Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess & Archangel)
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: GothicFires on 16-05-2006, 06:06:57</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>16-05-2006, 06:06:57</strong>
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				She sat on the hard wooden chair and stared out the window. The flowers that she had cared for so tenderly were in bloom and reflected a wide array of colors from the morning sun. How sweetly they would smell if she where out there among them? But she found herself, as she often had done over the past couple of years, wondering about her life and why it no longer made her happy.<br><br>For the longest while Teagan had thought she was the happiest woman in the world. Like every other girl in the village she had fell in love with Donavan. He was handsome and strong. The skill he had with a sword at the age of 18 was remarkable, everyone knew he could only get better and that he was destined for greater things than a small village could offer.&nbsp; Perhaps her luck with him had more to do with her skill with a bow and convenience of being around rather than love. There had not been anything special between them until a small group of them had set off in search of what was beyond the horizon. She had been invited to go because she could almost shoot that far.<br><br>Why were things so easy to see now and why was she having such a hard time with the truth of what was? Had she and Donavan not traveled together he would have planted his pole in any woman with a pretty face. Both of them had plenty of offers. It had been easy for her to turn them down, but she had over heard Trom tell her husband it was bad form to flirt in front of his wife.&nbsp; The group of Fire and Steel gained a reputation that preceded them. She knew now that it was the rest of her battle-made-family that kept him in line. When her desires in life changed and adventuring was no longer in her heart, he was only to happy to let her go. <br><br>Donavan had said he loved her and would miss her when they were not together, but she did not trust how deeply he meant those words. He had been to her home eight times since she retired, each time the visits were farther apart and for shorter periods. Even now he was a week past due. Teagan wanted this home; she wanted children’s laughter resonating off its walls. Yet she was not pregnant and she could not longer envision her husband as being their father.<br><br>It did no good to dwell. She needed an outlet for her frustrations and a patrol of the area was as good as anything else to do. Her fair sized stone home sat deep in the woods not far from the Elven land boarder. The dwelling had been empty for the longest time because the locals feared to live in it. But the Elves did not cross the boarder, they wanted nothing to do with humans. The village was small enough not to be a major thorn in the sides of their reluctant neighbors. Its small size also meant that there was no steady traffic of the kingdom’s law enforcement. Teagan served in that capacity. More for herself; it gave her reason to keep her armor in good condition and her warhorse trained. Today would probably be just another ride. <br><br>Looking every bit as formidable as when she traveled with Fire &amp; Steel, she set her horse in a trot and headed toward Deer’s Glen. The smoke was the first thing she had smelled, though the wind seemed clear. The air felt thick and her mount balked at going through it. Someone was using magic. That is was the darker side of the craft was all she could tell. With out giving the charger an option, she forced him forward and blinked at the invisible smoke that stung her eyes. With in a few feet she could see the blackened sky and the soot in the air that threatened to choke every living creature. Screams of terrible pain, agony and grief filled the air and she marveled at the strength of the mage that she was not able to hear them from her home. <br><br>The archer drew her sword as men ran toward her, bearing arms and yelling war cries to unnerve her. Calmly she deflected their blows and let her horse kick at them with his strong legs and razor edged shoes. How many of them she killed she did not count. She and her mount just kept cutting them down until someone shouted for a volley. The effort she made was futile if they were tilling to cut down the men who were attacking her. Her heart sank as she realized there was nothing she could do here except die and she was not ready for that. She spurred the horse and pulled his reigns to guide him back in the direction they had come. The stallion needed little encouragement as it broke into a gallop as the arrows whizzed in the air closer them. One embedded itself deep into the bay’s flank, but the horse kept going. <br><br>It had been much easier to leave than enter. She made it to her home in short time, but it was already in flames with a small group of ,what she could only guess as, soldiers surrounding it. They looked nothing more than vagabonds but she had never seen a group this big or with a mage that could very well be an Adept. Her arrows killed the unfortunate men with precision. Teagan was too busy looking for more and missed the subtle signs that her horse was in trouble. It was not until she unceremoniously laid down and rolled to his side, that she became aware. She took an unexpected dive as to not be crushed by the weight of the horse and instead landed hard in the armor and rocks hidden in the grass. <br><br>Her heart felt like it was being suffocated. Her home she had dreamed about was gone, the village that was beginning to be her extended family demolished and her faithful companion during most of her campaigns lay on the ground from a wound that should not have been that bad. She could only guess that the arrow had been poisoned for the horse was laying on the shaft and she could not move him to check. Looking back to the village she knew she could not go that way, given that men were sent to destroy her home, more would come when these did not check in at their appointed time. That left her only one direction to go.<br><br>With her gear gathered, she made her way deeper into the forest and over the fallen thee that served as a bridge over the deep swift stream that separated human and Elven lands. She kept going trying to disturb as little as possible. She did not want any archers to be able to hit her from the opposite bank. Once she felt that she at traveled deep enough she stopped and sat against a tree. Her eyes closed and her mind threatened to shut down in response to what it had experienced today. Tears slid down her face but she made no sound in her sorrow. She had made her way as silently as she could, it would not bode well for her to be caught uninvited into Elven territory.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-05-2006, 16:58:17</strong>
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				Valendir had been moving through the woods searching for the herbs he’d been sent to gather. It had been a good day. He’d found several rare weeds that he’d not expected, but then again he didn’t venture this close to human lands very often. The land here was rockier, and it seemed more chaotic, being less influenced by the elven druids who protected these woods. The trade off was that he always found something unexpected when he ventured this far from his home. Today would be no different.<br><br>He found he needed to venture farther out to collect the herbs, and he was happy for it. He’d always been a bit of a loner. Since putting an end to his adventuring days in the human lands he’d worked at first for the lords of the town as ranger, but now he found the solitude of his current employment far more appealing. <br><br>This was his third day on this journey and he’d been considering turning back for the past few hours but he had a feeling something was amiss. He’d learned to trust his instinct some time ago and it had saved his life on more than one occasion. The birds were suddenly quiet, and his keen elven sight had noticed several small animals scurrying away from the direction of the river that separated the elven lands from those of the humans.&nbsp; <br><br>He moved slowly and cautiously in that direction. He felt his heart quicken as it usually did when he moved into what could be a dangerous situation. His elven longbow was in his hand and the arrow in the other. He crouched low, his eyes scanning the deer trail ahead. He could hear it long before he saw it. Whatever it was, it was trying to move stealthily but Valendir wasn’t fooled. Then it stopped… He moved low, a few carefully placed steps until he passed the shrub that concealed the intruder’s presence. <br><br>It was a woman, a human woman. He nocked the arrow and aimed at her. He targeted the spot where the arm exits the armour, a spot he knew would offer little protection. She wore the armour of a warrior, and something about it was familiar to him. He paused when he made out the golden sheen of the plates. Could it be he wondered… More reason to fire he thought to himself as he lifted the bow once more. From this angle he could not confirm with absolute certainty it was her and it took everything he had not to just end it…. <br><br>The arrow sang as it was released, a soft whistling song. It landed into the tree with a loud thud, just inches from her head….<br><br>“Do not move woman….. Who are you, and why have you crossed into this land?"<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-05-2006, 02:13:32</strong>
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				She should have kept an eye on her surroundings. As an experienced warrior it was not a mistake she should have made, but with the destruction of her home and the death of her horse she was beginning to wonder what the struggle was for. There was nothing for her to protect, nothing to fight for. She did not know how many people survived or even what the intent of the attackers had been. Perhaps when she was done with her poor me rant she would realize that helping the village was the right thing to do. However for the moment she did not want the right thing. She wanted a home, a child on her lap, one in her belly and a man smiling at the blessing of that all. Now she was down to nothing and being 30 years of age did not allow her time to correct all that had gone wrong.<br><br>The song of the arrow called to her and she looked up to see it flying towards her. It was a struggle to reign in her flight instincts, but moving was pointless. If this arrow did not kill her there would be many to follow that would. She did flinch as it sank into the wood with a loud thud. There was no relief in her dark brown eyes as she was questioned, even though she knew that voice. She closed her eyes and remembered him perfectly. Those cold blue eyes that contained the warmth of the sun when he thought that no one was looking. Soft silver hair that she even got to braid once. The Elf’s archery skills surpassed her own and the only time she had seen him smile was when she had wrangled him in to giving her a lesson. Donavan had not liked Valendir because he was better with a sword and also better looking. Valendir simply did not like being around humans, but at the time he traveled with Fire and Steel there was no choice for any of them.<br><br>“If you are Valendir Melwasul, then you know me”. Slowly moved her hands into the air, not above her head but before her where he could see that she held nothing, yet she could still have time to be defensive if she needed. Her dark eye searched the direction of the arrow searching until she found him; still she could not see him clearly. “I am Teagan Guthrie from the champion group Fire and Steel. I mean no harm and seek only to travel far enough down river to avoid the men who just attacked my home.” She tried very hard to keep her voice steady though she did not think Elven ears missed much. Her thigh muscle contracted from the trauma of falling onto rock and then walking the distance she had at a brisk pace. Valendir would now decide her fate. She had to trust that even though he refused her attempt at becoming friends that he at least knew that she would not willingly bring harm to his people. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-05-2006, 17:56:52</strong>
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				Valendir listened to her speak, and he observed her lift her arms but he said nothing at first. In his mind he simply considered launching the arrow and ending it… But he didn’t. He lowered the bow slightly, pointing the next arrow towards the ground. He stood and moved slowly towards her front. He wanted to confirm with his own eyes what she’d said, and he wanted to see her eyes…. He hoped to see fear in them, fear for her life… She who had tried to befriend him all those years ago, before he’d been abandoned to his own fate. <br><br>He stood but 10 feet from her now, his cloak catching a bit of the wind and his white ash bow still pointed in her direction. He was silent for a moment, but eventually he spoke “If any other elf would have found you, you’d be dead… And there’s no guarantee you fate will be otherwise….” He said with a bit of a snarl… She’d been in battle, that much was apparent. She seemed tired, and dried blood had been splattered over her armour. He didn’t think she posed a real threat, but she was a crafty, capable warrior woman. Her voice wavered a bit, she seemed nervous… His sudden rage lessened. He tried to remind himself that it was her mate he despised. He had convinced himself that Donavan had set him up, perhaps out of jealousy, and emotion most humans had difficulty controlling.<br><br>“I know who you are… Teagan” he said. His eyes continued to scan the area nearby for any signs of a trap… “Who attacked your home? And why would you lead them into the elven realm?” He asked curiously. “Humans have been killing other humans for centuries… Maybe longer, why should the elves care?” he continued. He looked at her eyes, searching for any hint of deception. Deep down he wished she would make a move for a weapon. <br><br>“And where is you mate?”&nbsp; <br><br><br><br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 01:20:24</strong>
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				The words he said were true. Any other elf would have shot her. Though she had another elf, human children were told bedtime stories of the vileness of elves to keep them well behaved. Teagan knew most of the stories were not true, but the fact that neither race liked the other could not be denied. She and her cousins were told that elves where mean and ugly beings, but she was stunned for a moment as Valendir stepped into view. His face was not knew to her, still his beauty stole her thought for a moment. The pain of her leg made her blink and grimace, but she did not move her hands; least he think her moving for a weapon. <br><br>She leaned her dark head back against the tree, exposing her throat. Though if he was going to shoot her, she hoped he would aim for her head; his arrows where strong enough to penetrate with his superb bow giving them the ability to fly. To be hit any where else would be to die in agony. Again she discovered that she was not ready to give up on life.<br><br>“I do not know these bastards that attacked Deer’s Glen.” She winced again and pulled her leg closer to her body. It was not a voluntary action; the continuous contraction of the muscle forced the move. Still her hands were kept before her so he had no further reasons to shoot. “They looked like bandits, but their numbers were far to high.” Savaging and steeling was a tough job. Bandit groups usually stayed small 5 to 25 maybe. The more people who where involved the less ill gotten goods that an individual received. “And they had a mage of significant skill. It seems that they have scouted the area before today because they did not use the main road to attack my home.”<br><br>Unable to tolerate the pain any longer she let out a small sound of agony and moved her hands to her thigh. It saddened her that she did not have faith that he would spare her life. They had stood side by side in combat and in peace. That alone should have been worth something. Her hands began to massage her leg, her face unable to hide the pain. “I did not lead anyone here. All the men who destroyed my home are dead” Sadness where plane to hear in her voice. She never had a care to kill, but knew life was sometimes that way. “I left no trail to be followed.” She did not answer why Elves should care. Human hearts beat the same way, it was their beliefs that differed. “I do not know where Donavan is. He is a week past due. But I must get around these people so I can scout them out and make my way to the Fire and Steel Castle.” The strong hold was 4 days journey by horse, by foot and a sore leg she was not too hopeful on the journey but she had to try. “Will you escort me far enough that I can safely do that, please?” Teagan subconsciously used a weapon given to all women, she looked up at him with tears forming in her eyes, though she blinked them away with out them falling on her cheeks.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 14:15:26</strong>
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				Valendir watched her as she spoke again. As she moved her leg he brought the arrow up and pointed at her exposed throat, but he did not fire. He could tell she was in pain, and he detected no deception in her voice. Her hands were shaking a bit but they remained where he could see them. He knew about bandits all too well. As a Ranger he’d often tracked them along the border and chased them out of the woods, back to where they belonged. If they had organized in such large numbers with a capable mage, they might pose a threat to the elven border. This was unacceptable. <br><br>He watched her move her hands to her leg, any move towards her weapons would be the end of her. There was no visible wound there, but there could easily have been bruising. He did not doubt the bandits at her home were dead, she was fierce in combat, he admired her skill with a sword. For a human she was a skilled hunter, and he knew her tracks would be difficult to follow, if anyone tried. He should have felt sympathy for her but he didn’t, he couldn’t after what they’d done to him. He should kill her now and get it over with… But would it really appease his vengeance…. He supposed not. <br><br>“Ha… Your mate abandons you as he abandoned me all those years ago… How fitting…” was all he could mutter. He had grown to hate the man over the years for what he did. Maybe he should escort Teagan, she would lead him to Donavan, and then he would have his vengeance…. He witnessed the water begin to form in her eyes, and it was pity that came over him. The pain in her leg was obvious, and she had a long trek ahead of her. “I will ‘escort’ you, but only that I may see these bandits with mine own eyes” he said as he returned the arrow to his quiver. He then proceeded to sling his bow. Her life was spared for now, but his hand would not stray far from his sword hilt. He pulled out his waterskin and tossed it next to her…<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 00:51:08</strong>
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				“He DID NOT abandon me!” retorted. Her concentration was in massaging her leg. That was why she did not look at the elf. It was not the fact that her words rang hollow to her ears. Donovan was her husband and she would defend him when he was not here to defend himself. After all, it was she who left Fire and Steel. She had never known her husband to leave anyone in need behind especially if they were comrades. So Valendir’s comment about Donovan abandoning him did not make sense. She was told by the men when she returned to camp from a supply run to a village that he had finally decided to leave. She had thought it odd since their task was yet complete but the Elf had not made an effort to bond with any of them. He had been civil, dependable and trustworthy but never friendly. Teagan guessed it didn’t matter to tell him how many men died the following day in battle because his arrows were not there to sing.<br><br>“I expect nothing more or less from you.” She replied at his agreement to escort her, in a more gentle tone. She did not hate him. Many times she had watched him when no one was looking and felt sorrow for his solitude. Perhaps the elves where not as social as humans. She simply did not know, but there was no need to increase the tension between them. The brunette caught the flagon that he threw at her and took a long drink. She did not know all that she had managed to salvage. There had been looting of her house, she only took a pack she had found and gems and jewelry she had found on the bodies of the dead. Her own waterskin was underneath her horse. <br><br>“Thank you.” She said tossing the leather encased bladder back. She thought she could stand now and gave it a shot. Her eyes were closed to the pain as she pulled herself up using the tree. The one thing Teagan never did was ask for special treatment when she was injured, even when she wanted nothing more than to be held. “I fell from my horse and landed on a large rock. I think my leg is bruised to the bone. I will try not to hold us back to much.” She finally looked at him again, still holding on to the tree. Valendir had not changed much in physical appearance. He was still the most handsome man she had ever seen.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 14:27:18</strong>
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				Valendir was surprised at her tone. He didn't expect to hit such a nerve, but apparently he had. He smiled. Humans were always blind to the obvious, and she was allowing her emotions to rule her judgement... How pathetic. They were probably all in on it including Teagan. Perhaps when he had his final words to Donavan the truth would come out. It had been several years since it happened but for Valendir it was as if it happened yesterday. Thought it had been difficult to show, he had made friends with some of the humans and it had made the betrayal even more bitter. <br><br>He could tell she was in pain, and he considered preparing a brew that might numb the pain... but decided against it for the time being. At least until he was confident there was no one following her. "Nothing more you will have" he snarled again, "I don't want your death on my conscience." He said as he turned and scanned the woods the way she had come. Was he going soft he wondered? No he wasn’t he decided. Of all the members of Fire and Steel she was one of the friendlier towards him. She had tried to make him feel welcome. He was evening the score by aiding her. <br><br>He caught the skin when she threw it back, and he took a drink before returning it to his belt. He watched her writhe in pain as she tried to stand. He had to admire her strength, most human females he had known would have just sat there until he offered to carry her, but Teagan was different. She was a strong woman. He turned and watched her as she continued pulling herself up and he listened carefully to her words. He realized it would take some time to cross into the woods back to human lands, especially in her wounded state. And farther up one went, more difficult it would be to cross the raging river ‘Callon’. <br><br>After watching her for a moment, he just looked around and noticed a large branch sitting upon the forest floor. He picked it up and twirled it in his hand. It was a good size for a walking stick he decided. He tossed it at Teagan before turning towards the way they needed to go. “It will be dark in a few hours, we must go now” he said giving her one last glance before moving through the brush. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 01:37:07</strong>
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				<em>Her death on his conscience? Since when did he have a conscience?</em> Teagan held her tongue. She was not about to surrender to death at his hands or anyone else’s. This life might not be the one she had dreamed of but she still wanted to live it. Gently she sifted her weight onto her bad leg and waited a moment for the leg to adjust. The terrain was rougher in the direction they were heading. She was about to look for a walking stick when he tossed on at her. Thank you would have been the proper thing to say, but it was not as if he were being nice or charitable. If she would have been with Fire and Steel her leg would have been healed immediately. Even though there was no visible gash she could have torn muscle. Even bruising was caused by internal bleeding. For its effect on her movement, it was a serious wound. <br><br>She picked up her backpack, bow and quiver of arrows. Her unsteady balance made her glad that he had walked on a head. She followed silently, as best she could anyway. She was not as gifted as an elf, but she knew the way to move her feet and avoided things that could crack or crunch. The newly converted walking aid she sat down gently and then leaned her weight on it. Though now she traveled with a companion, using the term loosely, she did not stop scanning the area and watching for signs that they were heading into trouble. <br><br>The silence gave her time to think, or better put, forced her to think about anything but the pain in her leg. She had been married almost 12 years. Donavan had a very healthy appetite where sex was concerned, yet she never got pregnant. And what would have happened to her children if she had them while she was here? Would they be destroyed with her home. Though they never existed tears rolled silently down her cheeks in morning for their deaths. In a way they did, for the thought came to her mind that she was probably barren. Her dream of a family now at an end, she had to face a life with Fire and Steel and a husband she was no longer certain she loved.<br><br>Valendir would not see her tears she wiped them a way. She would let him say when they stopped. If he did not want to camp on this side of the river they could make it to the other side, but she had to stop and see the damage of her leg. She just hoped he would stop soon.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>23-05-2006, 18:21:53</strong>
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				Valendir set an ambitious pace, at least he knew it would be for Teagan. He moved briskly and quietly for sometime. He knew the terrain well. He often had to slow down to allow her time to catch up. He could tell her leg was hurting, and it was slowing her down. He considered stopping a couple times, but then his memories came rushing back and he pressed on. Memories of his time with Fire and Steel came rushing back to him, even though he tried to suppress them. There was time he enjoyed Teagan’s company, usually when her mate wasn’t around. He wouldn’t have admitted it mind you, but he thought she was genuine… For a human. <br><br>At the pace they were moving, they wouldn’t make the river this evening, which he figured that was probably for the best. He knew this side of the bank would be safer… for both of them. He started searching for a clearing in which to stop for the night, somewhere safe which offered all the amenities of a decent camp. Still he glanced back at Teagan, and at times he noticed her wince in pain, it made him smile. “We will stop here” he said suddenly turning to face her. There was resentment in his voice, he’d be more than happy to continue, but he wanted her to know he was stopping for her benefit, not his. <br><br>“Perhaps in the morning you won’t slow us down so, and perhaps you won’t sound like BlackHorn cow in heat cutting through the thick brush…” he snarled at her. He knew she had done her best, and for a wounded human female her best had been impressive, but he could still hear her every footfall and every breath she took. He dropped his small pack upon the ground near a large tree. He moved towards the bushes and started gathering what wood he could find for the fire. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>24-05-2006, 04:56:09</strong>
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				He was moving with a vengeance. The pace made it hard for her to walk and breathe in total silence. She would never have thought that Valendir could possess so much spite. Yet she said nothing until he stopped. His face bore a cruel edge that made her wonder if she could truly trust him. If the silver haired elf thought she was going to cower before him, he was in for a surprise.&nbsp; She had long ago earned her right to stand beside any man. “Perhaps by morning you won’t sound like a braying ass.” She could have been cruder, but there were some qualities she did not want to share with men.<br><br>What had happened to him? There was no sign of the elf she had known him to be. “I will be at the river.” She stated flatly as he began to gather wood. Teagan felt no need to explain. They were two individuals traveling in the same direction. He was no longer the man who had been the cause of arguments between her and Donavan. <br><br>She hobbled through the brush doing her best not to break stems or dislodge stone. The long march had her leg so tense she could barely move it. The cold flow of the Callon would help the swelling go down, though she loathed the idea of submersing any part of her body in the frigid water. If Valendir did not make a fire there was still a chance she could die tonight, but if she did not do this, she would not be able to walk in the morning.<br><br>Slowly she unbuckled her armor. Most of her weight rested on her good leg; which was also tired and achy. She was not worried about being seen from the opposite side. No only had night fallen but she had found a nook in the river that avoided the stronger current. After her armor and light padding she went to the edge of the water and dropped straight legged on the bank. She stiffened a yelp as her backside hit the soft earth jarring her legs and spine. Removing her boots and pants were difficult but she refused to ask her forced companion for help. Once the struggle was over she slid herself into the water her body at first welcoming the cold and then being shocked by it. She figured five minutes would be all she could tolerate before she had to get out, warm up and try to get dressed again. It was enough to wonder if all the roads traveled in her life had been worth it. Her body began to shiver. Could she had been happier living the simple life of her parent?<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-05-2006, 14:03:54</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir continued to gather the wood, even as she shot an insult his way. He simply ignored her. He did not venture far; neither did he cut any live trees. There was plenty of dead wood upon the forest floor that he did not have to. “Do not go far, or else I cannot protect you….” He said with a smirk. It usually wasn’t in his nature to be rude. He was usually calm and kind. It was humans that brought this out of him, and he wasn’t proud of the way he treated Teagan, and yet it was coming naturally. He continued his way around the camp, coming in to drop off some wood and heading back. This also gave him a chance to check the area out. <br><br>As he neared the river he heard a bit of splashing. His elven eyes, even in the dimness of the dusk sky easily spotted her as she sank into the water. Her back was to him and as she soaked he remembered the things he’d liked about her, and the things he admired her for… A pang of guilt came over him, for the way he’d been treating her, but damn it she deserved it he tried to convince himself, they all did. He went back to the campsite.<br><br>He easily got the fire going, and some fresh food was simmering in a small pan. He also had a special tea boiling, something that would help ease Teagan’s pain and help her sleep. Why he was going out of his way to help her was still beyond him but he did nonetheless. His bedroll had been laid under a nearby tree. Valendir rarely slept, perhaps a few hours each night, but he preferred the bedroll to the hard ground. He unbuckled his pouches and laid them next to the roll along with his bow and quiver. He sat quietly by the fire, stirring the food and the tea, his cloak was wrapped tightly around him and his eyes stared into the fire….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>25-05-2006, 03:42:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The lower part of her body was numb from the mountain borne water. Her skin tone was most likely blue. The blood vessels had contracted to keep her warm blood close to the core of her body, which is what she needed to bring the swelling down. She managed to pull herself back on to shore; her bare legs quivered with out her control. Gathering her pants, boots and day cloak took almost all of her energy. Teagan had underestimated the strength she would have once the bath was over. Hindsight being what it was, she should have taken off her armor where Valendir had chosen for camp. Had she not been so angry at him, she probably would have. After wrapping the cloak around her legs she stuffed her boots and pants in her pack; then picked up her sword and bow. The armor and quiver would have to stay where they were until morning.<br><br>On numb feet she made her way back toward the camp. The fire was hidden from the river, but it was not difficult for it to find. It was no longer a concern to be quiet and she did not care what look the elf would be giving her as she came into the clearing. She paused to gently lean her bow against a tree and stuck the sword in the ground. The fire was her tool of life at the moment and that is what drew the gaze of her dark brown eyes. <br><br>Teagan sat before the fire latterly soaked to the bone. The material of her tunic had soaked up water until it was wet. Removing and sitting in front of the fire naked would have been the best thing to do, but she would rather catch her death than to give Valendir view of her private places. The day cloak was used to dry of with and rub circulation back into her flesh. Her skin was indeed bluish and her exhaustion apparent. The part of her leg that connected with the rock was a deep shade of black and blue; the color covering most of the top portion of her thigh. <br><br>This night would probably prove to be the most miserable of her life.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-05-2006, 13:41:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				By the time Teagan returned to the camp the fire was roaring, and giving off a comfortable heat. The food was to the side still smoking in the pan and the pot with the boiling water was rolling. He glanced up at her when she returned. She wore nothing but the cloak. Her armour was no where to be seen. Was she that tired and sore that she would leave her armour by the river bank? He wondered if perhaps this was the beginning of some type of attempt to seduce him… The thought amused him and a rare smiled crossed his face. <br><br>He moved to the food and prepared a plate for Teagan, mostly boiled vegetables with some dry meat and a few pieces of sweet elven bread. He then poured her a cup of the special tea he’d prepared. It was&nbsp; made of a few rare herbs and roots he’d picked up, it would numb the pain, and help her sleep and regain her strength. He moved over to her and held the dish and cup for her to take. “The tea is a bit sour, but it’ll help you regain your strength.” He considered just putting the plate and cup down on a nearby rock, and would if she didn’t take them from him. <br><br>He moved back to the opposite side of the fire and picked up his own plate. He used his hunting knife as a fork, his only real fork sitting in Teagan’s plate. He gazed at her over the firelight. She was a beautiful woman, even by human standards. Not the fragile, delicate beautiful he was used to in the elven maidens of these lands, but beautiful in a strong, radiant way. He remembered the way her smile and laughter would light up the taverns which they often frequented. That was before, and this was now. It felt like a lifetime had gone by since those days...&nbsp; “Tell me more about these men that attacked your village and burnt your home?” he asked. He decided he would try and be civil for the time being, and he tried to keep his eyes from the odd flash of skin that sometimes showed through the covering of her cloak.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>26-05-2006, 01:22:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Valendir fixed a plate of food, Teagan wiggled out of the wet shirt. It was not going to dry fast enough underneath the wet cloak. If she could have trusted him, she would have simply dropped the cloak and pulled the garment over her head. But as it was she removed one arm at a time and pulled it over her head while keeping the cloak over her shoulders and body. Why did men have to make things so bloody difficult?<br><br>Given their interchange today, she made no assumptions of him helping her beyond the protection that his physical presence would bring. Since she could not forage for food and could not hunt, not that she would be stupid enough to on this side of the river, she had expected her stomach to be empty far into the next day.&nbsp; She was surprised when he offered the plate and drink to her and it showed upon her face. “Thank you for your kindness Valendir, it is greatly appreciated.” There was no underlying tone in her voice. Her eyes held a small relief. Teagan was so hungry that she did not realize her thin cloak had slid off one of her pale shoulders. <br><br>She at slowly and took sips of the tea with out making a face, though it was sour. It had been her thought to go get her armor when her cloths had dried and she warmed up. Those thoughts were still the same, but now she added a small nap. Perhaps it was the tea making her so sleepy; then again the day had been exhausting but physically and mentally.<br><br>“I don’t have enough information to satisfy myself.” She shook her head and closed her eyes, mentally regarding herself with disgust. If she had not been so self indulgent in her woes this morning perhaps she could have circumvented the attack on the village this morning. Though likely nothing would have changed. It was still hard to think of herself as one person. “They looked like typical bandits but they acted like trained soldiers. And this mage had to be powerful.” She set the empty plate and up on the rock that he had eyed earlier and pulled the cloak back up over her shoulder. Sleep was going to be uncomfortable since the cloak only fell to the back of her knees when she was standing. It could not cover her up if she laid straight so she brushed away twigs and other bumpy things and curled up on the hard ground, putting her right arm underneath her head. With a yawn she continued. “Given the stage of destruction I saw. The village was attacked after dawn. I did not hear a sound, not the distress bell… no screams, no messengers. I stumbled into it by accident. The magic was strong hiding both sound and image. I wasn’t able to find the mage before I was attacked. We fled when I heard them call for arrows. I did not realize until my horse fell at my home that he had been struck.” Tears slid down her face at the memory of her horse. “I think the area was scouted because I should have passed the group that attacked my home when I traveled toward the town. We probably just missed each other because they had time to loot the place before burning it.” It was odd how she still felt sorrow for the horse but not her home. “I don’t know who they are or how many… I’m sorry.”