Post by Queen Beathag Aberdeen on Aug 27, 2009 21:15:54 GMT -6
Beathag It was the time of year where the women of the Court made their customary paces around the Island with the last bit of summer's warmth. Autumn would come, mucking up roads that weren't cobbled yet and bringing rains that would have everyone clinging inside to hearths with warm, vivid fires as they remembered the days like today, so perfect, so beautiful. While the mountainous ever-greens paraded perpetual colored needles, one could see on the other varieties the yellowing edges that were consuming the colors. A warm sun was able to peek through canopies that were a little bit naked around Willingham. The market settlement, still small, was gaining noteriety on the island for the regions healthy agriculture, a livestock market people were traveling to participate in, and the finished goods of animal husbandry: cheese, cream, milk, meats, leathers, and woolen things. Some of the ladies of Turas Lan were spending time with family around the Island, where Beathag simply sought the pleasures of her friend's regions and warm, welcoming households. She leaned over a stall, inhaling the scent of fruit from an orchard. The taste of it,so crisp! (d)
Ana: Home again, home again, jiggity jig. Or something to that effect. It was glorious to be back in Skye; home, the word resounding in her heart and mind. And Saul was home, too! Their days in Avaria after he'd awakened, and after that their days on board the ship on their way home, had brought the two closer. Morrigan was stunned by how much she'd changed in that time.. come out of her shell bit by bit with Saul's help. She was still mostly in it, though.. ever the shy and quiet one. But she was home and that's what counted! She hadn't been back long and her main concern was in seeing Bess. It hadn't been hard to get someone to help her find the duchess, and soon she found herself sneaking up behind her tall, golden-haired friend, only to finally stop and comment nonchalantly. "Naught like th' fruit o' one's lands, aye?" Brown eyes sparkled, unruly mahogany locks spilling about face and shoulders in a wavy cascade. It was most wonderful to be home. Now she just needed to get her life back on track!
Beathag: "Like Eohmark breeds nay finer horses, The Valley regions seem tae grow the finest country fare. Have ye bitten this apple? Tastes like sweet honey n' rainwater!" She fancied herself talking to a complimentary resident, simply going on as if the speaker had grown fat on the fruit, or at least wasn't foreign to it. When she turned around to see whom spoke to her, Ana was not the first person she expected! Where had her small friend gone to? Green eyes went platter wide before a smile pulled at the laugh lines in the freckle specked corners. An arm went out around her, voice welcoming as it was admonishing, "Where've ye been? Dae ye nay know how tae write 'er tell anyone wot? 'Ad tae find out second hand! Lady Tabitha was a mess o'er yerself n' Eirian gaein off tae Gods knows hwere tae gods knows wot! N' a small boy was a'lookin for ye! Ye just give e'eryone the fears." She huffed (around her apple, biting it diminished the impact of the scowl to a rather comical mix of anger dispating to pleasure giving way to gladness) "When did ye get back tae Skye, lass?" An arm went up as if to pull the answer out of the sky before hugging her again (d)
Ana "Nay, I 'ave nay, but per'aps I will now." She chuckled, only to grin when Bess turned to face her, laughing slightly at the look on the woman's face. Truly priceless, to surprise Beathag Aberdeen. "`Tis.. a long story. Suffice tae say, I went 'cross th' sea tae rescue a prince, an' come back with sae much more." That smile couldn't be any brighter if someone stuck a candle behind her teeth. Something made her smile falter into a confused look, though it was soon back full force. "Sorry I did nay write, me mind was all over th' place, an' afore I knew it, I was on a ship back 'ome." It was the truth. Returning the hug, calloused hands then rose to absently ruffle dark locks, sending them into further disarray. "Nay sae long ago. Last night, I think 'twas." She nodded, that sounded about right. She'd been so glad to sleep in a room that wasn't moving that she wasn't sure if she'd slept a few hours or a whole day! Gaze swept to Bess's face as her head tilted, obviously curious and a tad confused. "Wot's this 'bout a lad lookin' fer me?" Did she know any young boys in Skye? She didn't think so! Then again who knew, nowadays.. her world had been turned topsy-turvy!
Beathag: "Ye went tae rescue -- yer goin' tae tell me the whole tale," came the commandment after another crunch of apple, the fruit bobbing in her contemplative hand. Up down, up, down. She certainly appeared different. She looked - well in a way that they always said she'd find but even Beathag found odd to reckon with. To everything their is a season, no? Ana was pulled in closer so they could walk and talk at the same time, for thoughts flowed better when they weren't stagnant. "Ah can nay recall his name, but he was a boisterous scrap o' a boy, mannerful still. Yer dog followed him clean out o' Turas Lan n' all abouts sae Ah've heard. He says he comes from Ireland, aye, n' set out tae find ye when he heard ye'c ome here, but has had nay luck o' it yet. Think one o' m'messangers told me last place they saw him was in the country towns outside o' Turas Lan. He 'as 'im dark hair.. Con..hmmm...Caden! Tha's his name" (d)
Ana: "Aye, I was plannin' tae.. I knew ye'd want tae 'ear th' whole thin'." She laughed at that, her arm looping 'bout Bess in return as they began walking. Listening to her description of the lad, her brow furrowed. That.. sounded familiar. Why did..? And then she said that name. Caden. Morrigan stumbled and nearly hit the ground, looking up at Bess with wide eyes and a nearly horrified expression. "Caden? Caden McCullough? Ye gods, 'ow did that li'l rascal get all th' way 'ere!" She paled. The thought of her young cousin making his way all the way across Ireland and then to Skye..! She had to find him! Then tan his hide and ship him back to her kin in Kildare. Spots of red rose in hercheeks as her anger flared, and she muttered. Figures that little scamp would follow her, and she couldn't say she didn't love him.. he was almost like a little brother.. but still! It was so reckless. "I should 'ave known 'e'd follow me. When I left my kin in Ireland, 'e wanted tae come with me, but I would nay let 'im." She shook her head. Foolish little pain in her rump.
Beathag "Determined little lout. Could nay keep 'im in he castle. One ' the maids took 'im out with her tae the market, says he was distracted by somewot, went tae look in tha' was the end o' Caden! Been tryin tae pin a tail on 'im e'er since but did nay 'ear much more until the countryside news. Mm, sorry could nay hold him with a bit o' a harder hand for ye.." Kin was important! Beathag felt a moment's regret that she gave the rover a bit too much reign and not enough pull-back. "I'm sure if ye ask any o' the folks here abouts he can surely be found," she comforted, "They be such goodly folk, someone's surely taken him off the road n' kept him safe. All the towns in the hills follow after the Apollius' sae Ah'm sure he's hear.." She gently squeezed Ana's hand and gave a little sigh. Was nothing lacking adventure in Skye? To the back of her some miles, she had to return in order to meet the Lady Isabella. That, and Roger Mortimer, were talk for another day. (d)
requiem of days: "`Tis nay yer fault, Bess. 'e's a wily li'l lad, 'e could escape from shackles an' a tower with nay key." She rolled her eyes, a mixture of annoyed and amused. Caden had that effect on most people, especially his cousin. "Och, should nay be 'ard tae find 'im.. then I'll get 'im sent back tae th' clan, an' they can deal with him." She chuckled at that, looking at their surroundings with a touch of thoughtfulness. Now that she was back in Skye, it was high time she set about finding a home of her own and a steady occupation. Surely there was someone who could use a good hand with horses, or something. She looked back over at the taller woman, head tilting in that way it always did when she was curious. "Wot else 'ave I missed?" She was gone for quite some time, after all, no doubt there had been happenings aplenty and she wanted to know!
Beathag: "All o' the adventure, Ana, seems tae have followed ye a few hours South o'er the seas. We are a steady n' calm country ah fear, we just may bore ye tae tears with our talks o' who in court is havin a child, who shall marry, wot a clansmen is brewin," she teased; all of these things were God-blessed simple compared to a sky filled with flame, pots of oil over castle walls. Baracades. seige, and seasons of blood flowing over ice. No, it seemed that Skye hadestablished herself as an entity at once for, and even greater than Scotland. Indeed, one wild Highland Island in the Atlantic now held the entire chain of all islands united in their hands. Isabelle and Roger were a matter for her and Adam to contend with hard won, established diplomacy and a Scott's streak of ability to see through pretty, peddle shyte. Breathing in, the nothing continued to be offered as the something that was going on. "N' Ah rather like tha' way. Much prefer m'husband n' bed than fer sixty days in another country smoothin someone o'er. Tis almost time fer the first harvest soon." (d)
Ana: "Och, nay! 'Tis a blessin' tae be back where life is calm an' that's all th' excitement tae be 'ad." Outright laughing at that! Please, she was so ready to settle down into a simple life. Though she got the feeling that with Saul featuring prominently in her life, it would be anythin but calm and simple. Her heart fluttered at the thought and her stomach rolled, though not unpleasantly, and she absently pressed a hand to her abdomen as though to quell the organ's stirring. "Ne'er thought 'twould say it, but.. that sounds like 'eaven on earth." She paused, as though considering her words, and nodded. "Aye, that it dae." Husband? Probably not anytime soon. But she could understand the appeal of spending time with someone dear to your heart. She became aware of the nearly dreamy smile that had worked its way onto her lips and promptly stifled it, tucking it away into a box for later. No need to let everyone and their mother see that untamable, untouchable Ana had been, if not tamed - never tamed, not this lass - then at the least touched at last.
Beathag: The Mo'r Oukselo concured, looking across the simple beaten earth lane, with a few houses and businesses spread across it. In her hand was a red, ripe simple apple. In her heart was a song that only the land could furnish in its state of blissfulness. No restraint was ushered to stop it, or make the drum beats hush inside of her heart. But what secrets did a young woman have, hmm? "Sae now, all smiles n' rescuin' princes. Ah take it tha' ye n' the Prince Saul are makin a pair?"" Beathag was able to speak low to keep secrets that, but alas, well past thirty and four years till forty made her a rather insightful woman. Blonde brow arched as they continued down the lane (d)
Ana: Off in lala land - which wasn't all that unusual, given how Ana was - she was a bit surprised to hear the words from Bess. A flush filtered into her cheeks as she offered a sheepish grin, quietly offering her reply. "..Is it that obvious?" She didn't realize she was being so.. transparent. But it was just so hard not to be happy. She'd never thought something like this would happen to her, but.. ah. Just thinking of Saul made those flutters rise again, and she bit back a fit of giggles as sparkling eyes lifted to those of Bess. "I cannae say 'twas expectin' it.. but it does nay seem as.. stiflin' as I always thought 'twould be." As it had felt with the one male that had ever tried to court her before. Then again.. Kade Tiernay had wanted to change her, to make her into some perfect little housewife. That wasn't Morrigan Stirling, at all.
