumors. Hearing it confirmed from her changed that and the heat rose from his chest to his face. "Aye, meh did 'ear t'at a while back, meh ne'er knew it be tru'...'til now." He said solemnly. "Meh guess t'e dif'rence 'tween 'im an meh, is t'at 'e be needin' ye. Well, meh be needin' t'eat - so meh eat whate'er meh keen get, dun mat'r much t'meh. But Aash, meh be wan'in' ye." He stressed the word wanting. "When meh got Kael, meh picked 'im out b'uz meh wan'ed 'im. Sur', meh be needin' a 'orse an' meh could o' 'ad any 'orse t'ere, but meh got Kael b'cuz meh wan'ed 'im more t'en all t'e ot'ers combin'd, b'cuz 'e be perf'ct fer meh, as ye ken nay dou't tell. Dun be gettin' meh wrong, ye nay be a 'orse, nay t'all, but t'e idea be t'e same. Meh ken nay be 'splainin' 'ow meh know, but meh know in meh 'eart ye be perf'ct fer meh." He reached into his pocket and presented a piece of cloth for her to use at her discretion, as he handed it to her, lightly placing a kiss on her cheek, where the tears had been streaming not long ago.

He listened to her talk about her love life gone awry. While it was forever grateful they had a chance to be together, it pained him to know the emotional cost she had been burdened with. "Aash meh ken tell ye loved..love 'im. He was uncertain how to put it. "Meh ken see it in ye, but fer 'im..." Obli sighed "'Tis nay meh place, an' meh be 'pologizin' now, but meh would say t'at ifn 'e could r'place ye like t'at.....'e ne'er loved as much as 'e said, jes' meh 'pinion t'ough." He moved on not wanting to stay uncomfortably out of bounds too long. "Meh be knowin' meh loves ye Aash, b'cuz meh be knowin' 'ow it feels. Meh loved an' lost b'fer. Took meh fere'er t'put it b'hind meh an' move on. An' now meh feel fer ye like meh did long 'go, but stron'er t'en meh e'er knew poss'ble. Love ne'er changes Aash, it be jes' whet ye t'ink it be fer ye, ye jes' 'ad a bad 'sperience wit bein' loved back." Obli paused, collecting his thoughts he took her hand in his. "If strug'lin' with likin' meh be yer place righ' now, t'en be righ' t'ere. Nay be tryin' fer not'in' else 'til ye be re'dy, if ye e'er are re'dy." He stayed kneeling next to her in silence for a few moments, staring at the ground. He lifted his eyes to hers again and added. "'Tis jes t'at-...meh done runnin' Aash. Meh done lookin' fer meh place. Meh found it. An' it be righ' 'ere, next t'ye. Ifn meh 'aves t'at, not'in' much else mat'ers t'meh." His eyes were wide open and held the utmost in vulnerability, but it was alright, it was Aasha, she was safe.

It may have been a weak one, but his teasing about passing out did bring a smile to her face, however briefly. She wanted to tease back, but couldn't. Not when she felt so raw after telling him even a little about Donnor. Even feeling exposed didn't stop her from saying more, she wanted him to understand. The fear that he would walk away had lessened, she'd told him things before that she wanted to run from. He hadn't even flinched at them, let alone left.

I ain't nev'r lets mys'lf wants nothin'. Nae since...nae since I wanted ta go backs an' lives wit' my mum an' da 'stead o' my unkle an' co'sin. I wasna 'llowed...was tole my unkle needed me helpin' aft'r his wife died. She looked down at their clasped hands, thinking how right it felt, just as she had at the beach. Aasha had decided after Donnor left that she didn't need any man in her life...Obli was giving her a different perspective on what that meant. She did want him in her life, she enjoyed being around him most of the time. - Hell girl, even when you fight you like being with him! -

Dun me bein' perf'ct fer ya scares ya Obli? She had taken the cloth, rubbing it between her fingers and thumbs absently. I canna helps bu' loves 'im...dun wanna, an' I hates 'im too, bu' I ken nae fig're how ta stops the lovin' part. I jus' wants it ta be ov'r...where he canna hurts me no more. She met his eyes, then cautiously straightened, hoping there was nothing left to make her sick. She was dizzy and weak, but her stomach seemed to have settled down.

Turning slowly so they were facing, she tugged lightly on his hand. Its more fightin' it an' nae strugglin'. I knows I likes ya. Likes talkin' ta ya, an' spendin' time wit' ya. I ain't runnin' neith'r, leas' I ain't aimin' ta run. I ken nae say wha' I knows ya wan' ta hear...bu' I ken tells ya tha'. I ken nae 'mag'ne 'im bein' here comfortin' me while I gets sick. Ken see 'im teasin' me 'bout it, but nae jus' holdin' my hair an' wipin' tears. I ken nae 'mag'ne wantin' nob'dy else ta be doin' it bu' you. She felt a burden lift when she admitted it, fighting was taking its toll and she wanted to be honest with him. Shivering as the wind caught her again, she smiled shyly. Takes me home Obli...ple'se?

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