Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: SouthernBelle on 08-02-2006, 21:31:32</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>08-02-2006, 21:31:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://www.filmweb.no/bilder/multimedia/archive/00091/Catherine_Zeta-Jones_91899c.jpg)<br><br>As night fell, so did the torrential rain that threatened to drown any traveler that dared to brave the elements.&nbsp; Dusty roads had turned into mud, and a chill crept into the snug, run-down tavern that was only partially shielded by a stand of thick trees.&nbsp; The shutters creaked and groaned as rain and wind lashed at them, threatening to tear them from their hinges; the eyes of the patrons continued to move to the doors and windows, concerned that their temporary haven might not stand up to the storm that growled outside.&nbsp; The proprietor and his wife, a jovial couple who seemed not at all troubled by the storm, moved among the tables, serving food and cheap ale, offering a comforting or cheery word here and there.<br><br>The occupant of one table kept the hood of a cloak up, placing face in shadow, as if they might already be feeling the chill of the winter rains.&nbsp; A bowl of thick heartening stew sat upon the tabletop, steam rising into the hidden visage.&nbsp; On occasion, a hand would grab at the spoon that lay beside, and the stew would be tested for safety of consumption.&nbsp; That hand was too slender and delicate to be a man's, too smooth and unblemished to belong to a commoner, but with the weather acting as it was, no one had even cast her a sideways glance.<br><br>Every sound, every whisper, every new patron had Shiane holding her breath, fearful that someone would see into the darkness that shielded her face and know who she was.&nbsp; The past few days had been ones of terrifying reality.&nbsp; It was only by chance that she'd been away at a party when her home was entered, everyone in her family (and those who defended) slaughtered mercilessly at the hands of hired thugs, so the rumor was.&nbsp; Word had been sent to her from a dying maid who'd been able to find someone to trust; and Shiane had fled, taking what little she could from those who were willing to help, if not protect.<br><br>Three days' hard riding had brought her to this place, and the owners had not bothered to question the weary young woman who'd dragged herself from her mount's saddle, nearly collapsing at the door.&nbsp; They simply thought that she had been trying to outride the winter rains.&nbsp; She let them think that.&nbsp; Now, here she was, but a later, bolstering her strength for yet another hard ride.&nbsp; But where would she go?&nbsp; Who would offer her sanctuary?&nbsp; Whom could she trust?<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>08-02-2006, 21:41:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor O'Fearghail, a Knight-At-Arms, had been fortuneate in his masters misfortune. During the battle that had ensued when the home was attacked, a fire had started which soon burnt everything to the ground. Connor had been fighting in a hallway when the roof collapsed, blocking his exit after he had dispatched his foe with ease. He was glad that Shiane had not been home at the time, for he later found out that none had survived. Trapped by the fire, he had moved where he could and managed to break down the door of the cellar, moving into the coolness of the underground and its relative safety. He planned to wait out the fire, but after an hour or two he realised that the timbers had blocked his escape route, and would yet burn for hours more. And smoke was starting to fill the cellar.<br><br>As he contemplated his fate, he had leaned against a wine rach and found it to be loose. Upon closer examination, he noticed that most of the wines on this particular rack were well beyond drinking and mostly all stuck in place. All save one. When he pulled on the loose bottle, the rack swung open, revealing a passage secret to even him. Grabbing a burning firebrand, he moved down into the passage which was made of stone. A half hour later it turned to mud, as though moving through a hillside and soon he could feel cool air upon his face. He hastened towards a faint light in the distance, and cut his way through a thorn bush that had covered the entrance. By the time he had gained the outside, it was mid-day and he was a good mile from the burning remains.<br><br>He hurried back, and learned from a few townsfolk that had survived, and discovered that a lady fitting the description of Shiane had been by and ridden off. He asked them which direction, and upon acquiring a roaming horse, he hastened off to find her. Though she did not know it, he had fallen in love with her a year ago, when he had first entered her fathers service.<br><br>As it was now, he was forced to move off the road into a thicket of trees, erecting a tarp to keep both himself and his tired horse shelter from the onslaught of rain, and prayed that he would be able to follow her once the rain lifted. She had ridden harder and faster then he had expected, and still had not caught up to her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>08-02-2006, 23:54:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Not even Connor's face touched her mind as she sat, hidden and trembling with that coldness that fear can create.&nbsp; She couldn't believe it... all of them, dead.&nbsp; Her father, her mother, her baby sister not even five years old.&nbsp; Who would have done such a terrible thing?&nbsp; Every man with a title had enemies, but this was so much more than a simple rivalry; Shiane knew that it had become something deadly serious, enough so that her father's enemies wanted his bloodline eradicated from the land.<br><br>The plump proprietess roused her from her morbid thoughts, and she forced the lump out of her throat, forced the tears back.&nbsp; Now was not the time to mourn... now was the time to act.