<br><br>Teagen closed her eyes, the warmth of the fire on her face and the tea bringing her closer to sleep. She still shivered unable to warm up her entire body, but she knew she would survive the night. A little nap wouldn’t hurt then she would go get her armor. Just a little nap…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-05-2006, 15:47:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir may no reply to her words of thanks, nor did he react adversely. He continued to eat his meal while listening to Teagan’s description of the bandits who attacked the village. He couldn’t help but notice the way her cloak fell off her shoulder revealing the white skin. He stared at the skin for a moment before averting his eyes. He drank from the waterskin at his side before fixing his gaze upon his plate. <br><br>He cleared his head as he listened more intently on her description of the attackers. He wondered at how such an apparently large group of armed men, with a powerful Mage as an ally could have formed under the human’s noses… Another quirk of the humans he decided, the inability to see what’s right before them. Though the elves rarely cared who rules the borders into their lands, Valendir was concerned this group might not stop at razing the humans lands, they may try to strike into the elven realm. It would be good to gather as much intelligence on the mater as possible before returning to warn the Royalty. The fact that he might get to avenge himself in the process was a bonus…<br><br>He was surprised at her apology, she owed him none. If everything she said was true, she was lucky to be alive. Still, he did not acknowledge her apology. He placed his plate onto the ground and pulled his cloak tighter about his shoulders. He could tell she was getting drowsy, the tea was usually quite powerful and humans were quick to succumb to it. Her shoulders were beginning to slump and her eyes were slowly blinking. He stood slowly, glancing to his bedroll and then back to Teagan… <br><br>With a sigh he moved to her side as she started to slump. He gently picked up her, slowly and carefully so as to not waken her. He moved to and laid her gently upon the bedroll, making sure to secure her cloak around her naked form. He pulled his blanket over her form. He then moved to stoke the fire a bit before grabbing the plates and heading to the river where he proceeded to wash the dishes and cup. He then picked up her gear and moved it to the camp, setting it down next to her slumbering form. He then moved to sit with his back against a tree, facing the fire. His sword he laid right next to him. He bowed his head upon his arms and closed his eyes for a bit…..<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 04:04:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>Teagan did not stir when Valendir picked her up except to snuggle into his warmth. Her eyes did not open when he laid her down and she was in the same position when he finished his chores. The potion put her into a deep sleep and she did not stir until almost day break. Dreams where the first to visit her. At first they were good dreams. Her house in the middle of the woods was filled with children. Four she counted two with hair dark as wood, two almost white as snow. It would not occur to her later the Donavan also had dark hair. She played with them, laughing until they all were tired. Her heart could not have been happier. It was then she heard the screams of her children and smelled smoke. With out realizing that they were beside her, she ran out the front door only to see her home burning before her. Though the windows she could see her trapped children but she could not reach them. The fire was too hot. “I told you to forget children.” Donavan’s voice floated through the air though she could not see him. She bit her fist to stifle her cry and startled awake. <br><br>She was shocked to find herself on Valendir’s bedroll and underneath his blanket. Teagan was toasty warm and her face flushed from being toward the fire. She did not miss that she was still wrapped in her cloak. Her companion still slept in a position that could not have been comfortable. It would be best if she took the this time to get dressed and go get her armor. Gingerly she got up. The swelling on her leg had gone down though the color was still nasty. The pain was moderate and could be ignored, for a decent march at least. It was not yet ready for a full day’s walk. <br><br>As quietly as she could she retrieved her cloths from the other side of the fire. It seemed a better idea to dress where they were rather than move around and risk waking up. So she dropped the cloak exposing her toned body to the animals of the forest. She put her tunic on first; then slid on her form fitting pants. The shirt tail was pulled up by the motion giving one last view of her shapely behind before it disappeared underneath the fabric. She took her boots to a fallen log and put them on as she waited for the elf to wake up.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 07:19:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir stirred abit as he heard a branch snap. It was barely ahdible but it had been enough for a sound sleeper such as the elven ranger. Without moving he opened his eyes in time to see the white flesh of teagan's behind as it slipped into her form fitting pants. He smiled, but did not lift his head yet, he simply closed his eyes again for another minute as she put on her boots. <br><br>He finally raised his head and looked at the human woman. "How's your leg?" he asked, his voice still a little groggy as he stood and stretched. His knees ached from being in a rather uncomfortable squat for most of the night, but the numbness quickly faded. He reached down into his pack and retrived some of the left over food from the previous evening and more of the dried meat. He walked over to Teagan and offered some, as well as his waterskin.<br><br>"Eat, you will need your strength today, I hope to cross the river by noon..." he said before turning and heading in the direction of the river. <br><br>Once he was clear of the camp he removed his cloak and armour shirt. He looked back to ensure he was alone and slipped off the buckskin breeches that he wore. He drove the blade of his sword close to the water, not far from his reach. He then moved into the water to his waist. He sank slowly into the water for a few moments enjoying the freshness and cooling properties of the Callon. He knew he shouldn't tarry, but he also knew the Callon's waters would refresh his legs and arms and prepare him for the day ahead. <br><br>Finally he removed himself from the water and he stood naked upon the bank. He said a small prayer to the elven hero-spirits, who were venerated as gods, as the old gods were long forgotten to most modern elves. Finally he set himself to putting his breeches back on...<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 20:35:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It didn’t take too long after she was dressed for the silver haired elf to wake up. Perhaps she had made too much noise. All that did matter was that she was dressed before his eyes opened. Had she not been so upset with him yesterday, she would not care if he saw bits and pieces of her or not. “It feels much better, thank you.” It was an all encompassing ‘thank you’ though it seemed to have no affect on him at all, much like last night. When he offered her the food and water she just took then with out comment, though gratitude showed on her face. <br><br>She did not delay or dally in eating. In fact she put the food where she could easily reach it and began to pack up the camp. The bed roll was rolled up and set with his back. She put her armor on. The armor was made specifically for her and she continuously worked to keep her body the same size she was as the day it was made. Today and every day in the future she would not allow herself to think about what she would trade it for. She was old enough to know better than to live in dreams. After her meal she loaded herself with everything that Valendir did not carry with him and walked towards the spot she bathed yesterday; though she did not go to the river. Instead she stayed hidden in the brush, sitting against a tree and waited for him to complete his morning ritual. The tip of her bow showing above a shrub was the only indication of where she was.<br><br>The temptation to peak at the elf was a good one. It had been about three years since she had seen him last, but she well remembered what his bare chest looked like. The image of his wet silver hair flowing down his tapering back was as perfect as a painting. She had been the look-out and seeing him bathe had only been part of the job of checking the direction he was bathing in, but it did not appease Donavan’s temper. Her husband’s behavior while the elf traveled with them was so out of character. She still could not understand why he was so upset and spiteful. She had not treated Valendir any differently than she had any other new member and it was not as if the elf showed any attraction to her. Most likely that had been one sided. It did not matter much anymore Valendir had left them a few weeks later. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 21:16:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It did not take him long to dress. He quickly picked up his sandles and moved back towards the camp. He immediately noticed it was moslty packed, seems the girl might be feeling better after all. He stuffed his sandles into his pack and reteived his boots knowing they would suit him better for the coming trek. He finally tied his hair in back. <br><br>He finished packing his items, everything in its place. He adjusted his bedroll and paused for a moment as he looked at it... He glanced about not seeing Teagan. He brought the roll to his face and smelt it... There was no doubting the scent of a woman, particularly a human woman. He closed his eyes as he let the aroma take him away for just a moment....<br><br>Finally he repacked the roll, along with the remaining few items. He slung the pack over his shoulders along side his quiver. He attached his sword belt to his waist and picked up his bow. He looked around for Teagan, and it took him a moment, but his keen eyesight spotted her through the trees back towards the river... He leaned against a nearby tree, observing her for a moment wondering if she was praying or perhaps just enjoying a moment of peace... He decided to give a few extra minutes before interupting her solitude...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>30-05-2006, 05:31:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was so quiet that Teagan almost went back to sleep. It saddened her that it was moments of slipping into slumber that she found her mind released from the worries of the world. The time for savoring that feeling was all too short. She heard him leave the water and in her mind watched him dress. It was something to keep her mind occupied until he was able together her things and come her way. She did not doubt he would find her. He had to come this way anyway. The bow was not obvious but another archer should not mistake it for a branch. <br><br>She might have been too complacent. Her eyes should have been open watching her surroundings. After all another elf could decide to shoot her with out acknowledgement. So she was either in one of her fluctuating moments where she did not care for her life or she felt safe having Valendir around. She did not get that heated feeling that she used to when she had time to watch him, but then again thinking about Donavan did nothing for her either. She used to pray and could not think of anything to say, nor a god’s name to think upon. What was happening to her?<br><br>Teagan could not attribute the feeling of being watched to honed battle skills. She did not know what it was that made her open her eyes and wonder why he was watching her even though she could not see him. The situation had to be better today. With her weakening will towards life she was not sure she could handle constant hostility. Sighing she stood making use of the walking stick to push herself up. Her pack was already on one shoulder so she slipped the harness over the other shoulder and picked up her quiver of arrows.&nbsp; By time she was ready he was already beside her. <br><br>There was no time like the present to make peace. If she failed at least she knew she had tried at first chance. Still the words where not easy and she blushed unable at first to meet him in the eye. “I owe you an apology. You have treated me far kinder than I expected you to and I am sorry for my judgment of you, even if it was a silent one.” She bit her bottom lip as she often did when she was nervous and looked up into his dark blue eyes. For that moment she could not look away if she wanted to. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>30-05-2006, 14:39:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir Moved to her side as she began to rise from her rock and he watched her struggle with her pack. He would not help, not yet, not unless she asked for it, which he knew she was to proud to. When she spoke he was taken slightly by surprise, and he could tell she was being sincere. “You have no need to apologize…. Many years have passed, we are both different people now, both strengthened by adversity… We journey together out of convenience…” he simply said. Her eyes seemed to stare into his soul. He kept her gaze for a moment, and there was innocence in the way she bit her lip… It made her look very attractive to him… Attractive and sad….<br><br>He finally blinked and looked away, as difficult as it had been to. “We need to move if we’re to make the Ford of Gallastone by midday…” he said as he glanced at the position of the sun. He started moving towards the North East. There was a spot where the river narrowed before the cascades, in midsummer the Callon can be easily crossed, but this time of year the water was higher than normal. He knew the next possible crossing point would be a day’s journey, maybe more in Teagan’s condition… He glanced back to make sure she was following before continuing on.<br><br>His mind was wandering back to those days in the past, happier days. In those days he’d been consumed by wanderlust. He’d journeyed to the human lands in spite of the prejudice he’d herd of. He’d been asked to join Fire and Steel as a scout and archer and though he’d been initially surprised by the offer, he’d been honoured to fight along side such fine humans. Most of the time he’d been with them only a few of the other members had befriended him, or at least spoke kindly to him… And Teagan had been one of those. Even though many of the others ignored him she always tried to include him in all things…. But it all came back to that fateful day… The lynching, the beatings… He’d been lucky to survive. It had been hard to swallow, being abandoned and left to the mercy of an unruly mob… The years that followed only saw his hatred grow….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 04:08:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He had taken her apology well. That made her happy. Now there was a better possibility of them being civil though out the day. “If we need to make it to the Ford by midday, then we will make it.” She set off in the direction that they needed to go. Her footfalls, for now, silent. When she had crossed the log she had not noticed how unusually high the river was beneath it. The river could be heard from her house on a calm day but not seen. Her chores and moping had kept her from its shores. She had expected only to travel half a day and cross back over, but there was no swimming in armor and the Callon’s currents during flood were very strong. She had never traveled as far as the Ford but had to wonder how hard it would be to cross. After all they were heading into the mountains, the source of all the water. <br><br>As they walked she tried to think of a plausible purpose for an attack on Deer’s Glen. The village was in the corner , bordered on one side by the Elven lands and the mountains on another. They were decent at crops, often having surplus to market in other towns; but it was by no means remarkable. The livestock was maintained for the village alone: cows, goats, sheep… She did not know the layout of the Elven cities, but she knew that they were traveling north because the river only got wider going south. Could the mountains they were heading towards be the reason? Weren’t most metals and gems minded from mountains? There was no mining in the Obok Mountains at because it was a place considered sacred to the Dwarves and Elves… at least so the horror stories told to children at night.<br><br>“Valendir.” She said softly and waited for him to acknowledge her. She stopped for a moment to stretch her leg. Which required putting down her gear so it would not throw her off balance. The upper thigh had to be the hardest part of the leg to stretch, but with the aid of the walking stick she was able to stand on one leg and pull her heal to her butt. “Are their Dwarves in these mountains? I can’t think of a reason to attack Deer’s Glen but either as a staging point to attack your people or to search for precious metals and gems in the mountains.” Her face contorted in pain as she tried to undo the tightness that the past hour of walking had done. “The villagers were content with their quiet lives and had no desire to find out if their bed times stories where true.” She was not going to embellish on the stories and hoped he didn’t ask. “But people who don’t live here might see it as an untapped resource.”<br><br>Finally she put her leg down and sat on the ground. Kneading the damaged leg while waiting on his thoughts. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 15:57:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was surprised at her paced, they were making good time. Though they travelled in silence it seemed the tension had dissipated slightly… But only slightly. Elves have always been known for holding a grudge, and his had festered for several years. However he was beginning to wonder if she had been on it… Of a plot against him there was no doubt, but perhaps she had not been made aware…. The truth would come out, that he knew….<br><br>Valendir had lost track of time as he moved forward clearing a path for the wounded woman as best he could. He stopped and turned when she called his name. She looked like she needed to rest, and he could use a drink himself. Apparently she’d decided this was the rest spot as he noticed her drop her gear. He stepped back towards her until he stood close pulling out his skin and taking a long gulp as she spoke. <br><br>He didn’t know if he should answer her questions. Elves were naturally secretive, and their relationship with Dwarves, if it could be called that was even more secretive. He had to be careful, certain secrets were best kept as secrets, at least until such a time as he deemed her worthy of his trust, which quite frankly was still far away. He could give her some, if it would ease her mind… “There are Dwarves, yes. They stay mostly on the side opposite the great forest though they are rarely seen outside their mountain kingdom.” He said offering her the waterskin. As he listen to her speak he made out what she was thinking. He hadn’t given it much thought, still not certain this wasn’t some elaborate ploy against the elves. But he was starting to doubt his theory. She seemed really concerned with this attack…. <br><br>He kneeled down directly in from of her laying his bow on the ground. He reached for her thigh gently moving her hands away. Assuming she would let him he began kneading the flesh. “The mountains are rumoured to hold gems and jewels, but these are mostly myths. No one has ever found anything more than rock. Unless the stubborn dwarves found something… and if they did, they’re not telling.” He said as continued to knead the flesh of her thigh. He unclasped the buckle to the greaves in the area to have better access to the bruised skin before continuing…&nbsp; “Did anyone of great importance live in the area of your home?” he asked. He wondered if perhaps the attackers were looking for something or someone, and disguised the attack as one of common bandits….<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>03-06-2006, 04:40:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan accepted the water skin when he offered. At least he seemed to remember that she begged of no man. Even after many years of being in Fire and Steel she had felt that the men were trying to see how much she could take before breaking. Even Valendir had pushed her too hard yesterday. Yet she never complained and never asked for aid unless she was in dire trouble. It was something that Donavan never learned. She never asked his permission either.<br><br>After speaking she took a long draught. Her body silently thanked him for it though she said nothing while he contemplated on how to answer her. When the elf kneeled down in front of her and touched her hands she had to look at the ground to keep from showing her shock. She had never known him to really touch anyone unless it was necessary. And this wasn’t necessary; she could massage her own leg. Yet she moved her hands placing them behind her to give her support as she sat on the hard ground. His information made her theory unlikely but did not rule it out.&nbsp; She was so accustomed to reporting what she saw… not in figuring out the battle plan.&nbsp; It still upset her that she did not see enough. <br><br>She closed her eyes as he unbuckled her leg armor and began to massage her bruised muscle. The tight hold of her face was the only show of pain she allowed. But it did not take long before the knotted muscle began to release under his deft hands and her look softened. “No one. I chose this area because it should have been quiet.” She shook her head as she spoke, opening her eyes to look at him again. She was still affected by his exotic beauty after all these years. Now as then, she kept those thought far below the surface. “I am the only person with a reputation with in 50 marks of here.” It hard for her to think that someone would have hurt the people of the village because of a grudge against her. But it was as plausible as a reason as the ones she had thought of.<br><br>“thank you”. She said quietly as she placed her hands over his to stop the massage. Her hands lingered on his too long, noting how long and slim his fingers were. The expression she wore was haunted as she would most likely be until they knew what they were facing.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 18:28:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir kept on massaging her leg. He could feel the tightness and he tried to get it loosened slightly. He listened to her as she answered his questions. When his fingers kneaded the flesh under where the armour had been he was surprised at how soft her skin was. He’d never ‘touch’ a human woman, other than a friendly hand clasp or incidental touch. He had always assumed their skin would be rough… and perhaps hairy. Teagan’s soft skin was neither. It wasn’t quite as soft and delicate as an elven woman’s but it was nice nonetheless. He tried to show no emotion, which was quite easy for an elf. <br><br>“Does… Did your home sit alone, or were their others nearby?” he asked, trying to get his mind back on the correct path. If her house sat alone why even bother, and why send so many men he thought unless they knew she was there… Allot of information was missing, and he hoped they could gather more intelligence when they crossed the river. He subconsciously moved his hand higher along her thigh, though his mind was pensive as he stared at the ground. Finally he felt her touch on his hands and he quickly came out of it. He let go and stood, grabbing his waterskin from the ground and fastening it to his belt once again.<br><br>“We should get moving, we cannot afford to linger” he said distractedly picking up his bow. He glanced up at the sky to the West, “The sky darkens”, he pointed to the clouds. “We must make haste.” His mind was racing, the feel of her skin lingered on his hands before chilling them. He hoped she was ready, he needed to start moving, he needed to busy himself.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 03:14:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“It sits alone. Just far enough from the other side of the river, that the river cannot be seen. Too close to Elven lands for most.” Her words were slightly still as she noticed that he now had an aversion to touching her. Why had he even bothered if he was going to react as if he had just touched someone who was diseased? She lowered her pants leg and began to buckle her armor back on. He could wait on her or he could leave, not that she was going slowly.&nbsp; “They did send a small group to my home. It cannot be seen from the trade road. They had to have directions.” <br><br>Teagan stood unaided. Her own expression was nonchalant. There was no need to take his desire to be away from her personally. She tried to convince herself. After all he was an Elf and she was human. But it still upset her that it was even a factor between them. She had always treated him the same as anyone else. “Lead the way.” She said in the same soft voice that stopped him earlier. She stood on her own, her leg feeling better for now. <br><br>Valendir was correct, clouds where gathering and they were dark with midsummer moisture. When it rained it would rain hard. The storms here were never predictable. Some where quick while others lasted most of the day. Teagan was not looking forward to being wet again, but it seemed they had no choice. She kept up with him as she could. Their pace reknotting the muscle in her leg. It had been burning in pain for a while when she felt the first large drop splash off her armor and onto her face.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 15:37:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As they moved along the brush two things seemed to be crowding his mind. The obvious was the theories forming as to what the bandits had wanted. They had known she was there and took steps to eliminate her quickly. They had done their homework. Without any obvious resources in the area the purpose for the attack shouldn’t be that difficult to figure out. Assuming she wasn’t the target, then the only obvious one would be they were looking for a staging ground for a more nefarious purpose. But what would that purpose be? They could use the Callon to move troops quickly down river, but that was in the opposite direction from the mountains. Perhaps they were thinking of attacking the elves, but that was laughable, what hope would these human bandits have against the might of the elven armies.<br><br>The other thoughts that were crowding his mind were setting alarms off in his head. He could still feel the soft skin of Teagan’s leg on his fingers. He’d felt something there, and he was somewhat ashamed of himself for feeling it. He brought his fingers to his nose and he thought he could smell her lingering scent. He reached down and pulled out his gloves. He knew it was too warm for gloves but he had to do something. After slipping his gloves on he seemingly increased his pace, hoping to place some space between the two. <br><br>He felt the first drops of rain upon his head and reflexively looked to the dark grey sky. The darkest clouds were nearing. Luckily they were almost at the river; in fact he could see their destination ahead through the thinning trees. He crossed the threshold into the clear, the sound of the river was almost deafening here. It was as he’d feared, the river was even higher than he had suspected. This would not be an easy task. He looked back to make sure Teagan was soon to emerge. <br><br>Once she did, he pointed to a statue, overgrown with shrubs and ivy type trees. The Ford of Gallastone was a special place in the elves history. The river widened slightly which usually caused the water to lower allowing the elves to cross over the usually exposed stones. “This location is sacred to the elves…” he yelled over the noise of the river. “Here a small band of elves held back an army of humans during the Great War. Most likely you are the first human to step foot on this bank.” He finished. He moved along the rocks to the narrowest part of the river. The rocks had become very slick from the rain, which was now coming down a bit harder. He raised the hood from his cloak, hoping to keep the water from his eyes. As he neared the area he turned back to Teagan, “Do you require rest, or can you wait till we’ve crossed?” he asked, leaving it up to her to decide. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>08-06-2006, 03:10:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was punishing her again. It felt like she were a demon he was running from, but in the short time she had known him, Valendir had never shown signs of being a coward even when the odds were obviously against them. After marks of following him at what was for her a brutal pace, she had to wonder what god had something against her.&nbsp; The attraction that she had felt for the elf long ago had not gone away. That was obvious to her when he had massaged her leg. Her body had begun to respond to it the way it would to a lovers touch. She had thought she hid it well, even though she and Donavan had argued about Valendir. Teagan had always assumed it was because he was an elf and a handsome man. Her husband, though handsome was still insecure about his looks.<br><br>She had never been able to validate her attraction to Valendir. She had a handsome husband who usually had required her attentions in a sexual manner nightly with the exceptions of her moon flows. But her desires for Donavan had diminished the moment she had laid eyes on the silver haired elf. Everything about him was graceful as if watching a dream at a distance. <br><br>Perhaps it would make as much sense if she blamed it on her grandmother. The precious woman had hated Donavan with a passion. She thought he was the reason that she was leaving home. It might have been true in part, but she had been gifted with talent when it came to a bow and she wanted to see where it would take her. The morning of her wedding day her grandmother had told her… “I would see you bear the child of an elf before you carry that boy’s child in your womb.” Teagan did not believe in such curses at the time, but it seemed that it foretold her childless future.<br><br>The dark-haired archer needed to be rescued from her thoughts, but as she caught up with her companion the task she faced was not a much better option. She could see the place they needed to cross, some of the stones were a few inches under the fast moving water. They were at a distance that might be a slight challenge in armor if they were high and dry. But she was wearing armor and her leg was knotted and stabbing with pain from the rush to get here. How much did she have to do to survive when she did not feel like the struggle was worth it?<br><br>“Its beautiful” She said absently. She did not sound like she meant it, but she did. The place was so natural it even felt sacred. “I will keep the secret.” She said dryly, her focus was more on convincing herself she wanted to go across despite the pain in her leg and the rain which was slowly growing harder. “I am fine.” She lied. “We must cross now or all the stones will be submerged after the storm.” The limb he picked up for her as a staff was going to be very useful now. There was no point in waiting, her gear was as balanced as it was going to get. Using the staff as a balance, she began to cross the river. “If I fall DO NOT try to save me.” The river on either side was still deep and the armor would made her sink fast.<br><br>Ooc: if you want you can have her slip, fall or anything requiring saving… or you can have her cross with out incident.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-06-2006, 16:18:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir watched Teagan as she seemed to consider their situation. It did not take long for her to come to the same conclusion he had. They needed to cross at once. The longer they delayed the more dangerous it would be. He moved along the rocks near the bank till he arrived at the crossing point. He gestured for her to follow closely. He unslung his bow and took out some elven rope, which he fastened to the end of a long arrow, Taking careful aim he fire the arrow across the river till it embedded itself into a large tree. He pulled on the rope, making sure it was secure. “This should make it a little safer” he muttered, just loud enough so she could here. <br><br>Had he been alone, this would not have been a problem, and he wouldn’t have been worried. Though it did not show he was worried. He was not alone, he had a human female with a bad leg along with him, and she did not appear to want to remove her armour. This complicated matters. Exactly why this worried him was a mystery. She was just another foolish human, what did he care if she fell and was washed away? It would mean he’d be back home quicker and he wouldn’t find himself constantly waiting for her to catch up. He quickly moved to secure his bow and the remainder of his equipment. <br><br>Glancing back at her, hoping she was ready he listened to her warn him about not saving her… He just shook his head subtly before taking the first steps to cross. Typical human he thought, always barking orders and trying to tell others what to do… or in this case what not to do. <br><br>The going at first was slow but relatively easy. It was near the other bank that the water rose and flowed at increased pace. That would be the challenge. Using the rope also made the task quite a bit easier. He glanced back occasionally, making sure she was following. “Stay close” he yelled over the rushing water, “closer still!!!” he barked. Once she had caught up he started moving again. As they neared the far bank he was starting to breath easier, but just for a moment… <br><br>He wasn’t sure what had happened but the rope in his hands had quickly tightened and that moment was followed by a splash. He spun his head just quickly enough to see Teagan go under, gasping for breath. Within a second he found himself in the deep water. It happened so quickly he wasn’t sure if he’d jumped in after her or if the rope had pulled him in. With his head above the water, one hand still on the rope he searched for Teagan. After a few seconds he was being pulled downstream and towards the bank, and that was when he caught sight of her. He was quickly under and had grabbed her armour by the neck and he pulled her towards him and in turn the bank. As if it were some kind of poetic justice, his right leg near the hip smashed into a large rock that jutted just above the water. Fortunately he retained a grip on the rope and held on until the flow has washed him ashore. He had managed to pull Teagan atop and over him and he was relieved when he heard her cough up water. <br><br>He just laid there for a few moments, the rain coming down in a steady downpour, his face contorted in pain with one hand still wrapped around Teagan’s shoulders….<br><br><br>ooc: couldn't resist... had to be the hero&nbsp; ;))
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 03:25:05</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The arrow and rope was a brilliant idea… One she would have had, if she had rope. She did not reply to his statement on safety. He was irritated from being around her, she was not daft. Teagan was not going to be the gushing grateful female or one that was a hindrance. Let him think what he wanted it was not as if she could change his mind anyway. As she followed him out onto the rocks all other worries except crossing the river safely left her mind. The rope was now secured to trees on both sides of the river and she had the staff. The pack and her armor were not a hindrance at all.&nbsp; It was the wet rocks and her stiff leg that were an issue.<br><br>Valendir was not even a thought in her mind until he yelled at her. He wanted her closer and she moved to him. The rocks were under water now, which reached her mid calf. Her footing was sure, but her eyes where now off the river. She did not see the large tree limb floating in the water tip on a rock and turn. The current of the river brought it into her bad leg pushing a branch into the damaged area. Her balanced was lost so she let go of the rope. She did not want to risk pulling her companion in the water as well. One of them needed to see what was going on. He needed to protect his people. It was the staff that caught the rope when her weight went towards the water. She let it go as well hoping that the rope would hold in the unexpected strain.<br><br>The water was cold. So cold it shocked her. She forced her self to take a breath before she went under. Her mind was surprisingly clear. It was then she realized that she did not care if she lived or died because she had nothing in her heart she felt the need to live for. She struggled for life because it was taught to her that she should do so. If she struggled and lost then at least her death would still have honor. The water tugged her under and down stream. She had to get the armor off so she could swim when meant she had to let her bow go. That hurt her almost as much as the death of her horse. Her father had paid more than she would ever know to get her that bow. If it was not made by Elven hand then it had been made by a human of legendary skill. It was unadorned and unmarked as to the maker but the craftsmanship made it prized to any archer privileged enough to touch it. The trouble it got her into and out of would be enough stories to tell and infant each night well into adulthood.<br><br>Tears would have been in her eyes had she not been under water as she began to unbuckle her golden toned armor. She felt her body stop and strain against the water and realized he had grabbed her armor. How dare he risk himself! She kicked angrily in the direction he was going fighting to keep her drag on him a minimum. The effort to swim was tiring and took more oxygen than calmly undressing, but when she tried to breathe she only got water. It was strange how drowning a few moments ago gave her no alarm yet now she was terrified. Her lungs felt like they were being burned from the cold water. She never felt him drag them up on to the bank, much less over him until she slid to his side. <br><br>It was not until her lungs tried for another breath and forced up the water than she had inhaled that she felt the hard ground beneath her. She almost choked as the water ran out of her mouth, but she managed to turn her head and do it away from him. Once she could breath she laid her head on his shoulder, not caring that the chainmail shirt made for an uncomfortable pillow. Her arm rested across his stomach and she had to clinch her fist to keep from reaching for his hand. The need for comfort was almost overwhelming at the moment, but her horse, home and bow where lost. They only thing they could do was continue on. In the rain and cold cloths they would die. They would need to find shelter and build a fire. She hoped he knew this side of the river as well because it was more north than she had ever been.<br><br>“I might thank you for my life later.” She spoke making no attempt to move. “For now we need to move or our bodies will get cold.” Gingerly she moved care for herself and him since she did not know if he were hurt. Teagan pulled herself up by a tree and stared back at the river that she had hoped would take her life.<br><br>ooc: I so loved that post :-*
