Post by Lady Liliana Campbell on Feb 14, 2010 23:51:58 GMT -6
Katerina: After having spoken to Duncan about the fact that she was traveling to Drynoch to see her heart father Lord Kendrew... Liam and Corban already had the horses ready. With a last goodbye to Duncan and Ella she descended the stairs that led to the bailey it would take the better part of the day and they should arrive by nightfall. It would be nice to see Kendrew and fill him on all the changes that she had made and those still in the works. She mounted a large grey stallion she named Sylwyn...it meant storm. Corban and Liam flanked her as they rode out the barmkin towards Kendrew's home.
Kendrew: "Today is a better day" In dark chambers he breathed words into the ear of sleeping wife before he rose. A farmer's custom, the warrior had never given it up. Dona had known that like his father, he required a bowl of water to wash his hands and face before dressing with the cold darkness before the sunrise. Like his father before him, he would walk the halls built by his own hand before standing on the steps that led inside. By the time the sun was in the Skye he would have completed three things more than most men begin to contemplate doing. Sweet pipe weed would cling to him as he signed documents, or rode into the town to survey homes. He would take taxes, only to return them in a beneficial turn to the preservation of the town where sheep ranchers expanded to farmers, leather workers. Today was a better day. Prayer uttered to God granted him the strength to be still while it would begin to fortify the weight in his hand. Still, with the news that Katerina was coming to see them he would smile. No matter what violence was waiting to be wrought, his love for those near him never died.
Liliana: Better days. Was that not what all sought? Aye, this began them. As husband washed wife did not lay sleeping. Lids lifted leisurely to observe his morning ritual as he prepared to go about days business. Smile curved lips to whisper words of love as he left before finally Liliana roused to prepare herself. Sleeping all day was not a liking of hers. Even pregnant she rarely slept in or took naps. Household required attention that could not be given while one laid about bed. Simple skirts and blouse was tossed on, ebon hair secured in tight braid, while halls were swept, rushes cleaned or fresh ones woven, and meals discussed. Women of the household- those in service and family alike- could be heard laughing in kitchen. Talking of events that had transpired with a sparkle in eyes and merriment in voice. Children were roused from sleep, washed and dressed, and sent about chores and education. Even little Glenna had a duty to attend as tiny hands kneaded at a smaller bit of dough while Mother tended to larger. "Aye, Glenna, that is it. Your Da will love the loaf and we will have it with dinner." A guard brought news of expected guest that sent about rousing orders of preparation of a room incase Katerina should wish to spend the evening.
Katerina: Katerina had done many things since she rose before dawn and prepared for this trip. Liam was a new attatchment to her personal guards... he had worked for Patrick... but then saw the truth as Kendrew pointed them out... he had saved her life and in return pledge himself to her protection as had Corban... though Corban had been appointed by Kendrew for the task.. he had chosen to stay on with her. She smiled as the two men chatted her mind centered on visiting with Kendrew and his wife whom she had yet to meet. Katerina had grown up much in these past several months and was more than pleased with how the clan had accepted her as their Lairdess. In her saddle packs were gifts for the Lord and Lady Campbell. The sun was well over head and the journey not near to being over when Corban called a halt so they could eat and rest the horses.
Kendrew: "Let it be an open supper. Tell you tha' the Lady of MacKinnon is coming. We shall welcome her, and enjoy the Sabbath heartily." The spirit of Lent disintegrated in the holy time before the birth of Christ. God would forgive the absence of fealty to the idea for he had so long lived in Lent beyond forty days. It was near to forty years before he found his rebirth. There was time before the lauded guest would show, so he too would make his hands covered in sawdust repairing fence posts, chapped with cold in lifting stone. He discussed new plots of land that he wanted tilled for spring planting as the season came early to the island. The hold-fast was inspected to be found flawless, and his stable holding of fine dapple grays. While no castle, Cuin Siar was no less than an estate home fit for a Chieftain and his wife. Fallow fields were quiet beneath a thin layer of drying rain. Life was good despite those who sought to unravel it.
