Post by Lady Aislin Creed of Eohmark on May 28, 2008 18:26:37 GMT -6
Eamonn of Eohmark- Things could not always be expected to fall neat and orderly or into place. Sometimes, they needed a nudge or push their to guide them. However, that was easier said than done. Aislin would be coming back to Skye soon, and Eamonn wanted nothing more than to greet her at the docks, to see her bright face again and hold her close to him. Unfortunately, Eamonn was unable to leave the bed. For the first time in his life--without injury, poison, of thing of the like--he was sick. Very sick. Little did he know that stress could overwhelm a man and bear down upon him like death itself and cause terrible illness. Fever had set in as the body tried to combat this foreign illness, and it had been a battle for days now. Eamonn could not even have Sorcha near him for fear of passing whatever this was--though it could not be passed on--could be transferred to his little girl. Eamonn would not risk such. Laying in the bed in simply the long sleeping tunic, his eyes were half open, some parts of his blonde hair were clinging to dampened flesh of face and neck. a pail had been place beside the bed for regurgitation, and the nurses did do all they could for him. However, they were still learning their craft from Aislin. His breaths were shallow and with a slight wheeze to it, and Eamonn tried to keep those coughing spasms at bay. He did not understand...how could he get sick? Why was he ill? Cormack waited at the docks of Lidweard with a few other riders standing beside their horses, waiting for their Lady of Eohmark to come ashore once again.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin had been gone for at least five days, making it nearly a weeks time that had passed since she last saw her husband. Moving along the sea from one island to the other had proven to be what the fates had in mind, because along the way many things had occurred. No matter what, she missed her husband and Sorcha, for she was so use to seeing them every day, it was very different not to. Thankfully she had Aman-un-Din by her side to keep some sort of familiar face close by though he seemed to be missing those here in Skye as well, or she assumed such with how he smiled as the boat pulled into the Dock.``We be home again my friend. It is nice to have some where to belong aye? `` After Aman-ud-Din answers with his words of wisdom, Aislin moved after Malick to leave the ship and headed towards her men who were awaiting. Echo threw her head back and forth and neighed to show her excitement as Aislin drew closer in her male attire. Ocean eyes shifted to each man and gave a soft smile. ``It is good to see ye all. Thank ye for coming to get us.`` When she did not see Eamonn, she looked to Cormack and rose a brow to silently ask where he was and why was he not here to greet her? The crew men made ready to unload the things on the ship so that they could go back with Aman-ud-Din to the main city. Moving to stroke Echo's forehead, she gave her friend a kiss and then moved around to mount her with care
Cormack of Eohmark- Once the ship came into view, Cormack gave a small smile. Well, Aislin could not have arrived home at an opportune time, but it was not of glad tidings she would come home to. Cormack wished a great many things, and at this moment, he wished that Eamonn could have been here to greet his wife. Instead, he was quarantined in his room and to a bed. Eamonn insisted, but his body refused and kept him there. When the ship finally docked and Aislin as well as her male escourts came down from the ship, Echo began to dance in place, eager to see her rider again. Cormack smiled softly and bowed his head in a silent respect for their Lady of Eohmark. The other horsemen mounted and sat at the waiting, while Cormack stepped closer and helped Aislin into the saddle, waiting until she was mounted before telling her the gloomy news. Swiftly mounting his own steed, he wheeled the horse around and pulled up beside Aislin. ``It is good to see you as well, Lady Aislin...unfortunately, your husband could not come to the docks, though he did try...I am afraid that illness has fallen over him...it has kept him in bed for nearly four days now, and does not seem to get better...but worse. I cannot be certain for I am no doctor...but Eamonn has been under great stress from duty and perhaps personal things that might have...collapsed upon him and brought on this illness...I have seen it many times before in other soldiers...but he is in need of your good care to make him better. Know that he did try to come, stubborn mule, but his body would not allow it.`` Cormack replied, before setting his horse into motion alongside Aislin's.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was glad to have Cormack's help. While she was not showing as much as others, she knew he babe rested within her body and did not wish to stress it out any more then it may have been with past events. A hand moved to her stomach as she sat upon Echo's mount and turned her head towards Cormack`` How long has he been ill Cormack? Is it that bad.`` the reins were placed within her hands as she listened and kept her ocean eyes on Cormack. ``Then let us nay delay any longer`` She waited for the other men to move and as soon as Cormack moved ahead, she went to follow, letting them take lead while a few others closed the circle around her as they went to Heahburg as fast as they could. Once there, Aislin had dismounted and handed her reins to a stable person before a hand reached out to stroke Echo's fur. Quickened steps took her to where her husband would be present, making ladies bow their heads and men move out of the way so she could get to him faster.
Cormack of Eohmark- Cormack knew that it was serious enough to require a more skilled physician, and if Aislin had not come back so soon, they would have had no choice but to send for another physician in Turas Lan to at least do something to keep the sickness at bay. There were no better hands than Aislin's. Perhaps even her presence would lend itself to helping Eamonn turn to the mend. With haste they moved back to Heahburg, the men protecting Aislin with Cormack to lead the way. Once they arrived, Cormack took her horse's reins as another helped the Lady down from the steed. She made haste to see her husband, and Cormack was glad. With her here, he knew that Eamonn would have the best care.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn resided still in their shared room, alone in the large bed with the covers pulled up to mid chest. His eyes had finally closed now, and despite the lightness of sleep, it did give him a moment of torturous peace. If listened to closely, the labor of his breathing could be heard, a sign that he was not so worse off as he could be. The nurses had done what they could, and it did some good. The nurses in the room stepped back, silently thankful Aislin was home again. One had a handful or clothes that had been use to soak in the cold water beside his bed and dab his brow to help draw a stubborn fever out.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was unsure as to what she would need, for she as not sure how bad her husband was. Could it be a illness not caught with a blade's tip or poisons to move it along? It was not so uncommon. There were few people that came to her with aches in their heads and other places within their body, that were random. Removing the cloak, pushed the door to their chambers opened and tossed it aside as she went straight for the bed where Eamonn was laying to rest. Ocean eyes glanced towards the nurse and she gave a curt nod of her head. ``Thank ye for attending to him. Has he been eating or nay?`` She waited silently for the nurse to answer and show the bucket that was filled halfway with his vomit. The room's windows had been opened, so it was harder to smell it when she had come inside.`` Bring some bread to me and ask a few of the men if they can bring in some buckets to fill the tub.`` her voice had softened strangely enough. Seeing Eamonn weak made Aislin weak in her soul. He was her lover, father to her children and her most trusted companion. Each time she feared she would loose him, made her heart ache. Without hesitation, she sat upon the side of the bed and removed her boots before turning over and climbing into bed at his side. He was left under the covers while she remained above them. She could hear his breathing as she removed the cloth from his head, blew on it to cool it down and then placed it back onto his forehead.`` My heart... ah am here. Will ye wake for me now?`` she asked the same question he had once to her. That calm look remained on her face even as she felt that irregular heart beat within her chest.
