Post by tiberius on Jan 24, 2009 16:07:53 GMT -6
Nairne: That sound, a knock upon the door, made the woman seated on the windowseat jump. Nairne did not look her normal presentable self. Sable hair was mussed, tossed up wildly in a sloppy bun, and there were dark circles under her indigo eyes. She hadn't been sleeping too well since the attack of the wolfman and her nights were filled with tossing, and turning, that left her feeling more exhausted upon waking. Staring out the window at the snow-covered streets, she was wearing a simple nightdress with a robe, and thinking when Tibby's voice came. "You can come inside." Soft words, the flash of a smile given when he'd enter, and she'd murmur,"How are you this day?" In her lap rested her arm, held against her chest by a makeshift sling- fashioned from some silk and lace, an old gown, that one of the girls had made for her.
Tiberius: *He moved into the room, a brilliant smile on his lips as he moved into her room proper. He licked his lips, closing the door behind him. Deep blues raked over her form, a small frown touching his features.* I am.. a little sore still, but on the mend.. *He licked his lips again.* Do you have a brush, Nairne? I would love to brush your hair out if you would let me..
Nairne: "That is well. I have heard that you spoke to Shaden?" Gerda had let that little tidbit slip, but had not said more. The housekeeper brought up food and drink to constantly keep Nairne at least eating. His question brought a bit of a teasing light into her indigo gaze,"Have you ever known a woman not to own a brush?" Nodding her head toward a stand, she smiled softly and leaned her forehead against the chill glass of the window. "Have...there been anymore attacks?" Nairne was concerned. So many people walked the streets unaware of the danger.
Tiberius: *He grinned sheepishly, moving to slip his boots off, setting them neatly aside. He would move toward the stand where her brush was, taking it up. His voice soft* I have not heard of any more attacks, but I have been mending and resting largely.. I did try to social but my body was not cooperating... I had to retire early. *He licked his lips* How are you? Still feeling poorly? *He would slip to stand behind her as she sat in the window. The brush set on the sill, he would begin to undo her bun with gentle touch. He would begin to comb her hair ever so delicately. It was obvious that he had been in this position before. Being the comber.*
Nairne: Nodding slowly, she adjusted for him to be able to sit on the seat as well. Sitting between his legs, letting her back rest against his chest, Nairne smiled softly as he began brushing her hair out. "I apologize for not being social myself. I have been...tired. Did Shaden give you work?" She was curious about that. If not, where would Tibby go to find it?
Tiberius: *He would settle in behind her, a soft content sigh as she settled against his chest. He would tend to her hair delicate and tender.* Yes.. Mistress Aramoire was quite kind.. I will tend the bar and keep the house in general.. *He did half of her hair, then the other, meticulous and careful.*
Nairne: A sigh of relief was breathed, easily misinterpreted as one of pleasure at the brushing, and Nairne murmured,"That is good. Gerda will love you dearly." Everyone knew how the woman was about tending the bar. "How is everyone else?" She knew that not many had been told of the attack. Only Moira and Shaden, and those necessary, would have been told. She would keep it as quiet as possible.
Tiberius: Truth be told, I have not been on my feet longer than to have spoken to Moira and Mistress Aramoire.. I have not had the stamina or perhaps the frame of mind to be social.. *He combed her hair down to lay over her shoulders, the brush set on the sill once more.* There.. Better?
Nairne: Reaching out her good left hand, Nairne gently took his injured arm to peruse it. "It seems to be healing well though. Are the others?" Nairne had spent her last two evenings in bed alone, not including the night at the Briar when they'd again shared a bed- cuddling only- and had missed the company. It would not do though for the other girl's to think him a client or for Shaden to think he was getting claim to something without charge. Once the hair was brushed out, she smiled softly, and kissed his cheek,"Much better." There was a weariness to her features and her smile held notes of exhaustion.
Tiberius: *He winced, but only a little as she surveyed his arm. A tender smile touching his lips at her kiss to his cheek. He blushed, horridly.* Everything is healing.. moving about is ... not exactly fun yet but, I will be fine within a week or so. I am just a touch stiff in this arm.. *Moving his left arm to offer what was hurting as example, but he was not 100% stiff. He loosely wrapped his right arm about her waist, pulling her gently back into the line of his chest.* Is it wrong to admit... I will hate staying so far from you as I have since the night at the Briar?..
Nairne: "Where will you stay?" A simple question. She relaxed against him, watching him from over her shoulder. It was not wrong to admit. "I do not like the idea of you staying far from me either..." Yet, it could not really be any other way. Sighing softly, Nairne murmured,"Perhaps, when we are both feeling a bit better, I will take you on that tour I promised. I will not throw you into anymore danger though."
Tiberius: The danger is welcome.. it earned me one more night with you in my arms.. *He tipped his head, nuzzling his nose into the curve of her neck where it met her shoulder, breathing in her sweet scent ever so deep. He exhaled slow* But I am to bunk with Albert in the gatehouse.. No longer taking up a guest room.. I figured sooner was better than later to get over there... I would not wish to put Mistress Aramoire out.. *His hand stroked her stomach feather light, reveling in the small stolen moment of her in his arms once more.*
Nairne: "Oh, when you put it that way...perhaps I should push you into the path more often?" Grinning up at him, a teasing light in her indigo gaze, she sighed softly at his nuzzling. The man was sweet. Listening to his explanation of his new sleeping quarters, Nairne snuggled closer. Indeed he would be put far from her. Though, not intentionally. Shaden had no idea of the confusing feelings caused by this man. "Well, at least you are still close."
Tiberius: I will be about, yes.. Serving drinks at night.. and.. Available to escort you on your dayside rides.. So that you are not left to those who would prey on you.. *His voice grew softer as he murmured his words against her neck* I partially blame myself for not having risen earlier that day.. I should have been with you.. *His regret painted against supple flesh, he allowed the confession to linger there, stroking her tummy idly.*
Nairne: Such a casual, innocent motion, the act of his fingers stroking her stomach through her nightdress, and yet it evoked such non-innocent feelings. Nairne shivered in reaction, but was thankful for the timing. If Tibby was as innocent then he'd suspect it'd been in memory of the attack. Nibbling on her bottom lip, she lifted her left hand, to brush fingers against his cheek,"Do not berate yourself. You came in time to save me. We could not know what would happen. I had not been attacked before."