Liliana: Measurements for evening meal was doubled as the women adjusted for arriving guests. Generally meal was attended by family and others. Liliana found it beneficial to invite those of the clan to dine with them upon occasion. Evening would find a single man and a family dining with the Lord and Lady. Tonight though preparation was made for the visit of Katerina MacKinnon and entourage. Linens were beat clean in the outside air before being lightly sprinkled with scented water that would remind one of the smell of forest and roses. "Aye, that one for the Lady MacKinnon. I think it will suit her. It needs flowers Dona..." Brown eyes pondered this matter before turning to look in direction of little Glenna,"Would you like to go gather some of the pretty snowdrops with Kylie?" The little girls dark head nodded eagerly and Liliana sought the eldest daughter to give orders- snowdrops and rhododendron were to be gathered to be placed in the guests rooms. Liliana moved to watch from the porch as both ran out into chill day, brown eyes searching for husband, while she mused,"What else do we need prepare, Dona?"
Katerina: Though the sun was out it was still cold out and Katerina was wearing a fur lined cloak, a deep blue dress of wool... practical for riding. They had stopped by a small loch to rest the horses and eat. Liam had spread a large tartan for them to sit on as they ate. "It will be good to see Lord Kendrew again..." she said to noone in particular and both men smiled for had been excited for a week now. They knew she loved the man like a father and both Knights were friends with him as well. Before Kendrew had left Katerina asked him to be a witness of her first duty as Lairdess and that was to Knight Liam... who since had taken the name MacKinnon. Kat smiled at them as they finished eating and packed things up to once more be on their way. In a few hours the sun would be setting and though bandits were not as common as they had once been she would feel better once on Campbell lands and under Kendrew's roof . Corban and Liam felt the same and hence why they were now pushing their steeds racing the sun.
Dona: "We be fine, Liliana. Get in the house, girl. Rest. My grandson needs some respite for his mother taxes him so. Let Lara see to the laying out of the dishes. Rest, make yourself pretty thereafter. Not that ye'd have to try hard." Dona scoffed at that thought. Liliana needn't 'try' at anything. Strong wrists snapped a linen with none on the end to catch it. She drew it back in, folding it deftly across the arm. An empty one claimed her daughter in law to follow through the great doors. "Good lesson to afford you. Heed me: Enjoy what you have wrought. Greater defeat comes when that is nay longer possible. That, would be what haunted my husband his days. God rest his soul."
Kendrew: Kendrew watched at a distance the talk of women, watched his daughters gather creation into tiny hands."What of the party, how close are they?" He called out to the mounted men. "Go, look. Bring them over if ye find them on the road while I go to make ready!" Sweat shone against his brow, along he thick arms exposed despite the winter season.
Liliana: Soft laughter, holding life and energy in its depths, carried upon wind. "A woman could not ask for a better mother by marriage than you Dona Campbell." Lips met the woman's cheek with soft touch briefly before glancing out over the land a moment. "I go to make ready then. Just see that the children are washed again and that Kendrew does so as well. I will not have my husband greeting the MacKinnon Lairdess as if he were rolling around in the muck." Liliana checked one more time for any sign of things that might need adjusting as steps carried her inside. Then finally made for the stairs that led to chambers. Clothing was chose carefully, a gown of clan colors that was warm and flattering, after having washed any trace of cleaning and cooking from body. Nothing hid the proof of second child to come in May now, Dona's grandson making a fuss inside, and Liliana whispered,"You are going to be as much a handful as your Father. Be calm, little one." Hands were placed on either side of stomach to soothe the kicking to no avail and Liliana sighed while brushing out ebon strands to a bright sheen, and left them fall down back. Meanwhile ears listened closely for any sound of approaching horse.
Katerina: Dusk quickly was upon them as they raced towards Kendrew's home when three men rode out to meet them not to far away. "Lord Kendrew sent us to meet up with you ad escort you onward." Katerina smiled for it seemed her heart father would not have her just ride up. "Thank you... we would welcome the company." they had since slowed their pace now the six rode towards the keep... and the closer they got the bigger her smile grew. Kat could not wait to see Kendrew and be off this damn horse.
Kendrew: Kendrew was not a handful, but a woman did try to reign in her husband to be respectable whilst at home. Men are honed for war, for things of intensity are they not? The truth of it was that she was often the one thing that quelled him from tossing a great many out of his house on their ear. None wished to rile the ire of the Lord at Cuin Suiar, especially after the latest round of gossip caught wild fire in the territory of a plot that was dismantled where any tried to come between the man and his wife.