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 19:26:57</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The thing he was most aware of was the pain in his leg. The second thing was Teagan draped across him. She had her arm across his stomach and he had his arm across her shoulders. In any other situation he might have said something, but for the time being he simply laid still, his eyes closed feeling the pouring rain over his body. He didn’t mind the rain; he was already drenched after all. He rolled his head and noticed she was still alive. He would have denied it if asked, but the feel of Teagan’s body pressed against his felt very good. It had been a long time since he’d felt the closeness and intimacy of a lover. Somewhere inside of him he was grateful she was OK. He heard her speak, and though he opened his mouth to reply, he thought better, and remained silent.&nbsp; <br><br>Once she was up he rolled over onto his knees. “Yes, we should find shelter” he said. He could feel the pain in his leg. The upper leg was starting to swell, but his breeches hid any sign of a wound. He stood, flinching immediately when he put weight on his bad leg. He let out an elven curse, in a near forgotten language of ancient times. He wasn’t sure what it meant but saying it felt good. He was mad at himself for being so careless. The sudden soft spot in his heart was quickly turning to rock when he saw the irony of it all. He moved towards the thick brush limping, his face grimacing in pain. He hadn’t moved far when his foot caught something. The heavy rains had washed a bit of the mud and a skeleton was revealed. He glanced back at Teagan. This was no doubt a victim of Gallastone. He moved around it heading into the brush. <br><br>“There is a cave not far. It’s no more than an hour’s walk. Unfortunately it’s in the opposite direction that we want to go, however… Under the circumstances” he glanced at her leg, refused to acknowledge that his was hurt, “I don’t think we have any choice in the matter…” He unslung his bow and began moving towards the mountains. His movements were not nearly as quick as before, and the hour’s walk turned into two. He pointed upwards on the nearby hill. “There… Humans had built a small outpost here before attempting to cross the Callon, using the mountains as natural defences.”&nbsp; He said in a low voice moving very close to her, their bodies practically pressed together. Human-made stone defences could be seen crumbling but they still offered some protection near the mouth of a natural cave. The slope wasn’t too steep but the rain had made it treacherous. “Careful, who knows what may have taken refuge in the ruins” he said. He didn’t want to scare her, not that he thought she’d be scared. Very few beings knew of this place so it was likely uninhabited, but it didn’t hurt to be ready just in case…<br><br>OOC: Thanks !!! I enjoyed reading your part, very well done.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 18:27:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was hurt… Teagan continued to look at the river while he swore. She did not want to look, did not want to see him hurt. There was a fear that it would be too terrible for them to bear. If they had only a short distance left to travel she would have confidence in her ability to bring them both home alive. However they were many miles away from no where in terrain that was difficult to traverse with wounded legs. Both of them were soaked to the bone in mountain borne water and the rain that currently showered them. Were they were going to find shelter with dry wood for a fire she did not know. Finally she turned as she started to walk. He could not be that bad if he stood and moved, but now she saw the ironic poetry of the situation. Valendir’s wound was the same as hers. The limp she saw when he moved, the flash of pain across his face as he nearly tripped over when she a moment later discovered to be a human skeleton. She passed it with out a second thought.<br><br>Teagan smiled when he told her they would have to go further north for shelter. They were already a day’s walk from Deer’s Run. The swim in the river and his injury would cost them at least another day. The attackers could be gone by now, but she knew that if they had to camp with out drying that they would be sick, if not dead by morning. Both of them were excellent trackers, if their target moved she and Valendir would find them. Yet it was the fact that he was silently blaming her for the need to go to shelter when he obviously was injured that amused her. “Aye, We do not. Lead the way.” She silently followed. The slower pace was good for her leg but bad for her body. She shivered in the wet cloths, not able to get warm or dry from the continuous rain. Now their distance was what she chose it to be, so she was not too far behind. <br><br>When he stopped she stopped beside him. She had not expected him to move so close to her, even less so to press his body into hers from behind. Only one other time had they touched in this way, when he was giving her an archery lesson she had asked for, but did not really need. At least her blood felt warm now, but she had to resist the surge to press back against him. Forcing herself to follow his hand she looked were he was pointing. The ruins would do if it had dry ground and something to use for wood both of them needed to be off their feet and she could no longer handle the feeling of his hips against her bottom. Why was she attracted to someone who obviously did not like her? <br><br>“I will check it out. You were kind enough to go slow for me this time so I will take point and let you rest.” It was the best she could do to keep from acknowledging he had the fresher injury. The climb would definitely hurt the both of them, but if anything was waiting for them up at the top she would have less pain to focus past and fight. Teagan checked her sword to ensure it would come out of its scabbard should their be a need and then began the hill, Trying to discern rocks from mud and hoping that where she chose to place her feet was stable. A few times she had to contract her legs muscles in a pattern she would never be able to remember to keep her balance. Other times she ended up on all fours. But finally she reached the top. Her breathing was a little heavy but her body felt warmer. <br><br>She drew her sword and slowly made her way through the opening of the ruins. Once there had been a door but all that was left was iron straps on the ground. The place was better than she expected. The rugged wooden furniture had been shoved back against a far wall. No doubt they were rotting, but it was dry wood for a fire. The ground was damp from the rain, but she expected the cave would be better as long as it did not have bats. There were signs of the place being used… perhaps a year or more ago, but there were no signs of trouble. She continued back into the cave. It was hard to see until her eyes adjusted to the low light but the ground was dry. The screeches of bats could be heard but at greater distance back. Their droppings were not on the floor here. Maybe they had a better way out. She saw that someone had definitely been there. She could not tell if it been elf or human. But the stack of firewood and remains of a long cold fire were welcome.<br><br>Teagan turned around to go tell Valendir that at least at this moment the gods were being kind to them. <br><br>OOC: I left it open for him to follow her up… if you wanted. If you do not… she will stop at the top of the hill and tell him it is ok to come up.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>11-06-2006, 15:38:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He'd not realized how close to Teagan he had actually gotten. He was pressed against her, her firm buttocks touching his hip. The sudden warmth of her body made it easy for him to pretend not to noticed but he had, and he silently hoped they would remain that way for a minute... But she had other plans...<br><br>Before he could protest she began making her way up the mountain. Had he not been injured he may have taken insult to the whole thing but as it was he said nothing. He sat back for a moment against a large rock laying his bow besides him. He felt his leg, and it had swollen significanlty. Elves had great endurance for many things, but there was one thing he couldn't deny... They bruised easily. He knew his hip must be a colouful blue/black/purple by now. Again he cursed the river. It was no doubt her fault, again. Her carelessness had caused the predicament they were in. Humans were so clumsy.<br><br>As she neared the apex of her climb he stood and grabbed his bow. He began making his way towards the cave, using the same path Teagan had taken. He did not rush, lest he fall and worsen his condition. He moved slowly and surely, one foot at a time, examining the ground and the ruins that now surrounded him. He gave her sign that he was OK and would be there in a moment. He gazed at the sky, but the clouds showed no signs of clearing anytime soon. <br><br>As he reached the top he said not a word, only examining the entrance a bit before moving quietly inside. His elven eyes adjusted to the dimness immediately, and as Teagan had indicated it was safe. He glanced back at her, "this should do nicely, I suppose...." he said as he moved to a far corner, leaning his bow against the wall and removing his pack and other gear. They needed to get a fire going quickly so he set himself to moving some of the dryer wood in a pile towards the center of the room. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>12-06-2006, 04:49:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan went back through the ruins and into the cave. She stopped first and picked up a couple of the crude chairs. As she expected they were rotting, but they would help dry out clothing anything else that needed dried. By the time Valendir made it to the cave she had already shed her armor. <em>He supposed.</em> well one thing was definite a male being an ass had nothing to do with their race. Teagan just rolled her eyes at his approval. It was just a matter of time before she either told him off or just punched him one good time. <br><br>Once he got the fire going and she could see better she set her cloak out to dry. Without his permission she took his bedroll, unfurled it and placed it across a couple of chairs as well. When he looked at her crossly she just stared back at him… wondering why she could not stay mad at him. Why was it more important how he looked by the glow of the fire, that his leg was injured or that his hair was probably tangled and she knew she had a comb? Her mind was a mass of confusion and he deserved that wound for rescuing her when she did not want to be rescued. <br><br>“You should check your leg.” She said softly. Her eyes left his and directed themselves to the fire. The flush on her skin could be attributed to the warmth the fire created, but it was the memory of him bathing all those years ago that added color to her pale skin. She picked up a jeweled comb that the bandits had so kindly saved for her and began the hard task of unknotting her hair. “I can turn my head if required or I can help you tend to it.” Again she spoke softly, but she did not look at him, least she risk showing her attraction. She had not meant anything sexual in her offer and did not want him to take it that way.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>12-06-2006, 18:57:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir watched her as she moved the old rotten chairs as he started striking his flint. With all the dry wood in here it didn’t take long for him to have a good flame going. A minute or so later the fire was already raging and he could feel the welcome warmth against his skin. He removed his cloak and tunic, as well as the undershirt below it and placed it all on the back of one of the chairs. He could sense the irritation within her, good he thought; this was her fault after all. <br><br>He was about to protest when she grabbed his bedroll, but saw what she was trying to do and simply turned back to the rest of his wet gear, taking each item out and laying them to dry on the mostly dry floor. He took a small pot from his pack and put enough water in it for two cups of tea. Luckily his herbal pouch was water resistant and the herbs within had survived the human inflicted ordeal. He set the pot near the fire, knowing a hot herbal tea would help ease some of the pain. He removed his boots and placed them near the fire, next taking out his sandals in case he needed them. Finally he glanced over at the girl as she had set about laying out her gear. Her wet clothes clung to her body and the glow from the fire made some of her things almost see through. She did have a magnificent figure for a human. He suddenly noticed a stirring within him and he found himself turning away before she could see the effect she was having on him. <br><br>At her suggestion disappointment crossed his face. He’d hoped she hadn’t noticed the extent of the pain he’d been in even though he realized she’d have to have been blind not too. By the firelight alone it was easy to see the swelling on the leg through the breeches. “My leg is fine.” He said, not rudely, but yet sternly. He didn’t need her help. He moved to drop a few of the herbs into the water as it started to boil before moving to his pack. He found a loincloth that didn’t seem as wet as the rest of his clothes. He looked back and hesitated for a moment. Finally he just turned his back to Teagan and the fire and removed his breeches. He stood naked for a moment, letting the heat from the fire dry the back of his legs a bit. Finally he began wrapping the cloth around his crotch area. The cloth only covered what it needed to. He moved into the light to inspect the bruising of his leg. He just shook his head as he examined the interested green/purples/yellow that had become his thigh. It was worse than he had initially thought. <br><br>He moved to retrieve the pot and he poured half into a cup. He could use the pot as a cup itself so he limped across the room and offered the real cup to Teagan, “Drink this…. It will help with the cold, and may prevent other… complications” he said looking into her eyes, his looking very tired. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 01:10:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan would verbally deny her attraction to Valendir as she always had done, but she had to admit to herself that now it was more… intense. Before she was simply admiring a man of beauty who as far as she could tell had similar life philosophies as her own. She found her peace in unaffected nature. Even when their hearts were beating fast and hard with adrenaline, neither of them had ever enjoyed their battle high or relished in the kills that they had to make. She had never heard him brag or ask for praise when he made a difficult shot and saved someone’s life. He held on to the aura of being male and never had to prove it. Donavan had to prove it every minute of every hour of every day. Until now she would not have described her attraction to the elf as sexual… even it had not been totally true.<br><br>She could not keep her eyes from glancing at his form. She looked at the fire and continued to comb her hair when he denied that his leg was injured. He had a pride that she did not want to take away from him. At some moments he was the nice man she remembered at other times it seemed she was the cause of a wound he was trying to be rid of. All she wanted was for this to be over. To wake up on a warm summer day in a home in the woods with the laughter of children as her music.<br><br>Again her eyes left the fire as she watched him remove his breeches. She could not help but to smile in admiration of his round bottom and strong legs or of the anatomy that she caught glimpses of when he moved. He was gorgeous. Teagan gave silent thanks that her signs of arousal could be explained away… her flush by the fire, her tightened breast by the damp cloth she wore and of course the heat at the juncture of her legs could not be noticed. When he dressed and turned she brought her eyes back to the fire, still combing her hair even though the tangles were gone<br><br>Valendir handed her a cup of tea. She put down her comb to take it, but his blue eyes gave her pause… broke a spot of her heart. Cupping the cup with one hand she put the other hand gently on his wrist; letting her fingers touch the fleshy pad of his palm. Her brown eyes glanced at the fire before gathering courage to look at him again, also weary, pleading. “Can we please stop this hostility between us? For today at lest until morning… can we forget that you are an elf and I am human and just pretend to be two people who, for the moment, need to rely on each other?” Her hand softly caressed the inside of his wrist hoping he would not pull away or mock her with an answer. “We both need rest, let me comb your hair and we can talk about things that do not matter.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 18:50:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was unprepared for her touch when it came. He wasn’t expecting it. His eyes locked with hers and he couldn’t pull away though a warning sounded in his mind. He had gotten closer than he had intended and her body was having a certain effect on him, one he knew would become obvious soon enough. Her voice was soft, almost caring and the caress of her hand upon his wrist was making it difficult for him to think. His eyes focused upon her lips, those delicate, full lips that suddenly had a dark crimson hue, perhaps a trick of the fire. Her words were truthful, they needed to rest, the river had taken allot out of them both. Without so much as a word he finally did pull away, backing slowly. He retrieved a bowl and his herbs before moving back to her side. Again, he glanced down at her body, being obvious about it and he felt sensations running through him. It had been some time since he’d felt the touch of a woman. But Valendir's will was strong, stronger than this human woman's no doubt. He could hide his arousal and resist her if she was trying to seduce him. Still, he felt a longing to be touched... <br><br>He sat very near her and reached back for the tie that held his badly dishevelled hair. It was a knotted mess. He hated the length of it, but amongst the elves the lengthy hair was common. Only the disgraced or criminals were forced to cut theirs short. After the mess at the river much silt and dirt had made its way within. He welcomed her invitation to comb it, if only to feel her fingers upon it. “An evening of civility then…” he said taking a drink of the strong tea. Just a sip was already making him relax. This tea from a rare herb helped the body heal, and had the side-effect of relaxing the body. There were some rumours that it could be used as an aphrodisiac, and that it could increase fertility, but these rumours he rarely paid attention to. He poured some tea into the bowl and added a powder mixing it together to form a thick past. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Mr. Bravo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 00:18:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was much about her life that she did not understand anymore, if she ever did. The feeling of his skin underneath her fingertips became the only sensation she was aware of. There was a fragile peace in that touch, at least in her mind; but looking into his eyes she could tell it was not the same for him. For a moment she thought the attraction might be mutual, yet obviously unwanted. If he was attracted to her and angry at himself for being so, it explained much of his anger. She could not fault him for it. Despite all, she wanted this attraction. Even though it would surely prove to be vain, it was the only thing she could feel or focus on with out falling apart. If he denied her request, she would have nothing left. <br><br>When Valendir pulled away from Teagan with out replying she lost hope and looked at the fire to hide her emotions. She did not look at him to see that he sat next to her; her only vision being the dancing flames. When he spoke, she hardly caught his words. Slowly she turned her head and was relieved his back was too her because her relieve was too easy to see. The smile on her face could not be hidden. Quietly she slipped off her boots and laid them aside; glad she did not have to continue on in them while they were wet. She took the comb and slid up close to him. Her left leg curled around him and she tucked her foot against his thigh. Knot by knot she slowly worked on his hair. Longer sections of hair were becoming tangle free and trying. She could not resist letting the silky strands fall through her fingers or soothing it down his back. There was no sexual intent when she let her hand slide from his hair to his skin; she just could not resist the temptation. “Do Elves tell stories of humans to their children?” she paused for another sip of tea and then continued to work on his hair. It was very warm and relaxing… and nice to touch another after so long.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 18:54:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He had seated, and had waited in anticipation for Teagan to make the next move. His mind raced. A war was raging within him. His common sense wanted him to move away, there was no way he could be attracted to this human… It was a grave dishonour in high elven circles to have those kinds of affairs with humans, with the guilty being cast out of the elven community in general. But though his mind denied the attraction his body did not. For an elf who was always confident and determined, sure of his every action and solid as a rock he was reacting in ways he was not accustomed to. His body trembled slightly, he could feel sweat forming at the temples and other, more obvious signs of attraction were making themselves apparent. It was good that his back was to her. <br><br>He continued stirring the white paste, watching the woman from the corner of his eye. He felt her slide in next to him, and he found himself leaning into her a bit, glad for the warmth of her body. He could feel the comb slide through his hair, it was a good feeling. He’d been out in the woods for some time and the hair had become a chaotic mess. When the paste was ready he reached for the pot, and he drank from the tea, feeling its relaxing effects flowing down his body. He felt the touch of her fingers on his bare skin and he closed his eyes, as the battle in his mind began in earnest but her soft voice brought him back. He turned his head slightly, the light from the fire creating shadows upon her still damp clothing. “There are stories of course” he began as he scooped a generous amount of paste into his hand. He placed the glob upon his thigh. “To the elves in the deep cities, the human’s are spoken off as if they are mythical creatures, short lived and barbaric…. But with great lust for life.”&nbsp; He continued as he scooped the remainder of the paste and gestured to her thigh, he’d made enough of the ointment for both their wounds, but he needed access to her bare leg to apply it.<br><br>“In the area’s closer to the border, they are referred to as vile creatures of evil with a different kind of lust, a lust for power and destruction. These stories are born of an ignorance and lack of understanding, but probably not far off the mark….” He said, not meant as an insult, but simply an opinion formed from experience…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>15-06-2006, 00:32:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the tea began to affect her, she felt as if she were in a dream. Not mind altered, but relaxed in a manner that only rarely did sleep allow her to go.&nbsp; It was sad that as intelligent races the human and elves where they still lived in ignorance of each other. She wanted to know what they were like. She wanted to know what he cared about.&nbsp; He motioned toward her leg and she frowned. Being in wet pants was not the most comfortable thing, but the most modest. The damp cloth clag to her like a second skin so she had no choice but to stand and take them off. She slid back from him slowly and stood with out aid. Her boots she had taken off after she moved the chairs into the cave, so all she had to do was slid the cloth down her legs and step out like she did every night of her life. <br><br>Teagan did not look at Valendir as she slid off her breeches. Part of her hoped he watched, but it was best that she think of herself as a warrior in the presence of one such as herself.&nbsp; She was already so emotionally vulnerable and the elf deserved better that an unstable person latching onto him for feeling. Now she wore nothing but her shirt. It stopped exactly at the bottom of that sacred juncture that could accept the spark of life. After taking a few steps she exposed her slow healing bruise. It a merge of purple, black, green and yellow. Her thoughts went back to him touching her earlier this morning, how his hands had strengthened a long burning fire she was still trying to put out. Having him&nbsp; touch her was likely not a good idea… but it was what she wanted. <br><br>“Most of us are not bad.” She said to distract herself as he touched her leg. “It is normal for anyone to dream of more than they have. “You start with live with your parents and dream of having a place of your own like they do one day. You get that home and think how wonderful it would be to have a garden. Your garden provides food for your family and you think would it not be nice to have extra to sell at market so I can buy a better pot for the stove…” The distraction was not her voice but his hand as he smoothed the paste over the bruise. “Not everyone desires more than they can possibly use, but everyone dreams of something better… is this not true among your people?” She knew she dreamed of something she could not have… many things she could not have and she did not know how to stop those dreams.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>15-06-2006, 18:08:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He reached for his tea and took another drink as she started removing her breeches. He turned slightly to watch thinking she’d have something underneath. As soon as he noticed she didn’t he turned his head quickly. He hadn’t wanted to…. She was beautiful, even more so at the sight of her near naked form. He gestured for her to return to her seat behind him. He needed to hide his arousal. Seeing her in front of him might be too much, and yet he wanted to feel her heat against him. Once she was seated again he took her leg and moved it atop his. He began applying the ointment. <br><br>He was starting to think the tea was a bad idea. He could barely contain his attraction to her. He was slightly embarrassed. He wanted to stand and leave the cave, to breathe some fresh air, but he could still hear the rain outside, and his body did not want to move. It wanted to feel more of her. Both hands were now rubbing her bruised leg, the pain in his long forgotten. Her skin was soft, much softer than he had imagine. He starred into the fire as she started speaking again, his hand edging its way higher upon her leg. He was relaxed, almost too much so. He felt his self control slowly slipping. <br><br>“I seek not to offend, but in my experience, as someone on the outside looking in, I’d say most of your kind are.” He started, “Especially in your profession” his eyes didn’t even blink as if entranced by the flames. His fingers moved again a bit higher on her leg… “Most elves are content with there lives, they do not seek better. They accept their role in elven society.&nbsp; That’s why there are far fewer elven adventurers than humans… And elven bandits are unheard off” his fingers had neared the special juncture, and yet his mind still seemed far away… At least it seemed that way.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>16-06-2006, 03:13:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan busied herself with his hair to attempt to keep her attentions off his hands and her leg. The paste was soothing but his touch was even more so. She was in a sad state to let a sexual attraction control her actions. Was her heart in such need of affection that it would take any form she could get? Her attraction to Valendir had never made sense, but she had not been able to push it away… could not still. “They do not seek better? Do you not have art and music? Are these not created to make life better? And who defines your role? What if you do not like it and you forced into hundreds of years of life that you are not happy to be in?” The questions just tumbled out of her mouth before she could sensor them. His hands were traveling higher up her skin, past the wound and she could not bring herself to say the word stop… not yet.<br><br>She shook her head at the thoughts in her own mind. “Both of our races are wrong to judge everyone based on a few. My father was a farmer. Sometimes he would hunt with a bow to bring meat to our table. But he worked harder and harder everyday to provide us with a better life. My mother may have been content with the thread bare cloths she wore for years because my cousins and I were growing, but you should have seen the look on her face when my father brought home fabric that was the color of lavender petals and said that it was for HER dress and no other.” There were tears trapped in her eyes adding extra reflection from the fire. She had succeeded in diverting her attention by a memory that was both sweet and painful at the same time. “My father was a very good bowman. He never failed at a hunt. He even let me practice shooting his bow when he had time to watch me. But it was not often that he had time to watch me so I took to borrowing the bow with out his permission. One day some of my friends got into a fight and pushed me by accident. I would have fallen down a rock hill if it were not for the bow. It flexed enough to keep me in a position where Donavan could grab me. But the center of the bow had cracked and I knew he could not afford another.”<br><br>She had to stop and put a hand on top of his. She did not look at him, nor comment on the closeness to her womanhood. “He hugged me when I gave him the bow. I had broken one of the methods our family needed to survive and he hugged me.” Clear tears slid down her cheeks… love… sorrow… pride all rolled into one. Let him know through her a man that was different to all he had seen, even if it were only her words. “A week later, he disappeared for a day. When he came back he called me outside and told me to hunt for a deer for my birthday celebration the following night. I had been hunting when I broke the bow. I told him I could not hunt with out a bow and began to cry again, shamed for what I had done. I never saw him put the bow in my hands, but Valendir he could not have afforded it. You can assume what you wish, but my father would not have hurt a soul or stolen a thing. He worked hard and he sacrificed and how he managed to pay for it I will never know but it was of a quality that few would ever hold and I never deserved.” And she had lost it in the river, her sorrow robbed her of speech.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-06-2006, 17:04:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“In Elven society, your talents determine your role. All work for the betterment of the community, not for ones self, or ones family. In that respect no, they do not seek to make life better. It is the community that decides how to make life better for all. You are born and you begin your adult hood working at your talents… if after a hundred years you decide to do something else, you simply do it.” he said still stroking her leg almost subconsciously and staring into the flames. “An elven gatherer does not hunt to feed his family, he hunts to feed the community, no elven family starves, nor are they forced to work to pay for food, it is supplied for them. If an elf needs a new ‘pot’ then the community supplies it…” he finished. The cold had mostly left his bones by this point, and he was starting to feel warm, both from the flames and from the human woman pressed against him. <br><br>“It is a sad tale, but it ends seemingly well.” Except for the loss of the bow he realized. “But in an elven community the gatherer would have received a new bow, at no cost to his family.” He said. He was proud of elven society as he heard about the human one. Humans were so individualistic, and so caught up on possessions determining the measure of a man, or his quality. <br><br>Suddenly he felt her hand on his, stopping his movements. His eyes came down and saw finally where his fingers were headed. He questioned his own actions. He was starting to feel an attraction to her and he could no longer deny it. But he resisted further action. He listened as she finished her tale. He cast a quick glance to her face and saw the tears gathering in her eyes. He started to reach, to wipe the tears away but he stopped himself. He said he wouldn’t act upon his obvious weakness… Perhaps the tea was wearing off. Instead he pushed her leg away, the warmth suddenly gone from his eyes. He stood, and limped to his pack where he put away the herbs and the bowl. Let her cry over a loss bow. It was not his problem. He stopped moving, looking down at his pack. He had made advancements towards her and she had stopped him. It was becoming clear to him now, she had pushed him away, a human.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-06-2006, 02:06:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He withdrawal shocked her, hurt her feelings in the smallest say. She could tell by the look in his eyes that she had done something wrong but she had no idea what. His hand was in an inappropriate place. She did not believe it intentional on his part and she had wanted his touch, so she had put her hand on his instead of removing it. She was married after all… even if her heart did not feel it anymore. She wiped the tears from her eyes knowing it was pointless to cry.<br><br>Dealing with Valendir was to a point where nothing that she did was correct. Being mean and snippy was definitely not going to improve things, but being nice had not either. She would rather go out on her own in the wet than have to wonder if the next thing she was going to say or do would be what pushed him past the point of no return. Teagan stood and walked around the fire to where he was putting away the items he had used to make tea. The guessing would stop here… she would know.<br><br>“What have I done to make you hate me so much. I have never been anything but kind to you and I have no control over my birth. And the only human’s actions that I am responsible for is my own. So what have I Teagen Guthrie done to you Valendir Melwasul?” She waited for him to face her, standing there in only a wet shirt her body shivered because it kept her cold. Her eyes still glistened from her previous tears though now they held a fire of their own. She would not accept being hated because she was human, not when Valendir had at one time looked past the matter of race.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-06-2006, 15:42:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir had been starring at the wall quietly; hand still in his pack tucking away the bowl. The tea had him quite relaxed and the pain in his leg seemed to have lessened. He felt angry, but it was with himself. He had feelings for this woman. He had them back when they journeyed with Fire and Steel but had been content to watch her from a distance, as she fell for Donavan. Seeing her again after so many years had relit those feelings. Perhaps he felt resentment of the way she had chosen the human man over him, but more than likely it was the way they had parted company…<br><br>He felt her shadow hover and he was surprised he hadn’t heard her moving. He stood but kept his back to her for a moment. His mind raced looking for the words to say. He thought he could hear the beating of both their hearts in that instant.<br><br>“You’ve done nothing, and you’ve done everything” he said finally turning to face the woman. With the firelight behind her he could see her figure through her wet clothes, which clung to her. The sight did not help matters. “You sound as though you don’t know what happened the morning I left the company, but he told me you were in on it, he said it was partially your idea…” <br><br>He caught himself, trying to rein in his own emotions. He closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. “I had been nothing but kind to you, and yet I was betrayed… Everything you humans do cause nothing but harm to others, I should have guessed it was coming…” His hands came up and grasped hers firmly, but in no way meant to cause her pain. “I had been kind to you… You were my friend, a friend I watched and cared for…..” He stopped again, letting go of her. Again he turned his back to her…. “You and your kind destroyed the life I had built, the life I had come to cherish…” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>20-06-2006, 02:23:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her confusion as she spoke was plain to see on her face. Not only did she sound as if she did not know… she DID NOT know. She had been told he left because he got tired of them… that humans were not worth his time. The last part she did not believe, but Valendir had always been so aloof and not all of the men were polite or kind. It was not hard to believe that he had finally had enough. No one had ever told her different and the next morning they had the bloodiest battle she had ever seen. Sometimes she still woke with nightmares of it. <br><br>Teagan’s mind was searching for some answer that made sense when he touched her hand. She could not help but to look up into those eyes of ice and marvel at his cool beauty. She opened her mouth to speak but he dropped her hand as fast as he took it and turned his back… Obviously what had happened had affected him greater that just being tired of abuse from a few men when the majority of the group and those working with them accepted him as one of their own.<br><br>“All I know of your leaving is that we lost scores of men because we were missing your bow. I could not fire fast enough after armed combat began. The battlefield was too wide and for every shot I took I saw one or two men fall. One or two by one of our own bowmen trying to fire into the foray to help me out but lacking the skill that made us special.” She reached up and caressed a strand of his hair that cascaded down his back… there was no accusation or confrontation in her voice, but it sounded haunted by the memory. “Your words confuse me. I was not in camp when you left. I had left the night before as a guard for the supply run to the town of Stonewell.” This had been at Donavan’s request so he had left. “I am your friend Valendir. I have never done anything to betray that.” She moved her hand to his shoulder, dragging some of the silky strands of hair with her fingers. Lightly she pulled his shoulder to try to get him to turn around, but did not force the action.<br><br>“What is this horrible thing you are accusing me of?… and who told you that I would do such?” She was not sure she wanted to know… Did Donavan ask her to leave so he could hurt the only man who had a chance at being his rival? If it were true it would destroy what was left of her fragile world. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>20-06-2006, 18:55:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir felt the warmth of the fire on his back, and he watched the long shadows along the walls as he listened to what Teagan said. On several occasions he wanted to turn and correct her on what she was saying. Perhaps she hadn’t been in on it after all? He felt her hand on his hair, her soft delicate touch which then moved on to his shoulder. He felt the tug, and he turned partially, and again he looked into her eyes.<br><br>&nbsp;“I did not abandon the team. Though I felt like the outcast in the Fire and Steel family, it still felt like a family. I felt accepted by most of her members.” He said his hand moving slowly to her cheek, his fingers tracing along the soft skin near her ear. Finally he turned fully to face her.