Tiberius: I can hope that you will never be attacked again. At least, not while I am about. I cannot help but feel... Partially responsible for the attack. *He continued his stroke, not realizing that there was anything wrong with the small touch. He spoke quietly* Are you cold, Nairne? Do you want a blanket? Do I need to be closer? *He smiled gently, pressing a feather light kiss to the pulse racing beneath her flesh.*
Nairne: Closer? Did he not realize that was why she'd shivered? Shaking her head, realizing that Tibby did not know, Nairne let her indigo gaze look out the window. It was the touch of lips to the tender flesh at her throat that made her shiver again though. Laughing softly, she murmured,"I am not cold, Tibby. Not in the least. Though if you keep doing that we may end up under the blankets." A very blunt answer. Nairne was what she was.
Tiberius: If I?.. Oh...Oh! *his face flushed.* Forgive me.. I should stop, yes? *He chuckled quietly an kissed the small fold of her neck again, drawing back to stroke her tummy.* You know.. *His hand stilling, simply resting at her back* Do.. Courtesan's... How do you court a courtesan?
Nairne: Giggling softly, she whispered,"I do not wish you to...though perhaps it is for the best." Nodding softly, Nairne considered that. It would be. They had to move slowly. She did not need to fall for him fast. Her heart was still something she aimed to protect. His question had a brow arching though, smile dimming a bit,"I...honestly do not know. I never considered it..." How did one court a Courtesan? A woman in her line of work did not allow themselves to have time to dally with lovers, or admirers, beyond those that paid coin.
Tiberius: Do you have time to yourself or is your every minute devoted to the household and your part within it? *He did stroke a slow strum against her tummy, though it was feather light and hardly enough pressure to be called a touch.* Is it possible to steal time to have our morning rides? The tour you offered? Is there no one in the manse such as Mistress Aramoire? Surely she has ... someone who is the father to the child.. *Muscled pink slipped to moisten plush tiers.* Or am I being a silly boy? I suppose.. What I mean to ask.. is if I wanted to know more of you, would my attention be unwanted?
Nairne: "If there be a Father, I do not know it. Though do not think that a tragedy. Mistress Aramoire is a woman who can take care of herself and will raise the child capably by herself. She has much love and wisdom to share." Nairne knew that Shaden was a woman of many pieces and yet she would make a wonderful Mother to the child held within her womb. As Tibby went on, Nairne allowed his light touch to lull her into relaxation, body slumping more against his and eyes focused on the snow falling slowly outside the window. "It is welcome, Tibby, more so than I can express. That, in a way, frightens me...." Nairne did not even think of what she uttered, just continued,"There will be time for morning rides and a tour. As for more than that...I do not know..." Would she have to approach Shaden on the matter? Perhaps. Yet, that worried her. What happened to a Courtesan who was being courted by a man...and not bought?
Tiberius: I would not... go away, you know, if it was a matter of .. waiting.. I cannot claim that this.. all of this will go somewhere that would be worth waiting for all eternity.. Right now it is all new and intoxicating.. but.. I have hope right now this is more than a passing affection.. I feel.. all tingly iside and it is the most wonderful feeling.. I don't want this to stop.. *He kept that light stroking up.* I want to know about your life.. What growing up was like for you... Why you are here.. Where you want to be eventually.. Where your dreams will take you if nothing binds you.. Everything that is important in your life.. *He raised his hand from her tummy and laid it lightly over her chest.* In your heart..
Nairne: What he wanted, was so much. Nairne felt her heart begin to race inside her chest. She didn't want to broach the subject of her growing up, of being trained for a future that was loathsome and painful. As to why she was here? He knew it, quite simply. Well, kind of. Feeling suddenly panicky, she wiggled from his arms and rose to her feet, careful not to jar her arm. "Tibby, I...there's much you don't understand about me. I-I like this feeling...as much as you do...but...what you ask..." Shaking her head, she gave a semblance of a smile,"It is something I cannot yet give. What I told you before, about that man, was a carefully guarded secret...my whole life has been...and I'm not ready to air them all." Nairne didn't know if she'd ever be able to. She could not even imagine telling him of her bloodline, of where she'd truly come from, and that was her biggest.
Tiberius: *She slipped from him and lower lip was instantly drawn into his mouth, his gaze lowering to the place she vacated, pinched between his teeth. He'd misstepped, misspoke. This was not some pain easily passed over, and he... God help him. He didn't know how to do these things. He tempted fate, opening his craw to speak cautiously.* My apologies, Nairne. I did not wish to stir something so painful.. I will not ask again. I'm.. I'm sorry. I just.. I want to share everything of myself, my past, my ... everything. *He risked a side glance towards her, deep blues seeking indigo.* I forget because my life is an open book, yours does not necessarily have to be as well.. I respect your wishes, milaya moya. Please, do not withdraw.
Nairne: Pacing back and forth, slowly, she listened to his words while nibbling on her lip. Nairne could have blown up at him, prying that way, whether unwittingly or not, and she had not. That was amazing in itself. Yet, it signified much as well. Just how much did he mean to her already? How far had she let herself fall? Damn! Cursing silently, she sighed, and caught his words with a curious look upon her face,"What...what does that mean?" It was a language that Nairne had heard before, but one that she did not know. Eventually, it was likely, Shaden would have it taught to the Courtesans as part of their lessons. For now though, she'd leave it to him to tell her. Indigo eyes observed him, standing still, body not moving any closer. She was wary now, not of him...but of herself.
Tiberius: Milaya moya? It means... my sweet in Russian. *Deep blues peered quietly, observant. she didn't seem completely.. upset, but she was nervous or worried with her pacing. He shifted, moving his leg that straddled the bench by the window, turning towards her.* Nairne.. Really.. It's okay..
Nairne: Nodding her head, Nairne smiled a bit softer,"It is...pretty." She didn't know what to think of it. Of this. Indigo eyes lowered to the floor thoughtfully until he spoke again. Lifting her head, she sighed,"Is it? You asked...only a few questions...and I cannot even manage that. You wish to court me and I do not know if that is even allowed. And on top of that...why? Men buy my body, my company, and use both as they please. In return...I get coin. What kind of woman does that make me? I told Moira that a Courtesan is better than a common whore. Yet, are we? We are educated better, yes, but in essence we still do the same in our work..."