Riding up to the party, the men of Campbell shook hands with Mackinnon brethren. "Onward them. Food, warmth wait ye. Pints of ale if the men have a mind, none picks a finer barrel than the Laird nay?" They jested. The Laird of mention would soon be made ready to surpass a woman's approval.
Dona herself had awaited outside the chamber door with a mother's proud smile upon her face. "Would that your father see you wear such colors.." she bemused.
Offering her a place infront, he would come upon Lara after her own transformation. Such a proud, resolute beauty! "Wife, do we please?" Lara laughed, moving with Dona to stand ready by the door as he emerged with his tartan in place, with his face patterned in ageless joy.
Liliana: Important was presentation. At least that was the thought coursing through mind of Liliana. A woman who had for most of life spent years working in the household of others. Upon getting her own? She sought to make it presentable for guests when they arrived. It'd been this way for many years now. Stepping outside room, to allow her husband his own inspection, mocha gaze perused the household from husband, to mother-in-law, to sister-in-law, and along all three children. Occasionally a hand would move out to adjust a piece of fabric or tuck hair out of way for the children. "Aye, you all look wonderful. My handsome husband and lovely family." Rest were given leave to go to main hall while palms gently touched chest of husband through fabric to place gentle kiss to lips. "Am I passable, husband?" Smile wide, she sought her own inspection with a turn of body in circle.
Katerina: As the men laughed and shook hands Katerina smiled and nodded and kicked her horse to move once more. Soon they rode through the gate and Katerina relaxed instantly. Bringing their horses to a halt Corban and Liam dismounted and before any could come and assist her she hopped of her horse,her hood up and Corban and Liam at her side they waited to be led in and announced.
Kendrew: "The Lady makes inspection. Turn ye again, I enjoy the view." Lara admonished her brother the loose talk he used on a good Christian woman, while Dona chuckled. The children's excitement announced the presence of the guests by the time the page would say that the Lairdess of MacKinnon had made her arrival, with Sir Corban and Sir Liam, of the Clan. Formality was mingled with warm exchange as Kendrew waited for the chance to take the small, pale hand so that he might draw her into his arms.
Liliana: Mischief danced in brown eyes as they met her husband's own. While Lara admonished Liliana could only laugh. Announcement by children drew Lara and Dona down, leaving a moment where Liliana spun once more though far slower then stated saucily while walking by for only his ears,"Perhaps next time my circles shall be accompanied by dancing, husband." A wink and feet moved down stairs so gracefully that one would be unable to fathom how she did so while carrying. Liliana watched the children who pointed and whispered, admonishing quietly for them to use manners, and stood quietly by husband to allow him to commence introductions. This was a woman whom Liliana had not yet had honor of meeting though Kendrew talked of her often.
Katerina: Once inside a young lady asked if she could take Katerina's cloak and with a nod Kat handed it to her.... Kat had her clan tartan draped over one shoulder as was custom and pinned with clan badge. Liam and Corban as well wore MacKinnon colors and were proud to do so. Kat heard the laughter of children and turned to look as the family she had come to see came into view... her smile brightened.. and she had to look down and blink as to not cry she was so happy. Corban laid a hand on her shoulder... as if to say 'all is well', they had gotten to know each other well these past months and she trusted him as much as she trusted Kendrew and Liam as well. Only now her nerves were kicking in and she brushed her hands over her dress once more.
Kendrew: "Welcome to Cuin Suiar, m'lady, brethren in arms. We are ones for civility here, not staunch loyalists to silence." Katerina would be brought by that hand into the wide arms that waited to recieve her. "A home, it should be for you here. Come. Lairdess MacKinnon, Sirs Liam and Corban, may I present to you the Lady Liliana Campbell, my wife, the Ladies Dona and Lara, my mother and my sister. My children: Roric, Kiley, and Glenna? The last is not yet born." He smirked in wry formation, offering a hand then to welcome the men as Lara and Dona made their respective cursties upon presentation. Why, even the small girls were gems of manners. What else was to be done of it? The Ladies Campbell were women of clan, of court, and of place. Roric would bow.