Nurse- The nurse glanced between Aislin and Eamonn, looking over the Horse lord once more before her eyes were forced to return to the grand physician. She swallowed a bit hard, and searched for an answer to best give her. The windows had been opened to allow that brisk breeze into the room to sweep out the sickly air that lingered. It did well to keep him from getting sick from the smells and fumes that illness tended to do. ``No, my Lady. We have tried to give him breads, soups, water even, but his stomach seems to reject anything that is put in..`` She answered, finally, before nodding and setting the cloths on the table beside the bed and bowl of cold water. Rushing off to fetch some bread left Aislin and Eamonn alone.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Hearing her voice made his heart skip a precious beat, and slowly his eyes opened part-way, lids heavy. The blonde horseman swallowed hard. Was he dreaming? Was Aislin truly here? Brows furrowed a bit in near disbelief. ``A..aislin?`` He whispered hoarsely, clearing his throat to stifle rising coughs. ``Am...am I dre--aming?`` He inquired, before he felt the tickle in his throat. Oh no. Not again. The coughs came, and sitting up as fast as his body would allow him, he coughed, leaning over the side of the bed with his back to her as his body shook with coughs, gags, and towards the end, dry heaves. Only when it finally ended did he fall back down onto the bed again and turn his dull eyes to his wife. Clearing his throat once more, the barest of smiled curled the ends of his lips upward. ``I...am glad you a-are home.`` He admitted in a tone so low and broken it was scarely heard. This was not a dream, Aislin was finally back home, and Eamonn was so glad to have her back. He missed and longed for her presence terribly.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin smiled softly as she looked to her husband's stressed face and eased her soft hand along the sweat and dirt laced hairs that were found upon his face. She could see his brows furrow and hear his cracked voice as he spoke. ``Aye Husband... ah be here. I have returned home to ye as ah promised ah would.`` She moved back a bit as she saw his chest do a odd heave and then the coughing came after he asked if he was dreaming. Aislin followed him up, moving to place her hands on his back as he leaned over the bed. She could feel how warm his skin was to the touch, but that could be from the warmth outside and him laying in bed. Instead of patting his back, she rubbed it to help ease out those coughs and gags. A soft kiss was placed to his back before her forehead leaned against it to feel his body racked with shakes and jerks until finally it stopped for a bit. She moved back with him until he was settled and looking to her with dull eyes once more. `` As am ah husband. It is nay a dream. `` She leaned over to kiss his cheek gently, not sure what he had yet but wanting to feel his flesh to her own. As she pulled back, ocean eyes peered down to his face while she hovered over him.`` Tell me husband, how do ye feel? When did this start and how? Ah know ye be tired, but ah need to know so ah can make ye better.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn hated being ill. It made him feel utterly weak. In a sense, he was. His body was sore, a numbness that he had never felt before, a grogginess that no soldier dare give in to, a fatigue that was not fathomable to the Horse Lord. The cough that racked his tall frame became more and more painful, his lungs were burning from the numerous coughs that left them raw, and his throat ached from regurgitation far too many times. His head was spinning with fever unconquered. Her lips placed a kiss upon his clothed back as muscles rippled and tensed with his actions. Finally, he was laying on the bed, peering up at his wife lazily. The baby. She should not be near him if he was contagious, that would risk the health of a child and Eamonn did not want to lose her or their second child if it could be help. Another small cough made the Adam's apple of his neck bob, though lips would not let it out for they were pressed together tightly in defiance. Cheeks puffed out somewhat before sinking back in. His eyes closed, and heated flesh loved the bit of attention that she gave, a touch from her that he missed, even though it had only been five days passed. When she pulled back and asked him what ailed him, his eyes opened partly and he took a light breath of air. ``It...started perhaps four days ago...when I left from Turas Lan. I...I did not feel well after a... a...'discussion' with the Duchess...I feel..tired...cannot seem to stop cough...cannot keep anything down for long..my head aches and chest burns from coughing so much....I...I have never...been this ill before, Aislin...you and our child should not be near me...I do not want to get anyone else to fall ill..`` He replied, his husky voice hoarse, cracking, and weak.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not goint to part from him if she could help it. Laying in the bed by his side, her arms wrapped around him and his held larger frame close, feeling the warmth of the skin. How she missed holding him and simply being around him even if for a few days. When he spoke, she listened to every word he had to say.`` Ye mean ye and yer sister had another argument of some kind?`` She asked bluntly before moving her right hand down to the sheets and pushing them from his chest lower and lower until those swollen muscles on his stomach were exposed. It was not for sexual reasons, but she had to feel about his stomach and past the muscles to see if there was anything hard within his body that should not be there. Aislin knew her husband's body better then anyone else including him sometimes. ``Ah can nay leave ye until ah know what be wrong my heart. Ah will wash myself quickly after ah look ye over. `` Finally the woman came back and handed the items to Aislin before she excused her to leave so they could be along one more. ``Ah need ye to sit up my heart.. for but a moment.`` She would help him, wanting to feel his back. When he was finally sitting up, she made him straighten his back and leaned over to press her ear to his flesh before asking him to press a cough out. If it started a reaction that would be better, so she could hear his heart beats. It was a strange method, but one her mother had taught her
Eamonn of Eohmark- Aislin was just as stubborn as he was, for instead of leaving and avoiding him as she should have, she was holding him close to her. Part of him loved th affection from her, he missed her body beside his, but the logistics knocked upon his head and begged him to send her away so she did not fall ill as well. Aislin asked bluntly, and as always, was right. Eamonn sighed softly, and turned his eyes to the ceiling. ``More or less.`` Eamonn stated simply. An argument that left both of them upset and hurt. Eamonn was at his wit's end with Bess. He did not know what to do with that girl. Aislin pushed the sheets and covers down to expose more of the linen sleeping tunic. She could not leave, and Eamonn did not have the strength or mentality to argue with her or anyone for that matter. The maid came back in with the items that Aislin asked for, items that Eamonn did not recall hearing, but at this point, he did not pay them much heed. Sit up? She wanted him to sit up? Eamonn groaned a bit at the thought of it, but did as she asked, with her help of course. Once he was sitting up, he leaned forward, forearms resting on his thighs as she pressed her ear to his back. Cough? That was something he was trying NOT to do. Shaking his head, Eamonn tried to give one cough for her, but a whole series came with it. His body became racked with them. His hand moved over his mouth to help stifle the coughs, and once more his lungs burned from the abuse, and when it ended, he inhaled deeply, and groaned.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin would not frown or say anything at that moment as she was worried about checking Eamonn's body first. It was not rare to hear that him and his sister had fought. They were different and yet the same and that was what made them have a hard time seeing eye to eye. She waited for her husband to cough and sure enough, he did more then just one as his body took over and began to throw them from it. She did not hear anything abnormal. Moving back, she eased him to lay back down again and moved some more pillows behind his head to elevate it. ``Ye heart and body do nay sound different. Perhaps, ye soul is sick nay yer body. Ye are stressed husband and ye have had some added recently. It is any wonder that ye have gone this far without loosing ye mind. Come..tell me of the argument ye had with yer sister.`` Aislin placed a hand to his chest, knowing it was hurting, but she had to wait, for anything she would try and give him he would throw back up. Reminding herself, she moved to stand and walked towards the cabinet of her things to retrieve a bottle of ointment that she could rub on his chest.`` This will help ease yer chest and coughs. It smells strong, but that be good.