<br><br>“The village where we camped, do you remember the village Teagan?” he asked, watching his fingers touch her ears, then moving to stroke her own hair… “Your mate… He sent you away that night because he was going to betray your union with the blacksmith’s young daughter. I confronted him and he told me that it wasn’t my concern… and so it wasn’t, I went back to my tent and meditated for the night.” He blinked and rested his hand on her shoulder. If she was unaware of the following events, they could be difficult for her to hear…&nbsp; <br><br>“I woke very early, before the sunrise… there was shouting and screaming as men burst into my tent and tied me before I could react.” He finally stopped touching her and he moved a few feet away, closer to the fire, the chill having returned to his bones, apparent by the goose bumps on his flesh. “It seems during the night the young girl was raped and killed. A piece of cloth from my tunic was found clutched in her hand. I was beaten and tied to a stake as the company broke camp and prepared to move. Donavan and his closest allies came to visit me one last time.” Valendir turned to face her again from across the fire. “He told me that my eyes had undressed you for the last time…. And that I would no longer interfere in his plans… And that <strong>you</strong> had requested I be removed from the company because you had become uncomfortable around me… And finally he told me how he and his closest men had ravaged the young girl and how they laughed at the thought of my paying the price for it….” A moment of rage came over his eyes but he quickly turned away. “Your mate is not as honourable as you might believe….” <br><br>“Though I pleaded with the villagers, they would not listen… Why would they, I had been tried, convicted and sentenced all in that instant on the word of the leader of Fire and Steel. I was but an elf, the scum of the earth suddenly. How would you have felt? Those who called themselves my friends all turned their back on me and left me there… To be lynched, beaten and… almost broken.”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 02:59:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He turned and touched her face. The slow caress felt like an eternity and her body betrayed her by leaning into his touch. If he said he did not abandon them, then she could believe him. She had always wanted to see the best in everyone and forgive little faults. It had been what her parents taught her. No one was perfect. It was still very evident that she was more attracted to him than she proper. It would be more comforting to her to at least know he was worth her affection even if she could not give it to him.<br><br>But when he fully turned to face her she could see in his eyes that she was not going to like what he had to say. His touch was distracting. It felt like a lovers touch, but his words she knew would not be comforting. “Yes I remember the village.” She replied. It was true. That entire campaign was hard to forget. “No.” She shook her head as he accused her husband of infidelity. Though she new Donavan to be capable and had chances when they were apart. But he would not intentionally send her way for the purpose of sleeping with another woman… would he?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br>Teagan was a mix of emotions. Shock, hurt, confusion, anger, defensiveness more of her belief in her life than in Donavan… but for the moment did no know what it was. It was odd but she felt hurt again by the fact that Valendir moved away from her. Yet she was concerned as to what happened to him so she continued to listen. When he mentioned that the girl had been raped and killed her hand went to cover her mouth. Her head again shaking slowly from side to side. The more he talked the sicker she felt. The heart in her chest felt like it was made of lead and had trouble beating.&nbsp; Tears slid down her eyes and she slowly began to sink where she stood. She wanted to cover her hears as he made his accusations about her husband and friends… she wanted the girl to be alive and well and the silver haired elf’s words to be a lie. Her stomach knotted and contracted causing her to move completely to the ground and curl up into a ball. She rocked herself as he continued. <br><br>Once he stopped talking she sat in silence… She was a core member of Fire and Steel. All of them had been together since childhood. The boys could be rough, even cruel at times. But rape? Torturing a poor helpless girl and then killing her was not something they would do. It was not something they would do… yet she found doubts in her mind about their capabilities where in Valendir she had none. Now all those scars, most of them little on her current companion made sense. <br><br>Teagan wrapped her arms around her knees and rocked a little harder, the pain wracked her entire body and she felt dirty and vile. If it was true and Donavan had raped the girl and then made love to her… she stayed with fire and Steel almost a year after Valendir left. She was never going to feel clean or at peace again. Her skin began to itch and she started scratching her legs leaving dark marks with her fingers. “Please tell me you are lying… please..” Her voice was but a whispering plead, her eyes staring at the cave floor. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 17:32:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir suddenly felt a pang of pity for the girl. She had so much faith in her mate; it had obviously been difficult to hear the story. But not a word of it was a lie. He watched her from the corner of his eyes as she sank to the floor. He figured she’d be stronger, he thought perhaps she would attack him to defend her mate’s honour. He turned fully and looked at her from across the fire. He could see the pain in her face, the way she stared blankly in disbelief. <br><br>“Not a word was a lie Teagan” he said. “Betrayal…. It hurts doesn’t it? Have you ever been tortured Teagan…. Physically?” he asked curious as he moved slowly back around the fire. There was no longer any resentment, or even anger in his voice… Just sadness and pity. At first he thought he’d feel some pleasure out of seeing her this way… Quite frankly he did, but it was short lived. He was beginning to regret his honesty. What hurt even more was that he was going to use Teagan to get to Donavan, and then he would kill him. “You wanted to know, now you know” he said as he finally stood next to her, the flames from the fire created a dancing reflection upon his skin. <br><br>He looked down at her, seeing her scratching her leg, he reached down and grabbed her arm and pulled her up, hoping she wouldn’t resist. He was surprised by her sudden breakdown. “You deserve better than that dog” he said looking into her eyes. He could say that because he was certain this was no act. It was obvious now she had nothing to do with it. He moved her towards his now dry bedroll laid upon the floor near the flames. “Rest for awhile….” He said gesturing to the bedroll, “I’m sorry…. I see now you had nothing to do with the whole affair… You’re as much a victim as I was” he said. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 04:28:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir said the story was not a lie; so that mean it was her life that was the lie. He asked if betrayal hurt, but right now she was numb. Her heart was frozen lead that sat dead in her chest. She could not open her mouth to speak, therefore his question about being tortured went unanswered. But he knew that she had not. There were only a few scars on her body from small accidents during her travels. She had been in her fair share of sword fights, but had never been bitten by a blade. A few times more from luck than skill. His questions were more for his pleasure of seeing her hurt because she was the closest he could get to those who had hurt him. Teagan continued to rock and scratch the skin off her legs. Her nails were not that long, but eventually she would draw blood. <br><br>The dark haired woman offered no resistance as she pulled her up. She had been struggling to find a meaning to her life. Bouncing back and forth between letting her life go and fighting for a new one. Now there was no fight. Her brown eyes held a hollow sorrow that had no end.&nbsp; She noticed that not even Valendir’s exotic beauty stirred her this time. “Apparently not.” Her voice was barely a whisper and she broke eye contact to stare down at the floor. Her face flushing in embarrassment.&nbsp; Again she gave no resistance as she moved her. Doing as she was told she laid down upon the bedroll and covered her cold form in his blankets. The fire warmed her body, but did nothing for her heart. “My fault is in having done nothing.” She was not sure if she spoke out loud or not. Nothing, it seemed, no longer mattered. <br><br>Teagan closed her eyes and willed tears of self pity not to fall. If Donavan and the others had done what Valendir claimed, which is what she believed, then there was no purpose in trying to get their aid. As an individual woman she could do nothing against them. The money, arsenal and power the group held now was vast. She did not care to have what belonged to her. There was no way she could be around them. Perhaps she could go home. Her father had passed, but her mother still took care of her cousins. It would be hard to return home in failure and alone, but she knew her family would love her no matter what. In time maybe she would learn to love the simplicity of taking care of them. Surely her cousins had children. She could kill herself slowly each day knowing that no child to ever be embraced by her arms would ever be her own. <br><br>Finally a few tears slid down her cheeks. There was nothing she could do for the village of Deer Run, but she would not abandon Valendir to see if this was going to be a problem for the elves. Once they found out what they were up against and she saw him safely to his side of the river, she would go home to her mother. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 15:27:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She did not react the way he’d assumed she would… Seeing her this hurt by his words caused him more than a little regret. He helped her down onto the bedroll and pulled his blankets over her form. He listened to the few words she said, but had no reply… What could he possibly say? He moved his hand to her cheek, wiping the tears away before leaning in and pressing his lips to her cheek, then to her forehead. “It has been a difficult day… For both of us… Sleep now” He said standing up again and moving away. The relaxing effect of the tea had past, and he felt a chill as the ache in his bones returned. <br><br>He put some more wood into the fire, drawing as much heat as he could from it. He tried not to think but his mind overpowered him. He glanced back at Teagan… he moved to grab his heavy cloak, now dried and he put it on his shoulders and he moved to lean against the entrance to the cave. The rain would let up by morning. They had fallen behind but would up the time tomorrow, assuming their legs held out. He looked down at the bruise on his leg for a moment. <br><br>Looking back at the woman one more time he realized he could not use her to get to her mate, at this point it would be cruel. He would need to tell her of his intentions. He no longer felt any anger towards her, and he felt guilty that getting his feelings off his chest had burdened hers. She deserved much better than that bastard. Donavan was scum, and he would pay for betraying both of them, Valendir would see to it…<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>23-06-2006, 03:22:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sleep eluded her. The memory of Valendir’s lips upon her cheek and of her life that she once thought good kept her from rest. The fire danced to silent music while she hear joyous laughter turn sinister. The tears of grieving wives of fallen solders became the voice of the blacksmith’s daughter begging to live. What compensation for her life was given when her killers prospered and became rich? She did remember the blacksmith’s daughter…a pretty little blond haired girl barely the age of 17. Teagan had told her to go home. There was no romance in ending up with your backside against the hard ground inside a soldier’s tent with him rutting in you. Most of the time the woman’s needs were not met. Teagan had heard that complaint many times and thought herself lucky that Donavan was an attentive lover. <br><br>How could she keep herself from thinking of this? Valendir seemed to be cold. He had stoked up the fire, yet still took his cloak. She wondered if his mind was at peace now. What a horrible thing he had went through and she had just accepted the word of her husband that he had moved on. She knew that Donavan hated Valendir… and she was the reason. How naive she had been when she thought herself knowing the world. <br><br>Her eyes would drift between the fire and the elf. How she longed for a place to lay her head and pretend her life was something wonderful for a while. The suspicion that Donavan was not faithful to her while they were separated for these past few years was almost knowledge. She knew his appetite. So why had she been holding to those vows all these years for hollow honor? There would be no harm in sharing the comfort of sleep and she could dream… <br><br>“Valendir, I do not sleep. Come share the blankets with me and get warm. I see no reason you should be less comfortable than I.” She had always imagined that she would feel safe in his arms, but would he give her the opportunity to find out or remain as cold as the fabled Elven demeanor? <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>23-06-2006, 19:29:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was practically sleeping standing up when he heard Teagan’s sweet voice behind him. He turned slowly, feeling a cold chill. He stood silently watching her even after she’d spoken. He looked into her eyes trying to see what she was thinking… He knew he shouldn’t, but down inside he wanted to. There would be no harm in sharing one another’s warmth for the evening would there. <br><br>He moved finally, removing his cloak along the way and tossing it near his pack. The limp in his step was more apparent, probably from spending the past hour standing near the cold exterior. He kneeled carefully next to her waiting for her to open the blanket before he slid in next to her. He moved an arm below her shoulders. The bedroll and blanket were elven made, and therefore very warm, but they were both made for one. He needed to get real close if they were to both be covered. She was warm, a very obvious contrast to his being cold. <br><br>It was an odd feeling after all this time… after all these years to be lying together. He felt very underdressed, having only the small loincloth covering him. But there was no mistaking the sudden warmth that filled him. Not to mention that the feel of her body so close had sent another kind of warmth through him. Once he was relatively comfortable he just laid there, staring at the ceiling, watching the shadows flicker on the stone above him. He was hoping she’d be able to sleep because he doubted the closeness would let him. It only complicated matters. <br><br>He looked forward to tomorrow. Outside he could put some space between them and clear his head. He didn’t want to hurt Teagan anymore, and yet he knew before their journey was over he likely would. Perhaps he should have stayed on his side of the river… Was it really the recon he wanted, or to spend time with her? Human bandits would be no threat to his people, they were quite safe. <br><br>He pulled the blanket tighter around them….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>24-06-2006, 03:53:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a while he stood there looking at her. She was afraid he was going to decline her offer. It surprised her that she was disappointed. How much pain could she go through in one night and still desire someone? But she had long thought her marriage to Donavan over. It was the life of the girl, her life and the lie she mourned. She knew that not even grief could kill the hope to be loved. The need was there in every sentient creature no matter race or creed. <br><br>Teagan smiled gently when he gave in and removed his cloak. He would not have been able to walk at all tomorrow if he had stood all night. She lifted the blankets and moved over rolling on her side to give him room. She laid her head against the left side of his chest and draped her arm over his stomach. The temperature of his body caused her to shiver but she did not move away. Her shirt was dry now and it protected her a bit. She wrapped her legs around the good one to get him warm quicker. <br><br>It did not seem he wanted to speak so she closed her eyes. His heart beat was soothing. He was not holding he but she did feel safe next to the strength of his frame. And though she did not put too much importance into it, her body held that slight edge of arousal that came from lying next to a almost perfect man.&nbsp; At least she could dream and what she dreamed she did not have to share. It could be her own little reality for a while.<br><br>If she slept she was not sure. She was always aware of his body… now warm. Her fingers lightly brushed his hip in circles. His breathing was even, which was a sign of sleep… but she did not know much about Elven sleeping habits… Her fingers continued to caress the soft skin of his hip.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-06-2006, 15:09:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir felt her warm breath upon his chest. It had a soothing sensation and a warming effect. He let her wrap her leg around his. He was unsure of himself. He resisted the constant urge to pull her harder against him, to feel her body lying atop his, He finally closed his eyes. He knew now this was most certainly a mistake, but he didn’t move. This was where he wanted to be. It didn’t take long for his body to warm. He gave in to slumber...<br><br>He did sleep for a time but the feel of her fingers woke him. He did not move, he didn’t want her to stop. His eyes fluttered open slightly and his senses processed the information around him. The rain had stopped, but the stars were still hidden. He turned his head slightly to look at the fire, which was smaller, but it still burned. He figured it would last till morning. His leg felt numb, but there was no pain. The arm that snaked underneath her shoulder moved to her waist, wrapping itself slightly around her. The fingers worked under her shirt, feeling the soft skin as they moved up her back. <br><br>The other hand came up to brush some of his hair from his face as he thought back to the day's events that led him here. Bandits in human lands, the Callon and finally this place. He turned his head to look at her, his fingers moving to brush her hair away from her face. He felt guilty for the pain he’d caused her, and he felt more guilt when he though of things to come. He didn’t care about the humans, let the bandits raised their lands he thought, but he worried for this human woman that laid in his arms now. He brushed those thoughts away, counter productive he decided. Things were in motion, things that they could no longer change…<br><br>The hand on his hip returned his mind to the present as he closed his eyes again. The small circular motions upon his bare skin would make it difficult to sleep and yet he let it continue. He shivered slightly, not at the cold, but the light tracing patterns. Valendir’s skin, like that of most elves was very sensitive. Each time the circles brought her fingers closer to the loincloth he felt his midsection bucking just slightly, and gently. A soft moan escaped his lips… He knew he had to end it, but he let it go for just a little longer.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>24-06-2006, 18:18:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She held her breath as she felt his hand go underneath her shirt and slide up her back. She couldn’t tell at the moment if it had been intentional as her caress had started out to be, or if he was awake. Her mind did not know what it wanted for her future, but for the first time there was no barrier between her and Valendir. She no longer held her marriage as valid and there was no one around to judge them. Her hand continued to trace lazy circles on his hip, brushing lightly against the long cloth that was his only barrier of propriety.<br>Her body wanted her to be braver but she was not sure he was awake and she still feared he would reject such an advance because she was human.<br><br>When he moved his hand to his face she kept her eyes closed and her breathing steady. She wanted him to think she was still asleep, though she was fully enjoying his soft skin beneath her cheek. It would not take much movement to turn her had and kiss that skin or slide her tongue a short distance so she could lap at his nipple. What would he do if he could read her mind? The corners of her mouth turned up gently when he brushed her hair away from her face. It was not enough to show she was fully awake and aware of her movements.<br><br>Teagan smiled a little broader when she felt him shiver and the slight movements of his hips. Even his moan suggested he wanted her… or at least enjoyed her touch. Encouraged, but still weary she guided her fingers a cross his abdomen following the line of his loan cloth and then up towards his chest. His reaction to this would decide if she would stop and go back to sleep or if they would continue on… How many times had he kissed her in her dreams and how much did she wanted him to now?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-06-2006, 19:08:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thought of tomorrow, and the next day, thoughts of yesterday and the day before that had dwindled into nothingness. Would it be so bad to accept a moment of indulgence? They were male and female after all, and there was an obvious mutual attraction. Her touch lit a fire inside his soul he hadn’t felt in a very long time. There was a quality to Teagan that he admired… And perhaps even desired. <br><br>With his head turned his lips moved to press against her forehead, followed by his cheek against her soft hair. He was very much aware of her hand and as she brushed the cloth of the only covering on his body again his hips moved, wanting the hand to continue… He felt the fingers move up his chest and at the feeling he opened his eyes and glanced down at the woman, hoping to see some sign of consciousness. The hand at her back continued to feel the soft skin, and it moved to her neck, underneath the blanket of dark hair. <br><br>His arousal was now pressing against the loincloth, there was no disguising it. He wouldn’t have even if he could have, he wanted her to see, and know. His free hand came to touch her chin, lightly lifting her face for his eyes to gaze upon… He still doubted this was wise, and he knew it would complicate matters in the morning and the days ahead, but one thing was certain, he would give in to the passion tonight…. They may never have this chance again…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>25-06-2006, 04:40:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Valendir’s soft lips touched her forehead she felt as if she were dreaming. It was all the encouragement she needed. It was a relief to know that he wanted her. She had begun to doubt herself from the lack of effort from… no she wasn’t going to think about any other man who’s body was pressed into hers.&nbsp; The man who’s hand was now so far underneath the back of her shirt that it was pulling it up in the front. <br><br>Teagan finally opened her eyes when he titled her chin to look up at his face. It was clear in her dark brown eyes that she wanted him. Her leg slid against his, gently pushing into his manhood. “Valendir” She whispered his name as she leaned up to claim his lips. At first the kiss was shy and uncertain as if she were afraid he would vanish. Her hand continued to caress his chest and her leg lightly rubbed against him again.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-06-2006, 15:52:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir heard her soft voice, and the look in her eyes showed there as no longer any doubt of the outcome of this night. When she leaned up he slid his hand out of her shirt and it moved to the hair at the back of her head. He felt her leg moving against him. He was a bit reluctant when the kiss began, and uncertain feeling came over him, but her warm lips dispelled it. He pressed lightly. He pulled his face away, long enough to whisper “Teagan…” before his lips returned to hers. <br><br>His arm that was behind her and now free of her shirt pulled her up directly atop him, then both arms wrapped around her small waist. He felt her lower body slid in line with his placing pressure on his manhood, which was now hard as dwarven steel. He pulled her hard against him as he continued to kiss her passionately. A hand came back to her hair, and the soft skin of her neck beneath it. There was no going back, he wanted her… He needed to feel her and taste her. The feel of her breasts pushed against his chest was a wonderful senseation. <br><br>There was no longer any conflict between them, they were male and female. They were now, for one night, lovers….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>25-06-2006, 16:45:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Had she wanted this moment from the first time she laid eyes upon him? It definitely felt that way and now that it was happening she let all of the past and thoughts of the future go. At this moment her mind, heart and spirit where free to love this Elf. Their kiss was still fragile, but after he whispered her name his lips return to hers and they gently began to explore each other. <br><br>She did not realize she held her breath until he rolled her on top of him. His powerful arms around her waist and his rock hard sex presses against her sex caused her to gasp into the kiss. Her abdomen contracted painfully to let her know where her body wanted his. She had never reacted this strongly to her husband, ever. She allowed her tongue to trace his lips, testing his response to it before delving into his mouth for more intimacy. Her soft shirt became rough as her skin became more sensitive because of their act. Teagan broke the kiss long enough for her to remove it; the movement causing their sexes to grind together. Now completely bare, she moaned at their connection and sighed as she pushed her soft mounds back into his chest, skin on skin. Her mouth found his to start the tongue dance again and her hand moved to its favorite spot to trace circles on his hip.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-06-2006, 18:51:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				To most elves the act of love making is a very intimate and simple experience. While riding with Fire and Steel he’d heard stories of aggressive behavior, or rough sex that drove humans wild. Elven women were fragile, delicate creatures that needed to be held softly. Valendir had never experienced the touch of a human woman. Teagan was much tougher and spirited than any elven maiden he’d been intimate with. He wondered what awaited him and he looked forward to it. <br><br>The feel of her tongue was an odd feeling. It was not something the elves did, he was getting the feeling there were many things his people did not do. It was not an unpleasant feeling. He moved his tongue against hers in a slightly unsure manner. It felt warm, and wet. It was a good sensation he decided.<br><br>He watched as she removed her shirt, baring all for him to see. Her breasts were large, and nicely rounded. When she returned to pressed against him he mirrored her previous act, he ran his tongue along her soft lips. He felt her hand return to his hip. He moved his hands to his wasit but with her atop him as she was he was unable to reach the cloth that covered him. He looked at her before whispering, “Remove my loincloth, I wish to bare myself to you… As you have to me…” he kept looking into her eyes with nothing but desire…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>26-06-2006, 05:12:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kissing Valendir was very sweet from his taste to his manner. They were both still unsure of each other, but it was as if he had never used his tongue in kissing before. If he truly had not, he was a fast learner and the honesty was refreshing. It was not her intention to rush this event so when he broke the kiss she did not mind. When he asked her to remove his loin cloth she smiled gently. If there had been an undamaged heart in her chest she might have lost it then, as it were she could not speak. A gentle nod was her conformation. <br><br>Lifting her hips, Teagan used her left and to undo the ties and remove the cloth. Her eyes never left his, but she could not resist letting her hand caress his velvet covered steel. The skin there had to be the softest she had ever touched. But she did not want to go too far too fast so she moved her hand back to his hip and lowered herself to be on top of him once more. Leaning on her elbow she used the other hand to caress his cheek. “Thank you.” She said softly before she lowered her head and pressed her lips once more to his. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-06-2006, 21:03:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was almost as if they were both making love for the first time, cautiously exploring each other. He continued using his tongue imitating her actions, flicking it against hers and running it He finally took hers into his mouth and gently sucked on it. It was a wonderful thing. He could tell she was moving slowly, and he wanted it that way also. He watched her smile, and the way she nodded. <br><br>When she lifted her hips he was able to see down along both their bodies. He admired hers, the roundness of her breasts to the small patch of hair near her moist womanhood. When her hand touched his length he gasped and his hips moved up slightly before settling back down. When she laid down upon him again he could feel her wetness. Valendir never would have imagined he could be so aroused by a human woman, but he’d never wanted anything as much as he wanted Teagan at this moment. <br><br>He felt her hand upon his cheek and he heard her whisper. He wasn’t sure what she was thanking him for, but he neither cared. His arms wrapped around her and pulled her as tightly to him as he possibly could, feeling every inch of her body pressed against his.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>27-06-2006, 03:28:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir pulled her body into his, she answered by rubbing it against him, undulating from side to side in a wave that started at her shoulders and gently rolled to her hips. Teagan was very curious to find out what he liked, did elves have different erogenous zones than human men? She brought her lips back to his and let them brush together but that was as far as the kiss went. Her mouth moved to follow the invisible trail her fingers had left behind on his cheek, the tip of her tongue tasting him and caressing him along with her lips. She moved along his jaw line until she finally reached the lobe of his ear. She pulled the small piece of flesh into her mouth and sucked on it gently… her other hand still traced circles on his hip. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-06-2006, 20:04:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir’s entire body shivered slightly at the touch of her tongue on his cheek followed by the wetness of her lips on his ear. It had the effect of a light tickle but on the inside it was more. Goosebumps were apparent all over his body as her touch send a chill up his spine. The hand at his hip did not help matters. In elven tradition the art of love making was more formal and choreographed. It was kept simple with no add libbing. To him, this was all extra, he felt he was being teased by her and he wanted it to continue. <br><br>He had one hand at the back of her neck, squeezing her as her wonderful hair spilled all around him. His other hand pushed back the covers and moved to her rear, squeezing the soft flesh. The act of her hips on his was creating a heat that contrasted with the heat like nothing he’d ever experienced. This was not the elven way… this was much better. He began to grind himself into her…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 01:40:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan had always known that there was passion hidden beneath his cool veneer. His eyes had always betrayed the fact that he felt things deeply, but only when he thought no one was watching. The way he held her neck with his fingers in her hair and the light caress of his hands as they traveled her back to her butt was tender. She had only been with one man in her life and she could not remember being able to classify any of Donavan’s touches as a caress. It seemed Valendir was also giving her a new experience. <br><br>Her soft moans were as much from his touch and the hardness of his manhood being pressed against her sex as it was from her delight in touching him. She wanted to straddle him and ride him until they were both bursting in climax but she also wanted to know every nuance of his body. She wanted this night to last for days. Her body kept its light snake like movements and her hand continued to trace circles on his hip. It was her tongue that explored his pointed ear; tracing the outside edge to the tip. She tilted her head so that she could suck the tip with out hurting him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 16:08:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir wondered if Teagan had any idea what she was doing to him. Elven ears were sensitive and his jaw clenched shut instinctively as she licked and sucked. The hand at her neck continued to moved lightly in that area, enjoying the feel of her soft hair atop his hand and her skin beneath it. He continued to squeeze tightly at times, yet not enough to cause any pain. With the covers finally cast down the flames flickered upon their naked forms and the only sound was the moans of passion that emanated from these two beings. <br><br>He could feel her slick womanhood working his stiff member and he wondered why she delayed… he supposed this teasing was a human trait. He tried to resist just taking matters into his own hands and enjoy the sensations she was waking inside of him. His nearby hand went to her leg and pulled it towards him, then moving back to the curve of her rear, his touch almost light as a feather. “Teagan….” He whispered as his eyes shut tightly. He didn’t know how much more ‘teasing’ he could take. Her hand at his hip was causing a heat to built within him….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 03:23:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His touch left her wanting more of it. It was so light that she had to focus to feel it, yet once she did it radiated out through her entire being. He pulled her leg up so that she partially straddled him. The entry of her sex parted slightly and the coolness of the air reminded her of how much she wanted him buried inside of her. <br><br>But not yet, not yet. She wanted to make love to him slowly, cherish him… worship him. He should feel that he was the only person that existed in her world. She sucked on his ear gently a few more times and used her tongue to caress its edges while it was in her mouth. Wanting to explore more of him, she stopped and whispered huskily in his ear. “You may touch me as you like, anywhere. I am yours.” Teagan trailed slow and long kisses down his neck, gently sucking here and there. One hand caressed his shoulder and the other continued to trace circles on his hip.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 15:45:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Human procreation was very odd, but it was like nothing else. Words could not describe the sensations that coursed through him. He could no longer concentrate on one sensation or feeling; his mind swam through a sea of emotions, all of them pleasurable. When her leg reached his side he could feel her flower opening to him a bit more, but he sensed her hesitation. It was not the bad kind of hesitation; he could tell she wanted to tease him a bit more, he just hoped he could take this abuse…<br><br>At her words his hand slid from her neck to her side, the palm pressing against the side of her breasts. It was as soft as an elven maiden’s skin but it had another quality, it was warm and inviting as if it was meant to be touched. That hand moved to her other knee, and it pulled that one up to his side. The other hand moved in turn to her side before sliding between them, holding her breasts gently, giving it a tentative squeeze. Her wet tongue and lips continued to drive him closer to craziness. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>30-06-2006, 02:05:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan rewarded Valendir’s caressing of her breasts with sweet moans. She pressed them into his hands as she continued to kiss down from his neck to his shoulder. He brought her other knee up so that she completely straddled his hips. He womanhood was completely open now… warm, wet and assessable to him her hips were lifted to release his hardened member trapped between them. <br><br>“Yes” she whispered as he continued to squeeze her mounds. She began to stoke his cock with her sex, coating him with her dew. It was to tease both of them. Teagan almost begged him to take her as she did it. The warm ache between her legs only grew as she slid over him. Her kisses trailed lower and she arched her back so her lower body could continue to taunt them. Her mouth wanted his nipple, which she found and showed no mercy: sucking, liking and rolling it between her soft lips.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>30-06-2006, 15:39:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The moans that emanated from Teagan gave Valendir silent pleasure. His hand continued to press against her breast before the fingers lightly touched the hardened nipple. The tip felt hard and he traced circles around it with his fingers before giving it a gentle pinch. As she straddled him he could feel himself getting slick from her juices, and he tried to buck himself into her, but decided to wait, wanting this amazing sense of euphoria to last. <br><br>Her words again encouraged him, and he pinched her nipple a little harder as she began to move down his body. Her lips and tongue on his upper chest made him breath deeply. His eyes were closed and his free hand moved to her hair, gripping a handful tightly. He bucked again finally, almost unconsciously, and felt the tip of his shaft move just past her entrance but he immediately paused. He wanted so bad to roll her over and start moving himself in and out of her, but he was still uncertain. He wanted to learn the human way, to experience this in its entirety. “Oh Teagan…” he whispered.