Liliana: Sense of familiar stared back at Liliana. Silence was her companion though not an offensive one. Instead mocha eyes appraised the young girl, watched the way hand smoothed over gown, and immediately heart squeezed with sympathy. In Katerina was seen a glimpse of herself upon first coming to Skye. Tears stung at her eyes, but she did not shed them. Instead they were blinked away as family was observed with overwhelming pride. Children had been taught manners well by the adults in household. Understandably Liliana did not curtsy, as it'd be a bit tricky to do so in condition, though gave a deep nod of head in respect. That lasted of about two seconds. Perhaps it was that motherly urge inside that did it, but as soon as Kendrew released Katerina the young woman would find Liliana's arms embracing her. "Aye, welcome. Please allow this home to feel as much yours as ours. Kendrew speaks of you often."
Katerina: Katerina stood with hands clasped before her as Kendrew greeted her then pulled her into a hug... she smiled and returned his embrace. "Home? I like the sound of that and thank you." her voice was soft and her brogue a bit more pronounced but then again how could it not be. Stepping back as Kendrew introduced his family she curtsied to his wife first, "Nice to meet you Lady Liliana... I have heard alot of you and I am pleased to finally meet you." she stood gracefully and nodded to his mother and sister "Lady Dona... Lady Lara... a pleasure." then she turned to the children and smiled as they either bowed or curtsied and she did the same in return to them. "Congratulations to you both. May you have a happy, healthy babe." she met Liliana's eyes and smiled as the woman embraced her and Kat's eyes welled with tears.... she hugged the woman back gently. "Thank you M'Lady... I would be honored to have this be a home as well to me." she had to wipe her eyes as her tears fell. It was like being part of a real family again... with a mother and father... though Liliana was not much older than Kat herself.
Kendrew: "So you are as honored as you say, lass. Welcome home then. Welcome home." Dona and Lara would insist for a chance to see the famed MacKinnon heiress that Kendrew had personally escorted with her. "Do nay suffocate the girl, all that time upon a horse she'll need to breathe!"
"Mother is right. All that time amongst men, too. You must be drownin' in their talk." A scrutinous eye flashed over Liam and Corban, but one of jest. Lara new life among such men, and it was a good one.
"So now, I should turn her over towards you women to show her where she might find a little res tand comfort, before dinner. Or will you bog her ears with talk of hens, cows, the villages, and other such woman's things? Och. My life, Corban." He lifted a hand and came unto Liam, placing a hand upon both shoulders. "Is frought by women."
"But Da, I'm here too!"
"Yes Roric, you are, Jesu. Save me from your sisters." The little girls laughed and with introductions done they went back to some childish game save for Glenna, who went back to Liliana's skirts.
Liliana: "Aye, better for us to smother her with talk of womanly matters than to allow you men to corrupt her with your talk." Liliana's brown eyes glittered though attention was turned to Corban and Liam now,"Welcome to Cuin Sair as well, good sirs. You, as well as the Lady MacKinnon, are welcome to dine with us this eve and we have prepared chambers. We cannot allow you, in good conscious, to travel back by light of moon." It would not be safe, no. Liliana's laugh came at Roric's attempt to soothe his Father,"Do not pay him no mind, Roric. You know your Da much loves being surrounded by us women." While the children went back to game and Glenna latched onto Liliana's skirts, she murmured,"Would you like to rest in chambers a bit? I know the journey is long and taxing. Or we could gather at table for drinks to relax." The men could be allowed to join them or sit near fire to talk of 'manly matters'. Glenna peeked at both males from shelter of mother's skirts and would dart behind them again when they glanced her way. Little flirt this one- going to break many a heart.
Katerina: Katerina could not help but smile as Kendrew welcomed her home "This is the best home coming one could ask for." she said with a nod. As each took a moment to hug and greet her it was overwhelming... " thank you all... it .... it means a great deal to me.." looking once more to Liliana " Please just call me Katerina or Kat there is no need to be so formal among family Aye?" she laughed for it was then the young man Roric spoke and she watched Kendrew's face soften when he looked at his wife. " Perhaps a drink or two before going to chambers would be nice... besides I have something for Lord Kendrew and for you as well." she smiled at them both.
Kendrew: "Aye, let us be of leave of name! If it is good enough for the baptismal font, tis good enough for man's use. This way, my dear. We shall drink a good toast to your arrival. Tell me the way of things, tell us all. We shall join ye, we men. We might have leave of you later to smoke pipes." He looked t oher at the mention of gifts "Now why did ye bring me a gift at all, child? That wasn't needed. This is enough. What more does an old man need? I am surrounded by ever youthful vigor."