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn was all too glad to be laying back down on the pillows again. It was a feeling he loathed, but his body seemed to enjoy the rest and the laziness that it was getting. Feeling the soft pillows under his head, Eamonn sighed again, though this time it was a reaction from his body's verbal gratefulness. Finally, Aislin gave her diagnose, and it was one that he did not expect. In fact, he did not understand it. His soul sick? Such had never happened to him before...save for the argument that he and Aislin had months back, but that had been depression...he was not depressed again...he just missed his wife...stress. Stress? Eamonn had never gotten sick because of...stress. But, there had been so many things piling up recently, Eamonn did not know how to handle them all at once, yet he was expected to do something about it or handle it like a man: meaning suck up the pain that it might have caused. Eamonn frowned and closed his eyes. Where to begin? Eamonn was not very good with expressing feelings and things of the like, but there was only one person he would even make an ATTEMPT to converse with. Her hand was warm against his chest, even through the material of his tunic. Eamonn did not have to see her to know that she moved, the bed shifted and suddenly he felt the coldness once more that came with the lack of her presence. Something that would help his coughs? The blonde Horse Lord trusted Aislin with his life, for sure. If it would soothe the coughs, he would welcome any such ointment. With another sigh, he opened his eyes and did his best to explain the argument. ``Bess was in Sleat..she went there with the others and was hurt in the battle...she..she promised me that she would not go to another battle...but she did. So..I tried to tell her not to again...I...I was upset...and I made her sit down...she was weak, Aislin, from Sleat. Our argument was over that...and that she would do as she deemed right, told me never to contradict or disobey her in public again...I...I got frustrated. Bess thinks that I am...against her Duchessy. I have never been...Then the topic turned to the reasons we cannot get along...I am not clear upon...but she said that it hurt her heart when I walked away...so she did to be before I could, the argument was over, the children were apparently frightened by our tone...Edme is has....passed away, Aislin. Drowned...`` And his voice broke then at the painful bits and pieces that his foggy mind had of that bitter day
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not asking for emotion from Eamonn, only a story of what happened. She would wait as long as it took for him to tell her what was going on. When she returned, she placed the vile to the side and lifted Eamonn's sleeping tunic, pulling it up his frame to expose the shapely abs and then his well built chest while making sure the furs and such were still covering his groin and lower. She did not want someone to enter and see him nude. As he spoke, she began to rub the ointment on him, letting the mint smell take over the area and seep into his nose and mouth to help ease the soreness of his chest, throat and head. Ocean eyes were glued to the task at hand while her hearing was all his. When he was finished, Aislin paused and looked to him. Eyes were slightly widen by the last bit of news.`` Edme... drowned?`` it was hard to swallow and Aislin could feel the slight bit of uncomfortable heat climbing up her body before she did all she could to push it down. `` Husband, ah know ye nay be against Bess and her title. Ah can nay answer why she went after making such a promise to ye, only she can do such. As of late, ye both seem to be on the different side of the hill top, trying to yell out what ye want from each other. Husband, when was the last time ye and Bess simply sat down to speak and did not go to each other only because there was a issue at hand or a duty to be preformed?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- It was his wife that was perhaps the only person in this world that did not ask him for emotions. Many--far too many to take into proper account--requisitely expected emotions from him. Was it so hard to grasp a concept that Eamonn refused to let feelings and emotions leak out at every instant? Or an obsequious demeanor most befitting of a veteran of war? Apparently so. Eamonn grew tired of stressing to people that key concept. Dull eyes shifted to his wife once she returned to bedside, and with a bottle holding the ointment. The cool air greeted the heated flesh of abdomen and chest as the tunic was lifted, and silently he was thankful that his wife pulled furs up to cover that which made him man. It would be aweful for a maid to enter and bear witness to that which she was not privilaged to see. Eamonn did not want a diagnosis of his genitals to come up in conversation and gossip of the local women. It would never end. It did not take long for the scent of mint to take flight and flood his nostrils and senses. The smell, oddly enough, was soothing and lips parted to take in a breath of that scented air. The flesh upon his chest began to tingle, a sensation that meant her ointment and remedy was already set in motion. Edme was dead, the news still struck a chord of lamentation; the child would be miss greatly. The thought made an already turbulent stomach churn double time, and Eamonn closed his eyes and gritted his teeth at the pain and discomfort. The topic then returned to himself and Bess, a topic that was sore as a freshly made abrasion, causing great trepidation. Sighing, nostrils flared and took in another breath of minty air. ``...Not since it was made known that we were related. Bess expect emotion that does not...does not come easily to me...or to admit to. She asks for the improbable...am..am I truly so disagreeably belligerent?`` He asked, serious in every way. Thick brows furrowed and hazel eyes were locked upon the visage of his wife, waiting for an answer that he knew to be honest and veracious
Aislin of Eohmark- Soft finger tips moved along his chest, making sure to work the gel like substance into his skin, making the light dusting of darker tawny colored hair along his chest stick and then spring back upwards as they dried and cooled. The skin on her finger tips began to tingle, letting her know that his skin should be feeling the same about now. Both inhaled and then sighed out at the same time from the new scent in the air. It made Aislin relax and she could feel Eamonn doing the same. Laying along her side still above the covers while Eamonn's lower half was under them, she removed her hand from his chest and crossed her arm over his body to hold him tucked against her stomach, breast and the rest of her front. Ocean eyes moved down to meet hazel as he asked such a question and Aislin frowned, still trying to shovel every thing he had told her. `` Husband, know that any thing ah say will be my opinion only. It is all ah can offer ye as well as my support. Ah agree with ye when it comes to showing emotion that has always been hard to. Ye are simply nay a man built like that. Ah think there are only two things in this world that can make ye shed tears and come crashing to ye knees. One be our daughter and any misfortune that may come to her. Ah believe the other would be Finbar's end. Ye sister, nor ah, nor the kingdom will ever do such to ye full out husband. It is simply yer way and that will nay change. No, ah do nay think ye be so belligerent, but the fact does remain that we all have flaws in us, yers be ye temper and stoic when it comes to the eyes of others. Mine, be that ah am distant, detached from emotions. What ah believe ye sister wants be a compromise and perhaps for ye to go to her without it being a duty. There is a tender balance we all must learn Eamonn. We have to know when it be time to look upon each other only for our titles and then to look upon each other as family. Ye, have a harder time doing such. `` Aislin paused in her soft words to truly think on the next ones. `` If... Sorcha passed on and ye wanted comfort but ah was nay here, who would ye turn to for some words of ease? What would ye do husband?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- The movement of long, rather dainty, fingers only added to a notion of tranquility. The circular motion that they took to help the flesh absorb the ointment she had spread did well to calm the coughs that seemed to be taking his body by storm; though, how long such a comfort would last remained uncertain. Such a relief was not ignored nor disregarded. Beside him, his wife shifted to stretch out more comfortably, and her hand moved from his chest only to be replaced by a draping arm. Any bit of contact of body and flesh was relished and cherished after days apart from her, which to the Marshal seemed like years. It was far too long for his liking. Sure enough, the sagely wisdom of his wife fell upon keen ears, and Eamonn truly did listen and take heed. There were but a few people that he would converse with in secrecy, that singular person being Aislin, Aman-ud-Din if his wife could not be found or summoned. Inwardly, his heart skipped precious beats. She counted herself out much to hasily in his weaknesses, for along with his steed and his daughter, it was the woman who loved him unconditionally and willingly was the bearer of his progenies. He knew that he was found faulty in many things, but why admit them when they were already acknowledged? No one could change over night, and those that claimed such were spouting fallacies and fiction from their mouths. ``You forget the importance you have in my heart, Aislin...do not count yourself short or out of such importance to me.`` He reminded her with a cracked, dry voice before letting her continue. Once more, the vile ball of emotions was once again forming in his stomach and tying knots mercilessly as she continued...and then inquired a question that made his heart stop suddenly in its pulsing. Sorcha die? Eamonn did not even want to think of that thought, and tore a terrible wound in his mind, a thought so ghastly that he visibly frowned in a deep disapproval of the topic at hand. Lips were pressed together in a thin line once more, and weak muscles stiffened. Iconically Eamonn, he fought hard against the surging emotions. Little did his wife know that such a horrendous thought had already entered his mind times before her question, but each time it sliced deep. ``If such happened, there would be no words to ease me. My need to exist would be torn if both you and Sorcha left me...I...I wish to speak no more of it.