Beathag "Ye know a thing or two 'bout such things when ye've 'ad them yerself n' seen a few more." Transparent? No, but obvious enough for the more senior to ask the younger after her reason for the flushed face. Happiness should be granted everyone, and youth held the promise of making the oncoming years far better if one could be matched in desire, mirth, goodness, and humor with someone who felt the same. While advocating the benefits of good arrangements, she'd abstained from a second match for eleven years until Aodhan's father, and on his death sought nothing for three years until Adam proved that the third time was ultimately the charm. It was good that Ana, sweet and good Ana, was having some light given her. Everyone has a match. Behold her sister and Eamonn! Somewhere between the middle of the market settlement and perhaps the center of thought, Beathag offered, "Best things beh unexpected. Enjoy each bit o' it." She by no means was looking for a man. She just wanted to go to the market for one thing, ended up with goatsmilk, cheese, bread, a man, and a baby named Edme. True story. (d)
Ana: Well she was glad it wasn't just written openly on her face. Being a very private person, that would've mortified her to no end. She couldn't help feeling light as air, though, as she walked alongside her friend, her eyes aglow and her heart positively overflowing. "I fully intend tae dae just that." And she did. She didn't know where this thing with Saul would lead. She had no expectations, and honestly, no hopes aside from wanting to be by his side for many years to come. So as long as she could do that.. she would be happy. Her kin would likely disapprove if they ever found out, but that didn't much matter to her. It was her life. Not their's. She would take things as they came. Blisswas within reach! And she would grasp it with both hands and hold onto it with everything she had.
Beathag: "Good, tha' is the best part o'it, Ah think." She finished up the apple and offered the core to a refuse bucket at the end of a stall, pondering what else to indulge in. "Sae wot o' er yer own future, now tha' ye are home. Wot will ye dae fer keep in such?" Then there was the ever present question of what to do for drink. At this rate, Willingham would be enjoying a mighty patronage from the Aberdeens. Even now she was turning to buy two cups of the finest apple-brandy for herself and Ana, because she could! Maybe some of the pulled-pork to go with it, and the bread. Thank goodness Adam loved his women ample! (d)
Ana: She watched Bess curiously as the woman retrieved two cups of some drink, and took one when it was offered, though she hesitated for a moment before drinking as she remembered that night by the gypsy fire. She was always careful of what she drank now! But she sipped at the drink, making a soft 'mm' of pleasure at its taste, before responding. "I.. dinnae know, right off. I was meanin' tae speak with any o' th' noble 'ouses, see if may'aps any need a good 'and with their 'orses, afore I went off tae Avaria.. I'll see tae that once I return tae Turas Lan." Undoubtedly someone was in need of a stablehand, and she was most capable of pulling her own weight.
Beathag: "There's a'plenty in the city but the stables o' city folk be a might small, though the outlyin' folks with manors nay far from the city may be a good election, sae ye may have nough room tae run n' showcase yer talent. Ah'd be gladtae write ye a forwardin' letter, attestin' to yer skills." The sweet sting in the cup wasn't enough to plaster anyone on their ass unless they decided to indulge in over plentiful cups of over plentiful numbers. At this last stall she had more than drink to pick up, or apple cores to release. Her handmaiden Heather sat with the lady in waiting to Davina, Amelia, entertaining the princess while each visited with friends who'd settled in the region. A mother's arms were happy to take up the burden, babe and cup included. "Ana did ye e'er meet Heather n' Amelie? These fine ladies 'elped Adam deliver our precious." Fine? Both of them blushed, come from the sorts of stock that servants were picked out of. Fine? It made heather giggle and Amelie grin. (d)
Ana Ana had most definitely learned her lesson about over-indulgence. "I am nay familiar with any o' th' families in th' area, but I will be sure tae seek 'em out.. thank ye." Showcase her talent? That might be a proper term for someonewho trained horses - something she would probably be good at, if ever given the chance - but not so for a simple stablehand. Mucking out stalls and grooming was what she was used to and often employed for, which was fine by her. Following along behind Bess, she smiled at the duo of girls and cooed at the babe. "Well, 'tis nice seein' ye again, yer li'l 'ighness." Turning her attention to the ladies then, she nodded in greeting. "Nice tae meet ye both." She eyed Davina again, head tilting ever so slightly to one side. Children. Cute little things, they were. Crazy to think she'd ever have any of her own! But maybe something she would need to start considering? Oh no Ana, don't you dare go down that path.
Beathag: "Good to meet ye, miss," "A lovely day is it nay? The princess thinks so!" Heather spoke first, Amelie second, and longer, less shy than her younger companion. When she offered Davina to her mother she offered Ana a hand. Bright eyes. Dark hair, a buttoned nose, and a figure fed on cream and bread made her a favorite of the unmarried men and a treat if you looked for humor in your castle life, and a know-it-all for eveything among the servants. Davina was all of six months, rounding out to seven! Auburn curls were plentiful, already a face with bangs to frame it and enough hair to be held back in a thin litle ribbon. She flapped her arms with excitement on seeing hermother. For her part, Beathag all but melted. Could it be that they'd have another such blessing, her and Adam? She hoped, oh how she did! Age be damned, she loved being a mother! "'Ello sweet'eart, 'ello! Wot 'ave ye been about hmm, tryin tae fly?" (d)
Ana: "Aye, quite lovely indeed." She chuckled, and hesitated only a moment before reaching out to take the girl's hand, giving it a small shake. Shy Ana is shy! But before she wouldn't have been able to smile while doing so. Perhaps the prince of bards was having a good effect on her after all! Of course he was a scoundrel of the best sort, so who knew what other changes he might effect on the introverted lass? She laughed softly at Davina's arm flapping and Bess's comment. "If'n she takes a shine tae tryin' tae fly, she's bound tae love flyin' on th' wings o' a 'orse's runnin' feet when she gets older." It seemed reasonable to her, though she was mostly jesting. The munchkin was too cute for her own good. "Och, she'll be drawin' th' lads left an' right afore long.. 'er da will 'ave 'is work cut out fer 'im tryin' tae keep 'em at bay, eh?" Chuckle.
Beathag: "Mmm, Ah'm confident she shall give any lad a turn 'pon a horse. Uncle Eamonn n' yer Ana will see tae tha' no? Won't ye be just bonnie on yer first pony.." Dreaming of years when months were how she counted Davina's age, she stillcould not get over Aodhan being the fitting age to care for his own horse! There still was something to be said for a girl, though. Aodhan was the center of her universe, but with the rightness of men in his life soon he'd slip away to things a boy should be concerned of, but a lass would be in some way bound to her mother's side not for merely parentage, but for want of being there. All they could share made her smile. "She looks like Adam's mother n' m' mother tae a tee, more sae Adam's mother...her namesake was a beauty tae rival any age, o' wot shall we dae when they come tae court ye girl? Thank God ye've only learned tae crawl." Not flirt, or sigh, or make a bosom heave. No,she was but a babe and for this her mother was thankful! Off to the side there was a little table to sit at and she did so. "Yer brothers will have tae be fierce just as ye will be beautiful." (d)
Ana: "Oh aye, we could nay let any lad best ye, aye, li'l 'ighness?" She laughed at that and settled down near Bess, taking a sip from her drink before her head tilted, eyes peering thoughtfully at Davina. "She's bound tae be quite th' beauty, aye." If her father's good looks were what Ana remembered, seeing as she hadn't seen the Duke in quite some time, and with Bess's beauty.. ah yes. She would be well sought after for more than her station. Another soft laugh. "I can see it now; lads come callin' fer th' fair Davina, only tae be chased off by 'er brothers with threats o' violence!" She barely suppressed a snort on the end of a peal of soft giggles, hesitantly reaching over to oh so gently poke the youngster's soft-skinned little arm.
Beathag: "Tha; could ne'er be! All the lady yer mum was nay when she was young, ye'll be able tae hide the smug grin a'better," She chortled, watching Davina turn to Ana. Would she hold her? The little girl wanted to crawl off onto Ana's lap to investigate her face, where her voice was coming from. One little foot was already on Ana's lap, and boy, was she determined! "Seems she wishes tae make friends. Let's 'ope Aodhan retains some o' the gentility he's afamed fer now." His gentle nature with Adam's calm was a good influence for years spent under the boisterous rhythm of Beathag's famous Highland personality. When she laughed, it was gay. When she smiled, it was bonnie. If she got angry, run. Her bouts of temper during the first year of the reign were the stuff of legend when one found the calm, good hearted soul who offered up her curious daughter to Ana. "She will 'ave many brothers, n' sisters tae grow with Gods willin." (d)
Ana Oh dear. Munchkin at 2 o'clock. Her eyes widened when Davina apparently decided she would be fun new territory to investigate, and though she was most unaccustomed to being around children - fortunate for her none of her kin had had any children under the age of four present while she was there, or she would've been in a bind - and her movements were slightly awkward, hands came to gently grasp the youngster and steady her while she familiarized herself with Ana's personage. "`Twould be quite a blessin', aye." She eyed Davina cautiously. Babies were not her usual fare. But perhaps buried somewhere beneath that tomboyish nature and those rough hands lurked a mother's heart, for as the tension of unease fled her shoulders and her grasp on the child became a bit less awkward, a smile slowly curled on her lips and she chuckled with an absent murmur. "`Tis nay as odd as I thought 'twould be." She'd had horrible visions of getting butterfingers and dropping a child when she held them, but she wasn't doing all that bad! Which not only surprised her, but somehow pleased her. However she was a bit puzzled by the strange yet achey warmth that bubbled up within her chest and settled there. What in the bloody hell.
Beathag: There was no stopping Davina, who was already squirming out of her mother's arms to climb Ana like a favorite tree with branches she wanted to sit in. Beathag found she didn't have to caution Ana in how to support her, but she was of that age where babies become quite sturdy. She held up her own head, her back could be straight. She sat up on her own, and was a pretty efficient little crawler! Davina thoroughly enjoyed the attention, jumping up on Ana's lap, up and down with glee before reaching out atiny hand to tap Ana's mouth. "Bairin 'are hearty! Eery woman has tha' in her somewhere, comes natural. Look at tha'! She likes ye." Two hands were pressed on Ana's chest, Davina looking up to her with big, sea green eyes (d)
Ana: "Babes 'ave ne'er been somethin' I cared tae get familiar with.. ne'er thought I would 'ave tae be." She laughed at Davina's happiness, making a face at the girl with her nose scrunched up. "I ne'er thought I would 'ave any meself.. or that I would want any, fer that matter." She grinned, worn fingers gently tickling the child's sides. Then she paused, and got wide-eyed. "Er, that's nay tae say that I dae want 'em, or plan tae, or.. er.. um..." Awkward! And there went those cheeks flaring a bright red. Blast. Where had that come from! This was a classic case of Ana-style open mouth-insert foot, and she decided it was best if she just stopped talking, so she decided to look down at Davina, finding herself looking into green eyes. She suddenly had the urge to check and make sure there was no hay in her hair...