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>01-07-2006, 04:19:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She did not know how much more she could take or do. It was far more satisfying that she had ever known to have him moving underneath her… writhing in pleasure she had created. Valendir was having no problems affecting her as well. For something that seemed new to him, he was not doing a bad job. Being the one he was learning with intensified his touch on her breast. She moaned deeply when he gripped her harder. There was no expectation of how he was supposed to be or what she needed, but she now wanted to break his precious control… here while no one was watching and no one else would know. <br><br>When Valendir pushed into her, she gasped. She wanted so much to push her self onto his erection, but it was not her plan. Teagan moved to treat his other nipple just as lovely, licking, sucking and kissing the small bead on his chest. Though she did not push back onto him, she rocked her hips from slide to side very slowly causing her entrance to caress and grind against the head of his manhood. Lightly she took his nipple between her teeth and bit down until there was a slight pinch of pain. Her hand now traveled from his hip, up his side and back down again.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 00:25:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir wondered if this was a human game. His cockhead was poised to trust into her, but she continued to delay. He moaned as she licked, and kissed at his chest. His hand continued to knead the flesh of her breast, and pinched her nipple again, and again, not very hard, but enough for her to know he was there.<br><br>His other hand moved to her hip, trying to push her down onto him though he didn’t try very hard. He wanted her to know he was ready, but for now was prepared to allow her to control the pace, she did seem more experienced. Her rocking motions were something, as he felt her slickness rubbing against him. He flinched slightly as she bit his nipple. It wasn’t a hard pain, and he actually found himself enjoying it, wanting more. He felt her hand begin to move up and down his side and he wondered what she might have in store for him next….<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 05:52:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan wanted nothing more than to impale herself upon his aroused organ. Her own need was apparent to hear as she was moaning at every slight sensation he was giving her. Even what she was doing to him was driving her need almost to the point of desperation. But if they could never do this again had she given him the experience he would dream of? <br><br>She slid her hips forward and lifted them up, unjoining their tentative union. Kissing lower, she let her hair drag across his chest. Her hands continued to caress his thighs as her body moved lover so that their hips parted. She kissed and licked around his navel and slowly traveled lower still. Her hands now stroked the inside of his thighs, moving up to gently caress his testicles. It was her cheek that slid down the side of his engorged manhood. With a turn of her head, her soft lips followed the length back to the tip, which her tongue attested before she pulled him into her mouth, humming as she began to lightly suck. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 18:07:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He continued to try and push her down on him, and he let a reluctant sigh when she pulled away. Her moans seemed to indicate she was enjoying this, as he was. It was an odd thing to Valendir that she delayed so. He wondered what she could possibly have in mind next as his hand continued to pinch the nipple of her breast. <br><br>Her soft hair was draped across his chest and he felt her lips moved lower down his body. When he felt her hands at the inside of his thighs he let out a long moan. He opened his eyes and looked down at Teagan in the glow of the fire. Her hand caressed his testicles… No one had ever touched him there, and the feeling nearly drove him mad. It was clear he was ill prepared for human love making. He watched as her head moved along his length, followed by her lips upon his shaft. <br><br>When she engulfed him he immediately bucked, almost uncontrollably. His moan turned into a long drawn out groan that sounded almost primitive. Her wet and waiting lips, her mouth and tongue moved along his erection and he could already feel himself reaching his peak. This was like nothing he had ever experienced, or even dreamt of. His body was assaulted by so many new sensations. He reached one hand into her hair, and to the back of her head while the other one moved to caress her arm…<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 21:26:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her life might be to the point it was because Teagan was not a selfish woman. She felt no need to have more than what would provide her and her family with a comfortable life and she was quite content to give more than she received as long as her effort was appreciated. It was clear by his reaction that no woman had ever done this for him before. Valendir lifted his hips, thrusting into her mouth and pushing his large member back into her throat. She forced her gag reflex back and continued to move her mouth tightly around him, her tongue massaging the underside of his cock as she sucked. There was a risk that bringing him to orgasm this way would end the night. She might not be able to excite him again or he might not be willing explore her sex with his hands and mouth… But his pleasure was too much for her to really worry about herself. She had unfulfilled desires often enough to know that it eventually faded.<br><br>With out holding back, Teagan began to suck him harder, her head bobbed up and down upon his pole faster as she took him as deep in her mouth as she could go. Her hand cupped his balls and massaged them gently as the other hand stroked the bottom of his shaft. She moaned as she worked forcing the vibrations of her mouth down his erection. Never had Donavan had responded to her with such abandon that Valendir did now. For the moment she was happy and did not worry that it would be a fleeting feeling.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 13:46:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was in the throes of passion, his body reacting strongly to her every move. His hips continued to buck his shaft into her mouth. This was nothing like he’d imagine, and he knew now why human males always spoke of human women as sexual objects. His eyes closed and his head jerked back onto the bedroll as Teagan increased the pressure. He knew he would be unable to hold out much longer, and he wondered if he should say something as he neared orgasm. His hands shot out and grabbed each edge of the mat they laid upon. <br><br>Finally he looked back at Teagan for a moment, one hand came to her wrist trying to pull her away slightly as he was about to explode in what would be a full body orgasm. “Teagan…..” He grunted in warning as his seed began to flow from his member. His upper body began to trash about as the feeling came over him rendering his body numb. This was amazing for Valendir, he’d never felt anything remotely similar. No elven woman could ever make him feel thus. His midsection rose several inches of the ground, his head moved vigorously from side to side. His moans grew into what sounded like a primitive growl. The passion that his body underwent sent a tear rolling down the right side of his face…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 14:13:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir’s hand went to her hair to try to pull her away from him but she did not allow him to do so. She knew that he did not want to hurt her but swallowing his seed would keep their bedding much cleaner and she wanted him to have the wonderful sensation of being sucked while in orgasm. He exploded like a fireball. His seed filled her mouth and she swallowed. She allowed her body to move with his and kept her eyes on him to watch one of the most beautiful events in her life. Once he had quieted down and stopped issuing his seed, she gave his head one last lick them moved up to lay beside him.<br><br>Teagan rested her head on his shoulder, smiling, happy and ignoring that her body still ached from need. She kissed the tear away and with her left hand began to caress his abdomen in what was meant to be a soothing manner. She did not say anything… afraid to… but wanting him to enjoy the peace that came after an orgasm, especially one so powerful.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 15:44:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He could not believe the sensations as his seed poured freely into her mouth. His grip on her hair tightened, but no longer tried to pull her away. It was obvious to Valendir that this was what she’d expected, perhaps even wanted. His body came down to rest finally, and he opened his eyes in time to see Teagan come back to lay her head upon his chest. His breathing was beginning to return to normal and he laid there, his body more relaxed than he had ever felt before. The pain in his leg was now a far off thought. <br><br>He felt her lips at the side of his face. He hadn’t been aware of the tear until she kissed it away. Enjoy the peace of the moment he did. He was unsure what to do, or what to say. He felt a lump at his throat as he looked down at Teagan. This human woman had given him a gift the likes of which he’d never known, and he would be eternally grateful. The tension between the two was a distant memory, and though it may return in the morning, at this moment there was nothing but the beating of their hearts… <br><br>After a minute of rest, he felt needed to do something; he needed to repay her gift in kind. He rolled on his side, slowly, allowing her to lay fully on her back. He moved his hand to brush some hair from her beautiful face before gazing down at her naked form. He remembered her reaction to his touching her breasts, so he started there, moving his hand to feel her flesh before lowering his head to lick one nipple, then moving to the other….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 17:53:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She had closed her eyes and let the comfort of his breathing lull her towards sleep a smile on her lips even though she still wanted him inside of her. Her eyes opened when he stirred and moved to her back and the flow of their movement would lead her. His blue eyes trapped her completely as he brushed her hair from her face. She brought her hand up to his jaw, caressing affectionately. His beauty at this moment would be forever burned into her mind.<br><br>Teagan’s hands went to his shoulders as he began to move down her body. She had not expected this. She drew breath when he caressed her sensitive mound and moaned when his tongue moved over its peak. She moved one hand into his hair and gently ran it through the silk. Her other hand caressed his shoulder and her legs wrapped around him, a soft foot caressing the calf of his leg. “Yes, that is so good.” She purred. “Pull it into your mouth… suck on it.” She had never been wound this tight; her entire body pressed itself against his, their sexes once again close.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 19:50:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir felt Teagan’s body wrap itself around his, it was a sign that she wanted this kind of treatment. It was unfamiliar territory for him, but he would see her received the same pleasure he did. The sweet sound of her voice encouraged him and he continued. He ran his tongue around the nipples as his hands kneaded the flesh of her breasts. He took her nipple between his teeth before pulling a bit, while his hand did a similar thing to her other one. He saw her wet skin glistened in the firelight, she truly was a beautiful woman.<br><br>He wanted to give her more, and he moved a hand lower, tracing circles along her stomach, fingers lightly moving along her skin. He finally reached her womanhood, fingers moving through the small bit of hair before lightly touching her wetness. As he continued to suck on her nipples he looked up at Teagan, hoping to see a reaction, hoping to see a sign that what he was doing was pleasurable for her…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 05:53:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She gave herself completely to his touch… to the wonderful sensations that his attention was creating.&nbsp; She moaned and purred as his tongue and hand worked her breast, even more so when he pulled at her nipples. Her eyes were closed and her face glowed more from passion than the firelight it reflected. <br><br>When he was bold enough to explore, her body seemed to lift to his touch. His hands left a fire in their wake and she reveled in the direction it was going. “Valendir” she purred in a husky tone as he lightly caressed her nether lips. “it feels wonderful.” Normally she was not one to talk during sex or even be as vocal as she was now. She never liked the thought of others listening to her passion. It was a freedom to not have that worry. The hand that was in his hair caressed the back of his neck, the other hand came up to softly trace the contour of his ear. Teagan was where she wanted to be…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 13:51:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His teeth and tongue continued to work on her nipples, first one, and then the other. Teagan’s moans were the reward Valendir sought, her pleasure was his goal. He moaned as his tongue traced circles around her wonderful globes of flesh, and his eyes continued to seek hers, watching her reactions, please to see the effect his touch was having upon her. <br><br>The fingers of one hand continued to stroke her lips, moving in an up down motion for now. This was new territory for Valendir. In elven lovemaking there was no such exploration, no such touching. Now that he experienced it, he did not want to experience his people’s sexual acts any longer. The other hand moved lower to her inner thighs, tracing along the soft skin. Her sweet words pushed him further, instinct took over and he inserted a finger inside her as the other hand continued to move along her slit. He enjoyed the feel of her hand in his hair as well as the one at his ear; it sent shivers up his spine and a chill through his soul. His ears, which were one of the most sensitive parts of him, sent a signal to his manhood, which surprisingly began to stir again…<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 05:18:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan could not contain herself. Her body moved against his on its own free will. Everywhere Valendir touched, she wanted more. Her brown eyes were glazed over in passion and his name slid off her lips several times. It was easy to see that she was enjoying the things he was doing, even though it was his first time. <br><br>She shivered when he caressed the skin of her thighs. It had been such a long time since she had simply been touched that she was overwhelmed with sensation. When he slid a finger in her she almost came undone. Her moan was sweet and she lifted her hips slightly against him trying to push him deeper into her tightness. “you are good” she encouraged and he continued to tease her womanhood. He continued her work on his ears and hair… it gave her a measure of peace in her body’s chaos. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 13:33:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was please at her reactions. It seemed she was enjoying this as much as he had earlier, and he was more than happy to reciprocate. The way she said his name made him feel wanted, and he wanted to bring her a high level of pleasure. Encouraged by her reaction to his movements he moved himself lower along her body, his tongue tracing circles from her breasts to her midsection. <br><br>His lips continued to move lower as he moved a second finger inside of her. He was surprised by her tightness, but her wetness allowed his fingers to move slowly in and out of her. Finally his lips were moving through the small mound of hairs just above her womanhood. With his fingers continuing their movements, his tongue moved lower still. He was unsure what he was looking for, or doing. His eyes remained locked on her face looking for some indication that he was still on the right track.<br><br>He could taste her now; it was a sweet taste, unlike what he would have imagined. His other hand moved to her breast, pinching her nipple lightly. The fingers from the first hand continued to move in her in a gentle manner often curling slightly as they reached her depths, as his tongue now ran along her slit, slowly along the lips in an up down manner… <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 02:31:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				If he would have touched her just a little while longer she would have shattered against his hand. But as his mouth began to travel lower she fought to hold it off. His touch was one pleasure after another. Teagan gasped as he slid a second finger in side of her and she moved her sex against him. Even more so as his lips neared her sacred area.&nbsp; She held her breath as he kissed her pubic hair: her hand caressed he his hair. Even though she stilled her face still held the throws of pleasure as she was totally enwrapped by sensation. <br><br>“Valendir…” She moaned deeply as his lips met hers and his tongue gently tasted her feminine flesh. He was giving her more than she had ever received and she was not far from her highest peak. “More, please more.” She begged. “Deeper, lick deeper. Ahhh Valendir!” Like he had done her, her fingers when lightly into his hair, keeping him with out force where she needed him to be.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 15:05:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Again she spoke his name, and coming from her soft lips it sounded sweeter than he had ever heard it called. Her voice held a hint of longing, added to a lot of affection. Still keeping his eyes mostly on her face he continued to manoeuvre his lips and tongue around her sex, enjoying the sweet taste of her honey as his fingers continued their steady rhythm of ins and outs. He could tell where she wanted his mouth by the way she held his head. <br><br>He slid his fingers out till they were barely inside of her, and he slid his tongue to meet them. He wiggled his tongue inside of her, licking her insides as deep as he could reach. He returned one finger inside her, trusting along side his tongue.&nbsp; His free hand moved slowly down her flat stomach to lay just above her mound. Seeing her hardened clit he moved to lick the thumb of this hand and he pushed it gently atop the sensitive button wanting to see her reaction. His cock had once again hardened and it rubbed gently against her leg.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>08-07-2006, 02:27:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan had never experienced such bliss in her life. Despite the numerous times she had experienced sex with Donavan she had never enjoyed it this much. Her hips lifted slightly with each thrust of his fingers, but when he began to lick around her opening she kept her hips up. “Valendir…” she moaned sweetly as his tongue penetrated her. That she had never experienced and she felt herself moving ever so closer to her pentacle. <br><br>But when his tongue pushed into her sensitive nub her hands tightened in his silky silver hair. “Yes Valendir&nbsp; there!” she cried in passion. Her lips lifted trying to let it more attention. She was not sure what she wanted more his mouth or the his manhood that was once again ready, but she did not leg go his hair. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-07-2006, 15:51:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The fact that she continued to hold his head there meant he was doing something that pleased Teagan. He moved his tongue along her lips until it met her clit. His fingers continued to pump in and out of her, and would as long as he thought she enjoyed it. He moved his lips to cover her button, suckling it slightly. He moved his tongue across it, at first lightly and slow but increasing in pressure and motion gradually.<br><br>His free hand moved down to his shaft, and he stroked it slightly, making sure it was ready when called for. He couldn’t remember it ever being quite so hard, or feeling quite so numb from arousal. His eyes watched Teagan as she spoke to him. He watched her breathing, her chest as it rose and fell with every quivering breath. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>09-07-2006, 18:50:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The more attention Valendir lavished on her hidden button the higher she swirled and soared. Her hips lifted and shivered as she approached he point of no return. Her moans became more impassioned. Teagan wrapped a leg across his back and tightened her grip in his hair. “Valendir!” She cried out as her body began to shake violently. She shivered and trembled underneath his mouth and the waves of pleasure seemed to radiate outward from her center longer than she had ever felt before. <br><br>Once she had quieted down, she knew that she did not want it this to be over. She needed him inside of her… deep inside. She needed to be one with him. “Please Valendir I still need you inside me.” She first pulled him by the hair, firm but not enough to hurt. Then her hands went to his arms. She lifted her hips and begged once more “Please.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-07-2006, 19:17:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir could feel Teagan begin to reach her peak. Her moans made him push harder, both with his hands and his tongue. He began to suck her clit in earnest through her orgasm. He felt her hands at his hair; they pulled him harder into her. He drank thirstily from her sex, and he was surprised by the force of her orgasm. She was warm he noticed and the heat radiated into him. <br><br>He was happy to hear her say she wanted more, and he was eager to provide what she wanted. He felt her tug his hair before she grabbed his arms. He hovered above her, supporting his weight on one hand while the other guided himself into her. He moaned as he felt her engulf him. She was tight, and he felt every inch of her as he reached the base of his shaft. His lips passionately came down on hers, hard even. He was surprised at how much he wanted her. He began to slowly move in and out of Teagan. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>09-07-2006, 23:34:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan let out a sigh as his manhood slid deeply into her. Her fingers dug into his skin as she gently lifted her hips to meet him. He kissed her with a intensity that surprised her, even more it thrilled her and she moaned deeply into his kiss. Her legs wrapped around his so she have better leverage when she needed it, but with the incredible friction made from his repeatedly pushing into her felt better than she could even imagine. Her world had narrowed dramatically until only she and Valendir existed. Her hands began to move, loving caressing his body where ever she could reach. Her hips gently continued to match his pace. There was no hurry for the next climax she wanted to enjoy the feeling of his penetrations for a long time to come. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-07-2006, 14:16:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir continued to trust slowly into Teagan enjoying every inch of her. His tongue continued to dance with hers. His hands were flat on the floor at each side of her head, propping himself up slightly. This had been an experience like no other. No elven woman had ever been able to bring this need, this passion out of him. The feel of her legs wrapped around his made him increase his pace. <br><br>Her heat was still overwhelming his body. He’d been cold earlier, but now his body and hers both glistened in sweat. Like Teagan he was in no rush, simply wanting to feel. He moaned along with her until he pulled his lips from hers a few inches. His eyes starred deeply into hers…. So many words raced though his mind but he was unable to say anything as he began to trust with a bit more force…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>11-07-2006, 02:12:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he increased the pace of his thrust she increased her pace to match him. Her hands were in constant motion across his body. Her body rubbing against his as they moved in unison. He broke this kiss and stared into his eyes, she could not look away. She brought her hand up to caress his cheek as he began to thrust harder. “This is so perfect.” Her voice was husky and obviously affected by the newly applied force. Teagan moved her hands to his silky hair, brushing against his sensitive ears as her hips continued to meet his thrusts. She was in bliss.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>12-07-2006, 18:49:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir kept trusting as hard as he could, adding a bit of gyrations to his movements. He kept his eyes locked with Teagan’s throughout it, until her fingers found his ears. His head fell back and the eyes closed and he moaned. If she kept at the ears he would not last much longer he realized. <br><br>He loved the sound of her voice and the feel of her fingers upon his skin. He leaned down into his elbows putting their faces closer together and he began to grunt, knowing his orgasm was looming…. “Oh Teagan” he whispered in her ear…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 14:06:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She loved the way her name sounded when he said it. It was almost as musical as his native tongue. But she loved even more the way he was pounding into her. He filled her completely and then some. They way they were going she would not need much more from him to reach her second climax. It sounded as if he was close to his. “Yes.” She whispered and pulled his mouth down to hers for a crushing kiss. She continued to meet his thrusts, but now as hard as she could. A warmth began to spread through out her body from her abdomen. The sign that her orgasm was just beginning. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 18:03:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir continued to piston into this beautiful human woman. A few years ago he’d secretly dreamt of being in this position, though back then he would not have acted upon those feelings. As it was now, if word got out about this relation he’d be cast out of elven society. <br><br>But at this moment that was not his concern. He could see the look on Teagan’s face as she neared orgasm, as he also neared his. As she pulled his lips onto hers, one armed reached back and grabbed her good leg, pulling it so her ankle rested near his shoulder. He grunted as his speed continued to increase and he pulled his face from hers. His eyes were closed and it was clear he was at the edge of his release. <br><br>He hoped she would reach his peak now because he could hold out no longer. His voice cried out in a loud groan. His body shuddered and shook as he released inside her womanhood, he pump a few more times, through the orgasm till his body gave out. <br><br>Finally he slumped atop her, releasing her leg…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 04:38:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Even though she did not travel with Fire and Steel anymore, Teagan kept herself in fighting form. She stretched everyday to keep herself flexible. So when he lifted her good leg and pushed it up, it did not cause her any discomfort. Instead she was able to enjoy him thrusting even deeper inside her, driving his manhood into her cervix. “Valendir!” She cried out in passion as both of them climaxed as the same time. Her channel contracted around him as his member spilled his seed inside of her. He was only the second man she had ever been with, but this was the memory she would keep with her during her lonely nights. <br><br>Teagan kept her legs wrapped around him. She made no motion to move him from atop of her. His weight was not to much to make her uncomfortable. Quietly she laid with him basking in the afterglow of their love making. The future was not a concern. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 15:00:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It had been a most wonderful experience for Valendir. Never had he lived or felt so much. This was a gift she had given him, a gift he would cherish forever. The force of her orgasm has made him more aware of her powerful aura and it briefly encompassed him. He felt her legs wrapped about him. He hadn’t the strength to move, but he noticed his mass did not seem to hinder her. He was content to remain as he was for the time being. His eyes were opened and he stared into the flickering flames. <br><br>After a minute he did move, his softened member finally sliding out of her. He simply pushed his upper body off her and to the side while his lower body remained trapped by her legs. His arm remained across her body and his lay moved besides hers. His body was more relaxed than he could recall having been before. The pain in his leg returned, but it was more like a dull throb than real pain. Feeling a bit of chill he reached down and grabbed the blanket bunched at their feet and he pulled it to cover their naked forms. He wanted to say something… He felt he should but the words would not come. His head turned and he kissed her cheek before his eyes closed and slumber finally overtook him………….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 01:23:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His weight upon her was comfortable. There had always been something about Valendir that made her feel safe. Something, she realized, she could not claim about Donavan. Quickly she shoved the thought of the man from her mind, no longer able to think of him in the term of her husband. She was not going to let him ruin this moment. It was most likely the only one she would get with her silver haired elf. <br><br>He rolled off of her, but their legs remained entangled. That made her smile. He was going to let the connection remain between them while they slept. After he pulled the covers around them and settled down. She snuggled into him. She thought there were words in those expressive eyes, but he said nothing, only kissing her cheek. It was ok. She did not need words that would mean nothing on the morrow. His actions now would be the foundation of her dreams in her life to come. Bringing herself as close to him as possible she closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. Her dreams were not memorable but happy. Unless Valendir woke her, she would sleep well into the day… her body needing the rest and his closeness. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 13:46:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Calendar’s eyes fluttered open slowly. The fire had just about gone out and yet the room was bathed in a glow. He turned his head slightly to see the sun was shining outside creating ample illumination. He gently rolled off Teagan, hoping not to waken her. He drew the blanket to cover her before moving to the entrance to look over the slope that led back to the river. The sun was already quite high in the sky he noticed as he rubbed his eyes. Elves usually didn’t require much sleep, often only meditating but the previous night he’d slept more than he had the past few weeks combined. He looked back at Teagan’s sleeping form for a moment…<br><br>He turned to look at the river, and his homeland beyond. He could not return without dealing with the shame and disgrace of having slept with a human, and yet he had no regrets. He had done it and it had been wonderful. He’d do it again… But not now, he needed to clear his head, they still had a task to accomplish and he needed to get his mind cleared to do it. <br><br>The ground was still wet and very muddy. This would make travel even more dangerous, but at least the river was crossed. They were about a day behind schedule now and they would need to make haste, and yet he could not bring himself to wake her yet. He simply tried to recall what he new of this area. He’d been here only a few times and was unfamiliar with any of the communities. He would have to rely on her knowledge of the area to the south and east of here. <br><br>He moved back inside as soundlessly as only an elf could. He reached and put on his breeches, then donned his boots. With the wet ground his sandals would prove more of a hindrance. Remaining bare chested for now he kicked and prodded the fire until the flames returned. He built a stand and began to prepare a light breakfast. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 03:50:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan slept in a soundless slumber. Even in her sleep she had a smile on her face as she laid in Valendir’s arms. When he moved she made a sound of protest but she was still in deep sleep and settled once he brought the blackest back over her naked form. The bedroll was still warm and it smelled of him. Soon she was deeply back in the embrace of slumber. <br><br>It was the smell of cooking food that woke her next. He had been sharing his provisions for with her. He could not have much more. She had seen his packs, he had been gathering plants when they met. He would not have had a need to carry what he could gather or hunt for himself. They had not gathered or hunted in the past two days. With the loss of her bow she could not hunt. The pain of loosing what her father had worked so hard for squeezed her heart and caused her body to curl around itself. It was almost as painful as the discovery that her husband was a rapist and murderer. If the elf had not been paying attention to her, that grand movement would have garnered it. She wanted to cry but promised herself she would not cry in front of him again. <br><br>With resolve she did not feel. Teagan forced herself to get up. “Good morning” She said pleasantly but her brown eyes showed the sorrow she tried to hide. While still nude, she rolled up the bedroll. Aside from the memory of making love to Valendir, she felt like crap. When she finally made it to her mother’s arms she was going to have a good cry. For now she just slid into her pants and put her shirt on. She sat down with her boots in front of the fire wondering if she could even eat what Valendir was cooking. But they were very behind where they should be. She would need all the energy she could get to make up that time. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 13:45:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Valendir stirred the pot he noticed Teagan was awakening. He watched her beautiful form move to don her clothing. He had a light smile on his face this morning. The sun was shining, it was a good omen. “Good morning” he replied to her. He returned his eyes to the breakfast he was preparing. He pulled a plate from his pack and prepared a serving for her. It wasn’t much, some boiled vegetables and roots and the last of his dried meat, both seasoned with some rare elven spices some of which had rejuvenating properties. <br><br>He moved across the room to hand Teagan the plate and a fork, followed by a cup of elven tea. He then quietly moved back to grab the pot, a wooden fork and his own cup of tea. He moved to a take a seat near Teagan. After taking a few bites he turned to her… “We will need to move fast today… How is your leg?” he started. He seemed to be more amicable this morning, perhaps a by-product of last night’s activities. “We will also need to gather some supplies somewhere…” he brought the cup to his lips and took a hearty drink. “Do you know the area to the south much?”<br><br>The shame of last night’s events and his hostility were pushed back. There was work to be done. Though his people may turn their collective backs on him, he would not turn his on them. If the past few days events were going to put the elven homeland in peril he would work to prevent it from happening, or at least warn those responsible for her safety.&nbsp; <br><br>Still, as he ate memory of last night’s events continue to play out in his mind. He looked at Teagan for a moment in between bites. Her hands, her lips, her tongue… Everything about her had been wonderful. He longed to close the distance between them and commence the dance again, but he could not. Not now. He turned back to his breakfast…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 06:01:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She decided he was an ethereal being. He was smiling and she felt uplifted by his presence, even if it was just a little. A soft smile appeared on her lips and even dared to touch the corner of her brown eyes. After the past two days she thought she would never see him in a good mood again. Looking at him now was like looking at the past and seeing something she had wanted. <br><br>She took the plate of food and the tea. “Thank you.” She replied softly before taking a sip of tea. Her leg did not hurt much anymore and the tea should take the rest of it away. Even after what they had shared she was surprised that Valendir sat down near her. It was not close enough to be personal but showed that he was not thinking in the terms of human and elf at the moment. That made Teagan smile. She was not foolish enough to dream anymore, so she did not bother to think that this could be an example for other humans and elves to follow. Most likely, no one else would ever know. Neither race would look favorably upon them. She had no idea how old Valendir was, but he probably would still look as he did now when she was old and gray. <br><br>“I should not have a problem with a brisk pace.” She said as she pulled herself out of her musings. “My leg is much better. How is yours?” He did have the newer wound and he had donned his pants before she woke up, though his chest was well cut and not bad at all to look at. “Once we get with in a couple of miles of my house, then I will know the area. Eatable roots and berries grow along the river bank and there are many rabbit borrows. I do not know how far we away we are, but I do not see why this area would be much different that what is down river. There is not a vast difference in elevation.” It was rockier and one definitely noticed they were on a mountain now, if they had not known it for the past few miles. <br><br>She stared at his eyes for a moment before concentrating on the meal he had provided. She quietly worked on creating memories that she would need for her life alone. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 14:42:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir watched Teagan’s eyes as she ate. He could read allot from people by looking at their eyes, but Teagan remained a mystery. She did seem to be smiling a bit more this morning. He ate at the food upon his plate but he looked forward to a big feed of fresh meat. He would love to have a real meal with this woman... A meal of red meat and wine...<br><br>He was glad to hear her leg was better, he wished he could say the same. His leg was starting to throb, but he wouldn’t say it, he did not want her to think he was weak. He could deal with the pain he decided and the tea would help. He would be able to set a fast pace today and keep to it. There would be time for healing later. <br><br>His eyes kept moving to her form, watching her as she ate. She was beautiful for a human. Valendir wondered what this all meant… Was last night more like a dream to be forgotten? Or perhaps it was destiny… He pushed those thoughts from his mind. He’d always been melodramatic almost to a fault. He decided to try and be more human, and just leave things as they were for the time being…<br><br>“I’m glad to hear your leg is better… Mine is fine… thank you” he said when she asked. He took a drink of the tea, already feeling its effects. “I think we will need to move quickly…. The road ahead seems mostly to be lightly wooded rolling hills so it shouldn’t be difficult. I do not know this area very well….” He said as he finished what had remained in the pot. He placed it on the ground next to the fire. “Are there any towns, or villages in the area?” he asked looking over to her. <br><br>Every time he looked at her he could not help but see her naked, bathed in the glow of the fire. He would have to push these thoughts away, and soon. She was still married, and therefore what they’d done was unlawful. Did she regret it? Would she try and find a way to see past every thing and work her differences with the man, assuming he was alive and Valendir didn’t put an arrow through him at first sight? That was what he wanted… to kill her husband, now more than ever. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>23-07-2006, 19:27:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She knew he was lying when he said his leg was ok, but she had no doubt that they would make good time. She would have to insist that they stop enough to rest. “Not anymore.” She replied solemnly. She had tried to pick the quietest place she could find. Once she had gotten pregnant she was going to send for her mother to pull the older woman away from such hard work. Her mother deserved grandchildren and to be taken care of. Well at least now she could go take care of her mother. She shook her sorrow from her mind and reminded herself they had a task to complete. They needed to see it the attack was a threat to the elves. <br><br>Having finished her food, she put the plate aside and but on her boots on. “I need to relieve myself. I will be back to help you pack up in a few minutes.” She left with out even a backwards glance. She still needed a good cry though she would not allow herself long. Once outside the cave she walked a little ways into the woods. She relieved herself quickly then found a place among the rocks. Curling herself up into a little ball, she silently let the tears slide down her cheeks. She would give herself a few minutes and then return to Valendir.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-07-2006, 17:15:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir just nodded as he sipped at his tea. He watched her as she exited the cave, headed for the tree line to the left. He stood finally, and began rinsing the plates and cups, then packing them away. He began packing the supplies, stopping occasionally to sip again at the warm tea. He noticed she was taking a long time to relieve herself, but shrugged at the idea of going to look for her. <br><br>When he got to the bedroll and blanket he squatted down holding them in his hands before bringing them to his nose, he could smell her scent, which made him pause… Finally he shook his head and smiled, rolling both up and attaching them to his pack. He took a light shirt and pulled it over his head before doing the same with a shirt of light elven chain. <br><br>He continued to patiently wait for Teagan, deciding to douse the fire with his water skin knowing he could refill it from one of the many nearby springs. Again he paused and considered going to see what was keeping her… She was very independent… And strong and again he decided to wait….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 02:27:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When it came down to the tears that she shed, Teagan was surprised to discover that they were only for the miller’s daughter. She could picture the young girl in awe of all the soldiers; men of the likes which she was unaccustomed. The girl had been pretty with the promise of much more once womanhood finally claimed her. She could also picture the girl lying in the dirt, naked, abused and broken… bleeding from wounds that had nothing to do with her maiden head. Teagan could see it well. She had witnessed the results from other armies and groups. <br><br>She tried to convince herself that Donavan was not capable of such acts. The more she tried the more she remembered his cruelty as a child. It had never been directed towards her, but animals often ended up hurt in his care and other boys quiet trying to hide their wounds. There had been times when they argue that she could see it in his eyes that she wanted to hit her and the dare to do so had been in hers. She could fight as well as any man and if one dared to hit her she would hit back. Her presence always felt like a leash to his wildness.<br><br>But he was capable of such tenderness. There was more to his charm that just his smile. He was eloquent with words and the few times that he did things for her they were totally unexpected. Still it was not enough to counter the weight of her heavy heart or to change her mind against what her soul felt was true. “I cannot give you peace. I am not sure I want to live this life, but I cannot take a task where the result is assured death for someone already dead.” She said it looking at a perfect image of the girl in her minds eye.&nbsp; She let the image fade and opened her eyes. More time had passed that she had intended.<br><br>By the short walk to the cave she had dried her eyes. It may be apparent that she had been crying but not having a mirror she could not tell. For a moment she stood at the entrance and watched him. His movements were graceful and efficient. She could not help but to notice how handsome he was or the way he seemed to be a part of what ever surrounded him. “Would you like me to braid your hair?” she asked as she went to check that her belongings were placed evenly in her bag. She would have placed his bedroll with her things for her to carry if his pride were not so stubborn.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 15:55:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir stood straight when he spotted Teagan standing at the entrance to the cave. He could see the redness of her eyes, and it stung him like a sharp blade through the heart. Was she crying over what had happened? He’d thought it was what she’d wanted. Perhaps he’d been a fool, perhaps she’d only been vulnerable and he had taken advantage and now she regretted what had happened? For a moment he couldn’t help but feel a tinge of fear in his heart, as they stood looking at each other…<br><br>Her question struck him as odd, and confused him even more. Why did humans have to be so emotional? So prone to acting without putting serious thought to the subject. He continued to look at her for a moment. “Perhaps when we stop for lunch, right now I think it would be best to start moving as soon as possible” he answered as he bent to his pack, tightening the last of the straps that held the equipment together. He pulled out a piece of string, and he proceeded to tie his hair in a pony tail.&nbsp; <br><br>He strapped his belt on, adjusting the fine elven sword that hung from it and slung his quiver over his shoulder. He drug his pack and bow to the entrance and set them down before turning to Teagan. He laid a hand upon her arm and he looked down into her eyes. “I’m sorry if I’ve burdened you…. But I regret nothing about last night” he finished leaning in to kiss her cheek. <br><br>He pulled away and slung his pack and grabbed his bow before moving outside into the warming sun. He tested his leg, it still hurt like hell, but it would do. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 04:02:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan lowered her face in confusion and continued to needlessly check her bag. Why had he denied her something that would have been simple and quick for her to do? She had thought he preferred his hair braided. Especially when they were trekking through trees and bushes that even a pony tail could get caught on. She wondered if they were going to go back to the awkwardness of the days before. With a sigh she put on her armor and sword then swung her pack onto her back. Gods she missed her bow. <br><br>At the entrance he turned to face her. She could not hide the confusion in her puffy eyes. He placed his hand on her arm, bringing back pleasant memories. Yet her confusion kept her from smiling. She looked at his hand then back to his eyes. She was stunned by his words and his kiss on her cheek. She did not understand the need for the comment and he was outside before she gathered herself. <br><br>With determination to meet the future she followed. “it is good that you do not regret laying with me.” She said from behind him and placed her hand on his shoulder. “Because I to not regret it either.” She put pressure on him to turn. If he did she would kiss him on the lips… there in the open, though only because she was sure they were very alone. She would not risk his life for her selfish desire.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 15:23:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir waited patiently, looking to the horizon and the wooded hills that lay before them. He wondered just what peril would lie in wait. Then his eyes crossed the great river to his homeland. The most beautiful woods of this realm he had no doubt. In a way he was sorry he’d left it, he was sorry Teagan had crossed his path yesterday. His life as a gatherer was simple. Things were different now, very different. Should he return to his homeland he would be scorned and looked down upon. Glancing back at the cave’s entrance as Teagan emerged finally he wondered if it had been worth it. Turning away… He couldn’t help but think it had…<br><br>He’d been deep in thought again when he felt her hand upon his shoulder. At her words he turned to face her. He was relieved to hear she did not regret the last night’s events, and it even warmed him some on the inside. He knew they had to get going quickly, but his legs refused to move. When she leaned into him for a kiss his eyes closed and he leaned in as well. He felt her lips touch his, and he kissed her back, glad for this small but very significant moment. <br><br>Finally he reluctantly pulled away, but for a lingering moment his eyes remained closed. When they opened he simply looked at her, until he spoke “We need to get going…” he said. He hesitated another moment before turning and picking up the walking stick. He began moving down the hill. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 03:24:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment she feared he was going to reject her gesture. It surprised her at how much it mattered. As their lips met she pushed the thought from her mind. This was nothing more than a friendship, nothing more than male and female attraction. For her caring they would part ways and never tell anyone of the passion they had shared. That same passion that threatened to awaken again as their warm lips pressed against each other. Teagan stifled a protest as he backed away and was thankful his eyes were still closed as she regained her composure. <br><br>“Of course” she managed to reply and followed him down the hill. This time she intentionally kept a short distance behind him. Her mind was back to normal, paying attention to the signs of life that was and had been around them. Once they cleared the rocks, she would move to walk parallel with them so they could cover a wider area. “How are you feeling?” she asked when he stopped at a spring to fill the waterskin. “I can carry some of your load if you wish or take point.” She offered before she dipped her hands in the crystal clear water and slowly slipped the cold water in her hands. If she led she could control their pace. She would still push hard, but not has hard as his ego had been driving them for the past hour. His face seemed more pale to her, but she knew he would not tell her how bad his leg was. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 16:19:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir moved silently along a deer trail towards their destination. He could hear and almost feel Teagan’s presence behind him. It took a while to get away from the old ruins and once on more easily navigable terrain he picked up the pace a bit, but it didn’t last. After a bit, about the time Teagan fell in besides him the pain in his leg had made it impossible to keep the pace. Still moving aggressively, but at a slower overall pace he noticed the spring and weaved towards it. It had been a few hours since they’d left the comfort of the cave, and he welcomed the opportunity to rest. <br><br>He set himself to filling both his skins when she spoke, breaking the silence. “I am fine” he said looking away. He knew she knew it was a lie, the pain in his leg was intensifying but he would press on… “You may take point if you wish… After a brief rest…” he finished surprised at himself for making that statement.<br><br>He moved to a large broken log lying across the path and he sat upon it, drinking from his skin. “There should be a settlement not far if my memory serves me correctly. We should be able to pick up provisions…” he said. He didn’t think they’d reach it by midday, but definitely before sundown. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 03:33:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He surprised her when he said she could take point. He must be in more pain than she thought. There was not enough time to make him more tea. It was another surprise that she felt a dull ache in her heart that he was suffering.&nbsp; For his pride she said nothing, but put her pack down and took out the comb.<br><br>Teagan did not give Valendir the option, she did not ask. She walked up behind him and took the tie from his hair as he sat on the log. He could not run away and she planned on taking her time. “It has been abandoned for a while now, for longer than I have been here.” Gently she began to comb the tangles out of his silky hair. It was not a difficult task given the nature of Elves, but still she moved slow. Her purpose now to enjoy the feeling of he hair in her hands rather then him resting his leg. That was just a bonus.<br><br>“We will stop there for the night and tomorrow we can reach my home.” She almost choked on the last word, but her eyes remained dry and her hands steady. Starting at the top of his hair she worked his hair into a French braid. His hair was much longer than hers, much finer and not one strand was out of place when she finished. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 15:37:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He felt somewhat refreshed after drinking almost a skin full of the fresh water. He dropped the skin on the ground for now as he watched Teagan rifle through he pack. As she neared him with the comb he was about to protest but decided against it. He’d said she could do it later, and the length of it was awkward to say the least. He gave her easy access to it, as he felt her manoeuvre behind him. He leaned back into her a bit, glad to feel the warmth of her body. <br><br>He listened to her speak of the settlement, and he was disappointed to hear it was abandoned. This would complicate matters, he did not want to delay their trek by having to stop to hunt, and his provisions, which were meagre before were now all but gone. If it had been abandoned that long nothing would likely remain, which means her homestead would be the first opportunity they would have to re-supply, and was likely to be guarded. He could feel the comb move effortlessly through his hair. The feel of her fingers in her hair made him almost too comfortable he realized as he closed his eyes for a moment, the pain in his leg now forgotten.<br><br>Her voice brought him out of his near slumber, his eyes fluttered open slowly. He wasn’t sure how to reply, knowing it would likely be difficult for her to return to her home. He decided to say nothing as she began braiding his hair. As she was just about done he thought about his hair. Elves usually did not cut their hair, it was simply part of their culture, they let it grow. Now that he would likely be an outcast when word reached one of the many social centers, he realized there was no longer any social significance to keeping it long… “I think I will cut my hair… Tonight... When we stop, I should like for you to cut it Teagan?” he asked without turning to her… <br><br>Satisfied with the braid he stood finally, refilling his skin and picking up his pack…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>29-07-2006, 19:24:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan felt relaxed and happy when she had finished his hair. It was something simple and when it was done, it was done. There was nothing else to do but look at his beauty. His face held such elegance both with his hair framing his face and pulled back. His comment about cutting his hair she could not help but to look at him in shock. “No… why… what?”<br><br>She took a moment to breathe. “Valendir is there a reason you want to cut your hair? I would hate to cut something so beautiful, but if it is what you want…” Really she was at a loss for words. What was going on in his head and heart that he would want to remove a part of him that he had been working on for a very long time?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>31-07-2006, 17:10:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was standing looking at Teagan as she spoke to him. He really did not want to get into it. He realized perhaps he should have kept his hair to himself for the time being. She was not knowledgeable in the Elven ways, she would not understand. He also did not want to burden her knowing she would no doubt blame herself. Perhaps later he would get into it, but not now, not here. He buckled the last of his pack tightly. <br><br>“There is a reason yes, but now is not the time” he said as he slung his pack over his shoulders. He offered his hand to help her rise. “We need to start moving if we want to reach the abandoned settlement by nightfall.” He said trying to put on a cold exterior again. The last thing he wanted was to let her see how emotional he’d become. He needed to get back his edge. She had an effect on him no one had ever had. He wanted to experience more with Teagan but he knew there was a time and a place...<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:56:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It became apparent the moment Valendir answered that she had no clue as to who he was. All of those times when she thought he was letting down his guard and showing what was beneath that frosty silver surface, she was foolishly weaving her own fantasy around him. “You are right. It was none of my business. I’ll shave you bald if that is your wish.” She ignored his hand and stood on her own. With out so much as a second glance she dropped the comb in her pack and swung the pack on her shoulders. <br><br>Taking point was good for her. She had to spend most of her time looking at the trail and scouting for any enemies they might encounter… elf, human or animal. Though her skills were not that of an elf, she was still extremely good for a human and a woman on top of that. Despite her lack of good judgment where men were concerned she had much to be proud of. She did not need man or elf to validate her worth, yet she wondered why the elves thought it so bad to be human<br><br>After a while she thought that her tone was a bit harsh. She was angry at herself for both her stupidity and vulnerability. But then she would switch thoughts and remember how aloof he had been. He shut her out. If the elf could survive alone so could she. With each step she walked a little further away from what made her Teagan. Her heart felt as if it were turning to stone never to feel the warmth of another again. <br><br>With her concentration on the terrain and picking the safest and easiest route for Valendir to travel she had lost track of time. If her wounded comrade did not signal for her to stop, they would arrive at the abandoned settlement an hour early.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 15:40:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir could only sigh as Teagan did what humans did best. Allow themselves to be taken by rash emotional behaviour. He’d meant no offence; it was just that he did not wish to speak of it. He’d said something he should have kept to himself apparently. She’d refused to take his hand and that was fine, she was a strong woman who needed the help of no one. He watched her pack her comb and start moving. He was about to say something, but decided it would be best no to throw fuel into the fire.<br><br>Humans he thought to himself. He would never understand them. He’d asked her a simple question, yet he did not realize his request would require further elaboration. Why couldn’t things remain simple, why did Teagan constantly try to get into his head? <br><br>He began to follow her, but after a few hours he began to lag behind. He tried to keep up, but his leg simply could not keep the pace. It was fine he thought, he could easily follow the trail she left behind. He was surprised at the pace, and the fact she didn’t even stop to check on him, or to take a breather, or drink of water. He’d hoped to stop for a bite near midday but she pressed on. Perhaps she needed to distance herself from him… <br><br>Finally he needed to rest, though he did not signal her. Let her continued, let her get lost… He would be rid of her rash and reckless behaviour… He stopped and sat on a fallen stump. Taking out his water skin he gulped greedily from it. He cursed his luck and he cursed his predicament. He should have stayed in his forest. Unfortunately the humans had a way of involving everyone in their affairs, whether willingly or not. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 00:35:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She wasn’t quite sure when she had lost him. It was horrible of her. She had never abandoned a partner before, let alone one who was injured and would not have the same chance to defend himself as he would normally. However bad she felt, she could not make herself turn around. She had reached the settlement and it was in sad shape. There was one stone building left with four walls standing and it only had half a rotting roof. It was better than nothing she guessed. <br><br>As she cleared out a place for both of them to rest in the rubble, she had time to wonder what was wrong with her. What about her was so bad that her presence did not matter? That the fact that she cared did not matter? Donavan found it easy to be with out her, yet she had taken almost a year to sleep through the night with out him by her side. She missed him for longer still until her heart finally had enough of breaking. Had it been so wrong to be concerned about Valendir’s well being that he had responded to her so coldly? It was true that having sex with him, did not give her rights to know his mind but still it stung. There had been nothing more than physical pleasure between the two of them. They had no friendship and she was still alone. <br><br>The sun was going down. She worked on finding dry wood. A quickly made snare managed to catch a rabbit and she found some berries that were ripe and editable. She found an old pot and filled it with cold water so she could tend to his leg. She may have left the elf behind, but she did not rest nor eat. The work kept her busy as the sun slipped from the sky. If he did not show up soon she would retrace her steps and look for him. Another lump added to her leadened heart. If something had happened to him because of her abandonment she had no idea how she would live with herself. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 15:17:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir rested for a bit longer before finally loading his pack and strapping it on his shoulder once again. He looked back the way they had come, the shortest way back to his homeland and for a brief moment he considered turning back… This thought remained only for an instant. He quickly gathered his cloak around himself and began moving towards the settlement. <br><br>The shadows were already getting long as he finally reached the settlement. He could smell smoke, and followed the scent to an old stone building, mostly intact except for part of the roof. He could hear movement within and guessed Teagan was busily making preparations for the evening. He paused staring at the building for a moment… he wondered what he should do or say to her, if he should say anything at all. He quickly convinced himself he’d done nothing wrong… He had nothing to feel bad for, it was Teagan who was confused and distraught. He would not feel guilt for her weaknesses. <br><br>Limping heavily he moved into the structure and look around, seeing that much of the work was already done. The sun had set by now, and after seeing everything was in order he moved to the back of the shelter, under cover of what was left of the roof. He set his pack down without saying so much as a word. He leaned his bow against the side of the structure and unhooked his belt, leaning the sword alongside the bow. He reached for a stump and sank heavily upon it, drawing his water skin and taking a long drink. <br><br>Valendir was hungry, as he looked over at the boiling pot. He couldn’t help but smell the wild meat, and his mouth watered slightly. Seeing that no work needed to be done, he unbuckled his armour and greaves, setting them down. He then removed his boots and set himself to massaging the pain from his leg, still refusing to acknowledge the human woman…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>03-08-2006, 00:59:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sun was dropping ever lower in the sky and she was getting worried. She gutted the rabbit and against her desire made a fire to cook it. It was all to keep her from going after him. She never wanted to look desperate for anyone again.&nbsp; Part of her hoped he would turn around and go home. She had no intentions of neglecting her purpose to see if the raiders were a threat to the elves… but if they were, she could always write the warning on a parchment so they would find it after they killed her. <br><br>She did not hear him until he was almost at the door way. It was a testament to his skill and his endurance. He had to be hurting. With a tremendous effort she kept her face stoic to keep him from seeing how much is pain hurt her heart. It was even more difficult to convince herself that his aloofness did not hurt her heart as well. Teagan was social, she enjoyed people. But she had to learn that just because she needed people, did not mean she was better of being around them. <br><br>Once he set down his pack, she moved to it and removed his plates. With out a word she fixed his plate, giving him the larger share of the rabbit and the berries. She filled a pot with water from one of his waterskins and put it on the fire to warm for his tea. After that was done she put the plate on his lap. If he did not want it on the ground he would have to take it. If he did she would sit on the floor before him and begin to massage his injured leg. If he let it fall she would return to the other side of the room to fix him what was left of the food. Even after the march and the work she had done, she felt no need for food. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-08-2006, 18:21:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir had only just started rubbing the pain out of his leg when Teagan stood before him. He looked up at her and gave her a weak smile, but it was a smile nonetheless. He didn’t have the strength to be mad at her. As he looked into her eyes in the still dimming light his mind went back to last night, and the time they spent in each others arms… He grabbed the plate on his lap before it fell and quickly looked away.<br><br>He took a long spoonful of the stew and he smiled, looking back at her as she sat on the floor. “It’s very good Teagan…” he said. “You don’t have to do that, why not share with me…” he gestured to the stew. They’d walked all day, and unless she ate before he got here she’d need food. “I did not mean to upset you… Or anger you….” He said as he took another spoonful into his mouth. <br><br>“There are things about elven culture that would seem… difficult. I know you have enough to worry you, I do not which to burden you further.” He looked over towards the fire for a moment. He noticed the water above the flames. He looked forward to the tea, though after the effect last night he would add a lesser dose of the herbs. <br><br>He drew his cloak a little tighter, feeling a slight chill. The pain in his leg seemed to be diminishing; Teagan was good with her hands. Having had his fill of the stew, he gently laid the bowl down on the ground. “Teagan… Last night was… wonderful.” He said, one hand moving cup her cheek. He wasn’t sure of himself, he was tired and sore, and he still felt the chill in his bones. But sitting there looking at Teagan gave him a warming sensation inside… <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>05-08-2006, 03:50:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I am not hungry.” Teagan replied as she set to work on his leg. Her hands moved gently but firmly along his muscles, manipulating them to relax and encouraging blood flow. He may not have had the strength to be mad at her, but she did not have the will to smile. It had seemed if all the weariness of the world found their way into her brown eyes. She listened, her face appeared tired but she still said nothing. She was uncertain of so many things what to say was among them. <br><br>When he wrapped himself in his cloak she noticed how far he was sitting away from the fire. He had not felt welcome when he came in. She had to wonder if his words now were a lie. Yet her heart lurched slightly when she felt his fingers on her face. She nestled her face into his hand before she realized what she had done. Her hands stopped moving on his legs and she sighed. “Yes it was.” She looked back at the fire, but made no move his hand from her face. “I don’t understand why men think caring is a burden or what is so bad about being human.” She looked back at him. Now was as good as time as any to own up to her bad behavior.&nbsp; “I should not have left you behind. I’m sorry. I’ll help you cut your hair if you want.” There seemed to be more sadness in the last line as if it would be something she would regret. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 01:59:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The work she did on his leg was wonderful. The pain had quickly diminished and feeling had returned. He sighed at her obvious discomfort. He could see it in her eyes. He did not want to talk about it, but he quickly realized he would have to. He listened to her speak and when she was done he sighed again, making him sound very tired. He stood, taking her hand and pulling her up. He moved closer to the fire, finding a log he pulled it closer and sat, gesturing for her to sit near him, and if she would, he would take her hand in his. <br><br>“I’ve never said it is bad to be human… it is just… being human. We come from different worlds Teagan, and there are things in my world that would seem strange to you…” He began, looking into the fire. The sun had set and the moon was climbing. He let his cloak fall now that he was closer to the fire. In as calm, and emotionless a voice as he could muster he continued, “You probably should not have left me, but you did because you are human, and your emotions dictated your actions.” He said, trying not to sound judgmental. “And perhaps…. Perhaps I should have told you the reason I wish to cut my hair, but I did not, because my… Elven stubbornness prevented me…” he tried to smile, looking at her. <br><br>“Elves who leave the homeland are usually looked down upon, as I was, when I left to join Fire and Steel. I did not see the reasoning behind it until I returned to my homeland all those years ago. I had become…. Humanized.” He said, turning to stare into the fire. “I joined the Rangers, but was quickly removed because of my rash decision making and recklessness. Traits I obviously picked up from you…” he said again with a small laugh, it was meant as a joke. “That is why I took the task of a gatherer, because I could work alone. This is all part of elven culture Teagan.” He finished.<br><br>He stood and dropped the tea leaves into the boiling water, and poured two cups before sitting close to Teagan once again, handing one cup to her. “Even worse than leaving the homeland to adventure beyond her borders, is for an elf…. to mate with a human. When this happens, the elf is usually removed from elven society, and cast out… thus becoming an outcast, or an ‘Illumine’, never again to cast eyes on the center of elven society. When we gather the information, and return it to the elves… I will confess… And I will become an Illumine…” he finished with a hint of sadness in his voice… “This is why I did not want to tell you, I did not want you to assume the burden that is rightfully mine.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 05:09:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				What does one do when their world falls apart? If now and the last 10 years of her life had been any indication… suffer it in silence because not even your friends cared to know. She could tell by his sighs that this was not something he wanted to discuss. If she had thought she could not feel more alone when she had arrived at the abandoned settlement she was wrong. Though he pulled her up to her feet it seemed as if he were touching someone else. When he sat, she sat near him as he had asked and made no protest when he took her hand. <br><br>Teagan made no comment as he talked. His voice, which she once thought beautiful was dull and flat. She wondered if the music he had created with his voice was another illusion her mind had made up. <br><br>“Humanized.” She snorted in disgust at the word but showed no anger toward him. “You say that it is not bad to be human, yet your people shun you because you have become what it is not bad to be? Not even considering that being beaten and left for dead by those you should have been able to trust would made the God of Peace and angry being.” She could not forget what her husband had done to him because of her. Now it seemed in her ignorance she was once again causing Valendir great harm. <br><br>“Are you so ashamed of lying with me that you would present it to someone else a crime against your people? Or does your heart have so little need for your family that you would share what does not belong to you alone?” Valendir had to be impressed with her calm tone. It was not as dispassionate as his had been, yet she spoke with only a hint of the devastation she was feeling. “Last night was a beautiful moment between you and I. No others were there. It belongs to me too and I would not have the memory cheapened by conveying it to someone who views it as wrong.”<br><br>She reached up to caress his face with the hand that was not holding the cup. “Human passion may be our greatest weakness but it is also our greatest strength. I do not think I will ever understand a people who shuns one of their own based on who that one was kind to and called friend. Nor do I understand your need for you to flee your people but I will not be your reason.” Her brown eyes looked into his of bluish silver and it showed that she was speaking with affection. “I am going back to my village to see if there is any danger to the Elven kingdom because your home is the next closest settlement. For the love of all that is living I would make no other choice. You are an elf, the protection of your home is the same purpose. There is no need to tell anyone more.”<br><br>He might not agree with her words. In truth she had no idea how he would react. But she felt more confident in herself. She was a seasoned warrior. Her observations and judgments had been used to direct others in battle. She just hadn’t decided how hard she was going to fight for a life that she would be happy to live. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 14:38:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir had tried to make her see his point, but had obviously missed the mark. It was difficult for him to speak of these things. Elven life was controlled, and in constant order leaving little room for guessing or doubting. He was impressed with how she kept her composure; usually she was prone to emotional outbursts, but not this time. He wondered at how to reply as he took a sip of the tea. He did keep his smile, showing that her words were sinking in. He wanted her to feel comfortable, he wanted to wash away any thought that he did not want to be there. <br><br>“I do not believe it is bad to be human, it is only different. The elven people have survived for several millennia because they fear change… They… We’ve always adhered to a strict code of conduct that has ruled over our people, it has kept us from turning against each other, such as the petty war’s the various human kingdoms wage constantly.” He said looking back at her. He smirked at her next words, and he thought of how to reply… “It is not because I am ashamed of what we did that I will confess… On the contrary, I am glad it happened, and it is because of that that I will tell them. I will not hide the joy and warmth you have shown me behind a wall of silence.” He turned towards the fire, a hint of fear for what he was telling Teagan was held within his eyes. <br><br>He felt her hand upon his skin, and he smiled warmly, and after a moment he spoke again, “I will not abandoned my people, and but I will not flee either. Ever since I left the Rangers I knew things were different, I knew many would rather see me leave for the solitude of the woods than have me share a meal with them. It is only now that I see that perhaps…” he stopped, pausing for a moment, “Perhaps it is best for me to work from the outside… The hair is a symbol, a reminder of what I will never be.” He looked at her with affection as well. She was the closest thing he had to a friend. Even his family had abandoned him long ago. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>09-08-2006, 04:09:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The words he spoke made her sad. While she had not seen her on family in about a year she could not imagine being parted from them because they did not want her around. She took a sip of the tea because she needed something on her stomach yet still felt ill at the thought of food. “Knowing me has harmed you beyond repair. Your rashness anger when you returned home could only have been caused by what you suffered. Donavan would not have done what he did to you had it not been for me.” Emotion seeping back into her voice but there was no real energy behind it. All of this was so exhausting. She wanted to crawl into his arms and sleep. <br><br>“And last night will sever what little acceptance you have left from your people. There are no words that can express my remorse. You deserve so much better than what life has given you.” She had accepted the fact that there would be no man to share her heart with and the children that made their way into her arms would not be her own. But Valendir deserved to have someone to share his life with. He deserved children to ensure that his heart and beauty of soul would continue into the future. Had she been braver she would have invited him to her mother’s home. Finally she dropped her hand into her lap, but she could not look away from his face.