`` He said tartly, and turned his head to the side, away from her and stared hard at the wall across the room opposite him.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not sure why she did not count herself, perhaps she did not want to be thought on as Eamonn's weakness, but his strength instead. She could not say really, it was just what she had said, or rather did not say. ``Ah did nay forget my heart, but ah do nay wish to be thought on as ye weakness, but yer strength. Still, that is a topic best save for another time.`` She had went on and then she listened to her husband's words. Aislin could feel her heart beat weaken just a bit and this is where her and Eamonn were the same. She would fall into silence for a long time and simply sit at the window and stare out into the world as her mother had perhaps. She felt his muscles stiffen against her arm as those words left his mouth. ``Husband..`` her hand rose to pull his face back towards her own.``Ah will nay go on about such topic, because it holds a pain unlike any of us have felt within it, but do ye feel and understand a bit more on what ye sister is going through. If Adam has nay returned home yet, who does Bess have to confide in? To comfort her? Bess wants a closeness to ye because ye both are nearly the last of ye blood. Ah do nay know why she reaches out to ye so save for that reason alone. Maybe she believed ye of all people would understand her? In truth, ye do nay need to understand her completely Eamonn, but to have a ground where ye both can meet when it is needed, would be best. She is the only blood ye know besides Sorcha. Have ye forgotten she has a temper and over the past year, she has been through many hardships as we have. She be confused, but yelling at her will nay help. It would be the same if ah yelled at ye for nay knowing something or because ye have gone to war. ``
Eamonn of Eohmark- To be nearer the mark, Aislin was both. Any sort of maliciousness acted upon her caused him great fear, and that fear was a weakness. However, her perseverance and wisdom that she had was his strength, a resilience that not even he had. He needed her, and without her, he felt as if his strength was waning. Perhaps, now, he understood Aislin's pain and heart when he went off to war. Still, such a topic he did not want to linger on because it caused his heart great grievance. Her hand touched cheek and jaw upon the other side of his face, and forced his face to turn toward her and his eyes meet hers. He understood a portion of the pain that his sister had, and for that, Eamonn found some sort of understanding for his sister. However, that had not been the only topic touched upon, which only confused Eamonn all the more. Who did Bess have to comfort her? Friends? Those that knew her long before he ever did? Eamonn would not hold from her a bond that siblings should have...but Eamonn never had such before, the adjustment would take time. How could he understand her? While they had a likeness in temper fuels and an feistiness that ran through their veins, the environment in which they had grown up in shaped who they were. A common ground...such a notion made sense, but what sort of grounds could they peacefully meet upon? Eamonn was poor with words and expressing emotions without offending the other party. ``I did not yell at her until she told me that it mattered not if I was upset by the fact that she went off to battle after a promise had been made. That is different, Aislin. My job...is war. Hers is much more than that. She cannot afford to march off when she so feels like it. If I cannot stress that, then who will? If she will not listen to her brother, then who will she? Whoever this person may be, they need to put some sense and caution in her mind....since I cannot. Common ground?...If such could ever work...but I doubt that it can.`` Eamonn took a deep breath, hazel eyes forced to look up at her until he shifted his gaze to the ceiling above them. For some reason, that gaze she had always made him feel...guilty. As if he had done wrong...as if he were a child fresh in trouble
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin understood the value of a broken promise and what it meant in Eamonn's eyes. Surely Bess had a good reason. They had all changed from the time they were in Inverness. Here, they had more responsibilities and challenges. Each had grown a bit apart but it was not done intentionally. It was done with everything they had been through. ``When ye are better, we shall seek yer sister to give what comfort we can. We will nay seek her to talk of business, nor will we seek her to scold her. We will only offer a ear or such. When that is done, together the three of us must speak and find a level ground. In my opinion, it feels as if she feels the need to do everything as she had done in Inverness and ye feel the need to protect her as a sibling, yet ye are having a hard time knowing when to separate. This is nay yer fault my heart. This is what we must do though. We must allow Bess to make her choices without scolding her on such. We may not always agree, but unless she ask our opinion, we should nay give such. When we all be alone, treat her as a sister. Ah hear ye husband and the confusion in ye mind. Ye greet her formally always, even when we are in private and ye keep trying to protect her be it because she is the duchess or yer sister. She has guards for such... let them do their job Eamonn. Yers be calvery and when yer opinion is asked, give it as ah do. If it is nay taken, let it go. Ye did yer duty and let it be that.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- An unkept promise was as harsh as a wound to the heart. It discredited the person and respect was lost, or at least a degree of it. His word was his bond, honor and integrity was founded upon such. A broken promise meant much to him, more perhaps than others. To him, the reason it had been broken was not a worthy excuse. She had a choice, she made it. What if she perished in Sleat when he warned her not to go? She went needlessly to a place she knew was a danger zone, and that he found lunacy. How could he be expected to let his sibling going off into danger and not make a move to pull her back from it? Eamonn did not understand, and that frustrated him. A frown set deeply upon his stiff features, and his eyes narrowed a bit. ``I will offer what comfort I can for the passing of Edme...but that is all that I can give at this time...there is no level ground. She cannot do everything she did in Inverness...she cannot afford such risks anymore. How can anyone expect me to sit idly by and watch her throw herself into harm's way and not do anything about it?...If I did my duty, which am I expected to perform? That of the Marshal of that of her brother? She asks for one but her actions evoke another. It does not make sense to me, and I will not be jerked about such. I...I told her NOT to go into Sleat...as both her brother and Marshal, only in regard to her safety... but she went anyway. Why? Because she knew the way and could not tell another the directions and send them in her stead. If opinion is what she wants, then she will get it from her Marshal and nothing more.`` He said bitterly, and soon after, he turned his head and a hand went to his mouth as another series of coughs shook his weakened body. When the fit of coughs ended, he winced and closed his eyes, hand lowering to rest upon his abdomen.
Aislin of Eohmark- ``Yer duty is nay to protect the Duchess. It is to command Calvary Eamonn. That be where yer lines get tangled. Ye wish to protect Bess as yer sister, but ye can not always do such. Ye are placing more weight on yer shoulder where it is nay meant to be. Ah can nay answer why she went Eamonn and did nay tell another. Ye....can nay protect everyone Eamonn. Ye must understand this. Let Adam worry on what his wife does and who will be there to protect her every day all day. That nay be yer direct duty and if ye spend all yer time arguing with yer sister on where ye believe she should and should nay go or should and should nay do, ye will never get any where.`` The bitterness in his tone was not missed. ``Very well. Do that Husband, or tell her' As yer marshal... this is what ah believe, but as yer brother, ah think this' and her let decide. We must...have faith in her choices Eamonn. We must.. leave the kingdom's well being in her hands and be there to simply place our own under her hands, should they begin to lower, but ye can nay take the duties from her or onto yer own shoulders. Do ye understand what ah mean?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Lids fluttered open part way at the words of his wife. She was right. He was taking on more than he should have, and in turn, it was only confusing him. Bess wanted to be close with him in whatever degree, but there was only so far he could tread without her objecting. His view differed from her greatly, and Eamonn had a feeling that they would never see eye to eye on that matter. He was her brother and her Marshal, not her husband and bodyguard. In that, Aislin, as always, was right. Eamonn had faith in some choices, but when it came to the objectivity of warfare, he had a disagreement. She asked his opinion of what to do about the hostility of the foreigners, but then discarded most of it. In fact, all of it. he sighed, and cleared his throat. ``Yes.`` He answered, simply, through grudgingly. His duty was to protect the interest of Skye, to keep the peace if the threat became larger than local policing. Eamonn needed to remember that, and Aislin reminded him.