Beathag: Wouldn't you just know it, there was a stray piece of hay in Davina's hair, save! A perfect change of subject, certainly. As fumbling, blubbering Ana went on Beathag could only grin. Well, well! Change indeed! Such that wouldcause her to think on children or anything to do with their ilk! "Ye remind me o' Aislin. She delivered a'plenty o' babes but did nay hold 'em or take a claim tae wantin one, nor a man fer tha' matter but sometimes things change. Eamonn did nay think he'd have such things either, n' now they've two handsome children. N' each other, first n' foremost. Ye ne'er know, but just enjoy the current lass. Ye dun 'ave tae start poppin' out children tae morrow. Times a good thing." Such as being the authority on child rearing over thirty! Davina began to curl up into Ana's arms. Who couldn't love that child? (d)
Ana: "O' course nay. 'Tis just a thought. Nay that I'm 'avin' such thoughts." She would deny it till the day she had her own child, most likely. Notorious non-lady-like Morrigan Stirling did not think of children. And she did not happily cuddle another's child in her arms. Like she was just doing. Nope! "I 'ope tae see Eamonn an' Aislin afore long." Eamonn had somewhat taken her under his wing, back in Inverness, and she always felt a certain kinship to him. She could only hope he and his family were well and happy, wherever they were and whatever they were doing. She smiled at the cuddly Davina and glanced over at Bess with a slight inclination of her head to one side. "Ye an' sir Adam be 'opin' for more children, aye?" Seemed it was going around, what with Eirian having a baby too!
Beathag: "Aye, we ne'er thought such thing was possible. Twas supposedly bairin after m'first son came far tae early, then ye take intae account m'years at fightin' n' all such hardship..does nay boon well fer a woman. Aodhan Ah thought was a very blessed fluke. His birth was 'ard n' more scarin, more flux..well had him n' Adam adopted a little Lowland girl, n' we named her Edme, n' Ah adopted them both sae we had two children..n' then when Edme died.." That was still hard to think about, Edme would have been well on her way past two, near three. "We had Aod..but he believed with all his heart ah was nay as done fer as Ah thought I was. I didn't even have me cycles anymore but.. well..he was right. Ah've always wanted a big family, came from one meself. The thought o' bein a grandmother sits well with me tae." (d)
Jack: What would Bess and Ana make of it, when they heard the laughing of children in the air? Through the crowd, a pair of them would weave. The one that t'was indeed in the lead, t'was a young lad known to all as the Ebony Prince. And behind him? Hearled by the cheery cries of "Imma gonna get ya, Aod! Imma gonna get ya!" and her shock of red hear, could only be the Lord-Governor's young daughter, Seanna. The two seemed carefree as to what the crowd - or their own parents - seemed to think of this kinda behavior. After all. When you were young, shouldn't all life be as this? As a game? As Aod emerged from the crowd, he did the natural thing: he darted off to hide behind his mother. Whether or not this was a good tactic would hafta be discussed later, because Seanna darted out of the corwd as well, "Imma get ya Aod!" She almost stumbled to a stop, seeing Bess there. The young girl, clad in a pair of buck skin pants and a tunic, beamed widely. There was an excited call of "Aintín Bess!" before she darted into Bess's arms. Ready or not, here she came! And following behind? The Lord-Governor himself. (D)
Ana: "Ye'd make a bonnie grandmother, Bess. And I dinnae doubt ye'll live tae see it 'appen." She smiled brightly at her friend. She was fully convinced that Bess was eternal. War hadn't killed the woman, she would live forever. Simple as that, in Ana's eyes. She heard the laughter of children, and looked around to see if she could find its source, just as Aodhan made his appearance and hid behind his mother. Morrigan blinked, then smiled at the boy, only to blink once more and eyes go wide when an unfamiliar lass threw herself into Bess' arms. She tilted her head, then looked down at Davina, talking to the babe. "Seems yer mama is a might bit popular taeday, eh, li'l 'ighness?" She chuckled,once again gently tickling the kiddo perched on her lap.
Beathag: War hadn't killed Beathag, nor the jailer, nor sickness, nor sorrow had killed her either. No, once there was a tale of poison killing her but then the same instance she returned from the dead after laying for a day or two in state. Beathag wouldn't die until she was good and ready to die, somwhere beyond ninety and over the moon. Her golden hair would be streaked with gray, her eyes still bright, and her hands wizened but strong when she told the Gods she was ready to go to the halls of her father and mother. Right now she had children to rear, fun to have! Aodhan barreled behind her, causing her to turn her head for a split second to ask what he was doing only to find his assailant catapuling herself into her arms! Wouldn't you fancy this would be the last child she'd thought to see, and had wondered if maybe the Flynns had gone on holiday to Ireland to manage their claim in person. Beathag wrapped her arms around the pretty red headed girl, kissing her cheeks many tmes over, "Seanna! 'ello ! Where ye been darlin, let me look at ye, 'ave ye gotten bigger? Aodhan where'd ye find Seanna at?" Aodhan could find her anywhere! "Morrigan this is Seanna Flynn, the Irish Govenor's daughter, now..where be the Irish Govenor. I'd introduce ye if I saw 'im.." It was hard to do that, what over excited red curls and her son blabbering away about the games the two were playing. "He's m'bond-brother, sae tha' makes Seanna one o' m'nieces. Me eldest one at tha'...darlin where's yer Poppa aye?" (d)
Seanna: Seanna smiled up at Bess, "'E's there!" She turned to point behind her, toward where the Irishman - was it still so odd to see him out of his naval uniform? - was making his way through the crowd with one of his valets at his heels. As Seanna pointed this out, she was cautiously watching Aod out of the corner of her eye. Obviously, lulling him into a false sense of security! And with that, Bess came pot of the playing field. There was a "Gotchya!" as she twisted about to latch onto Aod's collar and the shoulder of one arm. Then she beamed, just as broadly when she'd seen her aunt, "Yer it, Aod!" There was a chuckle from the Irishman, who was ladened under full set of tack for a horse - athough it was made (quite beautifully! With the gaelic flaire for the local craftsmen) for one about Seanna's age. T'was an oddity, though. While for his daughter it t'was, it was not a side saddle. It was a saddle that was for boys. Behind him, his valet was carrying the full tack and harness for saddle with similar designs - but this was a side-saddle and made for the grown-ups. For Maggie, no doubt. He grinned at Bess, "Sorry, Bess....
Beathag: "Tha's alright, Jack. Did nay know ye was in these parts, sae tis a good suprise. Wot brings ye tae Willingham? Ah be makin wot they call the old tradition o' the ' Lady's Paces." Generally that was the Court's paces or the Queen's paces. But Queen was a title that like Adam she vehemently avoided, despite what the current climate suggested. By now Aodhan was busy chasing the released Seanna all over again to enact his royal revenge. Ana had other business to return to, following a lead on a particular Irish lad from Kilarde so Davina returned to her mother's arms. " N' decided tae come through the countryside 'ere. Somethin' just simple n' with lil fanfair." She only had herself and a few women with the requiste guards. No banners, streamers, or that folderol. "Ah see tack there! Are ye getting things fer the women tae enjoy ridin?" (d)
Jack While they had been talking, Jack had given demour orders to his footman. To ensure that the saddle and tack that the valet carried made it back to his rented rooms for the night. Then he grinned broadly, "Aye! Tha' it be. Maggie 'as recently taken up tha ridin' with Seanna an' meself.... when she can, o' course." He grins, "Seanna an' 'er pony are nae the only ones tha are growin. The twins be growin' like weeds!" The way the Irishman seemed so animated and love with his kids, it was hard to believe that he was closing in on his 50th year. There was a smile, as he motioned to the tack, "Maggie be tellin' me tha Seanna dun ride right - " he grinned, "Says she rides like 'er Da - so I had at get a saddle ta oblige 'er. Picked up some matchin' stuff fer Maggie, ta try and smooth things out." (D)
.
