|
Post by Men of Skye on May 2, 2010 15:25:53 GMT -6
All day long, Jonathan toiled in the smithy... his intricate tools maneuvered the soft metal before it cooled. His eyes would flicker back and forth between the prototype and his new piece... The new wheel-lock firing mechanism destined for the Mo’r Triath’s armed forces. The first new wheel-lock would be installed on an ornate hand-gonne that was being produced. Lord Flynn and Lord Zurban called it a “pistol”.
Midday, Eryn would show up, basket in hand, and smile at her husband, motioning him to stop and come eat. Using his handkerchief, he would wipe the sweat from his brow and removed the leather apron. “Aye lass, right on time... My stomach was beginning to curse at me...” As he moved to the makeshift dining table. Eryn had moved his tools of trade from the table, and set a tablecloth over it... there she had set out the makings of a picnic.
“Love, I am so sorry I have been working so much... but now I am assured yu are well enough, and so am I, that I best get to work on Lord Adam’s project...” he huffed... “One hundred fifty is a lot, and I am a bit behind... would yu like to help?”
They had spent a few days just enjoying being together and making plans for the future. However it was now time for Jonathan to return to his work, he had been gone for hours now and Eryn packed a basket with food and set out to visit with him. Though it was grueling work he looked happy so she stood there for a while just watching him. "I brought you something to eat." she finally said and walked into the smithy and set the basket down.
Jonathan put aside his work and smiled at the offer to eat. “Fantastic luv, I am famished…” In a water pale, he washed the grime from his hands.
Clearing a small table of tools of his trade she set out the food and smiled when he joined her. They ate and talked she asked questions and he was all to glad to answer them. Then he asked if she wanted to help and she felt honored "I would love to... just tell me what I am to do."
He swallowed some of the bread and jerky she had brought… “Well, I have all these pieces I made and need yu to put some of them together… I shall show yu how…” then he began to eat some more…
Images came to her of holding swords in her hands but they faded as quickly as they appeared and she looked at her husband and smiled "Perhaps this will become a family affair in creating these weapons of your mind." she teased softly. Donning an apron that was hanging on a hook near her... and twisting her hair back from her face. "Alright I am ready."
After the meal, he wiped his mouth on his sleeve. And over the next hour, he showed her how to put the pieces of the Wheelock firing mechanism together. Then after the fourth try, she began to get it correct and he smiled at her. “See, I have faith in yu girl…” then he kissed her cheek.
All afternoon, they sat at the table and assembled the wheellocks, occasionally looking at one another. Boring, but they were together, doing something as a team… and by late evening, one of Jonathan’s usual customers, the messanger from the rangers, arrives asking him if he could fix a shoe, his horse had thrown.
And within 2 hours, the man was ready to depart… “Oh Jonathan lad, I have a message from your wife’s cousin… Lady Kaelyn requests that yu and Lady Eryn attend the ball upon the evening of the coronation…”
Jonathan looked at Eryn and smiled. “That’s fantastic… give the Lady Kaelyn a positive answer… we shall be there.”
Eryn was trying so hard to get it right and not mess things up and after a few feeble attempts finally got it. When Jonathan complimented her she shot him a bright smile as kissed her cheek. She was proud of herself and the fact that they were able to work side by side.
Hours passed as they sat and assembled the intricate parts and she was proud of her husband for he was given an important job and as far as she was concerned succeeding at it beyond her realm of knowledge. Late into the evening a customer arrived she lifted her head and smiled to the guard and went back to the parts in front of her determined to get her pile completed.
The man mentioned her cousin and she stopped working to listen to the conversation with interest for her cousin rarely summoned her or asked for her to attend anything. Jonathan said they would be there and her heart sunk. "Jonathan.... I.... I do not have anything appropriate enough to wear to such a gathering" she looked horrified as she glanced down at her dress.
Jonathan looked at Eryn when the man departed… his wife’s face showed concern… “Yu have a nice dress… the red green and gold one shall do fine…” he smiled as his hand caressed her face. “Yu would look ravishing even if yu had only a potato sack…” he tried to make her feel better. These two could have better financial means if, he were to work at his Spurs here in Skye, and if she used her title from Argania, but they were simple people, enjoying the simple life… far away from the past…
When he mentioned the dress he had bought her as a wedding gift her expression lightened and she all but glowed with joy. "Aye the red, green, and gold will work nicely." she said and then blushed when he said she would look ravishing in a potato sack "Then I shall wear one for you later... and we can see if you speak true about that." she winked and grinned at him with a saucy shake of her hips.
The day of the coronation started early, near sunrise, for many, but for Jonathan and Eryn, sunrise found them making love as the young wedded couple often did. Laying in each other’s arms, he caressed her face. “I know yu will look absolutely beautiful tonight…”
The procession passed two streets over from the forge, so Jonathan and Eryn made their way onto the tops of the buildings overlooking the procession. Sitting upon the ledge, they watched the Royal Procession pass beneath… It was a regal affair with all the black and gold flags fluttering along the way… Seeing the knights riding behind the procession, dressed in decorum battlegear made him smile.
He shook his head when she asked if he missed it.
After the procession had passed, they made their way back to the cottage. They would spend the rest of the day in preparation of the Ball…
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on May 7, 2010 21:44:42 GMT -6
Accusations and Revelations
Morning came too quickly, she thought, and without turning over she knew he was already at his shop working on the weapons for the now King. Eryn dressed and packed a basket of food and left to meet him to help... on the way there she ran into a few people... literally. They shouted and called her horrible names... and it was then she felt the pain as something was thrown at her. People gathered about her and were throwing stones, food, and anything else they could at her. "YOU ARE NOT WELCOME HERE, YOU MAUBREY WHORE!!"
Eryn was dazed and confused, and without thinking, was protecting her mid-section from the wayward blows of those that were shouting and throwing the rocks. However there was one who saw what was happening and ran to get Jonathan.
The young child, of one of the guards that helped them that day, skidded to a stop in the doorway of the smithy where Jonathan was working. "M'Lord... coom quick, tis yer Lady wife... she is in trouble!!! They bae throwin' stones and shoutin' thin's at her!!!" the boy looked scared as hell.
Eryn was lying on the ground shaking and crying "Please stop!!!! I do not know of what you speak!" her tone was that of one that was begging.
The project was going well… the first prototype was complete, and Jonathan had just affixed the wheellock into the pistol frame, and tightened it down. Admiring the pistol, he smiled, knowing the first was ready for the King’s approval.
As he held it up admiring the work, the lad entered, skidding to a halt, and proclaiming the situation. Grabbing a pouch of powder, and a few shot, Jonathan followed the lad out the door of the forge. On the way, he loaded the pistol, his awkward movements while loading the weapon would have been comical if not for the dire situation.
Rounding the corner of the building into the square, he saw Eryn laying upon the ground, a man standing over her, his curses loud and obnoxious… Normally Jonathan was a quiet mild-mannered young man, but to see his wife upon the ground send him into a fury… First he cokeed the pistol and aimed it at the man… but in a moment of clarity, he raised the pistol and fired it into the air… and just as quickly, he ran to the man, tackling him with the thrust of a bull…
The man never had a chance as Jonathan’s shoulder buried deep into the man’s stomach, knocking the wind out of him. With experience as a knight in combat, Jonathan rolled thru the punch and over the man to his feet, ready to spring into action. Waving the expended pistol at the onlookers, Jonathan dared anyone to attack him. “She’s done nothing to you… she is innocent… yu know not what you do!!!!” he screamed at the crowd. The crowd argued back and suddenly one man charged at Jonathan.
Spinning as the man neared him, Jonathan cracked the man in the head with the pistol barrel, dropping him immediately. At the same instance, several other men ran to him, grabbing his arms. As they pulled him away from Eryn, he saw a look in her eyes, that he had not seen in months…
Eryn was bruised and sore and more than anything she was scared. She kept her head covered with her arms and her face was down towards the ground when she heard a loud noise that made her jump… then her husband’s voice. She began to breathe a bit easier then as she looked up she saw as he launched himself at the man who had been yelling at her.