Aislin of Eohmark- ``With that being said husband, do nay think that Bess does nay take our opinions and words into high reguard, she simply must do what she feels right and while the choice may not always be fully right, we must support her. She is new to this and had never had plans of becoming a Duchess. She is..learning as we all are.`` The palm of her hand moved to cup his face one more and let him feel the warm of her flesh as she smiled at him. ``No more talk of this husband, let us relax and try to find some sleep tonight. Ah be here now.. and will make ye better as ah always do. Ah will send for a bath for myself and ye, and call for our daughter if ye wish it.``Leaning down, she gently placed her lips to his to kiss him with such a tenderness that only he got from her before she pulled back and brushed a piece of tawny colored hair from his face.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn wanted to support Bess. He had practice in knowing while you might not always agree with your commander, you did as you were told. Eamonn made the mistake in thinking that in dealing with it here, it was not so. However, the same rules applied, ironically enough. Bess was new to this, as was he, but if she was not careful, her reign could be short. Eamonn could only hope that her actions would not jeopardize herself and make her a martyr for her people, as he had reminded her before that she was no use to Skye half alive and falling apart. She needed to remember herself, Eamonn could only hope she would heed that warning, nothing more. Aislin's hand cupped the side of his heated face, flesh still hot with a lingering fever. Sleep? That was hard for him, the coughs and vomitin kept him awake more than sleeping, but he would try. She was here, and he trusted her to make him well again. She always did. Eamonn had not expected the kiss, but took it all the same, though part of him objected, not wanting her to get sick as well. His lips pursed to meet hers, and when she withdrew enough to gaze down upon him, strands of gold were moved from his face, and a hand rose to place itself upon her side. ``I...I do not want to make you and Sorcha ill as well...`` He replied, softly, closing his eyes again and shifting a bit, his body aching midly, but stiff joints kept him from being as animated as he would have liked
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin had been gone for at least five days, making it nearly a weeks time that had passed since she last saw her husband. Moving along the sea from one island to the other had proven to be what the fates had in mind, because along the way many things had occurred. No matter what, she missed her husband and Sorcha, for she was so use to seeing them every day, it was very different not to. Thankfully she had Aman-un-Din by her side to keep some sort of familiar face close by though he seemed to be missing those here in Skye as well, or she assumed such with how he smiled as the boat pulled into the Dock.``We be home again my friend. It is nice to have some where to belong aye? `` After Aman-ud-Din answers with his words of wisdom, Aislin moved after Malick to leave the ship and headed towards her men who were awaiting. Echo threw her head back and forth and neighed to show her excitement as Aislin drew closer in her male attire. Ocean eyes shifted to each man and gave a soft smile. ``It is good to see ye all. Thank ye for coming to get us.`` When she did not see Eamonn, she looked to Cormack and rose a brow to silently ask where he was and why was he not here to greet her? The crew men made ready to unload the things on the ship so that they could go back with Aman-ud-Din to the main city. Moving to stroke Echo's forehead, she gave her friend a kiss and then moved around to mount her with care
Cormack of Eohmark- Once the ship came into view, Cormack gave a small smile. Well, Aislin could not have arrived home at an opportune time, but it was not of glad tidings she would come home to. Cormack wished a great many things, and at this moment, he wished that Eamonn could have been here to greet his wife. Instead, he was quarantined in his room and to a bed. Eamonn insisted, but his body refused and kept him there. When the ship finally docked and Aislin as well as her male escourts came down from the ship, Echo began to dance in place, eager to see her rider again. Cormack smiled softly and bowed his head in a silent respect for their Lady of Eohmark. The other horsemen mounted and sat at the waiting, while Cormack stepped closer and helped Aislin into the saddle, waiting until she was mounted before telling her the gloomy news. Swiftly mounting his own steed, he wheeled the horse around and pulled up beside Aislin. ``It is good to see you as well, Lady Aislin...unfortunately, your husband could not come to the docks, though he did try...I am afraid that illness has fallen over him...it has kept him in bed for nearly four days now, and does not seem to get better...but worse. I cannot be certain for I am no doctor...but Eamonn has been under great stress from duty and perhaps personal things that might have...collapsed upon him and brought on this illness...I have seen it many times before in other soldiers...but he is in need of your good care to make him better. Know that he did try to come, stubborn mule, but his body would not allow it.`` Cormack replied, before setting his horse into motion alongside Aislin's.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was glad to have Cormack's help. While she was not showing as much as others, she knew he babe rested within her body and did not wish to stress it out any more then it may have been with past events. A hand moved to her stomach as she sat upon Echo's mount and turned her head towards Cormack`` How long has he been ill Cormack? Is it that bad.`` the reins were placed within her hands as she listened and kept her ocean eyes on Cormack. ``Then let us nay delay any longer`` She waited for the other men to move and as soon as Cormack moved ahead, she went to follow, letting them take lead while a few others closed the circle around her as they went to Heahburg as fast as they could. Once there, Aislin had dismounted and handed her reins to a stable person before a hand reached out to stroke Echo's fur. Quickened steps took her to where her husband would be present, making ladies bow their heads and men move out of the way so she could get to him faster.
Cormack of Eohmark- Cormack knew that it was serious enough to require a more skilled physician, and if Aislin had not come back so soon, they would have had no choice but to send for another physician in Turas Lan to at least do something to keep the sickness at bay. There were no better hands than Aislin's. Perhaps even her presence would lend itself to helping Eamonn turn to the mend. With haste they moved back to Heahburg, the men protecting Aislin with Cormack to lead the way. Once they arrived, Cormack took her horse's reins as another helped the Lady down from the steed. She made haste to see her husband, and Cormack was glad. With her here, he knew that Eamonn would have the best care.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn resided still in their shared room, alone in the large bed with the covers pulled up to mid chest. His eyes had finally closed now, and despite the lightness of sleep, it did give him a moment of torturous peace. If listened to closely, the labor of his breathing could be heard, a sign that he was not so worse off as he could be. The nurses had done what they could, and it did some good. The nurses in the room stepped back, silently thankful Aislin was home again. One had a handful or clothes that had been use to soak in the cold water beside his bed and dab his brow to help draw a stubborn fever out.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was unsure as to what she would need, for she as not sure how bad her husband was. Could it be a illness not caught with a blade's tip or poisons to move it along? It was not so uncommon. There were few people that came to her with aches in their heads and other places within their body, that were random. Removing the cloak, pushed the door to their chambers opened and tossed it aside as she went straight for the bed where Eamonn was laying to rest. Ocean eyes glanced towards the nurse and she gave a curt nod of her head. ``Thank ye for attending to him. Has he been eating or nay?`` She waited silently for the nurse to answer and show the bucket that was filled halfway with his vomit. The room's windows had been opened, so it was harder to smell it when she had come inside.`` Bring some bread to me and ask a few of the men if they can bring in some buckets to fill the tub.`` her voice had softened strangely enough. Seeing Eamonn weak made Aislin weak in her soul. He was her lover, father to her children and her most trusted companion. Each time she feared she would loose him, made her heart ache. Without hesitation, she sat upon the side of the bed and removed her boots before turning over and climbing into bed at his side. He was left under the covers while she remained above them. She could hear his breathing as she removed the cloth from his head, blew on it to cool it down and then placed it back onto his forehead.`` My heart... ah am here. Will ye wake for me now?`` she asked the same question he had once to her. That calm look remained on her face even as she felt that irregular heart beat within her chest.