Beathag: "My goodness! What a brewd ye 'ave, looks like a tree she does, all this height n' tha' hair! Got longer. My, my, she'll be a young lady soon enough. N' wot o' the twins, tryin' tae crawl yet?" Crawl away from their mother and give their father a reason to 'feel' his age! She took in the story of a young girl who didn't ride right, grinning at the fact while Seanna's shirt was flowered, she wore pants, not a skirt, when out with her beloved Da. The tack, though matched, did show that Maggie road side-saddle in the fashion that allowed her propriety but to still be active, where Seanna favored no restrictions. "Ah well, she'll 'ave plenty o' time tae learn tae ride both ways. Ah've ne'er ridden right either. Just allow enough skirt tae be tucked about if Ah'm upon m'own horse. Mum n' daughter will look a treat with the matching tack. Ye ought get matchin' ridin' clothes tae." She grinnned, "Split skirts in Seanna's dress, sae she can ride like a man without it a'flyin up ye see." (d)
Jack Jack laughed, grinned, shaking his head, "Aye? T'would ne'er o' occurred ta me.... but ya might be onta somethin' there." He gave a playful wink, "Awfully dreadful tryin ta get Maggie to wear a pair of britches....." And just the oppisite for Seanna! Fortunately, Seanna was still for and away from her tween or even teenage years. While some rebellion could be tolerated, she still knew to do whatever her Dad said in that special voice only parents getThat said, wasn't a bad thought. There was a smile, "Mmm. Ye are upon somethin' there, I'd be wagering....." There was muttering about the That said, wasn't a bad thought. There was a smile, "Mmm. Ye are upon somethin' there, I'd be wagering....." There was muttering about the possibility of getting in trouble, if Maggie caught him altering some of Seanna's older dresses for that. Then he grinned, "Aye. There tis nae much of Dunluce tha' tha twins 'ave nae managed to explore yet. Made it necessiary ta actually start closing the door ta rooms they are in...." Then he paid back the compliment. "Aod seems ta be growin' bout as quickly as Seanna....." He grinned, "Still got a hairs length ta go, afore Seanna catchs up with him. Tis Davani givin' ye as much trouble as m'twins are?" (D)
Beathag: "Sit ye down awhile, Jack Flynn! The children be amusin' themselves n' there's time yet tae enjoy the food as well as Willin'ams goods. 'Ave ye tried some o' the fruit, 'er the apple brandy, the milk? Sae good n' hearty here." She pulled out a chair for the Lord-Govenor of Ireland to sit with the Mo'r Oukselo, never imagining a day when two country celts would have such power and esteem that they'd own their own islands and England too! That wasn't the point now though. She was glad he'd come a'visitng from Dunlace. so many things were changing, and much of the court were going on to their own lives around the Island or to other countries. "Davina's a fast one, she be, crawlin off n' makin e'eryone chase her, twould be a lie iffn I said I did nay 'ave fun daein it. Ahdam n' I are gaein' tae try fer another bairin soon." Soon being the hoped conception before the year was out. Life was amusingly backwards for most women at this age saw their children grown or near grown, while she was only beginning to have them (d)
Jack: There was a smile, as he sat down. Apple brandy, hmm? T'was as good as ordered, such was the recommendation and wait of his sister's words. Then he smiled, hearing that, "I'll be givin' ye tha greatest of luck an' prayer ta see ta' ye dae." With Jack's family and her own, there could be little doubt that Bess wouldn't have the large family that she desired. There was a smile, "Mmm. Maggie 'as a mind ta wait until tha twins are older afore we 'ave another go. Seanna is keen an' all ta 'elp, but iffen Maggie t'was able ta get two o' 'em at a go? We think we might be needin' more help." Then he smiled, "Lizbette tis doin' a fine job, but she does be needin' 'er help." (D)
Beathag: "Look at us, Jack, nearin' forty n' fifty, n' talkin about children as if we beh twenty." The apple brandy was a treat as was even the air hereabouts. The land seemed to flourish, the fertile places contentedly settled under Eirian's open invitation. Where it was to merely be an estate, she ended up cultivating a distinct, new region in an old area of the Island. All that was old was made new again. Davina, the twins, and all good things were proof of "Somehow it seems a 'one o' them is nay sae hard. Aodhan is gaein tae be seven next year, Davina shall be one. Tis good we think tae have someone closer in age fer 'er tae relate tae, n' we wish tae make use o' our good fortune while it holds. It nay bothers me none. Ah could stand another two or three bairins." A large, healthy family of sons and daughters in Turas Lan was as much a dream as anything had ever been to the Highlander. One that she wasmore determined to see done than any act of her past. Not even the liberation of Scotland or the name of her kin could compare to a woman's heart yearning to furnish her beloved the chance to see his face again in other heirs. (d)
Jack: They would settle in to that comfortable chatter of friends and kin, drinking brandy and keeping watch on the children. Eventually, Jack would say, "Tha two 'our eldest 'ave always been neigh inseperable......" He smiled, laughing as he watched the two children somehow decide the public fountain was part of their playing field. They were splashing each other with water, trying to releave some of the heat of the day. There was a smile, "Do you think it will always be such with them?" The way he would turn to look at his bond-sister, would let her know that he was broaching that subject. (D)
Jack: Jack sighed quietly, ".... It is not a subject that I broach often with her." A man's word was final. While Jack did agree with the sentiment of free choice - being a true romantic at heart - he also knew that one could choose.... poorly. What if the good soul that his daughter fell in love with was a wife beater and cad? What if it broke her heart? Would his hands be tied because of his station? He had a romantic and longed to choose. But he had a
Beathag: Friends, family, and brandy were good signs of how far they had come from the wild, unfathomable places of a few years passed. Her eye turned toward Aodhan as he cupped water to pour over Seanna's head, and then his own. Fat rivers went through his many tight braids. He shook it off, sprinkling his playmate much to her delight. His happiness caused her to slip inside of it; warm and easy, a child's world was giving, tender. The harsh edges of adult logic didn't exist. Maybe that was why when Jack asked her if it'd stay that way she answered her bond-brother with "Ah'm sure as often as they shall see each other, aye." The adult turned to him then to look at his face, to see where this was going before offering, "Jack ye know how leery o' arrangements Ah am.." (d)
Jack: There was a smile, as he leaned there, "'Bout as wear o' them as I am......." This was true. He wanted his daughter to be happy, and had roundly dismissed more than few of the local Irish nobility's offspring -- after having watched them at play with Seanna. Only with Aodhan had he seen this behavior. He smiled, "Ya said yerself.... as long as they see eachother, they shall be insperable..... Why shall we nae make it so? I knae m'Seanna does nae act as this round any other boy -- an' I'll be bettin' tha' ye can say tha same for Aodhan." There ewas a smile, "I knae tha' I am her father, an' tha' - far more than I like ta amdit - an arrange marriage tis ta be her lot. E'ery noble gal wishes tha' her father shall pick out a handsome prince fer 'er. And if she dares ta dream? A kind one tae..... In Aodhan, I see all things fer m'daughter there. An' aother? I dae belive this be love at first sight."
(D)
Beathag: "Jack tha' is a falacy. E'ery noble girl hopes her father will pick out a prince is a smilin' face dyin' without the chance tae experience life.." Though for Aodhan wouldn't it be ..harder..to find his own matches? What maid of dark flesh from the Berber or Moslem parts of the world would look at him as if he were equal to their men, with the strange timbre of his voice, his clothes and culture. Who would make such a match..even if he traveled. Still, despite how good the Isle of Skye treated him, to be kind to the prince was one thing, to have children half blackamoor was another. She did not wish to think of the isolated time at Aberdeen spreading outward as a sign for the rest of his life. Would, then, an arranged match with someone who evidently cared for him from childhood, raised to see beyond his flesh, be good for him? It seemed wrong to relegate him to a tradition others were free from because of his skin. "And what if Seanna should grow older n' fall in love with another, twould break both of their hearts. O' course he does nay act tha' way with other lasses, but the way he acts with Seanna can be said the same o' he does nay act the way with Davina he does with other small bairins, nor with his cousins Sorcha and Keeran the way he does o' other boys n' girls. N' wot if Seanna would nay want tae leave Ireland? A married women gaes where her 'usband is. Despite all the laws o' freedom n' choice, e'en ye know as I dae some things are eternal. Wot does yer wife think on this?" (d)
Jack: Jack sighed quietly, ".... It is not a subject that I broach often with her." A man's word was final. While Jack did agree with the sentiment of free choice - being a true romantic at heart - he also knew that one could choose.... poorly. What if the good soul that his daughter fell in love with was a wife beater and cad? What if it broke her heart? Would his hands be tied because of his station? He had a romantic and longed to choose. But he had a romantic heart and fancied he knew true love when he saw it. Whether or not this was true, he didn't know. "I ... I am honest that I see from my eyes, not theres, and may see what they do not. Even though there have been those attending Dunluce seeking to find a match in my Seanna and the twins." He looked like a father, then. Startled. Matching for babies that did not know each other? There was a sigh, "At least in this, I know that they are friends and inseperable." (D)
Beathag: "Tis one ye should 'ave in earnest with her at the vera least. She is helpin to rear Seanna.." If a man's word was final, there was still the classic in him. It was true, too, that the Mo'r Triath's wife would defer to him on many choices, but still he consulted her often. What if she said yes to such an arrangement, and ran the risk of isolating and angering Margaurite? She sighed, pressing the settled Davina closer to her heartbeat. Here in lay the quandry of fair choice, of accepting tradition and even having the chance to question it when one came of age. It was a tentative arrangement, one that to others would seem iron clad. Yet what if it was broken, what risk would they run then? The Govenor of Ireland's eldest daughter, a blood-born child of Dunlace, of the Ceannfort would be looked at with the same prize eyes as any Princess in Europe. Wild islands on the sea were worth a chance to establish a dynasty. Women changed their names, became of other houses. There had been offers for Davina when she was but a fortnight old! "N 'Ah could ne'er make such a decision without Ahdam. Tis nay right, Jack. Hearts bond tae children harder than blood does." Maggie and Adam had as much right to have a say in their step children's future, and for Adam, he had crossed blood with Aodhan. By law of that rite, the boy was his. A streak of worry creased her brow as she watched Aodhan help Seanna from the fountains. "Ah was matched tae Adam, n' life changes. Nay suggestin such horrid things as befell our family will come about again, but tis tae say..one ne'er knows." Still, would she have given up at least some of that past, to let Adam have her, younger and unblemished? So many thoughts swirled in her head now. "N' yet..'en Ah can nay say tha' I dun see..the good sense, n' the safety, they'd both have in such a match." (d)
aptainJackFlynn: There was a soft nod of his head, as he listened to her go on. There was a pause, as she could see him cant his head. Watching his Seanna and young Aod play their games and enjoy the last days of summer. What would the reaction be, when he laughed and smacked his forehead. There was a smile, as he looked at his bonded sister, "Mmm. I think..... we have been forgetting one thing that is true and governs all.... The laws of Skye." There was a soft smile. "As it stands.... any arrangement that we make tis not binding, least the pair o' 'em approave o' it. Tis tha' sae?" There was a smile. (D)
Beathag: "Yer sae right...mm, guess I worry how far our own laws apply tae such children, fer their own protection...but maybe tis tae a boon. Many would nay favor a law o' such advantage, n' by the time o' reckoning tae make decision most ae long since arranged. Could be a subject o' intention, the intention bein' tha' Aodhan n' Seanna would approve such intention, n' then they could be granted a period o' courtship as the bethrothal is made public..hmm." It didn't offend judgement when placed that way, for it made each more a possiblity than a fixed decision, it gave them the advantage of choice. If allowed the chance to visit back and forth between often, which would be quintiessential to their educations, it would continue to foster the chances for natural bonds. "Tha Ah'd find nay fault with. Wot think ye, Jack? " It seemed cruel not to give them the chance to let time and nature find its own way, but still, could not one cultivate one possibility in a sea of many? In truth, it would save them from the potential of the sorts of foreign influence that wanted a prize hat in that all the ocean islands were under one power. liberal or not, that is what Europe saw, beyond the parliments and democracy? One crown over Scotland, Ireland, England, and Wales. (d)
Jack There was a smile, "Mmm." He grinned, "Tha' I find much more ta me likin' then tryin' ta arrange a marriage ta another. Tis nae such a bad thing ta dae, ta give 'em that choice....." Even if, in Jack's opinion, you nurtured the obvious one. There was a smile, a faint chuckle, "I like tha' arragement o'er much. Should be easier ta speak wit' Maggie on tha' topic as well, fer it tis nae so solid ta be set in stone." (D)
Beathag: "N' same with Ahdam, fer Seanna, tis merely important fer her tae have tha' say. Tis part o' why the law was put intae place, tae allow a lass some say in her future. Tae stay er gae. Wot is important n' wot is nay." Adament that a woman should not suffer the throws of misfortune because of some decision of what should be in her saddlebags, like a mare instead of a human, what chance she could have. True, each choice came with their advantages and disadvantages, but at least it was there. For Aodhan, it would mean some possible security. It would mean that he could have a wife who would love him, knew him, and give him children. (d)
Ana: Home again, home again, jiggity jig. Or something to that effect. It was glorious to be back in Skye; home, the word resounding in her heart and mind. And Saul was home, too! Their days in Avaria after he'd awakened, and after that their days on board the ship on their way home, had brought the two closer. Morrigan was stunned by how much she'd changed in that time.. come out of her shell bit by bit with Saul's help. She was still mostly in it, though.. ever the shy and quiet one. But she was home and that's what counted! She hadn't been back long and her main concern was in seeing Bess. It hadn't been hard to get someone to help her find the duchess, and soon she found herself sneaking up behind her tall, golden-haired friend, only to finally stop and comment nonchalantly. "Naught like th' fruit o' one's lands, aye?" Brown eyes sparkled, unruly mahogany locks spilling about face and shoulders in a wavy cascade. It was most wonderful to be home. Now she just needed to get her life back on track!