&nbsp; Her life was in danger and pausing to cry could cost her everything.&nbsp; The stew was finally cool enough to eat, so she shoveled it down without tasting, washing it down with cool water.&nbsp; The rain was put from her mind, and she moved up the stairs and into the room she'd rented, locking the door securely behind.&nbsp; No one would come through this, not this night.<br><br>Long after she'd drifted into troubled sleep, several more patrons slogged their way into the warmth of the small inn, leaving mud upon the floor and trails of water as they huddled around the fire, calling for ale and warming themselves.&nbsp; The other patrons began to remove themselves from the common room, and for some reason, the owners felt uneasy with the presence of these new, boisterous and demanding men.&nbsp; Questions were asked at random, but it was quickly apparent that these men were looking for someone in particular, and that someone happened to be a young girl.&nbsp; No one cooperated, and it wasn't long before the newest group was the only one left in the common room.&nbsp; They paid for the privilege of sleeping upon the hard floor for the night, and everyone seemed to finally drift into peace that was only occasionally disturbed by the grumblings of the storm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>09-02-2006, 00:06:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor sat huddled up against a tree, wrapped in his sleeping blanket, trying to ignore the dampness that seemed to cover everything. He had tried to find the driest spot before he had set up his makeshift camp, and his waterproof cape hung from a branch under the canopy in an attempt to dry it. He could not move on in weather like this, and didnt have the tools with him to make a fire, such was his haste to find his Mistress. His horse whinnied in dismay at the weater, munching on a few tusts of grass that peaked out through the mud and leaves nearby. It was going to be a long, cold night and his sword lay nearby in fear of bandits, though he doubted anyone would travel in weather like this.<br><br>He found his thoughts traveling to Shiane, an image of her face constantly floating before him. He knew she was still alive. The men who had attacked had killed everyone they had encountered - everyone. He shook his head at the thought of watching Shianes five year sister be split in half from the blade of an axe. He pulled his blanket closer around his neck, pulling his legs up against his chest, trying to keep every ounce of warmth near his body. <br><br>His eye lids began to lower as he fought of sleep, the sound of rain in his ears. But the fighting and the long trek trying to catch up to Shiane had taken its toll, and soon his head rolled to the side, Connor finally surrendering to the whispers of sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>09-02-2006, 00:38:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The following day dawned surprisingly clear, despite the soggy nature of the world outside.&nbsp; Shiane was up with the sun, her things packed quickly together and ready for a hasty departure.&nbsp; She had to ride for the border of the realm where she hoped to seek sanctuary with those who would protect a young woman from slaughter.&nbsp; A hasty, cold bath was taken, and worn clothing was pulled on.&nbsp; Her long dark hair was pulled back into a tight knot that could be hidden easily, and her cloak was tugged on.&nbsp; The only weapon she had was a slender dagger, given to her by Connor himself.&nbsp; It had been a belief of her father's that she knew how to defend herself should she need to.<br><br>With her pack slung over one shoulder, Shiane headed down the stairs.&nbsp; Upon reaching the common room, she saw that several men were milling about, apparently awaiting their breakfast.&nbsp; The goodwife emerged from the kitchen, carrying a tray laden with food and water.&nbsp; Once she spied Shiane, she waved her over with a smile.<br><br>"Do sit and eat, girl, if'n ye're goin' already.&nbsp; The time to travel will shortly be gone for this reprieve willna last long!"&nbsp; Cursing silently for the attention brought to herself, Shiane turned her face from the men who glanced up in her direction, noting face and figure.&nbsp; They all fell quiet a moment, watching as she hurried over to take some of the offered food before heading for the door.&nbsp; As her boots tapped toward her exit, a large shadow slid to block her path.<br><br>"And where might a pretty thing like you be off to so quickly... and all alone?"&nbsp; She froze in her tracks at the deceptively smooth tone of the man's voice.&nbsp; There was an underlying hint of danger, and she only shook her head, refusing to look up at him.<br><br>"I'm off to see to m'horse, milord... 'tis time I was off.&nbsp; M'folks'll be expectin' me this eve."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>09-02-2006, 00:48:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor awoke as the first shards of light penetrated the trees, warming his face. His clothes were still damp from the previous nights rain, but he was glad to see that it had stopped raining. He started, suddenly realising again his task at hand. He quickly resaddled his horse and packed up his few belongings. He had also neglected food, and would have to go this morning without breaking fast. But he had more important things on his mind that satisfy the low rumbling of his belly. The roads were still a quagmire of mud and pools of water, but as of yet untravlled so were still useable. He made good timing, and by the time the sun had been in the sky for an hour, he arrived at a village. If Shiane had passed through, she would most likely have stopped at the nearby inn. He would also perhaps get a quick warm meal before continuing on his journey.