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-08-2006, 15:58:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir listened intently; he raised his arm, wrapping it around Teagan’s shoulders giving her a squeeze. He also brought his cup to his lips, and he inhaled the vapours before taking a drink of the hot liquid. “Teagan…. Everything that has happened to me was my doing. I chose to leave my home to adventure in human lands, knowing full well the consequences. I returned to my homeland in spite of it, and last night I chose to… be with you, also knowing the consequences. This choice I made…” he said, hoping she would see it was not her fault. “Donavan did what he had to do because of who he is. His reasons are his own, and you cannot blame yourself. The guilt will destroy you. You were as much a victim in all this as I…” he finished. <br><br>“My life is unfolding as the Elven Gods deem it necessary. This is my destiny…” he said. He could not understand why the Gods chose this life for him, but he would not dispute them, they were all powerful after all. He continued to look down at her beautiful but sad face. His broke into a smile. It was warm and inviting… Perhaps it was an effect of the tea again, perhaps not. All he knew was that right there and then, he felt like she was his only friend in the world.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:35:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He hugged her. Not since she said goodbye to her mother had she been hugged and it felt as good as water did to a thirsty man. She wanted to stay close to him and sooth her battered soul with his own but she knew that was just pain and loneliness talking. It would be so easy to get caught up in a fantasy of emotion and center it all of the beautiful elf beside her. <br><br>“You’re destiny should be a wife to wrap around you in the cold of night and children to watch during the warmth of the day. No one should have to live alone when they’ve done no harm to the world.” She could not resist the invitation of that smile. She knew it was an attempt to make her feel better… perhaps it did. For the moment Valendir was all she had. Teagan leaned over and placed her lips against his. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 19:29:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Valendir held her tightly visions of the previous night ran through his mind. It had truly been special for him, and the way she melded in his arms she must have felt the same. Her voice had gone back to the warm sounds he realized he’d been longing to hear. He kept looking at her, as she began to lean into him. His eyes slowly closed as he kissed her back, pressing with equal pressure, enjoying the damp, moist flavour of her lips…<br><br>After a moment he pulled back… he still smiled and looked at her. One hand moved to brush some hair from her face. “Oh my dear Teagan…. Family life for an elf is different from that of a human… Our small family units are not as close as those of humans… Which I truly admire. But when an elf leaves the ‘nest’ he lets go of his family, sometimes never seeing them again. The parents are happy to let their children go into the world, knowing they have done the task appointed to them. I know it sounds cold, but that is elven culture. Then the parents begin anew with new children.”<br><br>As he spoke, he realized it must sound very alien to Teagan. He realized he’d never spoken so much of elven culture as he had in the past 24 hours. He’d seen the way humans were with family, and deep inside he felt a bit of jealousy. He almost longed to feel that kind of love but knew as an elf he never would. He turned his gaze to the fire, but he kept a tight hold on her. “We often do not get to choose our paths…. Our paths are often chosen for us.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 13:38:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As they kissed the illusion of peace filled her again. She knew it to be a lie, but she did not fight it. She did not want to. <br><br>Teagan found it difficult to understand how the elves could be they way they are. To be so rigid and aloof just to avoid the possibility of conflict that might never happen. “I must confess the more you tell me the more I am glad to be human. My mother will be so happy to see me when I return and even more happy that I will be staying, despite the fact that I have no been successful with my life. There would be very little I could do to alienate myself to her.”<br><br>She reached her hand around his back and let his braid slide through her fingers. “I will cut your hair in the morning. That way you can bathe to make sure the hair is off your body. There are enough things out there to make one itch while marching.” It was easy to tell by the way she caressed his hair that she was still loathe to do it. Hopefully he would still leave some length to it.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 15:30:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked back to Teagan as she spoke. He would like to meet her mother, to see where the beauty and sense of duty was born from. “Your mother sounds like a wonderful being…” he smiled at Teagan as he said it. “I’m certain she is proud of the daughter she has raised.” He thought he could understand what she meant, human life is short which was part of the reason they were the way they were. He felt a life should only be judge as successful at the end, when its entirety could be taken into account. Teagan was still young, and had a full life still in front of her. “I would very much like to meet her…” he finished. <br><br>He felt her hand move to touch his hair. He nodded to her in thanks, grateful that she would do it. That act alone would mean more to Valendir than having to cut it in the first place. He could tell she was hesitant, and he wished there was something he could do or say… “Teagan… I have no regrets. The life of a gatherer, while important, is not very fulfilling.” He said, hoping to alleviate her concern. Again his eyes moved to the fire, and he took another drink of tea. There is much of this world to be seen and experienced. Perhaps I can learn more from the humans…” or he could even go see to the dwarves, or if they even still exist in their mountain strongholds… <br><br>“Do you still think we will reach your home by tomorrow evening?” He asked curiously. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 02:30:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he spoke about meeting her mother she again wished she was brave enough to invite him to her mother’s home. She could face her lonely life with out a problem but her heart hurt at the thought of him by himself. Still she was afraid to make the offer. Afraid their differences and the way the world viewed them would make him turn her down. She was not ready for more rejection.<br><br>He had no regrets yet she did. It was his culture yet she wanted so much to tell him to ditch it. She had spent a large amount of her life traveling with the wrong person. Teagan realized now that her attraction to this silver haired elf was because he was everything Donavan was not. In her dreams she had traveled and Valendir had been the one to hold her at night as they kept themselves warm by the fire. She realized she could have that dream for one more night.<br><br>“Before. There should be plenty of light if we take a decent pace.” She moved her other hand to his injured leg and touched it lightly.&nbsp; “Let me wrap around you tonight. We can hold each other in our arms and talk about the dreams we have… or just stare at the stars through the hole in the roof.” She smiled softly but was unable to look at him. Her heart felt like it stopped beating waiting for him to say no.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 15:28:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With his arms still around her waist pulling her and holding her form against his he took a deep breath, taking in Teagan’s scent. He was getting familiar with the sweet smell, and he was beginning to wonder if all human females smelled this wonderful? He continued to watch the flames cackle and the thin smoke rise through the hole in the building. The cup he held in his free hand was brought to his lips and he took another drink, beginning to feel its soothing effect. <br><br>He wondered for a moment what she might be thinking. It must have been a horrible few days for her, the discovery of the truth about her bastard husband, the attack on her village and the loss of her father’s bow, just to name a few. Her life had been built upon a lie. <br><br>“Early during the day tomorrow we should move through the woods. The roads and tracks will not be safe…” he said, wondering if she’d taken that in consideration in her calculations. The bandits might still be in the area, and will no doubt be watching the roads…<br><br>He looked down at Teagan’s hand as if moved to touch his legs. He looked down at her when she spoke, and a smile touched his lips. He laid the cup upon the stone and moved his hand to her chin, moving her face up so he could look into her beautiful eyes. “I would like that very much” he said, leaning in slowly until his lips brushed against hers…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>15-08-2006, 04:08:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It almost seemed easier not to think of what the future would bring. Not tomorrow… not the next few minutes. Was it better not to know were the hurt could come from? As he tilted her face so that she had to look at him, she wondered how she could have even asked herself that question. Ignorance or stupidity… not knowing was much worse. Relief flooded through her body as he agreed to her proposal. <br><br>As Valendir leaned toward her so did she to him. Their lips touched and her eyes closed. Teagan gave all of herself into that kiss. Her heart temporarily let go of to all the strings of the past and gave itself completely to him. It seemed to her that there was nothing in her life that she had experience that had been more powerful. It was intoxicating the way their tongues danced and their lips moved in a harmonious dance with each other. Her hands moved to his chest and clutched his shirt in her fists just to keep from falling over.&nbsp; She began to fill like she was floating though a dream. <br><br>When she realized she was not breathing she broke the kiss and brought her hand up to caress his cheek. “I should prepare the camp for the night.” She whispered and forced herself to get out of his comfortable arms. “You stay there and rest your leg.” Of course it was a command, but not spoken like one. She took out his bed roll and placed it on a bed of dry pine needles that she had managed to find a little earlier. She placed more wood by the fire and cleaned up what she had used to cook. There wasn’t much she could do about the hole in the roof, but she placed a door she had woven from slim branches where the door of the building had once been. The windows were covered as well. They shouldn’t be as noticeable and Valedir’s arrows would have no problem going through them if they were discovered. “Do you need me to help you with anything?” She asked when she was close to being done. For a moment she was glad she had left him… it had given her a chance to bathe and make her body nice for him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-08-2006, 13:34:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir leaned into this human woman, wrapping both arms tightly around her and he got lost in the moment. He was amazed at the passion that emanated from the simple kiss. This was nothing like an elven kiss, usually rigid, short and emotionless. With Teagan it was very different. He felt the kiss not only upon his lips, but also in his heart, and in his soul. He felt her tongue search for his and he did not disappoint. <br><br>When she finally broke away he reluctantly loosened his grip on her, letting her pull away slowly. He heard the command in her sweet voice and offered no resistance. His hand began kneading the flesh of his thigh but his eyes; they remained locked upon her form as she moved about the campsite. The pain was numbed, barely even noticeable. Maybe his body was just reacting to Teagan’s closeness and that had helped as well. <br><br>As she readied the bedroll he loosened the straps on his armour, removing the pieces one at a time and laying them gently upon the soft ground. He undid the ties in his hair, letting it cascade about his shoulders. When she finally spoke he looked up at her, gratitude in his eyes and voice… “You’ve already done more for me than you could possibly imagine….” He said with a smile. He’d meant it; she’d given him the gift of emotion he realized. “I’m fine, though I might have another cup of tea” he said standing slowly. He stepped forward putting his full weight upon his bad leg, thankful just to be able to. The pain again seemed diminished. He moved to the fire and poured more of the tea into his cup before moving again to take a seat near the fire…. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-08-2006, 02:10:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan took off her boots and then sat on the bedroll next to Valendir. She wondered what a soul like his was doing trapped in a culture so restrictive. She smiled that he had unbraided his hair. Her fingers were combing though it before she could stop herself. With it’s length it was easy to bring to her cheek and enjoy the silky strands on her face with out pulling it. “Every little girl should have hair like this.” Hair was a weakness for her. Her mother had calmed her as a child by brushing and soothing her hair. She in turn soothed herself by brushing and playing with the hair of others. Donavan probably would have kept his hair short if he had not married her; though he did not complain when she tended it. <br><br>“I think the perfect place and time is sitting by a camp fire looking up at the stars and listening to a near by river flowing. Or perhaps even a little better, a waterfall.”&nbsp; She stopped playing with his hair and worked her arm under and around his, leaning close so that her head could lay comfortably on his shoulder. “What is your perfect place so when I see it I will know.” As she stared into the fire, she realized that it was so easy to forget the conversations she had with the man she no longer considered her husband. There was not a doubt in her mind that she would remember Valendir’s words perfectly until her last breath. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-08-2006, 14:25:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir felt Teagan’s fingers running through his hair. He was amazed at her fascination with it, but he made no comment, or effort to stop her. Truth be told he truly enjoyed the feel of her fingers running through it. He heard her comment, and still he remained silent, eyes fixed upon the fire. He reached for and undid the laces on his soft boots before tossing them haphazardly to the side, which was odd. He was usually anal about things like properly setting his boots neatly to the side. Perhaps Teagan was having a bigger influence on him than he’d initially thought. If she was, he was thankful. <br><br>He tilted her head and looked at her as he imagine the two of them standing underneath that waterfall, naked to the world around them, holding each other in a passionate embrace. It would be a perfect moment. A perfect moment was something rare and special to Valendir. A cherished tutor told him long ago that a perfect moment comes upon you when you least expect it, as if the gods suddenly look down upon you, and you just know it for what it is and you never take it for granted. Perfect moments had been few and far between in recent years. Valendir had even forsaken his gods somewhat cursing their names. He needed to pray in the morning, he needed to pray for forgiveness for his lack of faith. Perhaps then he would be allowed to start a new life…<br><br>He adjusted himself to receive her and he touch his cheek to the top of her head as she leaned against him. What was Valendir’s perfect place? Teagan constantly surprised him with these questions. No elf would even consider a perfect place, thinking the perfect place was where you were at any given moment. It was a human trait that he was beginning to love about Teagan. No matter how grim or sad, she could still surprise him with these kinds of questions. For a moment he considered saying 'by her side' would be the perfect place, but he did not want to add to her burden yet again. He wanted to be here for her, he wanted her to lean on him, he would do anything she wanted but considering their situation he wanted her to move at her pace, otherwise he was taking advantage of her situation. <br><br>Finally he spoke, his voice clear, just above a whisper over the cackling of the fire. “My perfect place…. would be a wooded glade, perhaps with a similar waterfall. The air would be filled with the songs of the birds. The place illuminated by nothing but moonlight with a large Oak towering above the clearing…” He said as his mind wandered back to his homeland. There were many such places, and he wished he could share one with Teagan right now. The arm around her pulled her tightly to his side…<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>19-08-2006, 01:52:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The archer with out a bow closed her eyes as he spoke. On the back of her eye lids she could see a large grassy area beside a waterfall and surrounded by trees. The ancient oak stood beside the waterfall, stretching its protective arms very wide. She could hear the birds whistling their beautiful calls and she and Valendir danced in the middle of it all, his hair glowing from the reflection of the moon’s light. “I have missed finding such places. Traveling used to be about the places we would see, before we discovered that we could make a life out of our skills.” She sighed and moved her hand to find his, entwining their fingers once she did. “If you go to this place of grass and trees when the moon his high and full. Will you close your eyes and pretend I am there… and dance with me?” She looked up to see his face, but did not remove her head from his shoulder. Maybe… a slight maybe when they had finished their investigation she would ask him to travel with her, but she was still uncertain as to the trouble she had already caused him by simply trying to be his friend.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-08-2006, 20:11:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir leaned back a bit, still staring into the fire, the cackling of the flames barely covered the sound of their beating hearts. She had missed those places, and Valendir had begun taking them for granted, no longer stopping to enjoy these small life pleasures the way he had during his youth. He let her hand entangle the fingers of his, returning the affection to Teagan. He felt comfortable with her by his side, more than he had thought possible. He wondered if this was a temporary illusion they were building around reality. He hoped not…<br><br>He listened to her longing words, and thought about them, allowing a moment of silence. Finally he looked down at her, and smiled warmly. “I will dream fondly of you Teagan, but I would hope perhaps I will not need to pretend….” He said hoping he wasn’t giving away too much. This was not how the elves talked, this was human emotion that he was giving into. <br><br>He knew not what tomorrow would bring, but he wanted to cherish the moment he had with Teagan, as he would cherish the previous night’s events. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>23-08-2006, 03:01:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her heart almost stopped as he responded to her question. Despite all the pain she had been though over the past few days, even the past few years, her soul had wanted to hear something like that. She was so afraid that what she was feeling and what they were doing was nothing more than the stress of the moment. “I do not know much about where my life is going or if I want the right things for the right reasons…” She tightened her grip on his hand as if she were unsure that she should even be saying such things. “But I know I that I do not want you to be alone. If you have no one else to be with when this is over I’d like you to consider going home with me.” There, she had said what she had been afraid to for the past day. She felt better for having done it. <br><br>(sorry it is so short... not feeling well tonight)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 20:46:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was truly touched by her sentiment. That she invited him to be a part of her life meant allot to him, even though it might be difficult to show. “The past few days has been difficult…. But things will get better. You are a good person Teagan, and the gods will reward you….” He said kissing the top of her head. <br><br>Perhaps it was the heat, or perhaps not, but Valendir was getting tired. He pushed himself slightly away from the fire, rolling onto his bedroll bringing Teagan along with him into a flat on the ground position. He thought a bit about what she’d said, “Allot can happen between now and then…. But perhaps… I should like to accompany you….” He finished, pulling her towards him, until her lips were level with his. He kissed her gently…&nbsp; Pulling away, he let her head rest upon his chest if she wished. He wondered about how her ‘husband’ will take their presence together, how would he react to their relationship as it was…. He wondered if she would let him kill the man, as was his intention. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>25-08-2006, 00:43:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagen closed her eyes as Valendir kissed the top of her head. She had wanted to believe his words but she was not certain that the gods were concerned with the lives of man. She laughed as he pulled her down but lost her sound when he said he would like to accompany her. She could not look away from his eyes nor diverted the tender kiss that followed. She let her head rest on his chest and slid her hand up under his shirt so that hit rest on his bare stomach. “A perhaps is a good enough answer. I am happy that you would even consider it.” She slide a leg over his and began to rub his stomach in a soothing non sexual way. She simply wanted to touch him.<br><br>“What is on your mind now?” his heartbeat had lulled her eyes closed yet she did not want to miss any moment he was a wake. Her memory wondered back to the few hours they had had alone long ago when she had talked him into a lesson of the bow. She had felt such peace as his touch on her arms as she did now… she felt it to her very soul.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-08-2006, 18:19:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He lay still, enjoying the feel of her warm body pressed against his. He felt a chill, perhaps from the lack of a roof, or perhaps from the subject. Deep down he felt more and more like he would want to remain with Teagan after all this unpleasantness with the bandits and Donavan was completed, but he knew allot could happen in the next few days. Humans in general were prone to extreme emotional changes, and Teagan was no exception, though he felt as though she would make the right choices when the time came… He hoped he was right. <br><br>“I am sorry for my previous behaviour….” He was about to admit that it had been very human of him, but kept his tongue. He felt her leg slide over his and enjoyed what she was doing with her hand on his stomach. He had to think about her question… “I was only thinking how different things had become, from all those years ago, to yesterday and finally today. And I am also thinking of the future…” He ran his hand up through her hair, stroking it gently.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 04:06:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She felt him shiver and reached for the blankets to cover him. Then her hand found its way back under his shirt to lovely caress the skin of his stomach. His skin was like silk and she would not stop touching him until he made her stop. For a few moments the sound of his heartbeat was there conversation.<br><br>“It is understandable now. I would have reacted the same way.”&nbsp; She said softly. Again she felt a sadness for the elves. Perhaps they had their serenity, but with out passion and feeling what good was the calm? “We must let go of yesterday and the rest of the past. I want nothing of it anymore. Tell me these thoughts of the future. Perhaps here by the firelight we can see a better path.” She snuggled into him, wanting to get closer though that was impossible. Her hand continued soothing circles on this belly. His heartbeat was her peace. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 06:11:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was grateful for the blanket that now covered them both but he realized as Teagan’s hand returned to his stomach that the chill was from her touch and not the temperature. They lay there quietly; the only sound was the light rubbing of her fingers along his skin underneath his shirt. He was content, but he felt like something was missing. He wished they were in a grove, or even a richly appointed Inn in one of the lavish human cities, this is what he wished for Teagan, not sharing his rough one person bedroll in some abandoned ruins in the middle of nowhere…<br><br>Her voice brought him back from his thoughts. Though he trusted in Teagan’s sincerity, he doubted she would have reacted in a similar fashion, after all, humans and elves were like night and day. Yet he said nothing in reply to her. His hand continued to stroke her hair. “It is one thing to say you will cast out the past, but remember my dear Teagan, tomorrow we may have to face it once more….”&nbsp; He said, no more than a whisper. “It is difficult to guess at what the future will hold, but I truly believe things will get better, once we finish what we have set out to do. You will see…. We will see it together…..” he finished, a hint of uncertainty in his voice….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>27-08-2006, 18:04:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Though she would have been touched at his thoughts of wanting a better place than where they were for her to be in. Teagan however was content and happier than she had been in a very long time. Her body felt right against his. Neither her arms or her heart felt empty. For the first time since she left her parents home she felt as if she was were she was meant to be. He was correct about what they must do in the morning. She was hoping that the attackers had looted the area and left. They had enough time, but there was an ominous feeling that she chose to ignore. <br><br>“Yes together.” She moved up to kiss his cheek and then adjusted herself again so that she could reach his ear. This caused her leg to rub gently against his groin and her hand traveled further up his chest for balance. Her tongue reached out and caressed the lobe of his ear. Her breath moist and warm, as he would notice her mouth to be when she gently sucked on his ear. “Before we face tomorrow make love to me again Valendir. I want to touch you, I want you to touch me… I need you inside of me once more.” She traced the contour of his ear with her tongue, her hand found his nipples and she began to rub her thumb in circles around on of the little nubs. Her leg again moved gently against his manhood. It was her hope to light the fire in him that was burning in her, she did not want to risk that tomorrow would part them and they would never have this chance again.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-08-2006, 16:24:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir’s mind did wander for a bit, to better times that had come to past though they weren’t truly happy times, just better. He then thought to the future and the possibilities that lay there. For once in his life he had someone to be with, as oppose to someone to travel with. It left him with a warm feeling only made warmer by Teagan’s subtle movements…<br><br>He felt her warm breath and lips upon his cheek and he smiled, he felt herself adjust to his body, and her leg brushing against his manhood. Her breath on his sensitive ear made him gasp suddenly for breath as the arm he had around her pulled her tightly against him. As she spoke softly to him about touching, and making love once more he felt his manhood begin to move, as she no doubt would as her leg moved across it. <br><br>He suddenly rolled himself and positioned himself above her, his crotch pressed into hers, and he grinding himself into her slightly, even while still being clothed from the waist down. He brought his lips roughly to hers. He wanted her, and he wanted her something fierce he realized. Remembering what they’d done the previous evening and what she seemed to have enjoyed, he slid one hand up her body till he cupped one of her breasts in his hand, he squeezed it through the fabric of her clothing…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>02-09-2006, 19:06:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She had wanted him again since that morning. Even if her mind denied it, her body and soul wanted it until it was almost a need. She groaned as his body rolled on hope of hers. There was an overwhelming desire to have their cloths off; to have that barrier gone and him buried deep in side of her. Yet she fought the fire inside of her as his kiss fueled it more.&nbsp; It was rough, passionate but most importantly honest. <br><br>“Oh yes, more.” She moaned as his strong hand began to mold it with his fingers. Her own hands were searching for the end of his shirt so she could feel the skin of his back beneath her finger tips. “How is it that I need so much so quickly?” She whispered and kissed him this time. Her hips lifted into his and she almost melted from the feel of his rock hard manhood pressed against her private area. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-09-2006, 01:00:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He continued to kiss her like a mad man on a mission of passion, feverishly as his hand continued to rub her breast through the fabric of her shirt. He wanted the shirt gone, he wanted to feel her flesh, all of it beneath his. As she kissed him back he seemed to press on, the other hand moving to her hips, before sliding slowly up her body along the inside of her shirt...<br><br>He felt her press against him, and the hand under the shirt now pressed firmly into her breasts. As she spoke he listened quietly, her words urged him on, and he rose slighlty, pulling away and using both hands to remove her shirt completely... He wanted to be inside her again, he wanted to feel her moist tunnel, he wanted her to make him feel as he had the previous night...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>10-09-2006, 00:13:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir had helped her do what she could not do herself for the past few years… he got Donavan completely out of her mind. Teagan assisted him with her shirt wanting no material between their bodies. Once her upper torso was bare and begging to be touched, she pulled on his shirt and worked it up over his head. <br><br>“You are so beautiful.” She whispered as her hands slid over her chest. Her breath was caught in her chest as the firelight reflected off his body. Her fingers found his nipples and began to stimulate them. She leaned up and kissed his shoulder; her tongue swirling on his skin before her lips closed. Her hips rotated against his. She had not forgotten about that part of him either… She wanted him all.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>11-09-2006, 18:30:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Still straddling her waist, Valendir, along with Teagan’s help had bared her breasts in no time and he offered no resistance to the removal of his own. While he could his hands moved along her waist, up her sides before cupping her breasts in his hands. He gazed upon her beauty even as she spoke of his, and he felt the excitement of what was about to once again happen building within him. <br><br>He copied her finger movements on her nipples, hoping to give as good as he was receiving. When she leaned up he slide lower upon her, moving one arm behind her shoulders to help support her as she kissed him. Using the other hand to cup the side of her face, he pressed his lips once again to hers, his tongue probing inside as she had done to him. He sucked on her lips as his hands continued to caress the side of her face, her ear and the soft hair that cascaded over her shoulders…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-09-2006, 19:55:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan was not shy about letting Valendir know that she was enjoying what he was doing. Her moans came easily as his fingers teased her sensitive nipples. She wanted his mouth there desperately. However any where he touched her seemed to be where she needed to feel his touch… her back, her face, ear and even hair. It all felt a flame as they kissed; her tongue exploring him and memorizing his taste.<br><br>“You do this to me…” She whispered between kisses. Her breast were pressed into his chest and she shifted slightly causing them to rub together. “Set me on fiire. I need your mouth on me…” She kissed him again with fervor. Her hands traveled down his chest to loosen the laces of his braes and give her better access to what was hidden from her view. “I need you in me… you and only you.” Her hands found what they were looking for as her teeth nipped his jaw. Her fingers wrapped around his hard velvet shaft and began to stroke. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 16:44:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir pulled up slightly to give her breath, so she could speak and so she could have easier access to his clothing, which he was looking forward to be released from. At her request his lips quickly descended upon her breasts, taking the nipple and sucking gently. His eyes remained fixed on her beautiful face all the while, watching her reactions. He moved to the other nipple, moaning as he sucked it, moaning from the work her hand was doing on his hardened shaft. <br><br>His mind went back to the previous evening, and the pleasure she’d given him. He wished very much to return the favour, so he moved down her body, even as his erection moved out of her reach. He kissed his way down, his tongue tracing lines along her stomach. <br><br>Finally he reached his goal, as he lay flat upon the hard ground of the ruins. One hand moved up to grab one of her breasts as he lowered his lips to her flower, kissing what he assumed was a sensitive area. He still watched her face, looking for direction, wanting to see her enjoy what he had the previous night….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 20:42:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She gasped as his warm mouth found her chilled nipple. “Oh yes” She continued to stroke him as the warmth he generated spread through out her chest. The other hand worked its way into his silver silken hair that she loved so much. Her fingers wove in his hair and held him to her pleasure. <br><br>As he slid down her body her other hand went to the back of his neck. The area he was kissing raised to meet his lips as her body writhed beneath him. Teagan softly caressed his neck as the other hand slid up and down the contour of a pointed ear. When his mouth covered her nether petals she gasped and moaned. Her hips lifted seeking more. “Oh Valendir, love… yes.” She spread her legs a little more for him and wrapped a leg around his back. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-09-2006, 17:07:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For Valendir, this was another new experience. He didn't dislike the taste, and from what he could tell by her reactions, Teagan was enjoying the work he was doing. He moved his tongue up and down the length of her slit, first one side then the next. He felt her legs open up a bit more, and one wrapped around his shoulders, almost pulling him. <br><br>His hands moved to cup each of her breasts, squeezing their fullness between his fingers before moving to run his fingers over the hardened tips of her nipples. His tongue manouvered inside her, as deep as he could take before coming out and sliding all the way to the top, touching the small hard butten hiden there...<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>01-10-2006, 16:41:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was beyond her understanding of how Valendir could have made love to a woman any other way that he was doing now. He was a natural at it so giving and expressive. She could tell by the look in his eyes that he was thinking about her pleasure and desired to please her. He had such a sensual nature it was no wonder he never fit in amongst his race. <br><br>“It feels so good.” She encouraged and was unable to keep her hips from rising to his mouth. Her foot slid up and down his back caressing him as she could and her hands went to his hair. One hand buried deep into his hair, tightly; the other gently stroked ear. “My beautiful one” She whispered as he built up her passion.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-10-2006, 16:28:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Velendir continued to work his tongue inside Teagan for a bit, and the effect of the touch of that special place had not been lost. One hand lowered to spread the top part of the lips apart, and he moved his tongue along the prize that had been revealed. He then took it gently between his lips and sucked softly. <br><br>The hand continued to pinch her nipple as he hips rose to meet each flick of his tongue of movement of his lips. He heard her soft voice call to him, and his eyes returned to look upon her face even as he felt her foot moving along the skin of his back. The speed with which he moved his lips increased as he continued to put pressure on her clit...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>08-10-2006, 15:59:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Every lick, every stroke, every touch brought her closer and closer to the summit of passion. She shivered and moaned as his tongue laved her exposed nub. All of those nerve endings firing off at once make her buck her hips and push his head closer to her even though they already met. <br><br>Teagan was absolutely delirious with what he was doing to her. Time and surroundings had no meaning she just continued to fly even higher until she could take no more and shattered into tiny pieces like the stars that dotted the night sky above them. Her body felt like it was in the torrent of the river once more, the heated pleasure running through her blood stream like a flash flood. It was a long moment before she washed back up on the ground where he lay, her body quaking in little aftershocks. She could not move or speak… this was simply more than she had ever expected to feel. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-10-2006, 15:56:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was pleased to see Teagan’s reaction to what he was doing. He’d been afraid he’d be unable to bring her to the levels he’d sent him the previous night. As he continued to lick and suck, his eyes watched her even as he felt her press his head tighter into her. His lips remained tightly wrapped around her clit, and he sucked, and flicked his tongue through her orgasm, relishing her juices as they covered the insides of his mouth. <br><br>When she seemed to calm, he pulled slightly, and moved to his knees hovering above her still quivering body. His eyes scanned her body, moving from her legs, up to the point where they met, then along her body till they rested upon her face. He smiled down at her… “You are beautiful Teagan….. Beyond words…” Here he remained until he was certain she was pleased with him. Never before had he wanted something as bad as the way he wanted her approval…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>17-10-2006, 02:13:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was quite obvious that Valendir’s fears were unfounded. Teagan found him to be a wonderful lover. His inexperience in the human style was more than made up for by his own passionate nature and his desire that he please her. As the intenseness of her orgasm ebbed away she realized now that Donavan had never really cared for her needs.