Beathag: "Like Eohmark breeds nay finer horses, The Valley regions seem tae grow the finest country fare. Have ye bitten this apple? Tastes like sweet honey n' rainwater!" She fancied herself talking to a complimentary resident, simply going on as if the speaker had grown fat on the fruit, or at least wasn't foreign to it. When she turned around to see whom spoke to her, Ana was not the first person she expected! Where had her small friend gone to? Green eyes went platter wide before a smile pulled at the laugh lines in the freckle specked corners. An arm went out around her, voice welcoming as it was admonishing, "Where've ye been? Dae ye nay know how tae write 'er tell anyone wot? 'Ad tae find out second hand! Lady Tabitha was a mess o'er yerself n' Eirian gaein off tae Gods knows hwere tae gods knows wot! N' a small boy was a'lookin for ye! Ye just give e'eryone the fears." She huffed (around her apple, biting it diminished the impact of the scowl to a rather comical mix of anger dispating to pleasure giving way to gladness) "When did ye get back tae Skye, lass?" An arm went up as if to pull the answer out of the sky before hugging her again (d)
Ana "Nay, I 'ave nay, but per'aps I will now." She chuckled, only to grin when Bess turned to face her, laughing slightly at the look on the woman's face. Truly priceless, to surprise Beathag Aberdeen. "`Tis.. a long story. Suffice tae say, I went 'cross th' sea tae rescue a prince, an' come back with sae much more." That smile couldn't be any brighter if someone stuck a candle behind her teeth. Something made her smile falter into a confused look, though it was soon back full force. "Sorry I did nay write, me mind was all over th' place, an' afore I knew it, I was on a ship back 'ome." It was the truth. Returning the hug, calloused hands then rose to absently ruffle dark locks, sending them into further disarray. "Nay sae long ago. Last night, I think 'twas." She nodded, that sounded about right. She'd been so glad to sleep in a room that wasn't moving that she wasn't sure if she'd slept a few hours or a whole day! Gaze swept to Bess's face as her head tilted, obviously curious and a tad confused. "Wot's this 'bout a lad lookin' fer me?" Did she know any young boys in Skye? She didn't think so! Then again who knew, nowadays.. her world had been turned topsy-turvy!
Beathag: "Ye went tae rescue -- yer goin' tae tell me the whole tale," came the commandment after another crunch of apple, the fruit bobbing in her contemplative hand. Up down, up, down. She certainly appeared different. She looked - well in a way that they always said she'd find but even Beathag found odd to reckon with. To everything their is a season, no? Ana was pulled in closer so they could walk and talk at the same time, for thoughts flowed better when they weren't stagnant. "Ah can nay recall his name, but he was a boisterous scrap o' a boy, mannerful still. Yer dog followed him clean out o' Turas Lan n' all abouts sae Ah've heard. He says he comes from Ireland, aye, n' set out tae find ye when he heard ye'c ome here, but has had nay luck o' it yet. Think one o' m'messangers told me last place they saw him was in the country towns outside o' Turas Lan. He 'as 'im dark hair.. Con..hmmm...Caden! Tha's his name" (d)
Ana: "Aye, I was plannin' tae.. I knew ye'd want tae 'ear th' whole thin'." She laughed at that, her arm looping 'bout Bess in return as they began walking. Listening to her description of the lad, her brow furrowed. That.. sounded familiar. Why did..? And then she said that name. Caden. Morrigan stumbled and nearly hit the ground, looking up at Bess with wide eyes and a nearly horrified expression. "Caden? Caden McCullough? Ye gods, 'ow did that li'l rascal get all th' way 'ere!" She paled. The thought of her young cousin making his way all the way across Ireland and then to Skye..! She had to find him! Then tan his hide and ship him back to her kin in Kildare. Spots of red rose in hercheeks as her anger flared, and she muttered. Figures that little scamp would follow her, and she couldn't say she didn't love him.. he was almost like a little brother.. but still! It was so reckless. "I should 'ave known 'e'd follow me. When I left my kin in Ireland, 'e wanted tae come with me, but I would nay let 'im." She shook her head. Foolish little pain in her rump.
Beathag "Determined little lout. Could nay keep 'im in he castle. One ' the maids took 'im out with her tae the market, says he was distracted by somewot, went tae look in tha' was the end o' Caden! Been tryin tae pin a tail on 'im e'er since but did nay 'ear much more until the countryside news. Mm, sorry could nay hold him with a bit o' a harder hand for ye.." Kin was important! Beathag felt a moment's regret that she gave the rover a bit too much reign and not enough pull-back. "I'm sure if ye ask any o' the folks here abouts he can surely be found," she comforted, "They be such goodly folk, someone's surely taken him off the road n' kept him safe. All the towns in the hills follow after the Apollius' sae Ah'm sure he's hear.." She gently squeezed Ana's hand and gave a little sigh. Was nothing lacking adventure in Skye? To the back of her some miles, she had to return in order to meet the Lady Isabella. That, and Roger Mortimer, were talk for another day. (d)
requiem of days: "`Tis nay yer fault, Bess. 'e's a wily li'l lad, 'e could escape from shackles an' a tower with nay key." She rolled her eyes, a mixture of annoyed and amused. Caden had that effect on most people, especially his cousin. "Och, should nay be 'ard tae find 'im.. then I'll get 'im sent back tae th' clan, an' they can deal with him." She chuckled at that, looking at their surroundings with a touch of thoughtfulness. Now that she was back in Skye, it was high time she set about finding a home of her own and a steady occupation. Surely there was someone who could use a good hand with horses, or something. She looked back over at the taller woman, head tilting in that way it always did when she was curious. "Wot else 'ave I missed?" She was gone for quite some time, after all, no doubt there had been happenings aplenty and she wanted to know!
Beathag: "All o' the adventure, Ana, seems tae have followed ye a few hours South o'er the seas. We are a steady n' calm country ah fear, we just may bore ye tae tears with our talks o' who in court is havin a child, who shall marry, wot a clansmen is brewin," she teased; all of these things were God-blessed simple compared to a sky filled with flame, pots of oil over castle walls. Baracades. seige, and seasons of blood flowing over ice. No, it seemed that Skye hadestablished herself as an entity at once for, and even greater than Scotland. Indeed, one wild Highland Island in the Atlantic now held the entire chain of all islands united in their hands. Isabelle and Roger were a matter for her and Adam to contend with hard won, established diplomacy and a Scott's streak of ability to see through pretty, peddle shyte. Breathing in, the nothing continued to be offered as the something that was going on. "N' Ah rather like tha' way. Much prefer m'husband n' bed than fer sixty days in another country smoothin someone o'er. Tis almost time fer the first harvest soon." (d)
Ana: "Och, nay! 'Tis a blessin' tae be back where life is calm an' that's all th' excitement tae be 'ad." Outright laughing at that! Please, she was so ready to settle down into a simple life. Though she got the feeling that with Saul featuring prominently in her life, it would be anythin but calm and simple. Her heart fluttered at the thought and her stomach rolled, though not unpleasantly, and she absently pressed a hand to her abdomen as though to quell the organ's stirring. "Ne'er thought 'twould say it, but.. that sounds like 'eaven on earth." She paused, as though considering her words, and nodded. "Aye, that it dae." Husband? Probably not anytime soon. But she could understand the appeal of spending time with someone dear to your heart. She became aware of the nearly dreamy smile that had worked its way onto her lips and promptly stifled it, tucking it away into a box for later. No need to let everyone and their mother see that untamable, untouchable Ana had been, if not tamed - never tamed, not this lass - then at the least touched at last.
Beathag: The Mo'r Oukselo concured, looking across the simple beaten earth lane, with a few houses and businesses spread across it. In her hand was a red, ripe simple apple. In her heart was a song that only the land could furnish in its state of blissfulness. No restraint was ushered to stop it, or make the drum beats hush inside of her heart. But what secrets did a young woman have, hmm? "Sae now, all smiles n' rescuin' princes. Ah take it tha' ye n' the Prince Saul are makin a pair?"" Beathag was able to speak low to keep secrets that, but alas, well past thirty and four years till forty made her a rather insightful woman. Blonde brow arched as they continued down the lane (d)
Ana: Off in lala land - which wasn't all that unusual, given how Ana was - she was a bit surprised to hear the words from Bess. A flush filtered into her cheeks as she offered a sheepish grin, quietly offering her reply. "..Is it that obvious?" She didn't realize she was being so.. transparent. But it was just so hard not to be happy. She'd never thought something like this would happen to her, but.. ah. Just thinking of Saul made those flutters rise again, and she bit back a fit of giggles as sparkling eyes lifted to those of Bess. "I cannae say 'twas expectin' it.. but it does nay seem as.. stiflin' as I always thought 'twould be." As it had felt with the one male that had ever tried to court her before. Then again.. Kade Tiernay had wanted to change her, to make her into some perfect little housewife. That wasn't Morrigan Stirling, at all.