Tiberius: *His brow knit.* My mother.. Her.. ideals were not that of my father.. My mother was not of noble blood.. It is why I do not have uncles and cousins to have fallen back upon.. It is because my mother was... Well she was a Gyspy.. our family would call her Rroma, but gypsy is what the "gage", non-rroma call her people.. my people.. I do not... have typical beliefs of what is right and what is not.. It is part of what you are.. who you are.. Who am I to judge? You take care of your body, your mind. You are better than a ... common whore in my opinion.
Nairne: "Gypsy..." She'd heard of them. Though not really encountered many besides those observed in the streets of Turas Lan. There was absolutely nothing wrong with that heritage, and he would see that Nairne had no issue or prejudice by the smooth lines of her fair face. Yet, she could not understand fully. "I take care of my mind, my body, but what of my soul? I toss it into the pits. God will not welcome me, a woman of such disgrace, into Heaven. He will toss me into Hell, into the arms of the Devil, as he did that wolfman..." And there was the crux of the matter. That man had told her there was no God for her. Had he been right? Had that been her punishment? So many questions plagued her weary mind.
Tiberius: I am familiar with the bible from my father.. Look at the Son. He associated with a woman who compromised her body but not her soul because she had faith in him, his healing touch.. There is confession.. It is not... hell but merely a time away from his light unless you chose to change your life.. It is a matter of what you believe.. I am not of a catholic belief. I am more of a mind to follow my mother's beliefs. The goddess, mother earth and brother wolf. It is a natural way of life. Balance within all things.
Nairne: Nairne had never truly been one much for religion. Her Mother, or the woman who'd raised her, had not been very informative or encouraging of learning. She had always told Nairne that someday she'd learn of her curse. And, truly, she had. For she was of mixed blood, of two clans that feud, and she stuck in the middle. None knew of her, and she aimed to keep it that way. "Balance? I...am so confused, Tibby. How can I find balance?" Watching him quietly, she took a seat upon the edge of her bed and stared at the hands now folded in her lap. "I...have never believed in a God, truthfully, and now I wonder if that was a mistake." In truth, Nairne was frightened still of that attack and extremely ticked off. In any other situation she'd have fought back, but she'd been so afraid that it'd made her unable to do anything. For once she had felt like the weaker sex.
Tiberius: *He pushed to his feet, moving to her. Kneeling, then shifting to settle on his bottom, he looked up at her, his knees hugged gently to his chest.* You have to find that place where you are happy and your life functioning. You have a roof over your head, people who care about you. You can provide for yourself and you're not hurting anyone by doing it.. To me.. That's balance. As long as you can lay your head down each night and know that you have done your best, then.. who can judge you for the life you live? *He gave a small shrug of his shoulders.* Have you read the bible? Do you have faith in the ideology behind it's writing? It makes no sense to have faith in something because you are scared you made a mistake.. I think that rather defeats the purpose..
Nairne: "I...never much followed religion. My Mother never saw it as hugely important. Mistress Aramoire has taught us...some. Our lessons consist of various learnings, teachings of Catholic religion and others, as ignorance is not something to be found in a Courtesan. Yet, I want to know that...I have not...done something so sinful as to end up in a place of dark torment once I die..." Nairne had heard various stories of those who relived out their sins in Hell. She did not like the idea of such for herself.
Tiberius: *He gave a small nod.* I understand that desire. My mother's people were heathens in the eyes of the Catholic church. She believed in more than one god and certainly not -their- God. *Cerulean hues flickered up to indigo.* To be with a man outside of the sanctity of marriage is considered a sin.. You are to know one man, your husband, and only after you have taken the vows of marriage.. *He sighed softly.* I wish I could tell you that you would not die in a place of dark torment, milaya moya.. but it is a matter of your faith.. If the clergymen of the church were right, my mother, wonderful as she was, will be cast out of paradise because she was a heathen. I refuse to believe that such a wonderful and loving God is... that... vindictive. By all rights, she followed all his rules without following or knowing the letter of his law.. Should she not find paradise as well? *He looked back down to he knees, speaking in tender quiet tone.* I do not believe you will perish such a horrible fate, Nairne.
Nairne: It was indeed a different view than any of those told to Nairne before. Of course, she'd heard of religions considered heathenish by the Church. Yet, never had she considered that they too had a right to such a place in Heaven's Kingdom, or whatever place they believed in to find peace after death. "You...are a wise man, Tiberius." She used his full name as it seemed appropriate. Smiling down at him, slipping off the bed to kneel before him, she reached out to take his hands in her own. "I...I do not know if my mind is eased yet. What I do know though is that you have given me something to think upon and help in the process of lifting the weight that has been placed upon my shoulders. I..." Trailing off, considering him quietly, she murmured,"I will speak to Mistress Aramoire on the morrow. I have much to ask her. Of you, of us, of giving this...whatever it is...a chance at least."
Tiberius: I am no wiser than you, Nairne. Our knowledges are simply diverse. *He looked up as she came to knee before him. Her hands taking his, a tender smile overtook his features.* I do not wish to ease your mind with false promises, especially circumstances that I cannot guarantee the outcome of.. but religion should be a conscious choice, not merely tradition that if handed down to you like your mothers favored pendant. I am not even certain what I believe in just yet.. *He stroked the backs of her hands with his thumbs in small useless circles.* You need not ask her if... you are not sure.. We are.. nothing solid just yet.. and .. well.. I do not know if I want to hear a disapproving answer... What...what if she tells you that... *He frowned, an expression not worn well on his face.*
Nairne: "That you may not court me? That you must buy me? I...do not know. Yet, I was never one not to ask something. It's not in me." Nairne had to know and would ask. She was not a coward. Did the idea of denial frighten her? Aye. Yet there was hope for approval. Somewhere deep inside that hope hummed loudly. Squeezing his hands comfortingly, she whispered,"It is better to know now, to hear approval or denial before we are anything, than to go on without and find out later...when it will hurt us both all the more. Then it may break both our hearts into pieces unable to be placed back together." Nairne did not want to see that. If denied it would hurt now for a little bit. Yet, if they proceeded and grew closer...it would hurt more and neither of them would likely recover.