But when several men ran to him and restrained him… something in her twisted and shifted. Their eyes met and hers were cold as ice and his looked worried. With lightening reflexes she grabbed a sword from a man standing near her and spun around him to press the blade to his chest "RELEASE HIM NOW!!!" her voice was as cold as her gaze. The man, whom she held, looked scared and worried, for it all happened so fast he had no time to react. The woman was fast, he thought... then met the gazes of his friends who instantly did as she commanded. They shoved Jonathan towards her... yet she still held the sword to the man’s chest and gave a wicked sneer.
"They listen well.... like dogs... following commands." she said in his ear. Her other hand removed the dagger at his waist and with another turn she wrapped one arm about his neck.... and the other pressed the dagger to his throat. Eryn was as cold as ice to look at... and the others around saw it as well and took several steps back.
He had seen that look before… that gaze of death… that icy stare of the Lady Maubrey, the assassin Anwen… and his hand went up… “No baby… do not kill him…” Maneuvering himself near her, his hand ever-gently upon her arm. “It’s me, Jonathan… let the man go…” almost pleadingly.
She remained standing there in the middle of the square with a very large man nicely subdued by her blades... rather his blades... a wicked grin on her face as she watched another man move closer speaking gently to her.
With a shake of her head, a sneer, then a snort she released her hold on the weapons... and looked down at the hand that Jonathan had laid on her arm. "I am no man's baby... not now.... not ever!" she said coldly as she watched him go and speak with the guards that had just arrived.
Begrudgingly, she released the death grip she held upon the man… still she held the dagger and sword out toward the perceived enemy. Beside her Jonathan stood, continually coaxing her to put the weapons down. The guards had now arrived at the beckoning of some other people. Now, Jonathan stood between the guards and Eryn. After more than 30 minutes, Jonathan was able to convince Eryn that they were in no danger… and he was able to retrieve the dagger and sword surrendering them to a guard.
It had taken great restraint from her not to run the man through after they grabbed hold of Jonathan.... her head ached and she was more than glad when he came and said they could leave.
Once Jonathan was able to convince the guard of what had occurred… They were allowed to leave. Still as they walked back, Eryn had a swagger in her step… the confident swagger of the Lady Anwen. All he could think of was how brainwashed she had been as Eryn, to be convinced that Anwen was real.
Back at home, Anwen was surprised to see just how they lived. Refusing to believe she was Eryn, Jonathan became frustrated. As the two began to argue about William’s death and her predicament, she accused him of being less than a man. When she began to cause him to anger, she grabbed Jonathan by the shirt, he spun and slapped her hard, knocking her to the floor.
She had a bit more pep to her step as they walked home in almost silence... but once inside the home... she looked around and then turned to face him and the argument began. How could he think she was anyone other than Anwen Maubrey??? Her head ached more and when he told her William was dead she flew into a rage and attacked him.... but before she could mount a good attack her struck her hard... she then hit the floor and blacked out.
When she revived, she was laying on the bed, Jonathan sitting by the bed applying a cold compress. “Welcome back love…”
The next thing she knew she was in the bed with something being pressed to her face and the eyes of her husband looking at her. "What happened?" she asked as she placed a hand to her aching head... the scene was in bits and pieces of a puzzle... she became worried "Jonathan.... please love, I need to know." her voice was soft as it always was... and tears filled her eyes she felt as though she was losing her mind... again.
Jonathan caressed her face and smiled. “Tis been a long time since you had an occurrence… and I thought your malady was over…” The expression on her face pained him. He knew she must have felt as if her mind was deteriorating. He went to the kitchen and brought back some hot tea; making her sit up to drink, he began to explain the entire history behind her malady. In the years previous, up to and including the death of Maubrey, he was able to gather enough information about William, Gerard, Kira, and Anwen to piece together the history of her woe. And now, he had the distinction of providing her all he knew.
Time after time, her expression changed, as he spoke, and it was as if a dagger was thrust thru his heart each and every time… Finally, after almost two hours of painstaking detail, he explained the captivity, brainwashing, the lurid affair and eventual marriage… the training she endured, and the deeds she did. He explained to her about William’s concubine and the jealous rage Kira cast upon Anwen… He also told her of the torture she endured. He explained tyo her that it was he that was assigned the task of caring for Anwen… and him bringing her to Turas Lan. He finally settled in the chair and explained about the feelings that soon developed between he and the comatose Anwen, and the eventual discovery that Anwen Maubrey was truly Eryn Neila of Argania, cousin to Queen Kaelyn, the Ranger Elite of Skye. Leaning toward her, he began to inform her of how they began to love one another… and eventually marrying.
Sighing, he leans back and exhales slowly. “And that is how all this came about.” By now, his eyes were glistening, and his breath stuttered.
As he caressed her face she leaned into his hand and returned his smile shyly. Then as he began to tell her of all she had been through, she looked stricken and ill... Could she have done all those horrible things?? Had she really killed for nothing more than to kill?? Why had William Maubrey chosen her to make into a killer?? Had he ever really loved her at all or did he love his creation??
Images of the man filled her mind... from angry moments to those filled with passion... and her stomach rebelled... she took a few deep calming breathes and forced herself to sit and listen to all Jonathan had to say. When he spoke of how they fell in love and married, her expression softened... but for a moment, then it went back to looking pained. She shook her head slowly trying to take in all he had told her. "You.... you knew all this and yet you remained at my side, and loved me anyway?" she asked incredulously as she wiped the tears that were now falling down her cheeks. "I am... was a monster... a cold blooded and heartless murderer!" her voice cracked as her emotions broke free and she began to sob in earnest. Yet when he went to touch her to offer comfort... she shied away from him.
He simply nodded at her question, but followed up with his own comment. “Aye… t’was hard to figure out how such a beautiful lass could be such a horrid killer… but somehow, I knew, deep down inside, a soft, kind-hearted person, lie… Duty turned into caring… caring turned into affection… affection turned into a steadfast love… and that was before you even considered marrying me…” he tried to lighten the subject a bit.
As she thought about all he said bile rose in her throat and she flew from the bed and out the front door to a nearby tree... fell to her hands and knees and emptied her stomach. Knowing what she knew now, she understood why the villagers attacked her! And she deserved that and more, she thought... and another wave washed over her and she was sick once more.
The expression on his face changed once more when her hand went to her mouth, she bent slightly from the lurch of her stomach, and then ran outside. He knew she would be sick after hearing such as he had told her, but he could not keep the truth from her any longer. As she knelt by the tree, he started toward her.
Eryn wiped her mouth with hand turned back to the house and saw Jonathan walking towards her... she took a few steps in his direction "Jon....." her words cut off as her world went black.
Experienced as he was in her ailments, he had no idea what was going thru her mind, but he could guess; for he had seen it time and time again as she had a mental battle against Anwen and won. But what he did not expect was her to black out again. She had not had an episode in months… Kneeling down he tried to revive her, and concern sparked his soul. Scooping her into his arms, he carried her back into the cottage. Laying her upon the bed, he got the water and rags ready for the time he’d spend with her. Placing the damp towel upon her forehead, he settled in the chair. “Lass, come back… we cannot allow this to overcome what we have accomplished together. I love you so much…” he continued the soft conversation to her not knowing, nor caring, if she heard it or not… maybe it was for him as much as it was for her.
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on May 15, 2010 21:08:38 GMT -6
To the Doctor Hours went by.......Eryn lay on the bed something cool on her face she heard him speak and the words ripped at her heat... her eyes slowly fluttered open. She had no idea how long she had been out, just that she was not well. It was not like before, though this was different? The concern in his face made her want to cry… "Jonathan?" his name a soft whisper filled with love fell from her lips.