<br><br>As he dismounted, he tied his horse to a nearby pool and entered. The black cloak he wore covered his armor, and the red tunic that was part of his Lords colors, signifying him as one of his men. He stopped short as he entered. Shiane was being confronted by a man who had his back to him. "Is there a problem here, darling?" He said to her, taking on the pretense of being her husband.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>09-02-2006, 18:48:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shiane was debating whether she could get out if she bolted; the option to stomp on the large man's foot did cross her mind, but before she could act, something caught her attention.&nbsp; The voice and the words spoken from behind the one who blocked her drew a reaction from the young woman that could not be disguised.&nbsp; Her dark eyes widened as she lifted her head to spy Connor standing there.&nbsp; She'd been told that her father's entire household had been destroyed, so what she saw now seemed more like a ghost than a rescue.&nbsp; Was he real?&nbsp; Was he here to help, or did he serve the one who betrayed her father?<br><br>The man between them did not miss the expression on her face... neither did his comrades, and they all looked from Shiane to Connor and back again.&nbsp; They couldn't possibly mistake the colors that the newcomer wore, and recognition dawned as they studied the female before them.&nbsp; Just as she moved to take action, so did they, a great rising up as she shoved at the larger man, pushing him back into Connor and wiggling past them both and out into the yard.<br><br>Curses and yells followed her as she ran for all she was worth to the stable where her horse waited.&nbsp; She couldn't bother with tacking him up, so she grabbed the bridle, tugged it on, opened the stall door and hopped onto the back of her startled mount.&nbsp; By the time she got him headed for the stable doors, however, a line of men waited for her.&nbsp; She wouldn't let them just take her, so she yelled and kicked the horse forward, charging their line.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>09-02-2006, 23:04:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her reaction was both suprising and confusing, for she surely recognised him. He quickly ducked out of the door and towards his horse as she fled towards the stables, pursued by most of the men who had been in the common room. Upon futher thought, he recognised some of the men from the battle he had been so fortuneate to escape, and they most assuredely recognised him. He quickly untied his horse and steered it towards the Stable. He drew his sword, bringing the blade up to his mouth and kissed it, then watched as the events unfolded. He was sure that the men would be able to pull her from the horse if he did nothing, so as she turned to charge her horse at them, he let out a blood curdling cry and charged them from behind, sword raised in the air ready to strike any down. He rode to the right of where she would hit the line, hoping to cause enough confusion and fear for a hole to form allowing her to flee, and allowing him to turn before penetrating the line of men.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>10-02-2006, 15:52:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				These men were well-trained, and their actions gave evidence of their ability to work as a unit.&nbsp; Two of them broke away to deal with Connor, their faces darkened with anger that he would attempt to impede their purpose.&nbsp; Shiane reined her horse toward the break in the line, falling into the trap so easily set.&nbsp; She was desperate, wanting to get as far from these murderers as possible.&nbsp; As she neared, the others closed in, one of them brandishing a large axe.&nbsp; A flash of steel was followed by a piercing scream as the legs of her mount were cut out from under him.&nbsp; Her own wail was pitiful as she went down with the beast in a tangle of blood and legs and clothing.&nbsp; A sharp short pain in her leg signaled damage that was too great to bear, and Shiane sank into the oblivion of unconsciousness.<br><br>The horse rolled and kicked, two of his legs completely useless after the devastating strike of the axe.&nbsp; One man moved in to finish the beast while the other moved to drag the girl free.&nbsp; As her body was pulled, the broken leg was easily seen, as well as several other injuries to arm and shoulder and even head.&nbsp; She would not rise for some time, so the men joined their cohorts, intending to finish Connor once and for all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>10-02-2006, 17:19:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor was a Knight-at-Arms, and despite lacking his full arsenal of weapons, like a lance, he was still not some one to be taken lightly. And his horse was a trained war horse - something that Shianes was not. He blocked the blow of the first man who tried to engage him, while his horse landed a hoof square in the chest of the other man, cracking ribs and bones and sending the man flying through the air. No dount the internal injuries would claim him, or at least keep him out of the fight. Connor held the advantage over the other man, who was no match for him. A few powerful down strokes and he felt his sword bite through the mans unprotected skull, sending brain matter and bone scattering through the air. <br><br>Connor wheeled his horse around only to see Shiane, unconcious, being dragged off to the side. Connor began to realise he now faced perhaps six men, despite having dispatched two already. Not knowing their skill could prove costly, and if only one could hold their own with Connor, Connor was sure to tire and loose his life. Cursing, he drew a throwing dagger from his belt and tossed it at the nearest man, catching him by suprise and in the throat. He twirled his sword in his hand,&nbsp; his horse snorting at the sound of blood and the death of the other horse, and he ushered a challenge to those who stood before him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>10-02-2006, 18:58:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Worrying no longer for the unconscious and bleeding woman who lay at their feet, the men moved to surround Connor and his horse.