Tiberius: *His mother had painted the stories of unrequited love. Marriages born of pedigree when you loved another. Those deep blues flickered down to their joined hands. Did he love this girl? No, but he cared for her. It was just infatuation, a passing thing now, but if just a small taste of her was drawing him like a moth to a flame, what would knowing more of her do to him? He nodded, understanding the potential heartbreak. But he raised those eyes to her again, his voice matching her threadbare whisper.* What will we do if it is denial? *he lowered his head, kissing the back of her hands, a delicate press of lips to each of her knuckles, blonde lockes falling to tickle at her hands as he did so.*
Nairne: Nairne felt her heart squeeze at his words, at the kiss to her hands, and she swallowed hard. Her own voice was a whisper of air,"Then we will be friends. No more, no less..." That was all they could do. Unless Nairne left the Lily. Yet, that frightened her. She couldn't do that. Not only was there the contract yet with Shaden, but the idea of leaving a career that allowed her the means to support herself was too frightening. She'd been poor before, living with that woman, but now...she had money and had grown accustomed to a certain lifestyle. Could she give it all up? She honestly did not know...
Tiberius: Friends... I would like that at the very least.. *There was another pass of kisses before he drew up again. Deep blues sought indigo. Could he quell the flutter of his heart at the mere possibility of more to his relationship to this woman? There was not a choice of Shaden told her that there was no possibility to what they were contemplating. At least he could be close to her? He offfered a small gentle smile.* We will be okay.. I would rather know sooner than later.. You're right in that regard...
Nairne: Nodding softly, staring into his eyes, she leaned forward to place a kiss to his lips. "Tibby...stay with me tonight." Did Nairne offer more than what had been done previously? Not unless he wished it. Yet, what she did offer was the chance for them to hold each other at least one more time. Incase tomorrow would see them denied a chance at exploring whatever made their hearts flutter.
Tiberius: *Her lips touched his and completely derailed any thought he had. Deep blues closed for a moment, savoring the small affection. His eyes opening, seeking hers. He offered a small nod, his voice soft, fragile.* I'll stay with you, Nairne.. If it is the last I am to spend with you, then I would not trade that for anything in the world. *A hand snuck from the pile of their hands, reaching towards her face. Delicate brush of fingertips pushed back a few stray strands of ebon lockes from her flawless features. He smiled gently.* I did not bring my nightclothes again.. Though.. the gate house is not terribly far... *It was a gentle teasing, the smile growing wider on handsome features telling that tale.*
Nairne: "You do not need any..." That was the simplest statement to his tease. He did not have to go anywhere. No, they would stay right here and sleep, held in each other's arms, with nothing to separate them. That would be how it was.
Tiberius: I know.. *That teasing smile softened to something more simple, more gentle. A knowledge taking residence there in his eyes.* The rules of engagement tonight? *His fingers combing through her hair as the brush had earlier, fingernail tips barely grazing her scalp beneath. Back through her hair and out so he could start from the beginning once more.* Or is it better to leave fires unknown smolder with no fuel?
Nairne: Was he asking...? Indigo eyes locked on his, liquid and warm, as she considered his words. It was the action of his fingers through her hair that lulled her body into such a relaxed state that he could have done anything, and she'd have let him. Nairne's body quivered with feelings brought out by thoughts not-so-innocent. Dropping her gaze, blushing, she murmured,"I...would say no...yet...perhaps it'd be too much to know what is forbidden if denied tomorrow. It would be wise to travel the safest path tonight..." The words were spoken more as a question, denoting that she was not even sure of following such wisdom.
Tiberius: *His legs folded out and shifted, curling under him in a careful move of feline grace. Muscles held a delicate balance as he leaned into her. Again his fingers brushed through her hair, pulling her hair back again in that gentle teasing.* If you find tomorrow that ... this becomes forbidden fruit that we may not partake of? *He chose that moment to steal a small smoldering kiss from her lips, inhaling deep, breathing in the whole of her. He drew back, whispering roughly bare inches from her lips.* Could we just... leave tonight to...whatever may develop?
Nairne: What had happened to the sweet innocent? When had he changed into this man? Still the same, yet different. Here he was seducing her. She was not used to that. As a Courtesan she was always the one doing the seducing. Swallowing hard, lost in the sudden kiss, in his close presence, Nairne heard his words through a fog of passion. And so Eve tasted the forbbiden fruit... The words came into her mind, barely noticeable, as she caved in and whispered,"Leave tonight...to fate..." Nairne wasn't about to fight anymore.
Tiberius: *The possiblity of never knowing her touch, her kiss, her affection had made him bold. Words were always so easy to string together other times, except with her. He had to fight to express himself, but this one thing, this... -tiny- little matter... Their intimacy, gave him a moment's clarity. He let fingers brush once more, reveling in the silky texture of her hair. Though, he remained closed to her. He shifted his legs, tucking them securely beneath him. He pressed his forehead to hers, a rough exhale slipping from him* Is it wrong to be utterly terrified standing on the edge of the unknown?
Nairne: "If it is then I do not care..." Nairne felt the same way. As if she was standing on a precipice, staring down at a great yawning void, and about to plunge in. She was not an innocent in matters of intercourse. In her line of work, most eventually dove into that. Yet, she'd been doing it for many years. What she was inexperienced in though...was this. This was different, an intimacy and passion so overwhelming that she felt it flowing through her. Taking a shaky breath, indigo eyes on his blue ones, she whispered,"Kiss me...please..." Why ask? Why not do? She liked the feeling of being his to do with as he pleased. To put herself in his hands and trust completely that he wouldn't hurt her, it was so odd...
Tiberius: *An audible swallow, then a faint nod.* As you wish.. *He reached for hair again, combing fingers through her locks until they were buried deep within. His lips sought hers once more, nurturing a small ardent fire. Though, he didn't know where to go past the pressing of lips. That was about the depth of his knowledge drawn from her. This was definitely not the kiss on his cheek that his mother gave him. Fingers combed further through her hair, down her back, drawing her closer to him.*
Nairne: It felt as though flames licked over her skin, devouring her, heating her up and melting her into liquid. That's all that could be described. Certain customers, Bolverk for example, had ignited the flame of lust. Yet, this was not that. This was unadulterated passion fueled by...intimacy and emotional feelings that were as yet unexplained in Nairne's confused mind. Returning the kiss with an urgency that could not be explained, her shaky fingers reached to undo his shirt and slide beneath it, allowing the flesh of her hands to connect with his chest. She would teach him, as he clearly did not know what else to do.
