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Post by King Adam Aberdeen I on Nov 11, 2008 12:19:46 GMT -6
Hotaro
Adam Aberdeen: William had been arrested as decreed… but something occurred before that, he did not expect… a slumped over man, with a limp and one finger missing delivered some documents to the Court Scribe, and asking they be entered into Court papers… Upon the Scribe seeing the seal of the High Scholar, took them to Lord Adam… Upon opening the letters, Adam shook his head and handed them back to the Scribe… “Enter them…” was all he said… then the Scribe read them and looked back to Adam who sat contemplating…
Then he gave the order to arrest Lord Maubrey… and send Lady Kaori to Council immediately… The Fly had fallen prey to the Spider….
Adam sat in the council chambers, the documents in hand... His hand rubbed his chin in contemplation... he awaited the Lady Kaori presence... He had her summoned to appear before council immediately... His decision to arrest Maubrey carried out... only to have the concerning documents delivered to him shortly thereafter....
Kaori Hotaro: Kay was shown to the council chambers quickly enough, and she entered quietly, smiling at the duke as her eyes caught sight of him. She seemed almost relieved to be there. She was relieved to simply be Kaori again and to feel free to smile for simple reasons such as the sight of a friend or sovereign or in some instances, both. "Timing notwithstanding, it's good to be back," Kay said, bowing since she was still in the garb of a geisha. It just wouldn't do to curtsey in a kimono.
Adam Aberdeen: Adam did not smile... he did not frown... his expression was one of concern.... and as she approached... his fingers flicked, the guards standing behind her. "Lady Kaori..." he finally looked at her... "Yae 'ave been summoned to Court to answer questions..." He looks to the valet and holds out the documents... "Give those to the Lady..." The valet then takes the documents and moves to the Lady... kneeling, he extends the documents to her....
* One document, with the seal of the High Scholar, was one implementing information of the Brooch... its power implications and its ownership by the MacRauri... the document was written to Lord Maubrey and sealed by her ringed seal...
* The other was a schedule of the Royal Marshal, Lord Eamonn... and a location of a shooter's position... again to Maubrey and sealed with the High Seal...
* The last document was a written letter of fealty to England... and professing love for Lord Maubrey... again addressing Maubrey... sealed by the ring of the High Scholar...
Adam looked at Kaori... concern in his eyes....
Kaori Hotaro: Well, that was a fine how do you do! Why was this audience so... official? Her smile faltered, a sort of puzzled look crossing her face as her head cokeed. The smile was still there, now just a bit confused. Had she missed something during her short absence? She took the documents and took a second to read the first. There was no expression at first as her eyes quickly drifted left to right, reading each line. It was when her eyes found the seal, however, that the blood seemed to rush from her face. Her breath caught for a moment, and when she did finally catch her breath, her breasts started to rise and fall with rapid, labored inhales. Her eyes grew wider as she moved to the next page, and then the next. She seemed incapable of speech as she stared at that seal... at her seal!!! She looked up at the duke imploringly and then back at the pages in her hand. Finally, in a voice small with a mixture of shock and fear, she said, "But I've never seen these documents in all my life! I'd never..." She just trailed off, unable to fathom what she was holding. She wanted them out of her hands. The papers felt dirty to her.
Adam Aberdeen: "Lady Koari..." he used the formality instead of the usual informal addressing her... "Ah am upon a dilemma that concerns mae... Charges o' treason an' subversion against the realm 'as been levied agin yae... Dae yae understand the concern Ah face naew...?" he was erect in his chair, elevated above the floor... this was so official... and she could see the concern in his expression... to the side, a scribe continued to write... guards stood close by... "How dae yae plead agin the charges?”
Kaori Hotaro: Her eyes widened as she suddenly looked around the room. This was no audience... this was a trial! She couldn't understand what she was looking at, lines creasing her forehead as she stared at these papers. It was unimaginable to her. Kaori, so concerned with honor and fealty, charged with... with treason! With his question, her eyes closed for a moment and she tried to swallow, what should have been a simple maneuver making an audible click. Her tongue slipped out to wet parched lips before she opened her eyes once more. Meeting the Duke's she quietly said, "Innocent." It was all she could manage at the moment.
Adam Aberdeen: Adam seemed to smile... he wanted to... but he knew the severity of the accusations... "Koari..." he addressed her personally... "This is concernable in these days an' times... Ah am at a discernable point 'ere... Ah either must incarcerate you in prison... awaiting a full trial... or set you free... as finding yae innocent.... but Maubrey 'as brought this to light... He has been arrested on charge of treason... and 'e wishes tae brign daewn my Court..." he looks away, motioning to the valet to retrieve the papers... "Dis mae be a passing thought baet Lord Maubrey sees dis as a tool... Look at it this way... if I set yae free... he shall claim favoritism tae the court.... and press upon that to my dissenters... AND, if'en Ah incarerate yae... he would press 'pon how coprrupt mae court is... 'specially since yae are naet Scot..." he looks down... then back at her... "Sae yae see wot concerns Ah 'ave... tis mae utmost apologies faer getting yae inta all dis..." he looks directly at her.... "Stay strong... and all shall bae well... falter baet once... and yae may well see the gallows...." Adam tries to smile in reassurance for her.
Kaori Hotaro: She appreciated his attempts at reassurance and his desire to regard her as a friend at this time. She really did. But the severity of what was happening to her now was to great. She was still appalled at the idea of being charged with treason when she was so devoted... The gallows? Ah, that's right. Execution was the only way to deal with treason. Her eyes met his unflinchingly as he spoke, her posture never dropping. She handed the papers back to the valet and actually wiped her hands on her obi without realizing she was about to do it. "My strength, much like my allegiance, shall not falter," she said pointedly. "So whilst avoiding the gallows, where will you have me?" She had no desire to be incarcerated, but it was better than being put to death. She thought back to the carriage ride there. She was looking forward to having her children returned to her... To seeing Marcos and being enveloped in a comforting hug. Those expectations were so distant now. As she stood there, she couldn't help but wonder how she could have been so stupid as to let Lord William Maubrey get the best of her.