&nbsp; The one with the axe appeared to be the leader, and he stepped forward, his gruff voice carrying easily over the yard-turned-battleground.<br><br>"Leave us the girl and we shall leave you to your own fate; if you pursue this course of action, she shall die at my own hand before your very eyes."&nbsp; His threat was not one that would be taken lightly.&nbsp; It was obvious that Shiane's enemies were wanting her entire family dead, so there was no reason to think that these men wouldn't kill her.&nbsp; The reason they hadn't already done so was likely a bit more sadistic than anything else.&nbsp; She was a pretty girl, ripe and newly a woman, perfect for the pleasures these men likely enjoyed.&nbsp; But they could easily find a farm girl to take her place.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>10-02-2006, 22:39:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was faced with a dilemma. They were likely to kill her either way - but would perhaps delay to violate her. He would not be able to live with himself if he was to let such a thing happen. So why not die trying to fight for her? It would be a worthy death, he imagined, and probably painful. He shook his head. "I leave with her or i do not leave at all. I am tasked with providing her with protection." He charged at them towards the direction she lay, knowing his war horse would strike down those that gone in his way. He also prepared himself to leap from the horse should it fall, and like always, was ready to deflect any on coming blows with his sword or shield.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>13-02-2006, 05:50:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The struggle went on for some time, and as blows were traded, it seemed as if Connor would be easily overpowered.&nbsp; His horse, a well-trained beast was serving well as a companion, for it protected his back as he began to work his way toward Shiane.&nbsp; Still, the men who fought him were vicious and having greater numbers.<br><br>Help came from an unexpected source as one of the gruff men was felled by a well-thrown stone to the head.&nbsp; The innkeeper appeared to have quite the arm as he hefted yet another large rock in his palm, preparing to brain another of the group of men.&nbsp; Surprise had been created, and for a moment, the attention of the men was on their former host.&nbsp; And a bit of a pathway had been opened up to Shiane.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>18-02-2006, 00:01:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He urged his horse forward, not bothering to look at where the distraction came from, knowing full well it wouldnt last long and that he had only had a few seconds to get to her. He sheathed his sword as he steered his horse with his knees, leaning over in the saddle to reach down to the ground, grabbing her below her shoulders, and heaving her with great strenght up onto his lap, unable to do anything for her leg at the present time. He spurred his horse on, feeling her pain with every step it took, glad she was unconcious as the pain would be unbearable. When he was sure he was safe from pursuit, he would stop and see to her leg. But that was still a few moments from now as he had yet to clear the small village.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>21-02-2006, 00:10:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mercy it was indeed that she remained unconscious as Connor swept her up and rode off at full speed with her draped over the front of his saddle like a sack of meal.&nbsp; The damage to her leg would worsen but not so much that it couldn't be remedied.&nbsp; Those who still wished to take up the pursuit were quick to get their mounts, hoping that their number would not be slowed greatly by the mud from last night's rains.<br><br>The foothills of the mountain range loomed up, casting shadows over the path of the fleeing twosome.&nbsp; Water streamed down from the heights, turning the ground into a bog in some places.&nbsp; There were caves and gullies in the mountains, places to hide and weather the storms.&nbsp; Already, dark clouds had gathered, promising more of the chill rain.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>21-02-2006, 03:07:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Knowing that the longer he rode, the worse shape she would be in, betweent her leg and the weather, he also knew enough to know his pursuers would lose him quickly in such weather - something to his advantage. He quickly steered his horse towards the uphill, making it look like he was going to make a break for it towards the pass where he would better be able to defend himself and her against so many attackers. In truth, he quickly turned from sight should they have been fast enough to be only a few moments behind. The rain and mud would quickly wash away any tracks, and he quickly dismounted, leaving her on the horse. He hid behind a rock and waited for them to pass before returning to her, and quickly made his way far from the path least they be discovered. The weather was worsening and he quickly found a dry cave that went back about 60 feet before ending in a rock-face. The opening was large enough for the horse to fit in, and he quickly led all inside.<br><br>He strode back out, rain streaming from his waterproof clothing, and quickly cut some of the drier, inner branches of a nearby pine tree and brought them into the cave, setting them in such a manner as to make a bed for her. He gently lay her down and then looked at her leg. A nasty break, but mendable. He hurried back outside and found two equal lengths of strong wood. Resetting the break, he placed each piece of wood on either side and wrapped it with a spare tunic he had whoch he tore into strips. He knew a little about healing, and knew the leg would heal. Feeling the chill creep up his neck, he hurried outside for the last time, in search of fire wood.