"Kendrew, yer full of it." His mother touched his face but she for a gray haired woman had lost neither the figure that won her a husband nor the length of hair despite the steel color. God would not be calling Dona home until she was good and ready to leave! One of the maids was kind enough to pour what all might desire by way of drink. The moon over Drynoch was a lovely thing. It was good, beautiful country just outside of the Cullins.
Kendrew: "Today is a better day" In dark chambers he breathed words into the ear of sleeping wife before he rose. A farmer's custom, the warrior had never given it up. Dona had known that like his father, he required a bowl of water to wash his hands and face before dressing with the cold darkness before the sunrise. Like his father before him, he would walk the halls built by his own hand before standing on the steps that led inside. By the time the sun was in the Skye he would have completed three things more than most men begin to contemplate doing. Sweet pipe weed would cling to him as he signed documents, or rode into the town to survey homes. He would take taxes, only to return them in a beneficial turn to the preservation of the town where sheep ranchers expanded to farmers, leather workers. Today was a better day. Prayer uttered to God granted him the strength to be still while it would begin to fortify the weight in his hand. Still, with the news that Katerina was coming to see them he would smile. No matter what violence was waiting to be wrought, his love for those near him never died.
Liliana: Better days. Was that not what all sought? Aye, this began them. As husband washed wife did not lay sleeping. Lids lifted leisurely to observe his morning ritual as he prepared to go about days business. Smile curved lips to whisper words of love as he left before finally Liliana roused to prepare herself. Sleeping all day was not a liking of hers. Even pregnant she rarely slept in or took naps. Household required attention that could not be given while one laid about bed. Simple skirts and blouse was tossed on, ebon hair secured in tight braid, while halls were swept, rushes cleaned or fresh ones woven, and meals discussed. Women of the household- those in service and family alike- could be heard laughing in kitchen. Talking of events that had transpired with a sparkle in eyes and merriment in voice. Children were roused from sleep, washed and dressed, and sent about chores and education. Even little Glenna had a duty to attend as tiny hands kneaded at a smaller bit of dough while Mother tended to larger. "Aye, Glenna, that is it. Your Da will love the loaf and we will have it with dinner." A guard brought news of expected guest that sent about rousing orders of preparation of a room incase Katerina should wish to spend the evening.
Katerina: Katerina had done many things since she rose before dawn and prepared for this trip. Liam was a new attatchment to her personal guards... he had worked for Patrick... but then saw the truth as Kendrew pointed them out... he had saved her life and in return pledge himself to her protection as had Corban... though Corban had been appointed by Kendrew for the task.. he had chosen to stay on with her. She smiled as the two men chatted her mind centered on visiting with Kendrew and his wife whom she had yet to meet. Katerina had grown up much in these past several months and was more than pleased with how the clan had accepted her as their Lairdess. In her saddle packs were gifts for the Lord and Lady Campbell. The sun was well over head and the journey not near to being over when Corban called a halt so they could eat and rest the horses.
Kendrew: "Let it be an open supper. Tell you tha' the Lady of MacKinnon is coming. We shall welcome her, and enjoy the Sabbath heartily." The spirit of Lent disintegrated in the holy time before the birth of Christ. God would forgive the absence of fealty to the idea for he had so long lived in Lent beyond forty days. It was near to forty years before he found his rebirth. There was time before the lauded guest would show, so he too would make his hands covered in sawdust repairing fence posts, chapped with cold in lifting stone. He discussed new plots of land that he wanted tilled for spring planting as the season came early to the island. The hold-fast was inspected to be found flawless, and his stable holding of fine dapple grays. While no castle, Cuin Siar was no less than an estate home fit for a Chieftain and his wife. Fallow fields were quiet beneath a thin layer of drying rain. Life was good despite those who sought to unravel it.
Liliana: Measurements for evening meal was doubled as the women adjusted for arriving guests. Generally meal was attended by family and others. Liliana found it beneficial to invite those of the clan to dine with them upon occasion. Evening would find a single man and a family dining with the Lord and Lady. Tonight though preparation was made for the visit of Katerina MacKinnon and entourage. Linens were beat clean in the outside air before being lightly sprinkled with scented water that would remind one of the smell of forest and roses. "Aye, that one for the Lady MacKinnon. I think it will suit her. It needs flowers Dona..." Brown eyes pondered this matter before turning to look in direction of little Glenna,"Would you like to go gather some of the pretty snowdrops with Kylie?" The little girls dark head nodded eagerly and Liliana sought the eldest daughter to give orders- snowdrops and rhododendron were to be gathered to be placed in the guests rooms. Liliana moved to watch from the porch as both ran out into chill day, brown eyes searching for husband, while she mused,"What else do we need prepare, Dona?"