Nurse- The nurse glanced between Aislin and Eamonn, looking over the Horse lord once more before her eyes were forced to return to the grand physician. She swallowed a bit hard, and searched for an answer to best give her. The windows had been opened to allow that brisk breeze into the room to sweep out the sickly air that lingered. It did well to keep him from getting sick from the smells and fumes that illness tended to do. ``No, my Lady. We have tried to give him breads, soups, water even, but his stomach seems to reject anything that is put in..`` She answered, finally, before nodding and setting the cloths on the table beside the bed and bowl of cold water. Rushing off to fetch some bread left Aislin and Eamonn alone.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Hearing her voice made his heart skip a precious beat, and slowly his eyes opened part-way, lids heavy. The blonde horseman swallowed hard. Was he dreaming? Was Aislin truly here? Brows furrowed a bit in near disbelief. ``A..aislin?`` He whispered hoarsely, clearing his throat to stifle rising coughs. ``Am...am I dre--aming?`` He inquired, before he felt the tickle in his throat. Oh no. Not again. The coughs came, and sitting up as fast as his body would allow him, he coughed, leaning over the side of the bed with his back to her as his body shook with coughs, gags, and towards the end, dry heaves. Only when it finally ended did he fall back down onto the bed again and turn his dull eyes to his wife. Clearing his throat once more, the barest of smiled curled the ends of his lips upward. ``I...am glad you a-are home.`` He admitted in a tone so low and broken it was scarely heard. This was not a dream, Aislin was finally back home, and Eamonn was so glad to have her back. He missed and longed for her presence terribly.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin smiled softly as she looked to her husband's stressed face and eased her soft hand along the sweat and dirt laced hairs that were found upon his face. She could see his brows furrow and hear his cracked voice as he spoke. ``Aye Husband... ah be here. I have returned home to ye as ah promised ah would.`` She moved back a bit as she saw his chest do a odd heave and then the coughing came after he asked if he was dreaming. Aislin followed him up, moving to place her hands on his back as he leaned over the bed. She could feel how warm his skin was to the touch, but that could be from the warmth outside and him laying in bed. Instead of patting his back, she rubbed it to help ease out those coughs and gags. A soft kiss was placed to his back before her forehead leaned against it to feel his body racked with shakes and jerks until finally it stopped for a bit. She moved back with him until he was settled and looking to her with dull eyes once more. `` As am ah husband. It is nay a dream. `` She leaned over to kiss his cheek gently, not sure what he had yet but wanting to feel his flesh to her own. As she pulled back, ocean eyes peered down to his face while she hovered over him.`` Tell me husband, how do ye feel? When did this start and how? Ah know ye be tired, but ah need to know so ah can make ye better.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn hated being ill. It made him feel utterly weak. In a sense, he was. His body was sore, a numbness that he had never felt before, a grogginess that no soldier dare give in to, a fatigue that was not fathomable to the Horse Lord. The cough that racked his tall frame became more and more painful, his lungs were burning from the numerous coughs that left them raw, and his throat ached from regurgitation far too many times. His head was spinning with fever unconquered. Her lips placed a kiss upon his clothed back as muscles rippled and tensed with his actions. Finally, he was laying on the bed, peering up at his wife lazily. The baby. She should not be near him if he was contagious, that would risk the health of a child and Eamonn did not want to lose her or their second child if it could be help. Another small cough made the Adam's apple of his neck bob, though lips would not let it out for they were pressed together tightly in defiance. Cheeks puffed out somewhat before sinking back in. His eyes closed, and heated flesh loved the bit of attention that she gave, a touch from her that he missed, even though it had only been five days passed. When she pulled back and asked him what ailed him, his eyes opened partly and he took a light breath of air. ``It...started perhaps four days ago...when I left from Turas Lan. I...I did not feel well after a... a...'discussion' with the Duchess...I feel..tired...cannot seem to stop cough...cannot keep anything down for long..my head aches and chest burns from coughing so much....I...I have never...been this ill before, Aislin...you and our child should not be near me...I do not want to get anyone else to fall ill..`` He replied, his husky voice hoarse, cracking, and weak.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not goint to part from him if she could help it. Laying in the bed by his side, her arms wrapped around him and his held larger frame close, feeling the warmth of the skin. How she missed holding him and simply being around him even if for a few days. When he spoke, she listened to every word he had to say.`` Ye mean ye and yer sister had another argument of some kind?`` She asked bluntly before moving her right hand down to the sheets and pushing them from his chest lower and lower until those swollen muscles on his stomach were exposed. It was not for sexual reasons, but she had to feel about his stomach and past the muscles to see if there was anything hard within his body that should not be there. Aislin knew her husband's body better then anyone else including him sometimes. ``Ah can nay leave ye until ah know what be wrong my heart. Ah will wash myself quickly after ah look ye over. `` Finally the woman came back and handed the items to Aislin before she excused her to leave so they could be along one more. ``Ah need ye to sit up my heart.. for but a moment.`` She would help him, wanting to feel his back. When he was finally sitting up, she made him straighten his back and leaned over to press her ear to his flesh before asking him to press a cough out. If it started a reaction that would be better, so she could hear his heart beats. It was a strange method, but one her mother had taught her
Eamonn of Eohmark- Aislin was just as stubborn as he was, for instead of leaving and avoiding him as she should have, she was holding him close to her. Part of him loved th affection from her, he missed her body beside his, but the logistics knocked upon his head and begged him to send her away so she did not fall ill as well. Aislin asked bluntly, and as always, was right. Eamonn sighed softly, and turned his eyes to the ceiling. ``More or less.`` Eamonn stated simply. An argument that left both of them upset and hurt. Eamonn was at his wit's end with Bess. He did not know what to do with that girl. Aislin pushed the sheets and covers down to expose more of the linen sleeping tunic. She could not leave, and Eamonn did not have the strength or mentality to argue with her or anyone for that matter. The maid came back in with the items that Aislin asked for, items that Eamonn did not recall hearing, but at this point, he did not pay them much heed. Sit up? She wanted him to sit up? Eamonn groaned a bit at the thought of it, but did as she asked, with her help of course. Once he was sitting up, he leaned forward, forearms resting on his thighs as she pressed her ear to his back. Cough? That was something he was trying NOT to do. Shaking his head, Eamonn tried to give one cough for her, but a whole series came with it. His body became racked with them. His hand moved over his mouth to help stifle the coughs, and once more his lungs burned from the abuse, and when it ended, he inhaled deeply, and groaned.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin would not frown or say anything at that moment as she was worried about checking Eamonn's body first. It was not rare to hear that him and his sister had fought. They were different and yet the same and that was what made them have a hard time seeing eye to eye. She waited for her husband to cough and sure enough, he did more then just one as his body took over and began to throw them from it. She did not hear anything abnormal. Moving back, she eased him to lay back down again and moved some more pillows behind his head to elevate it. ``Ye heart and body do nay sound different. Perhaps, ye soul is sick nay yer body. Ye are stressed husband and ye have had some added recently. It is any wonder that ye have gone this far without loosing ye mind. Come..tell me of the argument ye had with yer sister.`` Aislin placed a hand to his chest, knowing it was hurting, but she had to wait, for anything she would try and give him he would throw back up. Reminding herself, she moved to stand and walked towards the cabinet of her things to retrieve a bottle of ointment that she could rub on his chest.`` This will help ease yer chest and coughs. It smells strong, but that be good.