She looked tired, a shell and pale to boot; but there was something different as well.... there were no lingering signs of 'Anwen' as there had been in the past. Once more she had won that battle... her head did not hurt... but her stomach was another thing she felt sick again. She reached up and stroked his handsome face... her stomach churned and she inhaled slow and deep to calm it. She turned and saw a bucket nearby that seemed to be calling her name and once more she leapt from the bed bent over it and was sick.And like a shadow, he was right there… his hand upon her back, slightly rubbing it a bit… “Eryn, we must get yu to the doctor… I am afraid of yu being sick all the time… maybe it was bad food…” he knelt near her and offered her a damp rag.
He took neither argument, nor resistance from her… Soon, they would walk from the forge to the Infirmary, where they were met by a physician assistant. “I am unsure what is wrong with her… she cannot keep anything down… she is constantly throwing up… gut wrenching almost…” and whisked away from his side, she went with the medical person. He was not allowed to accompany her… and he left… He was bound and determined to solve the riddle of Anwen… She was dead, and Eryn now lived… He knew only time would solve the hatred of Maubrey that lived in the eyes of the people in Turas Lan.
Shop by shop, door to door, he proceeded to each man… and sometimes each woman, often three or four in a group, explaining the circumstances of Anwen and Eryn… He placed his reputation as a solid citizen and metalworker that Eryn was no longer the person they saw. Some felt for him, some resisted…but in the meanwhile, the women seemed to understand better than the men… and in the end, it would be the women who convinced the men to give Eryn Verigs the chance for redemption.
Four hours later, his throat a bit hoarse from all the talking, and his legs tight from all the walking, he prayed that he had planted a seed of harmony for the people of Turas Lan about his beautiful wife… and hopefully that seed would spread about the entire city… Being a metropolis, he knew only time would tell. As he entered the corridor, he inquired about Eryn.
Eryn was not going to argue with him she felt awful... taking the damp rag he offered her she wiped her face. "Aye... I think that is a good idea..." she said softly.
The walk was a bit longer than normal as she had to keep stopping as she was sick, by the time they arrived she was pale and leaning heavily on Jonathan for support. They were met by a physician's assistant... who with nothing but a look took her hand and led her away from Jonathan to a room where she was to wait for the healer.
Time passed slowly and once the healer arrived she asked Eryn lots of questions and after an hour and a exam she smiled at Eryn and patted her hand gently. "M'lady there is nothing wrong with you other than you are with child." the healer smiled at her.
Eryn could not believe her ears... she was with child? So long had they tried... and now they would be family. She placed a hand gently on her flat belly and began to cry she could not wait to tell Jonathan.
The healer gave her some weak tea with some herbs in it to keep her from being sick so often and gave her a pouch with more and told her how to brew it. Eryn still crying nodded in understanding. A soft knock sounded on the door a young woman poked her head in. "The lady's husband is here should I show him in?" she asked softly and when the healer nodded she went to get him.
Sitting comfortably in a chair with her tea... tears streaking her face Jonathan entered the room. "I will leave you two alone.... take all the time you need." the healer said and gently closed the door and left the two of them there.
Eryn looked at her husband with tears in her eyes... "I have something to tell you." was all she said for now.
Jonathan waited patiently to see his wife… His mind bounced from the discussions with the townsfolk and the condition of his wife. He looked around the pristine Infirmary… no longer were the haphazard, unclean rooms of healers… or the musty cottages of ill-experienced physicians. Lady Aislin, as Court Physician, had greatly enhanced the medical standards of Turas Lan, as well, as much of the Gaelic Nations.
Life could be evil… and the worst came to mind had come to mind as he waited. Jonathan’s heart sank to the pit of his stomach as he was shown to his wife. Then she spoke, and her words came accompanied with tears. Going straight to her, his arm immediately upon her shoulder… “Tell me Eryn… what did they say…?”
Eryn was an emotional wreck... joy and fear... both within her. They had talked about a family and with the work he was doing this may not be the best of times for them to start one.... but what was done was done.
Jonathan entered the room and rushed to her, his hands on her shoulders, concern in his eyes, she looked up and sniffed... then a soft smile curved her lips. "Jonathan... I ... I am with child!" she blurted out and tears filled her eyes more. "You are going to be a father." she hugged him. Hoping he was as happy as she was about the news.
The first sentence really didn’t register in his brain… but the second sentence did… and in her hug, he repeated… “F..Fa..Father??” then he hugged her back, tight at first, then in a jerk back, he checked to see if he harmed her… then hugged her again… “A Father…” and he repeated over and over in nothing but whispers… “God bless yu Eryn…” as his hand went to her belly. “We have finally done it… after all this time…”
At the prospect of becoming a father, Jonathan was filled with excitement, fear, wonder, worry, love, and confusion. But even that could not stop him from displaying the joy of the idea. Looking at the healer, Jonathan asked if they could go home… and in receiving a positive answer, the couple stepped into the new version of their world… a world without Maubrey… a world of family… now would it be a boy or a girl?? Oh, not to mention, the sex they would have, or not have!!
The walk home was slow… and as with every new Father, Jonathan now seemed over-protective… to the extreme… and it would make Eryn laugh… finally.
As Jonathan realized what she had said she nodded unable to speak. They sat there holding each other both crying at the joyous news. Finally finding her voice once more "Yes my heart a father." she smiled at him, and then he touched her belly and she covered his hand with her smaller one. "Aye, we have done it.... my love..." her voice still laced heavily with emotion.
He was ecstatic… then he got a feigned look of concern upon his face… “Does this mean we cannot continue to practice?” then he chuckled as his face could hold the tease.
Eryn herself was filled with many emotions most of which was fear... what if she had another blackout... or ... or... NO! she would not allow herself to go there... Anwen was no more it was only Eryn Verigs now... or so she prayed silently it would be so.
The healer smiled as she looked at the happy parents-to-be and when asked if they could leave she said yes and reminded them about the tea and herbs to help keep Eryn from being sick so much. As well as reminded them she needed to be careful for the first few months were critical in keeping the babe from being lost.
As they walked home Jonathan kept the pace slow and his arm about her. Seeing a small rock in the path he stretched a leg forward and kicked it out of her way. Asked about a hundred times if she needed to rest? If she felt alright? He indeed was over protective but even if it made her crazy she was happy. "Jonathan... I m not the first woman to be with child." she scolded softly laughter in her tone.
“No, yu are not; but yu are the first woman with child I have ever loved and been married to…” he chuckled in retort.
Yes it made her laugh to see him this way and for the first time in a long time he had a bounce to his step... his hand coming to rest gently on her belly every so often. Once back at their home they went about their routines before dinner. He watched her like a hawk... as she went to lift the pale of water he was right there and took it from her... she could only shake her head and smile. Glad to see him this happy.
The next day he returned to the forge and she went about cleaning the house after promising she would not over do things a million times before he finally left. She prepared him his lunch and got the basket ready and left to meet him.
The forge and the tasks at hand did not seem as dark and hot as it had in the past… for some odd reason, things seemed different. Even after the mild scolding of him trying to do everything for her, he would not stop trying. He swung the heavy hammer melding the red hot metal, molding it into various shapes… He missed her… and wished she was here with him.
As she walked through the village she became fearful... but as people stopped their chores and looked at her she sensed a difference in them. A man approached her... she recognized him as one of the ones who attacked her… dropping the basket she placed her hands over her belly and gave him a fearful look. He raised his hands in front of him as if to say he meant her no harm.... she relaxed slightly... "M'lady I came to apologize.... I.... I did not know... your husband told us....." he dropped to a knee in front of her and gently took her hands in his "Forgive me...??" It was a question and he looked so sincere she could not refuse him "Aye... Sir I forgive you...." she said softly as the man looked at her his eyes shimmered with tears. Then before she knew what was happening more people gathered and begged her forgiveness which she gave.
The man stood and picked up the basket and offered to walk her the short way to the forge she nodded and smiled... for she had no words to explain how the change in these people made her feel like she was finally be excepted. Entering the forge she smiled as she saw Jonathan hard at work and then even more so when he turned and saw who had entered with her.