Tiberius: *He moved into the room, a brilliant smile on his lips as he moved into her room proper. He licked his lips, closing the door behind him. Deep blues raked over her form, a small frown touching his features.* I am.. a little sore still, but on the mend.. *He licked his lips again.* Do you have a brush, Nairne? I would love to brush your hair out if you would let me..
Nairne: "That is well. I have heard that you spoke to Shaden?" Gerda had let that little tidbit slip, but had not said more. The housekeeper brought up food and drink to constantly keep Nairne at least eating. His question brought a bit of a teasing light into her indigo gaze,"Have you ever known a woman not to own a brush?" Nodding her head toward a stand, she smiled softly and leaned her forehead against the chill glass of the window. "Have...there been anymore attacks?" Nairne was concerned. So many people walked the streets unaware of the danger.
Tiberius: *He grinned sheepishly, moving to slip his boots off, setting them neatly aside. He would move toward the stand where her brush was, taking it up. His voice soft* I have not heard of any more attacks, but I have been mending and resting largely.. I did try to social but my body was not cooperating... I had to retire early. *He licked his lips* How are you? Still feeling poorly? *He would slip to stand behind her as she sat in the window. The brush set on the sill, he would begin to undo her bun with gentle touch. He would begin to comb her hair ever so delicately. It was obvious that he had been in this position before. Being the comber.*
Nairne: Nodding slowly, she adjusted for him to be able to sit on the seat as well. Sitting between his legs, letting her back rest against his chest, Nairne smiled softly as he began brushing her hair out. "I apologize for not being social myself. I have been...tired. Did Shaden give you work?" She was curious about that. If not, where would Tibby go to find it?
Tiberius: *He would settle in behind her, a soft content sigh as she settled against his chest. He would tend to her hair delicate and tender.* Yes.. Mistress Aramoire was quite kind.. I will tend the bar and keep the house in general.. *He did half of her hair, then the other, meticulous and careful.*
Nairne: A sigh of relief was breathed, easily misinterpreted as one of pleasure at the brushing, and Nairne murmured,"That is good. Gerda will love you dearly." Everyone knew how the woman was about tending the bar. "How is everyone else?" She knew that not many had been told of the attack. Only Moira and Shaden, and those necessary, would have been told. She would keep it as quiet as possible.
Tiberius: Truth be told, I have not been on my feet longer than to have spoken to Moira and Mistress Aramoire.. I have not had the stamina or perhaps the frame of mind to be social.. *He combed her hair down to lay over her shoulders, the brush set on the sill once more.* There.. Better?
Nairne: Reaching out her good left hand, Nairne gently took his injured arm to peruse it. "It seems to be healing well though. Are the others?" Nairne had spent her last two evenings in bed alone, not including the night at the Briar when they'd again shared a bed- cuddling only- and had missed the company. It would not do though for the other girl's to think him a client or for Shaden to think he was getting claim to something without charge. Once the hair was brushed out, she smiled softly, and kissed his cheek,"Much better." There was a weariness to her features and her smile held notes of exhaustion.
Tiberius: *He winced, but only a little as she surveyed his arm. A tender smile touching his lips at her kiss to his cheek. He blushed, horridly.* Everything is healing.. moving about is ... not exactly fun yet but, I will be fine within a week or so. I am just a touch stiff in this arm.. *Moving his left arm to offer what was hurting as example, but he was not 100% stiff. He loosely wrapped his right arm about her waist, pulling her gently back into the line of his chest.* Is it wrong to admit... I will hate staying so far from you as I have since the night at the Briar?..
Nairne: "Where will you stay?" A simple question. She relaxed against him, watching him from over her shoulder. It was not wrong to admit. "I do not like the idea of you staying far from me either..." Yet, it could not really be any other way. Sighing softly, Nairne murmured,"Perhaps, when we are both feeling a bit better, I will take you on that tour I promised. I will not throw you into anymore danger though."
Tiberius: The danger is welcome.. it earned me one more night with you in my arms.. *He tipped his head, nuzzling his nose into the curve of her neck where it met her shoulder, breathing in her sweet scent ever so deep. He exhaled slow* But I am to bunk with Albert in the gatehouse.. No longer taking up a guest room.. I figured sooner was better than later to get over there... I would not wish to put Mistress Aramoire out.. *His hand stroked her stomach feather light, reveling in the small stolen moment of her in his arms once more.*
Nairne: "Oh, when you put it that way...perhaps I should push you into the path more often?" Grinning up at him, a teasing light in her indigo gaze, she sighed softly at his nuzzling. The man was sweet. Listening to his explanation of his new sleeping quarters, Nairne snuggled closer. Indeed he would be put far from her. Though, not intentionally. Shaden had no idea of the confusing feelings caused by this man. "Well, at least you are still close."
Tiberius: I will be about, yes.. Serving drinks at night.. and.. Available to escort you on your dayside rides.. So that you are not left to those who would prey on you.. *His voice grew softer as he murmured his words against her neck* I partially blame myself for not having risen earlier that day.. I should have been with you.. *His regret painted against supple flesh, he allowed the confession to linger there, stroking her tummy idly.*
Nairne: Such a casual, innocent motion, the act of his fingers stroking her stomach through her nightdress, and yet it evoked such non-innocent feelings. Nairne shivered in reaction, but was thankful for the timing. If Tibby was as innocent then he'd suspect it'd been in memory of the attack. Nibbling on her bottom lip, she lifted her left hand, to brush fingers against his cheek,"Do not berate yourself. You came in time to save me. We could not know what would happen. I had not been attacked before."