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn was all too glad to be laying back down on the pillows again. It was a feeling he loathed, but his body seemed to enjoy the rest and the laziness that it was getting. Feeling the soft pillows under his head, Eamonn sighed again, though this time it was a reaction from his body's verbal gratefulness. Finally, Aislin gave her diagnose, and it was one that he did not expect. In fact, he did not understand it. His soul sick? Such had never happened to him before...save for the argument that he and Aislin had months back, but that had been depression...he was not depressed again...he just missed his wife...stress. Stress? Eamonn had never gotten sick because of...stress. But, there had been so many things piling up recently, Eamonn did not know how to handle them all at once, yet he was expected to do something about it or handle it like a man: meaning suck up the pain that it might have caused. Eamonn frowned and closed his eyes. Where to begin? Eamonn was not very good with expressing feelings and things of the like, but there was only one person he would even make an ATTEMPT to converse with. Her hand was warm against his chest, even through the material of his tunic. Eamonn did not have to see her to know that she moved, the bed shifted and suddenly he felt the coldness once more that came with the lack of her presence. Something that would help his coughs? The blonde Horse Lord trusted Aislin with his life, for sure. If it would soothe the coughs, he would welcome any such ointment. With another sigh, he opened his eyes and did his best to explain the argument. ``Bess was in Sleat..she went there with the others and was hurt in the battle...she..she promised me that she would not go to another battle...but she did. So..I tried to tell her not to again...I...I was upset...and I made her sit down...she was weak, Aislin, from Sleat. Our argument was over that...and that she would do as she deemed right, told me never to contradict or disobey her in public again...I...I got frustrated. Bess thinks that I am...against her Duchessy. I have never been...Then the topic turned to the reasons we cannot get along...I am not clear upon...but she said that it hurt her heart when I walked away...so she did to be before I could, the argument was over, the children were apparently frightened by our tone...Edme is has....passed away, Aislin. Drowned...`` And his voice broke then at the painful bits and pieces that his foggy mind had of that bitter day
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not asking for emotion from Eamonn, only a story of what happened. She would wait as long as it took for him to tell her what was going on. When she returned, she placed the vile to the side and lifted Eamonn's sleeping tunic, pulling it up his frame to expose the shapely abs and then his well built chest while making sure the furs and such were still covering his groin and lower. She did not want someone to enter and see him nude. As he spoke, she began to rub the ointment on him, letting the mint smell take over the area and seep into his nose and mouth to help ease the soreness of his chest, throat and head. Ocean eyes were glued to the task at hand while her hearing was all his. When he was finished, Aislin paused and looked to him. Eyes were slightly widen by the last bit of news.`` Edme... drowned?`` it was hard to swallow and Aislin could feel the slight bit of uncomfortable heat climbing up her body before she did all she could to push it down. `` Husband, ah know ye nay be against Bess and her title. Ah can nay answer why she went after making such a promise to ye, only she can do such. As of late, ye both seem to be on the different side of the hill top, trying to yell out what ye want from each other. Husband, when was the last time ye and Bess simply sat down to speak and did not go to each other only because there was a issue at hand or a duty to be preformed?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- It was his wife that was perhaps the only person in this world that did not ask him for emotions. Many--far too many to take into proper account--requisitely expected emotions from him. Was it so hard to grasp a concept that Eamonn refused to let feelings and emotions leak out at every instant? Or an obsequious demeanor most befitting of a veteran of war? Apparently so. Eamonn grew tired of stressing to people that key concept. Dull eyes shifted to his wife once she returned to bedside, and with a bottle holding the ointment. The cool air greeted the heated flesh of abdomen and chest as the tunic was lifted, and silently he was thankful that his wife pulled furs up to cover that which made him man. It would be aweful for a maid to enter and bear witness to that which she was not privilaged to see. Eamonn did not want a diagnosis of his genitals to come up in conversation and gossip of the local women. It would never end. It did not take long for the scent of mint to take flight and flood his nostrils and senses. The smell, oddly enough, was soothing and lips parted to take in a breath of that scented air. The flesh upon his chest began to tingle, a sensation that meant her ointment and remedy was already set in motion. Edme was dead, the news still struck a chord of lamentation; the child would be miss greatly. The thought made an already turbulent stomach churn double time, and Eamonn closed his eyes and gritted his teeth at the pain and discomfort. The topic then returned to himself and Bess, a topic that was sore as a freshly made abrasion, causing great trepidation. Sighing, nostrils flared and took in another breath of minty air. ``...Not since it was made known that we were related. Bess expect emotion that does not...does not come easily to me...or to admit to. She asks for the improbable...am..am I truly so disagreeably belligerent?`` He asked, serious in every way. Thick brows furrowed and hazel eyes were locked upon the visage of his wife, waiting for an answer that he knew to be honest and veracious
Aislin of Eohmark- Soft finger tips moved along his chest, making sure to work the gel like substance into his skin, making the light dusting of darker tawny colored hair along his chest stick and then spring back upwards as they dried and cooled. The skin on her finger tips began to tingle, letting her know that his skin should be feeling the same about now. Both inhaled and then sighed out at the same time from the new scent in the air. It made Aislin relax and she could feel Eamonn doing the same. Laying along her side still above the covers while Eamonn's lower half was under them, she removed her hand from his chest and crossed her arm over his body to hold him tucked against her stomach, breast and the rest of her front. Ocean eyes moved down to meet hazel as he asked such a question and Aislin frowned, still trying to shovel every thing he had told her. `` Husband, know that any thing ah say will be my opinion only. It is all ah can offer ye as well as my support. Ah agree with ye when it comes to showing emotion that has always been hard to. Ye are simply nay a man built like that. Ah think there are only two things in this world that can make ye shed tears and come crashing to ye knees. One be our daughter and any misfortune that may come to her. Ah believe the other would be Finbar's end. Ye sister, nor ah, nor the kingdom will ever do such to ye full out husband. It is simply yer way and that will nay change. No, ah do nay think ye be so belligerent, but the fact does remain that we all have flaws in us, yers be ye temper and stoic when it comes to the eyes of others. Mine, be that ah am distant, detached from emotions. What ah believe ye sister wants be a compromise and perhaps for ye to go to her without it being a duty. There is a tender balance we all must learn Eamonn. We have to know when it be time to look upon each other only for our titles and then to look upon each other as family. Ye, have a harder time doing such. `` Aislin paused in her soft words to truly think on the next ones. `` If... Sorcha passed on and ye wanted comfort but ah was nay here, who would ye turn to for some words of ease? What would ye do husband?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- The movement of long, rather dainty, fingers only added to a notion of tranquility. The circular motion that they took to help the flesh absorb the ointment she had spread did well to calm the coughs that seemed to be taking his body by storm; though, how long such a comfort would last remained uncertain. Such a relief was not ignored nor disregarded. Beside him, his wife shifted to stretch out more comfortably, and her hand moved from his chest only to be replaced by a draping arm. Any bit of contact of body and flesh was relished and cherished after days apart from her, which to the Marshal seemed like years. It was far too long for his liking. Sure enough, the sagely wisdom of his wife fell upon keen ears, and Eamonn truly did listen and take heed. There were but a few people that he would converse with in secrecy, that singular person being Aislin, Aman-ud-Din if his wife could not be found or summoned. Inwardly, his heart skipped precious beats. She counted herself out much to hasily in his weaknesses, for along with his steed and his daughter, it was the woman who loved him unconditionally and willingly was the bearer of his progenies. He knew that he was found faulty in many things, but why admit them when they were already acknowledged? No one could change over night, and those that claimed such were spouting fallacies and fiction from their mouths. ``You forget the importance you have in my heart, Aislin...do not count yourself short or out of such importance to me.`` He reminded her with a cracked, dry voice before letting her continue. Once more, the vile ball of emotions was once again forming in his stomach and tying knots mercilessly as she continued...and then inquired a question that made his heart stop suddenly in its pulsing. Sorcha die? Eamonn did not even want to think of that thought, and tore a terrible wound in his mind, a thought so ghastly that he visibly frowned in a deep disapproval of the topic at hand. Lips were pressed together in a thin line once more, and weak muscles stiffened. Iconically Eamonn, he fought hard against the surging emotions. Little did his wife know that such a horrendous thought had already entered his mind times before her question, but each time it sliced deep. ``If such happened, there would be no words to ease me. My need to exist would be torn if both you and Sorcha left me...I...I wish to speak no more of it.`` He said tartly, and turned his head to the side, away from her and stared hard at the wall across the room opposite him.