Adam Aberdeen: Adam looked to the scribe... "Ah shall defer sentencing pending furth'r examination o' the charges... The accused will be remanded to her quarters in Grffin Castle…" Then he looked back to Kaori and the guards... motioning his hand, he sent the guards away... "Clear the room....Close the doors... Ah wish tae speak wit the Lady Koari... no on enters... no one leaves..." By his command, the scribe collected his utensils... and left by the side door... the guards saluted and left by the main entrance... Adam then stepped down and approached Kaori...
Kaori Hotaro: Once the room was emptied, Kay looked around as if expecting to see someone hiding. When she turned back to the Duke, she shook her head, looking hopeless. "My lord, you know these were not of my device. Please say you believe that." Her eyes were beseeching. Kaori had been the brunt of a lot of cruelty in her life, but never had anyone challenged her honor and integrity. This was easily the cruelest accusation she was ever faced with.
Adam Aberdeen: Adam approached her, his official business aside... he hugs her and allows her head to his shoulder... "Ah knaew Koari... Ah knaew yae did nun o' this... tis mae fault yaer at this point... baet Ah ne'r suspected William tae use yae agin mae..." his hand strokes her long black hair... "Tis unfortunate... Officially, yae shall be remanded tae yaer quarters, pending trial..." then he lifts her chin and sea-green eyes looks at deep brown orbs... "Listen true... " he whispers in her ear as he hugs her... "After yae 'ave been confind tae yaer quarters... at the eleventh toll of the night by the clock tower... slip out... Guards shall naet see... Find Marcos... flee 'pon his ship... take a falconeer wit yae... and stay at sea til yae hear from mae... we shall deal wit the charges later... Dae yae understand mae fully..." Then he leans down and kisses her... something he had never done before… a bit out of character... but what did it matter now... He cared deeply for his Scholar... and so did his wife... His fingers at her chin... "Gae naew... the guards will escort yae tae yaer quarters... dae as Ah say... and things shall bae alright... Use the library... find all yae can tae aid in yaer defense..." he smirked... and his eyes blinked at her.
He too was committing a crime but extreme circumstances called for extreme measures… and he was not about to let his Father get the upper hand and threaten his court.
Kaori Hotaro: She was surprised by the embrace, but she welcomed it all the same. At such a moment she needed comfort and coming from a friend, she was grateful for it. The hug prompted a little moisture beneath her eyes, but she was quick to put a stopper on the tears. If anything, she knew people saw tears as a sign of guilt. When he whispered to her, she listened closely, her eyes widening. If nothing else proved he believed in her, that did. And that was what meant the most to her. This kiss was something of a shock, but a gesture she returned, knowing exactly what the kiss represented and not mistaking it for something it wasn't. She nodded and started away, but quickly rushed back and quietly said, "Don't accept the blame for this. I accepted the charge. I accept the consequences. I would do it again for my home... and I'd do it again for you." Managing a small smile she turned and rushed back to the door, making sure all traces of neither tears nor smiles were gone from her face before letting the guard escort her away.
Adam Aberdeen: Adam watched as she left... soft short curses for his Father would be emitted, allowing none to hear... Looking up to the ceiling... "God, Ah knaew Ah speak not tae yae as much as yae'd have mae... baet, tis best yae watch out foaer th innocent... this lass 'as dun nothing baet wot Ah ask of 'er..." he did not speak prayers too often... and proclaims no preference publically as to religion... be the fact that he trusted not what any man could corrupt... he did believe in higher powers... and this once he asked not for himself... but for a friend... and loyal member of his court... then he moved back thru the side door toward his own chambers. |
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Post by hotarokaori on Nov 12, 2008 17:07:14 GMT -6
It was a somber march to her quarters. The guards said nothing to her and she said nothing to them. She could tell, at least, that they derived no pleasure from the march. Kay was well-known by many of the people who worked there, a familiar face. Kaori was trying to consider what she needed to do when a miracle occurred. “Kaori?” She looked over to see Lloyd, one of the scholars she had worked closely with, watching with a puzzled expression. Looking to the guards, she simply asked, “Please?” executing the most lethal set of puppy dog eyes the Nihonnin could deploy.
One of the guards sighed and gestured for her to go on, rolling his eyes. Given permission, she took a few paces over to Lloyd and threw her arms around him, hugging him as if he were her best friend on Earth, positively scandalizing him. He patted her back uncertainly but as she started to whisper very quietly to him, he returned the hug, listening close. “In the library find any piece of paper that has William Maubrey’s name on it and meet me outside the front gates at 11:15 tonight. Don’t tell anyone what you’re doing, please!”
“That’s enough, Lady Hotaro, let’s go.”
“Kaori, what’s going on?”
“You’ll find out soon enough,” she said quietly, certain the rumors would start flying well before 11:00.
She was sent to her quarters, and she did at least have a couple changes of clothes there. She removed her kimono, obi and juban, exchanging it all for a casual skirt and blouse. Despite the problems that now weighed upon her, she at least felt more like herself and less like the geisha. Her geta were exchanged for comfortable shoes and she took a few strides about her temporary prison, just to feel herself walking once more. Then came the difficult task of waiting. She tried to nap, but she was too nervous and too upset. All she could do was think.