Dressed in leather trousers, a light shirt, and wearing a heavy leather, full apron, his arm pumping the bellows while the other hand rotated an iron, which tip was in the hot fire. As he pulled the rod from the fire, he began pounding a heavy hammer against it… then he stuck the shaped metal into the water with the rod. The steam billowed into the air, and it was then he saw Eryn… and beside her, the man from the fight. Despite his thin frame, he was an ominous figure standing there a rod in one hand, a heavy hammer in the other… the muscles flexing as he turned to face them.
He was ready to fight as at a moment’s glance, but seeing her smiling, and the man holding the basket, made him change his attitude. Immediately, upon the change in attitude, he changed his stance and made his way away from the hot forge; setting down the hammer and rod to the side. “Lunch, I presume…” as he looked at Eryn… and then to the man… “G’day MiLord… I pray this day finds yu well…”
Had his belligerence with the townsfolk paid off? Was he able to convince them of Eryn’s change? He smiled… “MiLord, yu shall be happy to know I shall be a Father…” he smiled at Eryn, then looked at the man… “Eryn is with child… Our first…” Eryn smiled as she saw him hard at work doing what he loved creating things... and this project was important to him. When he turned and saw here there with the man who attacked her he looked ready to fight, but then something changed in him when he really looked at her and Seth... the man told her his name on the way here to the forge.
Pleasantries exchanged between the two and Seth set the basket on a small table... "G'day to you as well M'Lord Verigs." he said in deep yet soft voice. "I have asked your lady wife for forgiveness and now ask it of you as well." he faced Jonathan head bowed.
At Jonathan's next words his head snapped up to look at her and shame streaked across what could be called a handsome rugged face. Seeing him look at her Eryn nodded and smiled as if confirming Jonathan's words, her cheeks flushed with joy. Seth smiled and took Jonathan's hand within his own and shook it. “Congratulations to both of you...my wife....Maureen is a mid wife should you have need of her for anything." he offered in a friendly tone smiling at them.
"Thank you Seth we will keep that in mind." Eryn said standing beside her husband now who's hand went to her flat belly making her smile brighter. Before Seth left, he offered to walk Eryn home if she decided to leave before Jonathan had finished working for the day.
On and off, several others came to offer them congratulations and offer their skills and such to the happy parents to be. Their dreams were finally coming true... and they sat to eat and talk "Is it to soon to think of names?" she asked Jonathan as she took a bite of some bread and sipped her tea from the healer. Smiling as she was it rivaled the brightness of the sun.
Jonathan was appreciative of the man and his offer… what meant more was the apology… to all that had just occurred. And he watched the man leave… Sitting at the table, he eagerly began to eat his lunch… “Names? Ummm, I believe so, as long as we make two sets… one for a boy, and one for a girl…” then he smiled.
She was happier than she thought she could be then her smile faded "When I am as big as a house.... will you still have that look in your eye as you do now?" she teased him softly.“Big as a house?” he added an odd look and was really teasing her. “I’ll make ya work in the forge, it will sweat the fat off ya…” then he poked her side. “Luv, I shall always have that look in my eye…”
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on Jun 5, 2010 18:07:19 GMT -6
Jonathan had placed his hand on her still flat belly... and she covered his with her own. "I brought you something to eat my love." “Oh good, I was famished…” and he quickly helped her prepare a place for them to dine together. Washing his hands, removing the grime of the day’s work, he straddled the stool and opened the basket and began searching for some meat… Roast duck and a few figs… and better yet… a potato… He saw her pour her cup of herb tea and drink it slowly.
She was more than just grateful for the herb tea for it helped settle her stomach so now she could help him in the smithy. "What do you have for me to work on today?" she said as she began to set out his lunch on a bench she had cleared off. He was so handsome and looked happy... and why not, he was about to be a father. It would be her greatest gift to him yet.
Mouth half full, he smiled and commented on her wanting to help still. “I am glad yu still desire to help me…” spinning the metal gadget around… same as before… set this in the wood frame and set the rivets. The wheel-lock would be set into the wooden pistol frame and secured with soft copper rivets. Leaning to a cabinet, he selected the right size hammer for her. “I will heat the rivets, and set them in the tin… yu will align the holes, use the leather glove, and set them in the hole. Then two or three good raps will set the rivet and when it cools, it will meld to the wood.”
He watched her expression, should any doubt cross her mind… and he smiled when she understood. “I have one hundred done already… fifty to go…” he smiled, thanks to her assistance. He could not take his mind off her… Married to a simple smithy, she did not mind… and she was so beautiful… assumedly petite and frail, but now many knew better… looks could be deceiving… He tried to concentrate on eating… and upon work, but something else seemed to prevail in his mind… and he gave her a seductive smirk.
Eryn was all to happy to help him, it gave her time with him even as he worked; and to her, the faster he was done with work the faster they could have quality time together planning for their child. "Why would I not desire to help you? I may be with child but I am not useless." she teased as she put on the apron that had now become hers. She watched as he showed her what to do and after that she did it.
He looked handsome even covered with sweat... and smudges and she had to smile. "I was thinking that maybe when this job for the King is done I could talk you into carving a cradle for the babe and perhaps a few other furnishings?" she asked as she hammered in the rivets. It was hot within the forge and her cheeks were pink from the heat. After about an hour, she put the hammer down and poured herself some water and a mug for him as well. She pulled a wooden stool over and sat on it as she took a break. She had done a lot this day and hoped when they returned home he would be pleased. There had been a small room off their bedroom that they used for storage... she had cleaned it out... to use for the nursery.
Jonathan wiped the sweat from his brow, the heavy hammer in his hand as he looked at her, he chuckled. “I am an iron bender, nay a carpenter…” and he glanced down at the carved stocks for the pistols. Maybe he was a bit of a carpenter, but a cradle? A smile crossed his facial features as he looked back to her. “I can try… but no guarentees…”
Sitting on the stool, she began to absently rub her yet flat belly and talked softly "Your father works very hard little one to make a better life for us... one day I pray it will not be so."
Most of his day was spent in the forge, that is true, his arm muscles well-toned due to swinging the hammer. But being ambidextrous was a benefit in bending iron… and sword fighting; though Jonathan spent the majority of his time in the forge and with his wife, he always kept his skill in the sword, by practicing at least an hour a day.
During the day, he and Eryn worked diligently on the project for the King… and the evenings reserved for the couple. Day in and day out, the routine was the same… save the occasional extra horse that would come in for shoeing… Some professions were more exciting than what he did, and many were worse… but he was happy...
He would often shoe a horse for a knight just off patrol of the kingdom, and shared in the conversation of what was occurring, but he would usually end the conversation saying that he was pleased not to be dodging a swinging sword, an arrow, or a lance. Those conversations would often bring back days with Lord William, and Jonathan would smile, knowing those days were just a glimpse of a soiled past. IF, and when, he began to yearn for the days of glory, he would just have to look upon his beautiful wife, and know what grew inside her, and the yearnings would dissipate.
Whenever he would enter the house, he would walk up behind Eryn, wrap his arms around her and place his hands upon her yet flat belly and kiss her neck… offering her an unsolicited “I love you…” and he knew his world was filled…
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Feb 24, 2012 6:47:41 GMT -6
( I thought it would be good to back play the pregnancy and birth before moving on with Jon and Eryn's story)
Her days were spent taking lunches to Jonathan and helping him however she was able with creating the weapons he was commissioned to make. However, these days she just sat and watched as her belly was large with child... their child and she could not be happier.
Seth and his wife Maureen had become great friends and she enjoyed seeing them and their son Malcolm on her way to the forge. It took a wee bit longer for her to walk the distance with her growing girth... the child within always active and moving about. Eryn was in her 7th month of pregnancy, it has not always been easy but once the morning sickness passed it was more bearable.
Having just packed up the lunch she had made for her beloved husband, she left their home and made her way slowly to town. The fields were covered with snow though not so much that she could not traverse the terrain on foot normally she would have taken a horse but this far along she thought it best to walk.
One hand gripped the basket and the other gently stroked hr swollen belly and she talked softy outloud to their child. " Your father works hard wee one to make a good life for us.... and he loves us beyond measure" that brought forth a soft kick as if the child were agreeing with her. " Tis cold today and snow has covered the ground.... by end of winter you'll be here in our arms...we cannot wait." she smiled.
