Bunbatty Castle (Donnor and Aasha's home)

[Aasha]

After several days of staying in the Inis Inn, his Lord approached him with a new large task like the one before they came to Ireland. Like he did in Shrewsbury, it was early morning when he arrived at the location and began his observation of the daily movements inside and outside of the castle. All day he laid in wait as slowly the time winded down until no parts of the sun were visible. He was in luck, there was no moon tonight and the town was dark as most had gone to bed. The only people who were out at these hours were guards or those who had spent to long in the local tavern, and let us not forget the people who hid in the shadows in wait for one of those unlucky tavern goers would pass buy to give freely their purses and jewels. Surveying his target ahead of him, DarkLotus had been charged with a task from the one that called him assistant. Exactly what he assisted in however ranged from small meaningless tasks to the larger and more important jobs such as the one he was asked to do tonight. Armed only with his wits, a dagger, and a shield, he stuck to the shadows. He would need to remain as stealthy as possible if he could and being under the cover of darkness it made his job easier. Not to mention that the guards of this town were either lazy or had fallen asleep from a lack of excitement. He knew at day break tomorrow no one would know of what went down until his Lord had arrived in his new home. Tonight, Bunbatty Castle would be his.

”Halt! Who goes arggghhhhh…” How easily he manipulated the mans life, hopefully it was quiet enough to not have blown his cover. He had been watching the man walk the outside of the castle for a while and timed it perfectly, all he needed to do now is get passed the two guards covering the entrance and he would be in. Quietly he exchanged wardrobe with the now deceased guard and tossed the body in the hedges. The armor was slightly big on him but it was enough to fool the simple minded guards that currently watch over the castle. After cleaning the small spatter of blood from the chain mail tunic, he took a deep breath and approached the gates.

”Evenin’ gents, I was told to speak to the men at the gate. Tonight be my first night on the job and I really do wish to be on time. Might you open the gates for me?” He offered them both one of his most innocent smiles. ”Who gave ye the orders to see us young guard?” Orders? What did he mean orders? He stammered a bit and noticed the guard to his left reaching for the hilt of his sword. Quickly he drew his dagger from the belt and brought it against the neck of the guard his other hand held the already dead guards sword. ”Terribly sorry...my orders come from the man who will be moving into this castle once you are no longer here. Goodnight.” It was over in two quick motions.

He knew better than to walk straight in the front due to the guards on the inside of the doors that he had noticed earlier in the day when he was eyeing the place. Slightly off to the left side of the castle there had been a servant’s door that he noticed so he crept over there and tried the handle. It was locked but with one swift motion he was able to spring the lock and the door creaked open. Cautiously, he stuck his head inside and had a look around. There were many noticeable shadows and places he could hide as he dispatched guards one by one and he used them all to his advantage.

As the night carried on and day began to break, he had searched every single room, hall, and secret passage he knew of. No one had been spared except for a few staff that pleaded for their lives. In exchange for their life, they were in charge of disposing of the bodies and cleaning up the mess he made in the night. To keep them silent about what they had witnessed, he carried off a sack full of tongues. Everything was ready and perfect for his Lord’s arrival.

Peering off into the distance he saw the shrouded man on the large black horse approaching. Dropping to one knee he welcomed the man. ”Greetings Milord, your new home is ready for you. I do hope you find it to your liking. Will your Lady be home later on tonight?”

[Aasha]

Donnor approached the castle on the horses back at a steady pace, after their arrival in Ireland he felt it would be wise to get an extra horse for Aasha even though she always managed to take Midnight with her. His tired assistant had done his job and now greeted him at the gates to his new home. He examined the outside of the castle and smiled approvingly. ”Yes, I believe this will do just fine. Aasha should be here later on. Now please my friend, get on your feet and let us go inside for some breakfast. After your long night I am sure you are starved and in need of rest.”

As the large wooden doors creaked open, he escorted the horse inside and looked around at his surroundings with a smile. The castle looked bigger up close and he could not wait for Aasha to return to find out they would no longer be staying in the one room Inn. ”Lead the way to the kitchen and I shall prepare you a good breakfast as my way of saying thanks.”

Leaving the horse tied outside, he followed as Lotus led them through the dining hall of the castle and into the kitchen. He found everything with ease in the fully stocked kitchen and was soon finished with making them breakfast. Once breakfast was finished, he cleared the table as Lotus wandered off to find a place to sleep then went back outside to groom the horse as he waited for Aasha to arrive. He left her a very clear note back at the Inn on where to go and expected her to have no trouble finding the place.