William Maubrey got the best of her. There was no refuting it. And she had been foolish to think she might be able to get him. No, he had her. He played the better game, and he won it. Check and mate. The randy old codger wasn’t just smart. He was bloody brilliant. And the worst of it was… Kaori had actually liked him! Oh, she had recognized he was a horrible man doing horrible things, but the truth of it was, he had reminded her of her father. Him! That honorless, gaijin bastard had reminded her of chichi! At one point she had gotten so mad about it she had kicked a chair over just for the door to her quarters to open and a nasty look given to her from a guard. “No funny business in here!” She had righted the chair and sat down, thinking. The waiting was torture.
At 6:00 she was at least brought a meal of soup and bread. The chamber maid had nothing to say however. She had eaten her meal and the tray was taken at 7:00, again with no words despite Kaori’s quiet, “Thank you.” Kaori spent some time folding her kimono. At 8:00 she started to work on origami. At 9:00 she wasted some time on some very unproductive tears. By 10:00 she was simply angry again. And by 11:00 the anger had mixed with adrenaline and turned into rage.
As soon as the bell started its toll, Kaori threw a cloak on and lifted the hood. As soon as the 11th bell chimed, she opened the door and stuck her head out. Her eyes closed and she took just the briefest second to thank the Kami for Adam and wish him well. And then like a streak she was rushing down the hall, pausing to peek around the corner and make sure it was empty. She was heading for the nearest door to the grounds. If she could make it outside, she felt she could better hide in shadows and avoid patrolling guards. She had no idea how she could be so lucky, but she never encountered a soul. Reaching a set of doors that led outside, she was quick to get off the pathways and hide behind bushes and trees as she made her way around to the front gates, sometimes staying hidden as she heard a guard on the walkway or hesitating if she thought she heard someone.
Of course, reaching the front gates posed a new problem. Would they just let her pass? Wouldn’t they want to know why a young woman was leaving the castle at this hour? She hoped she’d get lucky as she started to pass through with her head low, but of course a guard started to approach her. “Milady? Why-“ Before he could finish the question, a voice suddenly said, “Elizabeth?” sounding angry and accusing. “What took you so long?! You know we have to get these documents moved, and at this late hour! Get on with you, make haste!” Lloyd grabbed Kaori by the elbow and started to usher her away. The guard shrugged and moved back to his post as Lloyd kept walking quickly with Kaori.
As soon as they were out of earshot and eyeshot he grabbed Kay’s arms so she was looking at him, completely choking off the gratitude she had been about to express. “What in the name of God is going on? Do you know what’s being said?”
“It’s not true,” she said, looking himdead in the eye. She was surprised to see disbelief. “Lloyd, you know me. I-“
“I don’t know you!” he spat, glaring at her. “The woman I knew wasn’t stupid enough to ever find herself in this position! I can’t even believe I did this for you.” He lifted a satchel off his shoulder and shoved it at her. “I'd be thrown in the dungeon for helping you. And I’d deserve it.”
“Then turn me in,” Kaori said quietly.
He hesitated and then said, “I didn’t say I wanted to get thrown in the dungeon. Get away from me, and so help me if you get caught…”
“I never saw you. Thank you, Lloyd,” she said quietly, wondering what had been said to inspire such anger. Then again, if he had heard the truth of her position and believed it, what better could she expect?
With that she walked swiftly away, keeping off the main roads and sticking to allies and shadows, wondering why she had at one time thought living on the opposite side of Turas Lan was a good idea. She had to try and get home and find Marcos before her disappearance from the castle was discovered.
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Post by hotarokaori on Nov 25, 2008 16:26:39 GMT -6
By the time she reached the docks she was out of breath and shivering. Every tiny noise made her jump, every moving shadow was a guard closing in on her. Hearing a few slurred voices heading her direction, she kept her head low and walked quickly, trying to keep to shadows. The hood of her cloak concealed her face well, but it didn't feel like enough. Kay never liked sticking out like a sore thumb, but she had never had a reason to hide who she was. She wished she could become invisible at this time.
Her escape hadn't been too difficult. True to the duke's word, there was no one stationed outside her quarters after the 11th toll of the clock bell. She knew the castle well, and despite the fact she had been terrified out of her mind, she found the nearest door to the grounds and made her way outside. She felt less visible outside, and was sure to keep to shadows and keep her head down.
Reaching the gates that led away from the castle, Kaori was concerned. Would the guards stop her? Just as she was passing through one of the guards looked at her and started to head in her direction. "Milady? Why-" Before he could get another word in, Lloyd Conn came rushing up to her saying, "Elizabeth? What took you so long! You know we need to get these documents moved, and at this late hour! Get on with you!" The guard shrugged her off and moved back to his station as Lloyd grabbed Kaori by the elbow and quickly started to usher her away.
Lloyd, though displeased with helping a soon-to-be fugitive, was willing to do Kaori this one favor. She had gratefully encountered him while being taken to her quarters and had managed to whisper a quick set of instructions as she embraced him: "In the library find any piece of paper that has William Maubrey's name on it and meet me with them outside the front gates at 11:15 tonight. Don't tell anyone what you're doing, please!" He had found her two books and a small array of documents, all of which were placed in a satchel he transferred to her as soon as they were out of eyesight. Hopefully in the end he'd understand he had helped the right cause.
Of course, before considering the end, she had to get away. Kay didn't like living in the hustle and bustle of the city. She lived on the outskirts. She had a lot of walking to do, and she dared not keep to the main roads. Instead she skirted down allies and stayed in shadows, looking carefully before darting from location to location. It took just over an hour, but she managed to get home.
She was relieved at first, but after finding the key she kept hidden under a rock by the rose bushes, it was easy to see the house was quite empty. That meant Marcos was probably at the ship. She only prayed that was the case. Keeping the house dark she ran upstairs. She had changed into a skirt and pair of shoes more comfortable for walking in her quarters at the castle, but she was quick to gather a number of things to take with her. Abandoning finery, she simply took a couple of skirts, shirts, and then the tabi and clothing she used when working on her swordsmanship and fighting. Last, grabbing a sturdy walking stick out of her wardrobe, she abandoned her home. At the front door she turned suddenly, walking to a basket that had a couple of the babies' toys. Picking up a teddy bear they often fought over, she gave it two kisses, one for each of her children, and then fled. They would be well taken care of. That she was at least confident of.