<br><br>She looked up at Valendir and knew her heart had always meant to be his. As her chest heaved in air her eyes filled with that emotion. He was truly the most beautiful male she had ever seen. She hoped that fate would not take him back to his cold people. If they did not want him, she did. When he complimented her, she blushed. It was all she needed to fuel the raging need for him in her heart and spread to her body. She leaned up and pulled him to her at the same time, her lips claming his a passionate kiss as she leaned back. “Join with me. I need you in me until we are lost in each other.” She whispered against his lips and kissed him again. Her hips lifted to press gently against his swollen manhood incase her words were not clear enough. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-10-2006, 20:29:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was touched by the blush that coloured her face. He remained there hovering above her, somewhat lost in thought. This was something his people struggled to deny themselves, and now he took a leap forward, regardless or uncaring about the further consequences. He felt her pull herself from the ground as her lips came upon his. His eyes closed, as he relished the feel of her soft, supple lips. The kiss held much tenderness and yet it fuelled the raging fire that burned within him.<br><br>He listened to her words and he wanted nothing more than to have him envelope him. He nodded to her, unsure what to say, or perhaps just unable to speak. He felt her body brush his erection, and could wait no longer. Slowly he lowered his weight upon her body and his shaft slid into her as far as it could. There he paused, looking down at her beautiful face for a moment, simply content to enjoy the feel of himself deep inside of her... After a lingering moment he began to trust himself, pistoning slowly at first, but quickly gaining in speed. He knew he wouldn't last long...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>26-10-2006, 23:56:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With the pressure of Valendir’s body upon hers, she felt completed. There was such joy in side her body as he entered her with one smooth, deep thrust that she had to close her eyes and simply focus on breathing. Her face was serene with a smile upon her lips and the slight moisture of tears around her closed lids. This was the man she was born to be with, she had known from the moment she saw him, but had been too deeply involved with Donavan.<br><br>Now she gave herself completely to her Elven lover. Moving in unison with him and letting the sizzling friction of their sexes take her soaring. She did not need long with the way he felt inside of her. She entwined her legs with his and slid her hands down to his finely shaped bottom. With every thrust she pulled him into her, her mind spun, spiraled and wound even tighter. Her moans was soft music to let him know he was doing everything right<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-11-2006, 18:29:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir continued to move in and out of Teagan, and often he would push himself up so he could see her face, the smile that crossed her lips and the damp lines of the tears from her eyes. He deduced from her expression they were more of joy, or at least he hoped they were. He himself was in a place he’d never been until the previous night, and now he prayed that he would visit it more often in the future. <br><br>He felt her legs move along his and he hands pulled him deeper inside of her. As he neared his peak he pressed his lips to hers roughly and his speed increased until he found himself releasing. Throughout the loud groan that came along with him he continued to kiss Teagan roughly, inhaling her breath as his seed continued to spill….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>15-11-2006, 04:47:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan returned his rough kiss eagerly and as Valendir’s speed increased she matched him thrust for thrust. Not only was she working for his release but her own as well. They both found their zenith at the same time;, her warm wet sheath pulsing around his hardened sword milking it of all the seed he had to offer. Her hands moved up his back to get tangled in his mass of silky hair and her legs stayed entwined with his. She did not want to let him go and wasn’t ready to be separated from him as their bodies cooled down. <br><br>“Thank you love” She whispered against his lips when they finally parted. Her world had never felt as right as it did not. It could be the after-sex-glow giving her a false feeling but she didn’t think so. She could only hope that they would get to the ruins of her home and find nothing. Then they could travel to her mother’s home, then from there where ever they wished together. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-11-2006, 16:06:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was exhausted when he was done, but his lips lingered upon Teagan’s for a moment longer, he relished the taste of her, all of her. His softening manhood remained inside of her even as he rolled to the side a bit. When she spoke he smiled a content smile, the words having much meaning to him. His head moved to lie upon her shoulder and he gazed into the fire. <br><br>He reached for and pulled the heavy blanket that had been cast aside. His lightly kissed her shoulder before setting his head down once more, his hand still moving across her soft skin for a few moments before they found their resting spot. His mind was quickly hypnotised by the cackling fire, and reds, yellows and oranges therein. His eyes closed and sleep took him….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>19-11-2006, 01:03:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir was a quiet one that was certain. Teagan suspected that the elf has spoken more to her in the past two days than he had in the past year.&nbsp; So she was not worried when he said nothing, but curled up on her and drifted to sleep watching the fire.&nbsp; She enjoyed holding him and loved the pressure of his head on her shoulder. As she watched the fire and drifted to sleep herself she wondered if this was another wonderful thing that the elves did not do. <br><br>In the morning she was reluctant to wake. She knew she had promised to cut his hair, though she did not want to. So she did not wake him. Instead she rubbed his pale silken tresses in her fingers enjoying the luxury while she still could. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-11-2006, 16:54:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The feel of her hands in his hair made him move, but just slightly. His eyes opened slowly and he took in his surroundings and situation. The previous evening’s events came back to him and he smiled. At first he focused on the embers from what was left of the fire, then he noticed the sun was already on the rise. He’d somehow slept longer than he usually did. He moved a bit more to the side, the blanket sliding down slightly, revealing their flesh, parts of which were illuminated by the few rays of sunlight that made it through what was left of the ruined walls that surrounded them… “Good morning” he said lifting his head so his chin laid upon her chest. <br><br>After a moment he smiled at her, “we should prepare to move soon…” he said following a sigh. He took a moment to nuzzle her neck, kissing the skin lightly. After a moment he pushed himself to his knees cringing slightly at the pain in his leg. He yawned before bringing his hand up to wipe at the cobwebs in his eyes, he blinked vigorously a few times. He felt there were things he should say, as he looked down upon her soft features. But he wasn’t human, speaking of feelings and emotions were not something he was easily capable of doing… “Teagan… I’m….” he paused, standing slowly, the blanket sliding down to cover her body, yet he made no attempt to hide his own nakedness…..<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>23-11-2006, 13:39:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Morning” She replied a little sadly, but hoping it came out sleepish. The day couldn’t be held back forever. What would be would come to pass... all she could do was live the moments the best she could. It would either work between them or not. Despite her sadness, she did smile. How could she not get lost in the pale silver of his beautiful eyes?<br><br>For a moment she wondered if her thought of being in this world to love him was a silly one. She had no right to complicate his life because she was lonely. “I know.” She replied as he nuzzled her neck. If she did not feel some affection for her he would not have done that. Perhaps it would not be enough to keep them traveling in the same direction, but it was enough for her heart right now. He stood and she could not help but to look at him with admiration for his exotic beauty. If other elves looked like him, she could not understand how they were not passionate in their love making. There were troubled thoughts flickering behind his pale orbs and she knew he felt like he owed her something... pretty flowery words or the like. She would have loved to hear them and she didn’t know why he couldn’t speak them... perhaps he was just unaccustomed to speaking of how he felt... perhaps he didn’t feel much for her at all... but she did not want him feel uncomfortable.<br><br>Teagan rose to her knees; the blankets clinging to her breasts for a second before sliding off to reveal her full orbs with large round dusky disks. She moved her hands to his injured leg and lightly began to rub up and down. If she warmed it up before they moved, perhaps he would not have such pain. To ignore his endowment which was level with her face she watched her hands move. Still his scent was enough to make her nipples tighten. Maybe he would contribute that to the chill of the air... she hoped.. “You don’t need to give me words Valendir. I can read your eyes well enough. And you need not feel obligated to me for the past too nights. Whatever you decide to do with your life, I will survive in mine.” At least she hoped she could. Being childless and loveless was never how she imagined living her life, but she could not give a man a child so there really was no reason to hope a man would love her, was there?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-11-2006, 16:45:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir half listened to what she said, his mind otherwise occupied. He wondered what was appropriate to say in human circles after a night as wonderful as they’d just spent. Instead he remained silent for the time being. He felt her move, and saw her out of the corner of his eye and he turned slightly to face her directly. He looked down at her, as she sat on her knees in front of him. He watched the blanket fall, revealing her beautiful body to him in the light of day. Her hands felt silken as they touched his leg and began rubbing, and kneading the flesh. The fact that her face was eye level with his manhood wasn’t lost on him, he felt himself becoming aroused once again and the obvious movement would be very noticeable to Teagan… <br><br>He listened to her speak, and he just shook his head slightly. He reached down and grasped her shoulders and he pulled her up to her feet, his body very close to hers. “My leg is fine Teagan… It feels much better…” he began, not sure how to continue. “Teagan… You’ve given me so much…. You gave yourself to me… That is no small thing…” he said, his eyes warm and inviting. “You have made me see that all is not lost... I wish…. I wish to explore more of humanity… With you….” There it was… he’d said it as clearly as he could… <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>30-11-2006, 03:33:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				That she was eye level with Valendir’s genitals was not lost on her either. She had a desire to pull his hardening pole into her mouth as it began to stir, but he pulled her up so she stood. It was easy to see in his eyes that he was struggling with words, but she knew he was not dismissing what they had done. His silver eyes were so expressive. She was truthful when she told him he didn’t have to say anything to her. Still she listened, because words were difficult for him to say, because she wanted to hear them. <br><br>Once he had spoken, she lifted her hands to his face and guided his lips to hers. She kissed him gently, her lips slowly massaging his at first. Then her tongue slipped out to tease its way into his mouth. With out thinking she took a step forward pressing her soft, yet muscular body against his and deepening the kiss. She was not strong enough to hope for the future at the moment, but this was a promising start and nothing else mattered, not even her home or the ruined village that was once home of people she called friends.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-12-2006, 19:12:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her reaction to his words was anticipated, though he was unsure why. Hs lips parted and his eyes closed as he felt her fingers touch his skin. His own hands moved to wrap around Teagan’s naked body. He felt her tongue moved into his mouth, and he sent his to circle hers adoringly. His tongue moved across her lips and teeth, taking the feel and taste of her. <br><br>He felt her body press against his, very close as they both gave into the kiss. One hand moved lower to cup her buttocks and to squeeze the soft flesh. His hardening member could easily be felt moving upwards upon her skin, leaving no doubt he was very much aroused. He head reminded him of the need to stop, and to break camp, but he could not. His heart told him to stay a bit longer, it told him to make love to this human woman who seemed to be closer to him than anyone had ever been before…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>02-12-2006, 19:54:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan moaned into the kiss as his strong hands kneaded her firm ass and lifted her slightly into his hard body. Her arms wrapped around his neck and her fingers slid into his hair, caressing his ears before pulling them through the silken mass. "Gods of above and below I need you again." She whispered against Valendir's mouth. His cock against her abdomen was hot and burning her from the inside out. She couldn't ignore it, what she wanted to do with it or what she wanted it to do to her.<br><br>Slowly she bent her knees, sliding down his body and out of his grasp. There she knelt before him, taking his thick rod in her hand and giving it a loving stroke. First she licked her lips, then she licked his fleshy tip. He smelled most wonderously of musk and she thought there was still a bit of taste of her from their joining the night before. She moaned as if he were the most delicous thing when she sucked him into her mouth, her other hand cupped and kneaded his ball sac. She would never tire of doing this to him... never. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-12-2006, 19:24:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir could not deny the effect Teagan was having on his body, but it was the effect she was having on his heart that surprised him the most. His hands continued to knead the flesh of her rear, squeezing and pulling as their tongues battled against one another. He felt his member rub against her skin and the feeling was one of sheer pleasure. <br><br>He was momentarily surprised when suddenly Teagan moved lower but he offered no resistance. He looked down upon her as she moved to her knees before him. He moaned slightly when her hand moved around his erection and before long the tip disappeared into her warm, waiting mouth. His hands moved to her hair, lightly grabbing a fistful in each hand as his head fell back and his eyes closed. He gave in to the emotions and sensations he for so long tried to suppress. His legs spread a bit more, giving her better access down below and before long he began holding her head and thrusting himself into her mouth…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>06-12-2006, 03:32:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The human female took her Elven partner into her mouth as if he were the very sustenance she needed to survive. She loved his taste, his texture, his thickness and length. Even the heaviness of his balls in her hands. Above all she loved the honesty in which he responded to her. Teagan let him thrust into her mouth as far as her oral cavity would allow. For the rest of him she wrapped her long fingers around his shaft and made them as tight as her hot warm mouth. Her tongue massaged the underside of his manhood while her hand did the same to his dangling sack. <br><br>She wanted to spend all day making love to him, but knew as well as he that the should be breaking camp and moving on. It was her hope that their unexpected delays would have given the bandits time to get away. The money that she had sent her mother should be enough to keep her family, including her and Valendir, modestly comfortable for the rest of their lives. They could travel or rest, live their life to their whims. She did not need more. But that was getting a head of herself and out of the moment. Her first want was to pleasure him so she continued to suck and stroke him for as long as he desired. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>12-12-2006, 18:15:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir moaned and closed his eyes as he felt himself enter her eager mouth. This was something he enjoyed, something unheard of in elven circles. He continued to gently trust himself in and out, his hands moving through her soft hair. He could feel her tongue moving along the underside, and he hand massaging his balls, all of it creating a sensation 8unlike anything he could have imagined possible. <br><br>His mind was only on Teagan, and no longer on their task or mission. Everything else could wait… But he realized he was being selfish. He loved the feel of her mouth around his shaft, and he wanted nothing more than to reach his peak inside her mouth, but he wanted her to enjoy the sensations as well, so he reached down and gently pulled her mouth away, though reluctantly. He knelt besides her, and began to push her upon her back, on the bedroll that still remained there. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>13-12-2006, 05:10:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan gave little thought to herself as she pleasured him, or at least little of herself in the area of her own physical need, which was great. The fact that he wanted to be with her, that he responded so passionately to her touch was like sustenance to her soul.&nbsp; She needed to show him how much that meant to her; that he filled a gaping hole in her soul… and words were no good right now. She didn’t want to appear too needy. So she put her heart into pleasuring him. She loved the feel of his cock in her mouth.<br><br>There was a little confusion and surprise in her large brown eyes when he moved her back from his manhood. Valendir pushed her back on to the bedroll and she laid on her back willingly with her legs spread to give him full view of her body from her full breasts to her lightly haired sex. All of her was there for his taking. “What part of humanity can I help you explore?” She asked with an easy smile, her eyes focused on his silver eyes with occasional glances down to his throbbing manhood. She could definitely spend the rest of her life exploring humanity with this elf. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-12-2006, 16:54:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Strands of saliva slid off his shaft as he looked down at her beautiful body. He on his knees above her, her with her legs spread for him. Her body was perfection, a beautiful combination of delicate curves with the muscles of a warrior. It was very unlike the body of an elven maiden. He surprised even himself when he smiled at her comment. “There are certain… aspects of humanity that I wish to experience again… and again….” He said with an odd grin…<br><br>His hand moved himself into position while the other grabbed onto one of her ankles and held it up. His eyes never left hers as he slowly slid inside of her. He proceeded to slowly trust himself in and out repeatedly until he decided he needed to fell her lips upon his. He let go of her ankle and slid completely atop her, kissing her softly as his hips continued to drive home…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>14-12-2006, 01:22:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was a natural at his human explorations and he could tell by her sweet moan as he entered her that she could not mind him experiencing the act of their union over and over and over again. “There are certain aspects of humanity that require much practice to perfect.” She half moaned half whispered, her voice hitching as he pushed deep. There was a smile upon her lips and a glow in her face that was not the reflection of day or firelight. Her lips lifted into his to aid in each thrust, her mind was totally focused on his movement inside of her, of his weight on top of her.<br><br>When Valendir let go of her ankle she wrapped that leg around his thigh and used it as an anchor. Her hands delved into his silken hair and her lips sought his as they made love much slower than they had the previous two times. She pressed her breast against him, her hardened nipples like stones against his chest. Teagan could not get enough of him and now she did not have to worry about it, they would have many more times to come. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>15-12-2006, 14:12:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The first few trusts had been with purpose, but now, as his lips caressed hers he moved more slowly with each determined stroke. He felt her leg wrap around his waist tightly, almost pulling him deeper inside of her. He loved the feel of her hands in his long hair, and the thoughts of cutting it was far from his mind, though not forgotten. <br><br>He could feel her breasts rubbing hard against the skin of his chest, and he loved it, he loved feeling and seeing how aroused she was. He brought his knees up slightly so he was half kneeling and half laying down atop her. But he lifted his chest suddenly and pulled his lips from hers. With his hands he lifted her rear, and pulled her tightly. He looked down at her body, one hand sliding across her flat stomach to softly grasp her breast… His hips never ceased their movements, in fact, his trusts began to slightly increase in tempo… <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>16-12-2006, 03:17:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It did not seem she would have to teach him much… She hated to let her fingers fall from his hair or his lips leave hers, even her breasts ached in protest to the loss of his heat. But she loved the depth that this new position allowed him to go. “Oh” she moaned. Her hands dropped to his legs and gripped tightly. “I like the way you explore.” She managed to say between her ragged breaths.&nbsp; The breast that he was not caressing giggled from the moment of his thrusts. <br><br>The warrior woman did not let him do all the work, she wrapped her lets around his thighs and used him as an anchor to meet him thrust for thrust even when he sped up. She would never bore of this, never tire of looking at his beauty… the way his body shimmered with light perspiration and his high cheekbones framed in cascade of silver. His muscles seemed to dance effortlessly under his skin though she could feel the building fire in her feminine core that was a direct result of his effort. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-12-2006, 15:58:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir continued to trust with everything he had, his breathing becoming laboured. He used his hands to pull her tightly to him moving as deeply as their bodies would allow. He could only mutter in reply to her comments, “When I *unhg* open myself… Much comes naturally” he said. He was as surprised as she must be. An Elf did not simply open himself up to his emotions, but Teagan had that effect on him. <br><br>He felt her legs wrap around his thighs, and she seemed to pull him into her. He felt himself warm, and knew he was nearing his peak. He continued to push into her as hard as he could, grunting with each trust. He was hoping she would reach hers when he did his, but being somewhat inexperienced at this he could not stop himself, he couldn’t even slow. His body took over his mind and in this position he felt completely enveloped by her. <br><br>The moment he found release, He cried out loudly, closing his eyes. His body shook and convulsed as he trust into her a few more times, his head bowing forward his silvery hair covering her breasts…For the next few moments he continued to tremble lightly…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>20-12-2006, 04:23:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir’s openness did not surprise Teagan, though she enjoyed it immensely. She had seen his need and ability to feel deeply so long ago, but had been already with another. As he moved in her she moaned, encouraging him on. Her mind and hear felt as if she were soaring and her body was wonderful tense and on the verge of exploding into a million little pieces of ecstasy.&nbsp; <br><br>The female archer matched his pace and strength, grinding him against her cervix at the end of each thrust. His worries were needless and they climaxed together. The core of her being flexing, massaging and milking his seed from his manhood, greedy for every drop. Her pleasure was expressed in mews of passion. Her fingers delved into his hair, her body shuttering from the last throws of orgasm and the silken caress of his tresses. After a few minutes of peace she softly began to caress his cheek. She did not want to move, did not want him to move. Her heart would forever be in this moment.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-12-2006, 17:18:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan’s touch brought Valendir back to reality. He wished they were somewhere else… Anywhere else. Somewhere they could stay by themselves, away from the troubles of the lands of man and elf alike. But such was not the case. <br><br>He rolled to his side as he slide out of Teagan’s folds but he did not removed himself from her embrace, wanting to remain in its warmth for a few more minutes… His own hands moved to caress her hair and face, and enjoyed the glow of her skin. <br><br>“We should prepare to move Teagan... We have many miles to cover yet…” he said unmoving….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 02:29:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When her elven lover rolled off of her, she snuggled closer to Valendir. She was not ready to give him up. "I know, but I do not want to leave your arms. It is so nice here." She whispered as she continued to caress his cheek. Nothing existed at this moment beyond him. <br><br>But after a few moments she leaned in for a slow kiss, letting her tongue wrap around his and sucking on it gently. There was no rush in this kiss and she poured her heart into it. After all who knew what the day would bring. Would they find nothing or walk into danger? She no longer wanted to go, but that was not the type of person she wanted to be. Reluctantly she pulled herself away from him, stood up and began to dress. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 15:21:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His breathing finally returning to normal he smiled down at Teagan, as she lay in his arms. He kissed her forehead, his lips then trailing down the side of her face to her cheek... He remained silent for the moment, listening to her words and though he felt the same, he made no mention of it. <br><br>He let her tongue dance around his own, and he suckled hers into his mouth when the chance came. He sighed deeply as he watched her naked form stand up. The sun reflected on her beautiful tanned skin and he simply stared as she began to dress... After a few minutes he stood and reached for his own clothing. <br><br>Once his breeches and boots were on he reahced for the soft shirt and turned to face Teagan as he brought the shirt over his head. "How far are we from your home...?" he asked as he straightened the shirt and reached for his leather tunic...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 16:35:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She could not keep herself from glancing at him while she dressed; he was so beautiful. Nor could she help but to remember loosing the bow her father gave her as she finished strapping on her armor. With a sigh she began to pack the camp. <br><br>"I think an hour and a half hard march. No more than two. Two in a half moderate." Despite what he said about his leg she was not certain how much of it healed. Hers was a very dull ache... he was the more important one. As good as Teagan was with sword and bow, she held no illusions... Valendir was better.<br><br>"I would prefer a moderate march so we are not too tired to handle what ever situation might be once we get there."&nbsp; She suggested causally as she began to pack the bed roll. That wasn't something she would have said a few years ago... or something she would have done if she were by herself. But it seemed like a good reasoning to save them both some pride.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 19:39:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir listened as he fastened the buckles on his leather tunic. “Agreed” he replied quickly about the moderate pace. It was still early and that would place them on site before midday. He began fastening his packs and weapons, then he helped break the camp, making sure to hide and trace of their passing, at least as much as they could…<br><br>He knew the rest of this day would be difficult. They both had bruises on their legs, and many questions of the future remained unanswered. His initial desire to protect his homeland by gathering information was still of paramount importance, but now there were other reasons. He still hoped to meet up with Teagan’s husband as the desire for vengeance was just too strong to ignore… <br><br>He drew the sharp curved elven dagger from its sheet in his right boot and he handed it to Teagan. He turned slowly and gathered his hair in one hand, holding it tightly at the base of his neck, the other hand gestured where he wanted it cut... "Please Teagan...." was all he said.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 22:47:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was satisfying that he agreed with her. Prehaps they could depend upon each other now rather than be two seperate people traveling in the same direction. They could work together like they had done a few years earlier... maybe even better. <br><br>The camp was completely broken down when Valendir reminded her about cutting his hair. It was like silver silk all the way to the small of his back and she could not keep her heart from sinking at the thought of it being gone. But if it was what he wished, she would care for him enough to make it so. She took the very sharp knife from his hand. Elven metal was so incredable, it held sharper edges far longer than human made steel. After gathering his hair she tied a thong around it just below where he wanted it cut, then wrapped her hand around his tresses. With one movement she cut his hair cleanly and severed him from his people in a way she did not understand. Teagan handed him back the blace, handle first and tried not to show her sadness over the situation. "So what do you want to do with it?" She asked as she moved her fingers through what remained of his hair; he was still beautiful. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>29-12-2006, 14:13:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir stood still as Teagan manoeuvred behind him. It was with a heavy heart that he let her cut the locks that had for so long been a point of pride for him, and his people in general. But that life was behind him now, and he needed to concentrate on the now, and the future… His new future, the one he would share with this human woman. He felt her hands work his hair until he finally felt the tug that indicated it was over…<br><br>He turned slowly and observed Teagan as she moved her fingers through what was left of his hair. He took the blade back and put it away. He could easily detect the sadness within her, human emotion even in its calm, hidden state was very obvious to the trained elven eye. “It doesn’t matter anymore Teagan…” He said reaching and laying his hand upon her shoulder before it moved to stroke her cheek… “Keep it… Or cast it aside…. We have to future to look forward to…. Why linger on the past….” He finished, finally pulling away and picking up his bow. <br><br>In a gesture very un-elf like he came to her side and took her hand in his, before he led her out of the ancient ruins that had made their camp for the night. He led her towards the lightly wooded tree line that led towards her home, not letting go of her…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>01-01-2007, 22:39:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She wondered if she had somehow grown transparent during her retirement or was it that Valendir just cared more? Because Donavan rarely offered her comfort or had acknowledge she was upset. Then again she always felt she had to prove that she was as tough as the men… would she have welcomed it? One thing was certain; she welcomed this elf’s touch. She leaned into his hand when he caressed his cheek, smiling at his mention of the future. It was not possible to part with the tail of his hair she now held. It looked like spun silver. Perhaps she could find something to do with it later or throw it away when she was stronger… when the past did not haunt her so, but for now she put it in her pack. <br><br>To say Teagan was surprised that he took her hand would be an understatement, but then again had he not been going against his nature the past couple of days? She liked the feeling of his strong hand in hers. In this simplest form they were still joined as one… one. The thought made her smile and glow gently as if she were her own sun.&nbsp; Indeed she felt more energetic than she had in a while. So it was with a silent smile on her face and lightness to her step that she walked through the forest with Valendir. Her heart wanted to wonder about the future he spoke of, but her mind forced her to focus on her surroundings, looking for things out of place and listening for unusual sounds. All was surprisingly quiet. When she reached the edge of her claimed land she stopped and held his hand fast.<br><br>“This is the boarder to my property.&nbsp; We’ve maybe a mile to go before we get to my house. I think I should walk somewhat in the open. If anyone is watching let them see me scouting while you follow hidden.” It was a tactic she had used before, though she had always been the cover, not the bait. Though it could all be for nothing; the attackers could be gone. Her brown eyes searched his, trying to learn how to read him as well as it seemed he read her.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>02-01-2007, 15:31:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Valendir kept the pace moderate, the weather had cleared and the going was good. The nearer they reached the ‘civilized’ lands of the humans the thinner the woods became, and soon they would walk down the sides of woodland trails. One thing that always amazed Valendir about the human kingdoms was the quietness. The birds didn’t sing as much and the animals were rarely seen. He was looking forward to this task being complete, so he and Teagan could really discuss their future… Was he fooling himself in thinking he could remain with her…?<br><br>Suddenly she stood fast and he felt the tug on his hand. He stopped and looked back, ears in a state of cautiousness, listening to the wind for any sign of danger he may have missed… The look he gave Teagan was questioning and wore a hint of confusion. When she spoke a look of concern crossed his brow, but he quickly looked towards the direction of her homestead, then he simply nodded. He knew the tactic well, and she was the logical choice for the bait. His eyes returned to hers… He let go of her hand and readied his bow… “Be careful… I will not be far….” He said, leaning in and kissing her cheek lightly…<br><br>After a brief moment he slipped into the woods and disappeared from view…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Once Upon an Adventure (Firegoddess &amp; Archangel)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>GothicFires</strong> on <strong>03-01-2007, 03:56:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Teagan brought her hand to her cheek to keep the warm kiss from leaving her skin as she watched her new love slip into the woods, disappearing before she knew she would have been able to. He had always amazed her with his skill. She just realized now how much Donavan must have hated him for it. With a sigh she turned and headed down the path she knew well. She stuck to what cover she could with out letting it hide her completely. Her alertness for danger was as high as if she was traveling alone. Though she did not doubt that Valendir would have her back and be there if she needed him, anything could happen to him. That thought made her heart pound. She tried to tell herself that it was too soon to put an emotional attachment on him, but her soul felt as if he was the place she should be.<br><br>Thinking about places she should be… she could smell the odor of burnt wood. There had been no one watching the forest thus far, but she could hear voices, but she could not make out what they were saying. Now she moved to the cover of the bushes and trees, slowing her progress and only moving when she was sure she would not be seen or heard. There were no words to express how much she wanted her bow. She didn’t want to draw her sword yet because it would tire her arms too quickly. <br><br>A little closer she crept. She could see glimpses of her burned out home. The wood framed roof was completely gone, some of the stone walls had cracked and fallen from the heat. She could hear the men clearly now… complaining.<br><br>“I can’t believe Donavan made us stay behind and wait on her. It’s been over two days…”<br><br>“She probably fell in the river and drown… Still I would rather be here than with them.”<br><br>“You coward. They are going where no humans have been before…”<br><br>“Going where?” Teagan asked as she walked out of the forest as if she only been on a stroll.&nbsp; Both men were over twice her size and they stared at her as if they had been struck dumb.&nbsp; It was apparent that they didn’t expect her to come back.&nbsp; One of them she recognized as a man who had joined their army right before she left the other she didn’t know at all.<br><br>“Teagan! Your husband will be glad to know your safe!” spoke the man she recognized. Being the first to recover, he spoke to her as if he were speaking to a friend. He began to walk towards her as she was walking towards them.<br><br>“Yeah. g.g.good to see you safe.” Stuttered the other as he took a circling path, thinking she wouldn’t notice. <br><br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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