Beathag "Ye know a thing or two 'bout such things when ye've 'ad them yerself n' seen a few more." Transparent? No, but obvious enough for the more senior to ask the younger after her reason for the flushed face. Happiness should be granted everyone, and youth held the promise of making the oncoming years far better if one could be matched in desire, mirth, goodness, and humor with someone who felt the same. While advocating the benefits of good arrangements, she'd abstained from a second match for eleven years until Aodhan's father, and on his death sought nothing for three years until Adam proved that the third time was ultimately the charm. It was good that Ana, sweet and good Ana, was having some light given her. Everyone has a match. Behold her sister and Eamonn! Somewhere between the middle of the market settlement and perhaps the center of thought, Beathag offered, "Best things beh unexpected. Enjoy each bit o' it." She by no means was looking for a man. She just wanted to go to the market for one thing, ended up with goatsmilk, cheese, bread, a man, and a baby named Edme. True story. (d)
Ana: Well she was glad it wasn't just written openly on her face. Being a very private person, that would've mortified her to no end. She couldn't help feeling light as air, though, as she walked alongside her friend, her eyes aglow and her heart positively overflowing. "I fully intend tae dae just that." And she did. She didn't know where this thing with Saul would lead. She had no expectations, and honestly, no hopes aside from wanting to be by his side for many years to come. So as long as she could do that.. she would be happy. Her kin would likely disapprove if they ever found out, but that didn't much matter to her. It was her life. Not their's. She would take things as they came. Blisswas within reach! And she would grasp it with both hands and hold onto it with everything she had.
Beathag: "Good, tha' is the best part o'it, Ah think." She finished up the apple and offered the core to a refuse bucket at the end of a stall, pondering what else to indulge in. "Sae wot o' er yer own future, now tha' ye are home. Wot will ye dae fer keep in such?" Then there was the ever present question of what to do for drink. At this rate, Willingham would be enjoying a mighty patronage from the Aberdeens. Even now she was turning to buy two cups of the finest apple-brandy for herself and Ana, because she could! Maybe some of the pulled-pork to go with it, and the bread. Thank goodness Adam loved his women ample! (d)
Ana: She watched Bess curiously as the woman retrieved two cups of some drink, and took one when it was offered, though she hesitated for a moment before drinking as she remembered that night by the gypsy fire. She was always careful of what she drank now! But she sipped at the drink, making a soft 'mm' of pleasure at its taste, before responding. "I.. dinnae know, right off. I was meanin' tae speak with any o' th' noble 'ouses, see if may'aps any need a good 'and with their 'orses, afore I went off tae Avaria.. I'll see tae that once I return tae Turas Lan." Undoubtedly someone was in need of a stablehand, and she was most capable of pulling her own weight.
Beathag: "There's a'plenty in the city but the stables o' city folk be a might small, though the outlyin' folks with manors nay far from the city may be a good election, sae ye may have nough room tae run n' showcase yer talent. Ah'd be gladtae write ye a forwardin' letter, attestin' to yer skills." The sweet sting in the cup wasn't enough to plaster anyone on their ass unless they decided to indulge in over plentiful cups of over plentiful numbers. At this last stall she had more than drink to pick up, or apple cores to release. Her handmaiden Heather sat with the lady in waiting to Davina, Amelia, entertaining the princess while each visited with friends who'd settled in the region. A mother's arms were happy to take up the burden, babe and cup included. "Ana did ye e'er meet Heather n' Amelie? These fine ladies 'elped Adam deliver our precious." Fine? Both of them blushed, come from the sorts of stock that servants were picked out of. Fine? It made heather giggle and Amelie grin. (d)
Ana Ana had most definitely learned her lesson about over-indulgence. "I am nay familiar with any o' th' families in th' area, but I will be sure tae seek 'em out.. thank ye." Showcase her talent? That might be a proper term for someonewho trained horses - something she would probably be good at, if ever given the chance - but not so for a simple stablehand. Mucking out stalls and grooming was what she was used to and often employed for, which was fine by her. Following along behind Bess, she smiled at the duo of girls and cooed at the babe. "Well, 'tis nice seein' ye again, yer li'l 'ighness." Turning her attention to the ladies then, she nodded in greeting. "Nice tae meet ye both." She eyed Davina again, head tilting ever so slightly to one side. Children. Cute little things, they were. Crazy to think she'd ever have any of her own! But maybe something she would need to start considering? Oh no Ana, don't you dare go down that path.
Beathag: "Good to meet ye, miss," "A lovely day is it nay? The princess thinks so!" Heather spoke first, Amelie second, and longer, less shy than her younger companion. When she offered Davina to her mother she offered Ana a hand. Bright eyes. Dark hair, a buttoned nose, and a figure fed on cream and bread made her a favorite of the unmarried men and a treat if you looked for humor in your castle life, and a know-it-all for eveything among the servants. Davina was all of six months, rounding out to seven! Auburn curls were plentiful, already a face with bangs to frame it and enough hair to be held back in a thin litle ribbon. She flapped her arms with excitement on seeing hermother. For her part, Beathag all but melted. Could it be that they'd have another such blessing, her and Adam? She hoped, oh how she did! Age be damned, she loved being a mother! "'Ello sweet'eart, 'ello! Wot 'ave ye been about hmm, tryin tae fly?" (d)
Ana: "Aye, quite lovely indeed." She chuckled, and hesitated only a moment before reaching out to take the girl's hand, giving it a small shake. Shy Ana is shy! But before she wouldn't have been able to smile while doing so. Perhaps the prince of bards was having a good effect on her after all! Of course he was a scoundrel of the best sort, so who knew what other changes he might effect on the introverted lass? She laughed softly at Davina's arm flapping and Bess's comment. "If'n she takes a shine tae tryin' tae fly, she's bound tae love flyin' on th' wings o' a 'orse's runnin' feet when she gets older." It seemed reasonable to her, though she was mostly jesting. The munchkin was too cute for her own good. "Och, she'll be drawin' th' lads left an' right afore long.. 'er da will 'ave 'is work cut out fer 'im tryin' tae keep 'em at bay, eh?" Chuckle.
Beathag: "Mmm, Ah'm confident she shall give any lad a turn 'pon a horse. Uncle Eamonn n' yer Ana will see tae tha' no? Won't ye be just bonnie on yer first pony.." Dreaming of years when months were how she counted Davina's age, she stillcould not get over Aodhan being the fitting age to care for his own horse! There still was something to be said for a girl, though. Aodhan was the center of her universe, but with the rightness of men in his life soon he'd slip away to things a boy should be concerned of, but a lass would be in some way bound to her mother's side not for merely parentage, but for want of being there. All they could share made her smile. "She looks like Adam's mother n' m' mother tae a tee, more sae Adam's mother...her namesake was a beauty tae rival any age, o' wot shall we dae when they come tae court ye girl? Thank God ye've only learned tae crawl." Not flirt, or sigh, or make a bosom heave. No,she was but a babe and for this her mother was thankful! Off to the side there was a little table to sit at and she did so. "Yer brothers will have tae be fierce just as ye will be beautiful." (d)
Ana: "Oh aye, we could nay let any lad best ye, aye, li'l 'ighness?" She laughed at that and settled down near Bess, taking a sip from her drink before her head tilted, eyes peering thoughtfully at Davina. "She's bound tae be quite th' beauty, aye." If her father's good looks were what Ana remembered, seeing as she hadn't seen the Duke in quite some time, and with Bess's beauty.. ah yes. She would be well sought after for more than her station. Another soft laugh. "I can see it now; lads come callin' fer th' fair Davina, only tae be chased off by 'er brothers with threats o' violence!" She barely suppressed a snort on the end of a peal of soft giggles, hesitantly reaching over to oh so gently poke the youngster's soft-skinned little arm.
Beathag: "Tha; could ne'er be! All the lady yer mum was nay when she was young, ye'll be able tae hide the smug grin a'better," She chortled, watching Davina turn to Ana. Would she hold her? The little girl wanted to crawl off onto Ana's lap to investigate her face, where her voice was coming from. One little foot was already on Ana's lap, and boy, was she determined! "Seems she wishes tae make friends. Let's 'ope Aodhan retains some o' the gentility he's afamed fer now." His gentle nature with Adam's calm was a good influence for years spent under the boisterous rhythm of Beathag's famous Highland personality. When she laughed, it was gay. When she smiled, it was bonnie. If she got angry, run. Her bouts of temper during the first year of the reign were the stuff of legend when one found the calm, good hearted soul who offered up her curious daughter to Ana. "She will 'ave many brothers, n' sisters tae grow with Gods willin." (d)
Ana Oh dear. Munchkin at 2 o'clock. Her eyes widened when Davina apparently decided she would be fun new territory to investigate, and though she was most unaccustomed to being around children - fortunate for her none of her kin had had any children under the age of four present while she was there, or she would've been in a bind - and her movements were slightly awkward, hands came to gently grasp the youngster and steady her while she familiarized herself with Ana's personage. "`Twould be quite a blessin', aye." She eyed Davina cautiously. Babies were not her usual fare. But perhaps buried somewhere beneath that tomboyish nature and those rough hands lurked a mother's heart, for as the tension of unease fled her shoulders and her grasp on the child became a bit less awkward, a smile slowly curled on her lips and she chuckled with an absent murmur. "`Tis nay as odd as I thought 'twould be." She'd had horrible visions of getting butterfingers and dropping a child when she held them, but she wasn't doing all that bad! Which not only surprised her, but somehow pleased her. However she was a bit puzzled by the strange yet achey warmth that bubbled up within her chest and settled there. What in the bloody hell.
Beathag: There was no stopping Davina, who was already squirming out of her mother's arms to climb Ana like a favorite tree with branches she wanted to sit in. Beathag found she didn't have to caution Ana in how to support her, but she was of that age where babies become quite sturdy. She held up her own head, her back could be straight. She sat up on her own, and was a pretty efficient little crawler! Davina thoroughly enjoyed the attention, jumping up on Ana's lap, up and down with glee before reaching out atiny hand to tap Ana's mouth. "Bairin 'are hearty! Eery woman has tha' in her somewhere, comes natural. Look at tha'! She likes ye." Two hands were pressed on Ana's chest, Davina looking up to her with big, sea green eyes (d)
Ana: "Babes 'ave ne'er been somethin' I cared tae get familiar with.. ne'er thought I would 'ave tae be." She laughed at Davina's happiness, making a face at the girl with her nose scrunched up. "I ne'er thought I would 'ave any meself.. or that I would want any, fer that matter." She grinned, worn fingers gently tickling the child's sides. Then she paused, and got wide-eyed. "Er, that's nay tae say that I dae want 'em, or plan tae, or.. er.. um..." Awkward! And there went those cheeks flaring a bright red. Blast. Where had that come from! This was a classic case of Ana-style open mouth-insert foot, and she decided it was best if she just stopped talking, so she decided to look down at Davina, finding herself looking into green eyes. She suddenly had the urge to check and make sure there was no hay in her hair...