Reaching the docks, however, seemed to seep her of whatever strength she had left. She was exhausted. She was cold. She was frightened. Thankfully, the planks set up for La Nereida were still in place, she supposed so that the crew could easily get to and from the inn to unwind. In no time she was on the deck of the ship. She supposed the man on deck she heard snoring was the one who was supposed to be keeping watch and she thanked the Kami he was a very poor choice as a night watchman. Silently, she slipped below deck and made her way to the Captain's quarters.
She knocked on the door, but her anticipation got the best of her. She opened the door, tears already sliding down her face. "Marcos," she quietly spoke into the dark room... and a moment later a thud was heard as she passed out.[/color][/font]
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Post by hotarokaori on Nov 25, 2008 17:20:39 GMT -6
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos was in bed asleep and had been for only a short time. Though even in a short amount of time he was a heavy sleeper and when he first heard the knock, it only stirred him. It wasn't until he heard his name and a loud thump that had him sitting upright and then sliding from his bed to the floor. A candle was lit and soon he found himself kneeling down as arm circled around his Kaori. Half her body cradled in his arm as he held her to him, a hand moving to sweep away the hair from her face. "Kaori! Mi amor... awaken...por favor... what happened?!" He began to say as his mind was flooded with so many worries and concerns. Not all were easily expressed as he continued to talk to get her to open her eyes. "Kaori... speak to me..." <d
Warden Hotaro: The woman was out cold before she even hit the ground. Not even considering all the emotion of the evening, she had made it clear across Turas Lan on foot to her home with a satchel slung across her and a heavy traveling cloak to conceal her features. Then when she got home not only had she packed up a heavy traveling sack with a study wooden walking stick strapped to its side, she had then managed to make it to the docks and onto the ship. Needless to say, the girl had been through an ordeal and it was a bit much for her body to handle. With Marcos' urging, however, a soft sound escaped her throat, her breathing becoming a bit more pronounced and her body shifting just a bit. She was starting to snap out of it, but it was taking a few moments for her body to remind her she needed to wake up... needed to inform Marcos of just what was going on. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Dressed in only a pair of cropped sleeping pants, he could feel just how cold the outside air was as the chill clung to her clothes and skin. The heat that radiated from his body had to be of some help to her tiny frame. His arms never loosened their hold on her even as she finally began to stir. Dark intense brown eyes took note of all the things she brought with her before he looked to her again and asked "Kaori! wake...tell me... what is the meaning of all this?!" Then he hollard once more, this time the direction of his voice toward the door. "Bella! Pierre!" Having called for a couple of his crew, the two were quick to appear. Marcos' eyes drifted from them to Kaori and back. "Gather the men, keep watch... something is muy wrong. Guard La Nereida like nunca before...comprende?!" Both nodded and disappeared to carry out their Captains orders as he redirected his attention to Kaori once more. A hand stroking the side of her face to help bring her out of that deep state of unconsciousness.<d
Warden Hotaro: At long last, with a protesting sort of whimper leaving her mouth, her eyes started to move beneath her eye lids. She shifted once more in his harms, and long lashes fluttered as she started to open her eyes. They remained open only narrowly as she quietly said, "Marcos?" She looked both relieved and confused for a moment, as if she wasn't sure how she had gotten there. The confusion was only momentary, however, as her breath suddenly caught. Her eyes suddenly opened wider as a new surge of adrenaline suddenly sobered her. "Marcos, I have to hide. By... by morning they'll be searching for me." It was difficult getting those words and once she had her eyes instantly filled with tears that started to quickly slip from the corners of her eyes and toward her ears. Finding some strength, though her legs felt like jelly, she managed to lean upward and bring her arms around him, needing to hug him. She was uncertain of what would be happening soon. She had been told to have Marcos take her away, but how could she jeopardize his position in such a way? She could handle running, but the last thing she wanted to do was bring the man she loved down with her. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Obviously there were some pieces of this puzzle still missing. Though, to see his Kaori like this and carrying the items she did along with the words she just spoke, all sorts of red flags went up. He held her to him, his arms held their hold on her as his hands slide to help support her on her upper and lower back. The tears she had cried worried him and he looked to the door once more to see his first mate Collin standing there. There was a look on Marcos' face that only few knew the meaning to and with only a nod from the Captain, Collin knew very well what it meant. The door was closed as Collin began to shout out the orders. The words were muffled due to the wooden door but one could here him yell. "Hoist the anchor! Prepare ta set sail ye dogs!" Marcos returned his eyes to Kaori as he gently and slowly pulled himself from her to look at her. "Kaori... who will be looking for you and why?" He asked, he didn't need her answers to already sense the danger coming. He just needed to know as so what to prepare for... to simply flee or to battle. Those arms would scoop her up and he moved her to the bed. He kneeled before her and awaited more answers, more details. The more information he had, the better prepared he could be for whatever was to come and he was willing to do anything to protect Kaori. Even if it meant he himself became a wanted man....<d
Warden Hotaro: She heard the orders through the door and started to shake her head. She looked torn between answering Marcos' question and going to try to stop the crew from leaving port with her. She started to panic and started to sit up, her chest heaving as she looked toward the door. "Marcos, you must stop them! They'll know I'm with you and come after you, too!" Tears were streaming down her cheeks as she tried to explain. "You were right! I never should have accepted this charge. I'm in trouble. I'm in so much trouble. I've been framed for treason. Maubrey made documents, false documents! I helped an attempted assassination, I- I provided information detailing the brooch and its whereabouts - I swore love and fealty to Maubrey and England- All these documents that I've never seen yet bore my seal! The Duke tried me today for treason though he knows I'm innocent. Come breakfast they'll realize I've escaped and the royal guards will be searching for me. I can't let them know I've been here ! -- Meanwhile, outside the ship a man came running quick as lighting to the ship. He was dressed in traveling clothes with a sack of his own and trying to gain passage onto the ship. "I need tae speak with yer Cap'n!" he shouted to the crew, looking urgent and frantic. (d)[/color]