Katerina: Though the sun was out it was still cold out and Katerina was wearing a fur lined cloak, a deep blue dress of wool... practical for riding. They had stopped by a small loch to rest the horses and eat. Liam had spread a large tartan for them to sit on as they ate. "It will be good to see Lord Kendrew again..." she said to noone in particular and both men smiled for had been excited for a week now. They knew she loved the man like a father and both Knights were friends with him as well. Before Kendrew had left Katerina asked him to be a witness of her first duty as Lairdess and that was to Knight Liam... who since had taken the name MacKinnon. Kat smiled at them as they finished eating and packed things up to once more be on their way. In a few hours the sun would be setting and though bandits were not as common as they had once been she would feel better once on Campbell lands and under Kendrew's roof . Corban and Liam felt the same and hence why they were now pushing their steeds racing the sun.
Dona: "We be fine, Liliana. Get in the house, girl. Rest. My grandson needs some respite for his mother taxes him so. Let Lara see to the laying out of the dishes. Rest, make yourself pretty thereafter. Not that ye'd have to try hard." Dona scoffed at that thought. Liliana needn't 'try' at anything. Strong wrists snapped a linen with none on the end to catch it. She drew it back in, folding it deftly across the arm. An empty one claimed her daughter in law to follow through the great doors. "Good lesson to afford you. Heed me: Enjoy what you have wrought. Greater defeat comes when that is nay longer possible. That, would be what haunted my husband his days. God rest his soul."
Kendrew: Kendrew watched at a distance the talk of women, watched his daughters gather creation into tiny hands."What of the party, how close are they?" He called out to the mounted men. "Go, look. Bring them over if ye find them on the road while I go to make ready!" Sweat shone against his brow, along he thick arms exposed despite the winter season.
Liliana: Soft laughter, holding life and energy in its depths, carried upon wind. "A woman could not ask for a better mother by marriage than you Dona Campbell." Lips met the woman's cheek with soft touch briefly before glancing out over the land a moment. "I go to make ready then. Just see that the children are washed again and that Kendrew does so as well. I will not have my husband greeting the MacKinnon Lairdess as if he were rolling around in the muck." Liliana checked one more time for any sign of things that might need adjusting as steps carried her inside. Then finally made for the stairs that led to chambers. Clothing was chose carefully, a gown of clan colors that was warm and flattering, after having washed any trace of cleaning and cooking from body. Nothing hid the proof of second child to come in May now, Dona's grandson making a fuss inside, and Liliana whispered,"You are going to be as much a handful as your Father. Be calm, little one." Hands were placed on either side of stomach to soothe the kicking to no avail and Liliana sighed while brushing out ebon strands to a bright sheen, and left them fall down back. Meanwhile ears listened closely for any sound of approaching horse.
Katerina: Dusk quickly was upon them as they raced towards Kendrew's home when three men rode out to meet them not to far away. "Lord Kendrew sent us to meet up with you ad escort you onward." Katerina smiled for it seemed her heart father would not have her just ride up. "Thank you... we would welcome the company." they had since slowed their pace now the six rode towards the keep... and the closer they got the bigger her smile grew. Kat could not wait to see Kendrew and be off this damn horse.
Kendrew: Kendrew was not a handful, but a woman did try to reign in her husband to be respectable whilst at home. Men are honed for war, for things of intensity are they not? The truth of it was that she was often the one thing that quelled him from tossing a great many out of his house on their ear. None wished to rile the ire of the Lord at Cuin Suiar, especially after the latest round of gossip caught wild fire in the territory of a plot that was dismantled where any tried to come between the man and his wife.
Riding up to the party, the men of Campbell shook hands with Mackinnon brethren. "Onward them. Food, warmth wait ye. Pints of ale if the men have a mind, none picks a finer barrel than the Laird nay?" They jested. The Laird of mention would soon be made ready to surpass a woman's approval.
Dona herself had awaited outside the chamber door with a mother's proud smile upon her face. "Would that your father see you wear such colors.." she bemused.