Beathag: Wouldn't you just know it, there was a stray piece of hay in Davina's hair, save! A perfect change of subject, certainly. As fumbling, blubbering Ana went on Beathag could only grin. Well, well! Change indeed! Such that wouldcause her to think on children or anything to do with their ilk! "Ye remind me o' Aislin. She delivered a'plenty o' babes but did nay hold 'em or take a claim tae wantin one, nor a man fer tha' matter but sometimes things change. Eamonn did nay think he'd have such things either, n' now they've two handsome children. N' each other, first n' foremost. Ye ne'er know, but just enjoy the current lass. Ye dun 'ave tae start poppin' out children tae morrow. Times a good thing." Such as being the authority on child rearing over thirty! Davina began to curl up into Ana's arms. Who couldn't love that child? (d)
Ana: "O' course nay. 'Tis just a thought. Nay that I'm 'avin' such thoughts." She would deny it till the day she had her own child, most likely. Notorious non-lady-like Morrigan Stirling did not think of children. And she did not happily cuddle another's child in her arms. Like she was just doing. Nope! "I 'ope tae see Eamonn an' Aislin afore long." Eamonn had somewhat taken her under his wing, back in Inverness, and she always felt a certain kinship to him. She could only hope he and his family were well and happy, wherever they were and whatever they were doing. She smiled at the cuddly Davina and glanced over at Bess with a slight inclination of her head to one side. "Ye an' sir Adam be 'opin' for more children, aye?" Seemed it was going around, what with Eirian having a baby too!
Beathag: "Aye, we ne'er thought such thing was possible. Twas supposedly bairin after m'first son came far tae early, then ye take intae account m'years at fightin' n' all such hardship..does nay boon well fer a woman. Aodhan Ah thought was a very blessed fluke. His birth was 'ard n' more scarin, more flux..well had him n' Adam adopted a little Lowland girl, n' we named her Edme, n' Ah adopted them both sae we had two children..n' then when Edme died.." That was still hard to think about, Edme would have been well on her way past two, near three. "We had Aod..but he believed with all his heart ah was nay as done fer as Ah thought I was. I didn't even have me cycles anymore but.. well..he was right. Ah've always wanted a big family, came from one meself. The thought o' bein a grandmother sits well with me tae." (d)
Jack: What would Bess and Ana make of it, when they heard the laughing of children in the air? Through the crowd, a pair of them would weave. The one that t'was indeed in the lead, t'was a young lad known to all as the Ebony Prince. And behind him? Hearled by the cheery cries of "Imma gonna get ya, Aod! Imma gonna get ya!" and her shock of red hear, could only be the Lord-Governor's young daughter, Seanna. The two seemed carefree as to what the crowd - or their own parents - seemed to think of this kinda behavior. After all. When you were young, shouldn't all life be as this? As a game? As Aod emerged from the crowd, he did the natural thing: he darted off to hide behind his mother. Whether or not this was a good tactic would hafta be discussed later, because Seanna darted out of the corwd as well, "Imma get ya Aod!" She almost stumbled to a stop, seeing Bess there. The young girl, clad in a pair of buck skin pants and a tunic, beamed widely. There was an excited call of "Aintín Bess!" before she darted into Bess's arms. Ready or not, here she came! And following behind? The Lord-Governor himself. (D)
Ana: "Ye'd make a bonnie grandmother, Bess. And I dinnae doubt ye'll live tae see it 'appen." She smiled brightly at her friend. She was fully convinced that Bess was eternal. War hadn't killed the woman, she would live forever. Simple as that, in Ana's eyes. She heard the laughter of children, and looked around to see if she could find its source, just as Aodhan made his appearance and hid behind his mother. Morrigan blinked, then smiled at the boy, only to blink once more and eyes go wide when an unfamiliar lass threw herself into Bess' arms. She tilted her head, then looked down at Davina, talking to the babe. "Seems yer mama is a might bit popular taeday, eh, li'l 'ighness?" She chuckled,once again gently tickling the kiddo perched on her lap.
Beathag: War hadn't killed Beathag, nor the jailer, nor sickness, nor sorrow had killed her either. No, once there was a tale of poison killing her but then the same instance she returned from the dead after laying for a day or two in state. Beathag wouldn't die until she was good and ready to die, somwhere beyond ninety and over the moon. Her golden hair would be streaked with gray, her eyes still bright, and her hands wizened but strong when she told the Gods she was ready to go to the halls of her father and mother. Right now she had children to rear, fun to have! Aodhan barreled behind her, causing her to turn her head for a split second to ask what he was doing only to find his assailant catapuling herself into her arms! Wouldn't you fancy this would be the last child she'd thought to see, and had wondered if maybe the Flynns had gone on holiday to Ireland to manage their claim in person. Beathag wrapped her arms around the pretty red headed girl, kissing her cheeks many tmes over, "Seanna! 'ello ! Where ye been darlin, let me look at ye, 'ave ye gotten bigger? Aodhan where'd ye find Seanna at?" Aodhan could find her anywhere! "Morrigan this is Seanna Flynn, the Irish Govenor's daughter, now..where be the Irish Govenor. I'd introduce ye if I saw 'im.." It was hard to do that, what over excited red curls and her son blabbering away about the games the two were playing. "He's m'bond-brother, sae tha' makes Seanna one o' m'nieces. Me eldest one at tha'...darlin where's yer Poppa aye?" (d)
Seanna: Seanna smiled up at Bess, "'E's there!" She turned to point behind her, toward where the Irishman - was it still so odd to see him out of his naval uniform? - was making his way through the crowd with one of his valets at his heels. As Seanna pointed this out, she was cautiously watching Aod out of the corner of her eye. Obviously, lulling him into a false sense of security! And with that, Bess came pot of the playing field. There was a "Gotchya!" as she twisted about to latch onto Aod's collar and the shoulder of one arm. Then she beamed, just as broadly when she'd seen her aunt, "Yer it, Aod!" There was a chuckle from the Irishman, who was ladened under full set of tack for a horse - athough it was made (quite beautifully! With the gaelic flaire for the local craftsmen) for one about Seanna's age. T'was an oddity, though. While for his daughter it t'was, it was not a side saddle. It was a saddle that was for boys. Behind him, his valet was carrying the full tack and harness for saddle with similar designs - but this was a side-saddle and made for the grown-ups. For Maggie, no doubt. He grinned at Bess, "Sorry, Bess....
Beathag: "Tha's alright, Jack. Did nay know ye was in these parts, sae tis a good suprise. Wot brings ye tae Willingham? Ah be makin wot they call the old tradition o' the ' Lady's Paces." Generally that was the Court's paces or the Queen's paces. But Queen was a title that like Adam she vehemently avoided, despite what the current climate suggested. By now Aodhan was busy chasing the released Seanna all over again to enact his royal revenge. Ana had other business to return to, following a lead on a particular Irish lad from Kilarde so Davina returned to her mother's arms. " N' decided tae come through the countryside 'ere. Somethin' just simple n' with lil fanfair." She only had herself and a few women with the requiste guards. No banners, streamers, or that folderol. "Ah see tack there! Are ye getting things fer the women tae enjoy ridin?" (d)
Jack While they had been talking, Jack had given demour orders to his footman. To ensure that the saddle and tack that the valet carried made it back to his rented rooms for the night. Then he grinned broadly, "Aye! Tha' it be. Maggie 'as recently taken up tha ridin' with Seanna an' meself.... when she can, o' course." He grins, "Seanna an' 'er pony are nae the only ones tha are growin. The twins be growin' like weeds!" The way the Irishman seemed so animated and love with his kids, it was hard to believe that he was closing in on his 50th year. There was a smile, as he motioned to the tack, "Maggie be tellin' me tha Seanna dun ride right - " he grinned, "Says she rides like 'er Da - so I had at get a saddle ta oblige 'er. Picked up some matchin' stuff fer Maggie, ta try and smooth things out." (D)
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Beathag: "My goodness! What a brewd ye 'ave, looks like a tree she does, all this height n' tha' hair! Got longer. My, my, she'll be a young lady soon enough. N' wot o' the twins, tryin' tae crawl yet?" Crawl away from their mother and give their father a reason to 'feel' his age! She took in the story of a young girl who didn't ride right, grinning at the fact while Seanna's shirt was flowered, she wore pants, not a skirt, when out with her beloved Da. The tack, though matched, did show that Maggie road side-saddle in the fashion that allowed her propriety but to still be active, where Seanna favored no restrictions. "Ah well, she'll 'ave plenty o' time tae learn tae ride both ways. Ah've ne'er ridden right either. Just allow enough skirt tae be tucked about if Ah'm upon m'own horse. Mum n' daughter will look a treat with the matching tack. Ye ought get matchin' ridin' clothes tae." She grinnned, "Split skirts in Seanna's dress, sae she can ride like a man without it a'flyin up ye see." (d)
Jack Jack laughed, grinned, shaking his head, "Aye? T'would ne'er o' occurred ta me.... but ya might be onta somethin' there." He gave a playful wink, "Awfully dreadful tryin ta get Maggie to wear a pair of britches....." And just the oppisite for Seanna! Fortunately, Seanna was still for and away from her tween or even teenage years. While some rebellion could be tolerated, she still knew to do whatever her Dad said in that special voice only parents getThat said, wasn't a bad thought. There was a smile, "Mmm. Ye are upon somethin' there, I'd be wagering....." There was muttering about the That said, wasn't a bad thought. There was a smile, "Mmm. Ye are upon somethin' there, I'd be wagering....." There was muttering about the possibility of getting in trouble, if Maggie caught him altering some of Seanna's older dresses for that. Then he grinned, "Aye. There tis nae much of Dunluce tha' tha twins 'ave nae managed to explore yet. Made it necessiary ta actually start closing the door ta rooms they are in...." Then he paid back the compliment. "Aod seems ta be growin' bout as quickly as Seanna....." He grinned, "Still got a hairs length ta go, afore Seanna catchs up with him. Tis Davani givin' ye as much trouble as m'twins are?" (D)
Beathag: "Sit ye down awhile, Jack Flynn! The children be amusin' themselves n' there's time yet tae enjoy the food as well as Willin'ams goods. 'Ave ye tried some o' the fruit, 'er the apple brandy, the milk? Sae good n' hearty here." She pulled out a chair for the Lord-Govenor of Ireland to sit with the Mo'r Oukselo, never imagining a day when two country celts would have such power and esteem that they'd own their own islands and England too! That wasn't the point now though. She was glad he'd come a'visitng from Dunlace. so many things were changing, and much of the court were going on to their own lives around the Island or to other countries. "Davina's a fast one, she be, crawlin off n' makin e'eryone chase her, twould be a lie iffn I said I did nay 'ave fun daein it. Ahdam n' I are gaein' tae try fer another bairin soon." Soon being the hoped conception before the year was out. Life was amusingly backwards for most women at this age saw their children grown or near grown, while she was only beginning to have them (d)