Of Sea And Sword: "Mi amor...no, no stopping them now and I am sure they already know, but let them come..si.. we will be ready." He hugged her only to draw back and look at her once more, giving a shake of his head. "We will sort this out... there is always a way..." Unfortunately, Marcos knew all to well what the way usually meant and it involved the ghuns below deck. "A tarde... usted esta aqui y se quedara aqui.. " ( its to late, you are here and will remain here.) Marcos let his eyes leave the face of Kaori and shift toward the door as he could hear voices. One asking to speak with him, the other of Collin denying him his request. "There'll be nae visitors 'pon La Nereida now Sir!" Marcos stood to his feet and moved to the door, grabbing a tunic on the way over. The door was opened and as he stepped outside, he looked to Collin for an explanation in case he missed something.<d
Warden Hotaro: "But, Marcos, they- You-" Her words fell away. She wanted to be with him anyway- She needed to be with him. If she had to go off on her own she'd surely end up either caught or dead. She didn't know what to say, but she gasped when she heard the argument outside. She bit her lip nervously as Marcos left the room. Outside the room he'd see a tall, lanky, auburn-haired man trying to fight his way past Collin. Before Collin could offer an explanation, he managed a wry, strained smile to Marcos. "Ye must be Cap'n de La Costa. Yer lady, in all the excitement, must 'ave fehrgotten the Duke's wairds." Finally shaking Collin's hands off of him he said, "The name's Drostan. I was sposed tae help 'er escape. Ah'm 'ere on the Duke's orders. Ah'll be assistin the crew and... donatin me talents." With a shrill whistle the man held up his arm which was covered in thick leather. Quick as lighting a bird had made its way through the open door above deck, and found the man's arm. A large peregrin falcon regarded those before him with cold yellow eyes. Drostan simply lifted his brows as if waiting to see if the case was settled. (D)[/font][/color]
Of Sea And Sword: As his steps carried him further out, the tunic was pulled over his head to help ward off the chill to bare skin. Dark eyes regarded the man that gave Collin such trouble, but soon this man would find he and Collin were surrounded.Bella, Pierre and other crew members stood with sowrds and rapiers drawn, ready to draw first blood if the need came. Collin eased up, seeing that he and his Captain were well protected and watched as the man gave his name and stated his business. "Senor Drostan is it? Mi Kaori spoke nothing of this to me, so... you should turn and be on your way." Marcos said as he then saw the large bird of prey come and make land fall upon the mans protected limb. His dark brows arched and a hushed silence over took the crew. Then one spoke up. "Cap'n! Dun let him pon the ship... it be witch craft! It will surly be our end!" Others weren't so surprised by it, knowing it was a talent to be one iinvolved and mastering the skill known as Falconry. "Kaori?" Marcos called as he looked over his shoulder, waiting to see if this was something she had forgot to mention in her explanation of things with all the frantic and crazy events of the night. Marcos himself knew a little about Falconry, but only by demonstrations and books. Those dark eyes shifted back to the man and bird as all awaited for Kaori to clear things up. <d
Warden Hotaro: Kaori, looking meek and timid and very unlike her normal self, peeked her head out the doorway. Her eyes fell upon the falcon on his arm, a small half-smile that looked almost nostalgic appeared on her lips. It was momentary, however, as she quietly said, "I'm sorry you were forgotten, Master Drostan. I would certainly be very appreciative of your assistance throughout this perilous time." Her eyes regarded the crewmen, however, before looking to Marcos. "But it is not my ship." Her eyes returned to Drostan and she said, "You can only stay to lend assistance if the Captain allows it." Drostan sighed and looked to Marcos. "The Duke is jest cencerned with 'er safety, Cap'n. Ah'm tae use Ailde 'ere tae let 'im know she's escaped and tae send him intelligence as needed." His eyes moved to Kaori momentarily, before looking back at Marcos. "But as the lass said, the call is yers." (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos sensed Kaori's presence but didn't turn to look to her just yet. His eyes stayed on the man with his bird and shifted slowly to the faces of his crewmen as the talk carried on. As the situation and circumstances were made more clearer, all eyes seem to settle on Marcos as everyone awaited his decision. Those dark intense brown eyes settled on Drostan and he nodded with his reply. "Welcome aboard Senor, but... one slip up of any kind and you and your falcon go overboard...comprende? I will do anything to safeguard the life of mi Kaori... even if it means you and your feathered amigo." Here was the beginning to seeing a side of Marcos to those that had yet to see it. He was a different man when on his ship and the rules on the waters were much different than they were on land. On the open seas, there was something that could make even the most polite and well mannered men become some of the most harsh and fiercely type to be had. Was this going to be a side of Marcos that Kaori could handle seeing and understanding? Or would this be something to worry her and have her second guessing her recent acceptance of his proposal? At the moment, none could not know, only in time would the answers be had. <d