Offering her a place infront, he would come upon Lara after her own transformation. Such a proud, resolute beauty! "Wife, do we please?" Lara laughed, moving with Dona to stand ready by the door as he emerged with his tartan in place, with his face patterned in ageless joy.
Liliana: Important was presentation. At least that was the thought coursing through mind of Liliana. A woman who had for most of life spent years working in the household of others. Upon getting her own? She sought to make it presentable for guests when they arrived. It'd been this way for many years now. Stepping outside room, to allow her husband his own inspection, mocha gaze perused the household from husband, to mother-in-law, to sister-in-law, and along all three children. Occasionally a hand would move out to adjust a piece of fabric or tuck hair out of way for the children. "Aye, you all look wonderful. My handsome husband and lovely family." Rest were given leave to go to main hall while palms gently touched chest of husband through fabric to place gentle kiss to lips. "Am I passable, husband?" Smile wide, she sought her own inspection with a turn of body in circle.
Katerina: As the men laughed and shook hands Katerina smiled and nodded and kicked her horse to move once more. Soon they rode through the gate and Katerina relaxed instantly. Bringing their horses to a halt Corban and Liam dismounted and before any could come and assist her she hopped of her horse,her hood up and Corban and Liam at her side they waited to be led in and announced.
Kendrew: "The Lady makes inspection. Turn ye again, I enjoy the view." Lara admonished her brother the loose talk he used on a good Christian woman, while Dona chuckled. The children's excitement announced the presence of the guests by the time the page would say that the Lairdess of MacKinnon had made her arrival, with Sir Corban and Sir Liam, of the Clan. Formality was mingled with warm exchange as Kendrew waited for the chance to take the small, pale hand so that he might draw her into his arms.
Liliana: Mischief danced in brown eyes as they met her husband's own. While Lara admonished Liliana could only laugh. Announcement by children drew Lara and Dona down, leaving a moment where Liliana spun once more though far slower then stated saucily while walking by for only his ears,"Perhaps next time my circles shall be accompanied by dancing, husband." A wink and feet moved down stairs so gracefully that one would be unable to fathom how she did so while carrying. Liliana watched the children who pointed and whispered, admonishing quietly for them to use manners, and stood quietly by husband to allow him to commence introductions. This was a woman whom Liliana had not yet had honor of meeting though Kendrew talked of her often.
Katerina: Once inside a young lady asked if she could take Katerina's cloak and with a nod Kat handed it to her.... Kat had her clan tartan draped over one shoulder as was custom and pinned with clan badge. Liam and Corban as well wore MacKinnon colors and were proud to do so. Kat heard the laughter of children and turned to look as the family she had come to see came into view... her smile brightened.. and she had to look down and blink as to not cry she was so happy. Corban laid a hand on her shoulder... as if to say 'all is well', they had gotten to know each other well these past months and she trusted him as much as she trusted Kendrew and Liam as well. Only now her nerves were kicking in and she brushed her hands over her dress once more.
Kendrew: "Welcome to Cuin Suiar, m'lady, brethren in arms. We are ones for civility here, not staunch loyalists to silence." Katerina would be brought by that hand into the wide arms that waited to recieve her. "A home, it should be for you here. Come. Lairdess MacKinnon, Sirs Liam and Corban, may I present to you the Lady Liliana Campbell, my wife, the Ladies Dona and Lara, my mother and my sister. My children: Roric, Kiley, and Glenna? The last is not yet born." He smirked in wry formation, offering a hand then to welcome the men as Lara and Dona made their respective cursties upon presentation. Why, even the small girls were gems of manners. What else was to be done of it? The Ladies Campbell were women of clan, of court, and of place. Roric would bow.
Liliana: Sense of familiar stared back at Liliana. Silence was her companion though not an offensive one. Instead mocha eyes appraised the young girl, watched the way hand smoothed over gown, and immediately heart squeezed with sympathy. In Katerina was seen a glimpse of herself upon first coming to Skye. Tears stung at her eyes, but she did not shed them. Instead they were blinked away as family was observed with overwhelming pride. Children had been taught manners well by the adults in household. Understandably Liliana did not curtsy, as it'd be a bit tricky to do so in condition, though gave a deep nod of head in respect. That lasted of about two seconds. Perhaps it was that motherly urge inside that did it, but as soon as Kendrew released Katerina the young woman would find Liliana's arms embracing her. "Aye, welcome. Please allow this home to feel as much yours as ours. Kendrew speaks of you often."