<br><br>It took him some time, but he soon found enough wood to get a fire going, starting it in the rear of the cave near where she lay so it woulndt be seen from outside. He kept his sword close by and looked down at her. He would have to get her out of her wet clothes least she catch an illness. He carefully began to undress her, being especially careful around her broken leg, and soon had her naked, her clothes laying near the fire to dry. He had laid his blanket on the pine bed to make her more comfortable, and covered her with his other, least she awake suddenly and find herself naked. His own clothes were soaked, and he began to undress, to allow his clothes to dry by the fire, leaving him wearing only his sudden undergarments. He watched her as she half-slept, half lay unconcious, pain filling his eyes and heart at seeing his love in such a manner.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>23-02-2006, 23:20:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laying there, nude except for the blanket, Shiane looked much more delicate than she tended to be.&nbsp; Her brow furrowed with pain brought on by the condition of her leg, and it seemed to have entered her dreams for she cried out softly.&nbsp; Her face would pale as some dreamed horror accosted her, and every movement brought a groan or whimper.&nbsp; As if in response to the inner turmoil of her mind, the storm outside grew fiercely, whistling around the two as they hid in the mountains.&nbsp; Their pursuers had been driven back by the ferocity of the wind and rain, and their tracks were lost in the mud.<br><br>It wasn't until early the following morning that Shiane finally relaxed, true sleep claiming her and forcing her to rest.&nbsp; Sweat had dampened her brow and her fevered movements had caused her hair to come loose, sprawling around her like a dark halo.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>24-02-2006, 23:29:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her condition didnt go unnoticed, and he dabbed at her brow with a wet cloth. His clothes were not yet dry, but the fire was keeping his half naked body warm. He did not know much about medicines, but thought that if he could find a specific plant, he could brew her a tea - water in such weather was easy to come by - that would fight back the fever. It pained him to see her so. Grabbing his waterproof cloak, he wrapped it around his half naked body and darted into the fury of the storm. He was buffeted by the wind and the rain, though the terrain and trees broke its strength some what before it hit him. He kept low to the ground as he searched, and a half hour later he found what he was looking for.<br><br>He returned, shaking the water from him as best he could, and filled up his metal cup with water from the storm. He mashed up the plant as best he could then placed it to soak in the water, which he set on the fire to make it boil. As he waited for the tea to become ready, he returned to dab her forehead with a cool wet rag, and briefly lifted up the blanket to see if she had any other wounds that had gone unnoticed, though it was hard as her body was very distracting. It would be improper for him to keep looking with her in such a state, so after quickly checking, he layed the blanket back down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>13-03-2006, 19:40:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was the dripping of water that awakened her, the steady fall of water in the back of the small cave where Connor had taken shelter.&nbsp; Her brow furrowed for a moment before her eyes opened slowly, and it was then that she remembered what had happened.&nbsp; With a gasp of alarm, she sat upright, her eyes darting wildly about, seeking out the men who had been trying to harm her.&nbsp; Movement sent a tremor of pain into her leg, and she moaned softly.&nbsp; Lifting the blanket, Shiane realized that she was quite nude, and her eyes moved quickly to the form of the only other person present.<br><br>"Where... where are my clothes?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>14-03-2006, 18:01:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He pointed to where her clothes lay near the fire, drying. He was half naked himself, waiting for his own clothes to dry. He turned his attention away from her and to the tin cup on the fire, in which the healing tea was brewing. He drew back his hand - the tin was hot - so used his still damp shirt to protect his hand as he picked the cup up off the fire and placed it on a stone nearby. "Drink this when it cools enough for you to hold. It'll ease the pain and help break the fever. We are safe for now, M'lady." He kept his distance from her - her initial reaction to him at the Inn had come as much a shock to him as his appearance had been to her. It did not help that he had secretly fallen in love with her over the years, and the manner in which she had treated him didnt suggest that she felt the same way about him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>15-03-2006, 19:49:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shiane eyed her clothing, clutched at the blanket that hid her slim body, and watched this man who had helped her closely.&nbsp; She was still at a loss as to whether he could be trusted or not; too many things had happened, and she'd been on the run much too long to simply accept him as her savior.&nbsp; What if he intended to ransom her life in order to keep his own?&nbsp; The death of the last of her father's offspring would be a very valuable thing indeed.<br><br>"Where are we?&nbsp; What has happened?&nbsp; How is it that you lived?"&nbsp; Her voice was in that middle ground, somewhere between accusing and panicked.