It was not long before she arrived in town and made her way slowly towards the forge and her husband who would be hard at work over his latest creation.
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on Feb 25, 2012 1:17:17 GMT -6
The normal shoes for the horse, the common sword of a knight, metal bindings for a trunk or barrel… those were the normalities that the knight-turned-blacksmith would tolerate… To say he did not miss the thrills of combat or the exhilaration that one received from the victories would be a blatant lie. It was more difficult for an warmonger to become a ironbender, than an ironbender to become an warmonger. But one thing could soothe that viciousness… he slammed the heavy hammer upon the fire-softened material, sparks flying about… and that reason walked thru the door of the shop.
He set the hammer down, shoved the reddish-yellow metal piece into the water, and then removed the heavy leather cover, hanging it up. He smiled then shoved his hands into water bucket and washed the grime from his hands, and bent over slightly washing his face. When he rose, there she stood, a towel in her hands, held out for him. He smiled and shook his head like a dog, splattering her with water. Taking the towel she threw at him, he laughed then wiped his face and head with it.
Throwing the towel at her, he captured her in his arms when she dodged the towel. “Wench… why doth my wench enter my castle chambers?” he teased and whispered in her ear as he hugged her from behind, his hands lightly rubbing her stomach. “You still excite me…” as she could feel his erection as he pressed close to her. Next he would speak softly into her ear in paused sentences… “Does the walk nay tire you now, lass? …. Maybe it would be best to retire to your room in preparation of birth?! I hear many women confine themselves for days waiting for the time.”
Each and every time he held her, he would reflect over their short life together… She was a good woman, and becoming a fine cook… and even better yet in the bed… uninhibited and erotic… and soon they would discover how well as a mother she would be… for if her past performance was any standard, she would be a great mother… loving, compassionate, and affectionate. Saying nothing, he just moaned and pulled her tight against him… then he moved the reddish hair and kissed her neck along the material she wore.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Feb 25, 2012 6:33:48 GMT -6
Eryn smiled seeing Jonathan hard at work as always and yet still happy to see her.As he dipped his hands in the water and then his head shaking to splash... tossing the towel in her hands at him she laughed softly, only to have it tossed back by him. "Aye... I am yer wench and I enter to see what ye be up to. Perhaps ye were expecting another??" she teased him softly and began to unpack his lunch and setting it on a table she had cleared. there was a twinkle in her eyes as he spoke of her exciting him still though she felt large as the Castle itself.
" The walk does me good and as for staying confined... we have 2 months yet before our child comes into this world, the healer says I am healthy and strong and the babe is as well and sees no reason for me to lay abed." she stated softly and continued setting out his food.
As he kissed her neck she leaned into him and chuckled " I brought your lunch and thought on my way home I would stop and gather some mushrooms for our dinner." small talk at the moment for his words had filled her mind with images of how she became in her current condition.
Their life had not started so perfectly but it would end thus if she had a say in it. Oh there were time where a past distant memory tickled the back of her mind, a flash of metal in the light... a swift movement, but that was then and she was not the same person now.
After they sat and ate their lunch she once more packed up and cleaned up allowing him to get back to his work... there would be time later for more intimate moments once he was home and bathed. " I shall see you at home later." she spoke from the doorway. Looking back at him over her shoulder her rounded profile filling the small framework. "Don't be late.... and don't worry Malcolm will accompany me for the mushrooms, Seth and Maureen will be there as well for dinner tonight." she enjoyed having their friends come and sup with them.
Having kissed him softly she smiled and left. The walk back was slower, her stomach cramped and she thought it due to perhaps he may be right and she should not push herself so much, but there was still alot to be done to ready for the birth of their first child. Jonathan had built the cradle and rearranged their furnishings to make it easier for her at that time. Maureen was on standby as the midwife and all.
Just as she met up with Malcolm on the path outside of town her stomach was cramping more and more but she paid it no heed for she still had 2 months and the healers and Maureen said she would experience this twinges from time to time.
Deep within the woods where the best mushrooms grew she knelt to pick one with her small knife when a great pain struck causing her to cry out... Malcolm was not to far away and came running " Mistress what is it?" he asked his small chest heaving from his run to her. She was leaning against a large oak holding her swollen belly, looking pale... darkness came fast this time of year. and Eryn was not sure that she would make it out of the woods and home. It was then she felt the rush of warmth cover her legs. " NAY!" she cried out then looked at Malcolm he was only ten and two but he was her only hope right now. " Go..get... Jonathan.....NOW!" she spoke in between pains.
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on Feb 27, 2012 11:27:21 GMT -6
Jonathan chuckled and canted his head as he slammed the hammer down upon the cooled metal… “Aye wench, I be doin’ wot Ah always be doin’… slamming a hammer down… an’ Ah be expectin’ a fine lass tae soothe my urges when Ah be dun…” he smirked, his pretended accent more Gaelic than his usual English… “Naew, if’n yae kin sooth those urges of urgence, then mabbe Ah need nay lass tae dae so…”
He could nothing but laugh at himself regarding the bad showing of his Gaelic Accent… He could never be a bard… which the thought simply made him laugh more. “Maybe I should confine ya moreso, but then I would lose my lunches…” and he laughed again. Was it the heat of the forge, or her own presence that made him giddy as a lad… definitely was not the furnace since he was that way always in her presence? Either way, he enjoyed her company… and lunchtime was always preferred when she came to visit. And he frowned at her revelation of picking mushrooms, but she was set in her ways and preferred what she set her mind to… “Aye lass… just be careful… and be wary of the sun’s position in the forest… You do not want to be caught in it after dark…” It was not Jonathan’s lack of sensibility in what he said, because he knew very well, the woman knew how to protect herself… but it had been almost 2 years since she held a sword in her hand and now, in her condition, he preferred she did not have to…
Unfortunately, lunch was oft too short for his liking, but she had things to accomplish and he had the King’s project to complete. Those new firing mechanisms for the handgonnes were a priority, at least according to Lord Zurban, the King’s WeaponMaster. Lord Dmitrii stopped by every 2 or 3 days… just to see how progress was being made… or at least to chat about children, both of them being new to the facts. “Yes M’Lady, I shant be late… I nay want the lady of the house ta declare my head upon a spike…” then he smirked at her as she gathered the lunchables.
The ring of hammer-to-metal rang out, time after time, as Jonathan prepared the very framework that the new firing mechanisms would be made. It had been difficult making 150 of the frames but he was on the last two… Next would be the tedious filing of each into its ideal form, then the assembly of each one. The days long and the nights short had continued thru the months since accepting the task… maybe he should have hired someone to help him, but they were short on money and he was determined to make the smithy worthwhile… “Swords into plowshares” type attitude.
It was getting close to quitting time this day, for they expected guests for the evening meal… and Jonathan only had this last piece to finish… but finish was too extreme, for the lad of twelve burst in the smithy, near exhaustion. He bent over unable to speak… and Jonathan knew something was wrong. He approached the lad, one hand upon his back. “What is it Lad? Is M’Lady alright…”
… and the boy shook his head… “She… She’s bl…din’ bad…” he panted out in broken words… Jonathan set the hot iron down and grabbed a sword and his cloak from the hook, as the boy regained his composure and they set out to find Eryn…
All the way, Jonathan was thinking the worst and hoping for the best… but deep in his gut, he held a fear…but spoke no words…
Meanwhile, back at the forge… the fire roared in the furnace, caused from the wind that had blown open a door… and as if by nature’s calling, the once orange-glowed piece of metal that had not cooled completely lay where Jonathan had put it, on the storage rack for cooling… but the unthinkable wind freakishly blew thru the open door, causing a ghostly chill inside… By some unspeakable force, the hot iron and its holder fell from the rack… its searing metal falling into a shirt that Jonathan wore the day before…
Within seconds, the shirt burst into flames… which ignited wooden chairs and material inside the forge… within minutes, the entire building was aflame… the smoke billowing into the air… and Jonathan and Malcolm disappeared into the forest looking for Eryn….