Katerina: Katerina stood with hands clasped before her as Kendrew greeted her then pulled her into a hug... she smiled and returned his embrace. "Home? I like the sound of that and thank you." her voice was soft and her brogue a bit more pronounced but then again how could it not be. Stepping back as Kendrew introduced his family she curtsied to his wife first, "Nice to meet you Lady Liliana... I have heard alot of you and I am pleased to finally meet you." she stood gracefully and nodded to his mother and sister "Lady Dona... Lady Lara... a pleasure." then she turned to the children and smiled as they either bowed or curtsied and she did the same in return to them. "Congratulations to you both. May you have a happy, healthy babe." she met Liliana's eyes and smiled as the woman embraced her and Kat's eyes welled with tears.... she hugged the woman back gently. "Thank you M'Lady... I would be honored to have this be a home as well to me." she had to wipe her eyes as her tears fell. It was like being part of a real family again... with a mother and father... though Liliana was not much older than Kat herself.
Kendrew: "So you are as honored as you say, lass. Welcome home then. Welcome home." Dona and Lara would insist for a chance to see the famed MacKinnon heiress that Kendrew had personally escorted with her. "Do nay suffocate the girl, all that time upon a horse she'll need to breathe!"
"Mother is right. All that time amongst men, too. You must be drownin' in their talk." A scrutinous eye flashed over Liam and Corban, but one of jest. Lara new life among such men, and it was a good one.
"So now, I should turn her over towards you women to show her where she might find a little res tand comfort, before dinner. Or will you bog her ears with talk of hens, cows, the villages, and other such woman's things? Och. My life, Corban." He lifted a hand and came unto Liam, placing a hand upon both shoulders. "Is frought by women."
"But Da, I'm here too!"
"Yes Roric, you are, Jesu. Save me from your sisters." The little girls laughed and with introductions done they went back to some childish game save for Glenna, who went back to Liliana's skirts.
Liliana: "Aye, better for us to smother her with talk of womanly matters than to allow you men to corrupt her with your talk." Liliana's brown eyes glittered though attention was turned to Corban and Liam now,"Welcome to Cuin Sair as well, good sirs. You, as well as the Lady MacKinnon, are welcome to dine with us this eve and we have prepared chambers. We cannot allow you, in good conscious, to travel back by light of moon." It would not be safe, no. Liliana's laugh came at Roric's attempt to soothe his Father,"Do not pay him no mind, Roric. You know your Da much loves being surrounded by us women." While the children went back to game and Glenna latched onto Liliana's skirts, she murmured,"Would you like to rest in chambers a bit? I know the journey is long and taxing. Or we could gather at table for drinks to relax." The men could be allowed to join them or sit near fire to talk of 'manly matters'. Glenna peeked at both males from shelter of mother's skirts and would dart behind them again when they glanced her way. Little flirt this one- going to break many a heart.
Katerina: Katerina could not help but smile as Kendrew welcomed her home "This is the best home coming one could ask for." she said with a nod. As each took a moment to hug and greet her it was overwhelming... " thank you all... it .... it means a great deal to me.." looking once more to Liliana " Please just call me Katerina or Kat there is no need to be so formal among family Aye?" she laughed for it was then the young man Roric spoke and she watched Kendrew's face soften when he looked at his wife. " Perhaps a drink or two before going to chambers would be nice... besides I have something for Lord Kendrew and for you as well." she smiled at them both.
Kendrew: "Aye, let us be of leave of name! If it is good enough for the baptismal font, tis good enough for man's use. This way, my dear. We shall drink a good toast to your arrival. Tell me the way of things, tell us all. We shall join ye, we men. We might have leave of you later to smoke pipes." He looked t oher at the mention of gifts "Now why did ye bring me a gift at all, child? That wasn't needed. This is enough. What more does an old man need? I am surrounded by ever youthful vigor."
"Kendrew, yer full of it." His mother touched his face but she for a gray haired woman had lost neither the figure that won her a husband nor the length of hair despite the steel color. God would not be calling Dona home until she was good and ready to leave! One of the maids was kind enough to pour what all might desire by way of drink. The moon over Drynoch was a lovely thing. It was good, beautiful country just outside of the Cullins.