Jack: There was a smile, as he sat down. Apple brandy, hmm? T'was as good as ordered, such was the recommendation and wait of his sister's words. Then he smiled, hearing that, "I'll be givin' ye tha greatest of luck an' prayer ta see ta' ye dae." With Jack's family and her own, there could be little doubt that Bess wouldn't have the large family that she desired. There was a smile, "Mmm. Maggie 'as a mind ta wait until tha twins are older afore we 'ave another go. Seanna is keen an' all ta 'elp, but iffen Maggie t'was able ta get two o' 'em at a go? We think we might be needin' more help." Then he smiled, "Lizbette tis doin' a fine job, but she does be needin' 'er help." (D)
Beathag: "Look at us, Jack, nearin' forty n' fifty, n' talkin about children as if we beh twenty." The apple brandy was a treat as was even the air hereabouts. The land seemed to flourish, the fertile places contentedly settled under Eirian's open invitation. Where it was to merely be an estate, she ended up cultivating a distinct, new region in an old area of the Island. All that was old was made new again. Davina, the twins, and all good things were proof of "Somehow it seems a 'one o' them is nay sae hard. Aodhan is gaein tae be seven next year, Davina shall be one. Tis good we think tae have someone closer in age fer 'er tae relate tae, n' we wish tae make use o' our good fortune while it holds. It nay bothers me none. Ah could stand another two or three bairins." A large, healthy family of sons and daughters in Turas Lan was as much a dream as anything had ever been to the Highlander. One that she wasmore determined to see done than any act of her past. Not even the liberation of Scotland or the name of her kin could compare to a woman's heart yearning to furnish her beloved the chance to see his face again in other heirs. (d)
Jack: They would settle in to that comfortable chatter of friends and kin, drinking brandy and keeping watch on the children. Eventually, Jack would say, "Tha two 'our eldest 'ave always been neigh inseperable......" He smiled, laughing as he watched the two children somehow decide the public fountain was part of their playing field. They were splashing each other with water, trying to releave some of the heat of the day. There was a smile, "Do you think it will always be such with them?" The way he would turn to look at his bond-sister, would let her know that he was broaching that subject. (D)
Jack: Jack sighed quietly, ".... It is not a subject that I broach often with her." A man's word was final. While Jack did agree with the sentiment of free choice - being a true romantic at heart - he also knew that one could choose.... poorly. What if the good soul that his daughter fell in love with was a wife beater and cad? What if it broke her heart? Would his hands be tied because of his station? He had a romantic and longed to choose. But he had a
Beathag: Friends, family, and brandy were good signs of how far they had come from the wild, unfathomable places of a few years passed. Her eye turned toward Aodhan as he cupped water to pour over Seanna's head, and then his own. Fat rivers went through his many tight braids. He shook it off, sprinkling his playmate much to her delight. His happiness caused her to slip inside of it; warm and easy, a child's world was giving, tender. The harsh edges of adult logic didn't exist. Maybe that was why when Jack asked her if it'd stay that way she answered her bond-brother with "Ah'm sure as often as they shall see each other, aye." The adult turned to him then to look at his face, to see where this was going before offering, "Jack ye know how leery o' arrangements Ah am.." (d)
Jack: There was a smile, as he leaned there, "'Bout as wear o' them as I am......." This was true. He wanted his daughter to be happy, and had roundly dismissed more than few of the local Irish nobility's offspring -- after having watched them at play with Seanna. Only with Aodhan had he seen this behavior. He smiled, "Ya said yerself.... as long as they see eachother, they shall be insperable..... Why shall we nae make it so? I knae m'Seanna does nae act as this round any other boy -- an' I'll be bettin' tha' ye can say tha same for Aodhan." There ewas a smile, "I knae tha' I am her father, an' tha' - far more than I like ta amdit - an arrange marriage tis ta be her lot. E'ery noble gal wishes tha' her father shall pick out a handsome prince fer 'er. And if she dares ta dream? A kind one tae..... In Aodhan, I see all things fer m'daughter there. An' aother? I dae belive this be love at first sight."
(D)
Beathag: "Jack tha' is a falacy. E'ery noble girl hopes her father will pick out a prince is a smilin' face dyin' without the chance tae experience life.." Though for Aodhan wouldn't it be ..harder..to find his own matches? What maid of dark flesh from the Berber or Moslem parts of the world would look at him as if he were equal to their men, with the strange timbre of his voice, his clothes and culture. Who would make such a match..even if he traveled. Still, despite how good the Isle of Skye treated him, to be kind to the prince was one thing, to have children half blackamoor was another. She did not wish to think of the isolated time at Aberdeen spreading outward as a sign for the rest of his life. Would, then, an arranged match with someone who evidently cared for him from childhood, raised to see beyond his flesh, be good for him? It seemed wrong to relegate him to a tradition others were free from because of his skin. "And what if Seanna should grow older n' fall in love with another, twould break both of their hearts. O' course he does nay act tha' way with other lasses, but the way he acts with Seanna can be said the same o' he does nay act the way with Davina he does with other small bairins, nor with his cousins Sorcha and Keeran the way he does o' other boys n' girls. N' wot if Seanna would nay want tae leave Ireland? A married women gaes where her 'usband is. Despite all the laws o' freedom n' choice, e'en ye know as I dae some things are eternal. Wot does yer wife think on this?" (d)
Jack: Jack sighed quietly, ".... It is not a subject that I broach often with her." A man's word was final. While Jack did agree with the sentiment of free choice - being a true romantic at heart - he also knew that one could choose.... poorly. What if the good soul that his daughter fell in love with was a wife beater and cad? What if it broke her heart? Would his hands be tied because of his station? He had a romantic and longed to choose. But he had a romantic heart and fancied he knew true love when he saw it. Whether or not this was true, he didn't know. "I ... I am honest that I see from my eyes, not theres, and may see what they do not. Even though there have been those attending Dunluce seeking to find a match in my Seanna and the twins." He looked like a father, then. Startled. Matching for babies that did not know each other? There was a sigh, "At least in this, I know that they are friends and inseperable." (D)
Beathag: "Tis one ye should 'ave in earnest with her at the vera least. She is helpin to rear Seanna.." If a man's word was final, there was still the classic in him. It was true, too, that the Mo'r Triath's wife would defer to him on many choices, but still he consulted her often. What if she said yes to such an arrangement, and ran the risk of isolating and angering Margaurite? She sighed, pressing the settled Davina closer to her heartbeat. Here in lay the quandry of fair choice, of accepting tradition and even having the chance to question it when one came of age. It was a tentative arrangement, one that to others would seem iron clad. Yet what if it was broken, what risk would they run then? The Govenor of Ireland's eldest daughter, a blood-born child of Dunlace, of the Ceannfort would be looked at with the same prize eyes as any Princess in Europe. Wild islands on the sea were worth a chance to establish a dynasty. Women changed their names, became of other houses. There had been offers for Davina when she was but a fortnight old! "N 'Ah could ne'er make such a decision without Ahdam. Tis nay right, Jack. Hearts bond tae children harder than blood does." Maggie and Adam had as much right to have a say in their step children's future, and for Adam, he had crossed blood with Aodhan. By law of that rite, the boy was his. A streak of worry creased her brow as she watched Aodhan help Seanna from the fountains. "Ah was matched tae Adam, n' life changes. Nay suggestin such horrid things as befell our family will come about again, but tis tae say..one ne'er knows." Still, would she have given up at least some of that past, to let Adam have her, younger and unblemished? So many thoughts swirled in her head now. "N' yet..'en Ah can nay say tha' I dun see..the good sense, n' the safety, they'd both have in such a match." (d)
aptainJackFlynn: There was a soft nod of his head, as he listened to her go on. There was a pause, as she could see him cant his head. Watching his Seanna and young Aod play their games and enjoy the last days of summer. What would the reaction be, when he laughed and smacked his forehead. There was a smile, as he looked at his bonded sister, "Mmm. I think..... we have been forgetting one thing that is true and governs all.... The laws of Skye." There was a soft smile. "As it stands.... any arrangement that we make tis not binding, least the pair o' 'em approave o' it. Tis tha' sae?" There was a smile. (D)
Beathag: "Yer sae right...mm, guess I worry how far our own laws apply tae such children, fer their own protection...but maybe tis tae a boon. Many would nay favor a law o' such advantage, n' by the time o' reckoning tae make decision most ae long since arranged. Could be a subject o' intention, the intention bein' tha' Aodhan n' Seanna would approve such intention, n' then they could be granted a period o' courtship as the bethrothal is made public..hmm." It didn't offend judgement when placed that way, for it made each more a possiblity than a fixed decision, it gave them the advantage of choice. If allowed the chance to visit back and forth between often, which would be quintiessential to their educations, it would continue to foster the chances for natural bonds. "Tha Ah'd find nay fault with. Wot think ye, Jack? " It seemed cruel not to give them the chance to let time and nature find its own way, but still, could not one cultivate one possibility in a sea of many? In truth, it would save them from the potential of the sorts of foreign influence that wanted a prize hat in that all the ocean islands were under one power. liberal or not, that is what Europe saw, beyond the parliments and democracy? One crown over Scotland, Ireland, England, and Wales. (d)
Jack There was a smile, "Mmm." He grinned, "Tha' I find much more ta me likin' then tryin' ta arrange a marriage ta another. Tis nae such a bad thing ta dae, ta give 'em that choice....." Even if, in Jack's opinion, you nurtured the obvious one. There was a smile, a faint chuckle, "I like tha' arragement o'er much. Should be easier ta speak wit' Maggie on tha' topic as well, fer it tis nae so solid ta be set in stone." (D)
Beathag: "N' same with Ahdam, fer Seanna, tis merely important fer her tae have tha' say. Tis part o' why the law was put intae place, tae allow a lass some say in her future. Tae stay er gae. Wot is important n' wot is nay." Adament that a woman should not suffer the throws of misfortune because of some decision of what should be in her saddlebags, like a mare instead of a human, what chance she could have. True, each choice came with their advantages and disadvantages, but at least it was there. For Aodhan, it would mean some possible security. It would mean that he could have a wife who would love him, knew him, and give him children. (d)