Tiberius: I can hope that you will never be attacked again. At least, not while I am about. I cannot help but feel... Partially responsible for the attack. *He continued his stroke, not realizing that there was anything wrong with the small touch. He spoke quietly* Are you cold, Nairne? Do you want a blanket? Do I need to be closer? *He smiled gently, pressing a feather light kiss to the pulse racing beneath her flesh.*
Nairne: Closer? Did he not realize that was why she'd shivered? Shaking her head, realizing that Tibby did not know, Nairne let her indigo gaze look out the window. It was the touch of lips to the tender flesh at her throat that made her shiver again though. Laughing softly, she murmured,"I am not cold, Tibby. Not in the least. Though if you keep doing that we may end up under the blankets." A very blunt answer. Nairne was what she was.
Tiberius: If I?.. Oh...Oh! *his face flushed.* Forgive me.. I should stop, yes? *He chuckled quietly an kissed the small fold of her neck again, drawing back to stroke her tummy.* You know.. *His hand stilling, simply resting at her back* Do.. Courtesan's... How do you court a courtesan?
Nairne: Giggling softly, she whispered,"I do not wish you to...though perhaps it is for the best." Nodding softly, Nairne considered that. It would be. They had to move slowly. She did not need to fall for him fast. Her heart was still something she aimed to protect. His question had a brow arching though, smile dimming a bit,"I...honestly do not know. I never considered it..." How did one court a Courtesan? A woman in her line of work did not allow themselves to have time to dally with lovers, or admirers, beyond those that paid coin.
Tiberius: Do you have time to yourself or is your every minute devoted to the household and your part within it? *He did stroke a slow strum against her tummy, though it was feather light and hardly enough pressure to be called a touch.* Is it possible to steal time to have our morning rides? The tour you offered? Is there no one in the manse such as Mistress Aramoire? Surely she has ... someone who is the father to the child.. *Muscled pink slipped to moisten plush tiers.* Or am I being a silly boy? I suppose.. What I mean to ask.. is if I wanted to know more of you, would my attention be unwanted?
Nairne: "If there be a Father, I do not know it. Though do not think that a tragedy. Mistress Aramoire is a woman who can take care of herself and will raise the child capably by herself. She has much love and wisdom to share." Nairne knew that Shaden was a woman of many pieces and yet she would make a wonderful Mother to the child held within her womb. As Tibby went on, Nairne allowed his light touch to lull her into relaxation, body slumping more against his and eyes focused on the snow falling slowly outside the window. "It is welcome, Tibby, more so than I can express. That, in a way, frightens me...." Nairne did not even think of what she uttered, just continued,"There will be time for morning rides and a tour. As for more than that...I do not know..." Would she have to approach Shaden on the matter? Perhaps. Yet, that worried her. What happened to a Courtesan who was being courted by a man...and not bought?
Tiberius: I would not... go away, you know, if it was a matter of .. waiting.. I cannot claim that this.. all of this will go somewhere that would be worth waiting for all eternity.. Right now it is all new and intoxicating.. but.. I have hope right now this is more than a passing affection.. I feel.. all tingly iside and it is the most wonderful feeling.. I don't want this to stop.. *He kept that light stroking up.* I want to know about your life.. What growing up was like for you... Why you are here.. Where you want to be eventually.. Where your dreams will take you if nothing binds you.. Everything that is important in your life.. *He raised his hand from her tummy and laid it lightly over her chest.* In your heart..
Nairne: What he wanted, was so much. Nairne felt her heart begin to race inside her chest. She didn't want to broach the subject of her growing up, of being trained for a future that was loathsome and painful. As to why she was here? He knew it, quite simply. Well, kind of. Feeling suddenly panicky, she wiggled from his arms and rose to her feet, careful not to jar her arm. "Tibby, I...there's much you don't understand about me. I-I like this feeling...as much as you do...but...what you ask..." Shaking her head, she gave a semblance of a smile,"It is something I cannot yet give. What I told you before, about that man, was a carefully guarded secret...my whole life has been...and I'm not ready to air them all." Nairne didn't know if she'd ever be able to. She could not even imagine telling him of her bloodline, of where she'd truly come from, and that was her biggest.
Tiberius: *She slipped from him and lower lip was instantly drawn into his mouth, his gaze lowering to the place she vacated, pinched between his teeth. He'd misstepped, misspoke. This was not some pain easily passed over, and he... God help him. He didn't know how to do these things. He tempted fate, opening his craw to speak cautiously.* My apologies, Nairne. I did not wish to stir something so painful.. I will not ask again. I'm.. I'm sorry. I just.. I want to share everything of myself, my past, my ... everything. *He risked a side glance towards her, deep blues seeking indigo.* I forget because my life is an open book, yours does not necessarily have to be as well.. I respect your wishes, milaya moya. Please, do not withdraw.
Nairne: Pacing back and forth, slowly, she listened to his words while nibbling on her lip. Nairne could have blown up at him, prying that way, whether unwittingly or not, and she had not. That was amazing in itself. Yet, it signified much as well. Just how much did he mean to her already? How far had she let herself fall? Damn! Cursing silently, she sighed, and caught his words with a curious look upon her face,"What...what does that mean?" It was a language that Nairne had heard before, but one that she did not know. Eventually, it was likely, Shaden would have it taught to the Courtesans as part of their lessons. For now though, she'd leave it to him to tell her. Indigo eyes observed him, standing still, body not moving any closer. She was wary now, not of him...but of herself.
Tiberius: Milaya moya? It means... my sweet in Russian. *Deep blues peered quietly, observant. she didn't seem completely.. upset, but she was nervous or worried with her pacing. He shifted, moving his leg that straddled the bench by the window, turning towards her.* Nairne.. Really.. It's okay..
Nairne: Nodding her head, Nairne smiled a bit softer,"It is...pretty." She didn't know what to think of it. Of this. Indigo eyes lowered to the floor thoughtfully until he spoke again. Lifting her head, she sighed,"Is it? You asked...only a few questions...and I cannot even manage that. You wish to court me and I do not know if that is even allowed. And on top of that...why? Men buy my body, my company, and use both as they please. In return...I get coin. What kind of woman does that make me? I told Moira that a Courtesan is better than a common whore. Yet, are we? We are educated better, yes, but in essence we still do the same in our work..."
Tiberius: *His brow knit.* My mother.. Her.. ideals were not that of my father.. My mother was not of noble blood.. It is why I do not have uncles and cousins to have fallen back upon.. It is because my mother was... Well she was a Gyspy.. our family would call her Rroma, but gypsy is what the "gage", non-rroma call her people.. my people.. I do not... have typical beliefs of what is right and what is not.. It is part of what you are.. who you are.. Who am I to judge? You take care of your body, your mind. You are better than a ... common whore in my opinion.