[Aasha]

The trip to Cill Chaoi had been a success. Aasha couldn't hide the silly grin plastered on her face, Athorgate's reaction to her request still had her laughing. She couldn't wait to tell Donnor all about it...that and present him with the very large donation she had collected on her way back. Sliding off Midnight almost before the horse stopped, she patted the horse and whispered a promise to be back, fully intending on rubbing her down after talking to Donnor. Grabbing the heavy saddlebags, the girl ran into the Inn, heading straight up to the tiny room they had been living out of since arriving in Inis. Or at least that was the plan. The innkeeper's voice calling out to her changed that quickly.

Milady Aasha right?

Her eyebrow raised as she approached warily, scanning the room for threats. Who knew she was here? Had one of their enemies from England followed them? Aye, I'd be Aasha...whatcha wantin' wit' me?

Your gentleman friend left you a note milady.

A note? Why'd he be leavin' me a note? He ain't heres? Taking the note, she turned away, slowly walking back towards Midnight. The horse was still standing where she'd left her, looking indignant. She'd not seen that expression on a horse before, and wondered if the poor girl was missing the sound of breaking bones as she ran over stable boys.

Aasha replaced the saddlebags, then began to read the note. Dir'cti'ns? Ain't tellin' me much is he Midnight? Hmm...castle... Eyes twinkling with mirth, Aasha remounted Midnight, then began to follow the directions he'd given. It wasn't hard to find, Inis wasn't exactly teeming with castles. There were fresh hoof prints visible, the girl followed them through the gates and around to the stables, sliding off Midnight's back much more sedately the second time.

The soft knicker of another horse told her she wasn't alone. Scanning the room, the girl saw Donnor, his hands running a curry comb through the horses mane. Three days was too long without him, her imagination put her curves under his hands as he gently traced...

Shaking her head before the images could fully form, she dropped the reins and whispered in Midnight's ear. The horse seemed to understand, making not a sound as Aasha unsheathed her dagger before silently slipping behind her fiancé. Her face reflected mischievous delight as she slid the blade through the material of his britches, cutting the seam. A husky whisper broke the silence; Ain't ya 'posed to be lettin' some air gets to yer tattoo love?

[Aasha]

He was hoping she would enjoy the horse, he got it as a gift for her and it was practically a steal. Standing there combing the mane of the horse, he was taken back when his pants dropped to the floor and he heard her voice. With a grin he quickly spun around and wrapped his arms around her. ”What and risk someone seeing it without you here to take care of it? Now that you are home perhaps I will walk around without the pants more often.” He could feel a nudge in his back and realized he had forgotten all about the other horse. Taking Aasha’s hand in his he motioned at the young horse and turned back with a smile. ”While you were gone I got you a little gift. Midnight is slightly too big for you and it worries me when you take her so I got you this one, all you need to do is name her.”

He was really excited to give the horse to her though was slightly upset by the fact that she had already seen it. As long as she was happy that was all that mattered he thought to himself as he reached into the pocket of his shirt and pulled the flask out. He tipped it back and took a long pull from it before offering it to Aasha. ”Well what do you think of her, love? I got a great deal on her, one could say she was free.” He gave her a wicked grin and waited for her response.

[Aasha]

Her hands reflexively went around his neck when he wrapped his arms around her. Leaning up on tiptoe, she kissed him hard, her fingertips gently caressing the back of his neck. Her nose wrinkled at the mention of someone else seeing, she'd not thought of that when she teased. But they were alone, other than the horses, and she knew they had no interest in him. Ya knows I likes ya wit'out pants. Long as nobody else'll be seein'...

Appreciation filled her eyes as they wandered down his body. The images that came to mind brought heat to her cheeks before she raised her eyes back to his. She'd begun to lean closer until he took her hand and turned to the horse behind him. Ya dun gots to worry 'bout me love. I knows lots 'bout horses, an' big or no, Midnights nae gonna throw me. His concern warmed her, she wasn't used to anyone caring about her like he did.

Sliding closer to the mare, Aasha let her free hand brush through the mane, feeling the power in the neck as the horse turned to look at her. The girl had been around horses enough to see that this one would have cost quite a bit, had Donnor not gotten her for free. She had a pretty good idea of what his idea of free was too, though she couldn't help but tease a little. Free? I'm bettin' yer the only one whats callin' it free... Giggling softly, she looked up at Donnor and smiled. She's beaut'ful...ya didna name her yet?

Aasha'd only ever named one animal before. Based on other's reactions to the name, she wasn't sure she was all too good at it, but she wasn't one to pass up the opportunity. She sensed when Midnight caught the mare's scent, his nostrils flaring when he moved closer to investigate. Didya gets her fer me or fer Midnight? I ain't sure he's nae gonna likes her more'n I am. Seeing the contrast of the grey against Midnight's black, she pictured the rolling clouds in the sky before it rained.

Turning, she wrapped her arms around his waist, letting her fingers trail across his bum. Storm...her name'll be Storm. An' now I'm owin' ya prop'r thanks fer 'er. Stepping forward, she ignored the horses as her body came full against his. I missed ya love.