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Feb 28, 2012 6:49:21 GMT -6
Eryn was deep within the shadows of the forest and the pains were coming quicker and increasing in their strength. All she could do was try and remain calm as Malcolm went for Jonathan.
With each painful grip across her swollen belly she breathed in deeply hands gripped her skirts, sweat glistened on her forehead... she wanted to scream and yet remained silent through them. To soon! she kept thinking and prayed nothing was wrong with the child fighting to enter this world even if early.
She knew in her heart Jonathan would be here and ll would be well.... or at least that is what she told herself to keep from worrying.She closed her yes and tried to envision their child... would he or she look like him or her? Before she knew it she was panting hard with the pain.... would her beloved husband find her?? She was scared no for herself but for their babe... the woods held dangers as night approached... and the sun was setting quickly.
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on Mar 4, 2012 9:22:53 GMT -6
How could he help his wife? She was bleeding out, and he had to find her… then the physician had to be summoned, and to arrive safely… but it was only Malcolm who knew where Eryn was… and he had to show Jonathan where she was… as they ran to the forest, and entered the treed area upon a known path into it, his stomach ran afoul at the thought of all they had been thru, yet another challenge they must conquer… Had they atoned for their pasts, or must they pay further with the lives of their offspring?
As Malcolm pointed beyond, and Jonathan ran to the side of his beloved wife, the fire at the Iron Maiden Forge burned hot, for none could even attempt to douse the fire… Surely, all would be lost… Unbeknownst at why occurred back in Turas Lan, Jonathan commanded Malcolm to go now for the doctor… and as the lad of ten and two rushed off toward the city, “Oh my God… watch over her…” as he frantically tried to do something… anything… then Jonathan picked up his wife, her dress stained red from the bleeding, which transferred to Jonathan, and he made headway for the city… “Yu shall be alright M’Love…” continuing to console her… “I swear it…”
The tears and screams of pain he endured as he carried her toward the hospital of Medical Guild damned near crushed his heart, but the love of his treasured Eryn kept his strength far longer than anyone could think possible… and even, he paid no attention to the yelling and commotion far to the north of the city, unbeknownst as their forge burned to the ground…
At the stairs of the hospital, Jonathan stumbled, his knee crashing against the stone, his strong arms upheld their stance as his elbows protected her from the stairs… Alas, he could go no further… and he laid her upon the white limestone steps that were stained with a pinkish color… Thru his mind came thoughts of failure and he tried to stand with her in his arms, but he could not… and mere moments later three men and two women were hustling Eryn up the stairs and inside the building…
Not far behind, Jonathan, escorted by Malcolm, supported by an unknown male made their way up the stairs… the pain in his knee causing him to limp greatly and leaning heavily upon the unknown male.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Mar 25, 2012 6:30:57 GMT -6
Never had she been so grateful to see her beloved husband than she was as he came rushing towards her." Jonathan.... the bairn.... I.... so.... sorry." she hiccup as she cried. So long had they waited to have a child and now this... what more did they have to go through?? A haunted look filled her eyes even as Jonathan lifted her into is strong arms and whispered words of love to her .... her heart beat was thumping wildly within her breast her hands lay protectively on her greatly swollen belly. Fear once more took root in her as she feared loosing their babe and possibly him if that happened. For had he not said she should take it easy and rest more? Had she listened not really and now this would be her punishment!
Jonathan had hurriedly carried her back to town and straight to the healing hall where the physicians resided... she had been taken from him as he collapsed. Her dress was soaked with blood and she felt lightheaded... once more she was lifted into arms her head turned slightly as she looked at her husband exhausted from running to town carrying her " Jonathan!!" she cried out and reached for him. She was being rushed up the stairs away from him and within her a strange war began for that of her babe and the need to stay with Jonathan.
She was laid upon a bed as the attendants began removing her clothing and issuing orders for what needed tot be done... a great pain took hold in her womb and she cried out from its strength. Eryn had no clue about the forge and in truth if she had it would be the least of her problems.... " Save our babe..... at any cost. The babe is your priority !' she found her voice sounding weak yet her command was not. Jonathan's child was to be saved no matter what.
|
|
|
Post by Men of Skye on Mar 27, 2012 11:20:07 GMT -6
Hours past, and the man that trained all his life to serve his Lord and Master as a knight, now stood outside the physician’s area of the hospital as a man waiting word of his wife and newborn child… a man who now bent steel for a living, instead of using steel to strip men of their lives… It was he that the old adage… “Turning swords into plowshares…” befit most of all. T’was the love of a woman that turned this killer, this knight upon a battlefield, to change his way… and would it be the child to die, that he and his wife, the former assassin, would live to regret? Were they to spend the rest of their lives paying for their sins…? Jonathan would pace back and forth, to and fro, hoping to hear a babe’s cry, or the physician coming to meet him and congratulate him as a new father… All the while, his mind reflected upon good times and bad as he attempted to decipher fate.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Mar 27, 2012 11:23:42 GMT -6
Hours past, and the man that trained all his life to serve his Lord and Master as a knight, now stood outside the physician’s area of the hospital as a man waiting word of his wife and newborn child… a man who now bent steel for a living, instead of using steel to strip men of their lives… It was he that the old adage… “Turning swords into plowshares…” befit most of all. T’was the love of a woman that turned this killer, this knight upon a battlefield, to change his way… and would it be the child to die, that he and his wife, the former assassin, would live to regret? Were they to spend the rest of their lives paying for their sins…?
Jonathan would pace back and forth, to and fro, hoping to hear a babe’s cry, or the physician coming to meet him and congratulate him as a new father… All the while, his mind reflected upon good times and bad as he attempted to decipher fate.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Apr 7, 2012 14:38:10 GMT -6
As Eryn labored to bring forth her babe into the world.. physicians and nurses helping her to accomplish this task. Her face covered in sweat, her body feeling as if it were being torn apart from inside out. Just when she began to feel like she couldn't go on... she heard a faint wail... then a voice proclaiming the babe born. She collapsed back into the mountain of pillows behind her.. though weak from blood loss and the effort put forth birthing the child... she let her tears fall down her cheeks. " Please get my husband... Jonathan." her voice soft as joy lit her face. A nurse bobbed her head and turned for the door and once she had opened it she saw Jonathan pacing " M'Lord... your babe is here and both are fine... yer Lady wife is asking fer ye... hurry" the nurse looked pleased as she stepped back and made room for him to pass as he entered. As he came into the room he would see her leaning back against pillows smiling as brightly as the sun with tears streaking down her face as she cooed softly to the swaddled form in her arms. Eryn looked up from their babe and smiled" Come Jonathan and greet your....son."
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Apr 12, 2012 22:26:57 GMT -6
He had been thrust into a strange new world… and what would this world be like? Surely it would be far different than the one previous had been. No longer did he serve a Master, a Lord… but he served a more righteous path as a husband and father… the child would not the heir to great fortunes, or lands, but a simple inheritance of an iron-bender. Would she grow up to marry a king, or a pauper? Or would it be a “he”, one to grow into a man of stature… or a highwayman, if he did teach the right and chivalrous…?? Ah yes, the strange new world? A new world? Oddly enough, despite warnings of the older historians and scholars, King Adam had financed several missions to the west, seeking shorter routes to the Far East. Would they find what they sought, or would they confirm Valkryian rumors of routes to a new land in the west??
To and fro the medical people wandered… in and out of her room… some clean carrying bloody towels, others covered in blood desiring a change of clothes… So much blood?? Twas a scene from a battle with so much red stain… And yet, his heart hastened with every emergence of a body… afraid that he would be told of death instead of life… Is this what made childbirth all more worth the wait? It was recognizable that Mother and child were always closer because of the birthing… and yet no man could understand the reasoning… pain was pain was it not? A man could withstand much pain… or so they were taught… but one glimpse of his wife’s face during the birthing and he became wheezy and lightheaded and was forced from the room by the midwife. He was a man !! Could he not bear such pain? Jonathan simply shook his head at the thoughts. And his expression totally changed as the nurse approached… his brain preparing his heart for bad news… It had taken so long.