Warden Hotaro: Drostan simply smiled and bowed to the Captain before saying, "Well, then, who's goin tae take me to set me things down? Ye seem like a fine sairt of man!" turning to Collin who had been trying to wrestle him back off the ship. Kaori retreated back into Marcos' cabin, waiting for him to follow her. She took a second to pick up the satchel and place it aside, along with her travel sack, though she took the walking stick from its side, handling it almost reverently. It was a smooth polished stick with a metal mount on the bottom of it that was only a bit scratched from occasional use. She kept a hold of it as she stared at Marcos, her eyes apologetic. Marcos had no way of knowing just how much she respected the Captain as much as her fiance. It was one of many things she appreciated about him. And just like at home, on the ship she would act as his servant as much as possible. "Are you upset with me?" she asked quietly, watching him carefully. Now that it was settled, now that Kaori was on the run and he was helping her, she feared that he might resent her for the position she had put an honest man in. At the moment she resented herself, and braced herself for cross words. She was back to looking exhausted, her skin pale and her normally immaculate posture sagging beneath the heavy cloak she had yet to remove. (D)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos sort of chuckled to himself and gave a shake of head. "No mi amigo.. Collin has his duties already. Besides, you ae to quick for him, therefore... I will let mi Bella be in charge of you, si. And just a word of advice... amigo, do not under estimate her. The men that have... do not live to long enough to say so." With that, he smirked with the arch of a single brow and turned to leave. Letting Bella take over things as Collin continued to see that previous orders were now carried out. Bella gave Drostan a warning glare before she'd begin to show him around and to his place for the voyage. Marcos made his way back inside the cabin, closing the door behind him and moving to take a stance near Kaori as she moved things about then settled. At her question, his head tilted and he gave her a confused look. "Mi amor... why would I be upset with you? Hm? You have done nothing wrong... except maybe eh...under estimate the love of a man for his wife to be." He moved closer to her and took her hands in his. "Mi Kaori... I would and will do anything for you. Your life means mucho more than my own and if I have to sacrifice it to see that your babies... our babies have a madre... then so be it." <d
Warden Hotaro: She had set the walking stick on his bed as he approached, glad to feel her hands in his. It had been a while since she could feel comfortable with him, and though she was currently a fugitive, she felt like she was at least precisely where she should be. Her hands were swallowed by his, so tiny in comparison. Her eyes closed momentarily before she met his gaze and quietly said, "My life is forfeit without yours. So try not to be too eager to sacrifice it for my behalf, please." She managed a shaky sort of smile that was really sort of pathetic, but it was something. "Despite what you say, I have to say that I'm so sorry, Marcos. I'm so sorry. It wasn't supposed to be like this." She hung her head and whispered, "Lloyd was right. I'm no scholar. I'm a bumbling fool." She took comfort in being loved, but she still felt like a disgrace. What kind of scholar would ever find herself in such a position? The world felt so different to her now, so bloody unfair. And for the first time in a very long time, Kaori had not a clue what to do. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: He let his dark hands hold hers, his dark eyes staring at the differnces between them. His was so dark, worn, and large while her own were light, soft and small. His fingers toyed and laced with hers before he looked back to her. "Comprendo..." He would give his own shaky type of smile before a shake of head was made. "No no mi amor... do not apologize. You could not help how things turned out and it was not by your doing... but his, this... Maubrey." The name was pronounced with such disgust and displeasure. When she hung her head, his fingers slipped beneath her chin and had her look to him. "Lloyd is wrong, and everyone else that thinks as he. You are a muy smart and intelligent woman. A woman that serves her Duchess and Duke well." <d
Warden Hotaro: She let out a heavy sigh as he spoke. She hadn't been fishing for compliments with her words, but she was happy to hear his estimation of her while she was having such a hard time seeing her attributes. She felt so used and stupid and spent. She felt cheap and worthless. This ordeal had taken a toll on her, but hopefully, assuming the escape was a success, she'd be able to recover. Her hand lifted to the one beneath her chin, and lifted his hand to her lips so she could place a few kisses to his fingers. It felt so good being with him again, that single evening interlude not having been enough. She had never expected their reunion to be like this, but no matter the circumstances it was so nice being back with him. Finally releasing his hand, she fumbled with the clasp of her cloak. "You will, of course, have things for me to do to assist on the ship, won't you? I'd like to at least earn my keep." This was no pleasure cruise, no holiday. Considering the sacrifices he was making for her, she wanted to be of assistance anyway she could. She didn't know anything about ships and the work needed to be done, but she could at least say she was a fast learner. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos was just telling her as it was, as he saw things and if that meant giving her compliments, then it would have to be just that. He could see how worn out she was by all this and how she needed to relax. Though, under these circumstances, that would prove to be a little more difficult to achieve. With the kisses to his fingers, his smile would grow before it disappeared slowly. Kaori released his hand and it fell to his side, almost at a lost as what it should do now. "Have things for you to do? Mi amor... I would think I was enough..." He said with a grin, trying to lighten the mood some with his jesting. The Spaniard was one deviant man when he wanted to be and truth be told, the way Marcos' mind worked when she was around proved that at times. Then again, who could blame him...right? He was sure that there were many men that envied him and wished they were in his shoes, even now. "No worries me Kaori, I am sure we can and find you a few things to see to..si?" He said as he moved to sit down beside her now. One arm wrapping itself about her and pulling her close as he could hear the continuous shuffling of feet outside as the men went about seeing to La Nereida's departure from Skye's port. <d
Warden Hotaro: Once her cloak was off she had set it side and taken a seat on the bed, carefully moving the walking stick to the foot of it. She had managed a little giggle at his joking, and she was glad for it, really. Laughter felt like a foreign concept to her and she knew it would be a while before she was comfortable laughing again. When he sat next to her she leaned against him comfortably. She was shuffling her feet, trying to remove her shoes. She knew was afraid to see the size of the blisters she could feel. It was obvious to see what she had gone through. She had been walking a little funny and her shirt was mostly untucked from her skirt. Her hair was mussed from all the constant turning her head from side to side beneath her head, looking for people and jumping at sounds. Sighing, she asked, "How many of your men do you think will hate me for making them go back to work so suddenly?" She knew there had to be one or two slant-eye mutters going on above deck. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: His arm that wrapped about her let his hand affectionately move up and down her arm as she leaned into him. He let his eyes fall to her shuffling feet and to see her feet, along the rest of her in the state she was in, was pulling at his heart. She looked so stressed and tired. She needed a lot to maybe help her at least feel a little better. He called out for Bella after Kaori asked her, what he thought was a silly question. "Nada mi amor... I am thinking they are muy greatful. You see... men like us... we never grow tired of the sea. After being on it for a muy long time, she becomes a part of you.. and you to her. Although she can be unforgiving and full of wrath... she also can be gentle....it is sometimes like... long lost lovers reuniting..." He said as Bella would knock upon the door before entering. Marcos would smile and speak to her. "Bella, see that Kaori gets a hot bath, some food and drink por favor." Bella would nod and smile to them both before taking her leave to go and fetch the hot water to fill his tub with and to see to the other request of food and drink also. Meanwhile, Marcos would slid a little further behind her and let his hands begin to work out the knots in her shoulders and neck. "Tonight, we will get you rested and come manana, more talk of what you can do...si?" <d
Warden Hotaro: After Bella got her orders she tried to protest. "Oh, Marcos no! I don't need..." She had trailed of with a sigh, however, realizing that Bella was going to listen to Marcos' orders of Kaori's protests. She managed a lopsided smile as he moved to massage her shoulders, her eyes closing. "You do realize your trying to spoil a fugitive, do you not?" It still disgusted her to know what she was right now, but at the same time she knew that it was not a title she had earned. "I don't think I can think anymore, anyway," She murmured, wincing a bit as he found a particularly sensitive knot of tensed muscles. "I feel so exhausted right now, but at the same time, I don't feel sleepy. I can't properly explain what I'm feeling. Other than grateful, of course." (d)
Of Sea And Sword: He smirked, then nodded and replied after her questioning. "Si, and I am muy feliz to aide and bed a fugitive. I am thinking I am a muy lucky man...hm?" He said teasingly, making another attempt at having her forget her worries for now. "Then do not... just... relax..." In his mind, he knew they would need all the rest they could get between now and when the time came to defend all that was cherished. Kaori, the babies, amigos, and the Lands whom he served under the Duchess and Duke. If it wasn't the Duke pretending to send out his fleet to give chase, he was sure that Maubrey might. Even though Marcos had not been directly involved in a lot of the recent happenings, he was well informed on the going ons. He could not do anything for now, it wasn't time for him to take his place in this just yet, but it was fast approaching. His job so far had been to watch, listen and learn. To do as commanded and now... he had his orders. <d
Warden Hotaro: "Mmmm," she said softly, Marcos' hands doing a good job of helping her to relax when really little else could. "I'll try, my love," she whispered, a faint smile lighting her lips. "Try to bear with me if I find relaxation difficult over the next couple of days. I'll do my best not to burst into spontaneous tears and fly off the handle with sudden bursts of anger." In truth, Kaori was an emotional woman. She was just adept at suppressing her emotion because she was a Warden. At times such as these, however? Emotion couldn't be help back. She was still getting over the fact that she was accused of treason of all people! HER! Loyalty was so important to her. Her fealty was her honor! It was no matter now. What was done was done. It was time to stop focusing on the problem and to start focusing on the solution. "I love you," she whispered, glad that if she had to suffer with this, she at least had Marcos behind her. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: He'd continued to let his fingers work into her small shoulders and along her neck. He nodded with her words, grinning a lil as he saw his attempt seem to be working for the moment. She was focused on this lil game of teasing each other back and forth for now. That to him was progress and what a pair these two made. He knew she was trying to suppress her feelings and her emotions, much like he did at times. However, more times than not, she was better at it then he. It was usually his fiery temper that was his downfall, but then again, Spaniards were already well known for that among other things. His hands then begin to move down along her back and sides and with her words of I love ,he smiled and replied. "Y te quiero." Marcos was just glad he was part of all this, he'd not feel comfortable should she had to have depended on anyone else but him for all this. Bella would come in with a Pierre, both carrying large buckets of hot water to pour into the tub. Another crew member, a young boy stood just inside the door with a tray that held the food and drink. He set it on the table near the door before he stared at the Captain until Bella scolded him for such. "Hey, ye there.. stop ye gawking at tha Cap'n 'fore ye lose ye eyes!" She shouted, making the boy jump and nod before taking off. Bella looked to them both and gave an apologetic smile before leaving, Pierre quietly laughing to himself as he followed. <d
Warden Hotaro: Kaori had smiled fondly at the child when he brought food in for her, thanking him before smiling at both Bella and Pierre and thanking them as well. It was obvious the child idolized Marcos, and rightly so. She could imagine he was at that very moment imagining how he was going to someday be the captain of his own ship. Once they were gone she finally sighed and bent over to remove her shoes, wincing. Gads, her feet hurt. She could barely feel her legs then, but knew come morning it would be a different story. Standing and stretching, she set to work unbuttoning her shirt and removing her clothes. She was quite confident a bath would be a very fitting remedy right now. All that time spent running and shivering and jumping had left her a sweaty, rumpled mess. Once her clothes were removed she moved over to the tub and kneeled down, dipping her fingers in to test the temperature. Once deemed safe, she carefully stepped in and sunk into the water, her eyes closing. "Thank you so much," she whispered. As she suspected, it was precisely what she needed. She took a few moments to relax in the water, her hair floating on the surface as she slowly sunk further and further in, her chin starting to sink beneath the water. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: It may have been that the boy idolized him or it may have been he feared him, the boy was new and had not yet earned a name. For now, everyone just called him boy. He looked to be about the age of a 10 year old, but truth was, he was small and scrawny for his age, that of 13. Marcos' face would not shift until the boy left, smiling and almost chuckling at Bella and Pierre as they left. Once everything was had and Kaori began shifting to remove her clothing, he let his hands fall away from her reluctantly. He continued to sit and watch from the bed, and when she thanked him, he only grinned and nodded as the words Usted esta muy bienvenido were said. His arms folded over his chest as he watched her sink lower and lower, he knew a hot bath could do wonders for a tired body and weary mind. <d