[Aasha]

He smirked at her comment about him being without pants. ”I know I need not worry, but I still do.” He smiled and stepped to the side, allowing her to approach the horse more easily. ”What is free to me most likely was not free for someone else…and surely someone is missing her.” He grinned mischievously as he heard her giggle. He figured it would be best for Aasha to name the mare in order to secure a proper bond between the two of them. He watched as Midnight moved closer and then heard Aasha’s comment and laughed. ”No love, I got her for you. However I am sure Midnight and her will become closer than I thought considering I had not even thought of the effect it would have on the two of them.”

He watched Aasha a bit longer, as she watched the two horses together before turning to wrap her arms around him. Raising his arms he pulled her closer into an embrace and smiled. ”Storm is a mighty fine name, I am glad you like her.” He paused long enough to lean down and kiss her gently before pulling away. ”Yes it has been a while since I received any attention and a proper thanks would be wonderful.” He walked backwards towards the back of the stables where the straw was kept. ”I missed you as well, now come with me so I can show you how much.” He whispered with a grin.

[Aasha]

Basking in his approval of the name, she murmured huskily; Yah...I likes her. Yer gonna spoil me gettin' me stuff all the times. Ya knows ya dun gots to do that. I'm yers no matt'r...an' I dun need more'n jus' you... She wanted nothing more than to press against him and deepen the kiss, but before she could he pulled away.

I bett'r be the only one yer wantin' 'tention from... Aasha teased, though it was just that. Her confidence in his feelings, and herself had grown enough that she had no real worries in that regard. She was secure with him, a feeling she never imagined would be part of any relationship she was in. Her eyes twinkled as she looked up, brushing the tips of her fingers across his lips as the other hand gently pinched his bum. I'd be happy to be showin' ya how much I missed ya too...an' how much I'm needin' ya Donnor...

As he gently guided her down into the hay, they reacquainted themselves with each other, the only sounds for hours the restlessness of the horses, and the soft moans coming from the corner of the barn.

[Aasha]

(OOC: Major time jump)

It had been several months since they were married and many events had passed. Aasha started attending classes at the local university. He had led an army from one end of Munster to the other causing wanton destruction. Aasha had gotten pregnant and then soon after, abducted and beaten badly causing her to lose the child and making her incapable of reproduction. The man that haunted her dreams for many years now was turned into a nice footstool for someone most likely by their dear friend Siggie. Now at the current time Aasha was leading an army of faithful soldiers due to being betrayed by our own home. The army had taken down two enemy armies with quickness and minimal losses. Now they had returned home during a time of peace to engage in negotiations. They were tired but their will to fight still raged inside of them.

He turned to her as they arrived inside the castle walls and an exhausted smile stretched across his face. His body was sore and weary from travel, and Midnights health had really gone down hill with all the marching. A good long rest would be in order for him to get his health back. Jumping down from the horse he led it to the stables and went back to Aasha.

”Come my love, let’s give them some rest and go inside for a nice warm meal.” With a smile he lifted her to the ground and together the led Storm into the stables with Midnight. The two horses were as inseparable as he and Aasha he though to himself each time he saw them together. Once the horses were locked in for the night he scooped Aasha into his arms and kissed her with a fiery passion before carrying her into the castle. ”We can eat first, or we can go and have a little private time first. It seems like it has been so long since that night in the barn when you first got Storm so you know what I want to do. Plus we still do not know what we will be doing after tonight.”

There was a sparkle in his eyes and the excitement growing inside of him was far too noticeable for her not to see it. He ignored the rumble in his stomach as he tugged at her hand without waiting for her to say whether she wanted to eat first or play first. Grinning he led her back towards the staircase and paused just incase she really was more hungry than excited.

[Aasha]

She had never been as weary as she was now. It felt like they hadn't seen their home for years, though only a few months had passed. The responsibility of leading an army was much more taxing than she'd ever imagined. She had great respect for how Donnor had lead them, and hoped she had done even half as well...

Pulled from her musings by the sound of her husband's voice, she watched him jump from Midnight's back and disappear from sight. His smile lingered in her mind even after he left, the exhaustion on his face easy to see. Leaning forward, she rubbed Storm's head, whispering her thanks for the mare's endurance the last few months. Time fer ya to rest fer a while girl...ya earned it.

She had barely straightened before he returned. Placing her hands on his shoulders, Aasha let him lift her off, her fingers lingering on his neck. Her calves protested standing after riding so long, but she ignored the pull to turn with Donnor and lead the horse into the stables. Her gait was a bit unsteady, though she tried hard not to let it show. The welcoming nicker from Midnight made her smile, Storm's answering one brought on a soft laugh. Nae sure they'll be restin' fer a bit..but yah, I'm ready to be headin' in.