&nbsp; Her nerves would be able to withstand little more of this sort of life; Shiane was not bred to running from men who wanted to kill her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>17-03-2006, 14:47:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He sat down near the fire, making sure to sit on a rock to keep himself clean as he waited for his clothes to dry. The light of the fire played across his body, a few scars, a few more recent wounds, and muscle mass. He did have an attractive body - soldiering seemed to do that to many men. He poked the fire with a stick, sending a few glowing embers into the air, but breathing life back into the fire. <br><br>"We're in the Mountains...north of your lands i think. I lost our pursuers in the storm and managed to find this place of refuge. Not the most comfy of places, but the only place we can stay safely while you heal up. The heavy rain is wiping tracks clear, and its too fierce for anyone to wandering around outside. At least its not too cold out. You've also broken your leg - i set it as best i could." He paused again, adding a few branches to the fire to keep the warmth and heat going. "I was rather lucky to survive, actually. I was inside fighting when they set the house on fire. I managed to get to a cellar - my only option apart from burning alive, and a timber blocked my entrance. There was an airway down there - some tunnel perhaps that i could not find - so i waited out the fire before making my way up through the wreckage. The villages told me that you had fled and men were after you so i followed."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>21-03-2006, 19:43:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Listening to his words, Shiane sagged back upon the makeshift bed.&nbsp; Her leg was broken; that could keep them in this cave for much longer than was safe.&nbsp; The weather would not rage like this forever, and the hunt would start all over again.&nbsp; She knew that they would be found, and then they both would die because of her.<br><br>"When the weather clears, you should leave.&nbsp; Once they find me, they will be satisfied with my death.&nbsp; You are not a threat to them unless you continue to aid me.&nbsp; Save yourself."&nbsp; It was a gallant gesture, and Shiane was certain that she sounded quite pitiful and forlorn.&nbsp; She still could not remove the memory of her family from her mind, and their deaths were all to real to the young woman.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>02-04-2006, 21:42:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He shook his head. He couldnt do that. He couldnt leave her here to die, not after all he had gone through, let along the fact that he had secretly fallen in love with her. "I cant do that, M'lady. I swore to protect your family, and i have failed in that task. You yet live, so i am not free of my service - and i would not leave even if my term was up. You're stuck with me whether you like it or not, and i'm not going to let you die. This weather will last a while yet, and it gives you a chance to recover more before we start to move. I'm sure we can find a healer in one of the nearby villages - maybe further out, to make sure they arent looking for us. Do you have any idea who is after you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>03-04-2006, 18:53:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He wouldn't leave her.&nbsp; Elation filled her chest at his declaration, even though she was certain that they were both doomed.&nbsp; At least she'd given him an out, if he really wanted one.<br><br>"I do not know who those men were, or how they found me.&nbsp; Nor do I know who is responsible for the people who killed my family."&nbsp; Her words were choked off by a soft sob.&nbsp; Shiane took a moment to regain control, taking in a deep breath.&nbsp; "I was trying to leave the realm, to find one of my father's allies.&nbsp; If they can help me, then I will return to find out who the murderer is."<br><br>She shifted, wincing at another pain that shot through her leg.&nbsp; Suddenly she became very aware of another sensation, this one not at all strange but still completely disorienting.&nbsp; Shiane could barely sit up without pain; how was she to be able to tend to other insistent needs?<br><br>"I... I need to... is there a chamberpot to use?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>03-04-2006, 21:48:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor scratched his head, still squatting in his undergarments. He must have been an amusing site indeed. His sword-in-scabbard lay against the side of the cave near the fire, while the tethered horse remained near the mouth of the cave. He shook his head. "We are but in a cave, and i was in a hurry to be after you that i did not think to take many things other than those i found with the horse. I can help you to the back of the cave if you need to...um...go to the...latrine." He had spent most of his time with the other troops in her fathers employment, and had never really been around women very much - or at least to the point where he had to aid them with some very private things. He stood up, more to stretch his legs then anything, and touched his clothes, judging that they needed several more minutes near the fire before they would dry. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>04-04-2006, 18:43:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While she did not relish the idea of Connor seeing her in such a state, Shiane knew that she had little choice.&nbsp; If they were going to make it through this, she would have to learn to accept some inevitabilities.&nbsp; It was obvious that he'd already seen her without her clothing, that he'd tended her injuries.&nbsp; She would have to swallow her embarrassment and do what she had to do for normal bodily functions.<br><br>The blanket was pulled tightly around herself, tucked carefully in every effort to keep it from slipping down once she stood up.