Nairne: "Gypsy..." She'd heard of them. Though not really encountered many besides those observed in the streets of Turas Lan. There was absolutely nothing wrong with that heritage, and he would see that Nairne had no issue or prejudice by the smooth lines of her fair face. Yet, she could not understand fully. "I take care of my mind, my body, but what of my soul? I toss it into the pits. God will not welcome me, a woman of such disgrace, into Heaven. He will toss me into Hell, into the arms of the Devil, as he did that wolfman..." And there was the crux of the matter. That man had told her there was no God for her. Had he been right? Had that been her punishment? So many questions plagued her weary mind.
Tiberius: I am familiar with the bible from my father.. Look at the Son. He associated with a woman who compromised her body but not her soul because she had faith in him, his healing touch.. There is confession.. It is not... hell but merely a time away from his light unless you chose to change your life.. It is a matter of what you believe.. I am not of a catholic belief. I am more of a mind to follow my mother's beliefs. The goddess, mother earth and brother wolf. It is a natural way of life. Balance within all things.
Nairne: Nairne had never truly been one much for religion. Her Mother, or the woman who'd raised her, had not been very informative or encouraging of learning. She had always told Nairne that someday she'd learn of her curse. And, truly, she had. For she was of mixed blood, of two clans that feud, and she stuck in the middle. None knew of her, and she aimed to keep it that way. "Balance? I...am so confused, Tibby. How can I find balance?" Watching him quietly, she took a seat upon the edge of her bed and stared at the hands now folded in her lap. "I...have never believed in a God, truthfully, and now I wonder if that was a mistake." In truth, Nairne was frightened still of that attack and extremely ticked off. In any other situation she'd have fought back, but she'd been so afraid that it'd made her unable to do anything. For once she had felt like the weaker sex.
Tiberius: *He pushed to his feet, moving to her. Kneeling, then shifting to settle on his bottom, he looked up at her, his knees hugged gently to his chest.* You have to find that place where you are happy and your life functioning. You have a roof over your head, people who care about you. You can provide for yourself and you're not hurting anyone by doing it.. To me.. That's balance. As long as you can lay your head down each night and know that you have done your best, then.. who can judge you for the life you live? *He gave a small shrug of his shoulders.* Have you read the bible? Do you have faith in the ideology behind it's writing? It makes no sense to have faith in something because you are scared you made a mistake.. I think that rather defeats the purpose..
Nairne: "I...never much followed religion. My Mother never saw it as hugely important. Mistress Aramoire has taught us...some. Our lessons consist of various learnings, teachings of Catholic religion and others, as ignorance is not something to be found in a Courtesan. Yet, I want to know that...I have not...done something so sinful as to end up in a place of dark torment once I die..." Nairne had heard various stories of those who relived out their sins in Hell. She did not like the idea of such for herself.
Tiberius: *He gave a small nod.* I understand that desire. My mother's people were heathens in the eyes of the Catholic church. She believed in more than one god and certainly not -their- God. *Cerulean hues flickered up to indigo.* To be with a man outside of the sanctity of marriage is considered a sin.. You are to know one man, your husband, and only after you have taken the vows of marriage.. *He sighed softly.* I wish I could tell you that you would not die in a place of dark torment, milaya moya.. but it is a matter of your faith.. If the clergymen of the church were right, my mother, wonderful as she was, will be cast out of paradise because she was a heathen. I refuse to believe that such a wonderful and loving God is... that... vindictive. By all rights, she followed all his rules without following or knowing the letter of his law.. Should she not find paradise as well? *He looked back down to he knees, speaking in tender quiet tone.* I do not believe you will perish such a horrible fate, Nairne.
Nairne: It was indeed a different view than any of those told to Nairne before. Of course, she'd heard of religions considered heathenish by the Church. Yet, never had she considered that they too had a right to such a place in Heaven's Kingdom, or whatever place they believed in to find peace after death. "You...are a wise man, Tiberius." She used his full name as it seemed appropriate. Smiling down at him, slipping off the bed to kneel before him, she reached out to take his hands in her own. "I...I do not know if my mind is eased yet. What I do know though is that you have given me something to think upon and help in the process of lifting the weight that has been placed upon my shoulders. I..." Trailing off, considering him quietly, she murmured,"I will speak to Mistress Aramoire on the morrow. I have much to ask her. Of you, of us, of giving this...whatever it is...a chance at least."
Tiberius: I am no wiser than you, Nairne. Our knowledges are simply diverse. *He looked up as she came to knee before him. Her hands taking his, a tender smile overtook his features.* I do not wish to ease your mind with false promises, especially circumstances that I cannot guarantee the outcome of.. but religion should be a conscious choice, not merely tradition that if handed down to you like your mothers favored pendant. I am not even certain what I believe in just yet.. *He stroked the backs of her hands with his thumbs in small useless circles.* You need not ask her if... you are not sure.. We are.. nothing solid just yet.. and .. well.. I do not know if I want to hear a disapproving answer... What...what if she tells you that... *He frowned, an expression not worn well on his face.*
Nairne: "That you may not court me? That you must buy me? I...do not know. Yet, I was never one not to ask something. It's not in me." Nairne had to know and would ask. She was not a coward. Did the idea of denial frighten her? Aye. Yet there was hope for approval. Somewhere deep inside that hope hummed loudly. Squeezing his hands comfortingly, she whispered,"It is better to know now, to hear approval or denial before we are anything, than to go on without and find out later...when it will hurt us both all the more. Then it may break both our hearts into pieces unable to be placed back together." Nairne did not want to see that. If denied it would hurt now for a little bit. Yet, if they proceeded and grew closer...it would hurt more and neither of them would likely recover.