Your babe is here and both are fine “God be praised…” was all he said when the nurse spoke to him. Willingly, Jonathan made a straight line for his wife… a bundle of material and a wrinkled face protruding from it… Only nodding, with a swift ‘thanks’ to the nurse-wife as he entered… His eyes veered betwixt her and the skin in the blanket…
“Our Son???” he exclaimed. His eyes closed and his head slowly bowed toward his chest… his hands making the sign of the Trinity… then he looked at her and bent down, kissing her forehead.
Religion? Oh he was taught such as he grew into knighthood… it was part of the training… but as he aged, he practiced not what would become a nuisance… until recently… When life altered for him and Eryn… his and her transformation from ruthless killing machines to husband and wife… and now transformed into Father and Mother… He smirked and his eyes begged for his son… With a nod from the mother, he took his son in his arms, and entered into the street… holding him on high… “A SON !!! I HAVE A SON!!!”
The people around him congratulated him, patting him on his back, as he cradled his son in his arms. Jonathan smiled at the people, and in the distance he saw black smoke… but paid it no mind…
On the far side of the market, it was mass disorder. The Iron Maiden Forge was engulfed in a ferocious field of flames.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Apr 20, 2012 16:40:57 GMT -6
Though she was exhausted and tired from delivering their son she was so happy as well especially as she looked up at her husbands face as he caefully took their child into his arms.
"Aye a son....what name will you give him Jonathan?" she asked in a soft voice smiling brightly. Watching as Jonathan held him gently... those hands forged hot molten steel into weapons and yet holding the babe their were genlt and loving.
She covered her mouth as she yawned behind her hand just as Jonathan took their son and left to announce to all within range of his voice that he had a son!! Having spent hours delvering their son she had no idea the fire burning the forge where Jonathan spent his days providing a living for them.
Deciding her husband was going to be showing off their son a bit longer she closed her eyes to rest... a soft smile curving her lips. Who would have thought she would be a wife... and a mother...her prior life gone as was 'Anwen Maubrey' now all that remained was Eryn Verigs.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on May 5, 2012 2:50:47 GMT -6
Having paraded his son around the area, he returned the babe to his Mother’s arms… And as he laid the babe safely down, he looked to his beloved wife… “Thank you my dearest…” and she asked about the name… “Name? Oh my God… I never even though of it…” and he began to laugh lightly.
Standing over her, he smiled seeing how happy she was. They had been thru hell and their lives had changed forever… He leaned down, saying nothing, then caressed the baby’s face… then hers, and toyed with her red hair, and smiled bright.
Just then, a knock on the door, and a man covered in dark soot stood at the door. He waved his hand to Eryn and smiled, then took Jonathan by the arm as he made his way to the man, and they both disappeared into the other room. In the other room Jonathan and the man stood in the corner as other people visiting and giving Eryn well-wishes. “MiLord… th’ Iron Maid’n…” and he bowed his head and sighed.
“What is it Andrew… something wrong?” as he took the man’s arm. The man glanced up slowly… “Aye MiLord… Th’ forge ‘as burned ta th’e groond…”
Jonathan staggered a bit, the man grabbing his arm, then Jonathan plopped into a nearby chair… his hands going to his face trying to visualize what the man just said. Looking up Jonathan spoke softly… “Completely gone? How?” Jonathan’s stomach was doing flipflops… and the man began to tell the story as far as he knew… Jonathan could only shake his head.
Once he got his senses back together, he rose from the chair and moved to Eryn’s door, leaning in. “M’Love, I must go back to the forge… something has come up… we can speak later about the baby’s name…” he smiled, told her he loved her, and turned to accompany Andrew back to the forge…
The two men left the infirmary and headed back thru the city to the forge… There, at the sight of the fire’s carnage, lay burned timbers, charred metal objects, some recognizable, others beyond help… The fire had been extinguished and all that remained were burning embers, the stench of fire, and charred metal objects. Jonathan, gingerly, began to sift thru various objects and burned cabinets… his hope failing quickly on the project he had been working. The fire had burned so hot, some of the firing mechanisms that he had been working were damaged beyond repair and would have to be redone completely. Others were merely charred and could be cleaned and put into use.
By the time he had found all the mechanisms in the project, he had less than 30% of the ones previously completed… all the long days and nights’ work up in smoke. All he had to show for it was a burned out forge and whelps on his hands from the heat. Plopping down on the burned out wall, he looked to Andrew… “I will return later… I must go see Eryn…” and his faltered as he pondered his situation.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on May 8, 2012 5:46:07 GMT -6
Eryn smiled Jonathan looked so happy holding their son... and then looked confused when she mentioned what name they should give him, but before she could say anything a man came to the room... and having her husband hand her back the babe she smiled.
What could be so important to come here... now? she thought to herself. She began to nurse her son.. when Jonathan poked his head in and said he would be back.
Eryn was a bit upset but did her best to hide the fact that Jonathan was going to the forge at this hour and so soon after she had given birth. Without looking at him " The forge?? Alright husband we shall speak later." softly said fighting back tears. She knew his job at the forge was important to him and is how he made a living for them... but she had just given him a son and did that not mean as much?
What felt like hours had passed and with each one she grew more and more tired. The attendants cam and changed the swaddling on her son and once both were 'tucked in' she fell asleep peacefully with her child in her arms.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on May 12, 2012 0:04:17 GMT -6
Prometheus stole fire from the gods for the benefit of mankind. He was a trickster and his intellectual side was emphasized by the apparent meaning of his name, "Freethinker". Men must toil for their living because the gods have "hidden livelihood" from men due to Prometheus deceiving Zeus. The king of the gods did not intend that men should have fire but Prometheus stole it for them from Hellion anyway. Prometheus' theft of fire brought with it the working of metals… which meant weapons, and weapons meant violence and greed. Though Prometheus' gift brought civilization, it was a "heroic" civilization with Pandora’s jar full of evil and toil and disease, serving to express both the attractiveness and the ultimate hopelessness of civilization. By sending Pandora "as the price of fire" the gods "hid livelihood". Fire and civilization had ended by blighting both men and nature. They will live again in freedom In the garden of the Lord. They will walk behind the ploughshare, They will put away the sword. The chain will be broken And all men will have their reward. Those words echoed in his mind as he sat wearily against the stone wall. The heat remaining embers of the forge reminding him of what had occurred. Maybe he could sell the remaining firing mechanisms to the King...?? But would it be enough to get them thru the winter? He slowly rose to his feet… It was getting dark and he needed to see Eryn… Rumors of the fire spread as fast as fire itself. Prometheus would be proud of such flames… and such rumors of the inferno soon reached the Infirmary far quicker than Jonathan… and the whispers would surely get to his beloved wife. Soot covered men, some burned seriously, some not so serious had been filtering into the Infirmary since the fire began. Now that it was extinguished, the patients would soon diminish… and Jon returned to his beloved Eryn… smelling of soot and clothes covered in ash.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on May 29, 2012 5:09:50 GMT -6
Eryn and her babe slept unaware of all that was occurring at the forge. Hours went by and the sweet embrace of sleep held them both in gentle arms of darkness.
No longer did she 'shift' between her former self and who she was now... was the past truly in her past??
Night was fully upon them when the faint smell of smoke tickled her nostrils.. slowly waking her from her slumber. She looked down at the small baby boy in her arms and smiled... their son still slept. Her eyes went to the chair at her bedside and she saw Jonathan sitting their watching them... he was covered in ash and soot and instantly panic hit her like a fist.
" Jonathan??" her voice just above a whisper as to not wake the babe. Eryn slowly started to move to be able to go to him. " What is it.... What's wrong?" her stomach tightened in knots for he looked so distraught and knew not why?