&nbsp; With a deep breath, she nodded.<br><br>"All right... I suppose I'm ready then."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>04-04-2006, 18:50:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods his head and moves over to her, realising that she wont be able to stand on her own accord. He stands behind her and bends down, sliding his arms under her armpits. His muscles bunch up as he straightens his back, lifting her to her feet. He moves one arm around her waist, the other moving one of her arms across his shoulders and holding it there. She would be able to lean into him as she hopped about. He motioned with a nod of his head to a spot towards the back of the cave, but not too far that she wouldnt be able to make it there. "If you're hungry i can cook some dried meat. I'm afraid i wont be able to make the fire anybigger if we want it to last out the storm since everything is thoroughly soaked by now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>05-04-2006, 20:18:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With Connor's aid, Shiane was able to make it to where she needed to be.&nbsp; One hand reached out to help brace herself against the wall of the cave, the other moving to hike up the blanket around her waist so that it would not become soiled.&nbsp; Her face flushed hotly as she relieved herself, and she couldn't manage to look up at him until she'd finished.<br><br>Once that ordeal was over and she thought she was sufficiently dry to move back to her bed, she found that her arms and legs were trembling from weakness.&nbsp; He spoke of food, and the simple idea had her stomach rumbling greedily.<br><br>"The meat will be fine.&nbsp; I should not have any trouble eating it since it seems my stomach thinks I've gone too long without."&nbsp; She only barely managed to lift her eyes to look into his face.&nbsp; Hopping close, she reached out to grip his arm, thankful for his strength.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>05-04-2006, 20:23:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grabbed her arm and waist once again. He could not deny the that he enjoyed being so close to her - or the feel of her under his hands - though if only it could be under better circumstances. "Eating too much too fast will upset your stomach. I too am hungry so i shall cook enough for both of us. Our clothes should be dry by then too." He says, aiding her back to the makeshift bed he had made for her close to the fire. Once she was settled, he moved over to the horse and removed a small package of salted meat. He fashioned a spit out of more branches, allowing for him to lay it over the fire without it falling in, and soon the aroma of cooking meat fills the air. "Do you think you'll be able to move once the storm lets up?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>06-04-2006, 19:39:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once settled again upon her bed, Shiane turned her attention to him.&nbsp; She watched him as he prepared their meal, noting the definition of his body, the lack of clothing giving her an easier access to viewing him.&nbsp; It made her feel strange, though she did understand the relations between men and women.&nbsp; Her mother had sat her down when the subject of marriage had first come up; while she'd not made it all that appealing to Shiane, the young woman knew that there was more to a relationship than being married off to the richest suitor.<br><br>His question drew her back to the present, and she felt her cheeks color.&nbsp; "I do not know.&nbsp; I hope that I will be able to move, so long as infection does not set in and the break heals well."&nbsp; She shifted, holding the edge of the blanket up over her breasts, trying to be modest.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>06-04-2006, 22:37:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods his head. "Yes - as lonjg as infection doesnt set in. This will be done in a few minutes i should imagine." He keeps his eyes focused on the meat and the fire, all too aware of how vulnerable she is. "I suggest moving the leg as little as possible. We'll need to get you to a healer soon though, for i am no healer and dont want the break healing wrongly." He poked the fire with a longer stick, his muscles rippling as he does so, eyes all the while focused on the task before him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>10-04-2006, 21:48:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then I will stay here and learn some patience, at least."&nbsp; He could not possibly miss the humor in that statement, the mingled regret and amusement at her own inability to care for herself.&nbsp; She felt the helpless woman, relying upon his care and goodwill.<br><br>"Forgive me for being such trouble; I did not intend for anyone to be caught up in this... not so soon."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>10-04-2006, 23:12:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He shook his head. "I would rather be caught up in this then burying your body with the rest of your family. I think we should both count ourselves lucky to have escaped with our lives. That much we should be thankful for." He pulled a piece of meat off the fire and bit into it, nodding his head. "We'll get going in the morning, after the storm lets up. The more rest you get the better. This is ready - i suggest only eating a small amount right now least you be sick." He offerered her a small portion of the meat. He was sorry not to be able to present it in a more...appropiate manner.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>17-04-2006, 15:25:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Accepting the bit of meat with careful fingers, Shiane nibbled gingerly on it, taking great care to chew small bites thoroughly before swallowing.&nbsp; Her stomach growled, demanding more, but she knew that to eat too quickly would indeed make her sick.