Tiberius: *His mother had painted the stories of unrequited love. Marriages born of pedigree when you loved another. Those deep blues flickered down to their joined hands. Did he love this girl? No, but he cared for her. It was just infatuation, a passing thing now, but if just a small taste of her was drawing him like a moth to a flame, what would knowing more of her do to him? He nodded, understanding the potential heartbreak. But he raised those eyes to her again, his voice matching her threadbare whisper.* What will we do if it is denial? *he lowered his head, kissing the back of her hands, a delicate press of lips to each of her knuckles, blonde lockes falling to tickle at her hands as he did so.*
Nairne: Nairne felt her heart squeeze at his words, at the kiss to her hands, and she swallowed hard. Her own voice was a whisper of air,"Then we will be friends. No more, no less..." That was all they could do. Unless Nairne left the Lily. Yet, that frightened her. She couldn't do that. Not only was there the contract yet with Shaden, but the idea of leaving a career that allowed her the means to support herself was too frightening. She'd been poor before, living with that woman, but now...she had money and had grown accustomed to a certain lifestyle. Could she give it all up? She honestly did not know...
Tiberius: Friends... I would like that at the very least.. *There was another pass of kisses before he drew up again. Deep blues sought indigo. Could he quell the flutter of his heart at the mere possibility of more to his relationship to this woman? There was not a choice of Shaden told her that there was no possibility to what they were contemplating. At least he could be close to her? He offfered a small gentle smile.* We will be okay.. I would rather know sooner than later.. You're right in that regard...
Nairne: Nodding softly, staring into his eyes, she leaned forward to place a kiss to his lips. "Tibby...stay with me tonight." Did Nairne offer more than what had been done previously? Not unless he wished it. Yet, what she did offer was the chance for them to hold each other at least one more time. Incase tomorrow would see them denied a chance at exploring whatever made their hearts flutter.
Tiberius: *Her lips touched his and completely derailed any thought he had. Deep blues closed for a moment, savoring the small affection. His eyes opening, seeking hers. He offered a small nod, his voice soft, fragile.* I'll stay with you, Nairne.. If it is the last I am to spend with you, then I would not trade that for anything in the world. *A hand snuck from the pile of their hands, reaching towards her face. Delicate brush of fingertips pushed back a few stray strands of ebon lockes from her flawless features. He smiled gently.* I did not bring my nightclothes again.. Though.. the gate house is not terribly far... *It was a gentle teasing, the smile growing wider on handsome features telling that tale.*
Nairne: "You do not need any..." That was the simplest statement to his tease. He did not have to go anywhere. No, they would stay right here and sleep, held in each other's arms, with nothing to separate them. That would be how it was.
Tiberius: I know.. *That teasing smile softened to something more simple, more gentle. A knowledge taking residence there in his eyes.* The rules of engagement tonight? *His fingers combing through her hair as the brush had earlier, fingernail tips barely grazing her scalp beneath. Back through her hair and out so he could start from the beginning once more.* Or is it better to leave fires unknown smolder with no fuel?
Nairne: Was he asking...? Indigo eyes locked on his, liquid and warm, as she considered his words. It was the action of his fingers through her hair that lulled her body into such a relaxed state that he could have done anything, and she'd have let him. Nairne's body quivered with feelings brought out by thoughts not-so-innocent. Dropping her gaze, blushing, she murmured,"I...would say no...yet...perhaps it'd be too much to know what is forbidden if denied tomorrow. It would be wise to travel the safest path tonight..." The words were spoken more as a question, denoting that she was not even sure of following such wisdom.
Tiberius: *His legs folded out and shifted, curling under him in a careful move of feline grace. Muscles held a delicate balance as he leaned into her. Again his fingers brushed through her hair, pulling her hair back again in that gentle teasing.* If you find tomorrow that ... this becomes forbidden fruit that we may not partake of? *He chose that moment to steal a small smoldering kiss from her lips, inhaling deep, breathing in the whole of her. He drew back, whispering roughly bare inches from her lips.* Could we just... leave tonight to...whatever may develop?
Nairne: What had happened to the sweet innocent? When had he changed into this man? Still the same, yet different. Here he was seducing her. She was not used to that. As a Courtesan she was always the one doing the seducing. Swallowing hard, lost in the sudden kiss, in his close presence, Nairne heard his words through a fog of passion. And so Eve tasted the forbbiden fruit... The words came into her mind, barely noticeable, as she caved in and whispered,"Leave tonight...to fate..." Nairne wasn't about to fight anymore.
Tiberius: *The possiblity of never knowing her touch, her kiss, her affection had made him bold. Words were always so easy to string together other times, except with her. He had to fight to express himself, but this one thing, this... -tiny- little matter... Their intimacy, gave him a moment's clarity. He let fingers brush once more, reveling in the silky texture of her hair. Though, he remained closed to her. He shifted his legs, tucking them securely beneath him. He pressed his forehead to hers, a rough exhale slipping from him* Is it wrong to be utterly terrified standing on the edge of the unknown?
Nairne: "If it is then I do not care..." Nairne felt the same way. As if she was standing on a precipice, staring down at a great yawning void, and about to plunge in. She was not an innocent in matters of intercourse. In her line of work, most eventually dove into that. Yet, she'd been doing it for many years. What she was inexperienced in though...was this. This was different, an intimacy and passion so overwhelming that she felt it flowing through her. Taking a shaky breath, indigo eyes on his blue ones, she whispered,"Kiss me...please..." Why ask? Why not do? She liked the feeling of being his to do with as he pleased. To put herself in his hands and trust completely that he wouldn't hurt her, it was so odd...
Tiberius: *An audible swallow, then a faint nod.* As you wish.. *He reached for hair again, combing fingers through her locks until they were buried deep within. His lips sought hers once more, nurturing a small ardent fire. Though, he didn't know where to go past the pressing of lips. That was about the depth of his knowledge drawn from her. This was definitely not the kiss on his cheek that his mother gave him. Fingers combed further through her hair, down her back, drawing her closer to him.*
Nairne: It felt as though flames licked over her skin, devouring her, heating her up and melting her into liquid. That's all that could be described. Certain customers, Bolverk for example, had ignited the flame of lust. Yet, this was not that. This was unadulterated passion fueled by...intimacy and emotional feelings that were as yet unexplained in Nairne's confused mind. Returning the kiss with an urgency that could not be explained, her shaky fingers reached to undo his shirt and slide beneath it, allowing the flesh of her hands to connect with his chest. She would teach him, as he clearly did not know what else to do.
What the rest of the night held would not pass the threshhold of her doorway. Those details perhaps would not even be carried on the wind.