Wrapping her arms securely around his neck, she returned the passion, letting her lips linger much as her fingers had earlier. As he walked, she nuzzled into the hollow of his neck, taking a deep breath.The scents of their long journey, mixed with the underlying masculine smell she associated with him, comforting in its familiarity.

Aasha didn't even try to hide her disappointment as he put her down, though she could feel how he wanted her to answer as their bodies brushed. Her voice came out almost a growl when he tugged without letting her answer, or react properly. I canna bel've ya needs to ask... She was tempted to dig in her heels and change her mind, but her own needs betrayed her with the sight of their clasped hands, the memories of the evening in the stables making her body tingle with awareness.

She was glad when he paused, using the moment to her advantage. Aasha pressed herself against him, leaning up on tiptoe, her eyes glimmering with mischievous delight. Didna ya say ya was hungry? Placing a light kiss on his chest, she whispered huskily; Tis been too long since we could be 'lone all nights...nae havin' to worry 'bout someone comin' in needin' somethin'. Tavern floors an' bedrolls isna the same... Tugging gently but insistently on his shirt to pull him down, Aasha leaned further against him, raising her lips to his.

[Aasha]

His smile beamed at her answer as he picked her up and threw her onto his shoulder. Turning quickly he ran up the stairs to their room. Finally up the stairs he carried her to the room and closed the door before going around the room and closing all the shutters on the windows. Anything he could do to keep the sunlight from spilling into the room. It was their time to be alone and uninterrupted and he damn well knew he wanted to use it well.

====================Several hours later====================

He rolled over and placed his arm over hers gently. She had fallen fast asleep after their scene of passion. Sighing contently he allowed his mind to wander for once in so long. It was nice to be able to think of other things besides fighting and commanding and platoon orders. As he thought quietly to himself, he thought about how interesting his life truly was and sat straight up in bed with an idea. He had to share this idea with someone so he placed his hand on Aasha’s hip and began to shake it rapidly. ”Wake up Aasha, I have to tell you something important. Wake up my love.” Impatiently he shook her faster and faster until he heard a quiet moan come from her. ”Are you awake yet my love?”

[Aasha]

She found a renewed sense of energy when he threw her over his shoulder, giggling even as she playfully wiggled in his embrace. They both forgot everything but each other, indulging in a hunger that never seemed to abate. Finally exhausted, Aasha drifted off into the first peaceful night's sleep they'd had since their respective armies had begun marching.

====================Several hours later====================

She was sleeping dreamless, wrapped in his warmth and not wanting to move, let alone open her eyes. It had been so long since she'd indulged herself fully, Aasha fought hard to say asleep. Nuzzling into Donnor's chest, she mumbled; nae 'wake love...sleepin'... He was insistent though, even as she fought it she could feel her body awakening to his nearness. A soft moan escaped as she stretched like a kitten, then growled under her breath.

A sense of panic struck when his words finally sank in. Sitting up abruptly, she scanned the room, her hand searching for the daggers they normally kept by the bed. In her disorientation from the deep sleep, her searching fingers collided with Donnor's waist rather than the nightstand. Jarred fully awake by then, she let the tension seep from her shoulders seeing only the two of them in the room. Aye...I'm 'wake...ya shouldna scares me likes that. Is somethin' wrong?

[Donnor]

He leaned back slightly as she sat up, obviously startled. He placed his hand on her thigh and talked gently. ”Nothing is wrong love, I am sorry I scared you it’s just I was lying here in bed letting my thoughts race as usual and I got an idea about something I want to do. I have had a rather strange life, filled with adventures and surprises and I think I want to write about them. What I mean is I want to write a story about myself.” He paused as he thought about the idea a little more. ”I do not know what gave me the idea, I am guessing it is just something to do when we are not off leading a force. It would give me something to do while we are at home.”

Grabbing Aasha, he fell backwards against his pillow and pulled her until she was on top of him. ”So what do you think love, does it sound like a good idea or no?” He placed his hands on each side of her and pulled her down until her head was resting on his chest. The warmth of her breath blowing against him put his mind at ease as he waited for her response.

[Aasha]

His hand on her thigh helped calm her further, bringing her heartbeat under control, and loosening that edge of panic she was still holding onto. She listened to him and tried to imagine the need to write something that could prove to be long, then smiled tenderly. I'd likes ta read it if'n ya'd lets me. Would be nice ta learns more'n more 'bout yer life, an' what made ya the man I loves now. Canna see me doin' it...is lotsa writin'...I ain't too good at that, even if'n I am bett'r'n I was.

She had twisted slightly as she spoke, wanting to look into his eyes. Giggling huskily as he pulled her down atop him, she nuzzled into his bare chest, taking a deep breath and allowing his scent to surround her. Seeing no reason to resist temptation, especially this close, she flicked her tongue across his skin. Sounds likes a good 'dea love...though I'm hopin' that ain't all yer gonna be doin' at home wit' me...

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