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin was not sure why she did not count herself, perhaps she did not want to be thought on as Eamonn's weakness, but his strength instead. She could not say really, it was just what she had said, or rather did not say. ``Ah did nay forget my heart, but ah do nay wish to be thought on as ye weakness, but yer strength. Still, that is a topic best save for another time.`` She had went on and then she listened to her husband's words. Aislin could feel her heart beat weaken just a bit and this is where her and Eamonn were the same. She would fall into silence for a long time and simply sit at the window and stare out into the world as her mother had perhaps. She felt his muscles stiffen against her arm as those words left his mouth. ``Husband..`` her hand rose to pull his face back towards her own.``Ah will nay go on about such topic, because it holds a pain unlike any of us have felt within it, but do ye feel and understand a bit more on what ye sister is going through. If Adam has nay returned home yet, who does Bess have to confide in? To comfort her? Bess wants a closeness to ye because ye both are nearly the last of ye blood. Ah do nay know why she reaches out to ye so save for that reason alone. Maybe she believed ye of all people would understand her? In truth, ye do nay need to understand her completely Eamonn, but to have a ground where ye both can meet when it is needed, would be best. She is the only blood ye know besides Sorcha. Have ye forgotten she has a temper and over the past year, she has been through many hardships as we have. She be confused, but yelling at her will nay help. It would be the same if ah yelled at ye for nay knowing something or because ye have gone to war. ``
Eamonn of Eohmark- To be nearer the mark, Aislin was both. Any sort of maliciousness acted upon her caused him great fear, and that fear was a weakness. However, her perseverance and wisdom that she had was his strength, a resilience that not even he had. He needed her, and without her, he felt as if his strength was waning. Perhaps, now, he understood Aislin's pain and heart when he went off to war. Still, such a topic he did not want to linger on because it caused his heart great grievance. Her hand touched cheek and jaw upon the other side of his face, and forced his face to turn toward her and his eyes meet hers. He understood a portion of the pain that his sister had, and for that, Eamonn found some sort of understanding for his sister. However, that had not been the only topic touched upon, which only confused Eamonn all the more. Who did Bess have to comfort her? Friends? Those that knew her long before he ever did? Eamonn would not hold from her a bond that siblings should have...but Eamonn never had such before, the adjustment would take time. How could he understand her? While they had a likeness in temper fuels and an feistiness that ran through their veins, the environment in which they had grown up in shaped who they were. A common ground...such a notion made sense, but what sort of grounds could they peacefully meet upon? Eamonn was poor with words and expressing emotions without offending the other party. ``I did not yell at her until she told me that it mattered not if I was upset by the fact that she went off to battle after a promise had been made. That is different, Aislin. My job...is war. Hers is much more than that. She cannot afford to march off when she so feels like it. If I cannot stress that, then who will? If she will not listen to her brother, then who will she? Whoever this person may be, they need to put some sense and caution in her mind....since I cannot. Common ground?...If such could ever work...but I doubt that it can.`` Eamonn took a deep breath, hazel eyes forced to look up at her until he shifted his gaze to the ceiling above them. For some reason, that gaze she had always made him feel...guilty. As if he had done wrong...as if he were a child fresh in trouble
Aislin of Eohmark- Aislin understood the value of a broken promise and what it meant in Eamonn's eyes. Surely Bess had a good reason. They had all changed from the time they were in Inverness. Here, they had more responsibilities and challenges. Each had grown a bit apart but it was not done intentionally. It was done with everything they had been through. ``When ye are better, we shall seek yer sister to give what comfort we can. We will nay seek her to talk of business, nor will we seek her to scold her. We will only offer a ear or such. When that is done, together the three of us must speak and find a level ground. In my opinion, it feels as if she feels the need to do everything as she had done in Inverness and ye feel the need to protect her as a sibling, yet ye are having a hard time knowing when to separate. This is nay yer fault my heart. This is what we must do though. We must allow Bess to make her choices without scolding her on such. We may not always agree, but unless she ask our opinion, we should nay give such. When we all be alone, treat her as a sister. Ah hear ye husband and the confusion in ye mind. Ye greet her formally always, even when we are in private and ye keep trying to protect her be it because she is the duchess or yer sister. She has guards for such... let them do their job Eamonn. Yers be calvery and when yer opinion is asked, give it as ah do. If it is nay taken, let it go. Ye did yer duty and let it be that.``
Eamonn of Eohmark- An unkept promise was as harsh as a wound to the heart. It discredited the person and respect was lost, or at least a degree of it. His word was his bond, honor and integrity was founded upon such. A broken promise meant much to him, more perhaps than others. To him, the reason it had been broken was not a worthy excuse. She had a choice, she made it. What if she perished in Sleat when he warned her not to go? She went needlessly to a place she knew was a danger zone, and that he found lunacy. How could he be expected to let his sibling going off into danger and not make a move to pull her back from it? Eamonn did not understand, and that frustrated him. A frown set deeply upon his stiff features, and his eyes narrowed a bit. ``I will offer what comfort I can for the passing of Edme...but that is all that I can give at this time...there is no level ground. She cannot do everything she did in Inverness...she cannot afford such risks anymore. How can anyone expect me to sit idly by and watch her throw herself into harm's way and not do anything about it?...If I did my duty, which am I expected to perform? That of the Marshal of that of her brother? She asks for one but her actions evoke another. It does not make sense to me, and I will not be jerked about such. I...I told her NOT to go into Sleat...as both her brother and Marshal, only in regard to her safety... but she went anyway. Why? Because she knew the way and could not tell another the directions and send them in her stead. If opinion is what she wants, then she will get it from her Marshal and nothing more.`` He said bitterly, and soon after, he turned his head and a hand went to his mouth as another series of coughs shook his weakened body. When the fit of coughs ended, he winced and closed his eyes, hand lowering to rest upon his abdomen.
Aislin of Eohmark- ``Yer duty is nay to protect the Duchess. It is to command Calvary Eamonn. That be where yer lines get tangled. Ye wish to protect Bess as yer sister, but ye can not always do such. Ye are placing more weight on yer shoulder where it is nay meant to be. Ah can nay answer why she went Eamonn and did nay tell another. Ye....can nay protect everyone Eamonn. Ye must understand this. Let Adam worry on what his wife does and who will be there to protect her every day all day. That nay be yer direct duty and if ye spend all yer time arguing with yer sister on where ye believe she should and should nay go or should and should nay do, ye will never get any where.`` The bitterness in his tone was not missed. ``Very well. Do that Husband, or tell her' As yer marshal... this is what ah believe, but as yer brother, ah think this' and her let decide. We must...have faith in her choices Eamonn. We must.. leave the kingdom's well being in her hands and be there to simply place our own under her hands, should they begin to lower, but ye can nay take the duties from her or onto yer own shoulders. Do ye understand what ah mean?``
Eamonn of Eohmark- Lids fluttered open part way at the words of his wife. She was right. He was taking on more than he should have, and in turn, it was only confusing him. Bess wanted to be close with him in whatever degree, but there was only so far he could tread without her objecting. His view differed from her greatly, and Eamonn had a feeling that they would never see eye to eye on that matter. He was her brother and her Marshal, not her husband and bodyguard. In that, Aislin, as always, was right. Eamonn had faith in some choices, but when it came to the objectivity of warfare, he had a disagreement. She asked his opinion of what to do about the hostility of the foreigners, but then discarded most of it. In fact, all of it. he sighed, and cleared his throat. ``Yes.`` He answered, simply, through grudgingly. His duty was to protect the interest of Skye, to keep the peace if the threat became larger than local policing. Eamonn needed to remember that, and Aislin reminded him.
Aislin of Eohmark- ``With that being said husband, do nay think that Bess does nay take our opinions and words into high reguard, she simply must do what she feels right and while the choice may not always be fully right, we must support her. She is new to this and had never had plans of becoming a Duchess. She is..learning as we all are.`` The palm of her hand moved to cup his face one more and let him feel the warm of her flesh as she smiled at him. ``No more talk of this husband, let us relax and try to find some sleep tonight. Ah be here now.. and will make ye better as ah always do. Ah will send for a bath for myself and ye, and call for our daughter if ye wish it.``Leaning down, she gently placed her lips to his to kiss him with such a tenderness that only he got from her before she pulled back and brushed a piece of tawny colored hair from his face.
Eamonn of Eohmark- Eamonn wanted to support Bess. He had practice in knowing while you might not always agree with your commander, you did as you were told. Eamonn made the mistake in thinking that in dealing with it here, it was not so. However, the same rules applied, ironically enough. Bess was new to this, as was he, but if she was not careful, her reign could be short. Eamonn could only hope that her actions would not jeopardize herself and make her a martyr for her people, as he had reminded her before that she was no use to Skye half alive and falling apart. She needed to remember herself, Eamonn could only hope she would heed that warning, nothing more. Aislin's hand cupped the side of his heated face, flesh still hot with a lingering fever. Sleep? That was hard for him, the coughs and vomitin kept him awake more than sleeping, but he would try. She was here, and he trusted her to make him well again. She always did. Eamonn had not expected the kiss, but took it all the same, though part of him objected, not wanting her to get sick as well. His lips pursed to meet hers, and when she withdrew enough to gaze down upon him, strands of gold were moved from his face, and a hand rose to place itself upon her side. ``I...I do not want to make you and Sorcha ill as well...`` He replied, softly, closing his eyes again and shifting a bit, his body aching midly, but stiff joints kept him from being as animated as he would have liked
~~~End Thread~~~