&nbsp; She was so concentrated on the effort of not shoving it into her mouth that she was unaware of the movement of her blanket.<br><br>The cloth had slid free of her restraining arm, creeping down to bare more flesh than she would have desired revealing.&nbsp; Shadow hid her lean hip, but the swell of a bared breast was more than evident, each lift of her arm to bring hand to mouth, giving a glimpse at that supple flesh.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>17-04-2006, 19:03:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connor attempted to concerntrate on his piece of meat, his bites larger then Shianes as he was in no danger of being sick. The meal was much needed though, for he had had little oppurtunity to stop and eat over the past few days as he tried to catch up to her. He couldnt help but let his eyes wander across the fire, and to her bosom that was slowly being revealed as her blanket slid down, baring them. His eyes did not fill with lust at their sight, but more of longing. He harbored feelings for her that he had so far managed to keep secret from everyone. <br><br>He quickly finished off the meat and looked around for something to distract him least she catch him staring at her volumptous breasts. The clothes...he reached out and touched his clothes, seeing how dry they were. It seemed like they would never dry, but instead of being soaked they were now only slightly damp - much like her own which were also drying near the fire.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>19-04-2006, 19:37:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once she realized that her blanket had crept down, Shiane flushed and fumbled to cover herself up.&nbsp; This whole situation was becoming more and more awkward, and she wasn't certain how to handle it.&nbsp; Her knee had begun to ache and her body felt worn down from the little bit of time she'd been sitting up and eating.&nbsp; She felt horrid and helpless, and their situation seemed almost completely hopeless at this point.&nbsp; Despair was quickly getting the best of her, and she found that she had no more appetite.<br><br>With a sigh, she laid back down and stared up at the ceiling of the cave, trying not to let tears of frustration and exhaustion spill down her cheeks.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>20-04-2006, 14:04:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldnt help but noticed the sullen mood that suddenly came over her. He wasnt good in situations like these, being a fighting man he rarely had to deal with things of this nature. But who else was there to comfort her? He shuffled over to sit beside her, placing a hand on her bare shoulder which sent tingles up his own arm. "Shiane...are you gonna be ok?" He says. The clothes would be dry in another hour, he imagined, and then they'd both be able to dress, adding some extra warmth and modesty to the cave. His&nbsp; horse whinnied from near the entrance to the cave, its body blocking up most of the entrance. The rain continued to come down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>21-04-2006, 18:37:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His hand seemed to burn into her bare shoulder, searing her sensitive skin with its rough strength.&nbsp; No man had ever touched her so intimately, and she felt her breath catching in her throat.&nbsp; A flush colored her cheeks again; he would think her little more than a silly girl, infatuated and flirting.&nbsp; The tears of frustration were momentarily forgotten.&nbsp; Shiane turned her face toward him, those wide wet eyes looking into his gaze, perhaps testing his mettle, unconsciously pushing against those limits he'd set upon himself.<br><br>"I think I will be fine... but only because you have remained with me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>22-04-2006, 14:36:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods his head, his gaze not being able to withstand hers, returning it to look into the fire. He slowly moves his hand from her shoulder as he speaks. <br><br>"I was only fulfilling my duty i had sworn to your father. The villagers told me that you had fled, and since i seemed to be the only one who survived the attack, i saw no better reason then to give chase to you." He turned to look at her again. "You looked like you had seen a ghost when you first saw me - and that turned into a pretty sticky situation." He chuckled. "But at least we are safe for now. Our tracks will be impossible to find in this rain."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>SouthernBelle</strong> on <strong>26-04-2006, 19:05:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he spoke of duty and it being the only reason he had remained by her side, Shiane forced a smile and nodded.&nbsp; All silly imaginings of romance and heroes and fate were pushed to the side.&nbsp; Of course he was seeing to his duty; it was all he knew, right?&nbsp; He continued talking and she tried to remain focused on his words.&nbsp; Her eyes slid from him to her lap.<br><br>"Of course I was shocked.&nbsp; I had been told that no one survived.&nbsp; When I saw you, my first thought was that you were leading the ones who hunted me... that you had set the fire yourself."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Hunted Daughter -- Medieval/Fantasy</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MagicalPen</strong> on <strong>27-04-2006, 02:31:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stared at her in disbelief. She thought she was one of them? "No...i would never do anything such as that. I've grown to love yo..." he almost said 'you', "...your family. I had sworn to protect them and did until i got trapped by the fire. When i did manage to escpe, and found you had survived, i immediately went after you. I am sorry if it had appeared the other way." He repsonds.
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>