Finally laying the babe in the bed nestled safely within a blanket. she walked slowly to where he sat and she herself sat on the edge of the bed taking his soot covered hand in hers... worry fluttering in her green eyes. Unable to say more she waited for him to speak.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Jun 1, 2012 10:18:44 GMT -6
“Ah, lives of men! When prosperous they glitter - Like a fair picture; when misfortune comes - A wet sponge at one blow has blurred the painting.” Despondent, Jonathan sat in the chair, his head upon his hands… He did not hear her when she approached, and took his dirtied hand in hers. Twas only then that the master metal worker looked up. “It’s all gone… Burned to the ground…” and he saw the odd look upon her face. But how could she know? “The forge… it burned down… I have less than 28 firing mechanisms… and the King contracted for 150…” he just shook his head. “I owe more than I could ever make…”He knew one way to make money, but that would lead them back to the dark side of life… down a path neither could afford… especially now… He looked to his son, then to her. “The materials I bought cost more than the 28 mechanisms…” he crooked his neck to work out a kink, and he looked to her, his eyes moving side to side looking at her… Her beauty amazed him, even now shortly after childbirth, her red hair still matted upon her brow from sweat of birthing… her strength astonished him… no man could withstand the pain of bearing a child into the world… God chose well, when he blessed Eve with the task of bearing children… Now he had to be strong for her… He pulled her hand to his lips and kissed the back… then lay a dirtied cheek in the palm… “I love thee Eryn…”Then into her palm, he muttered names of fire in the various languages and dialects… “Aiden… Blaise… Kenneth… Brynton… Kelos…”
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Jun 10, 2012 6:44:35 GMT -6
Eryn sat and listened to him as he told her that the forge was gone... burned to the ground. She gasped knowing how much he loved working there .... it gave him a purpose and made him feel good to be contributing his skills. " Oh my love ..I am so sorry..." she whispered sincerely as tears fell down her cheeks.
A flicker of a distant memory formed... swords clashing... money exchanging hands... blood covering hers. She squeezed her eyes shut blocking out any more for that was path she would not go down again. " Jonathan .... we'll figure this out... find a way... we always have." she kissed his hands.
He bent his head and raised her hands and kissed the backs of them before laying his head in her palms... names came from him... softly just after he had looked at their son. She smiled softly. " Blaise Jonathan Verigs.... after his noble father and the flames he produced while working. Our son born from love and flames." she said matter of factly. Sitting there a few minutes longer she turned and lifted their sleeping son and turning back to Jonathan held him out .... "Hold your son Blaise my love and let him help soothe the worries for a wee bit... tomorrow we can figure out what to do about the forge... I love thee as well husband... never forget that." she leaned in a kissed his lips softly.
All she had said was true they would figure out what to do...even if she had to work or revert back to the past and become Anwen once more she would if it meant helping her beloved husband. Though she had worked hard to seperate herself from that horrible past.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Jun 17, 2012 11:02:15 GMT -6
Jonathan listened to her attempting to console him… but nothing seemed to help… until…
The child was now cleaned and wrapped in swaddling clothes… and gently placed in his hands. He looked down upon the newborn… and it was the gaze of something new… not that he had seen newborns… but one of his own blood… and he looked to Eryn and smiled… “Blaise… You come at such a time that we need renewed hope…” then he chuckled and kissed his forehead. “And such a name as a legacy…”
Could their lives... and the love… withstand the resurrection of remnants… or the renewal of the old??
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Jun 30, 2012 5:10:15 GMT -6
Though her heart was saddened for the loss of the forge her son in her husband's arms filled her with love and joy. " Jonathan Blaise shall be our hope and a symbol of our love... his name is a legacy one that bards will sing about as they did with Gods of old." her voice though soft was strong with the truth of her words.
Eryn sat and watched Jonathan just hold their small son... love shinning with in his eyes making him glow. Within her own emerald hues something glistened though only for a second... something dark and sinister. Something that wanted free and in time perhaps it would be again... only this time to help her beloved husband and newborn son.
She fought to keep the darkness at bay and just live in the light surrounded by Jonathan's love and now the love for Blaise..." Jonathan I will do whatever I can to help you rebuild even if it means...." she let her words trail off not wanting to spoil this precious time with the two people she loved most.
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Jul 1, 2012 9:15:28 GMT -6
Jonathan looked at the newborn baby. God, babies were ugly and wrinkly… even his own. Then he looked at Eryn with a smile, knowing she too had once been wrinkly and ugly. But they were his… His to hold dear, protect, and provide for… Pulling the babe closer to his lips, he kissed the baby’s cheek… then he took the soot from his arm, and made the sign of the cross with his finger upon the babe’s forehead with the black powder.
His to hold dear, protect, and provide for…!!?? Well two out of three was not bad… He could, and would hold them dear… and he was aptly able to protect them… but now, providing for would be a bit more difficult… at least honorably. The Gaelic Nations were not at war… the troubles in Sleet had waned… and he wondered if he would even be accepted as a knight in King Adam’s army… he had fought against Adam’s army under Lord Maubrey… but that was years ago… Jonathan did not desire to push his luck, as luck had been stringent to say the least…
When Eryn spoke, he cokeed his head as she broke off her sentence. Standing, handing the baby back to her… he encroached the bed and lay down next to her. “Even if it means what??” He twisted his lips knowing exactly what she meant. “We have a good life… a fantastic family… and I dunnae wish to lose any of it…” he smiled, his arm positioned to caress her and the babe.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Jul 6, 2012 5:08:52 GMT -6
Eryn took Blaise from Jonathan and nestled him close to her and started to feed him. " I meant I could find a means of work... or perhaps ask if Kae would have a place for me with her rangers... or she may know of someone who needs a woman to look after their children while they work." her voice was soft she had not missed that look in his eye.
" We do have a good life... and you shall not loose it... I just want to help get us back on our feet." she swallowed. " I love you Jonathan and our son.... I have worked to hard to get beyond my past life... however I did gain some useful skills... it was but a thought."
|
|
|
Post by Jonathan Verigs on Jul 11, 2012 2:17:23 GMT -6
A Warrior's Bedevilment Idle warriors are a danger to all those around them. Unbeknownst to any until it is too late, the idle warrior may take up warfare again as a means of protest, survival, or delinquency, sometimes constituting powerful armed bands. Once regarded as heroes, warriors often find themselves treated as troublesome reminders of a traumatic past. Sometimes, when they return to their families, they are humiliated and persecuted. They begin to see themselves as misused, the mechanical implementers of others’ decisions. Jonathan is a man, who embodies the ideals of a warrior. He volunteered for service to his Lord, and fought bravely for what he believed was right; He served the King in the fights for freedom. Now he is a family man, supporting his wife and new child, with just an ironworker's profit. But fate would deem him a different path… The forge destroyed by forces unknown. And the last leg was now kicked from beneath him… with his beloved wife, offering herself and her deadly skills, to supplement the losses they now endure. His eyes wavered from the babe to his wife… and he stood slowly, his demeanor changing slowly, as if she had stabbed his ego. “You stay your skills at home… suckle the babe… He needs you now… let me do what must be done…” he said softly, but with a tint of frustration. She was beautiful… her battle scars now time-healed… she was physically fit, even after a difficult delivery of their first child… and now she wanted to work? Why not just cut his testicles from his body? Silently, he would turn from her, and make his way to the door.
|
|
|
Post by Dame Kaelyn Urquhart-Raven on Jul 16, 2012 5:59:23 GMT -6
She could sense he was upset, but yet not really sure as to the why?? All she wanted was to help... she had not meant to imply in some way that he was less a man by what she offered.
When he spoke to her she flinched slightly for his anger was there in his eyes. Suckle the babe?? Stay at home?? is this what their marriage had come to?? Her the ever dutiful wife and now mother and him the money maker??
She hated fighting with him and as he stood and turned to leave her own emotions took over " Jonathan... I am not sure as to why you are so mad... I only offered to help?? If you cannot see that..." her words trailed off. She had never felt so damn helpless.
" I will do as you bid husband... I will tend your home and suckle our son... you do what you need to do." she cradled Blaise in her arms and turned over with her back to him and closed he eyes... though her heart ached for all Jonathan had lost this night.
|
|