Warden Hotaro: And so it was. She finally let her almond-shaped eyes open as her lips touched the water, her body lifting again with a reluctant sigh. Spotting some soaps and washcloth, she took some time to was her body, her eyes drifting to her beloved. Quietly she asked, "Ayuda me, por favor?" offering the washcloth and holding up her hair as she was asking for help with her back. Could she do it herself? Of course. But Marcos looked so lonely over there, she supposed she could give him an occupation. Besides, it always felt nice when he washed her back for her. Their baths together were something of a ritual and one of those things she had looked forward to doing once she was out of that blasted castle. Well, who would have seen this coming? She forced it out of her head again as she tried to consider more pleasant things for the moment. She had her Marcos back. That was enough to warm her heart. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos continued to watch until Kaori would ask for help. He chuckled softly and nodded as he moved to stand to his feet and to the side of the tub. Taking up a stool nearby, he sat, rolled up his sleeves and accepted the cloth. Was Marcos lonely? Not to terribly, but he had been enjoying the sight before him. Now, he was apart of it, which of course was better, however, he had to remind himself she was tired and needed rest. So any ideas that followed would of course have to be pushed aside for a later time. The Spanish Captain would do what he could when it came to helping his little Nihonnin dancer and scholar. The large hand covered with the warm soapy cloth carefully washed her back and neck before handing the cloth back to her so she could finish. If he continued to help,. he wouldn't be much help, but instead a lot of trouble. <d
Warden Hotaro: Well, what did his Nihonnin need more: rest or comfort? She supposed a little bit of both. Okay, well a lot of both. But whether it was with him washing her back or making love to her all night, she'd be willing to accept it. Once the washcloth was passed back to her she set it aside so she could wash her hair. That, alas, was always a bit of a chore, but one she was glad to do in the sake of feeling better. It took some time but once she was clean she took a few more moments in the water. She was clinging to the hope that someday this would just be a bad memory. They'd be able to have a beautiful wedding with their friends. She'd have her babies back. She could work on getting them a brother or a sister... or maybe both. Pulling herself from fond reveries, she smiled at her fiance. "Could you pass me a towel?" she asked, slowly moving to her feet. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos would then sit back and let her finish, otherwise, all that effort into getting herself clean would have been for nothing. Once she seem to be doing fine on her own, he'd stand and move over to place the food and drink closer to the bed. When she asked for the towel, he retrieved one and handed it to her. Then he grabbed a second, knowing she'd need it as well. It dawned on him the door to his cabin was not locked, so he moved off to remedy that. Not that anyone would come barging in out of disrespect, but emergencies could happen at anytime. He then moved back over to the bed and removed his tunic before slipping beneath the covers. From where he was, he watched her, letting her do whatever she needed to feel better. Besides, it not like once she was asleep, he'd be there the entire night. He had a ship to command and things to watch for... he'd be on the deck with his crew before long. <d
Warden Hotaro: Once the first towel was passed to her she quickly wrapped her hair up in it, pulling it so tight she winced, but that was just to get some excess moisture out. Getting her hair done in Nihon was torture, so that was nothing. Once her hair was secure she took the second towel and set to work drying off her body as she stepped out of the tub. Shortly after she was dry she wrapped the towel around her body and moved to sit on the bed, looking at the food without much of an appetite. In an attempt to make Marcos feel better, she took a handful of grapes and made herself comfortable beside him, leaning back against the headboard. She sighed as she slowly chewed on her food. She thought when she got home she'd be able to summon for the babies and have them back with her. Who knew how long it would be before she'd have them back. Just imagining the way Cal sometimes touched her cheek or the way Carri smiled so big her dimples always showed made her heart hurt so badly she almost burst into tears right then and there. Forcing herself to calm down, she instead tried to focus on what she could do to clear her name. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Once she was in bed next to him, he would watch her with the few grapes she had. A shake of head was made as it was propped up in his hand while he was up on a single elbow. When she was done, he pulled and tugged at her until she was laying beside him, towels and all. The covers were pulled over them both and with her beck to his chest, his arm came to rest over her waist, holding her to him. "Just rest mi amor.... " He quietly said, knowing she was thinking of God knows what. He hoped she'd fall asleep soon, she needed rest and though he was laying with her, he wouldn't be sleeping to much tonight. He's stay just until he knew she was far beyond sleep, then he'd be up, dressed and out on the deck with watchful eyes and attentive ears. <d
Kaori Hotaro: As it was, despite her reluctance to go to sleep with so much on her mind, her body got the best of her. She had run so many miles that evening, and she had been so afraid that exhaustion was prevailing. She sighed and closed her eyes to humor him, but moments later she had slipped into a deep, dreamless sleep. (d)
Marcos de La Costa: Once Marcos knew Kaori was sleeping peacefully, he was very careful and very quiet in removing himself from bed. He would dress warmly as they were out to sea now and the chill on the open waters was much cooler than that when on land. Before heading out toward the deck, he looked over his shoulder toward Kaori. He gave a soft smile and nodded to himself before taking to the door and exiting. He paced the deck from one end of the ship to the other while crew members took turns in the crows nest. This had and would go on for as long as it was needed. He had to make sure that his Kaori was safe at all cost, even if it meant he and his crew were to become wanted men.<d
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